Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity (by Engine & Year)
TL;DR
Tacoma towing ranges from 3,500 lbs on base four-cylinder trims to 6,800 lbs on the highest-rated 2017-2023 V6 4x2 configuration - your exact number depends on generation, engine, cab, drivetrain and whether the tow package is installed.
Why the Tacoma's towing capacity is not one number
Toyota rates towing capacity separately for each combination of generation, engine, cab style, bed length, drivetrain (4x2 vs 4x4) and whether the factory tow package is fitted. Two Tacomas that look identical from the outside can have towing ratings that differ by more than 2,000 lbs.
Verified figures by generation
These are figures we could corroborate across manufacturer-sourced towing guides and dealer spec sheets. Where sources disagreed, we show the range.
| Generation / years | Engine and configuration | Max towing (lb / kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd gen, 2017-2023 | 3.5L V6, 4x2 (2WD) Access Cab, factory tow package | Up to 6,800 lb (~3,084 kg) |
| 3rd gen, 2016-2023 | 3.5L V6, 4x4, tow package (most cab/trim combos) | Approx. 6,400-6,500 lb (~2,903-2,948 kg) |
| 3rd gen, 2023 | 2.7L 4-cylinder, base SR (no V6) | 3,500 lb (~1,588 kg) |
| 4th gen, 2024-present | 2.4L turbo i-FORCE 4-cylinder, SR/SR5, properly equipped | Up to 6,500 lb (~2,948 kg) |
| 4th gen, 2024-present | 2.4L turbo i-FORCE, TRD Sport/Off-Road/Limited | Approx. 6,300-6,400 lb (~2,858-2,903 kg) |
| 4th gen, 2024-present | i-FORCE MAX hybrid (TRD Pro and others) | Up to 6,000 lb (~2,722 kg) |
Older generations (1995-2015)
We could not find sufficiently consistent figures for the 1st generation (1995-2004) and 2nd generation (2005-2015) Tacoma across sources to publish a specific number with confidence. Owners of these model years should read the rating directly off their own truck using the sources below rather than rely on a generic figure.
Tongue weight
Toyota's towing guides do not always publish a tongue weight figure separately from the trailer weight rating. As a general trailer-safety guideline, tongue weight should run about 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight - for a 6,500 lb trailer that is roughly 650-975 lb. Always weigh the loaded trailer and hitch rather than relying on this estimate alone.
Find your exact rating
- Driver's door jamb placard - lists GVWR, GCWR and payload for your specific truck as built
- Owner's manual towing section - has the full capacity matrix for your model year
- Manufacturer towing guide (published yearly by Toyota) - cross-references VIN-level options
- Dealer parts/service department - can look up your exact VIN's factory tow package status
Summary
| Highest verified max (3rd gen V6, 4x2, tow pkg) | 6,800 lb (3,084 kg) |
|---|---|
| 3rd gen V6, 4x4, tow pkg (typical) | 6,400-6,500 lb (2,903-2,948 kg) |
| 3rd gen 2.7L 4-cyl base SR | 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) |
| 4th gen 2.4L turbo, SR/SR5 (properly equipped) | Up to 6,500 lb (2,948 kg) |
| 4th gen i-FORCE MAX hybrid | Up to 6,000 lb (2,722 kg) |
| Typical tongue weight guideline | 10-15% of trailer weight |
| Authoritative source | Door jamb placard and owner's manual |
Full diagnostics
For the complete step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide, see Toyota Tacoma: Common Problems, Fault Codes & Repairs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Tacoma?
The highest documented figure is 6,800 lbs, achieved by 2017-2023 3rd-generation Tacomas with the 3.5L V6, 6-speed automatic, 4x2 (2WD) drivetrain, Access Cab and the factory tow package installed. 4x4 versions of the same generation and engine are typically rated lower, around 6,400-6,500 lbs, so this maximum does not apply to every V6 Tacoma.
How much can a 2024 Tacoma tow?
The 2024-and-later Tacoma with the standard 2.4L turbo i-FORCE engine can tow up to 6,500 lbs on SR/SR5 trims when properly equipped with the tow package, while TRD Sport, Off-Road and Limited trims are typically closer to 6,300-6,400 lbs. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid trims are rated lower, up to 6,000 lbs, due to the added weight of the hybrid battery and motor.
Do all Tacomas come with a tow package?
No. Many Tacoma trims list a factory tow package (upgraded radiator, transmission cooler, wiring harness and hitch receiver) as an option, and the maximum advertised towing figure only applies once that package is installed. A Tacoma without the tow package will be rated for less than the number quoted in most marketing materials.
Where can I find the exact towing capacity for my specific Tacoma?
Check the certification placard on the driver's door jamb for your truck's GVWR and GCWR, read the towing chapter of your owner's manual, or ask a Toyota dealer to look up your VIN. These are the only sources that reflect your exact combination of engine, cab, drivetrain and options.