2020 Toyota Tundra vs 2021 Toyota Tundra

The 2020 Toyota Tundra was available in three models in Canada: SR, SR5, and Platinum. The SR5 trim offered a variety of package configurations, including SX, TRD Off-road, and TRD Pro, among others. The Platinum model could be enhanced with a 1794 Edition package. As one moved up the trim levels, the Tundra became more luxurious. It came in Double Cab and CrewMax styles, with three bed lengths depending on the cab and trim. Prices started at an MSRP of $40,650, reaching up to $63,190 before additional charges. The TRD Pro CrewMax, the most expensive version, featured a 4WD drivetrain and was available in an exclusive Army Green colour. It had a rugged appearance with black 18-inch forged aluminum wheels. Inside, the TRD Pro was equipped with black leather seats with red stitching and embroidery, though the interior was criticized for its industrial-grade plastic.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra had a somewhat awkward appearance compared to newer trucks, with a massive grille and small headlights. Despite its dated design, the Tundra looked modern with its Cement paint colour and blacked-out wheels. The cabin, while dated, had contemporary elements and was user-friendly, with all controls within easy reach. The Tundra's interior was not luxurious but was updated with a standard 7-inch infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In Canada, the Tundra was available in Double Cab and CrewMax models, with various packages like TRD Offroad and TRD Sport Premium. The CrewMax SR5 with the Trail Special Edition package was tested, featuring unique styling elements. The TRD Off-road packages offered enhancements like Bilstein shocks and LED headlamps, while the TRD Pro package included a lift, Fox shocks, and a TRD exhaust. The Platinum trim had unique badging and features like heated and ventilated seats.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra was powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. It had a maximum towing capacity of 4,536 kilograms and a payload capacity of 784 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The TRD Pro model featured BBS forged aluminum wheels, Fox off-road shocks, and a TRD-tuned dual exhaust system. The V8 engine provided robust power, and the transmission was smooth. The Tundra handled well on highways but was noisy at higher speeds. Fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an average consumption of 16.4 L/100 km.

For 2021, the Tundra continued with the 5.7-litre V8 engine, now the only option after the discontinuation of the 4.6-litre V8. It produced 391 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 4,400 kilograms and a payload capacity of 599 kilograms. The six-speed automatic transmission was responsive, and the V8 provided strong acceleration. The Tundra was comfortable on various surfaces, with stable handling on highways. The steering was vague at low speeds but improved at higher speeds.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra, built in Texas, had a spacious interior, especially in the CrewMax model. The rear seating area was large, and the front seats were comfortable for long drives. Storage was abundant, though the glove compartment was small. The Tundra's bed was basic, lacking features like locking storage wells or step ladders.

The 2021 Tundra offered two cab sizes and three bed sizes. The Double Cab had conventionally-opening rear doors and was available with two bed lengths. The CrewMax, with a 1.695-metre bed, provided ample legroom for rear passengers. The front seats had plenty of space, and the centre console was large, with multiple storage options.

The 2020 Tundra's infotainment system, though surrounded by hard plastic, was up-to-date with a 7-inch or 8-inch display, depending on the trim. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB ports. The TRD Pro trim featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. However, the system lacked advanced towing technology.

In 2021, the Tundra's infotainment system was updated with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with hard buttons for easy operation. The Tundra came with a standard seven-speaker stereo, with an available 12-speaker JBL system.

The 2020 Tundra came with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including features like a pre-collision system and dynamic radar cruise control. However, its crash-test performance was lacking, with poor ratings in small-overlap frontal-impact tests. The NHTSA gave it favourable ratings, with 5 stars for side-impact protection.

In 2021, the Tundra continued with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite as standard, offering advanced safety features. It also included eight airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. Optional features included parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.