Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i

The Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i represents a significant evolution in the full-size pickup truck segment, marking the third generation of Toyota’s formidable entry into the North American market. Launched in September 2021, this iteration of the Tundra was engineered from the ground up to compete fiercely with established domestic rivals, showcasing a profound commitment to modern powertrain technology, enhanced capability, and refined comfort. As a flagship model for Toyota in the critical pickup truck category, the Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed is designed to meet the diverse demands of American consumers, from heavy-duty work applications to everyday commuting and recreational towing, all while adhering to stringent contemporary emission standards and delivering improved fuel efficiency.

Engine and Performance: The i-FORCE Revolution in the Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed

At the heart of the Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i lies a revolutionary powertrain, signaling a departure from the previous generation’s naturally aspirated V8s. This model is equipped with the advanced 3.5-liter V6 i-FORCE twin-turbo engine, designated by the internal code V35A-FTS. This sophisticated powerplant generates a robust 389 horsepower at 5200 rpm, delivering a potent blend of performance and efficiency. More critically for a pickup truck, the engine produces an impressive 478.68 lb.-ft. of torque, available at a low 2400 rpm, ensuring ample pulling power and responsive acceleration from a standstill or when hauling heavy loads.

The engineering behind this twin-turbo V6 is state-of-the-art, featuring a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), which optimizes valve timing for both intake and exhaust to enhance power delivery and fuel economy across the rev range. The fuel injection system is equally advanced, combining both direct injection and multi-port manifold injection. This dual-injection strategy allows for precise fuel delivery under varying engine loads, improving combustion efficiency, reducing emissions, and preventing carbon buildup. Furthermore, the inclusion of an intercooler ensures that the twin-turbochargers operate at peak efficiency, maintaining cooler intake air temperatures for consistent power output.

Power is seamlessly managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, known as ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence). This gearbox is meticulously calibrated to provide smooth, crisp shifts, optimizing the engine’s power band for both performance and fuel efficiency. With ten gears, the transmission allows the engine to operate within its ideal rev range more consistently, whether cruising on the highway or navigating challenging terrain. This particular configuration features a 4×2 drivetrain architecture, meaning the internal combustion engine drives the rear wheels, a common setup for full-size pickups focused on on-road performance and towing capability.

Despite its formidable power, the 3.5 V6 i-FORCE engine is designed with efficiency in mind. The combined fuel economy is rated at 19.9 US mpg (11.8 l/100 km), with urban consumption at 18 US mpg (13.1 l/100 km) and extra-urban at 23.1 US mpg (10.2 l/100 km). These figures represent a significant improvement over previous-generation V8s, making the Tundra more competitive in an era of increasing fuel consciousness. The vehicle also meets the LEV-III emission standard, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to environmental responsibility. With a weight-to-power ratio of 5.9 kg/Hp (168.3 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.6 kg/Nm (280.8 Nm/tonne), the Tundra demonstrates a well-balanced power-to-weight characteristic that contributes to its impressive overall performance.

Design, Features, and Capability

The Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed presents a commanding presence, characterized by its robust and purposeful design. As a full-size pickup, its dimensions are substantial: a length of 233.58 inches (5933 mm), a width of 80.2 inches (2037 mm), and a height of 77.99 inches (1981 mm). The extended 145.71-inch (3701 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and generous interior space, while the standard bed configuration offers practical utility for cargo. This Double Cab variant provides seating for five occupants across four doors, blending passenger comfort with cargo-hauling versatility. The exterior design is further enhanced by a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.36, a respectable figure for a vehicle of its size, contributing to both aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.

Underneath its rugged exterior, the Tundra III boasts a thoroughly modernized chassis and suspension system. The front suspension employs a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer, providing precise steering response and comfortable ride quality. A significant upgrade for this generation is the rear suspension, which transitions from traditional leaf springs to a rigid axle with coil springs. This change dramatically improves ride comfort, especially when unladen, and enhances handling dynamics, making the Tundra a more refined vehicle for daily driving without compromising its workhorse capabilities. Braking performance is handled by large ventilated discs, 353 mm at the front and 345 mm at the rear, ensuring strong, consistent stopping power, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety.

The Tundra’s utility is further highlighted by its impressive carrying and towing capacities. With a kerb weight ranging from 5094.88 to 5213.93 lbs (2311-2365 kg), it can handle a maximum payload of 1940.07 to 2160.53 lbs (880-980 kg). For those who need to haul, the Tundra truly shines, boasting a permitted trailer load with brakes of an exceptional 11,999.76 lbs (5443 kg) and a permitted towbar download of 1199.31 lbs (544 kg). These figures underscore its readiness for heavy-duty tasks, from pulling large boats to substantial work trailers. A generous 22.45 US gallon (85-liter) fuel tank capacity ensures extended range between fill-ups, a crucial feature for long hauls or remote work sites.

Maneuverability for such a large vehicle is aided by an electric power steering system with a rack and pinion steering type, providing light effort at low speeds for parking and precise control at higher speeds. The minimum turning circle is 48.56 feet (14.8 m), which is competitive for its class. The Tundra’s off-road potential, even in this 4×2 configuration, is suggested by a healthy ride height of 9.29 inches (236 mm), an approach angle of 21°, and a departure angle of 24°. Standard tires are 265/70 R18 mounted on 8J x 18 wheel rims, providing a good balance of on-road comfort and traction. Overall, the Toyota Tundra III Double Cab Standard Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i is a meticulously engineered pickup that marries robust capability with modern technology and improved driving dynamics, making it a compelling choice in the highly competitive full-size truck market.

Technical Specifications