The Japanese full-size truck has a reputation of the most durable, reliable and dependable model in the class. Still, those aren’t the only strong points of this amazing machine. Despite the age, it still offers quite decent towing numbers, though we have to say that most rivals are more capable. So far, we’ve been hearing reports about the next-generation model and it’s arrival already by the end of the year. However, it looks like things have changed and that the company has decided to delay this overhaul for another year. This means the next year won’t bring any particular novelties, which also means things will remain the same in terms of 2021 Toyota Tundra towing capacity. You may count on the same numbers, but keep in mind that the exact rating depends on various factors, such as cab design, bed length, drive system etc.
What are the main factors that will determine the 2021 Toyota Tundra towing capacity?
The exact towing capacity is one of the most overlooked things in truck reviews. In most of these articles, the only thing you can read is a max towing capacity of a certain truck. However, that number refers only to the most capable version and the fact is that the exact max towing rating varies from version to version in a pretty wide range. Therefore, it’s important to know which are some of the most important aspects of the truck in terms of towing capacity.
One of the first things you should consider is the drive system because things are the same in 2WD and 4WD models. While 4WD models are superior in terms of off-road capabilities, 2WD trucks can tow more in most cases. In the case of Tundra, 2WDare usually better for about 300 pounds. Also, things like bed size cab design can impact max towing capacity as well. Still, the impact, in this case, isn’t as big as it is in the case of the drive system. Finally, keep in mind that certain trim levels or versions are heavier, or come with some specific design solutions, which can also have an impact on the max towing capacity.
2021 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Trim Level
A general rule among pickup trucks is that cheaper models are usually more capable. So, if that difference of a couple of hundreds of pounds means much to, stick to more basic trim levels, such as SR and SR5. The most capable are Double Cab models with standard beds, which can tow up to 10.200 pounds. If you pick SR or SR5 trim level with the extended bed or in the CrewMax version, it drops to 10.100 pounds. Versions with a 4×4 drive system can tow up to 9.900 pounds.
The Limited trim comes with several additional features, especially if you pick a CrewMax model which makes this truck heavier, which also means lower towing capacity. Therefore, a version with the standard bed, Double Cab and the 2WD system can tow 10.100 pounds, while the CrewMax tows only 9.400 pounds. Numbers also drop if you pick 4×4 models.
When it comes to Platinum and 1794 Edition models, a CrewMax version is the only one available, so a max towing capacity in the best case goes up to 9.400 pounds, while the 4×4 model drops to 8.800 pounds.
Things are a little bit more specific with the TRD Pro model, which comes with some additional off-road goodies. All in all, this model can tow up to 9.200 pounds.
What to expect from the next-generation Tundra?
If you look at 2021 Toyota Tundra towing capacity, these ratings seem okay for most truck drivers. However, the current generation has been around for 13 years, so it’s no wonder that younger rivals are much more capable in this aspect. Therefore, we have big expectations for the new Tundra.
According to the latest reports, the new Tundra is expected to feature significantly higher towing ratings, and that’s for several reasons. Of course, one of the things that come to mind is a new chassis design. Still, most reports put new powertrain in the focus. The new generation is expected to come with a hybrid powertrain in the offer. The new truck should feature a system that features between 450 and 500 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. With such numbers, we expect notably higher max towing capacity. Some reports suggest 13.000 pounds, which seems like a significant improvement compared to the current model, and also as a number that’s on par with all full-size pickups on the market. More details about the new Tundra and its towing capacity should be known once we get exact power ratings of the new powertrain.