The latest iteration of the Toyota Tundra, set to be released in 2024, boasts a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5 V-6 engine. This engine can be either a standalone unit or combined with a hybrid system. Turbocharged engines are renowned for their upgrade potential, and even Toyota is jumping on the bandwagon by offering a power boost for the Tundra’s engine.
Toyota took advantage of the 2023 SEMA show to unveil the TRD Performance Package, specially designed to enhance the Tundra’s V-6 engine. This package increases the base powertrain’s output by 32 horsepower, bringing it to 421 hp, while the hybrid powertrain gets a boost to 469 hp. Additionally, peak torque is available at a lower rpm for both powertrains. In comparison, the Ford F-150 Raptor, which also features a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6, delivers 450 hp.
To achieve this extra performance, engineers from Toyota’s TRD performance division made several modifications. They added a high-flow intake and high-flow cat-back exhaust with a unique tip design. The engine management system was also recalibrated to account for the improved airflow, and the throttle response was fine-tuned to enhance overall performance.
The TRD Performance Package will be available for purchase from early 2024, with a price tag of $3,400. Initially, it will only be offered as a factory-installed option for new Tundras. However, Toyota is actively working to make it available as a retrofit option that can be installed at dealers. Furthermore, the automaker is considering expanding the package to other vehicles that feature the same twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 engine.
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While the TRD Performance Package is an exciting upgrade, Toyota has not revealed any plans for more extensive enhancements to compete directly with other performance full-size pickups such as the Ford Ranger and the Ram 1500 TRX. Nevertheless, Toyota has shown interest in exploring such possibilities. Two years ago, at the SEMA show, the automaker introduced the TRD Desert Chase Tundra, a concept vehicle featuring a wide-body design, long-travel suspension, and underbody protection.
Overall, the TRD Performance Package enhances the already impressive power of the Toyota Tundra’s engine, offering customers the opportunity to experience even greater performance. With the addition of the high-flow intake, high-flow cat-back exhaust, and engine management modifications, the Tundra will deliver a thrilling driving experience. The package’s availability as a retrofit option showcases Toyota’s commitment to customer satisfaction and ensuring that existing Tundra owners can also benefit from these upgrades. Additionally, the potential expansion of the package to other vehicles highlights Toyota’s dedication to providing high-performance options to a wider range of customers.
As the release date for the 2024 Toyota Tundra approaches, automotive enthusiasts eagerly await more details regarding any further upgrades and enhancements that the automaker may have in store. The TRD Performance Package is just the beginning, and it remains to be seen if Toyota will develop a Tundra variant that can go toe-to-toe with the performance-focused full-size pickups dominating the market. However, one thing is certain – Toyota’s commitment to innovation and performance continues to drive them towards pushing the boundaries and delivering exciting vehicles to their customers.
