How Much Can a Toyota Tacoma Tow?

The 2024 Tacoma has a wide range of towing abilities.

Chris O'Neill | 

Jul 30, 2024 | 3 min read

Toyota

The Toyota Tacoma underwent a full redesign for the 2024 model year, marking the introduction of its fourth generation. It now rides on a new platform shared with Toyota's other body-on-frame trucks and SUVs, and it features an all-new powertrain.

The redesigned Tacoma also offers updated tow ratings ranging from 3,500 pounds to 6,500 pounds. Different trims offer specific tow ratings.

Tacoma SR With an Automatic Transmission

Every 2024 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with an i-Force-branded turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, available in three different power outputs. Base automatic transmission SR models produce 228 horsepower and are offered in rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive configurations, with either a two-door XtraCab or four-door Double Cab.

When equipped with an automatic transmission, the Tacoma SR can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is lower than other configurations.

This towing capacity is adequate for hauling kayak and canoe trailers, personal watercraft, motorcycles, small fishing boats, small open utility trailers, smaller teardrop camping trailers, and some enclosed utility trailers.

Notably, 4WD Tacoma SR Double Cab models are available with a six-speed manual transmission. These models share the higher power output of other non-SR, nonhybrid trims and boast a towing capacity of 6,400 pounds.

Other Nonhybrid Tacomas

The Tacoma's SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited trims feature a more potent version of the turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine delivers 278 horsepower when paired with an automatic transmission or 270 horsepower with a manual transmission.

The lineup includes a two-door XtraCab model with a 6-foot bed and a Double Cab model, typically with a 5-foot bed, although SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road Double Cab models can be fitted with a 6-foot bed.

The towing capacity varies based on the cab configuration. XtraCab models are rated for 6,500 pounds, while most Double Cab models are rated for 6,400 pounds. Exceptions include TRD Off-Road models equipped with an automatic transmission and a 5-foot bed, and Limited models, both rated for 6,300 pounds.

This range accommodates loads such as utility trailers, most wake boats up to 20 feet long, and most small travel trailers, including teardrops, pop-ups, and medium-sized overland-ready styles.

Tacoma i-Force Max Models

The 2024 Tacoma i-Force Max models feature the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine supplemented by a hybrid system, providing a total output of 326 horsepower. i-Force Max powertrain options are available for TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited models, while the Trailhunter and TRD Pro models come standard with this setup.

i-Force Max hybrid models come standard with four-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a Double Cab. Most examples come with a 5-foot bed and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The exception is the Trailhunter, which can be optioned with a 6-foot bed, in which case its towing capacity drops to 5,950 pounds.

Overall, the Tacoma i-Force Max hybrid models are slightly below their nonhybrid counterparts in terms of towing capacity, but they remain capable of towing a variety of trailers similar to their nonhybrid counterparts.

Chris O'Neill

I am an auto-industry veteran and a current MBA candidate at the University of Utah. After moving to Utah in October 2015 and being fascinated by the unique car culture of the region, I started an Instagram project highlighting the rare and distinctive vehicles I see in the Mountain West region. I enjoy sharing with others my unique perspective and passion for all things automotive. In my free time, when I’m not thinking and writing about cars, I enjoy photography, toying with my 2011 Volkswagen GTI and 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser, and exploring Utah with my girlfriend and two dogs.