The Toyota Tundra, launched in 1999, represented Toyota’s initial foray into the full-size pickup truck market in North America. Designed specifically to appeal to American truck buyers, the Tundra aimed to offer a blend of Japanese reliability, robust construction, and competitive features. The first generation, designated the Tundra I, underwent a significant facelift in 2002, refining its styling and enhancing its capabilities. The 2002-2004 Tundra I Access Cab SR5 4.7i V8, equipped with a 4.7-liter engine and automatic transmission, was a popular configuration, offering a balance of power, passenger space, and utility. This model aimed to compete directly with established American manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge.
Toyota Tundra I Access Cab (2002-2004) SR5 4.7i V8
The facelifted Tundra I Access Cab SR5 4.7i V8, produced from 2002 to 2004, built upon the foundation of the original Tundra, addressing some early criticisms and improving overall refinement. The “Access Cab” configuration provided a smaller second row of seating, increasing passenger flexibility compared to the standard cab models. The SR5 trim level denoted a step up in features and appointments, making it a well-rounded option for both work and personal use. This generation of Tundra was notable for its relatively compact size compared to domestic full-size trucks, which appealed to buyers who preferred a more manageable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2002-2004 Tundra I Access Cab SR5 was the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produced 240 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 427 Nm (314.94 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and multi-port fuel injection. The 4.7-liter V8 provided adequate power for towing and hauling, with a weight-to-power ratio of 8.3 kg/Hp. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration were standard for American pickup trucks. Power was delivered through a 4-speed automatic transmission with ECT (Electronic Control Transmission) functionality. Fuel economy was rated at 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg) in urban driving and 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions. The engine’s displacement of 4664 cm3 (284.61 cu. in.) and compression ratio of 9.6:1 contributed to its robust performance and durability.
Design & Features
The 2002-2004 Tundra I Access Cab was a traditional body-on-frame pickup truck, offering a rugged and durable construction. The Access Cab configuration featured a four-door layout with a smaller rear seat, providing occasional passenger accommodation. The SR5 trim included features such as upgraded interior materials, power windows and locks, and air conditioning. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The truck’s design prioritized functionality and durability over outright styling flair, aligning with the expectations of American truck buyers. The bed offered a substantial 2625 liters (92.7 cu. ft.) of cargo space. Ride height, or ground clearance, was a generous 274 mm (10.79 in), enhancing its off-road capability. Approach and departure angles of 27° and 23° respectively, further aided in navigating challenging terrain. The Tundra’s dimensions – 5545 mm (218.31 in) in length, 2014 mm (79.29 in) in width, and 1801 mm (70.91 in) in height – positioned it as a mid-size full-size truck, smaller than some of its domestic competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tundra |
| Generation | Tundra I Access Cab (facelift 2002) |
| Type (Engine) | SR5 4.7i V8 (240 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque | 427 Nm @ 3400 rpm (314.94 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2UZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 4664 cm3 (284.61 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.7 l (12.36 US qt | 10.29 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 817 kg (1801.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2625 l (92.7 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2404 kg (5299.91 lbs.) |
| Length | 5545 mm (218.31 in.) |
| Width | 2014 mm (79.29 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3259 mm (128.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1681 mm (66.18 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 274 mm (10.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.6 m (44.62 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission ECT |
The 2002-2004 Toyota Tundra I Access Cab SR5 4.7i V8, while not achieving the sales volume of its domestic rivals, established Toyota as a credible contender in the full-size pickup truck segment. Its reputation for reliability, combined with a comfortable ride and capable V8 engine, made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a durable and dependable truck. The Tundra’s success paved the way for subsequent generations, which would further refine Toyota’s presence in the North American truck market.
