Wait for Next-Gen 2022 Toyota Tundra or Buy a 2021? Truck Fans Torn and Speak Out

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Submitted by Jeff Teague on January 28, 2021 - 9:40AM

It is decision time. Buy a 2021 Tundra or wait for next-gen 2022 Tundra? Hear what passionate fans had to say.

This is the time of year, every year, when people in the market for new vehicles must make a choice. Sometimes a very difficult choice.

Should you choose the current model year or purchase the incoming next model year? There are several reasons for choosing either way.

For example, current model years may have added incentives such as bigger pricing discounts or lower manufacturer interest rates to make a deal more attractive.

However, the incoming new model year may offer a few extra features and options. It could be a refresh year, meaning exterior or interior styling may be slightly changed, along with a few more features.

Or it could be a compete redesign. New body style. Different powertrain choices. New suspension. The latest safety and technology.

In short, pretty much a new everything.

2022 Toyota Tundra

In the case of 2022 Tundra, I feel we may be looking at all of the above. Toyota is doing a terrific job of keeping their cards close. Little information has been leaked or released.

We have seen spy pictures floating around various social media platforms, but again, no specifics.

I expect Toyota will be offering a new powertrain, or powertrains. We may see a twin turbo V6 engine. We could soon be hearing details of a Tundra Hybrid.

Either way, look for big changes (or improvements, depending on how you are seeing it) in horsepower, torque, suspension, styling and mpg.

One Toyota dealer is expecting next-gen Toyota Tundra to be “a game changer.”

Fans comment on 2021 vs 2022 Tundra

A timely question was recently raised in the TundraCrew online fan forum on Facebook. Is it better to go with a 2021 Tundra or a 2022 Tundra?

Tundra fans, owners and enthusiasts weighed in. Their feedback was enlightening to say the least.

Harold commented. “Depends if you’re an old V8 meathead or can embrace advancements in engineering and technology to go with a turbo charged motor.”

“Depends on your needs and timeline accordingly. If now is the time you want a truck - start looking for a deal. It may take you until December to find the right deal. If you like a Tundra now, then don’t worry about a change in it “tomorrow”. Get a truck you like and sell it when you feel the need to. There will always be changes in the “next” model.” said George.

David has already made his choice. “I got a 2021 when I heard the motor is going to be a hybrid turbo v6. Let the 2022 and 2023 work the bugs out. My lease will be up by then lol”

Terry added. “Do you want lower mileage and bulletproof reliability or something new? I ordered a 21 because it will be the last of the good old 5.7.”

“Wait until the 22’s are released and pick up a leftover 21 for cheeeeeap.” Suggested Stephen.

Christopher declared. “Get the monster V8 while you can.”

Florin has a plan for his Toyota Tundra. “I have a 20 and will be buying the 22. I’m a dealer, for those of you thinking there will be smoking deals on 21’s ... don’t hold your breath.”

Ken commented. “My 2020 TRD Crewmax already has outstanding resale value and if they drop the V8 completely it is going to be worth even more. Get a 2021 now either way you win. A full redesign hasn't been done since 07 it is bound to have some issues just like the 2020 vette. If you want the new redesign at least give it 2 model years of people beta testing the design.”

Both sides of the Tundra debate

It is clear from some of these comments the debate that each individual must wrestle with. For many people, the choice is clear and easy to make. And for others, it is a wait and see situation. Waiting for more information. For specifics.

Jesse was a big fan of this hypothetical scenario. “Great question. No one will know the answer for another 5-10 years. I love my proven 2021 though.”

Jason recently made a purchase. “Just bought a 2021 Friday. If the 2022 is a redesign with a turbo 6 cylinder it's going to probably come at a premium price.”

Kevin is seeing a shortage of 2021 Toyota Tundra. “The 21's are in high demand and they are still behind on production from covid so getting one for cheap is going to be a challenge. I heard nothing below msrp on all trim levels not just the pros anymore. I had to drive almost 200 miles to find a dealership who even had the one in the color I wanted.”

“If you want a v8 get the 21. I read a while back that Toyota isn’t going to be putting v8’s in tundras in a couple years.” Myles added.

James said. “I’m counting on big jump in hp and torque. Plus better mpg. ’22 all the way!!”

Mike is doing research on traveling – and on Tundra. “We upgraded to a 46-gallon gas tank towing our former travel trailer all over North America- averaged about 8.5mpg towing the trailer. We're seriously looking at getting stats on 2022 as we'll be getting a bigger travel trailer.”

Frederick is on both sides of the fence. “I’m in on the 2021. Can’t make a determination on the future. But I’m excited to see it.”

Kevin knows you can have your cake and eat it too. “It depends on if you’re a V8 guy that doesn’t worry about mpg or that does. Myself I’m keeping my tundra and most likely leasing a new 2022.”

If it was me, I'd wait and see what the 2022 actually comes with, looks like, and is priced at. You really don't have enough information yet to make an educated decision.” Reasoned Ben.

Stan is hoping for improved fuel efficiency. “Wait for 2022. Our gas mileage sucks with the 5.7.”

Coyo is ready for the next-gen Tundra. “Wait for 2022 then decide. Honestly a TT V6 sounds exciting.”

Eric drew an interesting comparison. “2021 is going to look and feel like a t-model Ford once 2022 is released.”

Derek has been patient and is looking at 2022. “Wait for sure. I've had my 2001 monte carlo with 224k miles for 17 years. It's time for a new vehicle. I was going to get 2021 f150, but from what I’ve read on the 2022 tundra it's now my choice. So here I am holding out.”

“You should wait till the 2022 and test drive it with the 2021 and make a decision on which one you like better. And when the 2022 come out, you can get the 2021 cheaper if you want to go the 21 route.” Added Jimmy.

Time for your thoughts on Toyota Tundra

I know a few things about myself. I believe in Toyota quality, reliability and dependability. I own a Camry, Corolla, Highlander and 2021 Venza right now in my immediate family.

VIDEO YOU MAY ENJOY: Watch as we debate Tundra TRD Pro vs Tacoma TRD Pro. Who wins?

I also know how trusty and powerful the 5.7-liter V8 Tundra engine is and has been over the years. 381 horsepower. 401 lb.-ft. torque. Tundra is known for long-term reliability and the engine is one big reason why.

But I know how much I appreciate that technology and safety systems change, evolve and improve over time. Even quicker these days. I love seeing what is next.

When the 2022 Toyota Tundra is launched, I cannot wait to test it out and evaluate it.

What do you think, though? Are you more with staying the course and getting a Tundra that is here now? Or are you excited to see and test out and potentially purchase what will be coming soon – very soon?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story.

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Submitted by Paul Theodore … (not verified) on January 28, 2021 - 12:55PM

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I will be purchasing a '22 to replace my '08 Tacoma. While a common thought is that they'll be issues with the new model, looking back over Toyota's redesigned cars over the last 20 years DID NOT show conclusive evidence that the first year of a redesign was destined to have mechanical issues. Some models did have some issues but others did not and some actually improved in quality. I am not applying issues other manufacturers have with redesigns to Toyota.

Submitted by Paul Spencer (not verified) on March 5, 2021 - 5:27PM

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Driving 2010 V8. Old, old tech. Get 6mpg towing 2.5 to 4 ton travel trailers. Planning on longer trips so if milage does not improve, I'm looking at Dodge diesel - ouch! had one of first Prius hybrids and 2 other Toyota hybrids since - I have NO concerns buying Toyota hybrid technology - its not new.
Please give me V6 hybrid and I can finally say goodbye to the noisy beast.