Alt text: Front view of a red Toyota Tacoma pulling a trailer, showcasing its towing capability.
For drivers who demand a truck that can keep up with their adventurous lifestyle, the Toyota Tacoma stands out as a top contender. Known for its ruggedness and reliability, a frequently asked question is about the Toyota Tacoma Towing Weight capacity. The latest models boast a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it capable of hauling campers, boats, and various recreational vehicles. With an impressive range of eleven trim levels available for the 2025 model year, understanding which Tacoma configuration aligns with your towing needs is crucial.
This article will delve into the towing specs of the new Toyota Tacoma, spanning from the base SR trim to the premium TRD Pro. We’ll also provide a detailed chart outlining the towing capabilities of previous model years. Equip yourself with the essential information to make an informed decision, and then visit Miller Toyota to experience the ideal Tacoma trim and configuration firsthand.
2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: Key Highlights
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Achieves up to 6,500 pounds when correctly configured, providing ample power for towing mid-sized boats, campers, and utility trailers.
- Engine Choices: Powered by either the robust i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine or the advanced i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
- Payload Prowess: Designed to handle substantial cargo in 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 towing hitch receiver, enhancing towing stability and safety.
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Alt text: Side profile of a 2025 Toyota Tacoma in motion, emphasizing its performance and towing capabilities.
Unpacking the 2025 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity and Performance
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues its legacy of performance with the same advanced powertrains introduced in the 2024 model. Drivers can choose between the potent i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine and the even more powerful 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 environmental consciousness.
Transmission options for the Toyota Tacoma cater to diverse driving preferences. A six-speed manual transmission with intelligent rev-matching and anti-stall technology is available on the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a more engaged driving experience. Alternatively, an eight-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) is offered, featuring sequential shift mode and uphill/downhill shift logic for optimized performance in various terrains. The Tacoma also offers different cab configurations, including the XtraCab and Double Cab, which can influence towing dynamics and overall vehicle utility.
Regarding the crucial Toyota Tacoma towing weight figures, the 2025 models offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds² when equipped with the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. This capacity exceeds that of the Toyota Highlander, offering 1,500 pounds² more towing capability. Opting for a Tacoma with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine results in a still-impressive maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds², regardless of the specific trim level or configuration, with the exception of the Trailhunter trim. The Trailhunter, designed for off-road adventures, provides a towing capacity of up to 5,950 pounds² when configured as a Double Cab 4WD with a 6-foot bed, which slightly increases to 6,000 pounds² with a 5-foot bed.
To simplify understanding the towing capacities across the 2025 Tacoma lineup, refer to the detailed chart below. This chart breaks down the required cab style, drivetrain, and bed size necessary 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 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 maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds², regardless of configuration or drivetrain. To achieve the peak towing capacity of 6,500 pounds² for the Toyota Tacoma, prioritize the SR5 XtraCab with either RWD or 4WD, or the TRD PreRunner XtraCab with RWD, both equipped with a 6-foot bed. These configurations are specifically engineered to maximize towing performance within the Tacoma lineup.
Considering other Toyota trucks, how does the Tacoma compare to the Toyota Tundra towing capacity? While the full-size Tundra undoubtedly offers greater towing power, the Tacoma presents a more agile and city-friendly driving experience. The Tacoma’s midsize dimensions make it easier to maneuver in urban environments and navigate tighter trails, while still providing substantial towing capability for most recreational needs.
Explore a detailed comparison in our Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra article to evaluate their specs side-by-side and determine which Toyota truck best suits your specific requirements.
Toyota Tacoma Towing and Payload Capacity Across Model Years
The Toyota Tacoma has established itself as a dependable midsize truck, consistently delivering impressive towing and payload capabilities throughout its model years. Whether you’re transporting work equipment or pulling a trailer for weekend adventures, understanding the towing capacity and payload ratings for each model year will give you a clearer picture of 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 |
Alt text: Close-up of a Toyota Tacoma tow hitch receiver, highlighting the components of the tow package.
Decoding the Toyota Tacoma Tow Package
For those serious about towing, understanding the Toyota Tacoma tow package is essential. If your chosen Tacoma trim offers the Tow Package, you gain access to a suite of critical features designed to optimize your towing experience, including a robust Toyota Tacoma towing trailer hitch. Towing with confidence is ensured by the inclusion of a Class-IV towing hitch receiver and a comprehensive wiring harness with both 7-pin and 4-pin connectors, accommodating a wide range of trailer types. Beyond just the hitch, the tow package often includes other enhancements like improved cooling systems and trailer sway control, further enhancing safety and capability when hauling heavy loads. Always verify the specific contents of the tow package for your chosen trim level and model year, as contents can vary.
Alt text: Exterior of Miller Toyota dealership showcasing a row of new Toyota Tacoma trucks available for sale.
Explore the New Toyota Tacoma at Miller Toyota
Beyond its impressive Toyota Tacoma towing weight capacity, the Tacoma offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and advanced technology. From the diverse Toyota Tacoma colors to its refined interior and cutting-edge tech features, the Tacoma is designed to enhance every aspect of your driving experience. At Miller Toyota, our knowledgeable team is ready to address all your inquiries about this exceptional midsize truck. We can provide detailed clarification on the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and any other specifications that are important to your purchase decision.
Whether you’re set on the Tacoma or wish to explore other models in our extensive Toyota lineup, our new Toyota inventory is readily accessible online. We are committed to helping you find the perfect Toyota to meet your needs and budget. Our team is also available to discuss current lease and financing offers, ensuring you receive a competitive deal on your next Toyota vehicle. Visit Miller Toyota today and let us help you drive away in the Toyota of your dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Tacoma Towing
Can a Tacoma actually 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 Toyota Tacoma towing weight requires specific configurations, particularly within certain trim levels, and necessitates the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. For models equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, the maximum towing capacity is slightly less, topping out at 6,000 pounds² when correctly configured.
Which Toyota Tacoma model offers the highest towing capacity?
The maximum tow rating of 6,500 pounds² for the 2025 Tacoma is attainable with the SR5 XtraCab or TRD PreRunner XtraCab configurations, in either RWD or 4WD, and when equipped with a 6-foot bed and the available tow package. If you are considering a pre-owned Tacoma, models from 2020 to 2023 offer a slightly higher maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds when properly equipped.
What types of items can a Toyota Tacoma tow?
With a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds,² the Toyota Tacoma is versatile enough to tow a wide range of items. This includes midsize trailers, pop-up or teardrop campers for outdoor adventures, various types of boats for recreational water activities, ATVs and motorcycles for thrill-seekers, and essential work equipment for job sites. The Tacoma effectively balances robust capability with everyday usability, making it an excellent choice for both professional and recreational towing needs.
What are the engine options for the 2025 Tacoma?
The 2025 Tacoma presents two advanced engine options: the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid and the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. The standard i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine delivers 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, providing a strong balance of power and efficiency. The upgraded i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain enhances performance even further, producing 326 horsepower and a substantial 465 pound-feet of torque, combining enhanced power with improved fuel economy.
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.
