2021 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity and Payload (Charts)
In this article, we will take a closer look at the 2021 Toyota Tundra towing and payload capacity, exploring the different factors that can impact these capabilities.
We will also provide charts that highlight the Tundra’s towing and payload capacity giving you a clear idea of what this powerful truck is capable of.
The 2021 Toyota Tundra has a maximum Towing Capacity between 8,800 – 10,200 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,730 pounds. This can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.
2021 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity and Payload Capacity Chart
| Engine | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7 L 4×2 Standard Bed | 1,730 | 5,170 | 10,200 | 14,000 |
| 5.7 L 4×4 Standard Bed | 1,630 | 5,470 | 9,900 | 14,000 |
| 5.7 L 4×2 Long Bed | 1,700 | 5,300 | 10,100 | 14,000 |
| 5.7 L 4×4 Long Bed | 1,600 | 5,600 | 9,800 | 14,000 |
This table shows the different configurations of the 2021 Toyota Tundra and their corresponding payload capacity, curb weight, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), towing capacity, and gross combined weight rating (GCWR).
It is also crucial to remember that the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer should not surpass the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the Toyota Tundra.
Here I’ve collected all the 2021 Toyota Tundra towing and payload capacity information from the official Toyota resources that include the 2021 Toyota Tundra Brochure and 2021 Toyota Tundra.
Table of Contents
- 2021 Toyota Tundra vs. Competitors Towing Capacity
- 2021 Toyota Tundra Overview
- 2021 Toyota Tundra Trims
- Towing Capacity By Engines
- 2021 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Trims
- 2021 Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity
- 2021 Toyota Tundra 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
- Maximum Tongue Load of Toyota Tundra
- What is the 2021 Toyota Tundra Curb Weight and GVWR?
- Useful Resources
- Conclusion
2021 Toyota Tundra Overview
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2021 Toyota Tundra is its range of bed sizes.
Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose from three different lengths: short, standard, and long.
The short bed measures 5.5 ft, while the standard bed is 6.5 ft and the long bed is 8.1 ft.
Another important consideration when choosing a 2021 Toyota Tundra is the cab configuration.
There are two options available: the Double Cab and the CrewMax. Both cabs provide seating for up to six passengers, but there are some key differences between them.
While there are several different configurations available for the 2021 Toyota Tundra, there is only one engine option: a 5.7 L V8.
2021 Toyota Tundra Trims
The 2021 Toyota Tundra comes in six different trims, each with its own set of features and options. Here’s the list of the trims:
- SR
- SR5
- Limited
- Platinum
- 1794 Edition
- TRD Pro
Let’s back to the topic!
Towing Capacity By Engines
The 2021 Toyota Tundra is powered by a single engine type – the I-FORCE 5.7 L V8 engine.
This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and delivers an impressive 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm.
What does this mean for towing? Well, it means that the Tundra has plenty of power to haul heavy loads without breaking a sweat.
5.7-liter i-FORCE® V8 engine
So, just how much weight can the 2021 Toyota Tundra tow?
With the right equipment, this truck can tow up to 10,200 lbs. That’s more than enough to handle most trailers, boats, and other heavy-duty equipment.
It’s important to note that this maximum towing capacity requires the addition of a towing package.
| Configurations | Maximum Towing Capacity (4×2/4×4) |
|---|---|
| 5.7L V8 Standard Bed (4×2/4×4) | 10,200/9,900 lbs. |
| 5.7L V8 Long Bed (4×2/4×4) | 10,100/9,800 lbs. |
| 5.7L V8 Short Bed (4×2/4×4) | 10,100/9,800 lbs. |
Towing Package for 2021 Toyota Tundra
While there isn’t a major towing package that significantly impacts the Tundra’s towing capabilities, there are several features that come standard on all trims that make towing easier and safer. These include:
- Integrated towing receiver hitch: The Tundra comes equipped with a built-in receiver hitch that makes it easy to attach a trailer.
- 4.30 axle ratio: This helps provide better acceleration when towing heavy loads.
- TOW/HAUL Mode Switch: This feature adjusts the transmission shift points to optimize performance when towing.
- Trailer brake controller: The Tundra’s trailer brake controller helps ensure that your trailer brakes are synchronized with your truck’s brakes for safer stopping.
- Heavy-duty battery and 170-amp alternator: These features provide ample power to run all of your towing equipment without draining your battery.
- 4-/7-pin connector: The Tundra comes equipped with both a 4-pin and 7-pin connector, making it easy to connect to different types of trailers.
- Trailer Sway Control: This feature uses sensors to detect sway caused by crosswinds or uneven roads and applies brakes selectively to help keep the trailer under control.
2021 Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity By Trims
With its impressive range of towing capacities across different trims, this vehicle can handle any job you throw at it.
Let’s take a closer look at the towing capacity by trim for the 2021 Toyota Tundra:
SR Trim
The SR trim offers a towing capacity ranging from 9,800 to 10,200 lbs depending on the drive, engine, cab size, and bed size. The GCWR (gross combined weight rating) for all configurations is 14,000 lbs.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 10,200 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 9,900 | 14,000 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Long | 10,100 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Long | 9,800 | 14,000 |
SR5 Trim
The SR5 trim also has a towing capacity between 9,800 and 10,200 lbs, with the same options as the SR trim. However, the SR5 also includes a CrewMax Short configuration that can tow up to 10,100 lbs. Again, the GCWR for all configurations is 14,000 lbs.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 10,200 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 9,900 | 14,000 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Long | 10,100 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Long | 9,800 | 14,000 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 10,100 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 9,800 | 14,000 |
Limited Trim
The Limited trim has a slightly lower towing capacity than the previous two trims, ranging from 8,800 to 10,100 lbs. This depends on the drive, engine, cab size, and bed size. The GCWR remains at 14,000 lbs for all configurations.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 10,100 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 9,100 | 14,000 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 9,400 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 8,800 | 14,000 |
Platinum Trim
The Platinum trim has a towing capacity between 8,800 and 9,400 lbs, with only one option: a CrewMax Short configuration. As with the other trims, the GCWR is 14,000 lbs.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 9,400 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 8,800 | 14,000 |
1794 Edition Trim
The 1794 Edition trim shares the same towing capacity as the Platinum trim, with a range of 8,800 to 9,400 lbs. It also only comes in a CrewMax Short configuration, with a GCWR of 14,000 lbs.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 9,400 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 8,800 | 14,000 |
TRD Pro Trim
Finally, the TRD Pro trim has a towing capacity between 9,200 and 9,900 lbs. This is only available in two configurations: Double Standard and CrewMax Short. The GCWR for both options is 14,000 lbs.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Towing Capacity (lbs) | GCWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double Cab | Standard | 9,900 | 14,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 9,200 | 14,000 |
Not sure about your Toyota specs? Try out this VIN Decoder to find out or read more about How to Find a VIN Number.
2021 Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity
Firstly, let’s define what we mean by “payload capacity.”
Payload capacity is the total weight that a vehicle can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and any accessories or modifications.
It’s important to note that payload capacity is not the same as towing capacity, which refers to the amount of weight that a vehicle can tow behind it.
The 2021 Toyota Tundra has a respectable payload capacity, with the ability to carry up to 1,730 pounds.
However, it’s worth noting that this number can vary depending on the specific model and configuration of the truck.
Let’s take a closer look at the different options available for the 2021 Toyota Tundra and their respective payload capacities.
SR Trim
Starting with the SR model, the 2021 Toyota Tundra SR has a payload capacity between 1,600 lbs and 1,730 lbs. This varies based on the drive type, engine size, cab size, bed size, curb weight, and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating).
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,730 | 5,170 | 6,900 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,630 | 5,470 | 7,100 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double | Long | 1,700 | 5,300 | 7,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double | Long | 1,600 | 5,600 | 7,200 |
For example, a 4×2 double cab standard bed with a 5.7L engine has a payload capacity of 1,730 lbs, while a 4×4 double cab long bed with the same engine has a slightly lower payload capacity of 1,600 lbs.
SR5 Trim
Moving on to the SR5 model, the 2021 Toyota Tundra SR5 has a payload capacity between 1,560 lbs and 1,730 lbs. Again, this varies based on the specific configuration of the truck.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,730 | 5,170 | 6,900 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,630 | 5,470 | 7,100 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double | Long | 1,700 | 5,300 | 7,000 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double | Long | 1,600 | 5,600 | 7,200 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,660 | 5,340 | N/A |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,560 | 5,640 | N/A |
For example, a 4×2 double cab standard bed with a 5.7L engine has a payload capacity of 1,730 lbs, while a 4×4 CrewMax short bed with the same engine has a slightly lower payload capacity of 1,560 lbs.
Limited Trim
The Limited model of the 2021 Toyota Tundra has a payload capacity between 1,520 lbs and 1,660 lbs. This is slightly lower than the SR and SR5 models, but still respectable for most hauling needs.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,660 | 5,240 | 6,900 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,570 | 5,530 | 7,100 |
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,620 | 5,380 | N/A |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,520 | 5,680 | N/A |
Platinum Trim & 1794 Edition Trim
The Platinum and 1794 Edition models both have a payload capacity between 1,530 lbs and 1,620 lbs, which is similar to the Limited model.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,620 | 5,380 | N/A |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,530 | 5,670 | N/A |
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×2 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,620 | 5,470 | N/A |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,530 | 5,670 | N/A |
TRD Pro Trim
Finally, the TRD Pro model of the 2021 Toyota Tundra has a payload capacity between 1,560 lbs and 1,630 lbs. This is similar to the SR5 model but with some slight variations depending on the specific configuration of the truck.
| Drive | Engine | Cab Size | Bed Size | Payload (lbs) | Curb Weight (lbs) | GVWR (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | Double | Standard | 1,630 | 5,470 | 7,100 |
| 4×4 | 5.7 L | CrewMax | Short | 1,560 | 5,640 | 7,200 |
It’s also worth noting that curb weight plays a role in determining a vehicle’s payload capacity.
Curb weight refers to the total weight of the vehicle without any passengers or cargo.
The higher the curb weight, the less payload capacity the vehicle will have.
For example, a 4×4 double cab standard bed with a 5.7L engine has a curb weight of 5,470 lbs, while a 4×4 double cab long bed with the same engine has a slightly higher curb weight of 5,600 lbs.
2021 Toyota Tundra 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
If you’ve got a 2021 Toyota Tundra and you’re thinking of towing a travel trailer, you might be wondering if a 5th Wheel/Gooseneck hitch towing is good. The answer is YES.
The 2021 Toyota Tundra has a towing capacity that ranges between 8,800 – 10,200 pounds depending on the options.
To determine the maximum trailer weight, you need to find the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) which is the maximum allowed tow rating of the vehicle weight and the trailer weight combined.
Subtracting the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the truck from the GCWR will give you the maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) that can be safely towed.
The information tag located inside the driver door jamb provides this information.
Overall, the towing capacity of the 2021 Toyota Tundra is dependent on several factors, including the options and the trailer weight.
It is important to determine the maximum GTW and to choose the appropriate 5th Wheel/Gooseneck and base rails for a safe and successful towing setup.
Maximum Tongue Load of Toyota Tundra
If you’re planning on towing a trailer with your Toyota Tundra, it’s important to know the maximum tongue load that your vehicle can handle.
The tongue load is the amount of weight/force that the trailer tongue exerts on the trailer hitch and it’s crucial to stay within the recommended limits to ensure safe and efficient towing.
So, what is the max tongue load of a Tundra? Well, according to Toyota, for all of their engines, a tongue weight of 11% should not be exceeded.
This means that if you have a max towing capacity of 10,200 lbs, your tongue weight should not exceed 1,122 lbs.
It’s also worth noting that you should not tow above 1000 lbs on any 2021 Tundra without a trailer with a braking system.
Additionally, if you plan on towing a trailer weighing over 5,000 lbs, you’ll need to use a weight-distributing hitch.
One method involves using a specialized scale that measures the weight directly from the hitch ball.
What is the 2021 Toyota Tundra Curb Weight and GVWR?
Before we dive into the specifics of the 2021 Toyota Tundra’s GVWR, let’s first define what it means.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight that a vehicle is designed to carry including passengers, cargo, and fuel.
It includes the weight of the vehicle itself plus anything else that is loaded onto it.
Exceeding the GVWR can be dangerous as it puts extra strain on the vehicle’s suspension, brakes, and other components.
Useful Resources
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a truck with impressive towing and payload capabilities, the 2021 Toyota Tundra is an excellent choice.
With a maximum Towing Capacity between 8,800 – 10,200 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,730 pounds, depending on the configuration, the 2021 Toyota Tundra truck is built to handle even the toughest jobs.
Plus, with its rugged design, spacious and comfortable interior, and advanced safety features, the 2021 Toyota Tundra is a well-rounded choice that’s sure to impress.
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