If Toyota missed on the options, it scored maximum points filling the Tundra with genuine Toyotaness. That means superlative reliability--our search for mechanical mayhem revealed nothing major--and excellent build quality. There's been only one recall, and it was minor (see chart). Interior quality received a few complaints, but there's no denying the Tundra's gentle ride and quiet cabin. The back seat on Access Cab versions is somewhat tight and upright. Budget permitting, spring for the V-8 (the V-6 is strained in such a big-boned truck). If you, like most truck buyers today, need an urban pickup--as opposed to a serious boat-pulling, anvil-hauling truck--there are few better choices than a pre-owned Tundra.
| Toyota Tundra |
| Body type | 2- and 4-door full-size pickup |
| Drivetrain | Front engine, 4wd or rwd |
| Airbag | Driver, pass |
| Base engine | 3.4L/190-hp, DOHC, V-6 |
| Opt engine | 4.7L/245-hp, DOHC, V-8 |
| Brakes, f/r | Disc/drum, opt ABS |
Price, wlsle/retail
(IntelliChoice) | $7380/$11,050(2000 Regular Cab V-6)
19,740/$26,940 (2003 Access Cab Limited V-8 4WD) |
| Recalls | Improperly molded taillight socket |
| NHTSA frontal-impact rating, driver/pass | Four stars/three stars |