The 2014 Toyota Tundra is the latest full-size truck to enter the scene with a new face. Following the debut of the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2014 GMC Sierra at last month's Detroit auto show, it's now time to see how the 2014 Tundra stacks up against its predecessor in the styling department.
In a segment in which most buyers care less about subtlety, Toyota wisely chose to give the 2014 Tundra bolder styling, especially up front where there are no less than three different grille designs, all of which are larger and wider than the outgoing model. We'll start with the two premium trim levels, including the Platinum model, which sports a multi-slated chrome grille that's framed in even more chrome. Then there's the new 1794 Edition and its unique grille that consists of two thick brushed aluminum-like horizontal bars with a thick, metallic gray frame. The Limited model's grille features a black frame with eight thin silver bars. Toyota says the 2014 Tundra has a new three-piece front bumper to reduce replacement and repair costs, but it also gives the fascia a more rugged look. Toyota has also fitted the updated Tundra with new headlights with more sharp angles compared to the outgoing model.
From the side, the front and rear fenders sport sharper creases. Out back, the tailgate has a more pronounced lip at the upper edge and an embossed "Tundra" badge on the lower right side, which almost reminds us of past trucks when "Toyota" was stamped across the entire gate (now there's a small "Toyota" badge on the liftgate handle). The taillights have been tweaked with a reverse light indicator placed in the middle of the housing.
Inside the 2014 Tundra, Toyota has made many improvements starting with the instrument panel. Designers have ditched the individual, inches-deep binnacles that were likely not visually optimal at certain angles and probably a pain to dust and keep clean. Now, the dash has a clean layout with an information screen situated in the center. The frumpy and plump steering wheel in the outgoing model has been replaced with a complete new design that's sharper. The dashboard is simple yet bold, with thick metallic horizontal accent bars flanking the infotainment screen and HVAC controls. Higher trim levels get simple, yet elegant wood trim that runs along the middle of the dashboard. The 1794 Edition and Platinum models get "Lexus-quality" interiors with the former featuring saddle brown leather and the latter receiving double-stitched diamond-plate leather.
Toyota's decision to offer premium trim levels was based on the trend of an increasing number of customers in the segment who don't mind ponying up extra cash for swanky interiors. That said, the Tundra will still be offered with basic, cloth interiors who those who favor more a more rugged look. That said, do you think the 2014 Tundra is refreshing or revolting?
Written by: Erick Ayapana