2015 Toyota Tundra
New for 2015
Changes for the 2015 model year include a new TRD Pro off-road performance model, and the addition of some new optional features such as an integrated trailer brake and spray-in bedliner.
Ready to Work
The pickup truck is as American as apple pie and blue jeans, so what happens when a Japanese manufacturer like Toyota tries to build one that can measure up with the best of the Big Three?
The 2015 Toyota Tundra may have an import badge, but it’s made in Texas and has the same attitude as everything else in that truck-loving state. From the big and bold exterior to the powerful V8 engines available, the Tundra is one tough truck.
Powertrains and Performance
Toyota is emphasizing muscular performance with the 2015 Tundra, which is offered with an all-V8 engine lineup.
The standard engine is a 4.6-liter i-Force V8 that produces 310 horsepower and 327 pound-feet of torque, providing towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds. Both Tundra engines include variable valve timing for improved fuel efficiency and are offered with a six-speed automatic transmission with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
With rear-wheel drive, the 4.6-liter V8 manages EPA-rated gas mileage of 16 mpg combined (15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway),* and loses 1 mpg in the city and highway categories with four-wheel drive.
There’s also an optional 5.7-liter i-Force V8, which produces a strong 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. That allows for a towing capacity of up to 10,500 pounds depending on configuration, and EPA-rated fuel economy of 15 mpg combined (13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway),* and sacrifices 1 mpg in the highway category with four-wheel drive.
Features and Trims
The 2015 Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck available in three cab configurations with seating for up to six, and two bed lengths. That includes a two-door Regular Cab, Double Cab with rear-hinged half doors, and a Crew Max with four full-size doors. Adding even more choice are the six available trim levels, with prices starting at $29,120.**
The base Tundra model is the SR, which comes standard with features like 18-inch steel wheels, rearview camera, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, tire-pressure monitoring, and trailer-sway control.
Each successive model builds on the one that came before, so in addition to the applicable standard features from the SR, the Tundra SR5 includes fog lights, a storage compartment under the rear seat, front map light, and other equipment.
The next model in the hierarchy is the Tundra Limited, which adds a standard Entune infotainment system with navigation and app suite, leather interior, 10-way power driver’s seat, a tilt/telescope four-spoke steering wheel with redundant controls, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Building on the Limited is the Tundra Platinum, which adds to the growing list of standard equipment with LED daytime running lights, chrome heated and auto-dimming power outside mirrors, a power moonroof, Premium JBL audio system, perforated leather heated and ventilated front seats, and other features.
The top Tundra model in terms of luxury features is the 1794 Edition, named after the year the ranch where Toyota’s Texas truck plant is located was founded. In addition to all of the convenience features from the other models, it gets unique exterior trim with lots of chrome, and a premium leather interior with woodgrain accents.
New for 2015 is the TRD Pro, which focuses on off-road performance. Inspired by decades of Toyota Racing Development (TRD) off-road racing, it gets some serious hardware in the form of Bilstein remote-reservoir shock absorbers, a front skid plate, and chunky off-road tires. When it’s not covered in mud, the TRD Pro is distinguished by a unique blacked-out grille and wheels.
Exterior/Interior
The Tundra’s exterior styling is big and bold, something most truck buyers expect, but is still quite a change from Toyota’s typically staid designs. Back when this generation was first introduced as a concept vehicle, Toyota said the styling was inspired by a punching fist. That sounds about right; the giant grille makes you want to duck just looking at it.
While the exterior is muscular and aggressive, the interior is comfortable and functional. The standard 6.1-inch touchscreen display gets rid of a lot of buttons, and in top 1794 Edition trim, this truck is downright luxurious.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Toyota Tundra includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls—bundled as part of Toyota’s Star Safety System—as well as front, knee, and side-curtain airbags. The standard backup camera, trailer-sway control and (on 5.7-liter models) integrated trailer brake also make towing safer.
Bottom Line
Whether it’s playing the role of Spartan work vehicle, luxury cruiser, or off-road racer, the 2015 Toyota Tundra performs admirably.
To learn more about the 2015 Toyota Tundra, or to schedule a test drive, contact us at Seeger Toyota.
*2015 EPA-estimated city/highway mileage. Actual mileage will vary.
**Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee of $825 for Cars, $885 for Small/Light Trucks (Sienna, RAV4, Highlander Gas, Highlander HV, 4Runner, Tacoma and Venza), $1100 for Large Trucks (Tundra), and $925 for Large SUVs (Sequoia and Land Cruiser). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota's charge for these services is called the "Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee" and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota's overall pricing structure. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee.) Excludes taxes, license, title and available or regionally required equipment. The Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC and TX will be higher. Actual dealer price will vary.
Image: Toyota