While the MotoIQ team are the first to admit that they are not truck folk, as race car people and formidable tuners they have a real need for a reliable towing machine. Based on the recommendation of a trusted associate, the crew decided that the Toyota Tundra was the right truck to get the job done after experiencing the limitations of several other tow-vehicles. With deep technical expertise on hand at MotoIQ, you can bet that they’ll be putting in a lot of work on the Tundra in order to make sure that the truck can put in heavy work on the road.

Check out MotoIQ’s Project Toyota Tundra article for an in depth look. Part one is already complete!

Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com

Successfully striking a balance between power and efficiency, Toyota is offering a new mid-grade V-8 for the 2010 Tundra. This 4.6-liter V-8 produces a healthy 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque. With increased efficiency under the hood, coupled with the installation of a six-speed automatic transmission, the mid-grade Tundra boasts impressive fuel economy – an estimated 15 city mpg and 20 highway mpg. Starting with a base price of $25,158, this smooth-driving dual-purpose truck with surprising Lexus-like quietness is a value that is hard to beat.

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Image Source: Car and Driver

Taking a complete 180 degree turn from its hybrid focus, Toyota is making a supercharged version of its Tundra. This supercharged behemoth will be capable of producing 504-hp and 550 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and a ¼ mile time of only 13.5 seconds. With a fuel economy of 14/18 mpg before modifications and a testing price of $42,502, this truck is built specifically for those guys who just can’t seem to show enough masculinity.

2009 Toyota Tundra

2009 GMC Sierra 1500

We put two hot sellers in the pick up truck category – the 2009 Toyota Tundra and the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 head to head. Here’s what we found.

Utility

Both the 2009 Toyota Tundra and 2009 GMC Sierra come with three cab styles featuring three different bed lengths – making a wide array of configurations. With over 10000 lbs towing ability, the Tundra is the perfect choice for heavy haulers, besting the Sierra 1500 by 1500lbs.

Power & Performance

Though Toyota and GMC both offer powerful V6 and V8 engine that make use of E85 ethanol blended fuel, GM excels in fuel efficiency by implementing Active Fuel Management Technology. The Sierra calls the shots with a 15/21/17 mpg EPA rating, besting Tundra’s 13/17/15 mpg.

Ride & Handling

While the 2009 Tundra is one of the fastest trucks on the road, the 2009 Sierra’s multiple suspensions deliver easier handling and a smoother ride.

Style & Comfort

Tundra offers an extremely stylish interior with comfy seats and ample room for passengers as well as cargo. Nevertheless, GMC Sierra is comparably equipped with an attractive dashboard, comfortable seats and an ergonomic interior to make your ride more enjoyable.

If your focus is on exterior and interior styling and standard luxury features, the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 is your pick. But if you are looking for a complete package of power, towing capability, riding comfort, handling and safety, the 2009 Toyota Tundra is the best buy.

Image: autos.aol.com

On the outside, the Tundra Platinum Edition features a billet-style grille with chrome bumpers, distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels, power mirrors, daytime running lights and door sill protectors with a Platinum logo and badge. Colors vary from black to slate, silver and salsa red.

Inside the cab, the Platinum Package brings together a host of topnotch luxury features, including a power memory driver’s seat, puddle lamps, power tilt, sliding moon-roof and a telescoping steering wheel. Perforated-leather covered seats with headrests and sophisticated wood trimmed knobs and switch plates give the cab an opulent feel.

The Platinum Package costs an additional $5,100 with respect to Tundra’s base price.

Have a look at 2010 Tundra Platinum Edition:

Front View	Dashboard
Navigation System	Front Seat
Rear Seat	Folding Rear Seat

Image : Trucktrend.com

The 2009 Toyota Tundra is a perfect combination of technical features married with luxury and comfort. Minor additions such as standard ABS and a flared-fender cargo bed have made a remarkable improvement in the pickup’s overall performance.

The well-balanced and compact 2009 Toyota Tundra is a real joy to drive. Starting price is $22, 490.