2010 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 4x4 First Test

For 2010, the Toyota Tundra gets a new, smaller engine. That's actually good news, because the slightly smaller 4.6-liter V-8 that replaces the aging 4.7 makes more power and more torque while using less gas in the process. This new engine is complemented by a six-speed transmission, which has an unusually low first-gear ratio and a reasonably tall sixth gear for easy cruising.

The new 4.6-liter engine is rated at 310 horsepower, developing 327 pound-feet of torque at 3400 rpm. With the new engine, the Tundra's fuel economy is 13 city/18 highway (4WD) and 15/20 (RWD). These numbers compare favorably with the outgoing 4.7 V-8's ratings of 13/16 (4WD) and 14/17 (RWD) and 276 horsepower with 313 pound-feet of torque. Both engines make peak torque at 3400 rpm, but the 4.6 revs about 200 rpm higher to hit peak horsepower. Still, it seems clear the new V-8 will be a welcome upgrade from the 4.7, which has been around almost 10 years now. Switching from a cast-iron block to aluminum helped reduce weight, shedding about 65 pounds compared with the outgoing 4.7-liter.

Toyota has achieved these improvements by applying technology developed for the optional powerplant, the 5.7-liter V-8. That includes addition of dual VVT-i, which can electronically control intake and exhaust valve timing for optimized performance at low and higher rpm. Dual VVT-i also provides timing flexibility that allows for a cleaner-burning engine, which in turn translates into mileage efficiency. Compression has been increased slightly for more power, and with a shorter stroke, the 4.6 revs a little better than the old 4.7. Another state-of-the-art feature in the 4.6 is water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation, which helps regulate combustion temperatures to keep the catalytic converter working more efficiently. It's primarily an emissions strategy, but it does save a bit of fuel in the process, especially when the engine is operating at light throttle.

We noticed a few changes in the 2010 Tundra SR5 we tested, but they're not conspicuous. The 2010 grille has one fewer bar and the remaining bars are thicker, and the front valance has also been changed. From the rear, the taillight cluster looks a little more modern. The headlights are now manually adjustable in five steps, and stereos have been upgraded.