Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×4 ECT-i

The Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×4 ECT-i represents the third generation of Toyota’s full-size pickup truck, a formidable contender in the highly competitive North American market. Launched in September 2021, this iteration of the Tundra was engineered from the ground up to offer a significant leap forward in power, capability, efficiency, and technological sophistication. Positioned as a direct rival to established domestic heavyweights, the Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed variant caters to buyers demanding robust utility combined with enhanced passenger comfort and a spacious cargo bed. This specific configuration, featuring the potent 3.5-liter V6 i-FORCE twin-turbo engine and an advanced 4×4 drivetrain, underscores Toyota’s commitment to delivering a truck that can tackle demanding work requirements while providing a refined driving experience, setting a new benchmark for the model’s presence in the segment.

Powertrain and Performance of the Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×4 ECT-i

At the heart of the Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×4 ECT-i lies a sophisticated and powerful V35A-FTS engine, a 3.5-liter (3445 cm³ or 210.23 cu. in.) V6 unit designed for optimal performance and efficiency. This internal combustion engine features a V-engine configuration with six cylinders, each equipped with four valves, totaling 24 valves for the engine. Its advanced design incorporates a twin-turbocharger system with an intercooler, ensuring a consistent supply of dense air for combustion across the rev range. The fuel injection system is a sophisticated blend of direct injection and multi-port manifold injection, allowing for precise fuel delivery that maximizes both power output and fuel economy. Further enhancing its performance and efficiency is the DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), which continuously adjusts valve timing for improved responsiveness and reduced emissions.

The i-FORCE engine generates an impressive 389 horsepower at 5200 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 112.9 Hp/l, showcasing its high-performance design. Equally critical for a pickup truck is torque, and the Tundra delivers a substantial 478.68 lb.-ft. (649 Nm) available at a relatively low 2400 rpm. This broad torque band is crucial for towing, hauling, and off-road excursions, providing strong pulling power right where it’s needed. The engine operates with a compression ratio of 10.4:1 and is designed to run on gasoline, meeting the stringent LEV-III emission standard. The engine oil capacity is 7.3 liters (7.71 US qt), while the cooling system requires 12.4 liters (13.1 US qt) of coolant. A particulate filter is also integrated into the engine system, contributing to its cleaner emission profile.

Power is seamlessly transferred to the wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, designated as ECT-i, which is engineered for smooth shifts and optimized gearing for various driving conditions. The drivetrain architecture is a robust all-wheel-drive (4×4) system, where the internal combustion engine primarily drives the rear wheels. The front wheels can be engaged as needed through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch, providing enhanced traction and capability in challenging terrains or adverse weather conditions. This flexible system allows the driver to switch between two-wheel drive for efficiency and four-wheel drive for maximum grip.

Despite its substantial power and capability, the Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed aims for competitive fuel economy within its class. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 19 US mpg (12.4 l/100 km). In urban driving, it achieves 17 US mpg (13.8 l/100 km), while on the extra-urban cycle, it improves to 23.1 US mpg (10.2 l/100 km). These figures represent a significant improvement over previous generations, reflecting the advanced engineering of the i-FORCE powertrain. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio stands at 6.5 kg/Hp (154.1 Hp/tonne), and its weight-to-torque ratio is 3.9 kg/Nm (257.1 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced power-to-weight characteristic for a full-size pickup. With a substantial fuel tank capacity of 22.45 US gallons (85 liters), the Tundra offers a respectable cruising range. Furthermore, its impressive towing capability is highlighted by a permitted trailer load with brakes of 11,089.25 lbs (5030 kg), alongside a permitted towbar download of 1,119.95 lbs (508 kg), affirming its readiness for heavy-duty tasks.

Design, Dimensions, and Advanced Features

The Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed is visually imposing, reflecting its inherent capability and rugged design philosophy. As a full-size pickup truck, its dimensions are substantial, designed to accommodate both passengers and cargo with ease. The Double Cab configuration offers four doors and seating for five occupants, striking a balance between passenger space and a generously sized cargo bed. Its overall length measures 252.52 inches (6414 mm), with a width of 80.2 inches (2037 mm) and a height of 77.99 inches (1981 mm). The extended wheelbase of 164.61 inches (4181 mm) contributes to both ride stability and interior volume, while the front and rear tracks are identical at 68.39 inches (1737 mm), ensuring a planted stance.

Underneath its robust exterior, the Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed features a sophisticated chassis and suspension system engineered for both on-road comfort and off-road prowess. The front suspension employs a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer, providing precise handling and excellent wheel articulation. At the rear, a rigid axle suspension with coil springs replaces the leaf springs of previous generations, significantly improving ride quality, particularly when unladen, and enhancing overall comfort for passengers. The vehicle boasts a substantial ground clearance (ride height) of 9.29 inches (236 mm), making it well-suited for navigating rough terrain. Its approach angle of 21° and departure angle of 24° further underscore its off-road capabilities, allowing it to tackle steep inclines and declines without scraping.

Braking performance is managed by a powerful system featuring ventilated discs at both the front and rear. The front brakes measure 353 mm, while the rear brakes are 345 mm, providing ample stopping power for a vehicle of its size and weight. These are complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as a standard assisting system, ensuring controlled braking in emergency situations. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup with electric power steering, offering light effort at low speeds for maneuverability and a more weighted feel at higher speeds for stability. The minimum turning circle is 51.84 feet (15.8 meters), which is commendable for a vehicle of this length.

The Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed rolls on 265/70 R18 tires mounted on 8J x 18 wheel rims, a combination chosen for its blend of on-road comfort, traction, and durability. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 5564.47 lbs (2524 kg), while the maximum permissible weight ranges from 7264.23 to 7374.46 lbs (3295-3345 kg), allowing for a maximum payload capacity of 1699.76 to 1810 lbs (771-821 kg). The aerodynamic efficiency is reflected in a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.36, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced wind noise at highway speeds. Overall, the Tundra III Double Cab Long Bed is a thoroughly modern full-size pickup, integrating advanced engineering and thoughtful design to deliver a highly capable, comfortable, and efficient vehicle for a wide range of uses.

Technical Specifications