Toyota Tundra 2022: Overland Ready or Just a Trail-Tease?

Breaking Down the Third-Gen 2022 Toyota Tundra

The 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra is one of the most popular vehicles for overland travel. It checks all the boxes with a reliable drivetrain, comfortable size, long production run, and plenty of aftermarket support. When Toyota announced that the Tundra would be redesigned for 2022, we wondered if it would live up to the Tundra name.

Spoiler about Toyota Tundra 2022

The second-generation Toyota Tundra had a production run of 15 years from 2007 to 2021, which is nearly unheard of today. The truck addressed US customers’ complaints that the first generation Tundra was too small and underpowered with a big size increase, both for the body and for the engine under the hood. Along the way, the second-gen Tundra became a legendary overland vehicle for its reliability, payload capacity, and comfortable layout. Enthusiasts and aftermarket manufacturers alike embraced the platform, making it one of the most popular vehicles in the backcountry. So when Toyota announced the third-generation Tundra, it had big shoes to fill.

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How would it measure up against the previous Tundra?

The crew at Total Chaos Fabrication was quick to get their hands on the new Tundra to develop new suspension products. The company is very familiar with the previous generation and offers upper control arms, lower control arms, King shocks tuned to its specifications, and more for the 2007-2021 Tundra. They didn’t waste any time in making similar products for the new Tundra.

“Total Chaos has built a Tundra that builds upon the truck’s strengths without completely changing the feel of the vehicle. This is the suspension that new Tundras should come with from the factory.”

Their in-house truck has tubular upper control arms and chromoly plate lower control arms with 3-inch diameter King coilovers. The Total Chaos control arms use 1-inch uniballs that are significantly stronger and have a wider range of motion than the factory ball joints. The uniballs in the upper control arms allow for 1 inch of extra suspension travel when paired with the appropriate length coilovers. The King shocks fit that bill and are custom valved to Total Chaos’ specifications. They provide up to 2 inches of lift to fit 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires, have internal bypass technology (IBP) to prevent harsh bottoming, and use compression adjuster knobs that allow the ride to be customized to the terrain and the driver’s preference.

Huge 3-inch-diameter King shocks provide control in the roughest of terrain. Total Chaos upper and lower control arms provide the necessary space for the larger-diameter shocks and are designed to return the caster to factory specifications with the lifted suspension.

While the front suspension of the new Tundra is similar to the previous generation, the third generation ditched the rear leaf springs for coil springs located by four control arms and a track bar, similar to what you would find on a 4Runner or Land Cruiser. Factory rear coils retain the smooth ride and are paired with another set of King 3-inch-diameter shocks with internal bypasses, compression adjusters, and custom valving. The factory control arms were replaced with Total Chaos chromoly links that feature urethane bushings at the axle end for better on- and off-road control and handling. This kit allows you to firm up the ride and reduce some of the flex and vibration that is common with the factory rubber bushings. At the frame end, 1-inch stainless steel uniballs are used to provide additional wheel travel. The links are adjustable to allow the wheelbase and pinion angle to be fine tuned for any ride height.

“The Toyota Tundra 2022 picks up where the last generation left off, with plenty of power and payload capacity now combined with a more modern suspension and interior.”

The 5.7L i-FORCE V-8 engine used in the last generation Tundra made big power, but it had a reputation for being thirsty, particularly when larger tires and more weight was added to the vehicle. The new Tundra uses a 3.4L twin turbo V-6 engine that makes similar horsepower but 20% more torque. The turbo engine is also backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission that has a lower first gear (4.92 versus 3.33) for more torque multiplication on the trail, and a taller overdrive (0.61 versus 0.73) that keeps the RPM down on the freeway and contributes to better fuel economy. Total Chaos has left the drivetrain in their new Tundra stock to maximize reliability.

Stock-length control arms were used to keep the track width the same as stock, allowing the Tundra to fit down relatively narrow trails when compared to larger vehicles. The Total Chaos Expedition Series lower control arms are 100% bolt-on, constructed from 4130 chromoly steel, and upgrade ball joints to a 1-inch stainless steel uniball to maximize strength.

The front differential on the new Toyota Tundra 2022 is the same high pinion 9-inch ring gear and clamshell design as the previous generation, but the factory gear ratio is now way higher at 3.31 instead of 4.10. This is offset by the lower first gear in the transmission and aids in both strength of the pinion and in fuel economy. Interestingly, the auto differential disconnect (ADD) is performed in the differential on the new Tundra rather than on the long side axle shaft. This makes us wonder if the system could be modified to function as a selectable front locker. Out back, the rear axle actually got smaller in the new Tundra, with a ring gear reduction from 10.5 inches to 9.5 inches. To put this in perspective, the venerable 14-bolt rear axle that came in one-ton trucks had a 10.5-inch ring gear, so it was considered overkill in the Tundra. The 9.5-inch axle is not new though; it has been used in the 200 Series Land Cruiser for years and enjoys aftermarket support with several gearing and locking differential options.

In its testing, King found that the bushings in the factory Tundra control arms provided enough deflection to negatively impact handling. Total Chaos addressed that by replacing the rubber bushings with urethane bushings to provide better handling on-road and off.

Even though the wheelbase for the second- and third-generation Tundras is exactly the same (145.7/164.6 inches for shortbed/longbed). The length of the Toyota Tundra 2022 is 4.7 inches greater (233.6/252.5 inches for shortbed/longbed), and most of the length was added up front to accommodate the intercooler for the turbocharged engine. This has resulted in decreased approach angle (21 versus 26 degrees), but the Total Chaos suspension and 35-inch tall BFGoodrich tires remedied that issue. The new Tundra is only 0.3 inches wider than the previous model, and the track width increased by 0.5 inches. The cab height is 2 inches taller for increased head room, but the bed depth actually decreased by 1.1 inches. We see this as a trade off, the shallower bed makes it easier to access items over the side, but it is tougher to fit cargo under a tonneau cover. One of the biggest complaints about the Toyota Tundra 2022 is the turning radius, which is 10% worse than the second-gen Tundra (48.6 feet versus 44 feet).

The first thing that you notice on the third-gen Tundra is the giant grille, which people either love or hate. A taller stance and larger tires definitely balance the look of the grille, and some owners have added an aftermarket bumper to improve approach angle and make the bumper look smaller.

As noted above, dimensions are pretty close to the previous generation truck, and we are grateful for the large wheel well openings that allow for fitment of larger tires without the need to chop the cab mount.

The new Tundra shares very few components with the previous generation toyota pickup truck, inside and out. Seat comfort and interior noise levels are vastly improved, and the Tundra is a pleasant Toyota pickup truck for covering long distances for both front and rear passengers. The new Tundra is available in SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims, and each is differentiated by unique interior details. The SR and SR5 have rugged appearances, whereas Limited and Platinum get more refined looks. The 1794 is the most luxurious, while the TRD Pro is off-road oriented. The upgraded touchscreen is loaded with a high-resolution display and brings quicker responses to user inputs, and the wireless Apple CarPlay integration is really useful.

Only time will tell if the new third generation Tundra will live up to the reputation of its predecessor, but we already know that these trucks are powerful and capable, and the aftermarket has been quick to embrace them with options for the suspension and accessories such as bumpers, wheels, bed racks, and more. As dealers catch up with demand, we expect to see more new Tundras on the trails in the near future.

The big grille on the front of the Tundra provides plenty of room for added lumens from Baja Designs lights. A combo of Squadron, S8, and S2 lights were added to provide ample light for any situation.

The engine in the Tundra was left stock for reliability and to maintain the factory warranty. We like that the battery was moved to the firewall on the new Tundra, rather than having all of the weight out over the sheetmetal in the front corner, as was the case on the previous generation Toyota Tundra truck.

The second-gen Tundra got revamped in 2014, but the interior was still dated. The new interior uses an 8-inch touchscreen display, with higher trim models getting a huge 14-inch display. Our only gripe is the chunky A-pillars that hinder visibility on the trail.

There isn’t a lot of extra room under the hood of the new Tundra, but fortunately, the solid state power control module of the sPOD doesn’t take up much room. The wiring controls the host of auxiliary lights and an inverter, with the switch panel mounted overhead, making it easily reachable for the driver.

The most common configuration of the Tundra is the double cab with a 5.5-foot bed, which is small enough to still park in daily driving but large enough to camp out of on extended outings. Wedge campers, drawers, and bed racks are already available for the third-gen Tundra, but Total Chaos kept this truck simple.

The Total Chaos and King suspension components make the Tundra a lot of fun in the dunes, with plenty of power on tap. The addition of more intrusive stability control is the only downside relative to the previous generation, and you have to shut it off to allow for wheel spin in the sand or other loose conditions.

UPGRADES

2022 Toyota Tundra

Engine: 3.4L Twin-Turbo V-6
Suspension: Total Chaos upper and lower control arms, 3.0 King IBP coilover shocks (front), Total Chaos suspension links, factory coil springs, King 3.0 bypass shocks (rear)
Wheels & Tires: 35×12.50R17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2s on 17×8.5 Method 703 Trail Series wheels
Armor: Factory TRD skid plate
Interior Accessories: sPOD switches
Exterior Accessories: Baja Designs S8, Squadron, and S2 lights
Additional Modifications: None at this time

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does the 2022 Tundra’s towing technology enhance towing experience?

Elevating the Towing Experience with the 2022 Tundra

The 2022 Tundra’s towing technology takes the stress out of hauling, offering a seamless experience with its advanced features.

Effortless Trailer Connection

Equipped with precision sensors and high-definition cameras, the Tundra simplifies the process of hitching your trailer. This technology provides clear guidance, ensuring a perfect alignment every time, minimizing the need for repeated adjustments.

Seamless Backing Up

Once the trailer is attached, keeping it steady as you reverse is remarkably easy. The Tundra’s intelligent system maintains your trailer’s straight path, reducing the risk of swaying or jackknifing. This allows for smoother maneuvers even in tight spaces.

Enhanced Safety Features

The integration of driver assistance systems ensures a safer towing experience. Alerts and real-time feedback help you stay aware of your surroundings, so you can focus on the road ahead with confidence.

Experience these innovations that collectively transform towing into a safer, more efficient task—ensuring peace of mind on every journey.

What advanced off-road technologies are available in the 2022 Tundra?

“Bring on the rocks, mud, and sand with confidence. The 2022 Tundra is equipped with cutting-edge off-road technologies, including the Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) and Crawl Control (CRAWL) 160, ensuring that no obstacle stands in the way of your adventure. These features are designed to tackle a variety of terrains by optimizing traction and maintaining control, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the ride.

In addition to these advanced systems, the Total Chaos control arms use 1-inch uniballs that are significantly stronger and have a wider range of motion than the factory ball joints. The uniballs in the upper control arms allow for 1 inch of extra suspension travel when paired with the appropriate length coilovers. The King shocks fit that bill and are custom valved to Total Chaos’ specifications. They provide up to 2 inches of lift to fit 35-inch BFGoodrichAll-Terrain KO2 tires, have internal bypass technology (IBP) to prevent harsh bottoming, and use compression adjuster knobs that allow the ride to be customized to the terrain and the driver’s preference.

Huge 3-inch-diameter King shocks provide control in the roughest of terrain. Total Chaos upper and lower control arms provide the necessary space for the larger-diameter shocks and are designed to return the caster to factory specifications with the lifted suspension.

With a combination of factory-installed features and expertly engineered enhancements, the 2022 Tundra is ready to conquer any terrain, offering both reliability and performance for off-road enthusiasts.

How does the 2022 Tundra handle different types of challenging terrains?

The Tundra is equipped to tackle various challenging terrains, including rocks, mud, and sand, thanks to its advanced off-road technologies like MTS and Crawl Control, which help manage and overcome obstacles effectively.

What interior features contribute to the comfort and convenience of the 2022 Tundra?

The new Tundra shares very few components with the previous generation Toyota pickup truck, inside and out. Seat comfort and interior noise levels are vastly improved, making it a pleasant vehicle for covering long distances for both front and rear passengers. The new Tundra is available in SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims, each differentiated by unique interior details.

SR and SR5: These trims boast rugged appearances, perfect for those who enjoy an adventurous aesthetic.
Limited and Platinum: These trims offer more refined looks with premium materials that elevate the driving experience.
1794: The most luxurious option, offering an opulent interior with top-of-the-line finishes.
TRD Pro: Specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring robust and durable interior elements.

The interior of the Tundra features available leather-trimmed and soft-touch materials throughout. For added comfort, the front seats can be equipped with heating and ventilation options—ideal for those wild rides through varying climates.

A standout feature is the power vertical rear window, a signature element that allows the rear glass to raise and fully lower with the push of a button. This not only makes it easier to grab your gear but also gives your four-legged friend a better view during the journey.

The upgraded touchscreen, equipped with a high-resolution display, enhances user experience with quicker responses to inputs. The wireless Apple CarPlay integration is particularly useful, providing seamless connectivity without the clutter of cables.

What convenience features does the rear window have?

The rear window can be raised and lowered entirely with the touch of a button, adding convenience for accessing gear and improving the view for passengers, including pets.

What features are available for seat comfort?

The front seats come with optional heating and ventilation capabilities, offering maximum comfort during any ride.

What materials are used in the interior for comfort?

The interior is enhanced with premium leather-trimmed and soft-touch materials, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious feel throughout the cabin.

How do the TRD Pro’s tires and wheels contribute to off-road performance?

How Do the TRD Pro’s Tires and Wheels Enhance Off-Road Performance?

The TRD Pro is engineered for superior off-road adventures, and its tires and wheels play a crucial role in delivering that performance.

Sturdy and Lightweight Wheels
The high-strength 18-inch alloy wheels are designed to be both robust and lightweight. Their construction allows for durable performance on rugged terrains while maintaining agility and maneuverability.

Enhanced Traction Tires
Wrapped around these wheels are Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires, which are specifically designed to maximize grip on various surfaces. This ensures that whether you’re navigating rocky paths or muddy trails, your vehicle maintains optimal traction.

By combining resilient wheels with specialized tires, the TRD Pro excels in providing a reliable and stable off-road experience.

What type of shocks are used in the TRD Pro’s suspension?

Discover the Shocks in TRD Pro’s Suspension

The TRD Pro’s suspension system is equipped with high-performance off-road shocks. These shocks are crafted to offer outstanding versatility, providing exceptional performance whether you’re navigating rocky trails, speeding through desert landscapes, or commuting on paved roads.

Key Features:

Enhanced Off-Road Capabilities: Engineered to handle rugged terrains with ease.
Smooth On-Road Experience: Maintains stability and comfort during everyday drives.
Adaptability: Suitable for various driving conditions, making your rides smooth and controlled.

These shocks are integral to delivering the ideal balance of durability and comfort, ensuring your vehicle can tackle any adventure.

What advanced off-road technologies are available with the truck?

“The Total Chaos control arms use 1-inch uniballs that are significantly stronger and have a wider range of motion than the factory ball joints. The uniballs in the upper control arms allow for 1 inch of extra suspension travel when paired with the appropriate length coilovers. The King shocks fit that bill and are custom valved to Total Chaos’ specifications. They provide up to 2 inches of lift to fit 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires, have internal bypass technology (IBP) to prevent harsh bottoming, and use compression adjuster knobs that allow the ride to be customized to the terrain and the driver’s preference.

Advanced Off-Road Technologies

Bring on the rocks, mud, and sand with confidence. The truck is equipped with cutting-edge technologies that enhance its off-road performance. Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) allows you to switch between different driving modes tailored for diverse terrains, ensuring optimal traction and control. Crawl Control (CRAWL) takes over in challenging conditions, maintaining a steady pace over rugged landscapes, so you can focus on steering without the need to modulate the throttle or brakes.

What multimedia features are included in the truck?

The upgraded touchscreen is loaded with a high-resolution display and brings quicker responses to user inputs, and the wireless Apple CarPlay integration is really useful. With a 14-inch audio multimedia touchscreen, you’re getting one of the largest displays available in its segment. This expansive screen not only enhances your viewing experience but also allows you to control and connect to your tech seamlessly.

Stay connected on the go with wireless smartphone compatibility. Enjoy the convenience of using your favorite iPhone apps with Apple CarPlay, or connect your Android device for Android Auto compatibility, all without the hassle of wires. Whether you’re navigating through city streets or embarking on a new adventure, these features ensure your tech is always at your fingertips.

How does the touchscreen enhance user experience?

The touchscreen provides an advanced user experience by enabling you to easily view, manage, and connect with your technology in an intuitive manner.

What are the connectivity options for smartphones?

The system supports wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone.

What is the size of the touchscreen?

The truck is equipped with a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, offering one of the largest displays in its category.

How does the truck’s multimedia touchscreen enhance connectivity?

The upgraded touchscreen is loaded with a high-resolution display and brings quicker responses to user inputs, and the wireless Apple CarPlay integration is really useful. With its expansive 14-inch size, this multimedia touchscreen stands out as one of the largest in its class, offering an enhanced viewing experience that makes navigating your tech easier than ever.

Enhanced Connectivity

Wireless Smartphone Integration: Enjoy the convenience of wirelessly connecting your smartphone. Whether you’re an iPhone® user tapping into Apple CarPlay® or an Android™ enthusiast utilizing Android Auto™, this feature ensures a seamless, cable-free connection.
Intuitive Control: The touchscreen’s responsive interface allows for effortless control, making it simple to access your favorite apps and features while keeping your focus on the road.

This combination of advanced features not only boosts connectivity but also heightens user interaction, ensuring that you stay connected on every drive.

What benefits do these connectivity features provide?

These features enable drivers to safely access their favorite smartphone apps on the go, enhancing both convenience and safety.

What are the connectivity options for smartphones?

It supports wireless connections for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing versatile smartphone integration.

What segment is the touchscreen part of?

The touchscreen stands out as one of the largest options available within its market segment.

What is the size of the touchscreen?

The vehicle features a substantial 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, offering enhanced visibility and usability.

What features are available in the truck’s interior for comfort and convenience?

The new Tundra is available in SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims, and each is differentiated by unique interior details. The SR and SR5 have rugged appearances, whereas Limited and Platinum get more refined looks. The 1794 is the most luxurious, while the TRD Pro is off-road oriented.

Panoramic Moonroof

With just the touch of a button, the panoramic moonroof opens wide, offering a stunning view of the sky and adding an airy feel to your drive. This feature elevates the driving experience, inviting the outside world in.

Tailored Cabin

Inside, the Tundra boasts a premium interior with available leather-trimmed and soft-touch materials throughout. The available heated and ventilated front seats ensure maximum comfort, whether you’re navigating city streets or venturing into the wilderness.

Power Vertical Rear Window

The signature power vertical rear window can be raised or fully lowered with a simple button push. This is perfect for easy access to your gear in the back or giving your four-legged companion a better view.

The upgraded touchscreen is loaded with a high-resolution display and brings quicker responses to user inputs, and the wireless Apple CarPlay integration is really useful. These tech features ensure that you stay connected while keeping your focus on the road ahead.

How does the rear window operate, and what convenience does it offer?

The rear window is powered to move up or down entirely with the push of a button, making it easy to access gear or provide a better view for pets.

Are there any special features for the seats?

Yes, the front seats are available with heating and ventilation options, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.

What materials are used in the truck’s interior for comfort?

The interior is adorned with premium materials, including leather trims and soft-touch surfaces, enhancing comfort for all passengers.

What kind of sunroof does the truck have?

The truck features a panoramic moonroof that opens with the touch of a button, providing an expansive view of the surroundings.

What features make the TRD Pro version of the truck suitable for off-road adventures?

“The new Tundra is available in SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims, and each is differentiated by unique interior details. The SR and SR5 have rugged appearances, whereas Limited and Platinum get more refined looks. The 1794 is the most luxurious, while the TRD Pro is off-road oriented.

TRD Pro: Built for Adventure

The TRD Pro trim is crafted for those who love exploring the great outdoors. It features robust 18-inch BBS® forged alloy wheels paired with all-terrain tires, ensuring enhanced traction on challenging paths. The truck’s off-road suspension is equipped with rugged FOX® shocks, providing the perfect balance between off-road prowess and on-road comfort.

Advanced Off-Road Technology

For those tricky trails, the TRD Pro comes standard with Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) and Crawl Control (CRAWL), allowing drivers to navigate obstacles with ease. These features adapt the truck’s performance to varying terrains, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.

Distinctive Design Elements

The TRD Pro’s grille, accented by an integrated LED light bar, not only enhances its bold appearance but also improves visibility during nighttime expeditions. This makes a statement that the truck is ready to conquer any off-road challenge.

Protection and Durability

With a TRD aluminum skid plate, the TRD Pro offers added protection, safeguarding vital components from rugged terrain. This ensures the truck can withstand the rigors of off-road driving while maintaining its durability.

The Tundra TRD Pro is not just a truck; it’s a gateway to unforgettable adventures, designed to tackle the wild with confidence and style.”

How do the wheels and tires contribute to off-road capability?

The strong yet lightweight forged alloy wheels paired with all-terrain tires enhance traction and durability, making the TRD Pro adept at handling off-road conditions.

What kind of suspension system does the TRD Pro use?

The suspension system includes rugged shocks designed for optimal performance on rough terrains while maintaining stability on regular roads.

What design elements make the TRD Pro stand out?

The grille features a distinctive design with an integrated LED light bar, marking its off-road prowess and setting it apart in style and functionality.

How does the TRD Pro handle different terrains?

It incorporates Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control systems, enabling it to navigate various off-road environments with ease, ensuring that obstacles don’t hinder your adventures.

What are the specific off-road features of the TRD Pro?

The TRD Pro is equipped with features like 18-inch forged alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, an off-road suspension with specialized shocks, and an aluminum skid plate designed to tackle challenging trails.