2024 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity: Built for Adventure and Heavy Loads

Overview

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is a standout in the midsize pickup truck segment, offering a blend of rugged capability, modern technology, and versatile towing performance. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Tacoma is ideal for towing small to midsize trailers, boats, or recreational gear, making it a favorite for weekend adventurers and small business owners alike. Completely redesigned for 2024, the Tacoma introduces new turbocharged engines, advanced towing features, and a refined ride, positioning it as a strong competitor against rivals like the Ford Ranger (up to 7,500 pounds), Chevrolet Colorado (up to 7,700 pounds), and Nissan Frontier (up to 6,640 pounds). Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F body-on-frame platform, the Tacoma combines durability with improved on-road comfort, appealing to both work-focused drivers and outdoor enthusiasts. This blog post dives into the 2024 Tacoma’s towing capacities, features, and real-world insights to help you decide if it’s the right truck for your towing needs.

Towing Capacity by Configuration

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma’s towing capacity varies by trim, engine, drivetrain, cab style, bed length, and whether the Towing Package is equipped. Available in eight trims—SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro—the Tacoma offers two cab styles (XtraCab and Double Cab), two bed lengths (5-foot and 6-foot), and two powertrains: the i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 and the i-FORCE MAX 2.4L turbocharged hybrid. The maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds is achieved with the i-FORCE engine, specific configurations, and the Towing Package. Below is a breakdown of towing capacities by configuration:

Trim	Engine	Drivetrain	Cab/Bed	Max Towing Capacity (lbs)	Notes
SR	2.4L Turbo I4 (228 hp)	4×2/4×4	XtraCab/6-ft, Double Cab/5-ft	3,500	Base trim; limited towing without Towing Package
SR5	2.4L Turbo I4 (278 hp)	4×2/4×4	XtraCab/6-ft	6,500	Max capacity with Towing Package, 4×2, and 6-ft bed
TRD PreRunner	2.4L Turbo I4 (278 hp)	4×2	XtraCab/6-ft	6,500	Max capacity with Towing Package; rear-wheel drive only
TRD Sport	2.4L Turbo I4 (278 hp)	4×2/4×4	Double Cab/5-ft or 6-ft	6,400	Requires Towing Package; slightly lower with 4×4
TRD Off-Road	2.4L Turbo I4 (278 hp)	4×4	Double Cab/5-ft or 6-ft	6,400	Towing Package standard; optimized for off-road towing
Limited	2.4L Turbo I4 (278 hp)	4×2/4×4	Double Cab/5-ft	6,300	Towing Package standard; premium trim with towing capability
Trailhunter	i-FORCE MAX Hybrid (326 hp)	4×4	Double Cab/5-ft or 6-ft	6,000 / 5,950	Hybrid; 6,000 lbs with 5-ft bed, 5,950 lbs with 6-ft bed
TRD Pro	i-FORCE MAX Hybrid (326 hp)	4×4	Double Cab/5-ft	6,000	Hybrid; Towing Package standard; off-road focus

The SR5 XtraCab 4×2 and TRD PreRunner XtraCab 4×2 with the 6-foot bed and Towing Package achieve the maximum 6,500-pound towing capacity. Hybrid models (Trailhunter, TRD Pro, and select TRD Sport/Off-Road/Limited) are capped at 6,000 pounds (or 5,950 pounds for Trailhunter with a 6-foot bed) due to the added weight of the hybrid system. Always consult Toyota’s official towing guide for precise capacities based on your configuration.

What Affects Towing Capacity?

Several factors contribute to the 2024 Toyota Tacoma’s towing performance, balancing power, stability, and safety.

• Engine Specs: The Tacoma offers two powertrains:
  • i-FORCE 2.4L Turbo Inline-4: Produces 228 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque (SR) or 278 hp and 317 lb-ft (other trims). This engine delivers the maximum 6,500-pound towing capacity in specific configurations, offering strong low-end torque for towing midsize loads.
  • i-FORCE MAX 2.4L Turbo Hybrid: Combines a 2.4L turbo engine with a 48-hp electric motor, yielding 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Despite higher power, its towing capacity is limited to 6,000 pounds due to the hybrid system’s added weight.
• Transmission and Axle Ratio: The i-FORCE engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual (available on TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and SR), while the i-FORCE MAX uses an 8-speed automatic with ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence). The axle ratio (typically 3.58 or 4.30 on off-road trims) optimizes torque delivery for towing. The Tow/Haul mode adjusts shift patterns to maintain power and reduce gear hunting, enhancing control under load.
• Towing Package and Tow/Haul Mode: The Towing Package, standard on most trims except the SR XtraCab 4×2, includes a Class IV hitch receiver, 7-pin/4-pin wiring harness, ATF cooler (automatic models), engine oil cooler, power steering cooler, and a 130-amp alternator. This package is essential for achieving maximum towing capacity and ensuring safe operation. Tow/Haul mode, accessible via the drive mode selector, optimizes performance for heavy loads.
• Suspension, Chassis, and Braking System: Built on the TNGA-F body-on-frame platform with a high-strength steel frame and aluminum upper body, the Tacoma offers durability for towing. The SR, SR5 XtraCab, and TRD PreRunner use leaf-spring rear suspension, while other trims feature a multi-link coil spring setup for improved ride quality. The coil spring suspension reduces bounce when towing but may sag under heavy loads without a weight-distributing hitch. Four-wheel disc brakes and an integrated trailer brake controller (available on higher trims) enhance stopping power.
• Smart Towing Technologies: The Tacoma includes advanced towing aids:
  • Trailer Sway Control: Automatically applies brakes to stabilize trailers in windy conditions or during sudden maneuvers.
  • Trailer Backup Guide with Straight Path Assist: Uses cameras to assist in reversing, maintaining a straight path.
  • Blind Spot Monitor with Trailer Coverage: Extends detection to the trailer’s length for enhanced safety.
  • 360-Degree Camera System: Provides a top-down view for hitching and maneuvering.
  • Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Ensures coordinated braking between truck and trailer (standard on higher trims).
  • Digital Rearview Mirror: Offers a clear view when the bed is loaded or a trailer is attached.

These features make the Tacoma a capable and user-friendly towing vehicle, particularly for midsize loads.

Payload Capacity and Its Impact

Payload capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can carry in its bed, including passengers, cargo, and the trailer’s tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the trailer’s weight). The 2024 Toyota Tacoma’s payload capacity ranges from approximately 1,105 to 1,710 pounds, depending on the trim, cab, bed, and drivetrain:

• SR (XtraCab/Double Cab): Up to 1,685 pounds / 1,445 pounds.
• SR5 (XtraCab/Double Cab): Up to 1,705 pounds / 1,620 pounds.
• TRD PreRunner (XtraCab): Up to 1,675 pounds.
• TRD Sport (Double Cab): Up to 1,700 pounds.
• TRD Off-Road (Double Cab): Up to 1,709 pounds (i-FORCE MAX).
• Limited (Double Cab): Up to 1,590 pounds.
• Trailhunter (Double Cab): Up to 1,710 pounds.
• TRD Pro (Double Cab): Up to 1,710 pounds.

Payload affects towing because the tongue weight reduces available payload for other cargo. For example, towing a 6,500-pound trailer with a 15% tongue weight (975 pounds) leaves 130–735 pounds for passengers and gear, depending on the trim. Exceeding payload limits can cause suspension sag, reduced handling, and safety risks. The Tacoma’s bed, constructed with a durable Sheet-Molded Composite (SMC) surface and available in 5-foot or 6-foot lengths, enhances payload versatility, with features like a 2400W AC power supply and lockable storage. Always verify the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR, approximately 5,600–6,200 pounds) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR, up to 11,350 pounds) to avoid overloading.

Insights From the Web and Social Media

Real-world feedback from owners and experts highlights the 2024 Tacoma’s towing strengths and limitations:

• Real-World Towing: Edmunds tested a 2024 Tacoma TRD Off-Road towing a 5,300-pound trailer (a BMW Z3 M Roadster on a U-Haul trailer) over a 2,000-mile trip through the Rocky Mountains, reporting that the truck “barely squatted” and handled steep grades without exceeding 3,000 rpm. Fuel economy dropped to 14–17 mpg, expected for heavy towing. Owners on TacomaWorld.com report towing 4,000–5,000-pound trailers (e.g., pop-up campers or boats) comfortably, with one user noting, “My SR5 4×2 tows a 4,500-pound camper with ease, but I added a weight-distributing hitch for stability.”
• Expert Commentary: Car and Driver praises the Tacoma’s 6,500-pound towing capacity and coil spring suspension, noting a “7.0-second 0-60 mph run” with the 278-hp engine, though towing near capacity reduces fuel efficiency. They highlight the Trailer Backup Guide as “intuitive for beginners.” Cars.com notes the turbocharged engine outperforms the previous V6, stating, “Towing feels confident and on par with the best in class,” though engine braking is limited compared to rivals.
• X Insights: Trending posts on X commend the Tacoma’s towing tech, with one user stating, “The 360-degree camera and Straight Path Assist make hitching my 5,000-pound trailer a breeze.” Another user noted, “Towing 6,000 pounds with the i-FORCE MAX feels powerful, but fuel economy tanks to 12 mpg.” Some owners report minor issues with the off-center rearview camera distorting trailer alignment, though Toyota has addressed this in newer models. Critics mention the hybrid’s lower 6,000-pound capacity as a drawback for heavy towing.
• Criticisms: Owners and reviewers note that the Tacoma’s soft suspension can sag when towing near capacity, requiring a weight-distributing hitch for loads over 5,000 pounds. The hybrid’s reduced towing capacity (6,000 pounds vs. 6,500 pounds) disappoints some users prioritizing maximum towing. Fuel economy during towing (9.5–17 mpg) is a common concern, especially in hilly terrain.

These insights suggest the Tacoma excels for midsize towing but requires careful setup for heavier loads or challenging conditions.

Best Configurations for Towing

Choosing the right 2024 Toyota Tacoma configuration depends on your towing needs:

• Light-Duty Towing (Under 4,000 lbs): The SR trim with the 2.4L turbo engine (228 hp, 243 lb-ft) and 4×2 is suitable for towing small trailers, jet skis, or pop-up campers up to 3,500 pounds. The XtraCab with a 6-foot bed maximizes payload for light loads. The Towing Package is optional but recommended for added safety features like Trailer Sway Control and a Class IV hitch.
• Moderate Towing (4,000–6,500 lbs): Opt for the SR5 or TRD PreRunner XtraCab 4×2 with the i-FORCE 2.4L turbo engine (278 hp, 317 lb-ft), 6-foot bed, and Towing Package to achieve the maximum 6,500-pound capacity. The TRD Sport or TRD Off-Road (Double Cab, 4×4) with the same engine and Towing Package offers up to 6,400 pounds, ideal for midsize campers or boats, with added traction for off-road towing. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid (TRD Pro, Trailhunter) is a strong choice for efficiency but caps at 6,000 pounds.
• Essential Towing Packages: The Towing Package, standard on most trims except SR XtraCab 4×2, is critical for maximum towing. It includes a Class IV hitch, 7-pin/4-pin wiring, and coolers for the engine, transmission, and power steering. A weight-distributing hitch is recommended for loads over 5,000 pounds, and an aftermarket sway control device enhances stability. The integrated trailer brake controller and 360-degree camera are must-haves for heavy towing.
• Safety Tips:
  • Always verify towing and payload limits using Toyota’s towing guide or the owner’s manual.
  • Use a weight-distributing hitch and sway control for loads over 5,000 pounds to prevent sag and improve stability.
  • Avoid towing during the first 500 miles to allow engine break-in, as recommended by Toyota.
  • Check tire pressure, hitch components, and trailer brakes before each trip.
  • Maintain moderate speeds (under 60 mph) and avoid sudden maneuvers when towing.
  • Deactivate features like Adaptive Cruise Control when towing to prevent interference.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is a versatile midsize pickup that delivers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, making it an excellent choice for recreational towing and light-duty work. Its turbocharged i-FORCE engine, advanced towing technologies like Trailer Backup Guide and Blind Spot Monitor with trailer coverage, and durable TNGA-F platform ensure confident performance for towing midsize trailers, boats, or ATVs. While it doesn’t match the towing capacities of full-size trucks like the Toyota Tundra (up to 12,000 pounds), the Tacoma’s maneuverability, fuel efficiency (up to 26 mpg highway), and off-road capability make it ideal for adventurers and small business owners. The SR5 or TRD PreRunner with the Towing Package is the best choice for maximum towing, while the hybrid i-FORCE MAX offers efficiency for lighter loads. For families or individuals seeking a reliable truck for occasional towing and everyday versatility, the Tacoma shines. Visit Antich Auto Eureka to test drive the 2024 Toyota Tacoma and experience its towing prowess for your next adventure.

2024 Toyota Tacoma TOWING Review at Max 6,400 Lbs Rating

FAQ

How much can my 2024 Toyota Tacoma tow?2024 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity & Payload

Anticipate a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds with the robust gas-powered i-FORCE engine, setting a new standard for towing prowess. Additionally, the TRD Off-Road variant boasts an impressive maximum payload of up to 1,709 pounds.

Can a Tacoma really tow 6500 lbs?When you want to haul cargo to the work site or bring your favorite watercraft to the beach, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma towing capacity rises to the task. This pickup provides a maximum towing of 6,500 pounds¹ and a maximum payload capacity of 1,710 pounds² with the hybrid i-Force MAX model.

Can a Toyota Tacoma pull a 7000 lb trailer?Can a Toyota Tacoma pull a 7,000-pound trailer? No, the Toyota Tacoma should not pull a 7,000-pound trailer. Its max towing capacity is 6,500 pounds.

What is the towing technology package on the 2024 Tacoma?Does the 2024 Tacoma come equipped with towing-specific technology? Yes, it features advanced towing tech like an integrated trailer brake controller and Tow/Haul mode. It also has Trailer Back Up Guidance and Straight Path Assist for easier towing.

Reference
https://www.darcarstoyotaofbaltimore.com/toyota-tacoma-towing-capacity
https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTacoma/comments/1da0e67/towing_capacity_on_2024/