Toyota Tundra vs. Tundra Hybrid

When it comes to comparing the Toyota Tundra to the Toyota Tundra Hybrid there are many similarities to take into account since the models share a platform and most of their features are the same.

However, there are a few key differences that could make or break your decision one way or the other. Here's a look at some major sticking points between the Toyota Tundra and Tundra Hybrid.

Tundra vs. Tundra Hybrid Price

When it comes to price, the base 2022 Toyota Tundra and Tundra Hybrid don't represent an apples-to-apples comparison unless you select the Tundra in a similarly equipped trim. The Tundra SR rear-wheel drive truck starts off its pricing at an MSRP of $37,745 while the base Tundra Hybrid starts at $54,795.

If you up your trim choice on the gasoline-only engine to something comparable to the Hybrid's base options, such as the Tundra Limited with a 5.5-foot box, you're looking at a price that's only a few thousand off – $51,395 compared to the Hybrid's base price.

Range-topping trims of both models add quite a bit of cash to your price, Choosing a gas-only Tundra 1794 trim with four-wheel drive and a 6.5-foot bed brings your cost to a suggested MSRP of $63,515, while a Tundra Hybrid Capstone trim with four-wheel drive and the 6.5-foot box runs for an MSRP of $76,025.

Tundra vs. Tundra Hybrid Specs & Towing

As for specs, the Tundra and the Tundra Hybrid share many of their dimensions since they're built on the same platform. The wheelbase on the base models of both begins at 146 inches. The Tundra is available in different configurations and therefore has a model which stretches to a wheelbase of 158 inches, or 165 inches on the Double Cab with an 8-foot bed.

When comparing base configurations, both have 41.2 inches of front legroom, though the 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid beats the standard Tundra with back passenger comfort coming in with a total of 41.6 inches of rear legroom compared to just 33.3 inches. However, the base model Tundra is a Double Cab model, while the Tundra Hybrid starts in a CrewMax setup. Changing the configuration to a crew cab on the regular Tundra affords you the same space in the back row as the Tundra Hybrid.

Where many truck aficionados will see the major difference is in towing capacity. Depending on the configuration you choose the Tundra can tow between 8,300 lbs and 12,000 lbs. The Hybrid tops out at a towing capacity of just 11,450 – its all-wheel drive configuration saps some of the towing strength. The Max payload on the Tundra is higher than on the Hybrid, too, 1,940 pounds compared to just 1,680.

Towing capacity on the Tundra increased to the maximum of 12,000 when properly equipped in its 2022 redesign.

Tundra vs. Tundra Hybrid MPG

Toyota introduced the addition of a Hybrid lineup just this year, giving the truck options when it comes to fuel economy. Those looking to save at the pump can now opt for a Tundra Hybrid, dubbed the i-FORCE MAX.

However, the Hybrid doesn't get the same numbers as we've seen from other hybrid trucks in the segment. The Tundra Hybrid clocks in at MPGs of 20 city, 24 highway, and 22 combined. The base Tundra SR gets an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 MPG city, 24 MPG highway, and 20 combined.

Though the Tundra Hybrid does have slightly better numbers from the EPA, fuel economy isn't the Hybrid's strong suit. The real advantage in choosing the Hybrid powertrain is in power. The Tundra Hybrid's i-Force MAX out-muscles the Tundra's standard 3.4-liter V6 engine by producing 437 horses with 583 lb-ft of torque. The regular Tundra only makes 389 horsepower.

Tundra vs. Tundra Hybrid: Which Is Better?

Better isn't exactly a word we'd use when it comes to comparing the Tundra vs. the Tundra Hybrid. With these trucks, it comes down to your needs as to which one will fit the bill.

The standard gas-only Toyota Tundra comes in so many configurations that there's sure to be one for just about everyone, plus it starts at a reasonable price for a vehicle in this class. This engine only costs you a few miles in gas when it comes to fuel economy compared to the Hybrid, and when properly equipped it takes the cake on towing capacity.

The Tundra Hybrid, on the other hand, has more oompf off the line due to its more powerful engine, and it can tow nearly as much as its non-hybrid sibling. It's going to cost you a lot more from the start though, even if you save just a few bucks on fuel.

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