Can a Lexus pull an RV?
Yes. Some Lexus SUVs can tow travel trailers, but only within the vehicle’s published limits and with the right equipment and careful weight management.
The question of whether a Lexus can pull an RV depends on the specific model, the RV’s weight, and how you equip the vehicle. This article explains which current Lexus models offer meaningful towing capability, what kinds of RVs they can handle, and the practical steps and safety considerations involved in towing.
Tow-capable Lexus models: what the lineup can handle
Below is a look at the Lexus SUVs most commonly used for towing, with typical maximums. Exact numbers vary by year, trim, and whether a dealer-installed tow package is equipped. Always verify the rating for your specific vehicle configuration.
- Lexus LX (2022–present) — up to 8,000 lbs when properly equipped. This flagship SUV offers the highest towing capacity in the Lexus lineup, making it suitable for many mid-size travel trailers.
- Lexus GX (2020–present) — up to about 6,500 lbs. A solid mid-range option for lighter-to-midweight trailers; payload and tongue weight still factor into the calculation.
- Lexus RX (2023–present) — up to about 3,500 lbs with the factory tow package. Suitable for smaller travel trailers and some compact setups.
- Lexus NX and UX (compact crossovers) — generally lighter towing capability, commonly around 2,000 lbs for NX and about 1,500 lbs for UX; some years/options vary, so check the exact spec for your vehicle.
For RV towing, the LX and GX deliver the bulk of practical capability, while the RX can handle smaller trailers. Always confirm the exact towing specification for your model year and trim in the owner’s manual or with a dealer.
RV types and how they align with Lexus towing
To plan a tow, it helps to categorize common RV types by how heavy and how demanding they are on a tow vehicle. The following overview explains which Lexus models are most likely to work with which RV types.
(bumper-pull) are the most common RV towed behind SUVs. Light to mid-weight travel trailers (roughly up to 6,000–7,500 lbs GVWR in many cases) can be feasible with LX or GX; smaller units may be within RX limits. Always compare the trailer’s GVWR and tongue weight to the vehicle’s tow rating and payload. require a hitch in the truck bed and are generally not practical with a Lexus SUV. Most fifth-wheels need a pickup capable of a heavy hitch and large payload; consult the manufacturer and a towing professional if you’re considering this configuration. are lightweight and often towable by LX, GX, or even RX if within rating. They’re good options for drivers prioritizing lower tow heft and easier handling. vary widely in weight. If the trailer’s GVWR approaches the upper end of your vehicle’s rating (or exceeds it), you’ll want a more capable vehicle—usually the LX or possibly the GX with careful planning and equipment.
These guidelines emphasize that RV compatibility hinges on accurate weight data (GVWR, dry weight, hitch weight) and ensuring your vehicle’s gross combined weight rating (GCWR) isn’t exceeded. Always cross-check the trailer’s certified weights with your vehicle’s specifications.
Practical towing essentials for a Lexus and an RV
Before hitting the road, ensure you have the right setup and know-how. The following checklist covers common requirements and best practices for towing with a Lexus SUV.
— confirm your Lexus has the factory towing package or a certified aftermarket equivalent, including the appropriate hitch receiver and wiring harness. — for heavier trailers, a weight-distribution hitch helps balance load between vehicle and trailer; sway control improves stability in winds or during lane changes. — many larger trailers require electric brakes; a proportional brake controller installed in the vehicle is typically necessary for safe stopping. — payload includes passengers, cargo, and the hitch weight. Tongue weight is usually about 10–15% of the trailer’s GVWR; ensure your vehicle’s payload covers this while leaving enough capacity for occupants and gear. — both vehicle and trailer tires must be within load ratings, with properly inflated tires. Carry a spare and inspect tires before trips. — follow local laws for trailer brakes, lighting, and signaling; ensure insurance coverage accounts for towing activities; ensure you have a functioning trailer wiring harness and test lights.
With the right equipment and weight discipline, a Lexus can tow an RV safely and reliably, but impairment can occur if capacity is exceeded or equipment is substandard. Planning and professional advice are key.
Safeguards for fifth-wheel and other non-standard arrangements
Fifth-wheel and similar gooseneck configurations are not a typical match for SUVs like Lexus models, which rely on a hitch in a vehicle’s rear bumper area rather than a bed-mounted hitch. For those set on heavier, bed-mounted setups, a pickup truck remains the standard platform. If you’re exploring any non-standard arrangement, consult both the trailer manufacturer and a towing specialist to confirm feasibility and safety.
In practice, most RV enthusiasts who tow with a Lexus stay within bumper-pull trailer setups and select trailers whose GVWR aligns with the vehicle’s tow rating plus payload. This approach yields better control, braking capability, and overall safety on highways and in variable terrain.
Summary
To summarize, a Lexus can pull an RV, but only when you choose a model with sufficient towing capacity (notably the LX or GX for heavier trailers) and use the proper equipment (tow package, hitch, brakes, and weight-management strategies). Smaller SUVs like the RX can handle lighter trailers, while NX and UX are generally limited to modest weights. Always verify the exact ratings for your year and trim, factor in trailer weight, tongue weight, payload, and GCWR, and adhere to local towing laws and safety practices. With careful planning and the right gear, towing an RV with a Lexus is a feasible option for many trips.
Which Lexus models can tow?
Several Lexus models can tow, with the towing capacity varying significantly by model: the LX can tow up to 8,000 lbs, the GX up to 9,063 lbs, the TX up to 5,000 lbs, the RX up to 3,500 lbs, and the NX up to 2,000 lbs. The appropriate Lexus for towing depends on the weight of the load you need to haul.
Lexus towing capacities
- Lexus LX: Up to 8,000 lbs, making it the most capable Lexus SUV for hauling heavy loads like larger campers or boats.
- Lexus GX: Up to 9,063 lbs, one of the most capable luxury SUVs for towing.
- Lexus TX: Up to 5,000 lbs.
- Lexus RX: All models (gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid) have a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, suitable for smaller trailers and jet skis.
- Lexus NX: Up to 2,000 lbs, designed for light-duty tasks and smaller recreational equipment.
- Lexus UX: Towing capacity information varies, but it is the smallest SUV in the lineup and is intended for light loads.
Does Lexus provide towing?
24-HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Coverage includes lockout protection, flat tire changes, jump starts, emergency fuel delivery and towing.
Can a Lexus RX 350 tow a camper?
The Lexus RX 350 towing capacity across all trim levels is 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. That's substantial for an SUV of this size, giving you the strength to haul a range of weight-appropriate items; this might include a light utility trailer, a pop-up camper, or a small fishing boat.
Can a Lexus pull a camper?
The 2023 LX
The car glides along thanks to adjustable air suspension and pliable, responsive handling. The LX has the capacity to tow 8,000 pounds making it another fantastic choice for you and your camper.
