Towing Capacity of Popular Toyota Trucks & SUVs

When it comes to hauling heavy loads and tackling rugged terrain, Toyota trucks and SUVs have earned a reputation for being some of the best options on the market. With their high-level engineering and advanced features, these vehicles provide drivers with the power and reliability needed to tow trailers, boats, and other heavy cargo. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or a professional in need of a workhorse, these Toyota vehicles are sure to deliver the performance you’re looking for. For this article, we’ll focus on vehicles from the 2023 model year.

Toyota Tundra

The Tundra is well-regarded for its powerful drivetrain and robust towing capacity. The 2023 Tundra’s tow rating will vary depending on factors such as the gearbox, cabin size, bed size, and trim level. Even without the available hybrid motor and heavier body that the bed length and cabin style provide, the Tundra can haul an impressive 8,300 lbs. If you want to max out your Tundra’s towing ability, go for the SR5 trim in rear-wheel drive with the double cab and 6.5-foot short bed. Regardless of the trim and packages you opt for, the Tundra is one of the best trucks available when it comes to towing.

Toyota Tacoma

People tend to associate the Tacoma with off-road capabilities than raw power, but that doesn’t mean it can’t haul significant loads. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with the available tow package can boost the Tacoma’s tow rating to 6,800 lbs. Even if you’re not towing, it can handle a payload of 1,685 lbs, allowing you to bring everything you need on your next camping trip or weekend getaway. The Tacoma is a great option for many drivers, from those who need a versatile truck for outdoor adventures to those looking for a work truck to bring to their next job site.

Toyota 4Runner

With a 4.0-liter V-6 engine, an integrated towing hitch receiver, and a wiring harness with both four- and seven-pin connectors, the 4Runner is a world-class SUV when it comes to towing. Every 4Runner trim in the 2023 model year has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. Paired with a maximum interior cargo volume of nearly 90 cubic feet, the 4Runner provides the hauling capabilities of a truck and the versatility of an SUV. When selecting your 4Runner, keep in mind that factors such as curb weight, gross vehicle weight rating, and seating capacity vary between the trims.

Toyota Sequoia

The Sequoia is the ideal SUV for families adventuring around California. With an interior packed with advanced features and generous interior dimensions, it’s easy for the whole family to get comfortable in a Sequoia. It also delivers the high-level towing capability you’re looking for to bring your favorite weekend toys on your next trip, maxing out at 9,520 lbs when properly equipped. Drivers who want the highest-rated towing capacity should look to get behind the week of an SR5 in either the two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive variant. Even the lowest-rated trim, the Capstone, can still handle loads upwards of 9,000 lbs.

Safe Towing Practices

Before you capitalize on the impressive towing capabilities of your shiny new Toyota truck or SUV, it’s important to understand the basic rules of towing. The following tips will help you stay safe and reduce the risk of an accident when you’re hauling cargo.

Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity

Attempting to tow something heavier than your vehicle can handle is a recipe for disaster. Avoid exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity under any circumstances, as it can be extremely dangerous to both you and your vehicle.

Use the Correct Hitch

From ball to pintle to fifth wheel, there are several types of hitches in use today. Take time to research the right hitch for your vehicle and the weight of the load you’re going to tow. A hitch that isn’t functioning properly can cause the load to sway or, in some cases, even detach from the vehicle.

Regularly Inspect Your Towing Equipment

You should conduct thorough inspections of your towing equipment every time you want to tow something. First, ensure that the hitch ball is the correct size for the coupler and that it’s properly tightened. Next, check the safety chains aren’t too loose or too tight and that they’re attached to both the vehicle and the load. Finally, inspect the brake controller to make sure it’s working properly. These routine checks may seem like a waste of time when you’re performing them, but they could make all the difference when it comes to preventing deadly accidents.

Drive Safely

It may seem like common sense, but driving safely is paramount while towing. It’s always a good idea to further exaggerate normal safe driving habits, such as reducing speed, leaving more space between you and the vehicle in front of you, and avoiding sudden stops or turns. Always keep in mind that towing heavier objects can reduce your vehicle’s performance when it comes to handling and braking.

Use a Spotter

Even the most experienced haulers can use some help every once in a while. Having a spotter when backing up or navigating through potentially hazardous areas can make life easier when you’re towing a large or difficult load.

Practice Makes Perfect

At the end of the day, your vehicle’s towing capacity is useless without a skilled driver. For both beginners looking to learn and veterans hoping to stay sharp, finding a safe area to practice maneuverability can be beneficial ahead of your next towing adventure.

Find an Adventure-Ready Truck or SUV at Longo Toyota

Now that you have some basic knowledge of the towing capabilities of Toyota’s most popular trucks and SUVs and best practices for safe towing, you’re ready to take the next step. Stop by our El Monte, California dealership, and our team will be happy to help you find the perfect new Toyota for your lifestyle. Before you stop in, check out our new inventory to see what vehicles we currently have on our lot, or contact us to schedule a test drive.

Image by Bradley Dunn is licensed with Unsplash License

Tags: Towing Capacity, Toyota Trucks & SUVs
Posted in New Inventory | No Comments »