Weekend Adventures In Connecticut With The Toyota Tacoma

Those wanting a nimble yet capable truck for their vacation around New England should be comfortable with the Toyota Tacoma towing capacity. With a maximum of 6,500 pounds, a minimum of 3,500 pounds, and a hybrid rating between 5,900 and 6,000 pounds,1 your Toyota Tacoma is more than a simple family vehicle. But, is the Tacoma payload capacity, towing ability, and off-roading specs good enough for winters around Connecticut, vacations to Vermont, or lakesides around Rhode Island?

Learn more about the mighty Toyota Tacoma and the adventures you can have after driving away with yours from our McGee Toyota of Putnam showroom!

Toyota Tacoma Towing Summary

The Tacoma towing capacity is between 3,500 and 6,500 pounds,1 depending on configuration, and its payload is between 1,230 and 1,710 pounds.2 Different trims provide better off-roading and safety features (like a Trailer Blind Spot Monitor) that enhance the experience.

What is the Tacoma Towing Capacity & Payload Rating?

A new Toyota Tacoma in Northeast CT has a few distinct towing categories, dependent on powertrain and configuration. By default, the i-FORCE 2.4-liter four-cylinder powertrain is your most capable towing companion, with the following tow ratings:

  • All SR Models: 3,500 pounds1
  • Double Cab (4x2 or 4x4): 6,400 pounds1
  • XtraCab (4x2 or 4x4): 6,500 pounds1

The hybrid Tacoma, the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter four-cylinder, is still capable, but will lose a few pounds of towing capacity overall:

  • Double Cab (Hybrid 4x4): 5,950 to 6,000 pounds1

Notably, 6,000 pounds1 is still well over the weight you'd need to tow most fiberglass fishing boats to the water near Candlewood Lake.

Payload is another story. Depending on the trim level and add-ons, your Tacoma payload capacity may change:

  • XtraCab (4x4): 1,230 pounds2
  • XtraCab (4x2): 1,405 - 1,460 pounds2
  • Double Cab (4x2): 1,445 - 1,690 pounds2
  • Double Cab (4x4): 1,380 - 1,705 pounds2
  • Double Cab (4x4 Hybrid): 1,420 - 1,710 pounds2
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What is the Best Tacoma Trim for Towing?

While trims might not have a direct impact on tow rating, they do have an impact on your experience hitching up and taking on the interstate. The Tacoma comes with a few towing features that make it perfect for a family vehicle.

Take the Towing Package, for example. It includes an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller with a Multi-Information Display and trailer brake type that work together to provide a smooth towing experience. The package also comes with gain and manual trailer brake output controls, giving you more control over the extra weight. This package is available on nearly every trim level (except the SR) and is standard on the Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter.

Similarly, you can find a Trailer Backup Guide, Trailer Blind Spot Monitor, and Trailer Camera as an add-on to the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road, and standard on the Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter. This camera system maximizes your awareness of nearby terrain – perfect for newer towers or for drivers wanting to carefully navigate the off-roads around Sandy Neck Beach in Massachusetts or Baker and Cruff Roads in Connecticut.

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What Does the Tacoma Off-Road Performance Look Like?

Speaking of tackling the trails, taking your Tacoma off-roading can be both enjoyable and safe. That's thanks to the expansive TRD lineup. With a running clearance of up to 11 inches and an approach angle of 35.7 degrees, a TRD Pro is capable of handling some of the most intensive highs and lows off the beaten path. For boaters, that means getting to the riverbed is as easy as can be.

But, for those who want even more peace of mind as you move through designated campgrounds around White Mountain National Forest in Maine, an impressive suite of features awaits in your New England truck: For example, 2.5-inch FOX® Internal Bypass shocks with adjustable compression and standard stabilizer with disconnection in the TRD Pro dodges obstacles with ease. Starting on the TRD Off-Road, a 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor gives you a fantastic angle to hunt down and dodge obstacles.

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How Will Your Toyota Tacoma Elevate Your Vacations In New England?

  • Weekends at a Lake: Thanks to your Toyota Tacoma towing capacity, you'll be comfortably hauling your fiberglass fishing boat to Mansfield Hollow Lake with no issues. Depending on the weight of your trailer, the Tacoma will have plenty of room for camping equipment in the spacious bed (up to 73.5 inches long and 20.2 inches deep with a 6-ft bed). If you have a larger boat, consider a Toyota Tundra.
  • Hauling a Camper to a Site: If you want a weekend trip in an A-Frame or Teardrop camper, our Tacoma lease deals in Connecticut could be the perfect pairing for you. Hitch to the back and bring your family to Wilderness Lake Campground in Northeast CT with ease, thanks to the array of helpful towing features offered by any Tacoma.
  • Towing a Boat to the Ocean: We recommend a model like the TRD Pro if you plan on fording dunes and potentially muddy seaside regions, such as by East River, near Owenoke, or on Pleasure Beach. You'll get to explore the Long Island Sound through any small- to medium-sized boat weighing less than 6,500 pounds1 with the trailer included, which means you'll have a sturdy vessel with a lot of amenities.
  • Your Next DIY Project: An SR5 is excellent for carefully hauling trailers during your summer home renovation. With a payload of 1,605 pounds,2 you can easily carry debris, tools, light machinery, and more. While more heavy-duty operations may require the Tundra, a Tacoma can still handle most utility trailers and dollies you'll need to make a house project move smoothly.
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Tacoma Towing Tips

  • Make a Checklist: Properly hitching requires several steps, like closing valves, setting outriggers, attaching tow chains, and securing your cargo. Create a comprehensive list to help you check off crucial steps before setting out on the road.
  • Manage Tongue Weight: The Tacoma is rated for tongue weights at around 10 percent of its overall towing capacity (650 pounds for most trims).1 Carefully balance your trailer to get to that level.
  • Stay at Moderate Speeds: For both MPG and to prevent trailer sway, keep your speeds reasonable on the road.
  • Check Mirrors/Cameras Often: Especially when braking, glancing at your trailer to make sure everything's shipshape is a good habit to get into. You'll need some extra time to stop, so make sure your trailer's in a good position to brake.
  • Tire Pressure: Manage the tire pressure on your truck and trailer before heading out.
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Explore a Tacoma With Trailer Hitch Accessories at McGee Toyota of Putnam

The Toyota Tacoma towing ability is quite competitive for a light-duty truck of its size, and it's ready to serve as your family's main ride around New England. Ready to see how it feels behind the wheel? Our team in Northeast CT has you covered. We'll introduce you to all of the trims in our showroom before you plan your vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toyota Tacoma Towing Capabilities

Can the Toyota Tacoma pull a boat?

Yes, with its towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, the Toyota Tacoma can pull lighter fishing boats. This includes the weight of the trailer, so it's better for towing bowriders, wake boats, and fiberglass vessels, as well as some smaller sailboats. Larger models, such as a pontoon, will typically require a heavier-duty pickup for the job, like the Toyota Tundra.

Can the Toyota Tacoma pull a trailer?

Yes, the Toyota Tacoma is capable of towing a trailer when properly equipped. With a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds,1 this gives you the flexibility to handle small vehicle haulers, utility trailers (open and enclosed), and even travel trailers. However, before hitching up, please weigh the trailer with all equipment inside – even if the trailer itself is fine, the extra equipment might overwhelm your pickup.

Which Toyota Tacoma trim is best for towing and hauling gear?

Any non-SR Tacoma with the XtraCab can haul up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. The SR level can only tow up to 3,500 pounds across all configurations,1 making it less suitable for vacation towing. However, even Double Cab models have 6,400-pound ratings.1 We recommend a pickup with upgrades like an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller and Trailer Blind Spot Monitor, like the Limited.

Does the Toyota Tacoma need a towing package to haul a boat or trailer?

No, by default, the Tacoma has the tools it needs to tow 3,500 pounds for the SR and up to 6,500 pounds for the other trims.1 The main difference between trim levels is the available high-quality upgrades, like the Towing Technology Package, or individual options, like the Trailer Blind Spot Monitor. These add-ons make it easier to hitch up and stay safe.

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1Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.

2Payload includes the weight of occupants, cargo and options and is limited by weight distribution.