A pickup’s max towing capacity is nothing short of important. Why? Because if you’re buying a new pickup truck, odds are you want one that’s capable of towing a considerable amount of weight. For many, that means shopping for a pickup like the Toyota Tacoma. But is the Toyota Tacoma the strongest pickup you could choose for satisfying your towing needs? Not necessarily. In fact, this 2021 Jeep Gladiator makes for a stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma.

How much can the Toyota Tacoma tow?

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers two engines. Opt for a Tacoma outfitted with its standard 2.7-liter engine under the hood, and this year’s model can tow up to 6,400-pounds. But with a 3.5-liter V6 engine under the hood? The 2021 Toyota Tacoma will have you towing a maximum of 6,800-pounds. You can also count on this year’s model to carry a payload of up to 1,440-pounds. All in all, that’s not too shabby for a compact pickup.

But, here’s the thing. While a 6,800-pound maximum towing capacity may sound impressive, there are stronger alternatives to the Toyota Tacoma out there. Take, for example, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator.

This Gladiator is a stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma

Much like the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator comes with your pick of engine under the hood. This year’s engine options include a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine. 

With its 3.6-liter V6 under the hood, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is rated to tow a maximum of 7,650-pounds when properly equipped. The gas-powered Gladiator is also able to manage a 1,700-pound payload. When equipped with this V6 engine, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator makes for a much stronger alternative to the 2021 Toyota Tacoma.

How much can the diesel Jeep Gladiator tow?

Say you find yourself drawn to the Jeep Gladiator’s available diesel engine instead. If that’s the case, it’s important to note that while the gas-powered Gladiator is a stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma, the diesel-powered Jeep Gladiator isn’t. 

In fact, with its 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine under the hood, the Gladiator is only rated to tow a maximum of 6,500-pounds. While that’s still a fair amount of weight, it does mean that the diesel Gladiator can tow slightly less than the Toyota Tacoma. So if it’s a stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma that you’re after? You’re going to want to stick with a Gladiator with a 3.6-liter V6 under the hood.

How much you can expect to pay for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator

While the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is a stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma, it’s also more expensive. Opt for a base model Gladiator, and you’ll be spending roughly $33,715. The Jeep Gladiator only gets more expensive from there too. Treat yourself to the range-topping High Altitude model, and this year’s Gladiator will run you approximately $51,915.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma, on the other hand, boasts a base price of $26,400. At it’s most expensive, a Tacoma will cost you about $44,325. For both a cheaper and stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma, check out the 2021 Ford Ranger, which can tow up to 7,500-pounds.

How to choose the right truck for your towing needs

Here’s the thing, while the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is a stronger alternative to the Toyota Tacoma, at least when equipped with its V6 engine, that doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you. To choose the right truck for your towing needs, we recommend determining what you plan on towing and going from there. Of course, don’t forget to get behind the wheel for a few test drives too.