Nothing shows a truck is popular quite like the absurdly expensive yet surprisingly cool 6×6 conversions. And the latest “victim” of this mega trend is the 2022 Toyota Tundra 6×6, just put together by Esteem Customs.
Now, Esteem used to be known as Force Motorsport just a couple of months ago, but don’t let that fool you into thinking two companies have built the same 6×6 conversion.
The Tundra 6×6 made its debut at the Florida Truck Meet 2022, and as you can see from the video at the bottom of the story, it wasn’t even the only 6×6. In fact, 3-axle Jeeps are so popular there that they make headlines on an almost monthly basis. But a Toyota doesn’t seem like it belongs in this company… until now!
The process of making a 6×6 is basically the same whether you’re talking about a Jeep Gladiator, a Ford F-150 Raptor, or the Tundra. Heck, there’s even a Bronco 6×6 out there. The vehicle needs to have a modified chassis that’s long enough to accommodate the extra axle. After that, the power from the rear pro shaft needs to be shared.
For 2022, the Tundra dropped its naturally aspirated V8 in favor of two smaller but more efficient new engines. The most common is going to be the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. For the record, the old 5.7-liter V8 made 381 hp and 401 lb-ft. There’s also an i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, which is going to be less common and makes 437 hp plus 583 lb-ft from the same V6 but matched to an electric motor.
To make the truck look finished, Esteem Customs also had to fabricate a new bed. This basically looks just like the 6.5-foot standard bed, except it’s been chopped up in the middle and extended to accommodate another set of wheels. It sounds simple, but it’s really not when you have to match the design and the bed lining.
Why you’d make a Tundra 6×6
The new Tundra is quite a big deal since Toyota just created all-new everything for the fresh generation. Not only does it have modern tech and its first-ever twin-turbo engine, but also has nicer tech on the inside.
The 2022 Tundra starts from $36,000. They’re going to sell at least 100,000 units this year, but as far as we know, this is the only one with six wheels. The only one.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Florida build without some nice wheels. Just like that Ram TRX 6×6 (which was built by the same guys) we just showed you, the Tundra has been equipped with some gigantic satin black alloys from Vossen. In case you’re wondering, these are called HF6-5 Super Deep, and the multi-spoke design gives them a sporty, aftermarket look.
