In a world where most diesel engines are biting the dust, the 2023 Toyota Tundra is going in a different direction. While the 2022 Toyota Tundra currently doesn’t offer a diesel powertrain, things could change very soon.
Is the 2023 Toyota Tundra getting a diesel engine?
2022 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro | Toyota
According to Pickup Truck News, the 2023 Toyota Tundra diesel engine is in the works. It should join the twin-turbo and hybrid powertrain options soon. But information about what to expect is a little scarce.
So, we switched gears and took a look at one of Toyota’s videos. “Engines 101: How Does a Diesel Engine Work” answers a lot of questions about diesel engines. Plus, this video was released on American sites.
This is a little odd because Toyota currently doesn’t offer any diesel vehicles in the United States. But Toyota is a firm believer in diesel benefits. For example, they are more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines, and they provide an excellent amount of torque for towing and off-roading.
What to expect with the diesel Tundra
The 2023 Toyota Tundra could gain the new diesel engine from the J300 Toyota Land Cruiser. The 3.3-liter V6 diesel pumps out 304 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The Ram 1500 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiseal provides 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque.
So, this would provide more than enough power for the Tundra. However, Toyota would have to meet the higher emission standards in the United States. Doing so could impact its numbers. Also, on the Land Cruiser note, we don’t have it in America because we’re expected to fall in love with the 2023 Toyota Sequoia instead.
The Toyota Tundra offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 389 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. You can upgrade to the i-FORCE MAX pumps out 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque.
With the standard engine, you get an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway. The fuel estimates for the Tundra Hybrid haven’t been released yet. Also, we aren’t sure about how well the diesel will do.
How much will the 2023 Toyota Tundra Diesel cost?
2022 Toyota Tundra | Toyota
You can get started in a 2022 Toyota Tundra for about $35,950. The 2023 Toyota Tundra is expected to primarily be a carryover model without many updates. The diesel engine may add a few thousand bucks.
Mike Sweers, Toyota Tundra Chief engineer, explained that he wanted to achieve diesel torque and power with the new Tundra. He wasn’t sure if the twin-turbo would have enough juice at first.
But it incorporates new tech that makes the smaller displacement more efficient and powerful. The i-FORCE MAX provides diesel torque and may serve as an excellent option until the new diesel option arrives.
One of the things that irk critics about the Tundra is its lack of powertrain options. But the ford F-150 dropped its diesel engine as interest seemed to decline. Now Bronco fans would like to see a diesel option emerge.
Plus, the addition of a diesel option for the Jeep Gladiator and Chevy Colorado brought a lot of attention to these midsize trucks. We’re going to keep following the scent of this diesel trail, and we’ll keep you updated along the way.
Keyword: Is the 2023 Toyota Tundra Diesel Worth Waiting For?