Towing FAQs

When it comes to capability, everyone knows that Toyota vehicles represent a standout balance of strength and efficiency. That said, many members of our community have contacted us with questions about towing, including what factors impact a vehicle’s ability to tow and just how exceptional the Toyota 4Runner towing capacity truly is. To help answer these frequently asked questions pertaining to hauling, our local Toyota dealership in La Crescenta, CA, composed this brief guide!

Q: What is the Towing Capacity of the Toyota 4Runner?

A: The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is characterized by a musclebound four-liter V6 engine that delivers a robust 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. That enables these rugged SUVs to haul up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped by our Toyota service center, making them perfect for towing everything from equipment trailers to small campers!

Q: What Factors Contribute to a Vehicle’s Towing Capacity?

A: In simplest terms, the towing capacity of your vehicle is determined by two elements: your vehicle’s structural build and its powertrain. Rugged vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner or Toyota Highlander are built to sustain heavy loads, both inside and out.

Your SUV or truck’s engine and drivetrain also play a major role in determining your ability to tow, with higher performance ratings generally translating to larger towing capabilities. Torque – the twisting force applied to your wheels – plays a particularly important role, as it provides the powerful grip to propel you and your cargo forward.

Q: GCVWR, GTW, GAWR – What Does It All Mean?

A: Vehicle trailering specifications are rife with acronyms, but don’t let this alphabet soup get you down! GCVWR stands for “Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating” and refers to the full weight of your vehicle (including passengers and operational fluids like gasoline), your towing trailer, and cargo combined. Your towing capacity can be calculated by subtracting your vehicle’s curb weight from its GCVWR.

GTW stands for “Gross Trailer Weight” and includes the weight of your trailer and its contents, while GAWR is short for “Gross Axle Weight Rating” and refers to the maximum weight a single axle of your vehicle can support. This is important to know when balancing your trailering cargo and interior payload so that you do not overweight either of your axles.

Browse New Toyota Inventory at Bob Smith Toyota

Still puzzling over the fine points of trailering? Not to worry! Our helpful associates at Bob Smith Toyota are on hand and ready to help answer all of your questions. Call or visit us online today to explore the many capable Toyota SUVs, sedans, and trucks in our fleet!