Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity (All Years 2005-2024)

Rebbeca Jones

Rebbeca Jones

The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck produced since 1995. It is available in multiple cab styles, bed lengths, and engine configurations.

This guide covers Toyota Tacoma towing capacity by year, including maximum trailer weight, payload capacity, GCWR, and required equipment. Towing limits vary based on engine configuration, drivetrain, and factory tow package.

Following manufacturer towing specifications helps protect the transmission, brakes, and cooling system during heavy towing.

Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

2024 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.4L turbocharged I4
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,500 lbs (2,948 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,500 lbs (2,948 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,709 lbs (775 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit650 lbs (295 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 lbs when properly equipped. Models with the 2.4L turbocharged engine and tow package provide the highest trailer weight limit. Staying within rated towing limits supports drivetrain durability and braking performance.


2023 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,685 lbs (764 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offers up to 6,800 lbs of towing capacity with the 3.5L V6 engine and tow package. Four-cylinder models provide lower maximum trailer weight ratings. Proper hitch class and trailer brakes are required for heavy loads.


2022 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,685 lbs (764 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma maintains a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 lbs in V6 configurations. Towing specifications depend on drivetrain and cab style. The factory tow package includes upgraded cooling and trailer wiring support.


2021 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,685 lbs (764 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs with the V6 engine and appropriate towing equipment. Payload capacity and GCWR must be considered when calculating total towing limits. Proper weight distribution improves stability under load.


2020 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,620 lbs (735 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma delivers a maximum trailer weight rating of 6,800 lbs in properly equipped V6 trims. Four-cylinder versions offer lower towing capacity. Trailer brake controllers are recommended for loads above 3,500 lbs.


2019 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,620 lbs (735 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma reaches 6,800 lbs of maximum towing capacity with the 3.5L V6. Drivetrain selection and axle ratio affect overall towing specifications. GCWR must not be exceeded when fully loaded.


2018 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,620 lbs (735 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2018 Toyota Tacoma maintains the same 6,800 lb towing capacity in V6 trims. Engine configuration and cab layout influence payload capacity. Towing equipment should match the rated hitch class.


2017 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,620 lbs (735 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma provides up to 6,800 lbs of maximum trailer weight with the V6 engine. Proper trailer brakes are required for heavier loads. Always verify GCWR and payload capacity before towing.


2016 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 3.5L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,800 lbs (3,084 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,620 lbs (735 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,360 lbs (5,152 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit680 lbs (308 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma marked the start of the third generation with updated towing specifications. V6 models achieve the highest towing capacity ratings. Transmission cooling and tow package equipment support heavy-duty towing.


2015 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 4.0L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,500 lbs (2,948 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,500 lbs (2,948 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload Capacity1,440 lbs (653 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)11,100 lbs (5,035 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit650 lbs (295 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 lbs with the 4.0L V6 engine. Four-cylinder variants provide reduced towing limits. Hitch class and trailer brake requirements remain consistent.


2005–2014 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity

SpecificationDetail
Engine Options2.7L I4 / 4.0L V6
Drivetrain2WD / 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity6,500 lbs (2,948 kg)
Conventional Towing Capacity6,500 lbs (2,948 kg)
Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck CapacityN/A
Maximum Payload CapacityUp to 1,650 lbs (748 kg)
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)Up to 11,100 lbs (5,035 kg)
Tongue Weight Limit650 lbs (295 kg)
Hitch ClassClass IV
Factory Tow PackageOptional

Second-generation Toyota Tacoma models from 2005 through 2014 offer up to 6,500 lbs of maximum trailer weight when equipped with the 4.0L V6. Exact towing specifications vary by cab style and drivetrain. Always confirm towing limits using the specific model year owner documentation.


Towing Equipment and Setup Tips

Proper towing equipment is required to safely reach the rated Toyota Tacoma towing capacity.

A factory tow package typically includes a hitch receiver, wiring harness, engine oil cooler, and transmission cooler. These components help manage heat under load.

A trailer brake controller is necessary when towing heavier trailers with electric trailer brakes. This improves stopping performance and reduces brake wear.

A weight-distributing hitch can improve axle load balance when towing near maximum trailer weight. This setup increases stability and steering control.

Tire load ratings must meet or exceed payload capacity and tongue weight limits. Overloaded tires reduce braking performance and handling.

Trailer sway control systems improve directional stability during crosswinds or emergency maneuvers.

Setup TypeEquipment Included
Standard TowingHitch receiver, wiring harness
Heavy TowingTow package, trailer brakes, weight distribution hitch, transmission cooler

FAQs

What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Tacoma?

The maximum Toyota Tacoma towing capacity reaches 6,800 lbs in V6-equipped third-generation models. Earlier and base engine configurations provide lower maximum trailer weight ratings.

How much can a Toyota Tacoma tow with a tow package?

With the factory tow package and V6 engine, most 2016–2023 Tacoma models can tow up to 6,800 lbs. Proper hitch class and trailer brakes are required for heavy loads.

Does 4WD affect Toyota Tacoma towing capacity?

Four-wheel drive models generally maintain similar towing capacity ratings as 2WD versions. Payload capacity and curb weight differences may slightly reduce available trailer weight.

What trailer weight is safe for a Toyota Tacoma?

Safe trailer weight depends on engine configuration, drivetrain, GCWR, and payload capacity. Operators should remain below rated maximum trailer weight and tongue weight limits.

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Toyota Tacoma?

A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when towing near maximum trailer weight limits. It improves front axle load balance and enhances stability.


Conclusion

Toyota Tacoma towing capacity ranges from approximately 6,500 to 6,800 lbs depending on model year and configuration. Engine selection, drivetrain, and factory tow package significantly affect towing specifications.

Payload capacity, GCWR, and tongue weight must be considered when calculating safe trailer weight. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual before towing heavy loads.

Rebbeca Jones
About the author
Rebbeca Jones
Rebbeca Jones leads the detailing department at CarsCounsel, bringing 12 years of experience in automotive aesthetics.

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