Which Toyota Tacoma is best for towing?
The best Tacoma for towing is the model equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with the Tow Package, commonly found in trims like SR5 and TRD Off‑Road. In properly equipped 2WD form, it can tow up to about 6,800 pounds, while the base 2.7-liter four-cylinder tops out around 3,500 pounds.
Understanding towing in the Tacoma
To determine which Tacoma is best for towing, it helps to separate engine options, drivetrain, and the Tow Package’s role. The Tow Package equips features that support heavier trailers, such as enhanced cooling and trailer wiring, and it is the primary factor that raises a Tacoma’s official tow rating. The actual usable tow capacity depends on year, trim, drivetrain, payload, and whether you have a trailer brake controller integrated.
Engine options and towing numbers
These figures reflect typical towing ratings across recent model years, noting that exact values vary by configuration.
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine: up to about 3,500 pounds of towing capacity.
- 3.5-liter V6 engine: up to about 6,400–6,800 pounds with the Tow Package, with 2WD commonly achieving the higher end and 4x4 sometimes slightly lower due to payload and drivetrain factors.
In practice, the 3.5-liter V6 with Tow Package delivers the strongest towing capability in the lineup, making it the go-to choice for trailer pulls that approach the Tacoma’s upper limit.
Which trims maximize towing value and practicality
Choosing the right trim isn’t only about raw power. You’ll want the Tow Package and a configuration that aligns with your towing needs, budget, and whether you also require off-road capability. While the V6 Tow Package provides the top towing numbers, some buyers prefer other traits found in different trims, always balancing payload and tongue weight.
- SR5 with Tow Package (2WD or 4WD): Often the best value for strong towing without getting weighed down by heavy off-road equipment.
- TRD Off‑Road with Tow Package: Adds off-road capability while maintaining solid towing potential; payload should be checked for your trailer’s tongue weight.
- TRD Pro with Tow Package: Top-tier off-road hardware and similar V6 Tow Package capability, but heavier weight can reduce payload and practical towing headroom; verify your trailer’s weight limits.
Bottom line: for maximum towing, prioritize a V6 with Tow Package and a 2WD configuration if you don’t need four-wheel drive. If you want off-road capability alongside towing, a TRD Off‑Road model with Tow Package offers a reasonable compromise; always confirm exact payload, tongue weight, and GCWR for your specific build.
Practical considerations: payload, braking, and safety
Towing capacity is one piece of the puzzle. Payload capacity (the weight you carry in the truck itself), tongue weight, Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), and braking requirements all influence real-world performance. The Tacoma Tow Package typically includes enhanced cooling and trailer wiring, and you should consider an appropriate hitch, weight distribution system, and, if towing heavier loads, a trailer brake controller to improve safety and control.
Guidelines to plan your load
- Check the exact towing rating for your model year and trim in the owner’s manual or the window sticker, since ratings can shift with updates.
- Ensure your trailer’s gross weight, plus cargo and passengers, stays within the GCWR and that tongue weight remains within recommended limits (often about 10–15% of trailer weight).
- Consider a compatible hitch, wiring harness, and, if needed, an onboard trailer brake controller for heavier trailers.
Following these steps helps you select the right Tacoma configuration and tow safely and confidently.
Summary
The Tacoma’s best towing performer is the 3.5-liter V6 with the Tow Package, typically in 2WD trims like SR5 or similar, with official tow ratings near 6,800 pounds. The 2.7-liter engine tops out around 3,500 pounds. If you also need off-road capability, the TRD Off‑Road trim with Tow Package is a solid compromise, but always verify payload, tongue weight, and GCWR for your exact build before towing.
