How Much Can A Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity? Essential Guide
How much can a Toyota Highlander tow? The 2024 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is thanks to its 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
It’s great for hauling trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles. Knowing the Highlander’s towing capacity is key for your adventures.
Whether it’s a weekend trip or a vacation, this guide will help. It covers towing capabilities and features of the Highlander, ensuring you make the right choice.
Introduced in 2001, the Highlander has grown to meet consumer needs. It now offers stronger towing while keeping performance in check.
This guide will show how engine options and configurations affect towing capacity. You’ll also see important specs and comparisons across model years, helping you pick the best Highlander for your needs.
Let’s explore the Highlander’s towing capacity, performance, tow packages, and safe towing tips. With this knowledge, you’ll be ready for your next adventure.
Introduction to Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity
The Toyota Highlander is a top pick for those who need an SUV for towing. It has impressive towing capabilities.
The towing capacity changes with each model year, showing off new tech and performance. Gas-powered Highlanders can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
This makes it great for hauling camping trailers, boats, or other fun gear. Hybrid models can tow up to 3,500 pounds, perfect for lighter loads.
From 2018 to 2024, the Highlander’s towing capacity stays the same. This means buyers get consistent performance and durability.
Knowing these specs is key when deciding if the Highlander fits your towing needs. The Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbo engine packs 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
This power helps it tow well. The optional Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system also boosts traction in tough conditions.
Features like Trailer-Sway Control and Hill Start Assist Control make towing safer and easier. These add to the Highlander’s strong towing reputation.
What’s The Factors Affecting Towing Capacity?
Many things affect how much a Toyota Highlander can tow. Knowing about engine options, weight ratings, and payload capacity helps you make smart choices.
This part explains these key factors that affect the Highlander’s towing power.
Engine Options and Power
The engine in a Toyota Highlander is key to its towing power. For example, the 2024 and 2023 Highlanders have a 2.4L L4 engine. This engine can tow up to 5000 lbs.
The 2022 to 2020 Highlanders have a 3.5L V6 engine. This engine also tows up to 5000 lbs. The 2019 Highlander offers two engine choices.
The 2.7L L4 engine can tow 1500 lbs, while the 3.5L V6 engine can tow 5000 lbs. This variety in engines affects the Highlander’s towing ability.
Weight Ratings and Payload Capacity
To know how much a Toyota Highlander can tow, you need to understand weight ratings and payload capacity.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) are important. GVWR is the max weight of the vehicle, including passengers and cargo.
GCWR is the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer. It’s important to stay within these limits to avoid risks.
Towing more than the capacity can damage the vehicle. Always check the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s specs for safe towing.
How Much Can A Toyota Highlander Tow?
Knowing the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander is key for buyers and owners. From 2001 to 2024, the Highlander has offered strong towing.
This section looks at the maximum towing capacities by model year and the engines that make it possible.
Towing Capacity Overview by Model Year
The Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity has stayed high, reaching up to 5,000 pounds on most models from 2018 to 2024.
Here’s a quick look at the towing capacities over the years:
| Model Year | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2001-2017 | 3,500 – 5,000 pounds |
| 2018-2024 | 5,000 pounds |
| 2025 | 5,000 pounds (Gas), 3,500 pounds (Hybrid) |
Comparison of Engine Variants
Engine types greatly affect the Highlander’s towing abilities. In 2025, the gas Highlander has a 2.4-liter turbo engine.
It makes 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, perfect for towing. The hybrid model has a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain. It has a combined output of 243 horsepower.
Its towing capacity is 3,500 pounds, but it’s great for fuel economy, reaching up to 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway.
The Highlander also has advanced towing features. The Trailer-Sway Control system keeps the vehicle stable while towing.
The Multi-Terrain Select feature helps adapt to different driving conditions, important when towing heavy loads.
Toyota Highlander Towing Specs by Year
This section gives a detailed look at the Toyota Highlander’s towing specs by year. It helps you see how towing has changed from 2001 to 2024.
Each year, the engine, towing capacity, and design improvements have made the Highlander better.
2001 to 2010 Model Years
| Model Year | Engine Type | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Tow Package Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 3.0L V6 | 3500 | 3000 |
| 2002 | 3.0L V6 | 3500 | 3000 |
| 2003 | 3.0L V6 | 3500 | 3000 |
| 2004 | 3.3L V6 | 3500 | 3000 |
| 2005 | 3.3L V6 | 3500 | 2000 |
| 2006 | 3.3L V6 | 3500 | 2000 |
| 2007 | 3.3L V6 | 3500 | 2000 |
| 2008 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2009 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2010 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
2011 to 2024 Model Years
| Model Year | Engine Type | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Tow Package Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2012 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2013 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2014 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2015 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2017 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2018 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 2000 |
| 2019 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | 1500 |
| 2020 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | TBD |
| 2021 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | TBD |
| 2022 | 3.5L V6 | 5000 | TBD |
| 2023 | 2.4L L4 | 5000 | TBD |
| 2024 | 2.4L L4 | 5000 | TBD |
Toyota Highlander Towing Capabilities Explained
The Toyota Highlander’s towing power changes with each model. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds when set up right. This shows its strong design and engineering for towing.
It has a 3.5L V6 engine that gives 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This engine, with an optional eight-speed automatic transmission, boosts its towing power.
Max Towing Capacity For Different Models
The Highlander has been reliable in towing over the years. Here’s a table showing the max towing capacities for different model years:
| Model Year | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 2011-2013 | 5,000 |
| 2014-2019 | 5,000 |
| 2020-2023 | 5,000 |
Variations in Hybrid vs. Conventional Models
Hybrid and conventional Highlanders have different towing abilities. The conventional model with its V6 engine has more towing power.
Hybrid models, on the other hand, have lower towing capacities because they focus on saving fuel. Knowing these differences helps you pick the right Highlander for your towing needs.
No matter the model, the Highlander is designed for reliable performance on and off the road.
Towing Performance and Features in The Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is known for its strong towing performance and useful features. It has improved over the years with better engines, drivetrains, and safety systems. This makes it great for towing safely and efficiently.
Performance Enhancements Over The Years
The 2025 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when ready. It has kept this towing capacity from 2018 to 2024.
This shows the Highlander is a reliable towing vehicle. The gas models have a 2.4-liter turbo engine. It makes 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
This engine boosts towing power and is fuel-efficient, getting up to 25 MPG combined. The Highlander Hybrid can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
It’s a good choice for those who want to save on fuel. The Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system helps by sending up to 50% of power to the rear wheels. This improves traction when towing heavy loads.
Safety Features For Towing
The Toyota Highlander has many safety features for towing. The Trailer-Sway Control system helps keep your trailer stable. It’s important for safe towing, even on rough roads.
The Highlander also has the Multi-Terrain Select system. It has modes for different towing situations.
The Drive Mode Select system lets you choose Sport, Eco, Normal, or Snow modes. This helps you get the best performance for your towing needs.
| Model Year | Max Towing Capacity | Engine Type | Horsepower | Hybrid Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-2024 | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L Turbo | 265 hp | 3,500 lbs |
| 2025 | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L Turbo | 265 hp | 3,500 lbs |
Knowing about the Toyota Highlander’s towing features helps you make better choices. It ensures a safer and more enjoyable towing experience.
Selecting The Right Tow Package For Your Highlander
Choosing the right tow package for your Toyota Highlander is key to its towing power. The right package lets you use the Highlander’s full strength. It makes towing safer and more fun.
What’s Included in The Tow Package?
The Toyota Highlander’s tow package comes with important parts. These parts help a lot with towing. You’ll find:
- Heavy-duty radiators to keep the engine cool while towing.
- Engine oil coolers for better engine performance under load.
- Upgraded brakes for stronger stopping power when towing heavy loads.
- Trailer wiring harnesses for easy trailer connection.
- Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive for better traction.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Towing Equipment
Upgrading your towing gear has many benefits. It’s not just about more towing power. Here are some advantages:
- Increased Towing Confidence: Better stability and brakes mean safer towing.
- Better Heat Management: Cooling systems prevent overheating during long towing trips.
- Improved Payload Handling: Higher weight ratings mean you can carry more safely.
- Durability: Upgraded parts last longer under towing stress.
- Versatile Usage: With the right towing, you can haul anything from small boats to travel trailers.
Getting the right tow package for your Highlander means you’re ready for your next adventure.
| Feature | Standard | Tow Package Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy-Duty Radiators | Standard Radiator | Included |
| Engine Oil Coolers | Basic Cooling | Included |
| Braking System | Standard Brakes | Upgraded Braking |
| Trailer Wiring | Optional | Included |
| AWD Features | Basic AWD | Dynamic Torque-Control AWD |
Real-World Towing Scenarios with The Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is known for its strong towing abilities. It’s great for many tasks. Real experiences from owners show how it handles trailers, RVs, and more.
Towing Trailers and RVs
Many Highlander owners tow trailers and RVs. Its design upgrades make it perfect for this. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
A 2016 Highlander, for example, has a 109-inch wheelbase. This helps it stay stable when towing heavy loads.
- Owners are happy with towing trailers like the TrailManor Elkmont, which weighs about 2,348 lbs.
- The V6 engine helps with towing, allowing users to tow about 2.13 times the base weight.
- When towing, the Highlander gets 9 to 13 MPG, which is typical for SUVs.
Experiences From Toyota Highlander Owners
Highlander owners are very happy with their towing experiences. About 85% are satisfied with its performance. But, some worry about towing in high places or steep grades.
Despite this, many love towing boats and camping trailers. It’s a big reason they chose the Highlander.
| Model Year | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Owner Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 Highlander | 5,000 | 85 |
| 2016 Highlander | 5,000 | 85 |
| 2008 Highlander | 5,000 | 85 |
Toyota has made big improvements in towing capacity over the years. The 2008 redesign was a big step forward. These changes are great for families and outdoor lovers who need a reliable towing vehicle.
Tips For Safe Towing with The Toyota Highlander
For a safe towing experience with your Toyota Highlander, pay close attention to loading and towing practices.
Proper weight distribution boosts the vehicle’s towing power and stability. Here are some tips to tow confidently and securely.
Proper Loading and Weight Distribution
When towing, it’s key to distribute the trailer’s weight evenly. This prevents swaying and keeps control. Follow these tips:
- Center heavy items over the axle for balance.
- Target a tongue weight of 10-15% of the trailer’s total weight for stability.
- Secure all items inside the trailer to prevent shifting during transit.
Essential Towing Practices
Smart towing practices can greatly improve your towing safety and effectiveness. Here are important practices to remember:
- Always check your Toyota Highlander before towing, focusing on brakes, lights, and tires.
- Use the hill start assist feature to prevent rollback on inclines.
- Engage the Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD for better traction when needed.
- Stay within your vehicle’s towing capacity—5,000 lbs for gas models and 3,500 lbs for hybrid models.
- Check tire pressure using the tire pressure monitor system before you leave.
- Use the right driving modes like Snow Mode for better traction in bad weather.
- Consider the Trailer-Sway Control system to help manage a swaying trailer.
By following these tips, you’ll get the most out of your Toyota Highlander’s towing capabilities. This ensures a safer and more enjoyable trip.
Common Myths and Misconceptions about Toyota Highlander Towing
Towing often leads to myths that can mislead people. It’s important to know the truth about the Toyota Highlander’s towing power. This knowledge helps you understand what your Highlander can really do.
Addressing Misunderstandings about Capacity
Many think all Highlanders can tow the same amount. But, the 2024 Toyota Highlander can tow 5,000 pounds for the standard model. The Hybrid version can tow 3,500 pounds.
This is different from some competitors, like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which can tow up to 7,200 pounds.
Not knowing these differences can lead to wrong expectations. It’s key to understand what your Highlander can handle.
Clarifying Towing Limits and Legalities
It’s also important to know the legal side of towing. Towing more than the recommended weight can hurt your Highlander’s performance. This is true for any vehicle.
For the Toyota Highlander, towing too much can make it unstable. It’s important to distribute the weight correctly. Ignoring these rules can be dangerous and shorten your Highlander’s life.
Conclusion
Knowing the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity is key for smart towing decisions. Capacities vary from 3,500 pounds for hybrids to 5,000 pounds for gas models.
It’s important to know your model year and engine type. Having the right tow package, like those in XLE and higher trims, boosts towing safety and efficiency.
This setup is vital for a smooth towing experience. Real-world experiences show the need for proper setup. Towing near the max can hurt your vehicle and lower fuel efficiency.
You must consider weight distribution and follow legal towing rules, like using electric brakes for heavy trailers. Being informed about the Highlander’s towing capacity helps you pick the right vehicle.
With this knowledge, you can tackle towing tasks confidently. This ensures safe and enjoyable journeys for all your adventures.
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity varies by model year and engine. It usually ranges from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds. This depends on the specific setup.
How do engine options affect the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity?
Engine options in the Toyota Highlander affect its towing capacity. The more powerful the engine, the higher the towing limit.
What are the towing specs for the 2011-2024 Toyota Highlander?
For 2011 to 2024, the Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is with the right tow package and engine.
Are there differences in towing capabilities between hybrid and conventional models of the Highlander?
Yes, hybrid models of the Toyota Highlander tow less than conventional models. Always check the towing specs for each model year.
What components are included in the Toyota Highlander tow package?
The tow package for the Toyota Highlander includes heavy-duty radiators and engine oil coolers. It also has upgraded braking systems and a hitch receiver. These are designed to improve towing performance.
What safety features assist with towing in the Highlander?
Recent Highlanders have safety features like trailer sway control and enhanced braking systems. They also have rearview cameras for safe towing.
What common myths should I be aware of when considering towing with the Highlander?
Some myths include thinking the Highlander can tow more than it can or not understanding weight distribution. It’s important to know the actual towing limits and follow payload ratings for safe towing.
