With the full-size 2008 Toyota Tundra, Toyota finally unleashes a no-holds-barred, light-duty truck that shows no deference to those from Chevy, Dodge or Ford; setting a new standard for performance, capability, standard safety features and styling in the full-size pickup segment. The 2008 Tundra is available with 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains; and offers three cab styles, three wheelbases, three bed lengths, three engines and three trim levels.

Toyota Tundra offers three levels of power. In regular and double cab models, a standard 4.0-liter V-6 produces 236 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and a healthy 266 pound-feet of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The midgrade option for these models (standard for the CrewMax models) is an enhanced version of Tundra's proven 4.7-liter, i-Force V-8 producing 271 horsepower at 5,400 rpm, and 313 pound-feet of peak torque at 3,400 rpm. Both the V-6 and the V-8 feature DOHC, four-valve cylinder heads and variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for responsive power across the engine's operating range. Each engine is teamed exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission that offers greater flexibility than the competition's four-speed automatics. The double cab and CrewMax can be powered by an optional 5.7-liter, V-8 engine that is rated at 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque.

One of the most attractive things about the 2008 Toyota Tundra is its breadth of offering. The pickup is available in regular cab, double cab and CrewMax body styles. The regular cab is the standard cab truck, available in only Grade trim; while the double cab and CrewMax body styles are available in three trims: Grade, SR5 and Limited. The double cab is essentially a large extended cab with four forward-hinged doors; while the CrewMax is an extra-large crew cab. In profile the body has a distinct "barbell" form, with pronounced wheel arches, conveying the truck's inherent strength. Character lines and fender flares add dimension and strength as well as an unwavering stance. Tundra offers high levels of user technology, including available Bluetooth cellphone compatibility; high-end audio; and an optional navigation system that integrates a wide-screen, rear backup camera. Despite its many great features, the Tundra cabin has large amounts of hard plastic trim, and soft-touch surfaces are rare. The gauges are attractive, but not so easy to read as a result of the individual binnacle design, giving a hard time to both driver and passenger.

All Toyota Tundra models feature the star safety system as standard equipment. The safety features that come standard on every model include front- and side-impact air bags for driver and front passenger; side curtain air bags with a rollover sensor; four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock brakes, brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution; and electronic stability control with traction control and a limited slip differential. Three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions are firsts in this segment.