Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL earns a Recommended rating among the trucks we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.1/10, while Value at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 8.1/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 7.8/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.9/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.7/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $44,161–$52,595, 15 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota Tundra SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. The value score of 6.5/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 7 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in value are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2019 Toyota Tundra SL ranks #127 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 76% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $44,161 starting price is about 26% above the segment's median of $35,138.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Tundra SL Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2016 Toyota Tundra SL scores 7.5/10 — within striking distance of the 2019's 7.6 — and starts roughly $4,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Fuel economy at 15 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2019 Toyota Tundra SL
Is the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL reliable?
We rate the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL's reliability 8.1/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #127 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 76% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2019 Toyota Tundra SL cost?
The 2019 Toyota Tundra SL starts at $44,161 and ranges up to $52,595 across trims (MSRP when new). At 15 MPG, expect roughly $3,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Tundra SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Tundra SL years we've rated are 2015 (7.4/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.9/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Tundra SL
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More Toyota Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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