Two truck redesigns changing perceptions

Two redesigns for 2014: the 2014 Toyota Tundra Crew Max 4X4 and the 2014 GMC Sierra SLT Crew Cab 4X4. Both about $50K as tested and what they offer might surprise you. Another interesting fact: one is made in Texas and the other in Mexico.

Starting with the 2014 Toyota Tundra, our test vehicle was the 1794 Edition. Like most people, you might be wondering what that means. The short story is this: In 2003 the automaker bought what was once known as the JLC Ranch in order to consolidate the Toyota Tundra manufacturing. The ranch was originally established in 1794 — hence the name. If you dig into the history it isn’t exactly pro-Texas, but it is something linking history to the Toyota brand and a now American manufactured truck.

I do find it somewhat ironic that the GMC is made in Mexico. It just goes to show you never know these days. Getting back to the two trucks, both have been redesigned for 2014 and are trying to capture a luxury aspect. If we were truly comparing apples to apples, we would have driven the Denali in order to compare it to the ultimate luxury package of the 1794. Instead, we opted to compare price with the SLT being $670 less as tested than the 1794 Edition Tundra.

The big question: Can the Tundra keep up? After all, the Tundra did win the Motor Trend Truck of the Year Award in 2008. From a looks and package department the Tundra 1794 Edition is a higher-end package with Lexus quality leather seats, suede inserts and the 1794 branding in the seat backs. The backseat room is superior to the GMC, however, like the GMC it has an all-new interior. That is really where the buck stops.

The GMC Sierra SLT has a list of comparable options to the Tundra with leather seats, heated and cooled front seats, memory, navigation, back-up camera and, as you can imagine, more. Where it surpasses the Tundra is in functionality with additional options like auto-start, a built in trailer brake controller option and more power port combinations for running your 21st century gadgets. The new GMC also has a superior edge in the driving, handling, noise and fuel-efficiency departments.

If you compare the numbers the GMC does 18 mpg combined (3 better than Tundra) and has a smaller engine with less horsepower. Despite that it can still tow at a minimum 100 lbs. more and carry a payload of over 300 lbs. more.

So how do you choose? Well, the Tundra Crew Max 1794 Edition looks “chiseled” and has the luxury touches of domestic brand trucks that cost easily $6K more if you are looking for King Ranch, Laramie Longhorn or Denali badges. It will carry people better than loads, but is still a capable truck despite our complaints of light and cumbersome steering. The GMC has a new ride, updated steering and a nice look for 2014, but isn’t the top of the line. Call me a traditionalist, but I just like the idea of a good ole’ GMC at the end of driving both trucks.