Toyota 'Unleashes' TRD Performance Power-up Option for Tundra at SEMA, Raises 469 HP

As always, the Japanese automaker is one of the most prolific companies when it comes to novelties at specific events in America. The 2023 SEMA Show was no exception if we think about the abundance of introductions and also about their glorious variety. Did you want to say hello to a 1966 Toyota FJ45 modified with a NASCAR engine swap (among others) and named FJ Bruiser? No problem.

Or maybe you wanted to see a restomod 1967 FJ45 Land Cruiser Wagon along with a host of Tacomas? That's also easily achievable. Of course, the star attraction wasn't the Blue Beetle Tacoma but rather the twin-turbo V6-swapped 2024 Toyota Tacoma X-Runner concept, which strives to bring back fond memories of the early days of sports trucks with its 421-hp 3.4-liter i-Force mill taken from the bigger Tundra truck. But how come it has 421 hp instead of 389 horsepower?

Well, as it turns out, the secret is simple: Toyota just "unleashed" the TRD Performance Package Power-up option for the 2024 Tundra, and it's not just a show gimmick – the kit will become available to customers early next year. "In factory trim, the base i-FORCE engine produces 389 peak horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 479 lb-ft. of torque at 2,400 rpm," said Greg Bernas, vice president of Toyota Service Parts and Accessories Development.

From now on, if anyone wants, the package will increase the base engine's output to 421 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, "while peak torque comes on 400 rpm sooner, delivering 479 lb-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm, broadening the torque band and significantly improving power delivery at throttle tip-in," according to Bernas. Even better, i-Force Max Tundra hybrid buyers won't be left out of the tuning party – the kit also "boosts horsepower from 437 to 469" on the electrified models!

According to Toyota, its engineers increased airflow for the turbos, optimized the engine calibration via software, and also deployed larger, higher-flowing dual intakes along with a higher-flowing cat-back exhaust to make sure there's lower back pressure. For both engine options, there's also "unique throttle tuning (which) compliments the increased powertrain performance resulting in a sporty and powerful driving feel." The new TRD Performance Package Power-up option comes with a dedicated badge on the tailgate, a bespoke exhaust tip treatment, and a full, factory-backed warranty along with pre-delivery installation – all for an MSRP of $3,400.