Tundra – Latino Traffic Report

LTR Annual Truck Guide

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Sep 262022

Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the auto industry have evolved from a fad to a trend that even includes the light duty pick-up segment. EV trucks, however, have just entered the market, and as such, Latino Traffic Report (LTR) has yet to get the chance to drive one but that doesn’t mean we will skip producing our annual truck guide. LTR tested the following models that many truck buyers might like to consider for their capability and strength.

Toyota Tundra Limited CrewMax 4×4

Headlamp detail.

Redesigned for 2022, the Toyota Tundra (above) continues to establish itself within the formidable full-size truck segment. Toyota took this redesign seriously, starting with a new, aggressive exterior, then adding more competitive capability.

The V8 engine has been replaced by a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo, like the one on the test model, with 389 hp and 479 ft.–lb. of torque and a towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. With underseat storage in the back, maximum payload comes to 1,940 lbs.

Fuel economy has also improved to an EPA estimated 17 miles per gallon in the city (mpg) and 22 mpg on the highway. LTR averaged 16.7 mpg on the test drive. The hybrid version offers even more power and capability.

The test model or Tundra Limited CrewMax (four door), also included the available 14-inch touchscreen with the infotainment system that was very easy to program.

One of the most comfortable rides in the segment the Tundra now comes in a fully boxed frame that improves ride rigidity and capability.

Safety features on the test model included a blind spot monitor, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 with dynamic radar cruise control, pre-collision and pedestrian detection, and a rear seat reminder.

The test model was not without premium features like heated/cooled quilted seating as well as a heated steering wheel and the TRD Off-road Package ($3,085).

Toyota’s Texas-built truck also earned recognition from the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) who named it the Truck of Texas at its 2021 Truck Rodeo. This recognition was a first for the Tundra. It even scored a thumbs up from some tall Texans, not with TAWA, who took the time to give it a once over during the test drive.

Pricing starts at $35,950. The as tested MSRP came to $60,318.

Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab LTD LTZ 4WD

Redesigned in 2019, the Silverado gets significantly updated for 2022, offering more choices, technology and premium accents. LTR drove the Silverado 1500 Crew Cab (four door) LTD LTZ.

Powered by four available engines including an enhanced version of the 2.7-liter turbo high-output four-cylinder engine, the test model came with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline six capable of 277 hp and 460 ft.–lb. of torque and matched to a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination increases max towing by 4,000 lbs. to 13,300 lbs. plus it achieved an average fuel economy of 23.8 mpg on the test drive.

Adding to its capability, the Silverado has 89.1 cubic feet of standard cargo bed volume, 12 standard tie-downs, advanced trailering, plus the test model came with 120V power outlets in the bed and instrument panel. The test model also included the six-position Multi-Flex tailgate that configured into a step ladder for easier access to the bed. It took a little time to figure out, but once done it offered an essential leg-up, especially for the vertically challenged. The running boards were a plus too.

It came with the LTZ Texas Edition package ($3,160) that not only added Texas badging, a wise choice for selling a truck in Texas, but premium technology like wireless charging, adaptive cruise control, front pedestrian braking, and a safety seat that emitted a buzzing sensation under the thigh as a warning.

On the inside, the eight-inch-diagonal touchscreen (a 13.4-inch is available) engaged Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Heated and cooled leather front seats, a heated steering wheel, and Bose premium audio elevated the high-end feel on the test model. The oddest feature, however, was a full-time digital rearview mirror. Unlike a backup or sideview camera, the rearview camera stayed on throughout the drive, which proved a bit distracting. Luckily, it can be turned off to return to a traditional mirror.

Pricing starts at $36,795. The as-tested price came to $64,485.

Ford F-250 SRW 4×4 Crew Cab

While a redesign is rumored for 2023, the current model continues to set standards for capability in the segment. Known as heavy duties, Ford prefers to term its three-quarter and one-ton trucks “Super Duty.” Due to the rigors these big trucks face, the F-250 comes in six configurable trim levels for multiple applications. LTR drove the F-250 Lariat 4×4 Crew Cab (four door).

As mentioned, these are working trucks, although more and more are becoming family vehicles too, so capability is king. The F-450 is available with best-in-class maximum gooseneck towing of up to 37,000 pounds. The test model, however, had a max towing of 15,000 lbs. and payload of 3,550 lbs.

There are three available engines, a 6.2-liter V8, a 7.3-liter V8, and the as-tested third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 that delivers best-in-class 475 hp and 1,050 ft.–lbs. of torque. It was matched to an all-new 10-speed heavy-duty TorqShift automatic transmission.

With a 21-inch drop from the front seat, running boards will be essential for low statured folks, which the testmodel did include, as well as adjustable pedals, the ladder in the tailgate as part of the Lariat Ultimate Package ($3,495), and a tailgate drop button for added convenience.

For added confidence when behind the wheel of such a massive vehicle, a blind spot monitor and reverse sensing with a reverse camera were included. The available Pro Trailer Backup Assist also came with the test model for an added $2,730.

The standard FordPass Connect comes with a 4G LTE modem with Wi-Fi access for up to ten devices and charge up with wireless charging and USB-C ports.

As an added perk, the test model included an average fuel efficiency calculator, despite the fact that the EPA does not currently require city and highway fuel economy estimates on its Monroney. That rule may change in 2027. The test model averaged 18.6 mpg.

Pricing starts at $41,240. With $29,815 worth of optional features, including $10,495 for the diesel engine , the as-tested pricing came to $82,245.

Toyota Issues Tundra, Sequoia, and Avalon Recall

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Oct 172018

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia vehicles and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Avalon Hybrid vehicles. The air bag electronic control unit (ECU) may erroneously detect a fault during the vehicle start-up self check. If this occurs, the ECU may not deploy the airbags as intended, in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, “Occupant Crash Protection,” and 214, “Side Impact Protection.”

If the air bags do not deploy as intended, it can increase the risk of injury in a crash. Approximately 168,000 vehicles are involved in this recall.

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the air bag ECU, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 22, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota’s number for this recall is J0X. Owners may check their vehicle’s status by visiting toyota.com/recall and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate information.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

The LTR Second Annual Truck Guide

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Apr 032018

Nissan Titan XD Single Cab

Based in the Lone Star State, home to the top truck market in the country, the Latino Traffic Report (LTR) team appreciates a nice pickup. A voting member of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), LTR’s editor also helps choose the Truck of Texas each year—the Ford F-150 is the current winner. Each year we offer an overview of the trucks we test. Here’s the list for 2018.

GMC Canyon Denali

Denali doesn’t just refer to a mountain in Alaska. It’s also the name of GMC’s top-of-the-line trim and as such, expectations can be high.

GMC returned to the midsize truck market with the 2015 Canyon. It added a diesel engine in 2016 and the Denali trim for 2017. LTR recently tested the 2018 Canyon Denali Crew Cab.

On the outside, a unique chrome grille and 20-inch aluminum wheels distinguish the Canyon Denali. Though they were a nice idea, the standard chrome running boards were unnecessary considering that the Canyon sits lower than a half-ton. All Canyon’s include convenience features like a sidestep in the bumper and a locking tailgate.

Fancy features inside the test model included leather seating with heated and cooled front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a Bose stereo system, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, the GMC Intellilink infotainment system with navigation, and an eight-inch touchscreen.

Capability on the truck came from the 2.8-liter Duramax turbo diesel engine with 181 horsepower and 369 lb.–ft. of torque, matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain has a maximum tow rating of 7,700 lbs. and during the test; the 5.2-foot bed proved to be the right size to carry a lawnmower that needed repair. A 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder is the base engine and a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed manual transmission are also available.

Few trucks can claim bragging rights for fuel economy but the Canyon’s diesel powertrain helps enhance its performance. The two-wheel-drive (2WD) model offers a segment best fuel economy of 31 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway, while the four-wheel-drive (4WD) has an EPA estimated city/highway rating of 20/29 mpg. The 4WD test model achieved a city/highway average fuel economy of 21/25.5 mpg.

GM safety features included signature tech like the rear seat reminder—it chimes when the ignition’s turned off to remind the driver to check the rear seat—Onstar, and Teen Driver. But the lack of a blind spot warning system was a noticeable exclusion, particularly on a Denali.

Pricing for the 2018 Canyon starts at $22,095. The as-tested price of $48,190 included options like the engine and transmission that cost more than $4,000.

Toyota Tundra TRD Pro*

Hecho en San Antonio, Texas, the Toyota Tundra comes in more than four-dozen possible configurations. LTR tested the Tundra Limited with the TRD Pro 4×4 package built for the off-road enthusiast. For 2018, the TRD Sport Package gets new distinctive exterior design cues including a body-color surround for the honeycomb-style grille, 20-inch silver-painted aluminum alloy wheels with black accents, and the TRD Pro bedside graphic.

When it comes to functionality, the test Tundra had a towing capacity of up to 9,800 pounds and payload capacity of up to 1,560 pounds. During the weeklong test, the TRD Pro exhibited that capacity by helping out Cine Las Americas during the nonprofit’s annual film festival, and delivering a truckload of donated Dos Equis. Maximum towing and payload on the Tundra when properly equipped can reach 10,200 and 1,730 pounds, respectively.

All Tundra’s are powered by either of two V8 engines. The test model came with the 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, with 381 horsepower and 401 lb.–ft. of torque matched to a six speed automatic transmission. It had an EPA estimated fuel rating of 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. It averaged 14.7 mpg during the weeklong test.

While most Tundras come with three cab styles and three bed sizes, the TRD Pro is available only in Double Cab and Crew Max models. LTR tested the latter matched to the shorter 5.5-foot bed.

The test drive remained on road, but the TRD Pro did demonstrate its off-road capability at last year’s TAWA Truck Rodeo. Tundra 4X4 models use the electronically controlled 4WDemand part-time 4WD system with 4×2, 4×4 Hi, and 4×4 Lo ranges.

For added climbing ability, the TRD Pro sits two-inches higher than its siblings and lacks running boards. While that enhances ground clearance, it can be hard to climb onboard, especially for the vertically challenged.

All Tundra models come standard with a backup camera, essential equipment on a truck, and Toyota Star Safety is now standard for 2018. The test model added a blind spot monitor and parking sensor as part of the Entune Premium package ($785).

Pricing for the 2018 Tundra starts at $35,395. The as-tested pricing came to $51,589.

RAM 1500 Lone Star

Recognizing the top position that Texas holds in national truck sales, Ram created the Lone Star package in 2002, specifically for the Texas market. Not surprisingly, it’s become the top-selling Ram model in Texas and the Ram 1500 earned the Truck of Texas title for 2013 and 2014 from TAWA.

With eleven possible models, the Lone Star sits in the middle of the lineup along with the Big Horn, so that it includes additional features beyond its distinctive badging, like dual-zone climate control, a front and rear parking sensor, a 60/40-split folding rear bench seat with underseat storage, and fold-flat load floor storage.

The test model, Ram 1500 SLT 4×2, also included welcome features like a rearview camera (standard on all 2018 Rams), and Uconnect infotainment and GPS navigation with an 8.4-inch touchscreen ($795).

Powered by the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine, with 395 horsepower and 410 lb.–ft. of torque, the Ram has an estimated EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 15/22 mpg. It achieved an average fuel economy of 20.3 mpg during the weeklong test drive. The Hemi and eight-speed transmission on the test model added around $2,000 to the price. A 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 and 3.6-liter V6 are also available.

Some folks prefer an open bed on a truck, others like a lid. The test model came with the latter, specifically a three-fold tonneau cover ($595) to shield the 5.7-foot bed. It proved useful while moving my nephew to San Antonio for the summer. The load included cargo that presented a flight risk, even if strapped down, so while the tonneau may limit cargo height, it was perfect for our needs and easy to maneuver. The bed also included the innovative Ram Box Cargo Management System ($1,295).

Towing and payload capacity for the test model topped out at 10,330 and 1,700 lbs., respectively.

While leather seats may reflect a premium status, cloth seats can make more sense on a truck, plus the standard cloth seats on the Lone Star showed some attention to detail.

With a Ram redesign on the horizon for 2019, there’s still time to grab a Ram with the current look, particularly for fans of the crosshair grille.

Pricing for the 2018 Ram starts at $27,990. The as-tested pricing came to $45,760.

Nissan Titan XD Single Cab**

Blazing a new trail in the truck market, Nissan positioned its Titan XD (all-new for 2016) between a half-ton and super duty. It did so by giving it more capability by virtue of its 5.0-liter V8 Cummins turbo diesel engine that produces 310 horsepower and 555 lb.-ft. of torque. The move so impressed TAWA members that it named it the 2016 Truck of Texas. For 2018, a factory-authorized suspension lift kit will be offered on select models of the TITAN and TITAN XD.

The Cummins is matched to a six-speed automatic transmission but a seven-speed automatic is available on the 5.6-liter V8. The unique position the XD holds also excludes it from fuel economy ratings by the EPA but on the test drive, it averaged 14.3 mpg.

Available in three cab configurations, Single, Crew, or King, the Single is the newest and was featured on the test model, as well as an eight-foot bed, one of two available bed sizes on the Titan. Built to appeal to entrepreneurs, the Single Cab earned the TAWA 2017 Commercial Truck of Texas title in 2016. It has a payload capacity of 2,910 lbs., a maximum towing capacity of 12,640 lbs. (when properly equipped), and a super dampened tailgate that practically lifts with one finger.

The understated interior on the test model included cloth seats, a tiny display for the AM/FM/CD stereo. As a single cab, interior storage was limited but there was seat back and underseat storage in the rear.

The test model, Titan XD SV, was also equipped with 4WD, remote keyless entry with push button start, plus the SV Comfort and Convenience Package ($1,360) that added a rear view monitor and parking sensors, dual air conditioning, a blind spot warning system with rear cross traffic alert, running boards, and 20-inch alloy wheels.

All Titan XDs are covered by Nissan’s “America’s Best Truck Warranty” featuring bumper-to-bumper coverage for five-years/100,000-miles, whichever comes first.

Pricing for the 2018 Titan XD Single Cab starts at $33,335. The as-tested pricing came to $46,625.

With redesigns on the way for the Ram, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra, 2019 will be a model year for trucks. A new Truck of Texas could be in the mix.

Note: All prices include destination fees.
*Toyota recently announced separate safety recalls in the United States of approximately 8,800 Model Year 2017 Tundra and approximately 65,000 Model Year 2018 Sequoia and Tundra vehicles. For more information, go to toyota.com/recall and enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Safety Recall inquiry by individual VIN is also available at the NHTSA site: nhtsa.gov/recalls.

**Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Nissan Titan, 2016 and 2018 Nissan Titan XD vehicles. The recall is expected to begin on June 16, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Click here to find past recall notices posted by LTR.

The LTR Annual Truck Guide

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Mar 242016

Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

Thanks to lower gas prices, the light duty truck market has rebounded—the latest figures in the Wall Street Journal show a year-to-date increase of 9.8 percent, 4.4 percent for pickups. Last year saw many new innovations, including an all-new 5.0-liter Cummins diesel that allows the 2016 Nissan Titan XD to straddle the half-ton and heavy-duty segments in capability. Auto writers were so impressed with it that they named it the Truck of Texas for 2015.

The midsize segment also gained attention with the entry of two new models from GM and a redesigned segment leader from Toyota.

Here’s an overview of the trucks that received test drives in 2015 at Latino Traffic Report.

Toyota Tacoma TRD Offroad

Redesigned for 2016, the Tacoma holds the top-selling position in the midsize truck segment. The new version should help keep it there.

Available with two engines, a 2.7-liter four cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6, I drove the latter during the weeklong test drive. Producing 278 horsepower and 265 lbs.–ft. of torque, the V6 also uses Variable Valve Timing with Intelligent Wider Intake for better performance. It was matched to a six-speed automatic but both engines can be matched to manual transmissions.

The TRD is an off-road model but the Tacoma redesign as a whole emphasizes its improved capability. Maximum towing has increased to 6,800 lbs.

All Tacoma 4×4 models are equipped with 4WDemand part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) with an electronically controlled transfer case and Automatic Limited Slip Differential. The TRD Pro I tested included an off-road tuned suspension equipped with Bilstein shocks. For 2017, Toyota will build a TRD Pro version of the Tacoma.

On the inside, the sport grey heated cloth seats with orange accents also offered additional storage under the back bench that lifts up. The test model arrived in the exclusive Inferno exterior color.

Equipped with the Premium and Technology Package ($2,330), the test model added creature comforts like dual-zone climate control, and safety features like a blind spot monitor.

The Tacoma is built at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing in San Antonio.

Pricing for the 2016 Tacoma starts at $24,200. The as-tested pricing came to $37,610.

GMC Canyon 4WD SLE Long Box

With three new entries, 2015 could be called the year of the midsize truck. The 2015 GMC Canyon is the higher end or premium version to its sibling, the Chevy Colorado.

The two available engines, a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6, also offer the segment’s best highway fuel economy of 27 miles per gallon (mpg) for the 2.5-liter two-wheel drive (2WD) and 26 mpg for 3.6-liter 2WD, when properly equipped. I averaged 20.3 mpg with the 3.6-liter 4WD.

On the inside, the Canyon has a more refined interior, distinguished by premium materials and convenience features like air conditioning, power windows and a rearview camera.

What really makes the Canyon standout, however, is OnStar with 4G LTE and the built-in Wi-Fi hotspot mobile hub, available on all but the base model.

The beauty of pickups is their configurability and the Canyon’s no exception with three body styles—an extended cab model with a six-foot two-inch bed, a crew cab with a five-foot two-inch bed, and a crew cab with a six-foot two-inch bed. Borrowing from the Sierra, its larger sibling, the Canyon includes the segment-first CornerStep rear bumper design, plus a dampened liftgate.

It adds versatility with thirteen configurable and four stationary tie-down locations throughout the bed for use with available, removable cargo tie-down rings

The maximum payload can reach 1,620 pounds plus it has the segment’s best trailering rating of 7,000 pounds when properly equipped. For 2016, the Canyon offers a segment first 2.8-liter Duramax turbo diesel for added capability—maximum towing climbs to 7,700 lbs. properly equipped.

Pricing for the 2016 Canyon starts at $21,880. The as-tested price that included the All-Terrain Package came to $38,915.

Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

Redesigned in 2014, the Tundra lineup added an off-road model for 2015, the TRD Pro.

The package includes a suspension upgrade that raises the front of the vehicle two inches for a level ride height. While that may help on an off-road course, it makes climbing into the truck tough, especially for the vertically challenged. A grab handle on the driver’s side would help.

Larger diameter TRD-tuned Bilstein High-Performance shocks further amplify the ride and handling.

Available in three colors, the test model also arrived in the TRD-Pro exclusive shade of Inferno (like the Tacoma TRD Offroad) that begged for a photo against the backdrop of The University of Texas at Austin. It’s brighter than burnt orange but it’ll do.

Sitting on 18-inch TRD black alloy wheels, the TRD’s other unique exterior features include a blacked out grille, bed panel stamping, matte satin black badges, and black headlight bezels.

The TRD Pro makes its presence known with a loud 5.7-liter V8 accentuated by a dual exhaust system and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. The other available V8 on the Tundra is the 4.6-liter i-Force.

The TRD-Pro includes the on-demand, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system to provide 4×2, 4×4 Hi and 4×4 Lo ranges.

Designed in Michigan and California, the Tundra’s also built in the USA at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in San Antonio.

Pricing for the 2016 Tundra starts at $31,145. As-tested pricing for the 2015 Tundra TRD Pro, with a couple extra features like a bed mat and center console storage tray, came to $43,159.

Sierra Denali 1500 4WD

For GMC, Denali stands for luxury and the Sierra Denali 1500 has the stuff and price tag to prove it.

Technology like front and rear park assist, OnStar, and 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot are standard on the Sierra Denali.

Another impressive standard technology, magnetic ride control, enhances ride and handling every millisecond, triggering damping changes via electronically controlled shock absorbers.

Convenience features like heated and cooled leather front seats, a heated steering wheel, Bose stereo, an eight-inch-diagonal Customizable Driver Display, and a factory-installed spray-on bed liner add to its premium status.

Design cues on the outside also distinguish the Denali. A unique chrome grille, 20-inch wheels, a polished stainless steel exhaust outlet, projector-style headlamps with LED signature daytime running lights, and body-color front and rear bumpers accentuate the exterior.

With two available V8 engines, a 5.3- and a 6.2-liter, the test model included the latter matched to the eight-speed automatic transmission, new for 2015.

It should achieve an EPA estimated combined fuel economy of 17 mpg. I managed to get 18.5 mpg. The base model Sierra comes equipped with a 4.3-liter V6 matched to a six-speed transmission.

The Denali may be luxurious but it maintains its capability with a 12,000 maximum tow rating.

Pricing for the 2016 Sierra Denali starts at $52,285. The as-tested price came to $57,820.

Chevrolet Silverado High Country 4WD

In 2014, Chevrolet introduced a new luxury model to the Silverado lineup, the High Country.

Standard features on Chevrolet’s first premium truck include halogen projector headlamps, along with chrome body side moldings, door handles and mirrors, a chrome grille and 20-inch chrome wheels.

For premium trucks, however, the inside is where you really feel it. The High County includes plush saddle brown leather seats with beige piping and heated and cooled perforated premium leather front bucket seats with High Country logos on the headrests.

Standard technology completes the effect with Chevrolet MyLink connectivity on an eight-inch touch screen, Bose premium audio, and front and rear park assist, an essential feature on a truck.

All High Countries come in a four-door or Crew Cab configuration and 4WD or 2WD, and there is a choice between two bed sizes, five feet eight inches or six feet six inches.

Powered by a choice of two V8s, a 5.3- and 6.2-liter, its capability includes a maximum payload of 2,060 pounds and a 12,000-lb. trailering capacity. I drove the powerful 6.2-liter V8 matched to an eight-speed transmission and averaged 17.5 mpg.

Pricing for the 2016 Silverado High Country starts at $50,935. The as-tested price that included options like a rear-seat entertainment system, sunroof, and Premium package with the Safety Alert Seat came to $59.035.

Reviews: 2015 Toyota Tundra 1794

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Jun 112015

Year after year, more trucks are sold in Texas than anywhere else in the country, making Texas the top truck market and the battle over it, pretty fierce.

In a genius move, Toyota opted to build its half-ton entry, the Tundra, in San Antonio in 2006, making it the only Texas-built pickup and Toyota a major employer, bringing more than 2300 jobs to the Alamo city. That number will expand further when Toyota relocates its headquarters to Plano, TX next year.

In 2014, Toyota took it up one more notch by introducing a special edition model, the Tundra 1794, a premium pickup named for the eighteenth century ranch in San Antonio founded by Juan Ignacio de Casanova and upon which the Toyota manufacturing plant currently sits.

On a recent test drive in Austin for Latino Traffic Report, the Tundra 1794 lived up to its position at the top of Toyota’s truck lineup.

For starters, it’s a premium pickup and that means the interior should be plush and this one is. The 1794 comes only in the CrewMax (supersized four-door) configuration giving it seating for five full-size passengers.

Design cues on the inside reflect a western theme with exclusive saddle brown (or more like nice burnt orange for Texas Longhorn fans) premium leather-trimmed seating with embossed leather and ultra-suede accents. Matching soft-touch materials also accent the shift console, the front and rear door trim, and the instrument panel.

Standard features like an AM/FM/CD stereo get upgraded to the Entune Premium JBL stereo with a seven-inch touch screen and navigation. Additionally, the power back window facing the bed, fancy floor mats with the 1794 brand, a tilt-sliding moonroof with sliding shade, and heated and cooled front seats are standard.

Parking in a parking garage made manageable with the back-up camera.

Toyota doesn’t offer a V6 engine on the Tundra, instead a 4.6-liter V8 is considered the standard engine. The 1794, however, comes with an upgrade—the 5.7-liter iForce V8 with 381 horses and 401 lb-ft of torque.

Matched to a six-speed transmission, it has an EPA city/highway estimated fuel economy of 13/17 miles per gallon (mpg). I averaged 16.2 mpg. The powertrain also has a towing capacity of 9,800 lbs. and a maximum payload of nearly 1600 pound in the 5.5-foot bed.

When it comes to safety features, a back-up camera and parking sensor are standard but the blind-spot monitor with rear-cross traffic detection remains a $470 option, even on the 1794. I’d certainly pay the extra price for these features, especially on a truck.

Pricing for the 2015 Tundra 1794 starts at $46,120. The as-tested price, which included the 4×4 configuration and a few other options like the blind-spot monitor, came to $49,715.

Sí: Attention to details and premium features make the Tundra 1794 competitive in its segment.

No: The blind-spot monitor should be standard on a top-of-the-line truck.