Wouldn’t it be amazing if the best version of everything was always the cheapest? We hardly ever get that lucky as consumers. However, once in a while, an excellent product comes along and makes its best version shockingly affordable. Surprisingly, there’s one Toyota pickup truck that’s better cheaper. Have you seen the new 2023 Toyota Tundra full-size truck?

The less popular Toyota truck

It’s no secret that one Toyota truck is far more popular than the other. In the midsize pickup segment, the Tacoma has led the way for a long time. It beats models like the Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, and more. However, the other Toyota truck has much beefier competition. The biggest pickup titans are the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, and Ram 1500.

Each of these models is a rival of the 2023 Toyota Tundra. Although the Tundra isn’t as popular as the Tacoma or its full-size competitors, it’s got one significant advantage: it’s better cheaper. Buying the best versions of the latest Tundra is easy because the most affordable options are excellent.

The best 2023 Toyota Tundra trims

One Toyota truck is actually better cheaper: the full-size Tundra. According to Car and Driver, the best trim to buy is the second-cheapest SR5 trim. In the lineup, it sits behind four other models that all cost much more. Additionally, it’s only more costly than the base SR trim, starting at $44,265. C/D recommends the SR5 trim because it has many desirable standard features.

For example, the 379-horsepower twin-turbo V6 engine with a coil-spring rear suspension. Additionally, buyers can opt for the TRD Off-Road package if the SR5 trim isn’t enough for them. Standard SR5 features include alloy wheels, LED foglights, a rear center armrest with cupholders, adjustable tie-down cleats in the bed, and the Towing package. These are in addition to SR features, like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, proximity keyless entry/start, and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite of features.

Alternatively, Edmunds recommends buying the Tundra Limited. Just one spot above the SR5, the experts say it’s worth it for the larger infotainment touchscreen, hydraulic cab mounts, and eligibility to get the more potent hybrid powertrain. The Limited model starts at $50,360, adding highlights like heated/ventilated front seats, simulated leather, a tailgate release button, and a blind-spot monitor.

Other Tundra trims aren’t worth the price

Buying a full-size truck is expensive enough as it is. Opting for the range-topping models in the 2023 Toyota Tundra lineup costs far too much and isn’t worth the price. After the Limited model, the Tundra lineup features the 1794 Edition, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone. While only the top two trims are outrageously expensive, other models aren’t exactly affordable.

Buying a Tundra 1794 Edition costs $61,255, while the Platinum model is $63,570. Each is more than $10,000 over the Edmunds-recommended Limited model and closer to $15,000 more than the Car and Driver-recommended Tundra SR5. Getting a range-topping full-size truck from Toyota is even more costly. The TRD Pro model starts at $70,315, and the luxurious Capstone trim is $77,040.

While these trims have many excellent features and attributes, they aren’t worth the price. As a result, most experts recommend bottom-to-mid-tier trims, like the SR5 and Limited models. That’s why the 2023 Toyota Tundra is actually better cheaper.

A cheaper 2023 Toyota Tundra is a better full-size truck

Whatever you need from a full-size truck, the 2023 Toyota Tundra can probably do it. Although it has a higher starting price than some rivals, it offers many excellent standard features. Additionally, the pickup is capable and luxurious right from the start. The most affordable Tundra models are better than the most costly ones because they provide everything drivers need. Opting for the range-toppers is viable, but be prepared to break the bank. In conclusion, the Toyota truck that’s actually better cheaper is the Tundra.