The 2024 Toyota Tundra wins top honor at the 2023 Texas Truck Rodeo
PLANO, Texas (Nov. 10, 2023) – The 2024 Toyota Tundra has been named the “Truck of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at the annual Texas Truck Rodeo event. This is the second time in three years that the Tundra has received this prestigious title at the event.
Not only did the Tundra receive recognition, but the all-new 2024 Grand Highlander also secured first place in the Full-Size SUV category. Additionally, the Toyota Audio Multimedia was honored with a Feature Award, and the Toyota i-Force MAX Turbocharged Hybrid was awarded the Best Powertrain Award.
Built at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. (TMMTX), the Tundra features a fully boxed chassis and a multilink rear suspension. It boasts a maximum tow rating of 12,000 pounds and a max payload of 1,940 pounds. With two new i-Force powertrains – the i-FORCE twin-turbo V6 engine and available i-FORCE MAX twin-turbo V6 hybrid – the Tundra not only enhances performance but also improves efficiency. The hybrid i-FORCE MAX powertrain is particularly impressive, producing 437 hp @ 5,200 rpm and 583 lb.-ft. of torque at an impressively low 2,400 rpm.
Joe Moses, VP – Vehicle Marketing and Comms, expressed, “The Tundra is not only an American story, but a Texan story: assembled at our manufacturing plant in San Antonio. We are thrilled to see the positive impact the Tundra continues to have on the truck segment and are honored that TAWA recognized the Toyota Tundra as the Truck of Texas for a second time.”
The 2024 Tundra offers a range of features to cater to various needs. It includes off-road technology such as available Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Crawl Control (CRAWL), and selectable rear locker for those looking to venture off the beaten path. The new multimedia system provides a user-friendly experience with voice-activated technology and a massive 14-inch touchscreen.
Additionally, the Tundra offers groundbreaking towing technology with driver assistance technology that helps easily connect a trailer, and Straight Path Assist to keep it in a straight line when reversing. Interior features include a panoramic moonroof, a tailored cabin, a fan-favorite power vertical rear window, and an available 12.3-inch digital instrument panel for the driver.
During this year’s Texas Truck Rodeo, 37 journalists evaluated the latest trucks and SUVs from various manufacturers on an off-road course at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. Vehicles were assessed on interior, exterior, value, performance, and personal appeal. The Tundra excelled on the rugged course, outperforming its competitors. TAWA President Teia Collier commented, “The Texas Auto Writers Association Truck of Texas award is a prestigious honor, and the 2024 Toyota Tundra has truly earned the title.”
TAWA, a Texas-based nonprofit association for automotive journalists, has been promoting professionalism and quality in journalism for over two decades. It has become one of the most influential and recognized automotive journalist associations in the U.S. with its two annual events – Texas Auto Roundup and Texas Truck Rodeo – bringing members together to experience vehicles from various manufacturers in one place, at one time.
For more information on the 2024 Toyota Tundra, visit the Toyota Newsroom.