2005 Toyota Tundra

Ever since Toyota opened their design studio in Southern California, they've seemed to be able to tap in to what most American buyers wanted in their cars, then take that knowledge and produce a vehicle that far exceeded buyers' expectations. The Tundra is no exception.

Launched in 2000, the Tundra was designed to go head to head with the best that Detroit had to offer. With competitors like Ford's F-series and GM's Silverado, the Tundra had its work cut out.

Using a pair of stellar engines and Lexus-like refinement, the Tundra not only bested the competition, it re-defined what a 1/2-ton truck should be. Using the dual-overhead cam 4.7-liter V8 found in the go-anywhere Land Cruiser, it's 245 horses could pull up to 7,200-pounds, or carry a whopping 2,000-lbs in Lexus-like luxury.

Tundra's came in base, SR5 & Limited form. You could get, 4-wheel drive, or 2, standard, Access or Double cabs, V8, or a 190-hp V6, plus a laundry list of creature comforts. The Tundra was designed to be Bruiser the bouncer...in a tuxedo.

If you're looking at a used Tundra, pay attention to how the truck was used before you get it. Trucks typically have a harder life than cars do. Towing and hauling take a toll on a vehicle, so have things like the transmission and transfer case checked before you buy.

2005 Model Year Changes: A new 4.0-liter V6 replaces the old V6 and now packs 245hp. The new V6 also came with a 6-speed transmission. The V8 also got 42 more horsepower making 282hp. Side curtain airbags, an antiskid system and a navigation system were also introduced.

2005 Model Year Things to Look For: none