Toyota 4Runner Towing Guide: The Ultimate Adventure Rig

Know Your Engine: 6th Gen vs. 5th Gen vs. V8

The 4Runner has evolved, and for the first time in 15 years, the towing capacity has increased. It is critical to know which generation you are driving.

• 6th Gen (2025–Present): The New Standard The all-new 4Runner features the potent i-FORCE (2.4L Turbo) and i-FORCE MAX (Hybrid) powertrains. Thanks to a stronger frame and massive torque (up to 465 lb-ft), the towing capacity has increased to 6,000 lbs. This "Sweet Spot" allows you to tow larger dual-axle trailers like the Forest River Grey Wolf 23MK or Jayco Jay Feather 24BH that were previously too heavy for the 5th Gen models.

• 5th Gen (2010–2024) & 4th Gen V6: The classic 4.0L V6 engine is rated for a 5,000 lb towing capacity. This covers the vast majority of 4Runners on the road today. For these rigs, we recommend staying in the Travel Trailers Under 4,500 lbs category to ensure you have power left for mountain passes.

• 4th Gen V8 (2003–2009): The "Unicorn" If you are lucky enough to own a 4Runner with the 4.7L V8, your towing capacity sits at 7,000 lbs (4WD) or 7,300 lbs (2WD). This allows you to tow larger Travel Trailers Under 6,000 lbs with ease, rivaling many mid-size pickup trucks.

What Can I Tow With a 2025 4Runner?

With the new 6,000 lb limit, the 6th Gen 4Runner opens up a new class of trailers.

• Dual Axle Comfort: You can now comfortably tow 23-to-25 foot trailers with slide-outs. The extra 1,000 lbs of capacity gives you the buffer needed for fully loaded family camping trips.

• Heavy Duty Overland: You no longer need to count every pound of gear. Rugged trailers like the Ibex or No Boundaries (NoBo) 19-series models are a perfect match for the high-torque hybrid engine.

• Toys & Gear: The 6,000 lb rating makes towing a Utility Trailer with two ATVs or a heavier boat significantly easier than in previous generations.

The "Overland Trap": Modifications & Payload

This remains critical for all 4Runner owners, including the new 2025 models. If your rig has a steel bumper, roof rack, rooftop tent, sliders, and 33-inch tires, you have already used up a huge chunk of your Payload Capacity.

• The Math: If your 4Runner has a payload rating of roughly 1,200–1,500 lbs (or less for some Hybrids), and you add 400 lbs of steel armor, you limit what you can tow safely.

• The Solution: Stick to lighter trailers with lighter tongue weights (300-400 lbs), such as Teardrop Trailers or Prolite models, if your rig is heavily modified.

Essential Upgrades for 4Runner Towing

• Brake Controller: While the 2025 models include an integrated trailer brake controller, most 5th Gen models do not. You must install one to legally tow most travel trailers. Our Service Department recommends the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite for older models.

• Weight Distribution Hitch: The 4Runner is famous for its off-road articulation, which means "soft" rear suspension. A quality Weight Distribution Hitch is essential to keep your rig level and prevent rear-end sag.

Start Your Expedition

Don't let the pavement limit your camping.

• Find Your Match: Browse our inventory of Off-Road Capable Trailers specifically selected for 4Runner owners.

• Check Your Payload: Visit our Towing Guide Resource Center to learn how mods affect your towing numbers.

• Service Your Rig: Need a brake controller or hitch install? Book an appointment with our Service Team before your next trip.