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, enhancing its styling and features. The 2002-2004 Tundra Double Cab SR5 4.7i V8 4×4 model, examined here, was a key variant, offering a blend of power, capability, and passenger space. It aimed to challenge established domestic manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge, offering a Japanese alternative with a reputation for reliability.
Toyota Tundra I Double Cab (2002-2004)
The facelifted Tundra I Double Cab, produced from 2002 to 2004, built upon the foundation of the original model, addressing some early criticisms and refining the overall package. The Double Cab configuration, offering a second row of seats, broadened the Tundra’s appeal to families and those needing more passenger capacity than a traditional regular cab pickup. The SR5 trim level represented a step up in features and appointments, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a well-equipped truck. This generation Tundra was a crucial stepping stone for Toyota in establishing a foothold in the full-size truck segment.
Engine & Performance
The 2002-2004 Tundra Double Cab SR5 4.7i was powered by Toyota’s 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 longitudinal front engine layout, multi-port fuel injection, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 9.6:1 compression ratio contributed to a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s 4664 cm³ (284.61 cu. in.) displacement provided ample torque for towing and hauling. Power was delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission with ECT (Electronic Controlled Transmission). The weight-to-power ratio of 9.4 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.3 kg/Nm indicated a reasonably responsive vehicle for its size and class. Fuel economy was rated at 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg) in urban driving and 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions.
Design & Features
The 2002-2004 Tundra Double Cab was a four-door, five-seat pickup truck with a body-on-frame construction. The facelift brought subtle styling updates to the front fascia, including a revised grille and headlights, giving it a more modern appearance. The Double Cab configuration offered a significantly more spacious rear seat compared to the standard cab models. The SR5 trim included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an upgraded audio system. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The truck’s dimensions – 5845 mm (230.12 in) in length, 2014 mm (79.29 in) in width, and 1879 mm (73.98 in) in height – positioned it as a full-size pickup. Ground clearance was a substantial 302 mm (11.89 in), enhancing its off-road capability. Approach and departure angles of 26° and 23° respectively, further aided in navigating challenging terrain. The Tundra’s design prioritized functionality and durability, reflecting its intended use as a work truck and family vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tundra |
| Generation | Tundra I Double Cab (facelift 2002) |
| Type | SR5 4.7i V8 (240 Hp) 4×4 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) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 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 | 2252 kg (4964.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2994 kg (6600.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 742 kg (1635.83 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2131 kg (4698.05 lbs.) |
| Length | 5845 mm (230.12 in.) |
| Width | 2014 mm (79.29 in.) |
| Height | 1879 mm (73.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3271 mm (128.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1673 mm (65.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 302 mm (11.89 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission ECT |
| 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 |
The 2002-2004 Toyota Tundra Double Cab SR5 4.7i V8 4×4 represented Toyota’s commitment to providing a competitive full-size pickup truck in North America. While it didn’t immediately dethrone the established domestic brands, it earned a reputation for reliability and build quality, laying the groundwork for the Tundra’s continued success in the segment. The combination of V8 power, four-wheel drive capability, and a spacious Double Cab configuration made it a versatile choice for both work and family use.
