Can a Toyota HiLux tow a trailer?
Yes—the HiLux can tow a trailer, with a braked towing capacity typically up to 3,500 kg on many modern variants, depending on the model and equipment fitted.
The Toyota HiLux (often sold as the Hilux in some markets) is a versatile pickup known for work reliability and light-to-medium towing capability. Towing limits vary by factors such as engine choice, drivetrain, transmission, trim level, and regional specifications. This article explains the general capabilities, what to check on your specific vehicle, and practical guidance for safe towing.
Current models and market variants
Braked towing capacity
In contemporary Hilux models, the official braked towing limit is commonly listed at up to 3,500 kg, especially on versions equipped with higher-output diesels (such as the 2.8 GD-6 or 2.4 GD-6) and four-wheel drive. Some markets or older trims may show lower figures; always verify the rating on your vehicle’s VIN plate and in the owner’s manual.
- Braked towing capacity: up to 3,500 kg (varies by engine, transmission, drivetrain, and regional specification).
- Unbraked towing capacity: commonly around 750 kg, with some markets offering lower or higher limits.
- Trailer and vehicle weight interplay: ensure the trailer’s rating and the vehicle’s own weight limits (GVWR/GVM) are not exceeded when combined.
Bottom line: for most recent Hilux variants, a braked trailer of up to 3,500 kg is achievable with proper configuration. Exact figures should be confirmed from your vehicle’s plate or official Toyota documentation for your market and year.
How to tow safely with a HiLux
Before towing, prepare with a clear understanding of the vehicle’s limits and the trailer’s requirements. Use this checklist to start.
Before towing, check this list to ensure you have the correct equipment and compliance.
- Confirm the exact towing capacity for your specific model year and market from the owner’s manual or compliance plate.
- Verify the trailer’s weight (braked or unbraked) and ensure it fits within the HiLux’s rated limits.
- Match a hitch and coupling rated for the trailer’s weight; install a trailer brake controller if the trailer has electric or hydraulic brakes.
- Ensure trailer lighting, brakes, and electrical connections work properly before starting the trip.
- Check tongue weight and load distribution; aim for roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s weight on the hitch (tongue weight).
- Inspect tires (vehicle and trailer), brakes, and suspension; adjust tire pressures for towing and adjust for load.
- Plan for longer braking distances, maintain steady speeds, and use appropriate gear and engine braking when descending hills.
Following these checks helps ensure safe towing with your HiLux and protects both the vehicle and trailer during operation.
Legal and safety considerations
Licensing and trailer requirements
Regulations vary by country and region. In many places, heavy, braked trailers require specific licensing or endorsements, and trailers above certain weight thresholds may require mechanical braking systems and/or a brake controller integrated with the tow vehicle. Always verify local requirements, and ensure your HiLux configuration, braking setup, and insurance comply with the law.
Additionally, ensure that the towing configuration does not exceed the vehicle’s gross vehicle mass (GVM) and that the overall combination remains within the permitted gross combination weight (GCW) for your market. Insurance and roadside assistance plans may also have towing clauses that apply only if the vehicle and trailer are within spec.
Summary
In short: a Toyota HiLux can tow a trailer, with most modern variants capable of towing up to 3,500 kg when using a braked trailer and the vehicle is properly equipped. The exact limit depends on your model year, engine, transmission, and market. Always check the official rating for your specific vehicle, use the correct hitch and brake controller if required, ensure trailer compliance, and follow local laws and safety practices for a responsible towing experience.
What is the towing capacity of the Toyota HiLux 2.4 L?
The towing capacity of the Toyota HiLux supports up to 3500kg. This is a braked figure, while the maximum load for any vehicle without using trailer brakes is 750kg, if rated to tow that much in the first place.
What weight can a Toyota HiLux tow?
The Toyota Hilux has a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg for most current 4x4 models, while 4x2 models typically have a lower capacity. The specific towing capacity can vary based on the model year, engine, transmission, and configuration, so it's best to check your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact rating.
- Maximum towing capacity: 3,500 kg (braked) for many 4x4 models.
- Lower capacity: Some 4x2 and other models have lower capacities, sometimes starting around 2,500 kg.
- Important consideration: Always check your specific model's owner's manual to confirm its exact towing capacity before towing.
- Unbraked towing: For unbraked trailers, the capacity is significantly lower, typically capped at 750 kg if the vehicle is rated for it.
- Gross Combined Mass (GCM): Be mindful of the GCM, which is the combined weight of the vehicle and the trailer. For a 3,500 kg towing capacity, a vehicle like the 2023 SR5 4x4 has a GCM of 5,850 kg, according to this source.
What is better for towing, a HiLux or a Ranger?
The ranger also offers better off roading, towing and load capacities than the HiLux. The fuel efficiency offered by Ranger is around 9L compared to that of HiLux 's 8L but it offered an excellent cabin and drive comfort which is worth the trade-off.
What is the towing capacity of a 2000 Toyota HiLux?
The 2000 Toyota HiLux towing capacity is rated from 1800 kg to the maximum of 3500 kg.
