More powerful Toyota Tundra revealed

Toyota USA has announced the availability of a new TRD Performance Package for the 2024 Toyota Tundra in North America as of early next year, bumping the full-size pick-up’s power output from 325kW to 350kW while simultaneously broadening the torque band.

That starting power figure belongs to the Tundra’s full-fat i-FORCE Max powertrain – the only one we’ll get in Australia in 2025 – but the kit will also be applicable to the lesser i-FORCE powertrain, in which it boosts power from 286kW to 309kW.

Neither mill scores any extra peak torque from the package, but Toyota says the identical torque curves have both been broadened, with maximum twisting force – 790Nm for the i-FORCE Max, 649Nm for the i-FORCE – now on tap from 2000rpm instead of 2400rpm.

The gains come courtesy of a new high-flow induction set-up, a freer-flowing exhaust system and new ECU software, however, the package does require a minimum of 91 RON ‘premium’ unleaded (in the US) to deliver its full potential, as opposed to the usual 87 RON.

Other tweaks include sharper throttle response and a couple of cosmetic enhancements to advertise the extra firepower, namely some exclusive exterior badging and unique exhaust outlets.

“We wanted to build on the excitement of the new Tundra platform and the twin-turbo engine – which already makes monster horsepower and torque – to develop this performance package,” Toyota Motor Sales USA senior engineering manager Jakin Wilson said.

With the Tundra not set to enter Toyota’s Australian showrooms until at least 2025, following an extended local right-hand drive prototype development and test program, it’s unclear if Aussie truck buyers will be able to specify the package on vehicles sold here. Toyota has a standing policy of not commenting on future product.

If the TRD Performance Package does end up being offered here it will absolutely throw a cat among the pigeons, given the Tundra is already set to outstrip all of its rivals – including the RAM 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and new Ford F-150 – for both power and torque, and the TRD power pack or its equivalent would increase that advantage.

The Toyota Tundra’s i-FORCE and i-FORCE Max powertrains are both based around a 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6, however, the latter is boosted by the addition of a series hybrid system – hence its rival-busting outputs.

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