
Toyota says there's a Tundra for almost any job, and we're inclined to agree.
Still, most truck buyers have chosen other full-sizers, for reasons clear and not too obvious.
It's hard to see a truck buyer picking the dated Nissan Titan, for example, although its ripping NASCAR exhaust noise beats all the other trucks with an exhaust tip behind its back.
It's a tossup between the Tundra and the GM pickups, new in 2007 and updated only lightly since them.
In their favor is very good ride quality, seemingly endless configurations, and an available hybrid edition with a complex set of batteries and motors that help it save a little gas.
The Ford F-150 is one of our top picks in big trucks: its new powertrain lineup is spectacular, and its in-car technology is second to none.
The Ram 1500 remains a favorite, too, as much for its rich-looking interior and available HEMI power, as for its commendable ride quality.
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Quick Specs | |||||
Just as tough as the competition, the 2012 Toyota Tundra isn't quite as rugged-looking, as fuel-efficient, or as strong in the towing department. |
It counts a savvy Hybrid model in its ranks, but mostly, the 2012 Chevy Silverado appeals to the prosaic truck buyer that doesn't need as much in the way of infotainment. |
Efficient and burly, the 2012 Ford F-150 shares the lead in full-size trucks thanks to extreme capability and extreme high-tech features. |
The 2012 GMC Sierra has one of the greenest pickup trucks in its lineup, but some of its early spec-sheet triumphs have been bested by the latest F-150 and Ram. |
The 2012 Nissan Titan has held up well over a long lifespan, but its gas mileage, towing and hauling, and performance have fallen to the back of the full-size pickup truck pack. |
The 2012 Ram 1500 is big and burly yet very detail-oriented; and for those who want a good ride and refined interior, it's one of the best bets. |
MSRP From | |||||
$25,155 | $22,195 | $23,500 | $22,195 | $28,520 | $22,570 |
Gas Mileage | |||||
13 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 11 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 12 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy | 12 MPG City / 18 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 20 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||||
Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas/Ethanol V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V8 | Gas/Ethanol V8 |
EPA Class | |||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Style Name | |||||
Reg Cab 4.0L V6 5-Speed AT (GS) | 2WD Reg Cab 119.0" Work Truck | 2WD Reg Cab 126" XL | 2WD Reg Cab 119.0" Work Truck | 2WD King Cab SWB S | 2WD Reg Cab 120.5" Tradesman |
Drivetrain | |||||
Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||||
3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 3 |
Passenger Doors | |||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||||
Reg Cab | Reg Cab 6.5' Wideside | Regular Cab Pickup | Reg Cab 6.5' Wideside | King Cab | Regular Cab Pickup |
Transmission | |||||
Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
2012 Toyota Tundra vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 2012 Toyota Tundra vs. 2012 Ford F-150 | 2012 Toyota Tundra vs. 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 | 2012 Toyota Tundra vs. 2012 Nissan Titan | 2012 Toyota Tundra vs. 2012 Ram 1500 |