The anticipation for the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra has been palpable, and now, the full-size truck segment reaches a new pinnacle of luxury and capability with the introduction of the Toyota Capstone. This top-tier grade is meticulously crafted to offer a premium experience, boasting a suite of exclusive features and enhancements that set it apart. As the halo model in the Tundra lineup, the Capstone builds upon the already impressive foundation of Toyota’s redesigned full-size truck, promising to arrive at dealerships this spring and redefine expectations for truck enthusiasts seeking unparalleled refinement.
Striking Exterior Design of the Toyota Capstone
The Toyota Capstone immediately commands attention with its bold and sophisticated exterior. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the set of standard 22-inch chrome wheels, the largest ever offered on a Tundra, adding a touch of undeniable elegance and road presence. The front grille is uniquely designed for the Capstone, featuring a color-keyed outer frame and a distinctive chrome inner mesh pattern that exudes premium styling. Complementing the grille are subtle yet impactful chrome accents, including mirror caps, “TUNDRA” tailgate inserts, and trim details that further enhance the upscale aesthetic. Automatic running boards are standard, providing a convenient and refined entry into the luxurious cabin, seamlessly blending functionality with high-end design.
Indulge in the Capstone’s Premium Interior and Cutting-Edge Tech
Stepping inside the Toyota Capstone reveals an interior meticulously designed for ultimate comfort and sophistication. The cabin is highlighted by standard semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats, offering a level of luxury typically found in high-end sedans. These premium seats are not only crafted from exceptional materials but also feature stylish perforation and an exclusive black-and-white color combination unique to the Capstone grade. The center console and passenger-side dashboard are adorned with authentic Dark American Walnut trim, showcasing an open-pore finish that beautifully accentuates the natural wood grain. A refined Capstone logo is subtly inlaid into the walnut dash trim, illuminated when the doors open, adding a touch of bespoke detail. A panoramic moonroof comes standard, bathing the cabin in natural light and enhancing the sense of spaciousness. To create a serene and quiet environment, the Capstone is uniquely equipped with acoustic glass on the front doors, significantly reducing exterior noise intrusion.
The driver-centric cockpit of the Toyota Capstone is equipped with a leather-trimmed heated steering wheel and a large, customizable 12.3-inch digital Multi-Informational Display, providing essential vehicle information in a clear and modern format. A standard 10-inch color Head-Up Display projects vital driving data onto the windshield, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road ahead. The centerpiece of the technology suite is the expansive 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display, housing the all-new Toyota Audio Multimedia system. This advanced system, developed by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team, offers an intuitive user experience with enhanced sight, touch, and voice activation capabilities. The Intelligent Assistant, accessible through Drive Connect with simple voice commands like “Hey Toyota,” enables hands-free control for navigation, points of interest searches, audio adjustments, and climate control. Cloud Navigation, also part of Drive Connect, provides real-time over-the-air updates for maps and POI data, integrating Google POI for comprehensive search functionality. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility are standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system supports simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity and offers a Wi-Fi Connect subscription for 4G connectivity across up to five devices, transforming the Toyota Capstone into an AT&T Hotspot. Integrated Streaming allows linking personal Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions directly to the vehicle. Audiophiles will appreciate the standard 12-speaker JBL Premium Audio system, delivering an immersive and high-fidelity sound experience throughout the cabin. For added convenience, the Capstone includes a standard power bed step, complementing the power running boards and further enhancing accessibility to both the cabin and truck bed.
Power and Performance: The Toyota Capstone Delivers
Beneath its luxurious veneer, the Toyota Capstone remains a robust and capable truck. It is powered by the formidable i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, generating an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. This hybrid system pairs a twin-turbo V6 engine with a motor generator integrated within the bell housing of the 10-speed automatic transmission, optimizing both performance and efficiency. Built upon a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, the Capstone boasts a maximum towing capacity of 10,340 pounds and a maximum payload of 1,485 pounds. The hybrid system enhances towing performance by providing additional power and torque when needed, while also enabling a quieter and more fuel-efficient driving experience in city environments. On the highway, the i-FORCE MAX delivers responsive and linear power, and its peak torque, achieved early in the RPM range, further enhances off-road capability.
The truck bed of the Toyota Capstone is constructed from Sheet-Molded Compound (SMC) with reinforced aluminum cross members, offering superior protection against dents, impacts, and rust compared to traditional steel beds. For enhanced ride comfort, the cabin is mounted to the frame using hydraulic cab mounts. The Drive Mode Select system allows drivers to tailor the truck’s performance to their preferences, with standard modes including Eco, Normal, and Sport. When equipped with the available Load-Leveling Rear Height Control Air Suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), additional modes such as Comfort, Sport S, Sport S+, and Custom become available. In SPORT or SPORT+ modes, the i-FORCE MAX system leverages the electric motor’s instant responsiveness for enhanced acceleration. While the electric motor handles primary propulsion at lower speeds, the gasoline engine takes over above 18 mph for optimal mid- and high-speed performance. In TOW/HAUL mode, the i-FORCE MAX system operates in tandem to deliver exceptional acceleration and torque for demanding towing tasks.
Visibility is enhanced by Tundra’s array of cameras, providing multiple exterior angles viewable on the 14-inch touchscreen or the standard Digital Display Rearview Mirror. The Panoramic View Monitor offers a top-down perspective of the truck, including views of the rear truck bed, split views along the trailer sides, and a hitch view for easier trailer connections. The Towing Technology Package, standard on the Toyota Capstone, includes Trailer Back Guidance and Straight Path Assist, simplifying trailer maneuvering and straight-line reversing. Blind Spot Monitor, when paired with Toyota’s integrated trailer brake controller, extends its coverage to include trailer blind spots.
Safety First: Advanced Features for Confident Driving in the Toyota Capstone
The Toyota Capstone, like all Tundra grades, prioritizes safety with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5) as standard equipment. This comprehensive active safety system features Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, enhanced to detect vehicles, pedestrians in low light, daytime bicyclists, oncoming vehicles, and pedestrians at intersections during turns. Emergency steering assist further enhances pedestrian safety by stabilizing evasive steering maneuvers and helping prevent lane departures. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist are also part of TSS 2.5, providing a suite of driver-assistance technologies. Rear Seat Reminder is standard, adding an extra layer of safety for rear-seat passengers. Additional standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, further contributing to a safe and confident driving experience in the Toyota Capstone.
In conclusion, the Toyota Capstone represents the pinnacle of the Tundra lineup, seamlessly blending premium luxury with robust performance and advanced technology. It’s designed for those who demand the very best in a full-size truck, offering a unique combination of sophistication, capability, and cutting-edge features that redefine the segment.
