Towing Capacity

I'm also thinking that those of us who have skipped the "max-output" full-sized truck V-8s (capable of towing 10K) need something with more cross-purpose: not too long a wheelbase, nor anything that would consume a lot of fuel when not towing.

Still, we went with a Tundra V-8. But, if we had picked the highly-chosen (5.7) V-8 to power it, we could have reached that Holy Grail tow rating of 10,000 lbs. Instead, I sought the smaller (4.6) V-8 with tow-package. That stepped us back to 8,500 lbs. towing cap, but kept the original max tongue weight.

The 4.6 comes with its own specific transmission, so when we're unhitched, the 6-speed auto drops into a lower r.p.m. final gear, so without trailer, we can run along a mostly level highway keeping at around 20 m.p.g. (instead of never exceeding 17 unladen with the bigger 5.7 engine). Still remain very happy with this 2nd level V-8 in all conditions. I don't have experience with the other full-sized brands yet.

Now honestly, 20 m.p.g. HWY is really not something to celebrate as far as the newest full-sized trucks go, but I'm good with our comfortable over-capacity on R-Pod, at 8500#. Also, happy to bypass the commonly-preferred Tundra 5.7 V-8 with it's (non-towing) HWY 17 m.p.g. "best." Not a huge difference, 20 vs. 17, but the difference starts to mount on a long trek without the R-Pod behind. (While towing, I think the difference is 10+ vs. 13+ m.p.g.)

Sacrifices with a full-sized truck? For us, that's Tundra's 1) stiffer ride (newer Detroit 3 trucks have improved ride characteristics)

2) poorer (non-towing) fuel economy compared to a SUV or compact truck thats not towing.

3) LONG truck wheelbases: harder for maneuvering around town (back-up cam helps) and though it's a big truck, my wife drives effortlessly on the freeway, ....she just doesn't like parking it in any constrained parking lot around home.

So... when our current truck needs to be replaced (or gets rubbed out in a road event), should we survive (LOL) I might look seriously at the best of the compact truck offerings, shooting for a towing wt. rating of 6500 to 7500#s. Or needs could change, and would look at a strong Sportwagen or SUV with around 55-6500#s capacity. I know that a lot of us have been towing fine with a hardy SUV and sidestepping the drawbacks of living with a full-sized truck.

But for now, we're doing ok.

Brad & Layli

"Wonderpod" (179HRE)

"BG" (Tundra CM 4.6)

Western NC