When adventure calls and you need to bring along your camper, boat, or utility trailer, the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity stands ready to answer. The latest iteration of this renowned midsize pickup truck boasts a robust maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. With an impressive lineup of eleven distinct trim levels for the 2025 model year, the question becomes: which new Tacoma configuration aligns perfectly with your specific towing requirements?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the 2025 Toyota Tacoma towing capacity specs across the range, from the entry-level SR to the rugged TRD Pro. We’ll also provide a detailed chart outlining the towing capabilities of each 2025 trim, as well as a helpful overview of towing capacities for past Tacoma model years. Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll be well-prepared to visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville and discover the ideal Tacoma trim and configuration to meet your hauling needs.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: Engine and Performance Details
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues its legacy of capability, powered by the advanced powertrains introduced in the 2024 model. You have the choice between two potent engine options: the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the even more powerful i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
The i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivers a compelling 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for everyday 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 in certain driving conditions.
Transmission options for the 2025 Tacoma include a refined eight-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i), featuring sequential shift mode and uphill/downhill shift logic for optimal control. For driving enthusiasts, select trims like the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road offer the engaging six-speed manual transmission with intelligent rev-matching and anti-stall technology. Furthermore, the choice between XtraCab and Double Cab configurations can influence the overall towing dynamics of the Tacoma, allowing you to tailor your truck to specific needs.
When it comes to 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacities, models equipped with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine achieve a maximum tow weight of 6,500 pounds. This capacity is more than sufficient for towing a variety of midsize loads, including boats, campers, and utility trailers. Tacoma models featuring the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when properly configured, regardless of the specific trim level, with a slight variation for the Trailhunter trim. The Trailhunter offers a towing capacity of up to 5,950 pounds when configured as a Double Cab 4WD with a 6-foot bed, which can be increased to 6,000 pounds with a 5-foot bed.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Chart: Trim Levels and Capacities
To help you navigate the towing capacities across the 2025 Toyota Tacoma lineup, refer to the detailed chart below. This table breaks down the maximum towing capacity for each trim level, considering engine type, transmission, cab style, bed size, and drivetrain.
| 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 lbs |
| SR5 | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | XtraCab | 6 ft | RWD or 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 or 6-speed manual | Double Cab | 5 ft or 6 ft | RWD or 4WD | 6,400 lbs |
| 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 lbs |
| Limited | i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cyl Turbo | 8-speed ECT-i | Double Cab | 5 ft | RWD or 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 |
As indicated in the chart, the base SR model offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds regardless of configuration. To achieve the maximum Toyota Tacoma towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, you’ll need to opt for the SR5 XtraCab with either RWD or 4WD, or the TRD PreRunner XtraCab with RWD, both equipped with a 6-foot bed.
Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: A Look Back at Previous Model Years
The Toyota Tacoma has consistently delivered commendable towing and payload capabilities throughout its model years. Examining the towing capacity ratings of past models can provide valuable context and assist in making informed decisions, especially when considering pre-owned options.
| 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 |
While the 2025 and 2024 models offer a still-impressive 6,500 lbs maximum towing capacity, previous model years from 2020 to 2023 slightly edge them out with a maximum of 6,800 lbs when properly equipped. Payload capacities have remained relatively consistent across these years, hovering around the 1,600-1,700 lbs range.
Unlocking Tacoma Towing Potential: The Tow Package
To maximize your Toyota Tacoma’s towing prowess and ensure safe and confident hauling, the available Tow Package is a crucial addition. This package equips your Tacoma with essential features designed specifically for towing, including a Toyota Tacoma towing trailer hitch.
The Toyota Tacoma Tow Package typically includes:
- Class-IV Towing Hitch Receiver: A robust hitch receiver designed to handle the stresses of towing up to the Tacoma’s maximum capacity.
- Wiring Harness with 7-pin/4-pin Connector: This essential wiring provides the necessary connections for trailer lights and brakes, ensuring compliance and safety on the road.
With the Tow Package, you can confidently connect and control your trailer’s lights and braking systems, enhancing stability and safety when towing campers, trailers, or other loads.
Tacoma vs. Tundra: Choosing the Right Toyota Truck for Towing
When considering Toyota trucks for towing, you might be wondering about the differences between the Tacoma and its larger sibling, the Toyota Tundra. While the Toyota Tundra towing capacity undoubtedly surpasses the Tacoma as a full-size truck, the Tacoma offers its own set of advantages.
The Tacoma, as a midsize truck, excels in agility and maneuverability, making it well-suited for city driving and off-road adventures. Its smaller footprint can be advantageous in tight parking spaces and on narrow trails. The Tundra, on the other hand, provides significantly higher towing and payload capacities for those who regularly haul heavier loads.
For a detailed side-by-side comparison, explore our comprehensive Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra comparison to determine which Toyota truck best aligns with your specific towing needs and lifestyle.
What Can a Toyota Tacoma Really Tow? Real-World Examples
The Toyota Tacoma’s towing capacity translates to real-world capability for a wide range of recreational and work-related tasks. With a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, a properly equipped Tacoma can confidently tow:
- Midsize Boats: Ideal for towing fishing boats, ski boats, and other recreational watercraft.
- Pop-Up or Teardrop Campers: Perfect for adventurous getaways with compact and lightweight campers.
- Utility Trailers: Capable of hauling landscaping materials, construction supplies, and equipment for various projects.
- ATVs and Motorcycles: Easily transport your off-road vehicles to trails and riding areas.
The Tacoma strikes an excellent balance between robust capability and everyday versatility, making it a compelling choice for those who need a truck that can handle both demanding tasks and daily driving with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity
Can a Tacoma really tow 6,500 pounds?
Yes, the 2024 and 2025 Toyota Tacoma models are indeed 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 with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, the maximum towing capacity is slightly lower at 6,000 pounds when correctly configured.
What Toyota Tacoma has the highest towing capacity?
For the 2025 Tacoma lineup, the SR5 XtraCab and TRD PreRunner XtraCab configurations, with either RWD or 4WD, a 6-foot bed, and the available tow package, offer the highest towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. If you are considering a pre-owned Tacoma, models from 2020 to 2023 can achieve a slightly higher maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds under optimal conditions.
What can a Toyota Tacoma tow?
With a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds, the Toyota Tacoma is a versatile towing machine. It can handle midsize trailers, pop-up and teardrop campers, various types of boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and much more. Its blend of capability and maneuverability makes it an excellent choice for both work and recreational towing needs.
What engine is in the 2025 Tacoma?
The 2025 Tacoma offers two engine choices: 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 produces 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain elevates performance to 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 pound-feet of torque.
Visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville today to explore the new Toyota Tacoma and discover the perfect trim and configuration to meet your towing demands and adventurous spirit. We are ready to answer all your questions and help you find the ideal Toyota truck for your lifestyle.
