For drivers who demand a truck that’s as ready for adventure as it is for work, the Toyota Tacoma stands out. Especially when it comes to hauling, the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity is a key consideration. The latest models of this renowned mid-size pickup boast a robust maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. With a wide array of eleven distinct trim levels for the 2025 model year, understanding which Tacoma configuration aligns with your towing needs is crucial.
This guide will delve into the 2025 Toyota Tacoma towing capacity across its various trims, from the base SR to the top-of-the-line TRD Pro. We’ll also provide a detailed chart outlining the towing capabilities of recent model years, giving you a comprehensive view of Tacoma’s hauling prowess. Once you’re well-informed, we invite you to visit Miller Toyota to explore your ideal Tacoma trim and configuration firsthand.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: Performance Overview
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Achieving up to 6,500 pounds of towing power, the Toyota Tacoma is well-equipped to handle mid-size boats, campers, and various utility trailers.
- Engine Choices: Powering the Tacoma are two advanced engine options: the efficient i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the potent i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
- Payload Capacity: Beyond towing, the Tacoma excels in carrying cargo, offering a maximum payload capacity of 1,705 pounds¹ on the TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX trim.
- Advanced Towing Technology: For enhanced safety and control while towing, the Tacoma incorporates features like Trailer-Sway Control and an available Towing Package, which includes a Class-IV towing hitch receiver.
Exploring the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing and Performance Dynamics
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues the legacy of rugged performance, featuring the same advanced powertrains introduced in the 2024 model. These include the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine and the optional i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbo hybrid powertrain.
The i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivers a robust 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking even greater power, the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid powertrain elevates performance to an impressive 326 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid option not only boosts power but also enhances fuel efficiency, offering a blend of capability and responsibility.
Transmission options for the Toyota Tacoma include a responsive six-speed manual transmission with intelligent rev-matching and anti-stall technology, available on TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Additionally, an eight-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) is available, featuring sequential shift mode and uphill/downhill shift logic for optimized performance in varied driving conditions. The choice between XtraCab and Double Cab configurations also plays a role in towing dynamics, offering flexibility based on passenger and cargo needs.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma towing capacities reach a maximum of 6,500 pounds² when equipped with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. This is a significant 1,500 pounds² greater than the Toyota Highlander towing capacity, positioning the Tacoma as a more capable towing vehicle in the Toyota lineup. Models equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine offer a still-impressive maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds², regardless of the specific trim level or configuration, with a slight exception for the Trailhunter trim. The Trailhunter model, when configured as a Double Cab 4WD with a 6-foot bed, tows up to 5,950 pounds², which slightly increases to 6,000 pounds² with a 5-foot bed.
To better understand the towing variations across the 2025 Tacoma lineup, refer to the detailed towing capacity chart below. This chart outlines the necessary cab style, drivetrain, and bed size configurations required to achieve the maximum towing weight for each Toyota Tacoma trim level in 2025.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity Chart: Trim by Trim Breakdown
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Cab Style | Bed Size | Drivetrain | Max Towing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SR | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | XtraCab or Double Cab | 5 ft or 6 ft | RWD or 4WD | 3,500 lbs² |
| SR5 | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | XtraCab | 6 ft | RWD or 4WD | 6,500 lbs² |
| TRD PreRunner | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | XtraCab | 6 ft | RWD | 6,500 lbs² |
| TRD Sport | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i or 6-speed manual | Double Cab | 5 ft or 6 ft | RWD or 4WD | 6,400 lbs² |
| TRD Off-Road | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i or 6-speed manual | Double Cab | 5 ft or 6 ft | 4WD | 6,400 lbs² |
| Limited | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | RWD or 4WD | 6,300 lbs² |
| TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs² |
| TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs² |
| Limited i-FORCE MAX | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs² |
| Trailhunter | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs² |
| TRD Pro | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs² |
For the entry-level SR model, the towing capacity is set at 3,500 pounds², regardless of configuration or drivetrain. To achieve the maximum 6,500 pounds² Toyota Tacoma towing capacity, you should consider the SR5 XtraCab with either RWD or 4WD, or the TRD PreRunner XtraCab with RWD, both requiring the 6-foot bed configuration.
Considering other Toyota truck options? While the Toyota Tundra offers greater towing capacity as a full-size truck, the Tacoma provides enhanced agility and is often preferred for city driving and off-road adventures.
Explore a detailed comparison in our Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra guide to help determine which Toyota truck best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity and Payload Through the Years
The Toyota Tacoma has established itself as a reliable and robust midsize truck, consistently delivering impressive towing and payload capabilities. Whether for professional use or weekend excursions, understanding the towing capacity and payload ratings across different model years highlights the Tacoma’s enduring capability.
| Model Year | Max Towing | Max Payload |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 6,500 lbs² | 1,705 lbs¹ |
| 2024 | 6,500 lbs² | 1,709 lbs¹ |
| 2023 | 6,800 lbs² | 1,685 lbs¹ |
| 2022 | 6,800 lbs² | 1,685 lbs¹ |
| 2021 | 6,800 lbs² | 1,685 lbs¹ |
| 2020 | 6,800 lbs² | 1,620 lbs¹ |
Unpacking the Toyota Tacoma Tow Package
For owners planning to utilize the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity frequently, the Tow Package is an invaluable addition. This package equips your Tacoma with essential features, including a robust Toyota Tacoma towing trailer hitch. The Toyota Tacoma tow package ensures confident and safe towing of trailers or campers, featuring a Class-IV towing hitch receiver and a comprehensive wiring harness with both 7-pin and 4-pin connectors. This setup facilitates easy connection to trailer lights and brakes, enhancing safety and compliance.
Discover the New Toyota Tacoma at Miller Toyota
Beyond its impressive towing capabilities, the Toyota Tacoma offers a blend of style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. From vibrant Toyota Tacoma colors to a refined interior and advanced tech features, the Tacoma is designed to enhance every journey. At Miller Toyota, our knowledgeable team is ready to address all your inquiries about the Toyota Tacoma, including detailed explanations of its towing capacity and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
Whether you’re set on a Tacoma or wish to explore our extensive selection of new Toyota vehicles, our online new Toyota inventory provides a convenient platform for comparison. We are also pleased to offer a variety of lease and financing options to help you secure a competitive deal on your next Toyota vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Tacoma Towing
Is the Toyota Tacoma really capable of towing 6,500 pounds?
Yes, the 2024 and 2025 Toyota Tacoma models are engineered to tow up to 6,500 pounds when properly configured. Achieving this maximum towing capacity necessitates specific trim levels and configurations, along with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. For models with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, the maximum towing capacity is slightly less at 6,000 pounds² when correctly configured.
Which Toyota Tacoma model offers the highest towing capacity?
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 XtraCab and TRD PreRunner XtraCab, in either RWD or 4WD configurations with a 6-foot bed and the optional tow package, achieve the maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds². For pre-owned Tacomas, models from 2020 to 2023 can reach up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped.
What types of items can a Toyota Tacoma tow?
With a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds², the Toyota Tacoma is versatile enough to tow a wide range of items. This includes mid-size trailers, pop-up or teardrop campers, boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and various recreational and utility equipment. The Tacoma effectively balances robust capability with everyday usability, making it suitable for both work and leisure.
What are the engine options for the 2025 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is powered by two engine variants: the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine and the optional i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid. The i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine produces 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain enhances these figures to 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, offering both increased power and improved efficiency.
¹Payload includes the weight of occupants, cargo and options and is limited by weight distribution.
²Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. “Added vehicle equipment” includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle’s exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner’s Manual for limitations.
