The next season for the Tundra full-size truck is going to be very interesting. Since the company rubbished rumors about the new diesel engine coming for 2019, it is likely that the next model will offer it. Besides a diesel drivetrain, the 2020 Toyota Tundra will bring a new look after the redesign. Its main rivals Ram 1500, Chevy Silverado 1500, and Ford F-150 will head into new generations in 2019. Toyota is a bit late, but the Tundra is still competitive thanks to the recent update and TRD Pro package.
Engineers are working on towing capacity improvements and tougher version of 2020 Toyota Tundra. After they finish the development, the truck will offer higher specs. Also, changes will include new colors for this model. TRD Pro colors are unique and these will be different from the standard offer. While we expect the first spy shots, the company is still quiet about the new 2020 Tundra. NAIAS 2019 is happening in three months, and that will be a great chance to introduce the new model for the upcoming season.
2020 Toyota Tundra Engines and Specs
A lot of things will depend on the new diesel drivetrain. But, the Japanese carmaker disappointed their fans last two seasons. So, until those rumors become official, 2020 Toyota Tundra will stick to its current engine lineup.
The base pickup is offering a V8 engine that is capable to produce 310 hp. Also, a 4.6-liter unit can develop 330 lb-ft of torque. Engineers are not changing this powertrain. Small modifications could improve gas mileage and output. But, that is an only minor boost from the current 17 mpg rating. The engine is using a 4×2 and 4×4 drive systems. The power router is a six-speed automatic transmission.
The same gearbox and drive modes are available for the larger 5.7-liter engine. A V8 is more potent and creates 381 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, this is not the best version if you are looking for a fuel-friendly truck. The 2020 Toyota Tundra will drive 15 mpg combined with four-wheel drive setup. The good thing is the larger unit can use E85 and not just the regular fuel.
2020 Toyota Tundra Diesel
After big expectations, fans were disappointed when Toyota announced the diesel engine is not coming for 2019. However, since rumors are coming from trusted sources, enthusiasts and experts are sure the 2020 Toyota Tundra Diesel is more realistic than ever.
The only engine Toyota could use for the 2020 Toyota Tundra is a 4.5-liter V-8. This is a VD model that produces up to 270 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. This is a fair output for such a model. Ford F-150 diesel will get 420 pound-feet from its Powerstroke. Cummins produces power for Ram 1500 and power/torque values are very similar to Powerstroke’s in Ford. Chevy Silverado Diesel is not far away with 440 lb-ft produced by Duramax unit.
The only problem could be emissions of a VD diesel engine. Toyota needs to tune it for demanding US market. The other, less likely possibility is to develop a new unit. This might be the case this time since the Japanese company is delaying the arrival of the Tundra Diesel for the past few years. Now, when rivals have made the first step, Toyota must respond.
Towing Capacity
The diesel engine will make the 2020 Toyota Tundra offer more towing capacity. Currently, the truck sits at about 10,000 pounds. Some big SUVs are just 1,000 pounds short of this. Well, a truck will always have its advantages, since these are mules designed to work.
2020 Toyota Tundra Redesign and Configurations
Buyers of the new 2020 Toyota Tundra will have plenty of options and features to upgrade their truck. The redesign is bringing the new look of the front fascia, headlights, and bumpers. We believe the truckmaker will respond to Chevrolet’s six-way tailgate with innovative options for bed accessing. Details are still unknown, but the big overhaul is happening in designers’ room.
Spy shots are pretty old, and we believed most changes will come for the 2019 year model. But, since the current edition just refreshed the market, the next pickup must be breathtaking. There are six trim levels to start with. Platinum model is the most exclusive and the most expensive. However, 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro will be slightly more affordable, but it brings numerous improvement for an off-road drive. Cheaper versions are Limited and SR5, while the base model will remain Tundra SR.
Double and Crew Cab, and long/standard/short bed are further options you will be able to pick, depending on trim level.
2020 Toyota Tundra Trd Pro
Definitely, the most interesting model ever since Toyota added it, is TRD Pro. This set of features is going to be available for 2020 Toyota Tundra, Tacoma small truck, and 4Runner SUV. Sequoia and Land Cruiser might also get in in future.
Fox suspension is something that makes off-road drive very smooth. Special 46mm piston and 2.5-inch shocks will be installed on the front axle. A similar setup is on the rear end as well. Interior clearly shows you are riding in a TRD Pro machine. Badges are impossible to avoid. Grey leather and red stitches are luxurious and eye-catching. Exterior also introduces a new palette of colors. For now, there are only three options. The next 2020 Tundra will add a couple of unique paintjobs for sure.
2020 Toyota Tundra Release Date
When does 2020 Toyota Tundra come out is a matter of time. It could happen even this year in LA. However, this is a very popular model and car show in Detroit is the right place for its premiere. The carmaker could only give a preview there, with more details following during 2019. The 2020 Tundra Diesel is not arriving in the first half of the year. However, we expect the official announcement during that period.
The 2020 Toyota Tundra will keep the price list to stay competitive. The entry-level model is SR and it will cost $31,500. For AWD and 5.7-liter engine buyers must add around $6,000. Diesel will cost somewhere between these values. Top of the range models are Platinum and TRD Pro. Their price will exceed $50k. Also, there is the 1794 Edition model, but this one is not certain for the future.