Toyota Tundra enjoys big rugged factor

The Tundra has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the full-sized segment. Introduced in January, it is already causing the Big Three manufacturers to be looking over their shoulders at this young upstart.

The entry here is a 5.7-litre 4x4 model with the off-road package, but that extra ruggedness may hurt its chances for the top prize.

In off-road exercises, the Tundra's climbing ability was never in question, but its stiff suspension settings caused the truck to stutter-step over the log course. As well, that less compliant suspension hurt the Tundra's ride quality on the highway.

Expect this Toyota to finish third in the final balloting. So, which GM entry will be top dog? Chevy has a Silverado crew cab with its 5.3L flex-fuel V8, while GMC's contender, the Sierra, has the same cab/chassis configuration but with its 6.0L V8 featuring an active fuel management system. Both entries were equipped with four-speed automatics and 4x4 capability -- and both mastered the rugged off-road trials with ease.

Picking a winner comes down to a choice between more horsepower while paying a penalty at the pumps or better fuel efficiency with a tad less power. Most truckers prefer power, so expect the GMC with 367 ponies on tap to land atop the podium, despite its slightly less efficient fuel rating -- 16.6 city and 11.7 highway.

The Silverado, with 315 horsepower and a fuel rating of 15.1 city/10.6 highway, will be runner-up.

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