Buyers interested in purchasing a new full-size truck will likely research the 2023 Toyota Tundra. With a new design, fancy new features, and a trustworthy brand name, it’s an excellent option. The Tundra uses a hybrid powertrain, but is that the only option? Did the automaker drop its standard ICE non-hybrid options for its largest pickup this year? Is every 2023 Toyota Tundra a hybrid?

What are the 2023 Toyota Tundra engines?

According to Edmunds, the 2023 Toyota Tundra uses a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine in its first five trims. Capable of producing up to 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, this standard engine is potent for its low entry price. Additionally, it uses a 10-speed automatic transmission and is available with rear- or four-wheel drive.

The following Tundra trims come with this unit under the hood: SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, and 1794 Edition. As a result, not every Tundra is a hybrid. However, some of the latest Toyota full-size truck trims can be a hybrid.

The standard on the highest TRD Pro and Capstone trims is the same engine paired with a battery-electric hybrid system. Combined, they offer an output of 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the range-topping trims provides more power and many additional features.

However, the Limited, Platinum, and 1794 Edition trims can also use the hybrid powertrain. Optionally, buyers can add the more potent and fuel-efficient engine setup for roughly $5,500. A 2023 Toyota Tundra Limited without the battery-electric hybrid system is $50,360, and with one, it costs $55,810.

Does a hybrid Tundra get better fuel economy?

The main reason most people purchase a vehicle with a hybrid powertrain is for the added fuel economy. Especially with pickup trucks, boosting gas mileage by any small amount is a major win. According to Car and Driver, the two-wheel drive Toyota Tundra with its standard engine’s EPA-estimate averages 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Four-wheel drive reduces each number by just one.

However, C/D’s testing route recorded the hybrid variant delivering just 19 mpg combined. Additionally, Edmunds said during its testing route; it recorded the non-hybrid powertrain with four-wheel drive averaging just 15.2 mpg. That number only grew to 16.9 mpg during its highway-filled evaluation route. The Tundra is not a fuel-efficient model, regardless of which engine setup a buyer chooses.

Although the hybrid setup gets better gas mileage, it isn’t much of an improvement. The primary reason most buyers should choose it is for the additional power.

Can a Tundra hybrid tow more?

According to Cars Direct, the non-hybrid 2023 Toyota Tundra can tow more than the hybrid alternative. When both are properly equipped, the non-hybrid maxes out at 12,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the hybrid falls just short at 11,450 pounds. The same goes for payload capacity, which maxes out at 1,940 pounds for the standard V6 and just 1,680 when paired with the electric system. As a result, the non-hybrid setup with fewer horsepower and torque is actually better for towing and hauling.

Are all 2023 Toyota Tundra models a hybrid?

In conclusion, not every 2023 Toyota Tundra is a hybrid. Most versions of the full-size truck use the non-hybrid V6 engine. Only the range-topping and luxurious TRD Pro and Capstone trims come standard with a hybrid setup. Outside of those models, you’ll always find a standard 3.5-liter V6 under the hood. However, buyers can optionally purchase the hybrid powertrain on any trim beside the SR and SR5 models.