2024 Toyota Tundra vs Last-Gen: Which One Is Really the Best to Buy?
Those contemplating buying or keeping an older model may have valid reasons to consider switching to a 2024 Toyota Tundra.
Much ado was made about the redesigned Toyota Tundra when it debuted for the 2022 model year, and for good reason – after all, the second-generation model that preceded it had been on sale since 2007. However, the new Tundra didn’t arrive without some controversy attached to it, most of which was related to the fact that Toyota ditched its beloved naturally-aspirated V8 for a twin-turbocharged V6, as well as a hybrid option. This has led many to wonder – is it better to just stick with an older Tundra rather than upgrade to new? In this recent video from The Car Care Nut, we get a very interesting, in-depth exploration into this topic, in this case, comparing a nicely-kept 2007 model versus a brand new 2024 Toyota Tundra.
In this video, our host and resident technician has a 2007 Tundra SR5 with the 5.7-liter V8 and a brand new 2024 Toyota Tundra Platinum with the TRD Off-Road package and the hybrid I-Force Max powertrain in his shop. Right off the bat, he discusses engines and how they compare, noting that the old V8 is actually quite loud in the way that it operates, though it’s largely easy to work on. Then there are the engine’s known issues, including oil leaks and even valve spring issues in very early examples that led to a few engine failures.
As for why Toyota went with a turbocharged hybrid V6 in the newer model, our mechanic explains that this was done for emissions and efficiency purposes – not necessarily fuel economy, as this truck doesn’t offer much of an improvement over the non-hybrid powertrain in that department. Problem is, these benefits come at the cost of complication – the engine sits pretty far back and is covered in hoses, and it uses three radiators and two coolant bottles. Regardless, our host notes that it has plenty of power and operates very smoothly, though there are some things that worry him in terms of long-term reliability – such as the plastic quick-connect hoses underhood.
In terms of common issues, it’s interesting to note that the newest generation Tundra had a few at first, which took two model years to fully rectify – starting with the electronic waste gate, which prompted Toyota to switch to vacuum control. Secondly, machining issues caused some engines to seize up, though this pertains to very early examples. In fact, the same can be said of the prior-gen model and even its predecessor, which had a tendency to drop valves in early builds. Now, that isn’t really a concern, however, as those faulty models have likely already been fixed.
As far as the exterior and interior of these two trucks go, our technician isn’t really a fan of a few areas on the 2024 Toyota Tundra – particularly, the fact that the front end is finished in various colors and treatments, nor the poor paint quality present on the fender flares. At the same time, this 70k-mile 2007 model has a rusty bed – another common issue with these trucks. Inside the cabin, he isn’t a fan of the digital instrument cluster in the new model – which helps add to its hefty price tag – but does note that both trucks are comfortable to sit in.
With all of this in mind, our host reveals which Tundra he recommends we buy, and, well, it isn’t just a black and white decision. The older Tundra is great for those that just need a truck to do truck things with, but not necessarily to use as a daily driver. There, the 2024 Toyota Tundra shines, because it’s far more comfortable, thanks in part to its coil spring rear suspension, not to mention feature-rich. Trouble is, that added refinement and comfort comes at a steep cost – this particular 2024 Toyota Tundra stickers at around $75k, which is $15k more than the most expensive 2007 model one could buy new at the time.
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