Can the new Tundra give Ford’s F-series a run for its money? 

Can the new Tundra give Ford’s F-series a run for its money?

Toyota has introduced a bigger, beefier Tundra pickup at the Chicago Auto Show. Taking its cue from the styling of the FTX concept truck from 2004, the 2007 Tundra is without a doubt making an aim for the spot where Ford and GM are holding on tightly – the top pickup truck spot.



First introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model, the Tundra has since then won numerous awards and has been recognized for its value, quality and reliability. The completely redesigned 2007 Tundra will be bigger, more powerful and will offer new body and engine configurations.

"From bumper-to-bumper, under the hood and from the inside out the new Tundra is a true American truck that will set a new benchmark in the full-size truck segment," said Jim Lentz, TMS group vice president and general manager. "It will be aimed at the ‘True Trucker,' the true opinion leaders among full-size owners. True Truckers are highly credible because they use, punish, and demand the most out of the pickups they buy."



And set a new benchmark it has. The Tundra has been super-sized in every metric of comparison with the vehicle it replaces. Its all-new, full-size platform will feature a significantly expanded wheelbase and an increase of 10 inches in overall length. Tundra will also gain nearly five inches in height and will be four full inches wider than before, placing it among the segment leaders in overall size. When it goes on sale about a year from now (or maybe sooner), here’s what buyers will find:

* A bigger truck. The Tundra's wheelbase has been stretched 10 inches to 138.3 inches on the standard cab. The wheelbase on the Double Cab is 150.5 inches. The overall length grows about the same amount, ranging from about 228 to 240 inches.
* A new 5.7-liter V-8 joins the engine lineup. That engine should make more than 300 hp and be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It will join the current engines - a 4.0-liter V-6 that was rated at 236 hp for 2006 and a 4.7-liter V-8 that was rated at 271 hp.
* Towing capacity rated at more than 10,000 pounds.
* Three trim levels - base, SR5 and Limited - and three cab configurations, including the Double Cab.
* The options list will include a rearview backup camera and Bluetooth connectivity for cellular telephones.

In the meantime, while waiting for this magnificent truck to hit the market, keep your own set of wheels in shape with excellent auto parts like wheels, radiators, lights, window regulators and mirrors from your trusted online auto parts store, Auto Parts Discount.