2021 Toyota Tundra III CrewMax Short Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i

The Toyota Tundra III CrewMax Short Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i, introduced in September 2021, represents the third generation of Toyota’s full-size pickup truck. Designed primarily for the North American market, the Tundra competes with domestic offerings like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ram 1500. This generation marked a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring a new platform, updated styling, and a focus on enhanced technology and efficiency. The CrewMax configuration denotes a larger rear passenger cabin, prioritizing comfort alongside utility, while the short bed offers a balance between cargo space and maneuverability. The 4×2 designation indicates a two-wheel drive drivetrain.

Toyota Tundra III CrewMax: A New Generation

The Tundra has historically been Toyota’s entry into the highly competitive full-size pickup segment. Previous generations, while reliable, often lagged behind competitors in terms of features and performance. The third generation, however, aimed to address these shortcomings with a comprehensive redesign. The “i-FORCE” branding signifies the powerful V6 engine under the hood, and the “ECT-i” denotes the electronically controlled transmission with intelligence, optimizing shift patterns for both performance and fuel economy. This model year represents a pivotal shift for the Tundra, moving it towards a more modern and competitive position in the market.

Engine & Performance

Powering the 2021 Toyota Tundra CrewMax Short Bed is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, designated V35A-FTS, which produces 389 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 649 Nm (478.68 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2400 rpm. This engine utilizes a twin-turbocharged configuration with an intercooler, along with direct and multi-port fuel injection, contributing to its robust power output and relatively efficient operation. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 6 kg/Hp, or 166.2 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 3.6 kg/Nm, or 277.2 Nm/tonne. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission (ECT-i). Fuel economy is rated at 11.8 l/100 km combined (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l), with 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) in urban settings and 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) on the highway. The engine meets LEV-III emission standards.

Design & Features

The Toyota Tundra III CrewMax Short Bed is a four-door pickup truck with a short bed configuration. Its exterior design features a bold and aggressive front grille, prominent headlights, and a muscular body profile. The CrewMax cabin provides ample space for five passengers, prioritizing rear-seat comfort. Key features include a robust suspension system – double wishbone at the front and a rigid axle with coil springs at the rear – designed to handle both on-road driving and light off-road conditions. Safety features, standard for this model year, include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, with a length of 5933 mm (233.58 in), a width of 2037 mm (80.2 in), and a height of 1981 mm (77.99 in). The wheelbase measures 3701 mm (145.71 in), and the vehicle boasts a ground clearance of 236 mm (9.29 in). The drag coefficient is rated at 0.36. The turning circle is 14.8 m (48.56 ft). Approach and departure angles are 21° and 24° respectively.

Technical Specifications

The 2021 Toyota Tundra III CrewMax Short Bed 3.5 V6 i-FORCE (389 Hp) 4×2 ECT-i represents a significant step forward for Toyota in the full-size pickup truck segment, offering a compelling combination of power, technology, and comfort.