Can you tow with a Lexus?
Yes—many Lexus models are capable of towing, especially the brand’s larger SUVs, but the exact trailer weight you can pull varies by model, engine, drivetrain, and equipment. This guide explains what to know before you tow and how to choose the right setup for your Lexus.
Overview: towing capability across the Lexus lineup
The ability to tow depends on the vehicle's design and the factory towing package, if offered. Lexus often reserves lower towing limits for compact crossovers and sedans, while the LX and GX lineups are built for heavier loads. Always consult the specific owner's manual for your exact model year and configuration to learn the official gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), tongue weight limits, and maximum trailer weight.
- Full-size luxury SUVs (LX family) typically offer the highest towing capacities in the Lexus lineup when properly equipped with the factory towing package and trailer brake controller.
- Mid-size SUVs (GX) provide substantial towing capability suitable for boats, campers, or utility trailers, again with the appropriate equipment.
- Mid-size crossovers (RX) generally offer moderate towing capacity, commonly enough for small to mid-size trailers with the proper tow package.
- Compact crossovers (NX, UX) tend to have lower towing limits, often around a couple thousand pounds or less, depending on the engine and options.
- Hybrid and electrified models have towing guidance that varies by model year and package; some may restrict towing or require specific equipment to tow.
In general, Lexus’ strongest towing options live in the LX and GX families, with RX offering mid-range capability and NX/UX delivering lighter-duty towing. Always verify the exact rating for your vehicle and year.
Model-specific guidance
The following outlines typical patterns, with the caveat that exact numbers vary by year, engine, and optional towing packages. Use the manufacturer's spec to confirm what your vehicle can safely tow.
LX — the full-size option
The LX is designed for heavier loads, and with the right equipment, it can tow substantial trailers. If your LX is equipped with the official towing package, harness, and power for trailer brakes, you can tow heavier loads compared with smaller Lexuses. Always check the spec sheet for your model year.
GX — the mid-size workhorse
The GX sits between the LX and RX in capability and is commonly used for towing boats and campers when properly equipped with the towing package and brake controller.
RX — the mid-size crossover
The RX offers a balance of comfort and capability, typically rated for moderate trailers. A factory towing package can be required or recommended to reach higher limits.
NX and UX — compact crossovers
These smaller crossovers generally have lower towing limits and are best for light-duty trailers or utility trailers; confirm with the owner’s manual and dealer for your exact spec.
Hybrid and electrified Lexuses
Towing guidance for hybrid and electrified Lexuses varies; some models permit towing within a limited range, while others have restrictions or require additional equipment. Always consult the manual and dealership for model-year-specific guidance.
Safety and equipment considerations when towing
To tow safely with any Lexus, use the correct equipment and follow best practices. Here’s a checklist for most configurations:
- Qualified hitch and tongue weight rating that matches your trailer’s weight; use a weight-distribution hitch if recommended or required by the trailer’s weight.
- Trailer brake controller: many Lexus models require an integrated or aftermarket brake controller for heavier trailers.
- Ensure the trailer and vehicle are properly wired (lights, brakes, and signaling) and that your mirrors provide adequate visibility for towing.
- Check GVWR, tongue weight, and GCWR in the owner's manual and ensure your load stays within limits.
- Inspect tires, wheel bearings, and cooling systems; towing adds stress to drivetrain and cooling components, especially on steep grades or hot weather.
- Practice safe loading: place most weight forward of the trailer’s axle, use appropriate tie-downs, and distribute the weight evenly.
- Consider local regulations on towing, including required brake systems, lighting, and speed restrictions.
- Confirm insurance coverage and any warranty impacts from towing; some warranties require factory towing equipment for certain claims.
With the right equipment and planning, many Lexus owners can tow safely and confidently, but never exceed the rated limits or tow beyond what the manual allows.
Summary
In short, you can tow with several Lexus models, especially the LX, GX, and RX, while NX and UX offer lighter-duty options. The key is to know your exact model year and equipment, use a properly rated hitch and braking system, and follow the vehicle’s official towing guidelines. Always refer to the owner’s manual and consult a Lexus dealer to confirm specifications for your configuration.
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Lexus?
Designed specifically for your vehicle, the Lexus Tow Hitch Receiver is engineered to meet the maximum tow rating. For best fit and performance use with the Genuine Lexus Ball Mount and Trailer Ball.
What can a Lexus RX 350 tow?
A Lexus RX 350 can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is suitable for light-duty hauling like small utility trailers, campers, a couple of jet skis, or a canoe. For the most reliable towing, it's recommended to use a Towing Prep Package, which often includes a heavy-duty radiator and engine/transmission oil coolers, and to avoid towing close to the maximum capacity, especially for long distances.
This video explains the towing capacity of the Lexus RX 350: 56sLexus of CalgaryYouTube · Mar 3, 2020
What you can tow
- Trailers: Small utility trailers, teardrop trailers, A-frame campers, and small enclosed or open trailers.
- Boats: A small fishing boat on a trailer.
- Personal Watercraft: A jet ski trailer.
- Recreational Gear: A canoe or kayak trailer.
- Other: A tow dolly.
Important considerations
- Proper Equipment: Ensure the vehicle is "properly equipped" with the necessary tow package, which can include a heavy-duty radiator and oil coolers for better performance under load.
- Weight Distribution: For heavier loads, consider a weight-distributing hitch for better handling and sway control, according to this Facebook post.
- Safety and Longevity: While the 3,500-pound capacity is the maximum, consistently towing at the limit can put extra strain on the vehicle. Be smart about it and listen to your vehicle—if you feel the transmission slipping, it may be best to avoid towing heavy loads or wait until you can upgrade to a more capable vehicle.
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.
