Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/335762
Anyone that's spent seat time behind the wheel of Toyota's Tun- dra knows it's a good work truck capable of handling any task that comes its way. It's a well-built, spa- cious and powerful 1/2-ton. The 2014s are no different. Yes, Toyota imparted a few some minor body design changes to the hood and grille, and small tuning changes to the suspension, but in totality it's the same as a 2013. What's different is the Platinum high-end trim level Toyota added to compete against the Big Three's premium offerings. When it's ap- plied to a 2014 Crew Max you get Lexus-like luxury that makes the rolling office a plush, comfortable workspace. The Platinum Crew Max is right at home taking clients to a classy restaurant with its richly appointed leather interior, a plethora of crea- ture comforts, power everything, and a high-end audio system that can rattle the windows. Add nearly 8 inches more space between the front and rear seat than the standard Double Cab model and you have an excellent people mover – or that extra cab space to haul more stuff to the job. The benefits of the longer cab spill over into payload, too: The Crew Max 4x4 can haul 100 pounds more the Double Cab (7,100 vs. 7,200 pounds) even though the bed is only 5 feet 6 inches long. The trade-off for the longer cab is reduced towing capacity. Although most 1/2-ton owners never pull big trailers, the Crew Max 4x4 is at a slight disadvantage compared to its stablemates with a max towing capacity limited to towing 9,000 pounds where as the Double Cab can pull 9,800 pounds. (Note: All Tundras require the use of a weight-distributing hitch on trailered weights exceeding 5,000 pounds.) pro pickup | continued July 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com 62 One area the Tundra 4x4 is capable is operating in the off-road environment where its traction control system works very efficiently. Toyota's TRD Pro option isn't just about driving fast. The upgraded suspension and other modifications in the package are designed to improved ride and dura- bility in the rugged off-road/off-pavement work environment. O ne option buyers of a 2015 Tundra should consider if they are going to use the truck a lot off-pavement is the TRD Pro package. I equate the TRD Pro option to Ford's SVT Raptor and GM's Z71 4x4 off-road packages, with special wheels, skid plates and suspension upgrades for more aggressive off-pavement/off-road use. The difference is the Toyota Racing Division (TRD) went more toward Ford SVT's route by lifting the front two inches with Eibach coils and then adding remote-reservoirs Bilstein shocks at all four corners, along with custom black wheels and a cat-back exhaust system. (Toyota doesn't offer a locking rear differential, which is the only bummer.) Inside the package has special seats and trim, and outside the bed is embossed with the "TRD Pro" logo. Underneath the truck is a thick, one-piece aluminum skid plate that extends from front bumper back to the end of the transfercase for added protection from ground impacts. These types of upgrades will reduce downtime and repair expenses in the long run. The TRD Pro package will also take some wear and tear off the occupants. At test time, Toyota had not set a price for the TRD Pro option. But after driving a TRD Pro 4x4 Tundra in the desert, I can say it'll be worth it.