At a Glance: 2022 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition

The all-new Toyota Tundra is here, the first new full-size model from this manufacturer in 15 years. That’s a long interval or nearly three times as long as how the domestic competitors approach the segment, with full overhauls approximately every six years.

We spent time with Toyota last year evaluating the new Tundra and the all-new Tundra Hybrid model. We were instantly impressed by what Toyota did to bring its full-size truck to the market. Importantly, Toyota invested in a model that is outsold by the junior Tacoma by a more than 2-to-1 ratio. Apparently, Toyota believes that there is enough demand to justify the Tundra even if sales expectations have fallen short for many years.

2022 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition

Toyota dropped off a 1794 Edition Crew Cab 4×4 model for a week’s worth of evaluation. On our initial day we spent with the truck, we took dozens of photos and gave it a careful lookover. Thus, the following represents our ongoing impressions beyond last year’s media event.

What’s in a Name?

The “1794 Edition” appellation for our test model may seem like a strange one for this truck. But there is a reason behind it. First, the land on which the San Antonio plant is constructed was once home to a ranch built in 1794. Thus, the name is a tribute to it. Second, Toyota needed a western-themed model, therefore the naming convention fit right in. So, there you have it.

Rugged Styling

Whatever you think of the Tundra’s look, it is a clear departure from the previous model. This one raises its rugged expression considerably, thanks to its bold front fascia. Oversized grille designs (unique to each trim), distinctive LED lighting, and daring cutouts mark the look.

The usual slab side expression is apparent with Toyota adding its own character lines and embellishments to distinguish this model. From the rear, the ribbed taillights offer a sporty touch. The TUNDRA tailgate debossing supplies a fun touch.

Refined Interior

Truck interiors have certainly improved through the years. This year, the Tundra gains a range-topping Capstone trim that has Lexus elements incorporated. This is the first time Toyota has attempted a luxe truck and we believe it will work.

The Tundra seats five with wide, thick, and very comfortable front bucket seats and a split-folding rear bench seat. The dashboard is as wide as they come. In our 1794 model, the upper and lower tiers are split by genuine wood trim. The contrasting colors, choice materials, and western theme supply a pleasing look.

Two Powertrain Choices

Early in its history, the previous-generation Tundra offered three engine choices, then two, then one. All three were naturally aspirated and comprised one V6 and two V8 engines. The largest of the trio remained to the end, displacing 5.7 liters. The big V8 works with a 6-speed automatic transmission and has an output of 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque.

For 2022, Toyota scrapped the V8 in favor of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The new engine produces 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque (348 hp/405 lb.-ft. in the SR). These numbers easily outstrip the much larger V8 thanks to boosting technology.

Toyota also offers this engine in a hybrid system. Instead of a conventional hybrid designed to maximize fuel economy, this one gives a slight boost in efficiency, but a far greater jump in power. Indeed, with its location on the bell housing between the engine and the transmission, this powertrain is extra strong. Specifically, under full throttle the system delivers 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful gas engine in its class.

Big Tech Improvements

Toyota has seemed as if they are a step behind the competition with in-cabin technology. This year, that changes as Toyota releases its best Entune interface ever. The SR and SR5 trims have an 8-inch touchscreen display, while all other trims including the 1794 Edition receive the 14-inch display. That upgrade also replaces the standard 6- or 9-speaker audio system with a 12-speaker JBL package.

Other features available include three or five USB ports, a 120-volt power outlet, wireless charging, and connected services. Satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are included. We like the voice-activated interface as it responds following a “Hey Toyota” inquiry.

Strong Safety Features

With Toyota, nearly every product has a long list of standard driver-assist safety tech. The 2022 Tundra is no exception, including the 1794 Edition. Competing models are catching up, but Toyota raised the bar.

Every trim comes with a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. Full-speed radar cruise control with lane control, automatic high beams, and road assign assist come standard. Blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert and trailer detection are available.

Conclusion

The all-new Toyota Tundra offers across-the-board improvements that make it a stronger competitor. Indeed, owners of the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and the Nissan Titan may find the new model to their liking. Further, Toyota now has a stronger punch in the truck segment with an all-new Tacoma soon to follow. We believe an electric will someday follow.

Lastly, the 2022 Tundra covers more bases with two powertrain choices and a new range-topping model. The flip side though is that it is becoming increasingly more difficult to find a full-size pickup truck for under $40,000 with the mid-$50K range common.

2022 Toyota Tundra Specifications

Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

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