My experience with the 2008 Toyota Tundra, TRD SR5, CrewMax, 5.7L V-8 4WD was very impressive. While piloting the Tundra off and on for approximately two months, I found it to fulfill all of my expectations from engine performance, handling, towing, braking, styling, and comfort.
After opening the driver door of the CrewMax cab it was left hand on the A-pillar grab handle and a hop up into the cab. Noticeable high bolsters of the driver bucket seat made it more than just a hop up into the cab when you wear pants with a 30-inch inseam. Once settled into the tan cloth seat, I felt snug and comfortable. I found the huge center console very convenient for stashing my laptop and notebook. Underneath the top compartment is a deep well storage bin that makes for plenty of storage for essential larger items. An athletic telescoping/tilt, steering column allowed me to position the steering wheel at a comfortable distance and angle. The audio/navigation system features a Bluetooth wireless hands-free system that made all my incoming and outgoing calls effortless. The JBL music machine could be controlled by a selection of buttons on the steering wheel. I found myself tuned into the high quality audio sound, which made every mile of driving like sitting in a concert hall. The overall dash doesn't deliver much style but it is functional with a variety of twist knobs, and buttons. While in search of off-road opportunities with challenging terrain, I found myself never hesitating to engage into shift-on-the-fly, 4WD either Hi or Lo gear. The easy-to-read GPS Navigation system was probably one of the most informative and accurate units I have used. While in the gyro mode, the map pivots its position when I would turn left or right.
When taking the Truckin' staff to lunch, or a long trip to a photo shoot, the CrewMax accommodated myself and four other adults comfortably. During my seat-time, I experienced a couple of panic stops where the four-wheel antilock (ABS) disc brakes kept everything straight. I found the 18x8-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped with BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A P275/65R18 rubber to be quiet while on-road. The TRD Off-Road suspension handled and absorbed most rough terrain, although unfortunately during my time with the Tundra, I experienced two mysterious flat tires. A costly trip to the dealer has us up and running quickly, but the frustration of both front flat tires was disturbing. I utilized the Tundra's mighty muscle during occasional tow trips moving magazine and personal projects from shop to shop. Before loading my buddy's motorcycle in the bed, I simply disconnected and removed the tailgate extender cage. After loading and tying down his Kawasaki, I reconnected the tailgate extender cage to the bed and tailgate securing the motorcycle. The fullsize Tundra exterior needed some time to grow on me and the Tundra's size can be intimidating to some, but it does get the job done and that matters most.