Aug 20, 2021

While the legendary Toyota Tacoma has long been known for its skills off the beaten path, its powerful engine provides plenty of pull when you’re towing gear, too. This versatile truck has been built even stronger for the 2021 model year, making it one of Tacoma’s strongest iterations to date. How much can the 2021 Toyota Tacoma tow? Let’s take a look!

Standard and Maximum Towing Capacity for all Tacoma Trims

The new Toyota Tacoma comes in one of six trim options, most of which have a standard towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, enough for a small trailer, two ATVs, or a light boat. The maximum weight any Tacoma can haul is 6,800 pounds, achieved by the SR5 and TRD Sport trims. That’s enough for a midsize trailer, large boat, or even another car! Here’s a rundown of all six trims and their standard and maximum towing weights:

  • SR: 3500 lbs / 6800 lbs
  • SR5: 3500 lbs / 6800 lbs
  • TRD Sport: 3500 lbs / 6800 lbs
  • TRD Off-Road: 3500 lbs / 6500 lbs
  • Limited: 3500 lbs / 6600 lbs
  • TRD Pro: 3500 lbs / 6400 lbs

How to Top Out the Towing Tonnage in Your Toyota Tacoma

One thing we love about Toyota trucks is how customizable they are. With multiple options on engine size, cab length, bed length, and more, it’s easy to make a 2021 Tacoma your own. That’s just one of the reasons Tacoma was named Best Buy of the Year among midsize pickups by Kelley Blue Book.

If you want to maximize your Tacoma’s towing capacity, you’ll need to focus on specific options in specific trims to get there.

First, you need to pick the best engine for the job: Toyota’s available 3.5L V6 Direct Injection Atkinson Cycle engine, with up to 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. V6 models come standard with a tow package, which includes a Class IV Receiver Hitch, transmission cooler, engine oil cooler, heavy-duty battery, and everything else you need for a heavy haul.

Next up, you’ll need to ensure your Tacoma is configured with an Access Cab and six-foot bed. That provides you with the savings in passenger and cab weight you need to tow the heaviest trailers. If you tend to haul more passengers than cargo, a Crew Cab is a fine choice as well.

2021 Toyota Tacoma: a Top Towing Truck for Waldorf Drivers

If you’re an adventurer who likes bringing a few toys along, the Toyota Tacoma is a great choice for you. You can bring all your gear to the trailhead, then take it off-road, too!

When you need a new or used Toyota truck in Waldorf, La Plata, or St. Charles, the experts at Waldorf Toyota are here to help you find what you need. We’ve got a wide selection of Toyota SUVs, cars, and trucks, great financing deals, and comprehensive service plans with ToyotaCare and genuine Toyota parts, so you won’t have to worry about keeping your Tacoma in good towing shape. Come to our dealership, conveniently located off Crain Highway, today!