The automotive world is constantly evolving, with new models and innovations appearing every year. As we look towards the future, it’s important to appreciate the vehicles that have paved the way and continue to hold their own. The outgoing generation of the Toyota Tundra, particularly the 2021 Toyota Tundra Trd Pro, stands as a testament to timeless design and rugged capability. In a market often dominated by flashy aesthetics, the Tundra TRD Pro has always been a truck for the discerning driver – one who values function, reliability, and genuine off-road prowess over unnecessary frills. While the all-new 2022 Tundra makes its entrance with bolder styling, the 2021 model retains a classic appeal, offering a blend of understated design and proven performance that continues to resonate with truck enthusiasts.
After spending significant time behind the wheel of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax, it’s clear this truck remains a strong contender in the competitive full-size pickup segment. This second-generation Tundra, initially launched in 2007 and refined over the years with notable updates in 2014 and beyond, has aged gracefully. Its consistent, practical upgrades have focused on enhancing usability and durability. The heart of this beast, the 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivers a smooth and robust power that makes tasks like towing feel effortless, despite a somewhat modest towing capacity compared to some rivals. This engine, a legend in its own right, is sadly being phased out in the newer models, making the 2021 Tundra TRD Pro a potentially last chance to experience this classic powerplant in this configuration.
Lunar Rock 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro parked outdoors.
To truly put the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro to the test, I did what any truck enthusiast would – I used it for truck things. My mission involved towing a rather temperamental 1971 Volkswagen 411 race car to the Gambler 500 Mexico event near Terlingua, Texas, close to Big Bend National Park. This journey presented a diverse range of challenges, from navigating Texas Hill Country highways to tackling off-road trails in the desert. The vintage VW, known for its struggles with hills and highway speeds, needed a reliable partner, and the Tundra TRD Pro was ready for the task. Beyond just towing, the Gambler 500 also provided ample opportunity to explore the truck’s off-road capabilities, venturing onto trails where it could truly demonstrate its natural habitat.
2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro towing a vintage Volkswagen 411 on a trailer.
2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax: Key Specifications
Let’s delve into the numbers that define the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax:
- Starting MSRP (as tested): $34,025 ($55,014 as tested with options)
- Engine & Drivetrain: 5.7-liter V8 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive with part-time 4WD and low range
- Power Output: 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm
- Torque Output: 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm
- Weight: 5,640 lbs
- Bed Dimensions: 66.7 inches length, 66.4 inches total width, 50 inches width between wheel wells, 22.2 inches depth
- Ground Clearance: 10.6 inches
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 9,200 lbs
- Maximum Payload Capacity: 1,560 lbs
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 38 gallons
- EPA Estimated Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, 14 mpg combined
- Summary: The Toyota TRD Pro CrewMax delivers genuine off-road capability and ruggedness, despite a somewhat overstated hood scoop.
Close-up of the front grille and hood scoop of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.
TRD Pro: The Off-Road Focused Trim
The TRD Pro designation signifies Toyota’s commitment to off-road performance. TRD, or Toyota Racing Development, is the automaker’s in-house division responsible for engineering performance-oriented parts and trims. The 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is equipped with a suite of off-road focused features that set it apart from the standard Tundra models. These include distinctive Rigid Industries fog lights, robust 18-inch TRD Pro BBS forged aluminum wheels, and comfortable TRD Pro leather-trimmed bucket seats designed to provide support during off-road adventures. A sturdy TRD Pro front skid plate protects vital undercarriage components when traversing challenging terrain, and a power moonroof adds an element of open-air enjoyment to any journey.
The core of the TRD Pro’s off-road capability lies in its advanced suspension system. It features TRD-tuned Fox shocks with external piggyback reservoirs and three-stage compression dampening. These reservoirs are designed to increase the shock’s oil capacity, keeping more fluid outside the main shock body. This innovative design helps to dissipate heat more effectively, reducing shock fade and ensuring consistent performance even during prolonged and demanding off-road use. While the TRD Pro badge brings significant enhancements, it’s important to note that in the Tundra lineup, it doesn’t quite reach the extreme off-road levels seen in the Tacoma and 4Runner TRD Pro models. The 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, due to its size and some inherent limitations like the absence of a locking rear differential, is positioned as a highly capable truck that exceeds the abilities of standard pickups, but it’s not directly competing with hardcore off-road specialists like the Ford Raptor.
Under the hood, the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro boasts Toyota’s venerable 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This power is delivered through a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission – a testament to the Tundra’s long-standing heritage. The TRD Pro features a part-time four-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing for easy switching between 2WD, 4-High, and 4-Low modes via a simple dial. Recognizing the V8’s thirst for fuel, Toyota equipped the TRD Pro with a generous 38-gallon fuel tank, ensuring ample range for long hauls and off-road expeditions despite its 14 mpg combined EPA rating.
Front three-quarter view of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in Lunar Rock color.
The test truck was finished in the distinctive TRD-exclusive Lunar Rock paint, a color that shifts subtly between blue and green depending on the lighting conditions. While grey tones might not always be exciting, Lunar Rock’s unique character adds a touch of intrigue and sets the TRD Pro apart.
The “CrewMax” designation indicates the larger four-door cabin configuration, offering significantly more rear passenger space compared to the Double Cab variant. This spacious cabin comes at the expense of bed length, with the CrewMax featuring a 5.5-foot bed. While this shorter bed might be a compromise for some, it still provides ample space for tools, gear, and equipment, particularly for those who prioritize secure, weather-protected storage. For individuals needing maximum passenger room without sacrificing the utility of a truck bed, the CrewMax configuration is an excellent choice.
Interior view of the spacious rear seats in the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax.
Towing with the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro
For many truck owners, towing is a critical capability. The 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is certainly up to the task, making hauling trailers and equipment a breeze. In my case, this meant towing a somewhat unreliable classic Volkswagen to an off-road event. Despite the VW’s questionable reliability, the Tundra TRD Pro proved to be a dependable and comfortable towing companion. With a rated towing capacity of 9,200 pounds, it’s not the absolute highest in the class, but it’s more than sufficient for most common towing needs, including cars, boats, and trailers. While you might notice the extra weight of a trailer, especially on inclines, the naturally aspirated V8 engine’s smooth and predictable power delivery ensures confident control.
To further enhance towing performance, Toyota includes a Tow/Haul mode in the Tundra TRD Pro. Activating this mode modifies the transmission shift points, holding lower gears for longer periods. This provides increased engine braking on downhill sections and optimizes power delivery for uphill climbs. The Tow/Haul mode effectively mitigates the challenges of towing, making it easier to manage heavy loads in varied terrain.
2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in Tow/Haul mode on a highway.
However, engaging Tow/Haul mode does come with a fuel economy penalty. While the Tundra TRD Pro achieves a respectable 17 mpg on the highway in normal driving, towing in Tow/Haul mode significantly reduces fuel efficiency. During demanding uphill towing sections, fuel economy can drop considerably, sometimes into the single digits. On flatter terrain with more moderate Tow/Haul usage, fuel consumption improves but remains lower than unladen highway driving.
One notable aspect of towing with the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is the V8 engine’s responsiveness. Even with a trailer in tow, the engine provides ample power for confident acceleration and passing maneuvers. Drivers need to be mindful of speed limits, as the Tundra TRD Pro can quickly reach higher speeds, even when towing.
Front seats and dashboard of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro interior.
Inside, the Tundra TRD Pro’s cabin is well-suited for long journeys. The rearview camera simplifies trailer hitch alignment, highlighting that while advanced trailering technologies are convenient, they are not essential for successful towing. Both driver and passenger benefit from heated, power-adjustable seats that provide excellent support and comfort. The Tundra’s interior prioritizes user-friendly controls, with physical knobs and buttons for frequently used functions like stereo and climate control, minimizing driver distraction. The 12-speaker JBL audio system delivers impressive sound quality, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The infotainment system in the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, updated in 2020, includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. However, the stock Toyota infotainment system is also intuitive and functional, featuring navigation with speed limit display and real-time traffic information. A particularly useful feature for travelers and those hauling valuable cargo is the cavernous center console, offering ample space to securely store items out of sight.
Infotainment screen and dashboard of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.
Off-Roading Prowess of the TRD Pro
While the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is comfortable on pavement, it truly excels when venturing off the beaten path. During the Gambler 500 event, the Tundra TRD Pro tackled challenging trails, including a rocky ascent up Christmas Mountain. While its full-size dimensions make it less nimble than smaller off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco for extreme rock crawling, the Tundra TRD Pro is ideally suited for overland trails and less technical off-road adventures. Its capability aligns perfectly with the spirit of events like the Gambler 500, which often involve navigating varied terrain in full-size vehicles.
2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro driving through a desert landscape.
On gravel trails, the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro performed effortlessly. Engaging 4-High and reducing tire pressure to 28 PSI provided excellent traction. The truck’s 10.6 inches of ground clearance and favorable approach and departure angles allowed it to navigate rocky terrain with ease. The 4WD system, activated by a simple knob, seamlessly manages wheel slip, ensuring consistent progress over obstacles.
The primary limitation of the CrewMax Tundra off-road is its overall length. Its 228.9-inch length can make tight turns challenging, sometimes requiring multi-point maneuvers. While some minor squeaking in the steering column was noted on the test vehicle, it’s worth considering that press vehicles often endure significantly more demanding use than typical consumer vehicles. Even in muddy conditions, engaging 4-Low provided ample traction to extract the Tundra TRD Pro with confidence.
Everyday Practicality and Urban Driving
Beyond its off-road and towing capabilities, the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro also demonstrates surprising practicality for daily driving. While a 360-degree camera would be beneficial in tight urban parking situations, the Tundra is surprisingly maneuverable for its size. It handles urban environments with more ease than expected, and the ride quality remains composed even on imperfect city streets. The smooth V8 engine provides brisk acceleration for highway merging and passing. Despite the presence of a non-functional hood scoop, the Tundra’s front-end design offers good forward visibility compared to some more aggressively styled modern pickups.
Front view of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in an urban setting.
The CrewMax cabin provides exceptional interior space, particularly in the rear seats. The massive rear doors and spacious rear compartment make it exceptionally family-friendly and practical for carrying passengers and cargo. The inclusion of durable rubber floor mats further enhances its practicality, especially in messy environments. While the Tundra TRD Pro is undeniably capable off-road, its on-road refinement and everyday usability make it a versatile choice for owners who need a truck that can handle both weekend adventures and daily tasks.
A Time-Tested and Trusted Truck
The 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro commands attention, even as a model nearing the end of its production run. Its appeal is rooted in its reputation for reliability, durability, and no-nonsense capability. Unlike some trucks that prioritize aggressive styling over substance, the Tundra TRD Pro appeals to those who value genuine functionality. Its popularity is evident in the attention it receives from current Tundra owners and truck enthusiasts alike, who appreciate its proven track record and understated yet capable demeanor.
Side profile of the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro showcasing its off-road stance.
The 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro stands out as a less overtly styled performance truck compared to rivals, making it a more comfortable and practical choice for everyday use. It avoids the cartoonishly macho aesthetic often associated with some pickups, instead prioritizing functionality and proven engineering. In its final model year of this generation, the Tundra TRD Pro represents a culmination of time-tested components and thoughtful design, delivering a truck that simply works, and works exceptionally well.
