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When you want your next family vacation in Irving, TX, to be truly memorable, let the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity help you bring along what you need and more. At 6,000 pounds across most trims,1 the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity is more than capable of handling nearly any road-trip-oriented cargo, including campers and boats. But, are there any requirements to reach the impressive Toyota 4Runner trailer weight, and how does it compare to previous years? At Toyota of Irving, you’ll have the opportunity to drive this capable two- to three-row SUV and feel the differences between trims yourself!
The maximum 2026 Toyota 4Runner tow rating is 6,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is the standard capacity of the new Toyota 4Runner for sale, meaning you get to haul an impressive 6,000 pounds even if you choose the base SR5 trim.1
That limit is fairly consistent across trims, with the 4Runner TRD towing capacity matching the SR5, Limited, and even most Off-Road levels. Some grades, like the Trailhunter and TRD Pro, utilize the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo hybrid engine and can tow 5,800 pounds.1
Depending on your trim, the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity ranges from 5,800 to 6,000 pounds.1
| SR5 | TRD Sport | TRD Sport Premium | TRD Off‑Road | TRD Off‑Road i‑FORCE MAX | TRD Off‑Road Premium | TRD Off‑Road Premium i‑FORCE MAX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | i‑FORCE 2.4L 4‑cyl | i‑FORCE 2.4L 4‑cyl | i‑FORCE 2.4L 4‑cyl | i‑FORCE 2.4L 4‑cyl | 2.4L 4‑cyl turbo hybrid | i‑FORCE 2.4L 4‑cyl | 2.4L 4‑cyl turbo hybrid |
| Towing Capacity (RWD) | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Towing Capacity (4WD) | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 | 6,000 lbs1 |
| Lowest Curb Weight | 4,455 lbs | 4,610 lbs | 4,610 lbs | 4,850 lbs | 5,225 lbs | 4,850 lbs | 5,225 lbs |
| Estimated Payload | 1,550 lbs2 | 1,410 lbs2 | 1,410 lbs2 | 1,390 lbs2 | 1,280 lbs2 | 1,390 lbs2 | 1,280 lbs2 |
While this towing capacity is extraordinary, is it the highest in the history of the two- to three-row SUV? It actually isn’t.
Model years of the Toyota 4Runner with a V-6 engine reached a maximum of 5,000 pounds, with several of the earliest iterations being just 3,500 pounds.1 While this is still plenty for towing canoes or small vehicles, it doesn’t match the trailering ability of the current, sixth-generation 4Runner. The original 2.4-liter I-4 performed similarly, with a range of 2,500 to 3,500 pounds depending on model year and drivetrain.1
However, the fourth generation of 4Runner SUVs came with one more engine: the 4.7-liter V-8. With the proper configuration and tow equipment, the 2004-2009 4Runner can usually tow up to 7,300 pounds.1
The sixth generation’s four-cylinder engine can help deliver one of the highest towing capacities in the history of the 4Runner. However, the fourth-generation V-8 could reach a top capacity of 7,300 pounds when properly equipped.
The question is, what does the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity let you do? With a 6,000-pound limit,1 you can hitch up to small campers, various small vehicle carriers (like for canoes or ATVs), or even small utility trailers.
However, when you prepare to drive with these larger trailers (that get close to 4,000 or 5,000 pounds by themselves), it’s vital to double-check the weight after you add equipment to the interior. For example, a small camper might weigh 5,000 pounds, but you might add a mini-fridge, a cooler, clothing, and more inside. Once you’re done, check that the model is within your SUV’s towing capacity, and that the tongue weight is less than the tow rating of your specific 4Runner.
The 4Runner payload is standard for an SUV, with a total of between 1,005 and 1,550 pounds, depending on your drivetrain and configuration.2 That includes your passenger’s weight and tongue weight, so be careful if you store too much.
The Toyota 4Runner towing ability is perfect for lighter campers and small vehicles, with extra room for some small utility trailers. However, paying attention to your payload is also critical as it directly impacts the weight you can put on the hitch.
If you want to upgrade to this head-turning, highly capable SUV in Irving, TX, please visit us! We’ll show you how you’ll benefit when you lease a Toyota 4Runner, or guide you through what a financing plan might look like if that suits your lifestyle better.
Need more power? Consider reading about the Toyota Tundra towing capacity. Our truck lineup is perfect for larger boats, bigger DIY projects, and more.
The standard towing capacity of the Toyota 4Runner is 6,000 pounds.1 That means it is more than capable of handling most towing needs, like campers, small vehicle trailers, and even some fishing boats. However, some 4Runner trims have slightly lower towing capacity, such as the 5,800-pound limit of the Trailhunter.1 For more information, please talk with our team.
Yes, the Toyota 4Runner towing package is a standard feature, allowing the SUV to handle trailers up to its listed tow rating (which is 6,000 pounds1 as standard). This package, an integrated towing receive hitch and wiring harness with four- and seven-pin connectors, is the default for any 4Runner. Additional features, like a Trailer Brake Controller and Trailer Backup Guide, can improve the hitching process.
With its standard maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, the Toyota 4Runner can comfortably handle a small camper or trailer weighing up to 5,000 pounds.1 Before towing anything above 5,000 pounds, it is critical to weigh the trailer after you load any coolers, equipment, or accessories on board. Also, make sure the tongue weight does not exceed 600 pounds to reduce pressure on your SUV.
08/21/2025
Had a great experience buying my 4Runner at Toyota of Irving. James was great! He was helpful, courteous, knowledgeable and respectful. He gave me the time I needed to make the best decision for me and really went to bat for me. If I had to do it all over again I’d ask for James again.
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.
2Max payload varies based on accessories and vehicle configuration.
