Overview

What Changed for 2009:

• E85 flex-fuel capability with 5.7-liter V-8 engine and 4WD (in some regions)
• Bench seat available at no cost on SR5
• Chrome bumper standard on Double Cab and Crew Max
• Power memory package optional on Crew Max Limited
• Regular Cab cold kit includes windshield de-icer
• New TRD Sport option
• New TRD Rock Warrior option

Overview
The Toyota Tundra full-size pickup truck was completely redesigned for the 2007 model year and beefed up in many ways, including higher towing capacity, wider array of trim and engine choices, and, according to Toyota, one of the biggest cabs in the segment (CrewMax). For 2009, the Tundra is updated with some new features, an ethanol-capable powertrain, and new TRD (Toyota Racing Development) option packages.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Toyota Tundra comes in three cab styles: Regular, Double Cab and CrewMax, and in 2- or 4-wheel drive (2WD or 4WD). You can opt for standard-bed or long-bed length, and base Tundra, SR5 or Limited trim levels. Standard equipment on the base and SR5 models has made them more competitive with the offerings from the domestic brands. The CrewMax cab offers more interior volume, with the most rear leg room in the segment, according to Toyota, at more than 44 inches. Standard features on the base Tundra regular cab includes: dual glove box, tailgate assist, AM/FM/CD player with 4 speakers, manual dual-zone air conditioning, and cloth front 40/20/40-split bench seat. The base Double Cab model adds cruise control, remote keyless entry, power side-view mirrors, and storage areas under the door armrests. The SR5 Double Cab adds 18-inch wheels and tires, cloth bucket seats, power heated side-view mirrors, mud guards, and a multi-information display. The CrewMax Limited top-end model features an anti-theft alarm system, fog lamps, rear door privacy glass, overhead console with storage, leather-trimmed seats, heated power driver's seat with memory, chrome door handles, and an automatic oil temperature gauge.

New for the 2009 model year are two option packages from Toyota Racing Development: TRD Sport and TRD Rock Warrior. Both include unique wheels and color-keyed exterior-black and red for TRD Sport and black and white for Rock Warrior. Rock Warrior also includes a special off-road suspension.

Powertrain
The base powerplant in the 2009 Tundra is a version of Toyota's dual-overhead cam (DOHC), 24-valve, 4.0-liter V-6 engine that's rated at 236 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque. The entry-level V-8 engine is Toyota's familiar DOHC 4.7-liter unit, with 276 horses and 313 lb.-ft. of torque. The biggest engine is the 5.7-liter iFORCE V-8, which boasts 381 hp and 401 lb.-ft. of torque. This is Toyota's first aluminum block/aluminum head truck V-8 engine. The V-6 and 4.7-liter V-8 engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the 5.7-liter V-8 engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacities range from a low of 5000 pounds on the Regular Cab V-6 long bed to a maximum of 10,800 pounds on the Regular Cab with the 5.7-liter V-8 engine.

EPA fuel-economy estimates for the Toyota Tundra are 15 mpg city/19 mpg highway for the 4.0-liter V-6 engine with 2WD, 14 mpg city/17 mpg highway for the 4.7-liter V-8 engine with 2WD, 13 mpg city/16 mpg highway for the 4.7-liter engine in 4WD mode, 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway for the 5.7-liter V-8 engine with 2WD, and 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway for the 5.7-liter engine in 4WD mode.

Safety
All 2009 Tundras feature Toyota's STAR safety system that includes traction control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), brake assist, and electronic brake-force distribution. All models also come standard with roll-sensing side curtain air bags and front-seat side-mounted air bags, as well as advanced front air bags.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2009 Toyota Tundra receives 4 stars (out of 5) in frontal crash testing for both driver and front passenger. It was not tested for side impact, but did earn 3 stars for resistance to rollover in 2WD versions and 4 stars for 4WD models. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the 2009 Toyota Tundra a "Top Safety Pick" rating.