2020 Toyota Tundra vs 2019 Toyota Tundra

The 2019 Toyota Tundra retained much of its predecessor’s old-school charm. With its robust and slightly dated look, the truck continued to exhibit a sense of rugged dependability. Subtle updates had been made over the years, but they hardly sufficed in keeping up with more modern competitors. The trims, ranging from the base SR to the luxury Platinum and 1794 Edition, boasted features such as heated mirrors, adaptive cruise control, leather front bucket seats, and automatic climate control. However, the interiors felt industrial and somewhat bland.

The TRD Pro model, priced at $49,895, was particularly unique with its lifted suspension, forged BBS wheels, and off-road prowess. This model exuded a more aggressive aesthetic with features like TRD Pro badging, hood scoop, and skid plate. Despite the truck’s slightly antique appeal, it had its share of fans, particularly those who adored Toyota's legacy of rugged dependability.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra received some noticeable upgrades in appearance and trim offerings. Redesigned to give a tougher, technical look, the TRD Pro stood out with its exclusive Army Green color and black 18-inch forged aluminum wheels. Interior upgrades included black leather with red stitching, adding a touch of finesse.

However, the overall design did not stray far from the 2019 model, maintaining the same industrial-grade plastic throughout the cabin and an overall dated feel. Still, the addition of newer tech features and premium materials in higher trims aimed at making the cabin feel more luxurious compared to the previous year’s model.

The 2019 Tundra relied solely on two V8 engine options, both coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 4.6-liter V8 delivered 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque. It provided solid yet predictable performance, with lifting capacities of 1,600 pounds (payload) and towing up to 6,800 pounds. For better power, the 5.7-liter variant offered 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque, boosting payload to 2,630 pounds and towing capacity to 10,000 pounds.

Despite the outdated feel of the engines, they earned points for their durability and reliability. The TRD Pro set a high bar for off-road capabilities, with Fox shocks and a more rugged build compared to the competition. It was possible to hit 60 mph in roughly 7 seconds, making it reasonably quick for a full-size truck.

The 2020 Tundra standardized the 5.7-liter V8 engine across all trims, delivering 381 hp at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. With maximum towing capacity rated at 10,200 pounds and payload limit reaching 1,730 pounds, the truck remained a capable workhorse. The addition of the electronic shift-on-the-fly 4WD system enhanced versatility, particularly prominent in the TRD Pro variant.

The rugged TRD Pro was equipped with heavy-duty off-road shocks, a dual exhaust system, and an aluminum skid plate, making it a formidable off-road machine. While loud for some, the exhaust added a distinctive growl. Handling was solid but remained truck-like; wind noise and wide-body maneuvering were minor inconveniences. With EPA ratings at 13 mpg city and 17 highway, fuel economy suffered but was somewhat offset by a generous 38-gallon fuel tank.

The Tundra’s 2019 model emphasized simplicity and straightforward capability. When choosing the 5.7-liter engine, the truck's maximum towing capacity was optimized without needing complex packages. However, its colossal size posed challenges; without running boards, entry and exit were difficult, and urban driving became a tight squeeze. Parking garages were another annoyance with frequent antennae scrapes.

The 2020 model emphasized spaciousness, with ample rear seating in the CrewMax that could delight passengers, particularly younger ones. Front seats were leather-clad and comfortable, lending a more airy interior feel. However, storage solutions like a small glove compartment and sparse backseat storage did disappoint.

Cargo-wise, the Tundra’s bed was simple and functional but lagged behind competitors' innovations like Ford’s step ladders or Ram’s locking storage. Despite lacking these conveniences, the Tundra kept its core simplicity intact.

One of the 2019 Tundra's weak spots was its outdated technology. The absence of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, even as options, reflected its lag compared to competitors. With only one USB port in higher trims, the setup was frustrating, and the Entune system, while user-friendly, bore signs of aging. Buyers focused on tech features would likely look elsewhere.

The 2020 model saw valuable tech upgrades. Despite a hard-plastic frame, its infotainment offered modern capabilities like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The 8-inch screen in higher trims came with premium connected services and a 12-speaker JBL sound system. However, the interface's aesthetic remained dated. Toyota didn't integrate advanced towing technology found in competitors, and tech-savvy users might still find the system subpar.

Toyota equipped the 2019 Tundra with standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Missing elements like blind-spot monitoring were limited to higher trims. Safety ratings indicated vulnerabilities: 4 stars in frontal crash tests from NHTSA and scores of Marginal and Poor from IIHS in crucial areas. Rollover and braking performance could be better, making safety an area of concern.

Safety remained lackluster in 2020, with Safety Connect services offered and a blind-spot monitoring option available. However, the truck's crash-test results were concerning: Poor and Marginal ratings from IIHS in several tests. NHTSA ratings were better but not exceptional, especially the rollover resistance in 2WD models.