The Toyota Tundra, launched in 1999, represented Toyota’s initial full-size pickup truck offering, specifically designed to penetrate the highly competitive North American market. The first generation, designated the Tundra I, underwent a significant facelift in 2002, with production of this updated model running through 2006. The 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra I Access Cab SR5 4.7i V8, equipped with a 4.7-liter engine and automatic transmission, was a key variant within this generation, aimed at buyers needing a versatile and powerful pickup for work and personal use. This model aimed to provide a blend of capability, comfort, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Toyota Tundra I Access Cab (2005-2006) SR5 4.7i V8
The Tundra I Access Cab facelift, produced from 2005 to 2006, built upon the foundation of the original Tundra, addressing some initial criticisms and enhancing its appeal. The Access Cab configuration offered a smaller second row of seating compared to the larger CrewMax introduced later, but provided increased interior space and versatility over the standard cab models. The SR5 trim level represented a step up in features and appointments, making it a popular choice for both individual owners and fleet buyers. The 4.7-liter V8 engine was the premium engine option, delivering substantial power and torque for towing and hauling.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2005-2006 Tundra I Access Cab SR5 was the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produced 282 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 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 longitudinal engine layout contributed to a balanced weight distribution. The 4.7L engine provided a power-to-weight ratio of 7.3 kg/Hp (137.9 Hp/tonne) and a torque-to-weight ratio of 4.6 kg/Nm (215.2 Nm/tonne), offering strong acceleration and towing capacity. Power was delivered to the rear wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission with ECT (Electronic Control Transmission) functionality. Fuel economy was rated at 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg) in urban driving and 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg) on the highway.
Design & Features
The 2005-2006 Tundra I Access Cab was a traditional body-on-frame pickup truck, designed for durability and utility. The Access Cab configuration featured a four-door layout with a smaller rear seat, offering a compromise between the standard cab and the later CrewMax models. The SR5 trim added features such as upgraded interior materials, power windows and locks, and a more comprehensive audio system. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The truck’s design prioritized functionality, with a robust suspension system – double wishbone at the front and leaf springs at the rear – capable of handling heavy loads. The bed offered a maximum volume of 2625 liters (92.7 cu. ft.), providing ample space for cargo. The Tundra’s approach and departure angles of 26° and 23° respectively, offered reasonable off-road capability for a full-size pickup. The vehicle’s dimensions included a length of 5545 mm (218.31 in.), a width of 1910 mm (75.2 in.), and a height of 1796 mm (70.71 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tundra |
| Generation | Tundra I Access Cab (facelift 2002) |
| Type (Engine) | SR5 4.7i V8 (282 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 282 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3400 rpm (324.53 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 | 2045 kg (4508.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2857 kg (6298.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 812 kg (1790.15 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%) | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs.) |
| Length | 5545 mm (218.31 in.) |
| Width | 1910 mm (75.2 in.) |
| Height | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3259 mm (128.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1681 mm (66.18 in.) |
| Rear track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 264 mm (10.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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 | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission ECT |
The 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra I Access Cab SR5 4.7i V8 represented a significant step for Toyota in the full-size pickup market. It offered a compelling combination of power, capability, and Toyota’s renowned reliability, establishing a foothold for the brand in a segment traditionally dominated by American manufacturers. While superseded by the larger and more refined second-generation Tundra, the first generation remains a popular choice for those seeking a durable and capable pickup truck.
