Can a Toyota Yaris tow a trailer?
Yes, a Toyota Yaris can tow a light trailer, but only within its official towing rating and with the proper equipment. For most Yaris models, that means light towing only — typically a few hundred kilograms at most — and only when the vehicle is equipped with the correct hitch and factory-approved setup. Always confirm your exact rating in the owner's manual for your market and year.
The towing capability of the Yaris varies by market, model year, engine choice, and whether a tow package is installed. This article explains how to determine if your Yaris can tow, what limits apply, and how to tow safely and legally.
What affects the Yaris' towing capacity
Regional variations and model years influence the official rating. The factors below shape what you can tow and how to tow it safely.
Regional variations and model-year notes
- The official towing capacity is market- and model-year dependent; some Yaris variants have a defined limit, while others are not rated for towing at all without a factory tow package.
- Trailer type matters: a braked trailer allows a higher limit than an unbraked trailer, and using a small unbraked trailer often falls under a different category.
- Vehicle GVWR and GCWR: ensure combined weight never exceeds the rating for your car including passengers, cargo, and the trailer.
- Powertrain specifics: gasoline Yaris versus hybrid Yaris can have different towing allowances; hybrids are often more restrictive or not recommended for towing in some years.
- Tow hitch and electrical kit: you’ll typically need an OEM-approved tow hitch with wiring harness to maintain lighting and braking functions.
In practice, always consult your owner’s manual and the official Toyota specification for your trim and region before attempting to tow.
Preparing to tow safely with a Yaris
Once you’ve confirmed the rating, use these steps to prepare your Yaris for towing and to ensure safe operation on the road.
- Fit a compatible tow hitch and wiring harness approved by Toyota for your vehicle, ensuring lights and trailer brakes if required are functional.
- Verify the trailer’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) and ensure total load (vehicle + trailer + passengers) stays within GCWR.
- Use the correct ball size, hitch rating, and ensure tongue weight stays within the recommended range.
- Check tire pressures on both vehicle and trailer, and inspect brakes, suspension, and lighting on the trailer.
- Drive cautiously with longer stopping distances, gentle acceleration, and avoid high-speed driving with a trailer.
Towing can affect fuel economy, handling, and braking; if in doubt, consult a Toyota dealer or towing specialist.
Market notes and official sources
Because the Yaris is sold in many regions with different configurations, the exact towing rating is listed in the owner's manual and the regional Toyota specs pages. If you’re considering towing, verify the rating specific to your model year, engine, and transmission, and ensure you meet all legal requirements for trailer lights, brakes, and lights in your area.
In short, confirm the exact number for your vehicle and follow Toyota’s guidelines for safe towing; when in doubt, avoid towing with a Yaris and consider a larger vehicle designed for heavier towing needs.
Summary
Key takeaways: The Toyota Yaris can tow a trailer, but only light loads and only if your model is rated for towing and equipped with the proper hitch and wiring. Always use the official rating for your market and year, respect braked/unbraked distinctions, monitor GVWR/GCWR, and tow safely with proper equipment and legal compliance. When in doubt, consult a dealership or towing specialist.
How much can a 2010 Toyota Yaris tow?
CarsGuide has published 1 expert review of the Toyota Yaris 2010. It has an average rating of 7 out of 10. Read all the reviews here. The towing capacity of the 2010 Toyota Yaris supports up to 1050kg.
Can you put a tow hitch on a Toyota Yaris?
A vehicle-specific design ensures the best possible fit with the simplest and most secure installation. This particular class 1 hitch offers a custom fit for certain years of the Toyota Yaris (to verify vehicle compatibility, see the application information or use the Vehicle Lookup tool).
What Toyotas can pull a trailer?
Adventure-Ready Haulers
- Toyota Tacoma: The redesigned midsize pickup offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 lbs.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: This off-road-focused SUV has the capability to tow up to 6,000 lbs.
- Toyota 4Runner: The 2025 Toyota 4Runner can also tow up to 6,000 lbs.
How much can a 2015 Toyota Yaris tow?
The towing capacity of the 2015 Toyota Yaris supports up to 1050kg.
