Since summer 2026, car enthusiasts in Japan can purchase the Toyota Tundra, a full-size pickup truck produced in North America, at all Toyota dealers in the country. Although its body is almost 6 meters long and equipped with a 3.4L V6 turbo engine, its maintenance costs may surprise many: it is cheaper than expected, especially in terms of taxes.
What is the Toyota Tundra?
The Tundra was first launched in 2000, and the current third generation was introduced in 2022. Unlike other models, the Tundra sold in Japan is nearly unchanged North American specification, thanks to a new system that allows American-made vehicles complying with American safety standards to be sold in Japan without additional tests. In the United States, there are options for petrol and hybrid engines, but for the Japanese market, only a 3.4L V6 twin-turbo engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system is offered. The only available variant is the "1794 Edition" equipped with leather seats and luxury equipment, with a new price of approximately 12 million yen (estimated RM360,000).
Although these original specifications attract enthusiasts, there are some drawbacks: the head-up display does not work with the local navigation system, Toyota's connected services cannot be used, and the center display is only in English. However, for target buyers, these features may be a unique attraction.
Tundra Maintenance Costs: Surprisingly Low Taxes
Road Tax (Type Tax)
Road tax is charged annually to vehicle owners based on the inspection certificate on April 1. Because the Tundra is registered as a commercial vehicle (number 1) due to its open bed, the annual road tax is only 16,000 yen (estimated RM480). For comparison, the Land Cruiser 300 with the same engine is registered as a regular passenger car (class 3.5L) and is charged 57,000 yen per year. This is a significant saving.
Note that road tax must be paid within the specified period to avoid late payment fines.
Green Taxation System
The green taxation system is an incentive or penalty measure based on vehicle emissions. The Tundra is not eligible for tax reduction, but if the vehicle has exceeded 13 years since its initial registration, the road tax will be increased.
Vehicle Weight Tax
Vehicle weight tax is paid during vehicle inspection (shaken). As a number 1 commercial vehicle, the Tundra requires the first inspection after 2 years, and then annually. Annual weight tax is 16,400 yen. For comparison, the Land Cruiser 300 (passenger car) has the first inspection after 3 years, then every 2 years, with weight tax for 2 years between 41,000 to 49,200 yen, equivalent to 20,500 to 24,600 yen per year. The Tundra is cheaper in terms of annual weight tax.
Tundra Maintenance Costs: Insurance
Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance (Jibaiseki)
This insurance is legally required for all vehicles. For the Tundra classified as a private cargo truck (maximum load under 2 tons), the premium for 12 months is 16,900 yen. Usually, the policy is extended by one month to cover the inspection period, making the total amount 17,860 yen for 13 months. For comparison, the Land Cruiser 300 (passenger car) pays 17,600 yen for 24 months, which is about half the annual cost of the Tundra.
Voluntary Insurance
Compulsory insurance only covers third-party liability up to a maximum of 40 million yen, which may not be sufficient for major accidents. Voluntary insurance is important to cover property damage, personal injury, and other issues. It is recommended to consult with a dealer or insurance agent to ensure adequate coverage.
Vehicle Inspection (Shaken)
As a number 1 commercial vehicle, the Tundra requires the first inspection after 2 years, and then annually. Basic maintenance costs are estimated at around 50,000 yen, plus official fees and fluid replacements, making the total around 120,000 yen or more. The cost may vary depending on the workshop, so get a quote first. For those who want to save money, "user inspection" (bringing the vehicle yourself to the inspection center) can reduce the cost to around 2,000-3,000 yen for pre-inspection and center usage fees, but keep in mind that the manufacturer's warranty may be void if not serviced at an authorized dealer.
Tundra Maintenance Costs: Fuel and Other Expenses
Fuel Consumption
The 3.4L V6 twin-turbo engine produces 394 PS and 649 Nm of torque, and uses RON95 fuel. Fuel consumption is not stated in the Japanese catalog, but based on American EPA figures, the average is approximately 8.1 km/L (highway 9.4 km/L, city 7.2 km/L). With RON95 fuel priced at around 169.2 yen per liter (May 2026 data), driving 10,000 km per year requires approximately 1,235 liters of fuel, equivalent to an annual cost of approximately 209,000 yen (estimated RM6,270). Although relatively high compared to fuel-efficient cars, it is still reasonable for a full-size four-wheel drive pickup truck.
Expensive Tires
Original tires are size 265/60R20, large and expensive. All-terrain tires from well-known brands can cost around 50,000 yen each. With installation and disposal costs, replacing four tires can reach 200,000 yen or more. It is important to choose tires with appropriate load index and weight capacity, as the Tundra weighs almost 3 tons.
Parking Space
Finding an appropriate parking space may be challenging. The dimensions of the Tundra are 5,930 mm in length, 2,030 mm in width, and 1,980 mm in height. It is not suitable for multi-level or automated parking, so flat parking is required. Some parking spaces may reject large vehicles, requiring the search for a parking space that allows trucks, which may be more expensive due to the larger space required.
Conclusion: A Balance Between Drawbacks and Advantages
Although fuel and insurance costs may be relatively high, the Toyota Tundra offers an attractive value in terms of low taxes, excellent driving performance, and an impressive presence. For those considering a purchase, it is important to evaluate not only the annual costs but also the parking environment and intended usage. With careful planning, owning this full-size pickup truck can be a satisfying experience.
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*Original source: [kurumaerabi.com](https://www.kurumaerabi.com/magazine/articles/1244/)*