Don’t Be Fooled by the 2024 Toyota Tundra’s Starting Price if You Want the Hybrid
When we see a vehicle’s advertised price in video or print, it’s easy to get excited about its affordability. However, the price of options adds up quickly. Advertising for the 2024 Toyota Tundra also follows that pattern, especially considering its available hybrid powertrain.
While Toyota isn’t intentionally misleading anyone, it’s tempting to hope we can buy a Tundra Hybrid for the advertised sub-$40,000 base price. So, how much does the 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid cost? And is it worth the extra money?
The 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid price and specs
On its website, Toyota lists the starting MSRP for the 2024 Toyota Tundra at $39,965. But don’t forget the $1,850 fee for “Delivery, Processing, and Handling,” which adds up to $41,815. For that price, the base 2024 Tundra SR features Toyota’s smaller double cab, a 6.5-foot truck bed, and a 348-horsepower gas-only V6. However, to get the option to add the Hybrid powertrain, you’ll have to step up to the Tundra Limited equipped with the CrewMax cab, starting at an “as built” estimated price of $55,755.
But wait, there’s more! Upgrading the Tundra Limited’s stock powertrain to the i-Force Max V6 Hybrid raises the “as built” price to $59,475. That makes the price difference for upgrading to the Hybrid a mere $3,295, although it’s nearly $20K higher than the Tundra’s advertised starting price.
2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid powertrain specs
Both powertrains include a 10-speed automatic transmission. They also offer the same choice between the standard two-wheel or optional four-wheel drive. However, the Hybrid version provides more power with 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque compared to 389 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque for the gasoline-powered V6.
Car and Driver says the Max moniker behind the i-Force name means Toyota inserted an electric motor into the driveline between the engine and transmission to achieve Hybrid status. While the Max Hybrid delivers more power than the standard i-Force V6, it also gets 22 mpg combined compared to 20 mpg, according to EPA estimates.
Is upgrading to the hybrid worth it?
Is the Tundra’s hybrid powertrain worth the extra money? Not if you’re satisfied with the size and performance of the base 2024 Toyota Tundra SR. Budget-minded shoppers can get a 2024 Tundra SR model with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined for $41,815.
The price difference buys about 4,000 gallons of gasoline, depending on the price. Over the course of 100,000 miles, the Hybrid only uses about 454 fewer gallons than the standard Tundra.
However, suppose you’re already interested in the Limited or higher trimmed Tundra with the CrewMax cab. In that case, adding the Max Hybrid powertrain option only increased the price by $3,295. Given Toyota’s reputation for longevity and ever-increasing gasoline prices, the hybrid’s fuel savings potentially pay for the upgrade over time.
Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the Max’s higher horsepower, torque, and the “green” feeling that comes with owning a hybrid.
