How much weight can a Toyota Yaris tow?
In general, the Toyota Yaris’ towing capability varies by market and model, with most versions not intended for towing. Where towing is supported, a common maximum is about 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) with a braked trailer; unbraked limits are much lower. In North America, official tow ratings for the Yaris hatchback are not typically published, and towing is usually not recommended without explicit guidance from Toyota for a specific configuration.
To understand what this means in practice, it helps to look at regional differences, the factors that affect towing capacity, and the steps owners should take to tow safely. The figures below reflect typical guidance from manufacturers and market variations, but the exact rating for a given car should always come from the owner’s manual or a Toyota dealer.
Regional variations in towing capacity
The allowed towing weight for a Toyota Yaris depends on the market, model year, engine type, and whether a tow hitch and trailer braking are installed. Here are the typical tendencies you might encounter:
- United States and Canada: The Yaris hatchback sold in North America generally does not publish a standard towing rating; towing is not routinely recommended and should only be considered if a specific configuration or dealer guidance supports it.
- Europe and the United Kingdom: When properly equipped, the Yaris can typically tow up to about 1,000 kg (braked trailers). Unbraked towing capacity, if specified, is substantially lower, often in the 450–600 kg range depending on the exact engine and trim.
- Other regions (e.g., Asia-Pacific): Capacity varies by model and market; some variants may be capable of braked towing up to around 1,000 kg, while entry-level or different specifications may have lower or no rated towing.
Each market may have different rules about required towing equipment, hitch types, and trailer brake systems, so always confirm with local literature and a dealer before attempting to tow.
Important factors that affect towing capacity
The towing capacity of a Yaris is not a single static figure; it depends on several interrelated factors that must align with manufacturer guidelines. The following considerations commonly influence the safe towing limit:
- Engine and transmission: Different powertrains (gasoline vs. hybrid) can have different towing allowances, and some configurations may not be rated for towing at all.
- Tow package requirements: A factory tow hitch, wiring harness, and sometimes an electronic control module are needed to enable towing and achieve the official rating.
- Braked vs. unbraked trailers: Braked trailers typically allow higher tow weights; unbraked trailers are limited by stricter rules and may not be rated.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): These ratings cap how much total weight the vehicle can carry (people, cargo) and pull (trailer + load) combined.
- Vehicle condition and maintenance: Worn brakes, suspension, tires, or misalignment can reduce safe towing capability.
Understanding these factors helps ensure you do not exceed what the vehicle can safely handle and protects the warranty and roadworthiness of your Yaris.
Practical guidance for Yaris owners
If you are considering towing with a Yaris, use these precautions to proceed safely and within official guidelines:
- Check the official towing specification for your exact vehicle (model year, engine, and whether a tow package is installed) in the owner's manual or via a Toyota dealer.
- Ensure you have the correct tow hitch and electrical wiring that meet local requirements and are compatible with your Yaris.
- Verify that your trailer is braked if the rating requires it, and check tongue weight and overall trailer mass against the GCWR.
- Plan loads carefully to stay within 80% of the stated limit as a conservative safety practice, and avoid dynamic stresses from hills, wind, or abrupt maneuvers.
Consulting your local Toyota dealer or the official manual is essential, as towing guidelines can change between model years and markets, and aftermarket installations can affect ratings.
Summary
The Toyota Yaris’ towing capacity is not universal; North American models typically do not publish a towing rating, while European and certain other-market variants commonly allow braked towing up to about 1,000 kg, with unbraked limits lower. Always rely on your specific vehicle’s manual and dealer guidance, account for road, weather, and load conditions, and ensure you have the proper equipment and trailer braking when towing with a Yaris.
Can you tow a trailer with a Toyota Yaris?
With its stylish design, agile handling, and hybrid options, the Yaris is a smart and eco-friendly choice. Adding a towbar enhances its practicality — ideal for mounting a bike rack or towing a small trailer or cargo box.
What is the towing capacity of a 2007 Toyota Yaris?
Rated to 2,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 200 lbs. tongue weight.
How much weight can a Toyota Yaris pull?
The towing capacity of the Toyota Yaris supports up to 1050kg.
What is the towing capacity of a 2012 Toyota Yaris?
The braked 2012 Toyota Yaris towing capacity is between 550 kg (0.55 tonnes) and 1050 kg (1.05 tonnes).
