Exploring Camper Options: Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity

what camper can a 4runner tow

The Toyota 4Runner is a popular midsize SUV with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This makes it a great option for towing small to midsize campers and trailers. When choosing a camper, it is important to consider the weight distribution, hitch type, and brake condition in addition to the camper's weight. To ensure safe and efficient towing, it is recommended to adhere to the 80% rule, which means choosing a camper that weighs no more than 4,000 pounds, including its full load. This helps maintain better control of the vehicle and reduces strain.

There are several great camper options compatible with the Toyota 4Runner. The Airstream Bambi 16RB, with its smart use of space and classic Airstream quality, is a perfect fit for the 4Runner. The Scamp 16', offered by the trusted brand Scamp, boasts a chic, aerodynamic shape and unique interior decor. The Rockwood 1214HW, an A-frame trailer that weighs in at under 3,000 pounds, is also a great option for those looking for a fuel-efficient trailer. The Keystone Sportsmen Classic 180RBT offers tons of sleeping space with three full-size tent beds, while the Dutchmen Kodiak Ultra-Lite 201QB provides plenty of space at a lightweight. The Oliver Legacy Elite impresses with its sleek, futuristic look and smart use of space, packing in a bed, convertible dinette, lounging area, and full kitchen. The Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser 23RSS is a compact trailer that provides all the amenities of a larger trailer, including a spacious dinette, sofa bed, full kitchen, and separate tub/shower. The Heartland Mallard P18BHS, with its double bunk, full bath, spacious kitchen, and dinette, is another excellent choice. For those seeking a rugged trailer for off-road adventures, the Black Series HQ12 is a perfect match. This trailer features a pop-up roof, exterior kitchen and shower, queen bed, bunk bed, convertible dinette lounge area, and a wet bath inside. Last but not least, the Bean Trailers Black Bean is a super compact, off-road-ready teardrop trailer with durable construction and plenty of ground clearance.

Characteristics Values
Camper trailer type Teardrop trailers, Pop-up campers, Small to midsize campers and travel trailers
Towing capacity 4,700-5,000 lbs
Engine 4.0-liter V6
Horsepower 270
Torque 278 lb-ft
Tongue weight 500 lbs
Tow features Standard hitch receiver, Wiring harness, 4-pin and 7-pin connectors

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The Toyota 4Runner's towing capacity

The Toyota 4Runner is a powerful SUV with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and need to tow small boats, canoes, kayaks, bikes, ATVs, or small teardrop travel trailers.

The 4Runner's impressive performance is not limited to its towing capacity. It also boasts a 4.0-litre V-6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, ensuring a smooth and responsive drive. Additionally, its multi-terrain traversing technology, including the available CRAWL Control System and electronic locking rear differential, enhances its off-road capabilities.

When it comes to safety, the 4Runner doesn't disappoint. Its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System allows for the decoupling of sway bars during extreme off-roading conditions, providing a more stable and controlled ride.

While the 4Runner's towing capacity has remained consistent over the last decade, it's important to consider factors such as passenger weight, cargo, and road or weather conditions, which can impact its performance.

In conclusion, the Toyota 4Runner is a versatile and reliable SUV with a generous towing capacity, making it a great choice for those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort and safety.

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Camper trailer options for the 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a versatile and reliable SUV with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it a great option for towing small to midsize campers and trailers. Here are some camper trailer options that can be considered for the 4Runner:

Airstream Bambi 16RB

The Airstream Bambi 16RB is a compact and efficient trailer, featuring a wet bath, convertible dinette, kitchenette, and a comfortable sleeping area. It offers a smart use of space and the classic Airstream quality, but it is one of the more expensive options. The tongue weight of the Airstream Bambi 16RB is 350 lbs, well within the towing capacity of the 4Runner.

Scamp 16'

The Scamp 16' is a chic and aerodynamic trailer from a trusted brand, Scamp. It offers various layouts, including a kitchen, dinette, and sleeping areas. A deluxe model is also available with upgraded features. The tongue weight of the Scamp 16' is 353 lbs, making it a suitable option for the 4Runner.

Rockwood 1214HW

The Rockwood 1214HW is an A-frame trailer that weighs less than 3,000 lbs, making it easy to tow. It features a collapsible design, a queen-size bed, a dinette, a small kitchen, and a bathroom. The tongue weight is 353 lbs, well within the limits of the 4Runner's towing capacity.

Keystone Sportsmen Classic 180RBT

The Keystone Sportsmen Classic 180RBT offers ample sleeping space with three full-size tent beds and can accommodate up to six people. It also includes a fully equipped kitchen, a full bath, a dinette, and a bench seat. The tongue weight is 420 lbs, so it's important to consider the overall weight when loaded with gear and supplies.

Dutchmen Kodiak Ultra-Lite 201QB

The Dutchmen Kodiak Ultra-Lite 201QB provides a spacious interior with a queen bed, a convertible dinette, a well-equipped kitchen, and a full bath. It offers plenty of space while still being lightweight, with a tongue weight of 462 lbs.

Oliver Legacy Elite

The Oliver Legacy Elite is a sleek and futuristic-looking trailer with a bed, convertible dinette, lounging area, a full kitchen, and a full bathroom. It features a double-hulled fiberglass shell for four-season camping and comes with a variety of upgrades, such as solar power and lithium battery packages. The tongue weight is 490 lbs, so it's important to consider the overall weight when packed for a trip.

When choosing a camper trailer for the 4Runner, it is crucial to consider not only the weight but also weight distribution, hitch type, and brake condition. Additionally, staying within the 80% rule (around 4,000 pounds) of the maximum towing capacity is recommended for better control and reduced strain on the vehicle.

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Towing features of the 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged and reliable SUV with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Here are some of the key towing features of the 4Runner:

  • Integrated Towing Receiver Hitch: The 4Runner comes standard with an integrated towing receiver hitch, making it easy to attach a trailer or other towed vehicle.
  • Wiring Harness: The vehicle also includes a wiring harness with four- and seven-pin connectors, ensuring a secure electrical connection between the 4Runner and the trailer.
  • Powerful Engine: The 4Runner is equipped with a 4.0-liter V-6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for towing.
  • CRAWL Control System: Available on select trims, the CRAWL Control System helps you navigate challenging terrain by automatically adjusting the vehicle's speed and braking.
  • Electronic Locking Rear Differential: This feature ensures that power is evenly distributed to the rear wheels, providing enhanced traction and stability when towing.
  • Multi-Terrain Select: This feature allows you to adjust the vehicle's traction to match the terrain, making it easier to tow on different surfaces.
  • Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS): The KDSS decouples the sway bars when off-roading, providing greater articulation and improving the vehicle's ability to maintain traction on uneven surfaces.
  • Strong Braking System: The 4Runner has sturdy brakes that can handle the additional weight of a trailer, ensuring safe and controlled stopping power.
  • Weight Distribution: The 4Runner's relatively short wheelbase makes weight distribution crucial for stable towing. A weight distribution hitch helps distribute the tongue weight evenly, reducing the likelihood of trailer sway or fishtailing.
  • Trailer Brake Controller: For trailers with electronic brakes, a brake controller synchronises the trailer's brakes with the 4Runner's, reducing the braking load on the SUV.
  • Heavy-Duty Coils or Coil Airbags: Upgrading the rear coils or adding coil airbags can enhance the vehicle's ability to handle the extra weight of a trailer, improving ride quality and stability.

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Other specifications of the 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a versatile and reliable SUV with a strong following. Its towing capacity of 5,000 pounds (and tongue weight capacity of 500 pounds) makes it a good option for towing small to midsize campers and trailers. Its 4.0-liter V6 engine provides 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, giving it ample power for towing.

The 4Runner has a standard hitch receiver and a wiring harness with 4-pin and 7-pin connectors, so you don't need to purchase an additional towing package. Its five-speed automatic transmission and choice of rear-wheel, four-wheel, or all-wheel drive provide versatility for different terrain and conditions.

The 4Runner's MSRP starts at $36,120, and it offers a combined mpg rating of up to 16/city and 19/highway. Its tank capacity is 23 gallons, and it has a curb weight of 4,400 to 4,805 lbs. Its dimensions are 190-191" L x 76" W x 72" H, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.

When it comes to towing, it's important to consider factors such as Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW), and Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC). Always stay within the safe towing limits and play it safe by keeping your load below the maximum limit—many RVers prefer to stay 20% below it.

In addition to towing campers, the 4Runner is also capable of hauling other outdoor gear such as ATVs or boats, as long as they are within the 5,000-pound towing limit. Its off-road capabilities make it a great choice for outdoor adventures.

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Safety considerations when towing with a 4Runner

  • Know your Toyota 4Runner's tow rating to ensure safe and efficient towing. Understand the practical factors such as payload capacity, tongue weight, and trailer weight when determining your safe towing capacity.
  • Ensure proper trailer braking for safe towing with your Toyota 4Runner.
  • Distribute the weight evenly in the trailer and use sway control devices to achieve stability and load balance.
  • Shift out of Overdrive when towing to reduce strain on the engine.
  • Consider using a weight-distributing hitch to enhance your towing experience.
  • Be cautious when maneuvering in tight spaces while towing with your Toyota 4Runner.
  • Understand the components of your hitch and their respective ratings for secure towing.
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Frequently asked questions

The Toyota 4Runner has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, so it can tow small to midsize campers and trailers. Teardrop trailers and pop-up campers are a perfect match for the 4Runner.

Here are some examples of campers that can be towed by a 4Runner:

- Airstream Bambi 16RB

- Scamp 16'

- Rockwood 1214HW

- Keystone Sportsmen Classic 180RBT

- Dutchmen Kodiak Ultra-Lite 201QB

- Oliver Legacy Elite

- Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser 23RSS

- Heartland Mallard P18BHS

- Black Series HQ12

- Bean Trailers Black Bean

It is important to not exceed the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. For safety and control, it is recommended to limit the load to 80% of the maximum capacity, which is around 4,000 lbs for most 4Runners. Other factors to consider are tongue weight, weight distribution, hitch type, and brake condition.

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