Toyota Boosts Power for Tundra with TRD Performance Package

Can the TRD Performance Package turn the Tundra into the most desirable pickup truck on the market?

Toyota is giving its Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 rival, the Tundra, a power upgrade with the new TRD Performance Package. Set to be available in the US from early 2024, this package increases the power output of both the standard 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 engine and the i-Force Max 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 hybrid.

The new TRD Performance Package for the Toyota Tundra is set to make it an even more formidable competitor to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. Toyota is upping the power game by offering this package, which will be available in the US starting from early 2024.

With the standard 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, the power output is increased from 290kW to 314kW. While peak torque remains the same at 649Nm, it now comes on sooner at 2000rpm. Toyota explains that this broader torque band and improved power delivery at throttle tip in results in better pickup for the pickup truck.

The i-Force Max 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 hybrid models also benefit from the TRD Performance Package. These models see a power bump from 326kW to 350kW, while torque remains unchanged at 790Nm. Toyota achieved this increase in power by making both hardware and software changes. The turbochargers receive increased airflow, and the engine management system has been recalibrated.

In addition to power upgrades, the TRD Performance Package also includes some visual and auditory enhancements. The package features larger, higher-flowing dual intakes, a higher flowing cat-back exhaust, and unique exhaust tips. These changes give the Tundra a sportier feel and a more menacing exhaust note.

However, there are a few requirements for models equipped with the TRD Performance Package. Toyota USA states that these models will require 91 octane fuel, which is considered premium in the US. The only visual cues to distinguish a Tundra with the package are unique badges. In terms of pricing, the TRD Performance Package adds an extra US$3400 (A$5288) to the price of a new Tundra.

While the TRD Performance Package is currently only available for the Tundra, Toyota is considering expanding it to other models in the future. The Sequoia and Tacoma are potential candidates for the package, as they share similarities with the Tundra.

In terms of an Australian launch for the Tundra, Toyota has not made an official announcement yet. However, the company is currently remanufacturing 300 examples from left to right-hand drive as part of a real-world evaluation and validation program. According to Toyota Australia, customer testing is necessary before full-scale production can be approved. The company is also taking a unique approach to getting customer feedback by offering a full-service lease instead of selling the vehicles outright.

Walkinshaw Automotive Group is partnering with Toyota Australia in the re-engineering of the Tundra for right-hand drive. This partnership will utilize key components from Toyota’s global parts catalog, including the steering column and rack, pedals, and shift lever from the right-hand drive LandCruiser 300 Series. The first batch of right-hand drive Tundra test mules will feature the hybrid powertrain.

With the TRD Performance Package, Toyota is stepping up the game for the Tundra. The power upgrades and other enhancements make the Tundra an even more powerful and appealing option in the competitive pickup truck market.

Do you think the TRD Performance Package will make the Tundra a more desirable pickup truck?

• Standard engine power boosted from 290kW to 314kW
• i-Force Max models get a power bump from 326kW to 350kW
• Hardware and software changes made to increase power
• Throttle tuning and exhaust upgrades for a sportier feel
• Package adds US$3400 to the price of a new Tundra

Toyota’s new TRD Performance Package for the Tundra offers a significant power boost, improved torque delivery, and visual enhancements. With increased power outputs for both the standard engine and the hybrid variant, as well as hardware and software upgrades, the Tundra becomes a more formidable competitor. While the package adds to the price, it provides a sportier feel and a more menacing exhaust note. Toyota’s consideration of expanding the package to other models suggests that this upgrade may not be limited to the Tundra alone. The company’s remanufacturing of left to right-hand drive Tundra examples in Australia signifies a potential future launch. Overall, the TRD Performance Package brings the Tundra to a new level of power and performance.