2022 Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma can tow between 3,500 and 6,800 pounds when properly equipped, depending on the engine, cab configuration, and whether the factory V6 Tow Package is installed. As a midsize truck that complies with SAE J2807 towing standards, the Tacoma is a highly capable and reliable choice for pulling small travel trailers, boats, and utility trailers. However, because the tow rating and payload capacity vary wildly based on how your specific truck is optioned, it is vital to understand exactly what your configuration is rated to handle.

Quick answer

Here is a quick breakdown of the maximum limits for the 2022 Toyota Tacoma (when optimally configured):

• Max Towing Capacity: 6,800 lbs (requires 3.5L V6, RWD Access Cab, and V6 Tow Package)
• Max Payload: 1,685 lbs (requires 2.7L 4-cylinder, RWD Access Cab)
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 5,600 lbs (varies by trim)
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): Up to 11,360 lbs (with V6 Tow Package)
• Curb Weight: 3,915 lbs to 4,550 lbs
• Hitch Class & Tongue Weight: Class IV receiver (with Tow Package); max tongue weight is generally 10% of the max tow rating (up to 680 lbs).

Note: Always verify your specific truck’s limits by checking the tire and loading information sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2022 Tacoma is offered with two engine choices: a 2.7L inline-4 and a 3.5L V6. The V6 Tow Package is required to unlock the truck's true towing potential. Without it, V6 models are capped at 3,500 lbs.

Tow package contents

If you plan on towing more than 3,500 lbs, you must ensure your 2022 Tacoma is equipped with the factory V6 Tow Package. This package is standard on TRD Pro models and available on other V6 trims. It includes vital mechanical upgrades that keep the powertrain cool under stress:

• Class IV towing receiver hitch
• ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) cooler (on automatic models only)
• Engine oil cooler
• Power steering cooler
• 130-amp alternator
• 4-pin and 7-pin connector with converter
• Trailer-Sway Control (TSC)

Note on Brake Controllers: The 2022 Tacoma does not come with a factory-integrated trailer brake controller (IBC). If you are towing a trailer with electric brakes, you will need to purchase and install an aftermarket brake controller. The truck features a pre-wired harness beneath the dashboard to make this installation easier.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Because the 2022 Toyota Tacoma is a midsize light-duty pickup, it is not designed or rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These setups are strictly reserved for heavy-duty (HD) trucks (like the Ford F-250 or Ram 2500) that possess the necessary frame strength, payload capacities, and axle weight ratings. Do not attempt to install a 5th-wheel or gooseneck hitch on a Tacoma.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

Toyota highly recommends the use of a Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) when towing trailers heavier than 5,000 lbs with the Tacoma. A WDH helps transfer some of the heavy tongue weight from the rear axle back to the front axle of the truck, as well as to the trailer's axles. This prevents the rear suspension from sagging dangerously, restores steering control, and keeps your headlights aimed at the road rather than the sky. Additionally, Trailer Sway Control (included in the V6 Tow Package) works in tandem with a WDH to keep your rig stable in high winds or when passing semi-trucks.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Watch the Payload: The Tacoma’s payload capacity can be quite low, especially on loaded 4WD Double Cab models (sometimes dipping into the 1,100-lb range). Remember that tongue weight eats directly into your payload. A 6,000-lb trailer with 600 lbs of tongue weight leaves only 500 lbs for passengers and cargo inside a truck with a 1,100-lb payload rating.
• Use ECT Power Mode: When towing with the automatic transmission, press the "ECT PWR" button. This changes the shift points, holding gears longer to keep the 3.5L V6 in its optimal powerband (which peaks at higher RPMs) and preventing the transmission from "hunting" between gears on inclines.
• Shift to S4: Toyota generally advises against towing in overdrive gears. Shift the gear selector into "S" (Sequential) and limit the top gear to 4 (S4) on flat ground or rolling hills to keep the transmission fluid temperatures down.

Common towing-related issues

• Rear Suspension Sag: The stock leaf springs on the Tacoma are notoriously soft, leading to significant rear-end sag when a trailer is hitched. Many owners upgrade to air helper springs, active suspension systems, or add-a-leaf kits to improve the ride quality and level the truck while towing.
• High-RPM Towing: The 3.5L Atkinson-cycle V6 makes its peak torque (265 lb-ft) at a relatively high 4,600 RPM. This means the engine will rev loudly on highway grades. This is normal for this powertrain, but it can catch new owners off guard compared to torquier turbocharged engines.
• Transmission Hunting: If left in "D", the 6-speed automatic will constantly shift back and forth between 5th and 6th gear trying to maintain fuel economy. This creates excess heat. Again, limiting the transmission to S4 or S5 is highly recommended.

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