What Is the Towing Capacity of the Suzuki Carry Truck?

The Suzuki Carry Truck has become a favorite among small business owners, off-road adventurers, farmers, and vehicle enthusiasts alike. Its compact size, dependable performance, and low operating cost make it a top choice in the kei truck category. One of the most frequently asked questions about this versatile mini truck is: what is the towing capacity of the Suzuki Carry Truck? Whether you’re hauling equipment, transporting materials, or simply curious about its strength, this guide from Oiwa Garage Suzuki Carry will break it all down.

Let’s dive deep into the towing specs, real-world performance, and considerations that impact the Carry’s towing abilities. From historical data to modifications and comparisons with competitors, this comprehensive guide will leave you confident in the Suzuki Carry’s towing capabilities.

A Quick Introduction to the Suzuki Carry

Before we get into towing numbers, let’s understand what the Suzuki Carry is and why it stands out.

The Suzuki Carry is a compact utility truck—commonly referred to as a kei truck in Japan—designed to meet strict regulations on size and engine capacity. Despite its small stature, it boasts impressive utility. Since its debut in 1961, the Carry has gone through numerous generations, with constant updates to power, comfort, and design.

Its lightweight frame, efficient engine, and maneuverability make it popular in tight urban environments, rural farmland, and even in off-road and industrial applications.

Towing Capacity Overview by Model Year

The towing capacity of the Suzuki Carry varies slightly depending on the generation and model configuration. Here’s a general breakdown:

🛻 1990s Models (DA51, DD51)

• Engine: 657cc F6A inline-3
• Towing Capacity: Approx. 880 to 1,100 lbs (400 to 500 kg)

🛻 Early 2000s Models (DA62, DA63)

• Engine: 658cc K6A DOHC
• Towing Capacity: Approx. 1,100 to 1,320 lbs (500 to 600 kg)

🛻 2010s Models (DA16T)

• Engine: 658cc R06A DOHC
• Towing Capacity: 1,320 to 1,540 lbs (600 to 700 kg)

These numbers represent general manufacturer guidelines and assume the truck is in good condition, operating on level ground, and equipped with proper towing accessories.

Note: Towing capacities can also vary based on local regulations and whether the Carry has been modified or retrofitted for enhanced utility.

Payload vs. Towing: Know the Difference

People often confuse payload with towing capacity, but they are not the same.

• Payload capacity refers to the maximum weight the truck can carry in its bed.
• Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight the truck can pull behind it (such as a trailer or another vehicle).

The Suzuki Carry is known for handling around 770 to 880 lbs (350 to 400 kg) in its bed, but with a well-designed tow hitch and trailer brakes, it can tow significantly more—especially when trailering lightweight cargo like ATVs, lawn equipment, or small utility trailers.

Real-World Towing Scenarios with the Suzuki Carry

Let’s look at a few examples of what you can tow with a Suzuki Carry:

1. Utility Trailers

• Average Weight: 400–600 lbs (empty)
• Cargo: Tools, wood, lawn equipment
• Verdict: ✅ Easy tow with margin to spare

2. Motorcycles or ATVs

• Combined Weight: 700–1,200 lbs
• Verdict: ⚠️ Possible with light ATVs and trailer brakes

3. Small Boats

• Jon boats or inflatable fishing boats with trailers weigh under 1,200 lbs
• Verdict: ✅ Manageable if you balance the load properly

4. Farm Equipment (small implements)

• Items like fertilizer spreaders, seeders, or chicken coops
• Verdict: ✅ Ideal use case for farmers

With the right conditions and a reliable hitch system, the Suzuki Carry can perform surprisingly well in day-to-day hauling duties.

Factors That Affect Towing Capacity

1. Engine and Transmission

All Carry trucks use small displacement engines, typically 660cc. Manual transmissions are most common, and they provide better torque control under towing stress than automatics.

2. Braking System

The braking power of a kei truck like the Suzuki Carry is modest. Using a trailer with its own brakes is crucial for safety when towing loads over 1,000 lbs.

3. Suspension and Axles

Overloading the truck stresses the suspension and axles. Upgraded leaf springs or reinforced shocks can slightly improve towing performance.

4. Weight Distribution

A balanced load—centered over the trailer’s axles—helps prevent fishtailing and reduces stress on the hitch and drivetrain.

5. Aftermarket Modifications

Some owners install upgraded hitches, radiator cooling fans, or even turbochargers to enhance towing capability. Just be sure these mods are professionally installed and maintain structural integrity.

Towing with a 4WD vs 2WD Suzuki Carry

The Suzuki Carry is available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations.

• 4WD models are ideal for off-road and slippery conditions.
• They offer more traction, making towing safer in mud, snow, or gravel.
• However, they do not increase the towing capacity—just the towing stability.

If you plan to tow on uneven terrain, the 4WD Carry is your best bet.

How the Suzuki Carry Compares to Other Kei Trucks

Here’s how the Suzuki Carry stacks up against competitors when it comes to towing:

The Oiwa Garage Suzuki Carry consistently performs at the top of its class, especially when maintained and outfitted with the right towing gear.

Choosing the Right Hitch for Your Suzuki Carry

The Suzuki Carry does not come factory-equipped with a trailer hitch. You’ll need to install an aftermarket hitch suited to the frame of your truck. There are two main types:

1. Frame-Mounted Hitch

• Bolts directly to the truck’s chassis
• Most secure option for towing up to 1,500 lbs
• Can be custom-made or sourced from kei truck specialty shops

2. Bumper-Mounted Hitch

• Easier to install, but not as strong
• Best for lighter-duty towing (under 1,000 lbs)

The team at Oiwa Garage Suzuki Carry recommends going with a frame-mounted hitch for maximum safety and performance.

Tips for Safe Towing with the Suzuki Carry

Towing isn’t just about raw power—it’s about control and safety. Here are best practices:

• Check your tire pressure before loading
• Use trailer lights and verify they work
• Install trailer brakes for loads over 1,000 lbs
• Use towing mirrors if your view is obstructed
• Distribute the load evenly
• Avoid highway speeds when towing, especially with wind-sensitive trailers
• Perform regular maintenance on brakes, fluids, and cooling system

Can You Tow Long Distances with a Suzuki Carry?

Yes, but with caution. The Carry can handle long distances if:

• The load is light to moderate
• You take frequent breaks to prevent overheating
• You avoid steep mountain passes and high-speed highways
• The engine is properly maintained

Upgrading the radiator, transmission cooling, and adding an external oil cooler may improve reliability over longer hauls.

Off-Road Towing Potential

One of the reasons the Oiwa Garage Suzuki Carry is so beloved is its surprising off-road capability. With its short wheelbase, 4WD drivetrain, and high clearance, it can tow:

• Firewood trailers on forest trails
• Farm carts across muddy fields
• Lightweight cargo in snow-covered rural areas

Just keep the total towed weight within 1,300–1,400 lbs, and make sure you have solid recovery equipment like a tow rope and winch in case you get stuck.

Towing Laws and Registration

If you’re planning to use your Carry for towing in the U.S., Canada, or Europe, you may need to:

• Install DOT-approved lights and reflectors
• Register your trailer separately
• Follow state-specific towing limits
• Use safety chains and approved hitch equipment

Oiwa Garage Suzuki Carry recommends checking with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or vehicle inspector before modifying or using the truck for towing.

Can You Increase the Suzuki Carry’s Towing Capacity?

To a limited degree, yes. The safest way to boost towing performance includes:

• Upgrading the hitch
• Installing trailer brakes
• Reinforcing the suspension
• Using lightweight trailers
• Adding a transmission cooler or radiator fan

However, always remember the Suzuki Carry is a light-duty truck, and exceeding its limits can cause mechanical damage or safety issues.

Final Thoughts: Is the Suzuki Carry Good for Towing?

Absolutely! While it won’t replace a full-sized pickup truck for hauling a camper or heavy trailer, the Suzuki Carry punches well above its weight class. Whether you’re towing garden supplies, farm tools, or small trailers for work, the Oiwa Garage Suzuki Carry offers reliability, versatility, and efficiency in a compact, easy-to-maneuver package.

If you maintain your Carry well and tow responsibly, it can handle most small-load towing tasks with ease. And thanks to the support and resources from Oiwa Garage, you can find the right accessories, tips, and modifications to make your towing experience smooth and safe.