For truck enthusiasts and weekend adventurers alike, the Toyota Tacoma stands out as a versatile midsize pickup, ready to tackle both on and off-road challenges. A crucial factor for many Tacoma buyers is its towing capability. The latest 2025 Toyota Tacoma boasts a robust maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it an ideal choice for hauling campers, boats, and various recreational trailers. With a diverse lineup of eleven trim levels for the 2025 model year, understanding the specific towing capacity of each configuration is essential.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Tow Weight specifications across all trims, from the base SR to the top-of-the-line TRD Pro. We’ll also delve into historical towing data and explore the features that enhance the Tacoma’s towing prowess. Equip yourself with the knowledge you need to choose the perfect Tacoma for your hauling demands.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: Key Specifications
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Achieves up to 6,500 pounds of towing capacity when correctly configured, providing ample power for mid-sized boats, campers, and utility trailers.
- Engine Choices: Powered by either the efficient i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or the potent i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
- Payload Strength: Designed to manage heavy loads within the truck bed, offering a maximum payload capacity of 1,705 pounds¹ on the TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX trim.
- Advanced Towing Technology: Equipped with features like Trailer-Sway Control and an available Towing Package that includes a Class-IV hitch receiver, ensuring enhanced stability and safety during towing operations.
Explore Toyota Tacoma Specials
Unpacking the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Performance
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma leverages the updated powertrain options introduced in the 2024 model year: the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine and the upgraded 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 boosts performance to an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid option not only enhances power but also contributes to improved fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions.
Transmission options for the Tacoma include a six-speed manual transmission (available on TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims) featuring intelligent rev-matching and anti-stall technology, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Additionally, an eight-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) is available, incorporating sequential shift mode and uphill/downhill shift logic for optimized performance in varied terrains.
The choice between XtraCab and Double Cab configurations also influences towing dynamics. The availability of different cab styles allows buyers to select a Tacoma that best suits their passenger and cargo needs while considering towing requirements.
When it comes to pure towing weight, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma, equipped with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, can achieve a maximum tow weight of 6,500 pounds². Interestingly, models equipped with the more powerful i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine offer a slightly lower maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when properly configured, except for the Trailhunter trim. The Trailhunter model provides a towing capacity of up to 5,950 pounds² when configured as a Double Cab 4WD with a 6-foot bed, which increases to 6,000 pounds² with a 5-foot bed.
To understand the towing variations across the 2025 Tacoma lineup, refer to the detailed chart below, outlining the towing capacity for each trim level based on cab style, drivetrain, and bed size.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity Chart: Trim Levels and Towing Specs
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Cab Style | Bed Size | Drivetrain | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 those considering the base SR model, the towing capacity is capped at 3,500 pounds², regardless of configuration. To maximize towing up to the advertised 6,500 pounds² for the Toyota Tacoma, opt for the SR5 XtraCab with either RWD or 4WD, or the TRD PreRunner XtraCab with RWD, each specified with a 6-foot bed.
When evaluating towing needs within the Toyota truck family, it’s natural to compare the Tacoma to its larger sibling, the Toyota Tundra. While the Toyota Tundra towing capacity significantly exceeds that of the Tacoma, the Tacoma offers enhanced maneuverability and is often preferred for daily city driving and tighter off-road trails.
For a detailed comparison, explore resources that pit the Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra to help determine which Toyota truck aligns best with your specific requirements.
Toyota Tacoma Towing and Payload Through the Years
The Toyota Tacoma has built a reputation for reliability and capability over the years. Examining the towing capacity and payload ratings across recent model years provides valuable insight into its consistent performance.
| Model Year | Max Towing Capacity | Max Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Understanding the Toyota Tacoma Tow Package
To fully leverage the towing capabilities of your Toyota Tacoma, consider the available Tow Package. This package includes essential upgrades like a Class-IV towing hitch receiver and a wiring harness with both 7-pin and 4-pin connectors, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of trailers.
Equipping your Tacoma with the tow package enhances towing safety and convenience, making it easier to connect trailer lights and brakes, and providing a robust hitch point for secure towing. Always verify that the Tow Package is equipped or consider adding it for optimal towing performance.
Discover Your Ideal Toyota Tacoma at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville
Beyond its impressive towing capabilities, the Toyota Tacoma offers a blend of style, comfort, and advanced technology. From selecting your preferred Toyota Tacoma colors to exploring interior features and cutting-edge technology, the Tacoma is designed to enhance every aspect of your driving experience.
At DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville, our team is ready to assist you with all your questions regarding the Toyota Tacoma, including detailed explanations of its towing capacity, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and trim-specific features.
Explore our extensive new Toyota inventory online to compare models and find the perfect Tacoma or other Toyota vehicle to meet your needs. We offer various lease and financing options to help make your next Toyota purchase as seamless and affordable as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Tacoma Towing
Is the Toyota Tacoma capable of towing 6,500 pounds?
Yes, certain configurations of the 2024 and 2025 Toyota Tacoma are engineered to tow up to 6,500 pounds. Achieving this maximum capacity requires specific trim levels and configurations, particularly those equipped with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. Models with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain have a slightly lower top tow rating of 6,000 pounds² when properly equipped.
Which Toyota Tacoma model offers the highest towing capacity?
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR5 XtraCab and TRD PreRunner XtraCab, both with RWD or 4WD, a 6-foot bed, and the available tow package, reach the maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds². For pre-owned Tacoma models from 2020 to 2023, the maximum capacity can reach 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 well-suited for towing a variety of loads, including midsize trailers, pop-up campers, teardrop campers, boats, and ATVs. Its balance of capability and size makes it versatile for both professional and recreational towing needs.
What are the engine options for the 2025 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2025 Tacoma offers two engine choices: the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, and the upgraded i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid powertrain that delivers 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.
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.
