Big car for a big country
Toyota’s big American-style pick-up the Tundra was recently cleared for take-off Down Under after a gruelling development program.
Toyota Australia launched the Tundra in November, following final approval of the local re-engineering project by its Japanese parent. The Tundra, like its rivals the RAM and Chevrolet Silverado, has been re-engineered from left to right-hand drive by Melbourne-based Walkinshaw Automotive, which has established itself as the leading player in the booming conversion segment.
It’s the first time Toyota has worked with a third-party organisation anywhere in the world, and the Tundra had to undergo a six-year development process to meet the company’s quality and durability standards. The program included 300 Tundra prototypes being leased to Toyota customers for real-world evaluation.
The big ute is based on the same platform as the LandCruiser 300 Series but is powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 sending a muscular 326kW/790Nm through a 10-speed automatic transmission. Part-time 4WD via a dual-range transfer case is standard, and the Tundra’s braked towing capacity is a mighty 4.5 tonnes.
A Limited variant has been launched first, with a more upmarket variant expected to follow in early 2025. The Tundra has hit dealerships and showrooms with a price tag from $155,990, plus on-road costs.
For more, visit the Toyota website.