While the industry is still abuzz with the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra news, another piece of the puzzle comes into view. It has to do with the availability of the TRD Pro version of the new Tundra. The Tundra TRD Pro is a delayed spring 2022 introduction, and here is why.
We initially reported that the new 2022 Tundra is expected to go on sale in late 2021. It is still the case for the new 2022 Tundra trucks that are equipped with the standard i-FORCE 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (that offers 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque). This new standard power plant will be available in a variety of new Tundra trim levels and cab/bed configurations.
The delayed introduction has to do with the new hybrid powertrain. Toyota calls it i-FORCE MAX. It’s a combination of the same 3.5L twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor and a 1.87 kWh battery. This power combination is rated at 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque @ 2,400 rpm. The i-FORCE MAX powertrain will be available for sale in spring 2022, according to Toyota.
Why is the TRD Pro delayed? The new 2022 TRD Pro off-road trim will only be available with the more powerful hybrid powertrain, as such the TRD Pro is a delayed introduction. Toyota is positioning the new TRD Pro as a premium truck with high-speed off-road capability. TRD Pro models are based on the Tundra Limited trim level as far as their optional packages are concerned. This means that the new Tundra is not just Toyota’s most off-road capable full-size truck, but will also be very well equipped.
Toyota has not announced pricing or fuel-efficiency estimates at this time.
