2020 Toyota Tundra Pros vs Cons

Those who regularly haul or tow gear will always need a pickup. The full-size pickup market is very competitive. One option that should not be missed is the 2020 Toyota Tundra. Although this truck certainly has a lot going for it, some people may say that its age is beginning to show. So, do the advantages of this truck outweigh the disadvantages? How does it look in comparison to the competition?

What's New for 2020?

The Tundra entered its second generation way back in 2007. Despite not giving the vehicle a full refresh, changes are made every year to keep it competitive. In 2020, the Tundra has an upgraded infotainment system that gives drivers smartphone integration through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The TRD Pro trim level is now available with either a CrewMax or Double cab. This year, the previously standard 4.6L V8 has been eliminated, bringing the powertrain options down to one. The TRD Pro gets a minor change in its paint options. Last year's Voodoo Blue is being replaced by Army Green.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2020 Toyota Tundra – The Pros

1. Powerful Standard V8 Engine

Although there is only one engine available for the 2020 Toyota Tundra, drivers will not be disappointed. Standard on all models is a 5.7L V8 that generates 381-horsepower as well as 401 lb-ft of torque. This makes the Tundra exhilarating to drive and gives it the ability to haul large loads. Paired with this engine is a six-speed manual transmission.

2. Roomy and Comfortable Back Seat

Whether drivers chose a crew or double cab, they will find an amazingly large rear seat. Even the tallest of adults will feel at home in the rear seat of the 2020 Toyota Tundra, especially the CrewMax models, which includes a reclining feature. These models also feature a sliding feature for the rear seat, making life even easier. This is an available option for double cabs.

3. Long List of Standard Safety Features

Despite being considered a bit "old" compared to some trucks, the 2020 Toyota Tundra has an impressive list of standard advanced safety features. All models feature a pre-collision system featuring pedestrian detection. They also give you automatic high beams, a lane keep assist system, and dynamic radar cruise control. A radar mounted inside of the grille works with a camera to detect vehicles in its path and adjust its speed accordingly.

4. Great Off-Road Models

Off-road enthusiasts will want to check out the TRD trims of the new Tundra. There are two options here, the Sport and the Off-Road. Those looking to leave the beaten path will obviously want the Off-Road, which gives the Tundra a skid plate, Blistein shocks, and aluminum 18" wheels featuring all-terrain tires. These models have a stylish dual black chrome-tipped exhaust system. The TRD Off-Road package is available on the SR5, Limited, and 1794 models.

5. High Towing Capacity

Consumers looking into a new truck often are very interested in how much they can tow. The 2020 Toyota Tundra can tow up to 10,100 pounds when properly equipped. Part of the reason it is so capable is the heavy-duty material used in the frame. It also has outboard-mounted shocks to help everything move along smoothly.

6. Available 1794 Edition

In a world where all vehicles start to look alike, many consumers will be drawn to the uniqueness of the 1794 Edition of the 2020 Toyota Tundra. This trim is very similar to the Platinum one. As a result, it has heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a sunroof and upgraded stereo system. What sets the 1794 Edition apart from the Platinum are design details. The seats are trimmed with a special perforated leather. There are also plenty of wood interior accents, helping add to the Western look that Toyota is going for. Also standard on the Platinum, and therefore the 1794 Edition, are LED accent and daytime running lights as well as blind spot monitoring featuring rear cross traffic alert. Drivers also get handy parking sensors.

7. Able to Haul a Variety of Gear

Trucks are obviously expected to haul a lot in their beds, but the Tundra also has features inside the cabin to make life easier. Models that have the available front bucket seats get a wide, deep center console. It features a 12V auxiliary power outlet to help keep gear charged. The rear seats fold up, rather than flat. This gives drivers more space and can also make it easier to get their gear in.

8. Remote Connect Available

Those who like the latest in technology will appreciate the one-year trial of Remote Connect services they get with the 2020 Toyota Tundra. These services work with a phone or other smart device. Drivers can learn more about vehicle maintenance. They can also start the engine, stop the engine, and lock or unlock their truck. More advanced features are included as well, such as vehicle finder and vehicle status alert. The latter can tell drivers how much gas they have and whether or not they left their windows down remotely. There is also a guest driver feature that will give the primary driver information on how the Tundra is being driven when they are not behind the wheel.

9. Available Destination Assist

One unique thing offered by Toyota is called Destination Assist. Tundra models equipped with this give drivers access to a live agent 24/7. Models with this also have navigation, allowing the agent to send directions directly to the Tundra's infotainment system. This is a useful feature for those who travel a lot and would like help finding restaurants, hotels, and other places of interest in an unfamiliar area.

10. Impressive Reliability

Spending a lot of money on any vehicle can be nerve-wracking for drivers. As a result, consumers will be happy to know that the J.D. Power 2019 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study named the Toyota Tundra the most reliable full-size pickup truck. This study looked at the number of problems reported for each type of truck in a three year period. Tundra owners reported fewer issues than those with a Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Super-Duty, and others. This helps the Tundra not only reassure drivers but also maintain its value as the years go on.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2020 Toyota Tundra – The Cons

1. Transmission Only Has Six Gears

Although the engine is powerful for the 2020 Toyota Tundra, it is not as fun to drive as it could be as a result of the six-speed automatic transmission. An engine and vehicle of that size could definitely benefit from the addition of a few extra gears in the years to come.

2. Fuel Economy is Lagging Behind Some Competitors

People buying full-size pickup trucks typically understand that they will be spending a pretty penny on gas. That said, the 2020 Toyota Tundra offers pretty dismal numbers. Depending on the model, drivers are looking at either 14 or 15 combined MPG from this vehicle. Thankfully, upgrading to the 4WD models does not further reduce these numbers.

3. Ride Feels a Bit Stiff

The Toyota Tundra has a firm suspension. Although there are some benefits to this, it also means that drivers will feel every bump they go over. Going with either the TRD Pro trim or a model equipped with the TRD Off-Road package does help, thanks to their upgraded shocks.

4. Interior Design Feels Outdated

Although improvements have been made to the infotainment system for 2020, it is still obvious that the Toyota Tundra is ready for an update. This is especially evident in the cabin, with its sub-par materials and somewhat inconvenient layout. Whether or not this is a deal-breaker is going to depend on the personal preferences of the consumer.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

There will always be several options in the full-size pickup market. Many consumers will consider both the Ford F-250 Super Duty and the RAM 2500. These are both good options but lack many of the standard features offered by the Tundra. Lane departure warning is standard on the Tundra, for example, and not even an available option for the other two. The Tundra also has numerous towing features standard that are either optional or unavailable on the F-250 and the RAM 2500. These include trailer assist and trailer brake control. Inside, the Tundra gives drivers more speakers and standard satellite radio. The other two have only six speakers and the option of adding SiriusXM. Additionally, all models of the Tundra include smartphone integration features, which is not the case with those competitors. The Toyota Tundra has a long list of standard equipment, making it a smart choice.

Conclusion

Any consumer in the market for a new full-size pickup will likely be impressed by the 2020 Toyota Tundra. It has a great standard engine, impressive standard towing, and many tech and safety features. Although there are a few drawbacks, that will be the case with any truck. The list of negatives for the Tundra is short and full of minor issues. Consumers should feel good about buying the new Tundra.