For those who crave adventure that extends beyond the paved road, the Toyota Tacoma stands ready as a reliable partner. Known for its ruggedness and versatility, a key question for Tacoma enthusiasts and potential buyers is: just how much can a Toyota Tacoma tow? Whether you’re planning to haul a camper for a weekend getaway, tow a boat to the lake, or manage equipment for your latest DIY project, understanding the tow capacity on a Toyota Tacoma is crucial. The latest Toyota Tacoma boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it a formidable midsize truck ready for a variety of tasks. With a diverse lineup of trim levels for the 2025 model year, ranging from the foundational SR to the off-road-ready TRD Pro, it’s essential to pinpoint which Tacoma configuration aligns perfectly with your towing demands.
This comprehensive guide, brought to you by the experts at Miller Toyota, your trusted automotive resource, will delve into the towing capabilities of the new Toyota Tacoma. We’ll explore the 2025 Toyota Tacoma towing capacity specs across different trims, analyze engine options and their impact on towing, and provide detailed charts for both the latest models and previous model years. Equip yourself with the knowledge you need to choose the right Tacoma for your towing needs and visit Miller Toyota to experience the power and capability firsthand.
2025 Toyota Tacoma: Towing Power Highlights
- Peak Towing Capacity: Achieve up to 6,500 pounds of towing prowess when properly configured. This capacity confidently handles mid-sized boats, campers, and a wide range of utility trailers.
- Engine Choices: Power your towing adventures with the robust i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or opt for enhanced power and efficiency with the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
- Impressive Payload: Beyond towing, the Tacoma excels at hauling. Select the TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX trim to leverage a maximum payload capacity of 1,705 pounds, effortlessly managing heavy loads in the truck bed.
- Advanced Towing Technology: Drive with confidence while towing thanks to integrated technologies like Trailer-Sway Control. Further enhance your towing experience with the available Towing Package, featuring a Class-IV towing hitch receiver for secure and stable hauling.
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Image alt text: Side view of a red 2025 Toyota Tacoma driving on a dirt road, showcasing its towing performance and capability.
Unpacking the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity and Performance Metrics
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues its legacy of robust performance, offering two advanced powertrain options carried over from the redesigned 2024 model. Drivers can select between the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine and the more powerful and efficient i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbo hybrid powertrain.
The standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivers a solid 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and demanding towing tasks. For those seeking even greater performance, the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid powertrain elevates the output to an impressive 326 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid powertrain not only enhances power but also contributes to improved fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize both capability and economy.
Transmission options for the 2025 Tacoma cater to different driving preferences. Enthusiasts will appreciate the available six-speed manual transmission with intelligent rev-matching and anti-stall technology, offered on the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims. For smooth and convenient shifting, an eight-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) is also available. This automatic transmission features sequential shift mode and uphill/downhill shift logic, optimizing performance and control in various driving conditions, especially when towing.
The choice between XtraCab and Double Cab configurations also plays a role in the Tacoma’s towing dynamics. Different cab and bed configurations can influence weight distribution and overall vehicle dynamics, which in turn affects towing capacity.
When it comes to 2025 Toyota Tacoma towing capacities, models equipped with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine can achieve the maximum tow weight of 6,500 pounds. Interestingly, this is a significant 1,500 pounds more than the Toyota Highlander towing capacity, highlighting the Tacoma’s superior towing prowess in the Toyota lineup. Tacoma models powered by the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, across most configurations and trim levels. A slight exception is the Trailhunter trim, specifically the Double Cab 4WD with a 6-foot bed, which tows up to 5,950 pounds. Opting for a 5-foot bed on the Trailhunter increases the towing capacity back to 6,000 pounds.
To navigate the specifics of towing capacity across the 2025 Tacoma lineup, refer to the detailed chart below. This chart outlines the necessary cab style, drivetrain, and bed size combinations to reach 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/Double Cab | 5 ft/6 ft | RWD/4WD | 3,500 lbs |
| SR5 | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | XtraCab | 6 ft | RWD/4WD | 6,500 lbs |
| TRD PreRunner | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | XtraCab | 6 ft | RWD | 6,500 lbs |
| TRD Sport | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i/6-speed manual | Double Cab | 5 ft/6 ft | RWD/4WD | 6,400 lbs |
| TRD Off-Road | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i/6-speed manual | Double Cab | 5 ft/6 ft | 4WD | 6,400 lbs |
| Limited | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | RWD/4WD | 6,300 lbs |
| TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs |
| 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 lbs |
| Limited i-FORCE MAX | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs |
| Trailhunter | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs |
| TRD Pro | i-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | 4WD | 6,000 lbs |
For entry-level needs, the Tacoma SR provides a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds across all configurations. To unlock the maximum 6,500-pound towing capacity for the Toyota Tacoma, focus on the SR5 XtraCab or TRD PreRunner XtraCab models. Both of these trims, when equipped with a 6-foot bed and either RWD or 4WD for the SR5, achieve the top-tier towing figure.
When considering towing power within the Toyota truck family, it’s natural to compare the Tacoma to its larger sibling, the Toyota Tundra towing capacity. While the full-size Tundra undeniably offers greater towing capabilities, the Tacoma presents a more agile and city-friendly driving experience. For a detailed comparison, explore our Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra guide to determine which Toyota truck best suits your specific needs and lifestyle.
Toyota Tacoma Towing and Payload Through the Years
The Toyota Tacoma has built a strong reputation over the years as a dependable midsize truck, consistently delivering impressive towing and payload capabilities. Whether you’re using your Tacoma for work or recreation, understanding the towing capacity and payload ratings across different model years is valuable. This historical perspective allows you to appreciate the Tacoma’s enduring capability and choose a model year that aligns with your specific requirements and budget.
| Model Year | Max Towing | Max Payload |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 6,500 lbs | 1,705 lbs |
| 2024 | 6,500 lbs | 1,709 lbs |
| 2023 | 6,800 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| 2022 | 6,800 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| 2021 | 6,800 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| 2020 | 6,800 lbs | 1,620 lbs |
Image alt text: Close-up of a Toyota Tacoma’s tow hitch receiver and wiring harness, highlighting the components of the tow package.
Decoding the Toyota Tacoma Tow Package
Enhance your Tacoma’s towing readiness with the available Toyota Tacoma Tow Package. This package equips your truck with essential features for safe and efficient towing, including a robust Toyota Tacoma towing trailer hitch. The Tow Package typically includes a Class-IV towing hitch receiver and a wiring harness with 7-pin/4-pin connectors, ensuring seamless electrical connections for trailer lights and brakes. With the Tacoma Tow Package, you can confidently tow trailers and campers, knowing your truck is equipped for the task. Consult with the experts at Miller Toyota to confirm tow package availability and features for your chosen Tacoma trim.
Image alt text: Front three-quarter view of multiple 2025 Toyota Tacoma trucks parked in a dealership lot, inviting customers to explore the new models.
Explore the New Toyota Tacoma at Miller Toyota
Beyond its impressive tow capacity, the Toyota Tacoma offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. From the vibrant Toyota Tacoma color palette to the well-appointed interior and advanced tech features, the Tacoma delivers a complete and enjoyable driving experience.
At Miller Toyota, we are your trusted resource for all things Tacoma. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer all your questions about the Toyota Tacoma towing capability, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and any other details you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re set on the Tacoma or exploring other models in our extensive new Toyota inventory online, we are here to assist you. We also offer attractive lease and financing options to help you find the perfect deal on your next Toyota vehicle. Visit Miller Toyota today and let us help you drive away in the Tacoma of your dreams, ready for any adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions about Toyota Tacoma Towing
Can a Tacoma genuinely tow 6,500 pounds?
Yes, both the 2024 and 2025 Toyota Tacoma models are capable of towing up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. Achieving this maximum towing capacity necessitates specific configurations within certain trim levels and requires the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. For models equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, the maximum towing rating is slightly lower at 6,000 pounds when correctly configured.
Which Toyota Tacoma configuration offers the highest towing capacity?
The pinnacle of towing capability, 6,500 pounds, on the 2025 Tacoma is achieved with the SR5 XtraCab or TRD PreRunner XtraCab models. These configurations require a 6-foot bed and the availability of the tow package. For pre-owned Tacomas in the 2020 to 2023 model years, the maximum towing capacity reaches 6,800 pounds when properly equipped.
What types of items can a Toyota Tacoma effectively tow?
With a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds, the Toyota Tacoma is exceptionally versatile. It’s well-suited for towing a wide range of items, including midsize trailers, pop-up and teardrop campers, various types of boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and essential work equipment. The Tacoma strikes an ideal balance between robust capability and everyday usability, making it a superb choice for both professional and recreational towing needs.
What are the engine options for the 2025 Tacoma?
The 2025 Tacoma presents two advanced engine choices: the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine and the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid. The standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine delivers 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain significantly boosts performance with 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, providing enhanced power and efficiency.
Disclaimer: Payload includes the weight of occupants, cargo and options and is limited by weight distribution.
Disclaimer: Before 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.
