The 2016 Toyota Tacoma remains a popular midsize pickup truck, especially among drivers who value ruggedness, reliability, and capable performance. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a tradesperson, or someone who needs to haul trailers regularly, understanding the towing capacity of the 2016 Tacoma is essential. This comprehensive guide dives into everything you need to know about the towing potential of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma when equipped with the Toyota Towing Package.
Understanding Towing Capacity
Before diving into the specifics of the 2016 Tacoma’s capabilities, it’s crucial to define towing capacity and understand the factors that influence it. Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely pull behind it in the form of a trailer. This number is determined by the vehicle manufacturer through rigorous testing and is influenced by various components, including the:
- Engine type and power output
- Transmission
- Frame strength and suspension
- Cooling system upgrades
- Braking system
- Whether a towing package is installed
When considering the 2016 Toyota Tacoma, it’s important to note that towing capacity varies depending on several factors, including:
- Cab style (Regular, Double, or Crew Cab)
- Bed length (short or long)
- Drivetrain (2WD or 4WD)
- Engine size
- Whether the vehicle is equipped with Toyota’s Towing Package
Towing Capacity of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma with Tow Package
With the Toyota Towing Package installed, the 2016 Toyota Tacoma significantly increases its towing potential. The increase largely depends on the configuration of the vehicle, but generally, the Towing Package helps models equipped with the V6 engine achieve the maximum manufacturer-rated towing capacity.
Base Vehicle Specifications
The 2016 Tacoma was offered with two engine choices:
- A 2.7L inline-four producing 159 hp (primarily in entry-level trim levels)
- A 3.5L V6 generating 278 hp (standard on most trims and ideal for towing)
While the i4 engine is fuel-efficient and adequate for daily driving, it’s not recommended for heavy towing. Therefore, most discussions around the Tacoma’s towing capacity center around models equipped with the 3.5L V6.
How Does the Towing Package Affect Towing Capacity?
Toyota’s Towing Package (available as an option) includes several critical components that help maximize the vehicle’s trailer-towing performance. These include:
- An upgraded radiator for better cooling
- Integrated trailer hitch wiring harness
- A heavy-duty battery
- Enhanced engine cooling systems (including a transmission oil cooler)
- A Class IV receiver hitch
These enhancements optimize heat dissipation and electrical systems, both of which are vital when towing heavy loads over long distances or challenging terrain.
Maximum Towing Capacity by Configuration
When equipped with the Towing Package, the V6-powered 2016 Toyota Tacoma achieves the following maximum towing capacities depending on trim and configuration:
| Trim Level | Drivetrain | Cab/Bed Configuration | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tacoma Access Cab 6′ Bed | RWD | Access Cab / 6′ Bed | 3,500 |
| Tacoma Access Cab 6′ Bed | 4WD | Access Cab / 6′ Bed | 3,500 |
| Tacoma Double Cab 6′ Bed | RWD | Double Cab / 6′ Bed | 6,400 |
| Tacoma Double Cab 6′ Bed | 4WD | Double Cab / 6′ Bed | 6,400 |
| Tacoma Crew Cab Long Bed | RWD | Crew Cab / Long Bed | 6,500 |
| Tacoma Crew Cab Long Bed | 4WD | Crew Cab / Long Bed | 6,500 |
Key Observations
- The Double Cab and Crew Cab models achieve much higher towing capacity due to their longer wheelbase, better weight distribution, and more structural rigidity.
- 4WD models do not have reduced towing capability, particularly when equipped with the proper equipment.
- Vehicles without the Towing Package typically see towing capacities reduced by up to 1,000 lbs or more.
Why Cab and Bed Configuration Matters for Towing
The towing performance of any pickup truck is not solely dependent on engine power or transmission. Chassis design—particularly cab and bed layout—plays a central role in weight distribution, structural rigidity, and center of gravity, all of which are crucial for safe towing.
Double Cab vs. Crew Cab vs. Access Cab
- The double cab offers a balance between passenger space and towing capability. It’s the most popular configuration for families and everyday drivers who occasionally tow.
- The crew cab model, introduced in 2016 as the most spacious, adds additional rigidity to the frame, contributing to slightly higher maximum towing capacities (up to 6,500 lbs).
- The access cab, while still capable, has a shorter rear overhang and lighter overall frame. This design contributes to lower towing capacities, maxing out at around 3,500 lbs when equipped with a tow package.
Bed Length and Towing Stability
A longer bed allows for better weight distribution and can reduce the risk of trailer sway. While the long bed of the 2016 Tacoma Crew Cab model does add weight to the rear, it also enhances stability when hauling heavier trailers.
Engine and Transmission Specifications
The engine is the heart of the Tacoma’s towing capabilities. Only the V6 engine is suitable for serious towing efforts, especially when backed by the Towing Package.
V6 Engine Performance
The 3.5L V6 engine in the 2016 Toyota Tacoma delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, this engine can handle moderate to heavy towing assignments with confidence.
Upgraded Components Through the Towing Package
The Towing Package includes:
- Enhanced engine oil cooler
- Heavy-duty wiring harness for electric trailer brakes and lights
- A reinforced hitch mount with trailer sway control
These modifications reduce engine strain and improve electrical and safety systems vital for towing.
Weight Distribution and Payload Capacity
Towing capacity doesn’t exist in isolation—it must be considered alongside payload capacity, which is the amount of weight your truck can carry in its cabin and bed.
Payload Capacity of the 2016 Tacoma
Depending on configurations, the payload capacity of the 2016 Tacoma with the tow package generally ranges between 1,000 to 1,650 lbs. This includes:
- The weight of passengers
- Cargo in the truck bed
- Hitch weight (typically 10–15% of trailer weight)
If you’re planning a heavy-duty towing mission, payload and trailer weight must be calculated together to avoid overloading your vehicle.
Understanding Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the maximum allowable combined weight of your fully loaded Tacoma and the trailer it’s pulling. For a properly equipped 2016 Tacoma V6 with Towing Package, this rating is approximately 11,550 lbs.
Therefore, subtracting the truck’s weight (roughly 4,200–4,800 lbs depending on trim), the trailer should not exceed the 6,400–6,500 lbs figure.
Real-World Towing Performance
While manufacturer numbers are vital, real-world performance gives us insight into how drivers are actually using the 2016 Tacoma with the Towing Package.
Trailer Types Commonly Towed
Owners frequently report towing:
- Travel trailers (2,500–5,500 lbs)
- Small boats on trailers
- ATV or motorcycle trailers
- Equipment trailers for contractors and landscapers
Towing heavier loads like large RVs or fifth wheels is not recommended for this chassis.
Road Conditions and Towing
It’s important to consider real-world variables like:
- Elevation and hilly terrain: These can test engine cooling systems and transmission stress.
- Wind and weather: Crosswinds or rain can affect trailer stability.
- Towing frequency: Daily towing may require more frequent maintenance.
Many Tacoma owners with the Towing Package have successfully towed near the upper limit without issues, especially when maintaining consistent driving habits and conducting regular vehicle checks.
Additional Components for Better Towing Performance
While the Toyota Towing Package adds most of the essentials, owners often invest in additional upgrades to enhance performance, safety, and durability.
Aftermarket Upgrades
- Remote trailer brake controller – Adds better control over trailer braking.
- Gooseneck hitch adapters – Allow for better weight distribution, though often unnecessary for the Tacoma chassis.
- Suspension upgrades and rear shocks – Help manage increased load and improve ride quality.
Maintenance Practices
The strain towing places on your truck calls for:
- More frequent oil and fluid changes
- Regular inspection of brakes and cooling systems
- Monitoring tire pressure and wear
Is the 2016 Tacoma with Tow Package Right for You?
When equipped properly, the 2016 Toyota Tacoma can be a highly capable towing machine for its class. It suits people who need:
- Reliable performance on and off-road
- Easy-to-service parts and proven durability
- A vehicle that tows mid-sized trailers, boats, or utility trailers
It is, however, not built for ultra-heavy hauling, so if you need to move larger trailers regularly, consider a full-size truck like the Toyota Tundra.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2016 Toyota Tacoma with the Towing Package—especially when powered by the 3.5L V6 engine—offers class-competitive towing capabilities. With configurations like the Double Cab and Crew Cab, buyers can achieve a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 lbs. By understanding your vehicle’s configuration, considering payload limitations, and maintaining your truck appropriately, you can safely and effectively use your 2016 Tacoma for a wide range of towing purposes.
Key Takeaways
- The maximum towing capacity of the 2016 Tacoma with Towing Package is up to **6,500 lbs**.
- The V6 engine paired with a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive system and Double or Crew Cab models achieves the best towing capacity.
- Always verify your specific vehicle configuration and follow Toyota’s towing recommendations.
- Regular maintenance and awareness of GCWR and payload are critical for safe towing.
Before hitching up, always refer to your owner’s manual or consult with a Toyota dealership to confirm your vehicle’s exact maximum limits. Safe travels!
What is the towing capacity of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma with the tow package?
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma equipped with the factory towing package has a maximum towing capacity of approximately 6,500 pounds. This figure applies to models with the 3.5L V6 engine and an automatic transmission, specifically the Access Cab and Double Cab configurations. The towing capacity can vary slightly based on the truck’s configuration, such as bed length, drivetrain type (4×2 or 4×4), and additional accessories or modifications.
Toyota engineers the towing package to enhance the Tacoma’s capabilities by including features like a heavy-duty radiator, an auxiliary transmission cooler, and a high-output alternator. These enhancements ensure the vehicle can manage the additional stress of towing without overheating or straining the electrical system. To remain within safe towing limits, always verify the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and factor in the weight of passengers, cargo, and fuel when calculating your total load.
What components are included in the Tacoma’s towing package?
The factory towing package for the 2016 Toyota Tacoma includes a number of critical components designed to improve the vehicle’s ability to tow safely and efficiently. These typically include a Class IV receiver hitch, a wiring harness for trailer lights, a high-capacity cooling system, and a heavy-duty alternator. The hitch is usually mounted with reinforced frame brackets for added strength and towing stability. These components work together to ensure the Tacoma can handle extra loads without compromising performance or safety.
In addition to mechanical upgrades, the towing package also supports the use of a trailer brake controller, which allows for synchronization of the trailer’s brakes with the vehicle’s braking system. This is an essential feature for maintaining control and stopping power when hauling heavier loads. Toyota ensures that these towing-specific upgrades are integrated seamlessly with the overall vehicle systems, ensuring reliability and durability even under demanding towing conditions.
Does the engine type affect the towing capacity of the 2016 Tacoma?
Yes, the engine type significantly affects the towing capacity of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma. The standard engine in the 2016 model year is a 2.7L four-cylinder, which has a much lower towing capacity, typically limited to around 3,500 pounds. However, the optional 3.5L V6 engine dramatically increases this capacity to up to 6,500 pounds, especially when paired with the automatic transmission and the towing package. The V6 engine provides not only more horsepower and torque but also improved durability under towing stress.
Torque is especially important when towing because it affects a vehicle’s ability to start moving from a stop while hauling a heavy load. The 3.5L V6 engine produces significantly more torque than the four-cylinder engine, making it more suitable for towing trailers, boats, or campers. Therefore, for users who plan on doing consistent or heavy towing, choosing the V6 engine is highly recommended, as it allows the Tacoma to perform more effectively under load while also reducing engine wear over time.
Can changing the drivetrain affect the towing capacity of my Tacoma?
Yes, the drivetrain can influence the towing capacity of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma. Front-wheel drive (FWD) versions, also known as 4×2, tend to have identical or similar towing capacities to their four-wheel drive (4×4) counterparts when equipped with the same engine and towing package. However, 4×4 models may weigh slightly more due to the additional drivetrain components, which can reduce the available payload and indirectly affect the maximum trailer weight that can be towed safely.
Despite the negligible difference in ratings, weight distribution and traction can be affected by the drivetrain in real-world conditions. A 4×4 system provides better handling and grip in off-road or challenging weather conditions, which can improve towing stability and safety. Therefore, while the official tow ratings may remain consistent between 4×2 and 4×4 trims, the intended usage and terrain should be considered when choosing which drivetrain is best suited for your towing needs.
How do I determine if my Tacoma has the factory tow package?
To determine if your 2016 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with the factory towing package, you can begin by checking the vehicle’s window sticker or original build sheet, which should list the package as an option. If you’re unsure about your Tacoma’s configuration, locating the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and contacting a Toyota dealership or using an online VIN decoder can help verify whether the factory towing package was included when the vehicle was manufactured.
Additionally, you can inspect the vehicle for physical indicators of the towing package. These typically include a 4- and 7-pin trailer wiring harness connector under the rear bumper, a Class IV hitch mount usually labeled “Toyota” or “Draw-Tite,” and possibly a trailer brake controller mount under the dashboard. There may also be a sticker in the glove compartment or under the hood that includes specific towing capacity details based on your trim and package configuration.
How does payload affect the towing capacity of the 2016 Tacoma?
Payload capacity refers to the total weight a vehicle can carry, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer. In the 2016 Toyota Tacoma, the payload and towing capacities are related because the total weight of everything in the truck affects how much trailer weight the vehicle can tow safely. For instance, if your Tacoma’s payload capacity is 1,500 pounds and you are carrying 800 pounds of passengers and cargo, the remaining capacity for trailer tongue weight is just 700 pounds.
Since trailer tongue weight should generally be about 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight, this means your towing capacity could be reduced by up to several hundred pounds depending on how the vehicle is loaded. Ensuring that you’re within both payload and towing limits helps maintain vehicle stability, braking efficiency, and overall safety. Always factor in your payload when calculating how much trailer weight your Tacoma can safely tow.
What are some tips for safely towing with a 2016 Toyota Tacoma?
When towing with your 2016 Toyota Tacoma, it’s essential to follow safe towing practices to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Start by confirming your Tacoma’s exact towing capacity based on its engine, drivetrain, and package configuration. Always stay within this limit and never exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of your vehicle and trailer combined. Equally important is ensuring that the trailer is properly loaded and that the tongue weight is correct, ideally 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight.
Additionally, maintain your vehicle regularly when towing frequently. This includes checking the cooling system, brakes, tires, and suspension components more often. Use a trailer brake controller to manage heavier trailers and upgrade your mirrors for better visibility. Always perform a pre-tow inspection to verify hitch tightness, trailer light connections, and proper fluid levels. These steps will not only improve safety but also protect your investment and enhance your towing experience.