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 Tundra (U100 series) underwent a significant facelift in 2002, refining its styling and enhancing its capabilities. The 2002-2004 Toyota Tundra SR5 4.7i V8 4×4 Regular Cab model, detailed here, was a key variant within this generation, offering a powerful V8 engine and four-wheel drive for demanding tasks and conditions. It served as a direct competitor to domestic offerings from Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge.
Toyota Tundra I (Facelift 2002) SR5 4.7i V8 4×4: An Overview
The facelifted first-generation Tundra, produced from 2002 to 2004, built upon the foundation of the original model, addressing some early criticisms and improving overall refinement. The SR5 trim level represented a step up in features and appointments compared to the base model, and the 4.7-liter V8 engine provided substantial power for towing and hauling. The Regular Cab configuration offered a more compact footprint compared to extended or crew cab versions, appealing to buyers prioritizing maneuverability and a lower price point. This Tundra was engineered to provide a comfortable ride and durable performance, establishing Toyota as a serious contender in the full-size truck segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2002-2004 Toyota Tundra SR5 4.7i 4×4 is the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 240 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 427 Nm (314.94 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine features a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port manifold injection system. This configuration delivers a robust and reliable power output suitable for a wide range of applications, from daily commuting to heavy-duty work. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 8.5 kg/Hp, or 117.9 Hp/tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.8 kg/Nm, or 209.7 Nm/tonne. Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission with ECT (Electronic Control Transmission) functionality. Fuel economy is rated at 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg) in urban driving and 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) in extra-urban conditions.
Design & Features
The 2002-2004 Toyota Tundra SR5 Regular Cab is a two-door, four-seat pickup truck with a longitudinal front-engine layout. Its body-on-frame construction provides a solid and durable platform. The truck’s dimensions are 5545 mm (218.31 in.) in length, 1910 mm (75.2 in.) in width, and 1805 mm (71.06 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 3259 mm (128.31 in.). The Tundra boasts a substantial cargo bed volume of 2625 liters (92.7 cu. ft.). Ground clearance is a generous 284 mm (11.18 in.), enhancing its off-road capability. The SR5 trim included features such as upgraded interior materials, power windows and locks, and an enhanced audio system. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The approach and departure angles are 27° and 24° respectively, aiding in off-road traversal. The Tundra’s design prioritized functionality and durability, with a focus on providing a comfortable and capable work truck.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tundra |
| Generation | Tundra I Regular Cab (facelift 2002) |
| Type (Engine) | 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 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 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 engine |
| 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 | 2036 kg (4488.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 776 kg (1710.79 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%) | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Length | 5545 mm (218.31 in.) |
| Width | 1910 mm (75.2 in.) |
| Height | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3259 mm (128.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1673 mm (65.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 284 mm (11.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.5 m (44.29 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, 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 SR5 4.7i V8 4×4 Regular Cab established Toyota as a viable competitor in the full-size pickup truck market. Its combination of power, reliability, and features made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a durable and capable truck.
