The 2023 Toyota Tundra is an impressive, luxurious full-size pickup with many positive attributes. Still, it’s not perfect, but its negatives may not be enough to dissuade you from buying it. Here are three reasons why the 2023 Toyota Tundra is a good truck to buy and two reasons why you might want to skip it and consider buying something else.
Shop the 2023 Toyota Tundra for the standard engines
The first reason to buy a 2023 Toyota Tundra is the standard turbocharged V6 engine. It’s good for 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It is the standard engine for the first five versions, including the SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum and 1794 editions. edmunds He says the standard engine is capable of delivering smooth power and that it provides a comfortable ride.
However, there is also a hybrid engine alternative that increases power even more. Car and Driver says it features an electric motor paired with the engine for a combined 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet. It comes standard on the top of the Tundra lineup.
The best fit is affordable
Next, one reason to buy the 2023 Toyota Tundra is that the best version is affordable. The full-size pickup lineup has seven trim levels ranging from $38,760 to $77,040. In its highest form, the Toyota pickup is expensive and luxurious. However, experts believe that the best fit is one of the most affordable options. For example, Edmunds recommends the Limited version, which starts at $50,360. “Not only do you get a larger infotainment touchscreen and a smoother ride with hydraulic cab mounts, but you’re also eligible for the more powerful hybrid powertrain,” he said.
On the other hand, car and driver I recommend buying the even cheaper SR5 trim. It starts at $44,265 and offers many standard features. C/D also says the TRD Off-Road Package is worth adding for an electronic locking rear differential, unique wheels, an upgraded suspension, and more. Standard SR5 features include LED headlights, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, proximity keyless entry/start, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, LED fog lights, the Tow Package and more.
Shop the Tundra for hybrid power and fuel economy
In addition to many other great attributes, the 2023 Toyota Tundra has a hybrid powertrain. Available for lower models like the SR5, the Tundra’s hybrid power and fuel economy are more affordable than its rivals. According to C/D, it is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Combining that with the increased power from the hybrid powertrain makes the Tundra Hybrid worth paying for. An SR5 hybrid model is the most affordable version, starting at $47,265.
For a few thousand dollars more, we think the extra horsepower and torque is worth it. Plus, Tundra tops out at 12,000 pounds of towing capacity, gained when equipped with the more powerful powertrain and towing package.
Skip the Tundra because of its towing capacity and payload
Next, the first reason to skip the 2023 Toyota Tundra is its payload and towing capacity. While it’s sufficient for most truck drivers, it falls short of the competition. For example, the Ford F-150 can tow 14,000 pounds to the Tundra’s 12,000. Plus, the most popular Ford can haul a payload of up to 3,250 pounds, surpassing the Toyota pickup’s 1,940-pound maximum. Full-size truck buyers looking for the best possible capable and functional vehicle for towing and hauling should look elsewhere.
No fancy tailgate option like its rivals
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Lastly, skip the 2023 Toyota Tundra because it doesn’t offer a multifunction liftgate. Almost every full-size truck competitor now has a fancy tailgate of some kind. A rear door that folds into a step, extends the bed, provides a standing desk, opens to the side, and more is quite common now. Rivals from Ford, Ram, Chevrolet and GMC offer some variation. However, the latest 2023 Tundra still doesn’t have a standard or optional multi-function tailgate.
Reasons to Buy and Skip the 2023 Toyota Tundra
Bottom line, there are three reasons to buy and two reasons to skip the 2023 Toyota Tundra. As a full-size truck in the lineup, it’s nice to have more than one great standard engine in the entire lineup. That includes a hybrid variant with better fuel economy and improved performance. Plus, the SR5 and Limited models are some of the best options around, and they’re also more affordable than other members of the lineup. However, consider skipping the Tundra because it has low towing/payload capacities compared to its rivals and doesn’t offer a multifunction tailgate.