It seems as though there has existed a time-honored tradition for automakers to manufacture pick-up trucks with a very limited appeal. Often marketed and lauded for their towing capacity, these vehicles exude pure masculinity. They have built a reputation for unabated strength, yet so many are difficult to handle, feel unstable through bends, and lack interior comfort. In fact, some of our content writers felt averse to driving a pick-up truck.
Until our visit to Leith Toyota on Capital Boulevard.
The 2014 Toyota Tundra Crew Max, while still boasting prodigious strength, genuinely creates a novel experience behind the wheel. While you can find all of the technical specifications here; we want to focus on relaying the ease and fun of driving such a brawny vehicle, as well as emphasize what features distinguish it from competitors.
Prior to starting the 5.7-liter V8 engine, and enjoying its husky exhaust note, Scott Hairr, our Leith Toyota brand ambassador, wanted to underline some of the differences in design that make the Tundra a superior pick-up. He first turned our attention to the rear of the cabin, which houses an exceptionally spacious second row of seats. Whether you’re taking a crew of rugged, blue-collar workmen to a site or dropping off the kids (and their gear) to soccer practice, you’ll find more than ample room for any need. And should you require extra space in the cabin, this second row of seats can fold up.
Other features like a powered rear-window, an easy-drop gate, and a series of safety airbags further enforce the difference between Toyota engineering and design from its competitors. This superior craftsmanship carries over into the interior of the vehicle. From the dash to the consoles to the clusters, you can feel and hear the solid construction for which the Japanese automaker is known.
The center cluster has an uncomplicated, intelligent design. A few simple buttons and two knobs allow you to navigate the screens, or you also have the option to use the high-definition touch screen. With all of the conventional accoutrements, the 2014 Toyota Tundra offers the media, connections, and options today’s consumers seek.
In gear, the Tundra’s rumble hints at the 401 lb-ft of torque, yet it handles as easily as the Camry or Corolla. That’s what is most surprising about this truck; we did not expect the effortless turn of the wheel. Even through some of the sharpest curves of the road, the general feeling within the cabin was that the truck felt surefooted and secure. While some pick-up trucks reverberate over obstructions or imperfections in the road, the Tundra differentiates itself from the competition by providing a much smoother ride.
Acceleration and deceleration weren’t overanxious. Pressing either pedal did not jar the occupants of the cabin–jolting, as one might describe it. In fact, the braking system identifies where greater pressure is needed and adjusts accordingly to help mitigate skidding. Powerful in its ability to reach interstate speeds and smooth in rolling up to a stoplight, the Toyota Tundra has the height, power, and weight of a large pick-up without handling like one. Driving it was easy and fun.
Upon returning to Leith Toyota, we felt compelled to test a remark Scott made that lingered in the periphery of our minds: the “best in class turning radius. While being directed to park, we intentionally passed the slot and rounded a curb to opt for a more challenging one. It turned with such precision and felt as though the engineers at Toyota prioritized the turning radius in their plans.
Tough
Unassailable
Noble
Dependable
Robust
Affordable
Did we mention its ability to tow 10,000 pounds? That’s not an inflated number; that is genuine, sheer power in the engine and frame.
Now, you might be apprehensive because pick-up truck tires are no laughing expense; you also will need regular oil changes to maintain its optimal condition. That is quite a bit of money spent over the lifetime of the vehicle, which, for the record, is consistently three times more reliable than competitors (ask Consumer Report).
Leith Toyota wants to sweeten the deal. For purchasing a new 2014 Toyota Tundra, or any new Toyota, you can relish in the advantages of the Leith Toyota Lifetime Trust. We won’t list all of the perks, but you must know that you will enjoy a lifetime of free oil changes; you enjoy a lifetime of tire rotations–contingent upon buying your tires at Leith Toyota–as well; and you can ask any one of the great staff members about the rest of this unprecedented offer.
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