For those whose adventures call for bringing along a camper, boat, or trailer, the Toyota Tacoma stands ready to answer. The latest models of this celebrated mid-size pickup truck boast a robust maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it an ideal partner for work and play. With a diverse lineup of eleven trim levels for the 2025 model year, understanding which Tacoma configuration best meets your towing needs is key.
This guide will delve into the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity across its range, from the entry-level SR to the off-road-ready TRD Pro. We’ll also provide a helpful chart detailing the towing capabilities of recent Tacoma model years. Equip yourself with the knowledge you need to choose the perfect Tacoma for your lifestyle.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: Performance Overview
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Achieving up to 6,500 pounds of towing capability, certain 2025 Toyota Tacoma models are well-suited for hauling mid-sized boats, campers, and various utility trailers.
- Engine Choices: The 2025 Tacoma offers two powerful engine options: the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the upgraded i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
- Payload Prowess: Beyond towing, the Tacoma capably manages heavy cargo within its bed, offering a maximum payload capacity of 1,705 pounds1 on the TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX trim.
- Advanced Towing Technology: To enhance towing confidence and safety, the Tacoma incorporates features like Trailer-Sway Control and an available Towing Package, which includes a Class-IV towing hitch receiver.
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Breaking Down the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity & Performance
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues to leverage the advanced powertrains introduced in the 2024 model year: the efficient i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine and the even more potent 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, providing ample power for everyday driving and towing tasks. For those seeking enhanced 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 boosts power but also contributes to improved fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions.
Transmission options for the Tacoma include a refined eight-speed Electronically Controlled automatic transmission with intelligence (ECT-i), featuring sequential shift mode and intelligent uphill/downhill shift logic. Enthusiasts of manual transmissions 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. Furthermore, the choice between XtraCab and Double Cab configurations can influence the Tacoma’s overall towing dynamics.
Notably, 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 represents a significant 1,500 pounds2 advantage over the Toyota Highlander towing capacity, highlighting the Tacoma’s dedicated truck capabilities. Tacoma models featuring the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when properly configured, across most trims. A slight variation exists for the Trailhunter trim, which tows up to 5,950 pounds2 as a Double Cab 4WD with a 6-foot bed, and slightly increases to 6,000 pounds2 with a 5-foot bed.
To understand the specific towing capabilities across the 2025 Tacoma lineup, consult the detailed chart below. This chart outlines the necessary cab style, drivetrain, and bed size configurations to achieve the maximum towing weight for each Toyota Tacoma trim level in 2025.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity Chart: Trim by Trim
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Cab Style | Bed Size | Drivetrain | Max Towing2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
For the entry-level SR model, the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity is capped at 3,500 pounds2 regardless of configuration. To unlock the maximum 6,500 pounds2 towing capacity, consider the SR5 XtraCab (available in RWD or 4WD) or the TRD PreRunner XtraCab (RWD), both requiring the 6-foot bed configuration.
Considering a full-size truck? It’s natural to compare the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity to that of the larger Toyota Tundra towing capacity. While the Tundra undeniably offers greater towing power, the Tacoma presents a more maneuverable and city-friendly driving experience.
To help you decide which Toyota truck aligns best with your needs, explore our detailed Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra comparison, where you can examine their specifications side-by-side.
Toyota Tacoma Towing and Payload Through the Years
The Toyota Tacoma has solidified its reputation as a dependable mid-size truck, consistently delivering commendable towing and payload capabilities over the years. Whether your tasks involve hauling equipment to job sites or towing recreational trailers for weekend escapes, understanding the historical towing capacity and payload ratings across different model years provides valuable insight into the Tacoma’s enduring capability.
| Model Year | Max Towing2 | Max Payload1 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Unpacking the Toyota Tacoma Tow Package
For owners planning to utilize their Tacoma for towing, the available Tow Package is a crucial addition. This package equips your Tacoma with essential components, including a robust Toyota Tacoma towing trailer hitch. The Tow Package provides confidence and capability for towing trailers or campers, featuring a Class-IV towing hitch receiver and a wiring harness complete with 7-pin/4-pin connectors. These connectors ensure seamless integration with trailer lighting and braking systems, enhancing towing safety and convenience.
Explore the New Toyota Tacoma at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville
Beyond its impressive towing prowess, the Toyota Tacoma offers a spectrum of appealing features, from the vibrant Toyota Tacoma colors to its comfortable and well-appointed interior and cutting-edge technology. At DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville, our knowledgeable team is ready to address all your inquiries about this versatile mid-size truck. We can provide detailed clarifications on the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and any other specifications you may need.
Whether the Tacoma has captured your interest or you wish to explore our broader inventory of SUVs and trucks, our extensive new Toyota inventory online provides a convenient platform for comparison. We are also pleased to discuss various lease and financing options to assist you in securing an attractive deal on your next Toyota vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Tacoma Towing
Is the Toyota Tacoma actually 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 when properly equipped. Achieving this maximum towing capacity necessitates specific trim levels and configurations, along with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. Models equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds2 when correctly configured.
Which Toyota Tacoma model offers the highest towing capacity?
The peak towing capacity of 6,500 pounds2 for the 2025 Tacoma is attainable with the SR5 XtraCab or TRD PreRunner XtraCab, in either RWD or 4WD configurations, when equipped with a 6-foot bed and the optional tow package. For those considering pre-owned Tacomas, model years 2020 through 2023 provide a slightly higher maximum towing capacity of 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 pounds2, the Toyota Tacoma is well-suited for towing a wide array of items. This includes mid-size trailers, pop-up and teardrop campers, various types of boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and utility trailers. The Tacoma strikes an excellent balance between robust capability and everyday versatility, making it a compelling choice for both work-related tasks and recreational pursuits.
What are the engine options for the 2025 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2025 Tacoma presents two advanced engine choices: the standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine and the upgraded 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, offering enhanced power and 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.
