The 2002 Toyota Tundra TRD Stepside Concept made its world debut at the Chicago Auto Show, marking a collaborative effort between Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., Toyota Motor Corporation of Japan, and Toyota Racing Development (TRD). This concept truck, based on the Tundra Limited Access Cab, aimed to broaden the Tundra product line by offering consumers a blend of ruggedness, utility, style, and image, as Don Esmond, Toyota Division senior vice president and general manager, stated.
Powered by a sophisticated 4.7-liter i-Force V8 engine producing 240 horsepower and 315 lbs.-ft. of torque, the Tundra Stepside Concept showcased a unique stepside bed design with distinctive tail lamps. The bed's interior width between wheel wells and length remained the same as a regular Tundra bed, while the depth was increased from 17.2 inches to 19.0 inches. This stepside bed was manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Princeton, Indiana (TMMI).
Externally, the Stepside Concept featured a redesigned front fascia with a grille extending into the front bumper, round fog lamps, and color-keyed over-fenders for a sleek appearance. It boasted a lowered stance thanks to a sport suspension package, which included unique shock absorbers, a sport-tuned suspension, and a rear stabilizer bar. The truck rode on BFGoodrich g-Force T/A KDW tires mounted on three-piece chromed alloy 20-inch HRE Performance wheels. Additionally, a TRD Tundra dual cat-back exhaust system provided a distinctive exhaust note and added approximately six horsepower.
Inside, the Tundra Stepside Concept offered a harmonious blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Features included heated outside mirrors, a power sliding rear window, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, wood-grain-style interior trim, leather-trimmed captain's chairs, and a Premium 3-in-1 AM/FM/Cassette/CD audio system with four speakers. A multi-function center console provided ample storage capacity and included dual front-and-rear cup holders, as well as a memo pad clip.
Overall, the 2002 Toyota Tundra TRD Stepside Concept boldly explored customization and style within the full-size pickup segment, showcasing Toyota's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
Source & Images: Toyota
