2022 Tundra Hybrid Rumors

2022 marks the first-ever release of a Toyota Tundra Hybrid. A new i-FORCE Max powertrain will power this new addition to the well-respected Tundra family. The combo of the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 gas engine and an electric motor will deliver 437 horsepower and 583 foot-pounds of torque with the aid of a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Battery Boost

The electric motor will draw power from 288-volt Nickle-Metal-Hydride batteries located under the rear seats. As with all hybrid vehicles, the electric motor will function typically at low speeds of up to around 18 miles per hour, while the gasoline engine will be operating at all times. However, the big perk of this booster-type electric motor is that the Tundra Hybrid is expected to offer around 30 mpg. That is a substantial increase over the estimated 20 mpg combined for the pure gasoline engine Tundra.

Some New Tech

The new Tundra is getting much attention for the latest info tech joining the hybrid technology in the Tundra lineup. The massive new 14-inch touchscreen that replaces the 8-inch version is getting the most attention as it feels more like using a tablet to make selections ranging from entertainment to navigation. In addition, Toyota is launching a cloud-based infotainment system to provide drivers with more current information about nearby destinations. Added information will include the hours of operation, menu, services offered, and ratings rather than just name and location. The cloud-based service will also function as a virtual assistant with increased capabilities to answer any questions you might have that can be answered via an Internet query.

Taking The Tundra Hybrid On The Road

Early test drivers have described the Tundra Hybrid as a truck with plenty of torque and quicker and smoother than the all-gas version. They also liked the quieter ride and relaxed driving experience that is typical of a hybrid. However, they also noted that drivers would need to become accustomed to the added stopping power of the brake system. The regenerative braking feature adds to the brakes’ stopping power, so a lighter touch was needed to come to a smooth and gentle stop. But this is a skill required to operate any hybrid vehicle, not just the Tundra Hybrid.

The Tundra’s display could be considered limited if you have driven other hybrid vehicles with extensive power flow and energy regeneration graphics. However, it displays all of the info needed without creating a distraction for drivers. The one feature that is lacking in the 2022 model is an all EV mode. However, it is not known if this will be a feature on future models of the Tundra Hybrid.

Overall, the 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid impressed drivers on and off-road as well as when towing. And the increase in blended fuel economy of nearly 50% is a feature that makes the Tundra Hybrid a highly desirable choice for many drivers.

Visit the Tundra Hybrid experts at Toyota of Scranton, near Glenburn and Chinchilla, to learn more about this exceptional new option.