2008 Toyota Tundra Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Expert review
The 2008 Toyota Tundra is big-enough, capable-enough, and comfortable-enough to go toe-to-toe with the Big Three’s best trucks.
The Toyota Tundra was the first full-size Japanese pickup to hit the North American market and has won numerous awards since. Toyota expanded the 2008 Tundra lineup with more choice, more standard equipment for some models, and a new pricing model that pushes some trims below the prices we saw for last year’s truck. That expansion adds up to dozens of different trim, body, and options combinations.
The Tundra is aimed at new car buyers that want a full-size pickup with excellent projected reliability ratings and a reasonable price. It competes with the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, and the Dodge Ram.
out of 10 expert review
Look & feel
The new Tundra is bigger, stronger, and more modern than its predecessor. That’s a good thing because Toyota’s heavy investment in the vehicle has resulted in a truck that can finally compete toe-to-toe with some of the best offerings from Ford, GM, and Dodge. Toyota isn’t fooling around with an almost-full-size truck anymore, and the new Tundra’s styling reflects that mentality.
The 2008 Tundra has a large grille that can be trimmed with chrome or black plastic. The shapely hood curves down toward the grille and large headlights that are mounted high above the bumper. The rest of the truck is unremarkable—just as Toyota likes it—but handsome. The truck’s fender flares and body panels are lightly styled and don’t draw too much attention away from that sculpted nose.
The Tundra’s interior quality and list of standard features handily beats the interiors of competing trucks. The cabin is more than spacious and handles up to five people easily. The front seats are well cushioned and only mildly bolstered, which helps them remain comfortable for long periods of time. Both seats are deep, and the upholstery feels premium, even in the base models with cloth upholstery.
In regular-cab models, the passenger seat can fold flat to present a large working and writing area, and there’s enough room behind the seats to store large boxes and tools. In all cab configurations, the Tundra has several storage areas, with spaces under the seat bottoms, large door pockets, and generously sized cupholders. The back seat is generally a nice place to be, and there’s plenty of legroom for adults to travel comfortably.
Performance
Pickup truck performance is really about three things: power, comfort, and capability. The Tundra, in most forms, nails all three. The V6 and 4.7-liter V8 are both technologically advanced and refined, but the 5.7-liter V8 is where things really start coming together for the Tundra. The engine has variable valve timing tech that helps it deliver maximum power while prioritizing fuel economy. The system also works to bump engine longevity and durability, which could mean fewer repairs down the road.
Power delivery from both of the V8 engines is smooth and linear, and both are able to get that power down at low RPM levels. The automatic transmissions are capable and find the right gear at the right time, though there is an occasional hesitance on downshifts when towing. The Tundra is rated with a towing capacity of up to 10,800 pounds, but with the V6 engine, the truck maxes out with loads that weigh as little as 5,100 pounds.
The Tundra’s fuel economy ratings are competitive in its class, but others slightly better. The 4x2 truck equipped with a V6 engine is rated at 15 mpg city, 19 highway, 17 combined.
With a 4.7-liter V8 and 4x2, the Tundra is rated at 14/17/15, which changes to 13/16/15 with 4x4 on board.
With the 5.7-liter V8 under the hood and 4x2, the Tundra is rated at 14/18/16. Those figures change to 13/17/14 with four-wheel drive. Buyers should expect that gas mileage can change significantly while towing and carrying a heavy payload.
Form & function
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size truck and does all the “truck stuff” with ease. On top of that, the interior is spacious, useful, and comfortable, which makes long-haul trips a pleasure. The front seats allow for multiple adjustment points to accommodate a wide variety of drivers and passengers, and outward visibility is excellent in all directions. Clever under-seat storage makes it easy to stow valuables and other items out of sight, and the fold-down passenger seat can turn the Tundra into a rolling office.
The Tundra’s size equates to a large bed, though some may find the truck’s height makes loading that bed difficult. Tailgate assist is standard, which makes raising and lowering the gate a breeze. It also makes one-hand operation much easier, as there’s no danger of the gate falling too quickly.
Technology
The Tundra breaks the work-truck mold with a generous list of standard features. It comes with a CD player, four speakers, auxiliary audio inputs, MP3 capabilities, power windows, power door locks, and air conditioning.
Available features include a six-disc CD changer, a rear-seat entertainment system, a JBL premium audio system with 12 speakers, a navigation system with backup camera, SiriusXM satellite radio, a DVD player, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and wireless phone connectivity.
Safety
Trucks don’t always win in crash test ratings, but the Tundra performed exceptionally. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Tundra a Top Safety Pick rating for the 2008 model year. That includes Good ratings in all crashworthiness categories: moderate front overlap, side, roof strength, and head restraints/seats. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the Tundra four stars in front crash tests and four stars for rollover resistance in 4x4 models.
The Toyota Tundra comes standard with anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, a vehicle stability control system, a limited-slip differential, side curtain airbags, and curtain head protection airbags. That’s one of the most comprehensive lists of safety equipment in the pickup truck game and is a big reason why the Tundra is a top safety pick for this year.
Cost-effectiveness
Vehicles usually increase in price over time, but Toyota took steps with the Tundra to decrease the price of some configurations. The result is a capable lineup of trucks that starts under $23,000 and ranges in price up to $40,000.
That’s in line with most of the competition. The Ford F-150 starts at a considerably lower price, around $18,000, but the Tundra’s base model comes with enough standard gear to justify its MSRP. Both trucks top out at around the same dollar amount and have similar capabilities.
The Tundra wins in the middle of its lineup, where buyers can add a powerful V8 powertrain and get a long list of standard features for less money than comparable pickups from Ford or Chevy.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2008 Toyota Tundra generally feel positive about its performance and reliability, often highlighting its powerful V8 engine and towing capability. Many appreciate the spacious and comfortable interior, as well as the truck's ability to hold value over time. However, some have noted concerns about poor fuel economy and high maintenance costs, which are common points of criticism."
Great value! Nothing compares to a Toyota tundra ! A lot of extras with this truck ! Very dependable!
January 22, 2026Im very impressed with the quality of the truck and all the features it has. I would DEFINITELY recommend getting the Tundra!
August 23, 2023Awesome truck plenty and plenty of power I love it!! Very dependable and I get a lot of comments on the looks of it. I will keep this truck a long time.
August 18, 2009What owners say
Great value! Nothing compares to a Toyota tundra ! A lot of extras with this truck ! Very dependable!
January 22, 2026Im very impressed with the quality of the truck and all the features it has. I would DEFINITELY recommend getting the Tundra!
August 23, 2023Awesome truck plenty and plenty of power I love it!! Very dependable and I get a lot of comments on the looks of it. I will keep this truck a long time.
August 18, 2009Performance - great acceleration, great braking,great handling for a truck Build Quality - has it needed repairs?just maintenance squeaks/rattles no Appearance - roomy interior and good exterior styling Cost of Ownership - decent gas mileage general maintenance Fun Factor - hell yes
April 27, 2011It’s powerful and simple. Very reliable with minimal issues and maintenance. A true workhorse
April 30, 2023This truck has done every single thing that I've asked of it. It runs great. The gas mileage isn't the best, but then again, it's a four wheel drive truck. There have been no maintenance issue with this vehicle. It's Great!!
March 26, 2013The only thing I want to change is the gas mailege a friend liked this so well he went and bought a new one .This is the best truck I have owned. People look when you drive down the road. Because of the slight lift it sets it appart from others. The TRD air intake should help with better fuel milage. The exhaust system is a low rumble not a blarring loud noise.
February 1, 2012I love my truck! The power from the 5.7L V8 is enormous, and it passes just about anything without even needing to put my foot to the floor. The transmission shifts smoothly (almost un-noticeably), and is never afraid to go down a couple gears if need be. The brakes are strong and sure, and the handling is awesome. The steering is light and quick in town and heavier on the open road, like it should be. Gas mileage is great for a truck of this size, so far I'm averaging about 18MPG.The quality is another strong point for this truck (it is a Toyota, after all!). No rattles, squeaks or misfitting panels. Everything is assembled with laser-like precision and fits perfectly. The paint quality is also outstanding. The styling is another plus, it just looks brawny and mean, while still maintaining flowing lines, unlike some of its competitors, ahem....Ford. Overall this is the best truck on the market, and I wouldn't own anything else. Completely stock at the moment, except for a newly-installed K&N 77-series Cold Air Intake.
November 2, 2011Great truck and value, just think I need the Long Bed ver. This works for us.
April 3, 2022This truck has the 5.7 it’s strong and fast. The truck is a real good value because of Toyota reliability.
October 24, 2021Trims & specs
Base MSRP $26,305 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 236 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $27,050 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,910 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $30,100 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $24,380 | Seating 3 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $25,790 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $27,050 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $27,440 | Seating 3 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $28,840 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $30,100 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $24,710 | Seating 3 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $24,715 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.0L 236 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $34,740 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $43,985 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $29,875 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $22,290 | Seating 3 |
Engine 4.0L 236 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $32,925 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $22,620 | Seating 3 |
Engine 4.0L 236 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $37,345 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $23,430 | Seating 3 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $40,395 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $26,480 | Seating 3 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $23,760 | Seating 3 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $26,810 | Seating 3 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $45,850 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $40,935 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $27,770 | Seating 3 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $29,110 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $37,790 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $27,685 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $27,040 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $35,070 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $30,735 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $30,100 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $38,120 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $28,875 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $31,935 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 14 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $24,860 | Seating 6 |
Engine 4.7L 276 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $42,800 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $26,050 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.7L 381 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$22,290 - $42,070
Current avg. market price
$12,958
Trending down by 3.7% this month
May 2026 - October 2026
