Interested in a new SUV that can handle towing? Let’s talk about the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity—keeping it simple and straightforward.
This mid-size SUV, cruising since 2001, is known for its roomy interior and solid reliability. Now, onto towing. The 2024 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly set up. [1] That’s a substantial capacity for hauling your trailer or boat.
But, a word of caution: always stick to your vehicle’s towing limit. Going beyond might lead to damage and safety risks. So, before hitting the road, get to know “How Much Can a Toyota Highlander Tow.” It’s not just a number; it’s your safety assurance.
What is the Toyota Highlander?
Say hello to the Toyota Highlander—an SUV that’s all about comfort, fitting eight people with ease. It looks cool for families and adventure lovers.
In its group, the Highlander rocks with all-wheel drive for a smooth ride and safety features like adaptive cruise control. It might not be the fastest, but it can tow well, finding a sweet spot between size and gas mileage.
Picking the Highlander means picking something practical and reliable. It’s not just about looks; it’s about making sure your crew is comfy, you’re driving smooth, and everyone’s safe.
For those who like a mix of style and practicality, the Highlander is a winner. Good at towing and loaded with family-friendly stuff, it’s a clever choice. When thinking SUV, think Toyota Highlander—it’s got more to offer than you’d think.
How Much Can a Toyota Highlander Tow?
Towing capacity is a big deal when you want to haul stuff safely with your Toyota Highlander. Let’s check out how much this SUV can handle over the years.
Toyota Highlander 1st Generation (2001 – 2007)
Back in the day, the Highlander had different engines affecting towing. The 4-cylinder one could tow 1,500 lbs without a towing package, but with it, it kicked up to 3,000 lbs. The V6 engines started at 2,000 lbs without a package, but with it, they could reach 3,500 lbs.
The hybrid version from 2006 and 2007 matched the regular V6 in towing—2,000 lbs without a package and 3,500 lbs with one.
Toyota Highlander 2nd Generation (2008 – 2013)
In 2008, the Highlander got a makeover. The base engine, a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, managed 1,500 lbs without a towing package and a cool 3,500 lbs with one. The V6 engine started at 2,000 lbs without a package but ramped up to a hefty 5,000 lbs with it.
The hybrid version, rocking a 3.3-liter V6 engine and an electric motor, could tow up to 3,500 lbs with a towing package.
Toyota Highlander 3rd Generation (2014 – 2019)
In 2014, the Highlander got a facelift. Engines stayed the same—2.7-liter and 3.5-liter. The smaller one tows 1,500 lbs without a tow package, 3,500 lbs with. The V6? Starts at 2,000 lbs, jumps to 5,000 lbs with the tow package.
This gen introduced a hybrid, towing 3,500 lbs. In 2017, a new V6 engine hit 5,000 lbs towing power without extra gear.
Toyota Highlander 4th Generation (2020 – Present)
2020 brought in the fourth-gen Highlander. No big engine changes. The base 2.5-liter tows 3,500 lbs without extras. The V6? A solid 5,000 lbs without any add-ons.
If you plan to tow, think about getting the towing package. It beefs up your Highlander with a better radiator, transmission cooler, and alternator. It’s like giving your Highlander the right tools for the towing job. Choose wisely, and you’re all set for a smooth towing experience!
How Much Can a Toyota Highlander Tow in KG?
Curious about how much stuff a Toyota Highlander can pull in kilograms? If you’re using the metric system, here’s the deal: the Highlander can tow up to 2,268 kilograms when set up right. That’s a lot!
Why does it matter? Think road trips or helping a friend move. Knowing your Highlander can handle over two metric tons is pretty cool.
To make sure you tow like a champ, get your setup right. Check everything from the hitch to the transmission for a smooth ride.
How Well Does the Toyota Highlander Tow?
Trying out the Toyota Highlander for towing was a real eye-opener. The V6 engine is strong, making towing super easy. With the all-wheel drive, you get stability and control without any fuss.
What’s cool is the trailer sway control—it keeps things steady on the road, whether you’re towing a boat or a trailer. The Highlander handles it like a pro. It’s got power, stability, and nifty features that make it a top pick for towing.
In my experience, the Toyota Highlander is a trusty sidekick for anyone needing towing power. No need to get into the nitty-gritty—it’s straightforward and gets the job done without any hassle.
Which Toyota Highlander is Best for Towing?
In finding the best Toyota Highlander for towing, I found that the V6 engine and all-wheel drive are winners. They handle heavier loads with ease.
The V6 packs a punch, making towing smooth. Add the all-wheel drive for stability. Whether it’s trailers or boats, these Highlanders got you covered.
Strong performance and great towing features make them perfect for towing needs. Choose V6 and all-wheel drive for a ready-to-go Highlander.
What Can the Toyota Highlander Tow?
So, what can you tow with the Toyota Highlander? Well, it depends on what you’re towing. The Highlander can tow a variety of trailers, including small boats, pop-up campers, and small travel trailers.
When it comes to boats, the Highlander can tow boats weighing up to 5,000 pounds. However, it’s important to remember that the weight of the boat includes the weight of the trailer, so you’ll need to make sure your trailer is properly equipped to handle the weight of your boat.
When compared to other vehicles in its class, the Highlander’s towing capacity is competitive. It’s able to tow more than some other mid-size SUVs, like the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride.
Tips for Towing with the Toyota Highlander
Towing can be tricky, especially if you’re new to it. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when towing with the Toyota Highlander:
- Make sure your trailer is properly loaded and balanced. You don’t want all the weight on one side of the trailer, as this can cause it to sway while driving.
- Check your mirrors often to make sure your trailer is still in place and not swaying.
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road, especially when braking or turning.
- Avoid sudden movements or changes in speed. Smooth, gradual movements are key when towing.
- Always follow the speed limits and road rules when towing.
When it comes to loading your trailer, make sure you distribute the weight evenly. The heavier items should be placed closer to the center of the trailer and low to the ground. This will help with stability and prevent the trailer from swaying.
Lastly, make sure you drive safely when towing. Give yourself plenty of time to stop and avoid sudden movements or jerky driving. Remember, you’re towing a heavy load, so it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
