Toyota Tacoma Technical Specifications: Towing, Payload, and Off-Road Performance
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck engineered for durability and versatile performance. Known for its high residual value and off-road heritage, the Tacoma is a primary choice for both commercial tasks and recreational use.
Engine Options and Powertrain Performance
The Tacoma offers two distinct engine configurations to balance fuel efficiency and power. The base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine provides a reliable platform for daily driving. For increased demand, the 3.5-liter V6 utilizes D-4S direct injection to deliver 278 horsepower. This powertrain is essential for achieving the maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds.
| Technical specs: Toyota Tacoma | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 6,800 lbs (with V6 Tow Package) |
| Max Payload | 1,440 lbs |
| Engine (V6) | 3.5L V6 (278 hp / 265 lb-ft) |
| Safety Suite | Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) |
Towing and Hauling Logistics
When properly equipped with the V6 Tow Package, the Tacoma includes a Class-IV towing receiver hitch, ATF cooler (on automatic models), and trailer-sway control. The maximum payload capacity of 1,440 pounds allows for significant equipment transport in the composite inner bed, which features a deck rail system with adjustable tie-down cleats.
Off-Road Engineering and TRD Configurations
Specific trims like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro include hardware designed for technical terrain. Key features include:
- Multi-Terrain Select: Adjusts wheel spin by regulating engine throttle and traction control.
- Crawl Control (CRAWL): Automatically modulates throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings.
- Electronically Locking Rear Differential: Distributes power evenly to both rear wheels for maximum traction in low-grip conditions.
Modern Safety and Driver Assistance
All modern Tacoma models include Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) as standard equipment. This suite integrates millimetric-wave radar and a camera system to provide:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection.
- Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning System.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) for highway safety.