Walkinshaw-Converted Toyota Tundra Brings Hybrid Muscle Down Under

Australia’s Toyota Tundra has finally joined the big truck party, and it’s making quite the entrance. Among competitors, the Tundra had to bring something special—and it does, though it comes with a hefty price tag.

After years of planning and testing, including a trial run where 300 Aussies got to critique pre-production models, the Tundra has officially hit Australian shores. Since Toyota doesn’t build this beast in right-hand drive, the job of converting it has been handed to Walkinshaw, a local engineering firm.

They completely strip down each truck and rebuild it to meet Australian standards—a process that’s as meticulous as it is expensive. Speaking of cost, owning a Tundra down under will set you back AU$155,990 before on-road costs (around $101,900 USD). That’s almost double the U.S. price of $58,005, but the Aussie version is decked out in Limited trim and powered by Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid drivetrain.

This setup combines a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to pump out 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic and selectable four-wheel drive make sure all that power is put to good use. Aesthetically, the Toyota Tundra arriving in Australia mirrors its U.S. counterpart, but with a splash of local flavor in the color options. From Glacier White to Saturn Blue and Jungle Khaki, there’s a shade to suit every personality.

And if towing is your thing, the standard setup hauls 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs), while an optional kit boosts it to a whopping 4,500 kg (9,920 lbs). The payload maxes out at 758 kg (1,671 lbs), which is on par with smaller trucks like the Hilux. Inside, Toyota has gone all-in on comfort and tech. The Tundra boasts a 14-inch infotainment screen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a JBL audio system with 12 speakers.

It’s also loaded with safety features, including adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane assist, and a panoramic view monitor. Backing all of this is Toyota’s five-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty. Sure, the Tundra comes with a steep price tag, but it's a perfect choice for Australians looking for a truck that combines brute strength, cutting-edge tech, and luxury touches.