Of course, there are more capable 4x4s available, at least when it comes to scaling grades or wading through waist high

The V8's 325 lb-ft of torque allows the Tundra to haul and tow quite a bit more than last year's version. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

rivers, there isn't an off-road vehicle the world over that gives me the peace of mind that a Toyota can when fifty miles into no-mans-land. There's something about being stranded in the middle of nowhere in a Land Rover Discovery or Volkswagen Touareg, both well down the most independent surveyors charts when it comes to reliability than Toyota, that gives me the willies. While breaking down in a Toyota is not unheard of, it's sure as heck less likely. Incidentally, rear-drive 4x2 Tundras are also available, and are capable of carrying even heavier loads. Speaking of that, what about hauling and towing? The extra torque with both engines helps in this department, but even though the V6 is a major improvement the sheer weight of the truck itself already will tax the engine,

Although it has received some styling updates, the 2005 Tundra remains as one of the more conservative pickup truck entries in its full-size class. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

making it useful for lighter loads, small camp trailers, smaller boats, etc. The V8's 325 lb-ft of torque allows the Tundra to haul and tow quite a bit more than last year's version too, according to the company. While the current Tundra is not quite as enticing as the FTX concept, or at least it won't go so far as to attract Dodge Ram fans who might otherwise go for Toyota's bold prototype, Toyota has modified the front bumper, grille, lower valance, plus the head and taillight clusters on Regular and Access cab versions. The 2005 Tundra remains as one of the more conservative full-size pickup truck entries, with Ford's new F-150 arguably the most mainstream of the bunch, but it nevertheless looks a little tougher than when it debuted four years ago.