Through the digital grape vine we came across an article on MSNBC that rehashes the impending battle between Ford, Chevy and Toyota on the full-size pickup front. We've heard this story before, hell, we've told this story before, but what caught our eye was close to the end of the article when MSNSB Business Editor Roland Jones tells us that the 2007 Toyota Tundra's top engine, the i-Force 5.7-liter V8, will produce 381 horsepower. Wow! We've been trying to get that info out of Toyota since the Chicago auto show back in February, and Roland just lets it roll of the tongue like he were quoting rear-seat leg room. Unfortunately no torque numbers were mentioned, though we're far from sure this number is accurate anyway.
If it is, the Tundra will have a significantly more powerful large V8 to offer customers than will Ford, Dodge or Chevy. The F-150 offers the
5.4-liter Triton V8 that produces 300 hp and 365 ft-lbs. of torque, while the Dodge RAM can be had with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 producing 345 hp and 375 ft-lbs. of torque. Toyota, however, would clearly be aiming at Chevy if this number is accurate, as the Silverado's Vortec MAX 6.0-liter V8 produces 367 hp and 375 ft-lbs. of torque. Toyota promised us back in February that the Tundra would be able to tow 10,000 lbs. with this engine, though since then both Ford and Chevy have increased the maximum towing capacities of their half-ton pickups to 10,500 lbs. With such a powerful V8, the Tundra should have no trouble meeting and/or exceeding the new towing limits of the domestics. Of course, that's assuming the Tundra's frame can take it.