Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity (All Years 2000-2025)

The Tundra was introduced into Toyota’s lineup as a full-size pickup truck in 2000 and remains one of the best-selling pickup trucks in America today. Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability and for having the features consumers expect from today’s vehicles, including towing. But what is the towing capacity of a Toyota Tundra?

The Toyota Tundra has a towing capacity of 7,200 to 12,000 pounds depending on the year and configuration.

There’s a bit more to know about Toyota Tundra towing capabilities which we’ll cover in today’s guide.

Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Year

As we covered earlier, the current Toyota Tundra can tow a maximum of 12,000 lbs when properly equipped.

The Tundra has been in production from 2000 through the present, and we’ve listed out the maximum tow capacity by year below for reference.

Note that for each model year, there are many variables that affect the total towing capability of each vehicle year, so we recommend checking your specific Tundra model year below for an in-depth guide and to get the most accurate information.

Here are the Toyota Tundra max tow capacity by year:

2025 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 12,000 pounds

2024 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 12,000 pounds

2023 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 12,000 pounds

2022 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 12,000 pounds

2021 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,200 pounds

2020 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,200 pounds

2019 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,200 pounds

2018 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,200 pounds

2017 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,500 pounds

2016 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,500 pounds

2015 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,500 pounds

2014 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,500 pounds

2013 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,400 pounds

2012 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,400 pounds

2011 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,400 pounds

2010 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,500 pounds

2009 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,800 pounds

2008 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,800 pounds

2007 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 10,800 pounds

2006 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,100 pounds

2005 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,100 pounds

2004 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,200 pounds

2003 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,200 pounds

2002 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,200 pounds

2001 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,200 pounds

2000 Toyota Tundra Tow Capacity: 7,200 pounds

Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity by Year Chart

You can also read our guide on what makes a vehicle towing capacity to learn all the aspects that go into it.

Here’s a video showing the Toyota Tundra being put to a real-world off-road and towing test:

Toyota Tundra Braked Vs. Unbraked Towing Capacity

All vehicles have different towing capacities based on whether or not you’re towing a trailer that has trailer brakes installed.

Trailer brakes allow the trailer to stop faster than if only the vehicle is using its brakes, allowing the vehicle to tow more weight, so braked towing capacity will always be higher than unbraked towing capacity.

Toyota Tundra Braked Towing Capacity: 7,200 lbs. – 12,000 lbs.

Toyota Tundra Unbraked Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs.

Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity Factors

There are a few factors that affect the Toyota Tundra tow capacity.

Engine Options

The tow capacity of your Toyota Tacoma largely depends on which engine it has in it.

First Generation (2000–2006):

• Engine Options:
  • 3.4L V6 (190 hp, 220 lb-ft of torque)
  • 4.7L i-Force V8 (245 hp, 315 lb-ft of torque)
• Towing Capacity Impact:
  • The smaller 3.4L V6 engine offered limited towing power, typically around 7,100 to 7,200 pounds.
  • The 4.7L V8 engine was better suited for towing, but even with the V8, the max towing capacity for this generation stayed in the range of 7,200 pounds due to overall limitations in the vehicle’s architecture and engine power.

Second Generation (2007–2021):

• Engine Options:
  • 4.0L V6 (236 hp, 266 lb-ft of torque)
  • 4.7L V8 (271 hp, 313 lb-ft of torque) (2007-2009)
  • 5.7L i-Force V8 (381 hp, 401 lb-ft of torque)
  • 4.6L V8 (310 hp, 327 lb-ft of torque) (2010 onward)
• Towing Capacity Impact:
  • With the introduction of the second generation in 2007, the towing capacity jumped significantly to 10,800 pounds. This was largely thanks to the 5.7L i-Force V8, which provided significantly more power and torque than the previous generation.
  • The V6 and the smaller 4.6L V8 engines offered less towing capability, ranging from about 7,100 to 8,000 pounds, but the 5.7L engine remained the dominant option for maximum towing.
  • Between 2007 and 2021, the 5.7L V8 consistently allowed for towing capacities in the 10,200–10,800-pound range.

Third Generation (2022–Present):

• Engine Options:
  • 3.5L i-Force Twin-Turbo V6 (389 hp, 479 lb-ft of torque)
  • 3.5L i-Force MAX Hybrid V6 (437 hp, 583 lb-ft of torque)
• Towing Capacity Impact:
  • In 2022, Toyota moved away from V8 engines entirely and introduced two new 3.5L V6 engine options: a twin-turbocharged version and a hybrid twin-turbo variant. Despite downsizing from a V8 to a V6, both engines produce significantly more torque, which is a key factor in towing capacity.
  • These engines allowed the Tundra to reach a new maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds, a major improvement over previous generations. The hybrid variant, with its additional electric torque, further enhances the Tundra’s towing potential, especially for heavy loads and when towing uphill.

Transmission Options

The Toyota Tundra has evolved in its transmission offerings across different generations, with each upgrade impacting towing performance and overall drivability. Here’s an overview of the transmission options in the Toyota Tundra across its generations and how they have affected towing capacity:

First Generation (2000–2006):

• Transmission Options:
  • 4-speed Automatic (V6 and V8): This transmission was the standard offering in the first generation, paired with both the 3.4L V6 and 4.7L V8 engines.
  • 5-speed Manual (V6): Available with the 3.4L V6 engine but was not a popular option for towing due to its limited torque handling.
• Impact on Towing Capacity:
  • The 4-speed automatic transmission was outdated by the mid-2000s. Its fewer gears limited the engine’s ability to efficiently deliver power across a wider range of speeds, which negatively impacted towing capabilities.
  • The limited number of gears made towing heavier loads more challenging, especially uphill or on uneven terrain, contributing to the maximum towing capacity of just 7,200 pounds for this generation.

Second Generation (2007–2021):

• Transmission Options:
  • 5-speed Automatic (2007–2009): This was initially paired with the 4.0L V6 and 4.7L V8 engines.
  • 6-speed Automatic (2007–2021): Paired with the 5.7L V8 engine and later with the 4.6L V8 (2010 and later), this transmission became the standard for most trims.
• Impact on Towing Capacity:
  • The introduction of the 6-speed automatic transmission in 2007 was a significant improvement for the Tundra. More gears allowed for better power distribution and torque handling, leading to a big jump in towing capacity, reaching 10,800 pounds.
  • The 5-speed automatic transmission paired with the smaller engines (V6 and 4.7L V8) offered less power and torque control, limiting towing capabilities to around 7,100 to 8,000 pounds.
  • The 6-speed automatic also enhanced the towing experience by providing smoother shifting, better fuel efficiency under load, and more control when climbing or descending hills while towing heavy loads.

Third Generation (2022–Present):

• Transmission Options:
  • 10-speed Automatic: This transmission is paired with both the 3.5L i-Force Twin-Turbo V6 and the 3.5L i-Force MAX Hybrid V6 engines. It’s a significant upgrade from the previous generation’s 6-speed automatic.
• Impact on Towing Capacity:
  • The 10-speed automatic transmission is one of the key reasons why the towing capacity in the third generation Tundra increased to 12,000 pounds. The additional gears provide smoother power delivery and more precise torque management.
  • The 10-speed transmission allows the engine to operate more efficiently at various RPM ranges, providing more power when needed for towing but optimizing fuel efficiency when cruising or under lighter loads.
  • It also helps with engine braking during downhill towing, enhancing control when towing heavy trailers or navigating steep declines.
  • The pairing of the 10-speed transmission with the hybrid V6 engine in the i-Force MAX system ensures that the Tundra can handle heavy towing with additional torque, without sacrificing fuel economy.

Bed Length

In some trim levels, the Tacoma bed length affected it’s towing capacity, with the general trend being that shorter bed lengths increased the Tacoma’s towing cap by around 500 pounds.

2WD vs 4WD

In some cases, the Tacoma can tow more depending on whether it is 2WD or 4WD.

Model Year and Generation

As the Tundra got into the later model years like 2007 and beyond, the towing capacities increased to 10,000 pounds and over, while prior year models had closer to a 7,000 pound max towing capability.

Number of Passengers

A big factor in calculating your vehicle’s towing capacity is how many passengers you’re carrying, which directly calculates into the vehicle’s GCWR.

This is true of all vehicles, not just the Toyota Tundra, so always take into consideration the total load of your passengers and gear in addition to what you’re towing.

Toyota Tundra Tow Packages

Does The Toyota Tundra Have A Tow Package?

Toyota offers a first-class tow package that is available on most trim levels of the Tundra.

The current Toyota Tundra towing package includes the following:

• Class IV tow hitch receiver (TripleTech frame with trailer hitch integrated into the frame)
• 4 and 7-pin connector with converter
• Integrated Trailer-Sway Control
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
• Tundra Tow Mirrors (sold separately)
• Ball Mount (sold separately)

Tundra Towing Options and Technology

Over the years, Toyota has made several significant advancements in towing technology and features for the Tundra model.

These changes reflect evolving consumer needs and technological advancements that enhance the towing experience, safety, and efficiency.

First Generation (2000–2006):

• No advanced towing assist technologies were available. Towing performance was based primarily on raw engine power.

Second Generation (2007–2021):

• Tow/Haul Mode: Introduced to adjust the transmission’s shift points for better power delivery while towing. This mode reduced gear hunting and improved engine braking on descents.
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Provided better control over trailer brakes, which was crucial for safely towing heavy loads.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): Automatically applied braking and adjusted engine torque if trailer sway was detected, improving safety while towing.
• Heavy-Duty Hitch Receiver: Rated for higher towing capacities, making it easier to tow large trailers or boats.
• Backup Camera: While standard for safety, it also helped align the hitch for easier trailer hookup.

Third Generation (2022–Present):

• Towing Technology Package: Introduced in this generation, it includes:
  • 360-degree cameras: Provides a bird’s-eye view, making it easier to maneuver while towing.
  • Trailer Backup Guidance: Helps drivers reverse while towing by providing steering guidance.
  • Straight Path Assist: Automatically steers the vehicle to help keep the trailer straight while reversing.
• Adaptive Suspension and Air Suspension: Available in certain models, the rear air suspension includes manual and automatic leveling functions, ensuring a stable and level ride while towing.
• Multi-link Rear Suspension: Improves towing stability, comfort, and control, replacing the traditional leaf springs for better load distribution.
• Integrated Trailer Brake Control: With more refined controls compared to earlier generations, it works seamlessly with modern trailer braking systems.
• Smart Trailer Integration: Tundra allows drivers to monitor trailer settings through the infotainment system, improving safety and awareness.

Can You Install A Trailer Hitch On a Toyota Tundra?

If you plan on towing anything with your Toyota Tundra, you’ll need a tow hitch and wiring harness.

Depending on what you’re towing, you’re going to need a ball mount (aka a trailer ball hitch) so you can attach items for towing.

Make sure to get the right trailer ball size that matches your hitch and trailer.

Toyota Tundra Tow Hitch

Trailer hitches come in different hitch classes, which are rated for different vehicle sizes and weight limits.

The Toyota Tundra uses a Class 3 or Class 4 hitch.

Here’s a great option for a Class III Toyota Tundra trailer hitch:

Here’s a great ball mount option so you can hook up different types of trailers for towing with your Tundra:

Toyota Tundra Tow Hitch Installation

If you’re considering having a tow hitch added to your Tundra, expect to pay between $100 and $200 to have a tow package professionally installed (excluding the cost of the tow hitch and wiring harness).

If you’re handy and looking to save money, you can install the trailer hitch and wiring harness yourself.

Always follow the manufacturer’s directions and use proper safety precautions.

Here’s a great video walkthrough on a Toyota Tundra trailer hitch installation:

Hitch Receiver Vs Rear Step Bumper Towing

Some vehicles allow for bumper towing, which means you can mount a tow hitch ball directly on the bumper instead of installing a tow hitch to the vehicle’s frame.

Can I Bumper Tow With A Toyota Tundra?

The Toyota Tundra does allow for bumper towing, but be sure to not exceed the hitch’s weight rating.

In most cases, it’s just easier and safer to use a frame-mounted hitch.

How Do I Know If My Toyota Tundra Has A Tow Package?

You can start by looking under the rear bumper of your Tundra to see if you notice a trailer hitch or trailer ball.

That will give you a good indication of if you have a tow hitch already installed on your Tundra.

Another way to research this is by checking the paperwork that came with your vehicle or taking it to a local dealer to see what’s installed.

Make sure to have your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) handy if you call the dealer so they can look up the exact specs and whether or not your vehicle has any towing packages or features installed on it.

Check out our related guides to more Tundra towing questions:

Can a Toyota Tundra pull a 5th Wheel Trailer?

Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity By Year

The payload capacity of the Tundra has steadily increased over the years since the first 2000 year model.

Here’s a quick overview of the payload capacities of the Toyota Tundra by generation and how they’ve evolved:

First Generation (2000–2006):

• Payload Capacity: Ranged from 1,500 to 1,800 pounds.
• Explanation: The first-generation Tundra featured smaller V6 and V8 engines and a lighter-duty frame, limiting its payload capabilities. It was designed primarily for light-duty use, which is reflected in the modest payload range.

Second Generation (2007–2021):

• 2007–2009: Payload capacities increased to 1,730–2,065 pounds, thanks to a more robust frame and the introduction of the 5.7L i-Force V8.
• 2010–2017: Payload capacities ranged between 1,600 and 2,090 pounds, depending on the model configuration (Regular Cab, Double Cab, CrewMax). Heavier trims reduced payload due to increased curb weight.
• 2018–2021: A slight reduction in payload was observed, especially in heavier configurations like the CrewMax. Payload capacities for these years ranged from 1,440 to 1,730 pounds, with some models carrying additional features that added weight, thus reducing the payload capacity.

Third Generation (2022–Present):

• Payload Capacity: Improved to a range of 1,575 to 1,940 pounds.
• Explanation: The 2022 Tundra features a fully boxed frame and a new multi-link rear suspension system, which helped increase payload capacity by more than 11%. Additionally, lightweight materials like aluminum in key areas of the truck, along with a lighter 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine, contributed to an improved payload range. The hybrid version (i-Force MAX) also supports increased payload, although hybrid components slightly lower the max payload in some configurations.

The overall trend shows that while Toyota has improved the Tundra’s frame strength and engine performance, the increasing inclusion of luxury and off-road features has sometimes reduced payload capacity. However, with the redesign in 2022, the Tundra regained some payload capability, thanks to a combination of new materials and a more efficient powertrain.

Note that these payloads are ranges, and that there are many individual factors that can affect your Tundra’s max payload. Be certain to check your owner’s manual or our individual model year guides at the start of this article to narrow that information down to your specific rig!

Data Accuracy

We’ve gathered all data represented here from the official Toyota Tundra Owner’s Manuals on Toyota’s site and have checked all data thoroughly for accuracy.

Having said that, we still recommend you refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual yourself before towing with your Toyota Tundra.