Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity: Understanding the Limits
- webseomember34
- Apr 16
- 4 min read
The Toyota Highlander has long been a favorite among midsize SUV enthusiasts for its comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and family-friendly design. But beyond the daily commute and weekend errands, many prospective buyers wonder how much the Highlander can actually haul. Whether you’re towing a camper, a boat, or a utility trailer, understanding the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander is essential for safety and performance.
In this guide, we’ll explore the towing capacity of various Toyota Highlander models, what factors affect it, and how to ensure you’re towing within safe limits.
1. Why Towing Capacity Matters
Towing capacity refers to the maximum amount of weight a vehicle can safely pull. This limit is determined by several factors including the engine size, transmission, frame design, suspension, and braking system. Exceeding the towing limit can lead to poor handling, overheating, braking failure, or even structural damage to your vehicle.
The Toyota Highlander is not a heavy-duty truck, but it is designed with moderate towing capabilities suitable for most everyday needs. Knowing your Highlander’s limits can help you tow safely and get the most out of your vehicle.
2. Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity by Model Year and Trim
The towing capacity of the Highlander varies depending on the model year, engine type, and trim level. Below is a breakdown of the towing capabilities for recent models:
2023–2025 Toyota Highlander (Gas Models)
Base towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
Maximum towing capacity (with tow package): 5,000 pounds
Available engines: 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged
Tow package availability: Standard or optional depending on trim (often included in XLE, Limited, Platinum)
2023–2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds (all trims)
Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid with electric motor
Tow package: Typically not available for hybrid trims
Older Highlander Models (2017–2022)
3.5L V6 engine (gas models):
Without tow package: 2,000 pounds
With tow package: 5,000 pounds
2.7L 4-cylinder engine:
Max towing: 1,500 pounds
Hybrid models (2.5L or 3.5L):
Max towing: 3,500 pounds
It’s important to verify the specific capabilities of your Highlander based on VIN, trim, and year—especially if purchasing a used model.
3. What Comes in the Highlander Tow Package?
To safely achieve the Highlander’s maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, you need the available towing package, which includes:
Heavy-duty radiator
Engine oil cooler
Transmission fluid cooler
Upgraded alternator
Trailer hitch receiver
Wiring harness (4-pin or 7-pin)
Sway control technology
Enhanced engine cooling system
If your Highlander does not include these features, you may not be able to safely tow heavier loads, even if the engine is powerful.
4. Types of Loads the Highlander Can Tow
With a towing capacity between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds, the Highlander is best suited for light to medium towing tasks. Here are a few examples:
Under 3,500 Pounds
3,500–5,000 Pounds (with Tow Package)
Medium-sized boats (up to 20 ft)
Compact travel trailers
Motorcycles or ATVs (with trailer)
Small horse trailers
Lightweight construction equipment (like mini skid steers)
Always check the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and ensure it includes the weight of the trailer and the cargo inside.
5. Factors That Affect Towing Capacity
1. Engine Type
Turbocharged 4-cylinder engines can provide impressive torque for towing, often rivaling older V6 options.
Hybrids offer great fuel economy but have reduced towing capacity due to battery weight and drivetrain limitations.
2. Drivetrain
AWD models often have slightly better towing stability, though they don’t necessarily increase capacity.
3. Payload Capacity
The payload includes passengers and cargo inside the vehicle. Exceeding this weight can reduce towing effectiveness and vehicle handling.
4. Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
This is the total allowable weight of your Highlander, trailer, cargo, and passengers combined. Check your owner's manual or driver-side door sticker for specific limits.
6. Towing Tips for Highlander Owners
1. Distribute Weight Properly
Ensure the load is balanced, with about 60% of the weight in the front half of the trailer and about 10–15% of the trailer's total weight on the tongue (the part that connects to the hitch).
2. Use a Brake Controller (for trailers over 2,000 lbs)
Most states require trailer brakes for loads over 3,000 pounds. A brake controller ensures the trailer slows at the same rate as your vehicle, preventing jackknifing.
3. Monitor Tire Pressure
Proper tire inflation is critical when towing. Check both your Highlander and trailer tires before departure.
4. Drive at Moderate Speeds
Avoid excessive speeds and allow extra room for stopping and turning.
5. Know Your Local Laws
Many states have laws about trailer weight, brake requirements, and speed limits. Stay compliant to avoid fines and ensure safety.
7. Towing and Warranty Considerations
Improper towing can void certain parts of your warranty. Toyota recommends only towing within listed capacity and using the proper equipment. Installing aftermarket hitches or tow packages not approved by Toyota may result in drivetrain damage or reduced warranty protection.
8. Highlander Towing vs. Other SUVs
While the Highlander offers a respectable towing capacity for a midsize SUV, it's worth comparing it to competitors:
Vehicle | Max Towing Capacity |
Toyota Highlander | 5,000 lbs (with tow package) |
Ford Explorer | 5,600 lbs |
Honda Pilot | 5,000 lbs |
Subaru Ascent | 5,000 lbs |
Chevrolet Traverse | 5,000 lbs |
Hyundai Palisade | 5,000 lbs |
So, while it’s not the highest in its class, the Highlander’s capabilities are competitive and sufficient for most non-commercial needs.
9. Is the Toyota Highlander Good for Towing?
Absolutely—if you plan to tow light to moderate loads and equip the vehicle properly. The Highlander is a comfortable, reliable SUV with enough muscle to handle most weekend adventures. The newer turbocharged engines also provide improved torque for better towing performance, and the hybrid options allow for decent towing while maximizing fuel efficiency.
However, if you regularly tow trailers above 5,000 pounds or need to handle large boats or RVs, a full-size SUV or truck may be a better option.
Conclusion
Understanding the towing capacity of your Toyota Highlander is essential for safe and effective hauling. Whether you own a newer turbocharged model or a reliable V6 from earlier years, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines, confirm your equipment is up to the task, and stay within your towing limits.
With proper planning, equipment, and safety practices, the Highlander can be a trustworthy partner for your towing needs—whether it’s for a weekend trip to the lake or hauling your gear to a remote job
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