How Much Weight Can the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Tow?
If you’re eyeing the 2025 Toyota 4Runner for its legendary off-road chops, you’re probably just as curious about its towing muscle. The big news: Toyota’s latest 4Runner can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped. That’s a solid jump from the outgoing model, which maxed out at 5,000 pounds. For anyone with a boat, a couple of jet skis, or a medium-sized camper, this opens up a lot more possibilities for weekend adventures.
What’s behind the bump in capability? Toyota’s re-engineered the 4Runner’s frame and suspension, borrowing tech from the beefier Tacoma and Tundra pickups. The result is a midsize SUV that feels more confident with a trailer in tow, especially on hilly or uneven terrain. And if you’re worried about stability, Toyota’s built-in Trailer Sway Control system is now standard, helping keep things steady when crosswinds or passing trucks try to throw you off course.
Is the Hybrid 4Runner Better for Towing?
Here’s where things get interesting. The 2025 4Runner debuts with both a traditional gas engine and a new hybrid option, dubbed i-FORCE MAX. The hybrid pairs a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor, delivering a combined 326 horsepower and a whopping 465 lb-ft of torque. On paper, that torque figure is a towing enthusiast’s dream.
But there’s a catch: the hybrid’s maximum tow rating is 5,000 pounds—1,000 pounds less than the gas-only version. Why? It comes down to cooling and battery constraints. Hybrids excel at low-speed grunt and city driving, but sustained heavy towing puts extra strain on the electric components. Toyota’s engineers have prioritized long-term reliability over headline numbers, so they’ve capped the hybrid’s tow rating accordingly.
That said, the hybrid shines if you’re mostly hauling lighter loads or want better fuel economy when not towing. Real-world tests and early owner feedback suggest the hybrid 4Runner can return up to 24 mpg combined, compared to around 20 mpg for the gas version. If your towing needs are occasional and you value efficiency, the hybrid’s a smart pick.
What Kind of Trailers Can You Realistically Tow?
Let’s break it down. With a 6,000-pound tow rating, the gas-powered 4Runner can handle:
– A 20-foot travel trailer or small Airstream
– Dual jet skis or a mid-size fishing boat
– A pair of ATVs or dirt bikes on a trailer
– A compact horse trailer with one or two horses
The hybrid, with its 5,000-pound limit, is still plenty capable for most family toys—think pop-up campers, small boats, or a loaded utility trailer for weekend projects. Just remember to factor in the weight of passengers, gear, and fluids when calculating your total load. Overloading isn’t just a safety risk; it can also void your warranty.
How Does the 2025 4Runner Compare to Rivals?
Toyota’s bumped the 4Runner up a notch, but how does it stack up against the competition? The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, two of its closest rivals, top out at 3,500 and 3,500-5,000 pounds respectively, depending on configuration. The new Chevy Traverse and Honda Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but neither matches the 4Runner’s off-road cred or rugged frame.
In short, if you need a midsize SUV that can confidently tow a real trailer and still tackle backcountry trails, the 2025 4Runner is now one of the top choices in its class. It’s not quite a full-size pickup, but it’s a big step up from most crossovers.
What Should You Know Before Towing With a 4Runner?
A few practical tips can make all the difference. First, always check your specific model’s tow rating—TRD Pro and Off-Road trims may have slightly different numbers based on equipment. Invest in a quality weight-distributing hitch if you’re near the upper end of the tow limit. And don’t forget to use Toyota’s integrated trailer brake controller if your trailer is over 1,000 pounds.
One more thing: tire pressure matters. Underinflated tires can make towing feel squirrelly, especially at highway speeds. Double-check your pressures before every trip, and consider upgrading to load-rated tires if you’re a frequent hauler.
The Big Takeaway
Towing with the 2025 Toyota 4Runner isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Whether you go gas or hybrid, know your limits, prep your gear, and you’ll find the new 4Runner is more than up for the challenge. Start with one change this week—maybe a hitch upgrade or a tire check—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.
