If upcoming family trips are on the radar, can your Toyota Tundra handle everyone and all their stuff? We wonder if the Tundra is as helpful as the Sequoia regarding kids, pets, luggage, and comfort. So, we took a trip to the 2023 Toyota Tundra for research. 

Is the 2023 Toyota Tundra good for family trips? 

On paper, yes, the 2023 Toyota Tundra is great for families with plenty of space and fuel savings from the hybrid powertrain. But we took a family adventure for Thanksgiving in the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, which presented challenges. 

For example, the taller ride height affected access, and the suspension may have provided a stiffer ride. But it had plenty of similarities to the other trims we’ve driven, such as the Capstone and 1794 Edition. 

Does the 2023 Tundra have enough cargo space? 

The 2023 Toyota Tundra could benefit from more cargo space. There isn’t any under-seat storage for bags or items. As a result, we had to carry casseroles and things in our laps or place them at our feet. 

While the center console and glove box are generous, there isn’t a compartment above the glove box, like other trucks have. Also, the rear is limited with tiny rear seat pockets, and the cup holders at the back of the center console can be hard to reach. 

The bed sits pretty high up without corner steps or built-in steps, making it difficult to store items. You need a tall person to help, or you can just flip your bags in. However, other trims have a power deploying step available. 

Is the Toyota Tundra comfortable? 

The 2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is a little mind-boggling because it’s more comfortable on the pavement than on off-roading trails. It jitters and shakes over dirt trails and gravel but feels smooth on asphalt. 

The front seats are massive and supportive. They’re great for long drives, and the backseat sits at a nice backrest angle. There is plenty of room for two adults. However, we put the smallest child in the middle seat, and he kept complaining. 

There is a bump in the floor in front of the middle seat, limiting leg space. Also, he was upset because he didn’t have any place to lean on. The Sequoia would have provided his own row. 

While the wind and road noise are kept at bay, people in the front can’t hear you from the back. You have to raise your voice to be included in the conversation. There is constant engine noise with the TRD Pro, which adds a bit of difficulty. 

The climate controls can be hard to reach in the back. Also, there is a bit of body roll-around curves that could upset sensitive tummies. 

Does the 2023 Tundra i-FORCE MAX Hybrid have a good fuel economy? 

The 2023 Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX Hybrid could do a little better on fuel. It’s rated to get an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway. 

While traversing curvy mountain routes, country roads, the highway, interstates, and downtown city areas, we found it difficult to break 15 mpg. But you can stretch it to 20 mpg in Eco mode, which has slower acceleration and response times. 

Is the 2023 Tundra fun to drive? 

Yes, the driver will have the best time during family trips with the 2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro. The i-FORCE Max hybrid powertrain cranks out 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds. 

The steering is responsive, and the brakes are confident. Plus, you feel in control with plenty of off-roading chops to get around obstacles. 

But the Tundra has a 24.3 to 26-foot turning radius, so slow down in tight spaces. You may have to correct your parking, and getting out of the way in crowded areas is a constant obstacle. At least the available 360-degree camera and parking sensors help. 

While the burly Tundra is smooth and spacious, it could improve passenger comfort, its hybrid fuel economy, and cargo storage. We recommend driving or sitting in the passenger seat during trips.