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What year did the Tundra body style change?

The Tundra’s most visible body-style change occurred with the second generation in 2007, and a more extensive redesign arrived with the 2022 model year, introducing the third generation.

Generational timeline of the Tundra’s body styling

The following list outlines the three generations and how their silhouettes evolved.

First generation (1999–2006): original, rounded pickup styling with compact proportions.

Second generation (2007–2021): a more squared, robust look with updated cab and bed proportions.

Third generation (2022–present): all-new platform and significantly revised body lines for a modern full-size pickup.

These generational shifts mark the official changes in the Tundra’s body styling, while mid-cycle updates within a generation have occurred to refresh features and trim levels.

Why the 2007 change mattered

The 2007 transition to the second generation is widely recognized as the major body-style shift, bringing a redesigned front end, cab geometry, and bed configuration that aligned the Tundra with contemporary full-size pickups of that era. Although there were refinements within the second generation, the 2007 launch stands as the pivotal styling change.

Model-year timing vs calendar-year timing

In practice, Toyota typically releases new-generation Tundras as the next model year. The 2007 Tundra, for example, arrived as a 2007 model year in 2006, and the 2022 model year (third generation) was introduced in 2021. This distinction can be confusing when matching specific build dates to styling changes.

The 2022 redesign and the third generation

The 2022 Tundra represented a comprehensive redesign: a new chassis and platform, updated aerodynamics, and refreshed exterior styling aimed at improving capability, efficiency, and modern aesthetics. This third generation delivered the latest major body-style evolution for the model.

Summary: The most notable body-style change occurred in 2007 with the second generation, and the latest major styling shift began with the 2022 model year as the third generation. For enthusiasts and buyers, 2007 marks the big mid-2000s redesign, while 2022 marks the current, all-new design language.

What gen is 2017 Tundra?

The 2017 Toyota Tundra is part of the third generation, which ran from the 2014 to 2017 model years. It was a significant refresh of the second-generation Tundra, which was on the market from 2007 to 2021.

You can watch this video to learn about the evolution of the TRD Pro Tundra and its generations: 52sTundraDude34YouTube · Mar 16, 2022

Generation: The 2017 model year is the final year of the third generation Tundra.
Second Generation: The 2017 model is a significant update from the second generation that ran from 2007 to 2021.
Third Generation: The third-generation Tundra debuted for the 2022 model year with new styling, engines, and features.

This video explains the difference between the second and third generations of the Toyota Tundra: 57sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Apr 3, 2024

When did Toyota change the Tundra body style?

Toyota last changed the Tundra body style for the 2022 model year, which marked the beginning of the third generation. Before that, the second generation, which had a major redesign, ran from the 2007 to 2021 model years.

First redesign: The second generation Tundra, with a completely redesigned and larger body, launched for the 2007 model year.
Second redesign: The most recent generation began with the 2022 model year, featuring a new, more muscular look and a new powertrain.

What is the best year of the Toyota Tundra?

The best Toyota Tundra years depend on your priorities, but generally, 2019-2021 are highly recommended for their combination of modern safety features and the powerful V8 engine. For older models, 2013 stands out for its high reliability and customer satisfaction scores, while the 2007 model is praised for being the launch year of the redesigned second generation, which introduced the large CrewMax cab and a powerful 5.7L V8 engine.
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Tundra models to buy: 59sCars & TrucksYouTube · Sep 14, 2025
For modern features and safety

2019-2021: These years are praised for incorporating modern safety features like Toyota Safety Sense and offering a powerful V8 engine, along with a spacious cabin and comfortable ride.
2024: This model year is also highlighted for strong performance, available adaptive suspension, and standard safety features.

For maximum reliability

2013: This model received a perfect reliability score from Consumer Reports and won awards for its value, with high scores for acceleration and transmission.
2019: This year also received a "Perfect" reliability score from Consumer Reports.
2008 and 2011: Both years were given 5/5 reliability ratings by Consumer Reports.

For specific features

2007: The first year of the redesigned second generation, this model introduced the large CrewMax cab and the powerful 5.7L V8.
2015-2017 TRD Pro: These are considered the best TRD Pro models for their simplicity, being built on an SR5 platform with a Bilstein suspension.
2018: This was the first year the Toyota Safety Sense-P package became standard across the entire lineup.

This video talks about the best Toyota Tundra model year to buy: 46sTundraDude34YouTube · Jun 14, 2025

What year was the worst year for Toyota Tundra?

The worst model years for the Toyota Tundra are generally considered to be 2007 and 2012, due to significant engine and transmission issues. The 2007 model has the highest number of total complaints, while the 2012 model is singled out for its expensive engine and transmission problems occurring at lower mileage. Other years to consider avoiding include the first-generation 2005 and 2008 models, and the newer 2022 and 2023 models, which have reliability concerns with their new twin-turbo engine.
Problem years to avoid

2007: This year has the highest number of overall complaints, with issues like air injection pump failure, piston slap, and engine problems.
2012: Labeled the "worst model year" by some sources, this year is notorious for expensive engine and premature transmission issues that can occur at lower mileage.
2005-2008: The entire first generation of the second model series has a high number of complaints, with 2005 and 2007 being the most problematic within that range.
2022 and 2023: The new generation's first model years have faced reliability issues with the new twin-turbo V6 engine, leading to engine failure recalls.

Specific issues in problem years

2007: Faulty air injection pump, engine knocking, and other engine-related complaints.
2012: Expensive engine issues (like a faulty air induction pump that can cost over $3,000 to fix) and premature transmission problems that can start around 9,000 miles.
2005: Problems with the drive system, including the CV joint and front differential.
2022-2023: Engine failures linked to the new twin-turbo V6 engine.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.