Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity by Year: Complete Chart, Specs & Guide

The Toyota 4Runner towing capacity by year has long been one of the most talked-about aspects of this rugged SUV. Known for its legendary durability and off-road confidence, the 4Runner is not just about adventure—it’s about capability. Whether you’re hauling a boat to the lake or towing a small camper into the wilderness, understanding how much your 4Runner can tow safely is crucial.

This guide dives deep into how towing capacity has evolved through the generations—from the early compact models of the 1980s to the powerful and modern SUVs we see today. You’ll find real figures, helpful comparisons, and practical insights on what each generation of the Toyota 4Runner can handle when it comes to towing.

Towing Capacity in the Toyota 4Runner

Before breaking down the 4Runner’s towing capacity by year, it helps to understand what towing capacity actually means and what affects it.

What Is Towing Capacity?

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely pull behind it, as determined by the manufacturer. This includes the weight of the trailer plus any cargo inside it.

Toyota determines this rating by testing each model’s:

• Engine power and torque output
  
• Transmission performance
  
• Axle ratio and drivetrain configuration
  
• Braking system strength
  
• Suspension stability and frame rigidity
  

Key Terms You Should Know

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): The maximum total weight of your vehicle including passengers, cargo, and tongue load.
  
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): The total weight of the vehicle and trailer combined.
  
• Tongue Weight: The downward pressure the trailer applies to the hitch, usually around 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight.
  

When towing with a Toyota 4Runner, balancing these factors helps maintain performance and safety. Exceeding them can strain the transmission or suspension and affect braking performance.

What Affects the Toyota 4Runner’s Towing Ability?

1. Engine Size: Larger engines like the 4.7L V8 (in older models) provide higher torque for heavy loads.
   
2. Drivetrain: Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models often tow slightly more than four-wheel-drive (4WD) due to less drivetrain loss.
   
3. Cooling System: Proper transmission and engine cooling can maintain performance under heavy loads.
   
4. Vehicle Weight: A heavier SUV reduces available towing capacity.
   

“A good rule of thumb: Always stay 10–15% under the maximum towing capacity for safer handling and longer vehicle life.”

Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity by Generation

Over the decades, the Toyota 4Runner’s towing capacity has steadily improved with advancements in engineering, engine options, and frame design. From the early compact-SUV roots in the mid-1980s to the modern, off-road-focused fifth-generation models, the 4Runner has remained one of the most capable midsize SUVs on the market.

Here’s a quick overview of how towing power evolved through the generations:

Generation	Model Years	Engine Options	Towing Capacity Range
1st Generation	1984–1989	2.4L I4, 3.0L V6	2,000–3,500 lbs
2nd Generation	1990–1995	3.0L V6	3,500–5,000 lbs
3rd Generation	1996–2002	3.4L V6	5,000 lbs
4th Generation	2003–2009	4.0L V6, 4.7L V8	5,000–7,300 lbs
5th Generation	2010–Present	4.0L V6	5,000 lbs

This table shows how Toyota prioritized stronger engines, reinforced frames, and better towing stability systems as the SUV evolved.

First Generation (1984–1989) Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity

The first-generation Toyota 4Runner debuted in 1984 as a compact SUV built on the Hilux pickup platform. It combined the ruggedness of a truck with the practicality of a family SUV—a concept that helped define Toyota’s SUV identity.

Engines and Powertrain

• 2.4L 22R 4-cylinder: ~105 horsepower, 136 lb-ft torque
  
• 3.0L V6 (introduced later): ~145 horsepower, 180 lb-ft torque
  

These early engines were durable but not particularly powerful, limiting towing performance.

Towing Capacity

Depending on the engine and drivetrain, the first-generation 4Runner’s towing capacity ranged between 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. This made it suitable for small utility trailers or lightweight boats, but not for heavy campers or car haulers.

Model Year	Engine	Drive Type	Max Towing Capacity
1984–1985	2.4L I4	4WD	2,000 lbs
1986–1989	3.0L V6	2WD / 4WD	Up to 3,500 lbs

Driving and Towing Experience

Owners praised the 4Runner for its off-road performance but noted that towing felt sluggish, especially uphill or in hot weather. Its lightweight frame and simple suspension were not designed for large trailers, but it excelled at towing smaller loads for outdoor trips.

“It wasn’t the power that made the early 4Runner special—it was its reliability when others broke down.”

Second Generation (1990–1995) Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity

The second-generation Toyota 4Runner brought a more refined design and improved towing performance. It moved from a removable-top SUV to a fully enclosed body, offering better comfort and safety while maintaining rugged truck-like durability.

Engine and Performance

Most models came with a 3.0L V6 engine producing around 150 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque—an upgrade over the earlier inline-4. Paired with an optional automatic transmission and available 4WD, it provided smoother towing experiences.

Towing Capacity

The second-generation 4Runner could tow between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds, depending on configuration. Models equipped with the towing package—adding features like a heavy-duty alternator and transmission cooler—achieved the higher limit.

Model Year	Engine	Drive Type	Max Towing Capacity
1990–1992	3.0L V6	2WD	3,500 lbs
1993–1995	3.0L V6 (with tow package)	4WD	Up to 5,000 lbs

Real-World Use

With nearly 5,000 lbs of towing ability, the second-gen 4Runner became a practical choice for families towing pop-up campers, small boats, or single-axle trailers. It also gained better stability and braking systems, reducing sway and improving confidence on long drives.

Many 4Runner owners from this era appreciated how the SUV handled moderate towing loads, often calling it “a workhorse disguised as a family vehicle.”

Third Generation (1996–2002) Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity

By the late 1990s, Toyota had refined the 4Runner into a true midsize SUV. The third-generation Toyota 4Runner marked a turning point — it gained power, comfort, and stronger towing capability, appealing to both off-road enthusiasts and families needing a dependable tow vehicle.

Powertrain and Performance

The 3rd-gen 4Runner came standard with a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine, but most buyers opted for the 3.4L V6, which produced:

• 183 horsepower
  
• 217 lb-ft of torque
  

This robust V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission provided smoother towing and better highway acceleration, even with moderate loads behind it.

Towing Capacity

The Toyota 4Runner towing capacity (1996–2002) remained consistent at up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The towing performance was nearly identical between 2WD and 4WD models, though the 2WD had a slight edge in total capacity due to its lighter weight.

Model Year	Engine	Drive Type	Max Towing Capacity
1996–2002	3.4L V6	2WD / 4WD	5,000 lbs
1996–2000	2.7L I4	2WD	3,500 lbs

Towing Experience

Owners appreciated the 4Runner’s composure under load. The reinforced frame and suspension system made towing boats, ATVs, and small trailers more comfortable than ever. This generation also introduced ABS brakes and improved aerodynamics, enhancing stability at higher speeds.

“The 3rd-gen 4Runner strikes a perfect balance between old-school toughness and modern drivability. It tows with confidence and handles rough roads effortlessly.”

Pro Tip: If you own or plan to buy a third-gen 4Runner, invest in a transmission cooler for heavy towing—it helps protect your gearbox and ensures smooth performance on hot days or steep grades.

Fourth Generation (2003–2009) Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity

When Toyota launched the fourth-generation 4Runner, it took a major leap forward in both refinement and power. This was the first 4Runner to offer a V8 engine, and it showed in its dramatically improved towing capacity.

Engine Options and Power

• 4.0L V6: 245 hp and 282 lb-ft torque
  
• 4.7L V8: 270 hp and 330 lb-ft torque
  

The 4.7L iForce V8 was a game-changer — giving the 4Runner towing power that rivaled many full-size SUVs at the time. Combined with a stronger frame and better suspension tuning, it transformed the SUV into a serious tow vehicle.

Towing Capacity by Engine

The 4th-gen 4Runner’s towing capacity ranged between 5,000 to 7,300 pounds, depending on configuration.

Model Year	Engine	Drive Type	Max Towing Capacity
2003–2009	4.0L V6	2WD / 4WD	5,000 lbs
2003–2009	4.7L V8	2WD / 4WD	Up to 7,300 lbs

Towing Features and Enhancements

Toyota equipped this generation with towing-focused upgrades:

• Heavy-duty transmission cooler
  
• Class III/IV receiver hitch
  
• Trailer-sway control and traction management
  
• Improved braking system and rear coil springs
  

The result was a smooth, confident towing experience. Many owners found the V8 4Runner capable of pulling medium-sized campers, car trailers, and large boats with ease.

Real-World Insights

With the V8 engine, the 4Runner became a hidden gem for towing enthusiasts. It offered the muscle of a truck while maintaining the reliability Toyota is known for.

One 2007 4Runner owner noted: “I towed a 21-foot travel trailer across Colorado. The V8 never broke a sweat — stable, strong, and predictable.”

If you’re in the used market, the 2006–2009 V8 models are especially popular among towers for their mix of power and dependability.

Fifth Generation (2010–Present) Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity

The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner, still in production today, continues the legacy with a focus on off-road capability and ruggedness. While Toyota discontinued the V8 option, the 4Runner remains a capable tow vehicle for moderate loads.

Engine and Drivetrain

Every 5th-gen 4Runner is powered by the proven 4.0L V6 producing:

• 270 horsepower
  
• 278 lb-ft of torque
  

Available in 2WD or 4WD, all trims—from the SR5 to the TRD Pro—share the same engine and nearly identical towing ratings.

Towing Capacity and Specs

The Toyota 4Runner towing capacity (2010–2025) is rated at 5,000 pounds across all trim levels when properly equipped.

Model Year	Trim / Package	Drive Type	Max Towing Capacity
2010–2025	All trims (SR5, TRD, Limited)	2WD / 4WD	5,000 lbs

Modern Towing Features

Modern 4Runners come standard with:

• Trailer-Sway Control (TSC) to minimize trailer drift
  
• Tow/Haul Mode to optimize shifting under load
  
• Integrated Hitch Receiver and Wiring Harness
  
• Downhill Assist Control (DAC) for stability on descents
  

Real-World Capabilities

The 5th-gen 4Runner may not have the brute strength of the V8 era, but it’s incredibly reliable and balanced. It can easily handle:

• Small to medium travel trailers
  
• Boats up to 22 feet
  
• Motorcycle or ATV trailers
  

Owners praise its smooth torque delivery, stability on highways, and confidence on uneven terrain.

“It’s not a powerhouse, but it’s steady and dependable. I’ve towed my fishing boat every weekend for years without a single issue.”

What to Expect in the Future

Rumors suggest the next-generation Toyota 4Runner will use a turbocharged or hybrid powertrain, likely improving both torque and fuel efficiency—making it an even more capable tow vehicle while meeting modern emissions standards.

For now, the 5th-gen remains a dependable and proven option for drivers who value consistency over raw power.

Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity Chart by Year

To help you clearly see how the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity evolved over time, here’s a complete year-by-year towing chart.
This table includes all five generations, engine options, and drivetrain configurations where applicable.

Model Year	Generation	Engine	Drive Type	Max Towing Capacity (lbs)
1984	1st Gen	2.4L I4	4WD	2,000
1985	1st Gen	2.4L I4	4WD	2,000
1986	1st Gen	3.0L V6	4WD	3,000
1987–1989	1st Gen	3.0L V6	2WD/4WD	3,500
1990–1992	2nd Gen	3.0L V6	2WD	3,500
1993–1995	2nd Gen	3.0L V6 (Tow Pkg)	4WD	5,000
1996–2002	3rd Gen	3.4L V6	2WD/4WD	5,000
1996–2000	3rd Gen	2.7L I4	2WD	3,500
2003–2009	4th Gen	4.0L V6	2WD/4WD	5,000
2003–2009	4th Gen	4.7L V8	2WD/4WD	7,000–7,300
2010–2025	5th Gen	4.0L V6	2WD/4WD	5,000

This data shows how Toyota continuously refined the 4Runner’s towing ability. The 2003–2009 V8 4Runner stands out as the peak of towing performance, while the 5th generation maintains consistency and reliability at 5,000 lbs across all trims.

Quick Insights from the Chart

• Strongest towing years: 2003–2009 (V8 models)
  
• Most consistent towing years: 2010–2025 (V6 models)
  
• Biggest improvement: Between 1984 (2,000 lbs) and 2003 (up to 7,300 lbs)
  
• Most popular towing setup: 4.0L V6 with 2WD, offering good balance between power and efficiency

Comparing Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity to Competitors

When considering the Toyota 4Runner’s towing capacity by year, it’s helpful to see how it stacks up against other midsize SUVs in its class.
While the 4Runner doesn’t lead in raw towing numbers today, its real-world stability and durability often give it the edge for those who tow frequently in challenging conditions.

SUV Model (2025)	Max Towing Capacity	Engine Type	Notes
Toyota 4Runner	5,000 lbs	4.0L V6	Legendary reliability, off-road strength
Jeep Grand Cherokee	7,200 lbs	5.7L V8	Strongest tow rating in class
Ford Explorer	5,600 lbs	3.0L Turbo V6	More power, less off-road focus
Honda Passport	5,000 lbs	3.5L V6	Smooth ride, but FWD-based
Toyota Highlander	5,000 lbs	2.4L Turbo	More refined, less rugged
Chevrolet Blazer	4,500 lbs	3.6L V6	Street-focused SUV

How the 4Runner Holds Its Ground

Despite newer rivals boasting higher ratings, the 4Runner’s truck-based frame and consistent 5,000-lb towing capacity make it uniquely suited for towing off-road or in mountainous regions.
Its body-on-frame construction (unlike the unibody design of most modern SUVs) gives it extra rigidity and control when towing trailers over rough terrain.

Why Many Still Prefer the 4Runner for Towing:

• Proven durability and reliability
  
• Low-end torque ideal for hill climbs or slow-speed towing
  
• Easier aftermarket customization (suspension upgrades, air bags, hitch kits)
  
• Stable towing geometry thanks to its ladder-frame chassis
  

“You don’t buy a 4Runner to chase numbers—you buy it to tow anywhere, even where the pavement ends.”

Evolution of Toyota 4Runner Towing Design and Engineering

Toyota has fine-tuned every new generation of the 4Runner with improvements that enhance towing strength, safety, and comfort.
Here’s how engineering innovations shaped its towing performance over four decades.

Key Developments Over the Years

1. Frame Reinforcement:
   From the first-gen pickup-style chassis to today’s high-strength steel frame, Toyota improved rigidity to reduce trailer sway and frame flex.
   
2. Engine and Torque Upgrades:
   Each generation introduced more torque, crucial for towing heavy loads without straining the transmission.
   
3. Cooling and Transmission Enhancements:
   Later models came standard with transmission oil coolers, ensuring consistent performance even when towing in hot weather.
   
4. Suspension Improvements:
   Progressive coil springs, stabilizer bars, and optional KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) improved both comfort and stability.
   
5. Advanced Towing Tech:
   Features like Tow/Haul Mode and Trailer-Sway Control automatically adjust engine braking and throttle for smoother towing.
   

Case Study: 2008 Toyota 4Runner V8 Towing a 6,000-lb Camper

A 2008 4Runner V8 owner towed a 26-foot travel trailer through Arizona’s high desert.
Despite steep grades and strong crosswinds, the SUV maintained stability and temperature control throughout.
The owner reported:

• Average fuel economy: ~11.5 MPG
  
• Transmission temp: steady at 190°F
  
• No noticeable sway or brake fade
  

This real-world performance underscores why the 4Runner’s engineering focus—balanced torque, cooling, and structural integrity—matters more than raw horsepower alone.

How to Maximize Towing Performance in a Toyota 4Runner

Even though the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity ranges between 3,500 to 7,300 pounds depending on the year, your real-world performance depends largely on how well you prepare and maintain your vehicle.
Proper setup and maintenance can make the difference between a smooth towing trip and an overheated transmission or unstable trailer.

Essential Tips for Better Towing

1. Use the Right Equipment
   
   • Install a Class III or Class IV hitch (depending on your trailer weight).
     
   • Use a weight-distributing hitch for trailers over 4,000 lbs to keep the 4Runner level.
     
   • Add a brake controller for trailers with electric brakes — this greatly improves stopping power.
     
2. Balance Your Load
   
   • Aim for 10–15% tongue weight (the downward pressure of the trailer on the hitch).
     
   • Keep heavier items low and centered in the trailer.
     
   • Avoid loading too much weight behind the trailer axle to prevent sway.
     
3. Check Tire Pressure and Condition
   
   • Maintain correct tire pressure on both the 4Runner and the trailer.
     
   • Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and heat buildup — both enemies of safe towing.
     
4. Watch Transmission Temperature
   
   • Heat is the number one enemy of automatic transmissions.
     
   • Use Tow/Haul mode (available in 5th-gen models) to reduce gear hunting and control transmission temperature.
     
   • Consider installing an aftermarket transmission cooler for older generations.
     
5. Upgrade Suspension for Heavy Loads
   
   • If you tow frequently, install air springs or rear suspension helpers to reduce sag and improve control.
     
   • The 4Runner’s solid rear axle responds well to these upgrades without compromising off-road flexibility.
     

Quick Checklist Before Every Tow

• Check trailer lights and connections
  
• Inspect hitch pin and safety chains
  
• Confirm brake controller function
  
• Adjust mirrors for clear trailer visibility
  
• Verify trailer tires’ age and condition
  

“A properly set up 4Runner can tow smoothly for hundreds of miles. Preparation is what turns capability into confidence.”

Common Mistakes When Towing with a Toyota 4Runner

Even the most capable SUVs can struggle if towing mistakes are made. Many 4Runner owners unintentionally reduce their towing efficiency — or worse, put themselves at risk — by overlooking simple but crucial details.

Here are the most common towing mistakes to avoid:

1. Overloading the Trailer

Exceeding your 4Runner’s rated towing capacity strains the drivetrain, brakes, and suspension.
If your 4Runner’s towing limit is 5,000 lbs, stay at or below 4,500 lbs for optimal safety.

Tip: Always factor in the weight of gear, passengers, and fluids (gas, water, propane) — these all count toward your total load.

2. Ignoring Payload Limits

While towing capacity gets most of the attention, payload capacity (the total weight inside your vehicle) is just as important.
A fully loaded cabin or roof rack reduces how much trailer weight your 4Runner can safely handle.

3. Using the Wrong Hitch Setup

Many drivers rely on basic ball mounts that don’t match their trailer height.
An unlevel trailer can cause:

• Poor braking response
  
• Excessive sway
  
• Uneven tire wear
  

Always ensure the trailer rides level when hitched to your 4Runner.

4. Neglecting Maintenance

A 4Runner that hasn’t had its fluids changed or brakes serviced can overheat or lose braking performance under load.
Follow Toyota’s maintenance schedule closely if you tow frequently:

• Engine oil: every 5,000 miles
  
• Transmission fluid: every 30,000–40,000 miles (more often for heavy towing)
  
• Brake fluid: every 2 years
  

5. Forgetting to Adjust Driving Habits

Towing changes everything — braking distances increase, acceleration slows, and cornering requires care.
Maintain longer following distances and take turns wider than usual.
And when descending steep grades, downshift instead of riding the brakes.

“Towing safely isn’t just about power — it’s about control. The 4Runner gives you both, but only if you respect its limits.”

Safety Features That Support Towing in the Toyota 4Runner

Toyota designed the 4Runner not only to be tough but also to keep you and your trailer safe. Over the generations, the brand has introduced advanced systems that make towing smoother and more predictable, even in difficult conditions.

Core Safety Systems for Towing

• Trailer-Sway Control (TSC):
  Automatically detects trailer movement and applies brakes selectively to keep the trailer aligned.
  Especially useful when towing on windy highways or uneven roads.
  
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC):
  Helps maintain control if traction is lost, reducing the risk of fishtailing when towing heavy loads.
  
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS):
  Prevents wheel lock-up during sudden stops, giving the driver better steering control with a trailer in tow.
  
• Tow/Haul Mode:
  Adjusts the transmission’s shift pattern for smoother acceleration and engine braking when pulling a trailer.
  
• Downhill Assist Control (DAC):
  Found in newer 4Runners, this system maintains a steady, controlled descent speed when towing downhill.
  

Optional Add-Ons and Aftermarket Upgrades

• Integrated brake controllers (for 5th-gen models)
  
• Rearview camera with trailer guidelines
  
• Extended towing mirrors
  
• Aftermarket transmission coolers for older models
  

Real-World Example

A 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road towing a dual-axle boat trailer (approx. 4,800 lbs) from Denver to Yellowstone reported:

• Stable highway handling, even in crosswinds
  
• Minimal sway due to Trailer-Sway Control
  
• No overheating, thanks to the factory transmission cooler
  

The driver concluded:

“The 4Runner doesn’t just tow — it protects you while doing it. You feel the engineering working quietly in the background.”

Safety Features That Support Towing in Toyota 4Runner

Toyota has steadily improved the 4Runner’s towing safety over the years, integrating technology that gives drivers more confidence when pulling a trailer or camper.
Below are the most important systems that make a big difference when towing, especially in newer generations.

Advanced Towing Safety Systems

• Trailer-Sway Control (TSC): Detects and minimizes trailer movement automatically by applying brake pressure to individual wheels.
  
• Tow/Haul Mode: Optimizes gear shifting and throttle response to manage extra weight, preventing transmission strain.
  
• Downhill Assist Control (DAC): Maintains steady, controlled descent speed while towing downhill.
  
• Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC): Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline.
  
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): Enhances traction and steering stability, especially important when towing on slick or uneven surfaces.
  

Why These Systems Matter

A midsize SUV like the 4Runner often tows loads near its capacity limit. These safety features help maintain stability, braking efficiency, and control — especially in adverse conditions like wind, rain, or gravel roads.

“The 4Runner’s technology doesn’t just assist the driver — it actively safeguards the towing experience.”

Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Toyota 4Runner towing capacity, answered with accurate and up-to-date details.

What Is the Maximum Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity?

The highest towing capacity ever offered on a Toyota 4Runner was 7,300 pounds — available on 2003–2009 models with the 4.7L V8 engine.
Current (2010–2025) models with the 4.0L V6 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Which Toyota 4Runner Year Tows the Most?

The 2006–2009 V8 4Runners are considered the best years for towing heavy loads due to their power, torque, and stability.
If you’re shopping for a used 4Runner primarily for towing, these years offer the best combination of muscle and dependability.

Can a Toyota 4Runner Tow a Camper or Travel Trailer?

Yes. The 4Runner can safely tow most pop-up campers, small to mid-size travel trailers, and boats under 5,000 pounds.
Popular camper options compatible with the 4Runner include:

• Airstream Bambi 16RB (~3,000 lbs)
  
• Forest River R-Pod 180 (~2,800 lbs)
  
• Scamp 19’ Deluxe (~2,400 lbs)
  

What’s the Best Setup for Towing with a 4Runner?

To get the most out of your 4Runner:

• Use a Class III or Class IV hitch
  
• Install a brake controller
  
• Keep tires inflated to factory specs
  
• Balance your load and stay under 80–85% of max capacity for safety
  

Can You Increase the Toyota 4Runner’s Towing Capacity?

While you can’t legally exceed Toyota’s official rating, you can improve towing performance with the right accessories:

• Transmission cooler
  
• Heavy-duty rear springs or air bags
  
• Upgraded brakes and rotors
  
• Weight-distribution hitch system
  

Does the 4Runner Have a Towing Package?

Yes. Most trims from 2010 onward come factory-equipped with a receiver hitch, wiring harness, and 4-/7-pin connectors. Older generations offered these as optional packages.

Conclusion: Is the Toyota 4Runner a Good Towing SUV?

The Toyota 4Runner towing capacity by year shows a clear story of progress — from a modest 2,000 pounds in the 1980s to a strong and consistent 5,000+ pounds today.
What makes the 4Runner stand out isn’t just its raw numbers, but its long-term reliability, rugged frame, and real-world performance.

Best Toyota 4Runners for Towing

• Top Performer: 2006–2009 4.7L V8 (up to 7,300 lbs)
  
• Most Reliable Modern Option: 2014–2025 4.0L V6 (5,000 lbs, proven stability and comfort)
  
• Best Budget Option: 1996–2002 3.4L V6 (5,000 lbs with excellent durability)
  

Whether you’re towing a boat, camper, or trailer full of gear, the 4Runner continues to be one of the most dependable and versatile SUVs available. Its truck-based construction and Toyota engineering ensure that even after decades on the road, it remains a trusted choice for towing enthusiasts.

“The Toyota 4Runner doesn’t chase trends — it builds trust. Its towing capacity may not always top the charts, but it delivers every mile of the way.”

For those looking to explore official specifications and tow ratings, visit Toyota’s official Towing Guide for detailed, manufacturer-provided data and recommendations.