Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity | 20+ Years of Data
In the world of pickup trucks, the Toyota Tacoma has garnered a reputation for its robust resilience, versatility, and towing prowess. This article explores the evolution of Toyota Tacoma’s towing capacity, a vital aspect often scrutinized by potential buyers and automobile enthusiasts alike.
From its inception to the present day, the Tacoma has demonstrated a variety of towing capacities shaped by factors such as engine type, drivetrain, transmission, and more.
As we dive into this comprehensive review, we’ll offer you a year-by-year, motor-by-motor breakdown, providing insights into how this iconic vehicle has adapted and grown.
Whether you’re a potential buyer assessing the Tacoma’s capabilities or an auto-enthusiast hungry for knowledge, this deep dive into Toyota Tacoma’s towing capacity promises to inform and engage you.
Understanding Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity
If you’re looking for a midsize pickup truck with impressive towing capabilities, the Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice. With a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped, the Tacoma is a powerful and reliable vehicle for hauling heavy loads.
To understand how much weight your Toyota Tacoma can tow, you need to consider several factors. These include the engine type, transmission, drivetrain, axle ratio, and other features that affect towing capacity.
The Tacoma comes with two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The V6 engine provides more power and towing capacity, making it a better choice for heavy-duty towing.
The Tacoma comes with a towing package that includes a Class IV receiver hitch, transmission cooler, and engine oil cooler.
To determine your Toyota Tacoma’s maximum towing capacity, refer to the owner’s manual as the ultimate authority. The maximum towing capacity varies depending on your vehicle’s year, model, and configuration.
It’s important to note that towing capacity is not the same as payload capacity. Payload capacity refers to the amount of weight that your vehicle can carry in the bed and cab. Exceeding the payload capacity can cause damage to your vehicle and compromise safety.
The Toyota Tacoma is a capable and powerful midsize pickup truck with impressive towing capacity.
To determine the maximum weight you can tow with your Tacoma, you need to consider several factors, including the engine type, transmission, drivetrain, and other features.
Always refer to the owner’s manual or contact your local Toyota dealer for accurate towing capacity information.
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Tacoma Towing Capacity Chart (Year by Year)
Here is a comprehensive table about the Toyota Tacoma:
| Year of Manufacture | Motor/Engine Type | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Drivetrain | Transmission | Cab Type | Bed Length | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Curb Weight | Fuel Type and Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Gas V6 | 6,800 lbs | 1,685 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 4,120 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2022 | Gas V6 | 6,800 lbs | 1,685 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 4,120 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2021 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,800 lbs | 1,120-1,685 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2020 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,800 lbs | 1,120-1,685 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| Year of Manufacture | Motor/Engine Type | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Drivetrain | Transmission | Cab Type | Bed Length | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Curb Weight | Fuel Type and Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,800 lbs | 1,120-1,685 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2018 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,800 lbs | 1,120-1,620 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2017 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,800 lbs | 1,120-1,620 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2016 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,800 lbs | 1,120-1,620 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| Year of Manufacture | Motor/Engine Type | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Drivetrain | Transmission | Cab Type | Bed Length | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Curb Weight | Fuel Type and Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,120-1,620 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 5-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2014 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,120-1,620 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 6-speed automatic or 5-speed manual | Access Cab or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,600 lbs | 3,980-4,425 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2013 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,120-1,535 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed automatic or 4-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2012 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,120-1,535 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed automatic or 4-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| Year of Manufacture | Motor/Engine Type | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Drivetrain | Transmission | Cab Type | Bed Length | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Curb Weight | Fuel Type and Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed automatic or 4-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2010 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2009 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2008 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| Year of Manufacture | Motor/Engine Type | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Drivetrain | Transmission | Cab Type | Bed Length | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Curb Weight | Fuel Type and Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2006 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2005 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
| 2004 | Gas V6 or 4-Cylinder | 3,500-6,500 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 4×2 or 4×4 | 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic | Regular Cab, Access Cab, or Double Cab | 5′ or 6’1″ | 5,350-5,600 lbs | 3,415-4,045 lbs | Regular Unleaded, 18-21 mpg combined |
Engine Options and Towing Capabilities
When it comes to engine options, the Toyota Tacoma offers two choices: the less powerful 2.7L 4-cylinder engine and the more powerful 3.5L V6 engine. The 2.7L 4-cylinder engine is standard in SR and SR5 trims, while the V6 engine is available in all other trims.
The 2.7L 4-cylinder engine provides 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
This engine is ideal for those who need a truck for light-duty tasks or everyday driving.
If you need a more powerful engine, the 3.5L V6 engine is the way to go. It provides 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, making it the more capable option for towing and hauling.
This engine is available with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission in TRD models. With the V6 engine, the Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds.
Both engine options feature direct injection, which provides improved fuel efficiency and power delivery. The V6 engine features Atkinson-cycle combustion for even greater efficiency.
Overall, the engine options in the Toyota Tacoma provide a good balance between power and efficiency, with the V6 engine being the more powerful choice for those who need to tow or haul heavier loads.
Transmission Types and Their Impact on Towing
When it comes to towing with your Toyota Tacoma, the type of transmission you have can make a big difference.
The Tacoma offers both automatic and manual transmissions, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Automatic Transmission
If you have an automatic transmission, you’ll appreciate its convenience and ease of use.
Automatic transmissions are great for stop-and-go traffic and make handling steep inclines and declines easy. However, they do have some limitations when it comes to towing.
One of the biggest concerns with automatic transmissions is overheating. When towing heavy loads, your transmission can get hot, which can cause damage and reduce its lifespan.
To combat this, you may want to consider installing a transmission cooler.
A transmission cooler will help keep your transmission fluid at a safe temperature, which can help prevent overheating and prolong the life of your transmission.
Manual Transmission
If you prefer a more hands-on driving experience, a manual transmission may be better for you.
Manual transmissions provide greater control over your vehicle and can be more fun to drive. They also tend to be more reliable and require less maintenance than automatic transmissions.
However, manual transmissions can be more difficult to use when towing. You’ll need to be able to shift gears smoothly and quickly, which can be a challenge when you’re towing a heavy load.
Additionally, manual transmissions don’t have torque converters, which means they don’t provide as much torque as automatic transmissions.
Transmission Cooler and Engine Oil Cooler
Whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, you may want to consider installing a transmission cooler and an engine oil cooler.
These coolers will help keep your transmission and engine fluids at safe temperatures, which can help prevent damage and prolong the life of your vehicle.
In conclusion, when it comes to towing with your Toyota Tacoma, the type of transmission you have can make a big difference. Automatic transmissions are convenient and easy to use, but can overheat when towing heavy loads.
Manual transmissions provide greater control and reliability, but can be more difficult to use when towing.
Regardless of which transmission you have, installing a transmission cooler and engine oil cooler can help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
Exploring Tacoma Cab and Bed Variations
When it comes to towing capacity, the Toyota Tacoma offers a lot of versatility with its different cab and bed configurations.
You can choose between the Double Cab and Access Cab, each with its own unique advantages.
The Double Cab offers more interior space and four full-size doors, while the Access Cab has smaller rear-hinged doors and additional storage space behind the front seats.
Another important factor to consider is bed length. The Tacoma comes in both short and long bed options, with the short bed measuring at 5 feet and the long bed at 6 feet. The bed length you choose will depend on your specific towing needs and how much cargo space you require.
It’s important to note that the different cab and bed variations can affect your towing capacity.
For example, the Double Cab with a short bed has a maximum towing capacity of 6,400 pounds, while the Double Cab with a long bed can tow up to 6,500 pounds.
The Access Cab with a short bed has a slightly lower towing capacity of 6,400 pounds, while the Access Cab with a long bed can also tow up to 6,500 pounds.
Overall, the Tacoma’s different cab and bed variations provide a lot of flexibility for towing and hauling.
You can maximize your towing capacity and get the most out of your Tacoma by choosing the right combination for your needs.
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Tacoma Trim Levels and Towing Capacity
When it comes to the Toyota Tacoma, there are several trim levels to choose from, each with its own unique features and towing capacity.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the different Tacoma trim levels and their respective towing capabilities.
SR Trim
The SR trim is the base model of the Tacoma, and it comes with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine.
This engine has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, which is suitable for light-duty towing. If you plan to tow heavier loads, you may want to consider a higher trim level.
SR5 Trim
The SR5 trim is a step up from the base model and comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine has a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds, which is suitable for medium-duty towing.
The SR5 trim also comes with additional features such as a 7-inch touchscreen display, a backup camera, and more.
TRD Sport Trim
The TRD Sport trim is designed for those who want a more sporty and performance-oriented Tacoma.
It comes with the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as the SR5 trim but has additional features such as sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and more.
The TRD Sport trim has a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds, making it suitable for medium-duty towing.
TRD Off-Road Trim
The TRD Off-Road trim is designed for those who enjoy off-roading and want a Tacoma that can handle rough terrain.
It comes with the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as the SR5 and TRD Sport trims but has additional features such as crawl control, multi-terrain select, and more.
The TRD Off-Road trim has a towing capacity of up to 6,400 pounds, making it suitable for medium-duty towing.
Limited Trim
The Limited trim is the top-of-the-line Tacoma, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It has a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds, making it suitable for medium-duty towing.
The Limited trim also comes with additional features such as leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and more.
TRD Pro Trim
The TRD Pro trim is designed for those who want the ultimate off-road Tacoma. It comes with the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as the other higher trim levels, but it also has additional features such as TRD-tuned Fox shocks, a TRD skid plate, and more.
The TRD Pro trim has a towing capacity of up to 6,400 pounds, making it suitable for medium-duty towing.
Overall, the different Tacoma trim levels offer a range of towing capabilities to suit your needs. Whether you need to tow light or heavy loads, a Tacoma trim level can handle the job.
Tow Package Features and Benefits
If you plan to tow heavy loads with your Toyota Tacoma, you’ll want to consider getting the available Tow Package. This package includes several features that can make your towing experience smoother and safer.
One of the key components of the Tow Package is the receiver hitch. This hitch is designed to fit your Tacoma perfectly and provide a secure connection between your truck and the trailer.
With the Tow Package, you can tow up to 6,800 pounds, which is more than enough for most recreational trailers and boats.
Another benefit of the Tow Package is the heavy-duty battery. When you’re towing, your truck’s electrical system has to work harder to power the trailer’s lights and brakes.
The heavy-duty battery included in the Tow Package is designed to handle this extra load and ensure that your truck starts reliably every time.
In addition to the receiver hitch and heavy-duty battery, the Tow Package also includes Trailer-Sway Control (TSC).
This feature uses sensors to detect when your trailer is swaying and applies the brakes selectively to bring it back into line. This can be especially helpful when you’re towing on windy roads or in gusty conditions.
The Tow Package is a great investment if you plan to tow heavy loads with your Toyota Tacoma. It includes several features that can make your towing experience safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.
If you’re not sure whether you need the Tow Package, talk to your Toyota dealer and they can help you decide if it’s right for you.
Understanding Weight Ratings
When towing with your Toyota Tacoma, it’s important to understand weight ratings.
These ratings are crucial to ensure that you don’t exceed the maximum weight capacity of your vehicle and trailer. Here are some key weight ratings to keep in mind:
- Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings: This is the maximum weight that your Tacoma can tow. It’s important to note that this weight includes the weight of the trailer and its contents. The maximum trailer weight rating for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma ranges from 3,500 pounds to 6,800 pounds depending on the truck specifications.
- Maximum Tow Ratings: This is the maximum weight that your Tacoma can tow, including the weight of the vehicle and the trailer. The maximum tow rating for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma ranges from 3,500 pounds to 6,800 pounds.
- Maximum Weight Ratings: This is the maximum weight that your Tacoma can carry, including passengers, cargo, and tongue weight. The maximum weight rating for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma ranges from 1,155 pounds to 1,685 pounds.
- Gross Trailer Weight: This is the total weight of your trailer and its contents. It’s important to ensure that your gross trailer weight does not exceed your Tacoma’s maximum trailer weight rating.
It’s important to note that exceeding weight ratings can be dangerous and cause damage to your vehicle. Always check the weight ratings of your Tacoma and trailer before towing.
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Test Drive a Toyota Tacoma
If you’re interested in the towing capacity of the Toyota Tacoma, you may want to test drive one. This will allow you to experience the truck’s performance and handling firsthand.
To schedule a test drive, you can visit your local Toyota dealership. They will have new Toyota Tacoma inventory available for you to choose from. You can also check their website to see what’s currently in stock.
When you arrive at the dealership, a sales representative will greet you and ask about your needs and preferences. They can help you select a Tacoma model that meets your towing requirements and fits your budget.
During the test drive, you’ll see how the truck performs on the road.
You can test the acceleration, braking, and handling to understand how it will handle your towing needs. You can also try out the various features and technologies of the truck.
After the test drive, the sales representative can answer questions about the truck and the buying process.
They can also provide information about financing options if you want to purchase the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the towing capacity of a 2023 Toyota Tacoma V6?
With the standard V6 Tow Package, a 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6800 lbs. However, the towing capacity may vary depending on the model and configuration. Please refer to your Owner’s Manual for more towing details or contact your Toyota dealer for further information about additional requirements such as a towing kit, etc.
How much weight can a Toyota Tacoma TRD tow?
The towing capacity of a Toyota Tacoma TRD varies depending on the model and configuration. With the standard V6 Tow Package, the Tacoma TRD can tow up to 6800 lbs. However, the towing capacity may vary depending on the model and configuration. Please refer to your Owner’s Manual for more towing details or contact your Toyota dealer for further information about additional requirements such as a towing kit, etc.
Which Toyota Tacoma model can tow up to 6800 lbs?
The Toyota Tacoma V6 with the standard V6 Tow Package can tow up to 6800 lbs. This includes the Tacoma TRD, Tacoma SR, Tacoma SR5, Tacoma Limited, and Tacoma TRD Pro models.
What is the maximum payload capacity of a Toyota Tacoma?
The maximum payload capacity of a Toyota Tacoma varies depending on the model and configuration. However, the maximum payload capacity can range from 1440 lbs to 1620 lbs. Please refer to your Owner’s Manual for more payload details or contact your Toyota dealer for further information.
Can a Toyota Tacoma tow a 7000 lb trailer?
No, a Toyota Tacoma cannot tow a 7000 lb trailer. The maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Tacoma is 6800 lbs with the standard V6 Tow Package. Exceeding the maximum towing capacity can cause damage to the vehicle and create a safety hazard.
How does the towing capacity of a Toyota Tacoma compare to a Chevy Colorado?
The towing capacity of a Toyota Tacoma and a Chevy Colorado varies depending on the model and configuration. However, in general, the Toyota Tacoma has a higher towing capacity than the Chevy Colorado. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6800 lbs with the standard V6 Tow Package, while the 2023 Chevy Colorado can tow up to 7000 lbs with the available Duramax 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine. However, it is important to note that the towing capacity may vary depending on the model and configuration. Please refer to the Owner’s Manual or contact your dealer for more information.