Do all Toyota Highlanders have a tow package?
A tow package is not standard on every Highlander. Availability depends on the model year, trim level, and whether the vehicle was equipped with Toyota’s factory Tow Package. When properly equipped, many Highlanders can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but base models or certain trims may not support towing without adding the package.
Tow Package: what it includes
The following items are commonly included in Toyota's Tow Package or are required to enable towing on Highlander models. These components help ensure the vehicle can haul trailers safely and reliably.
- Rear hitch receiver and hitch wiring harness
- Engine oil cooler and transmission cooler for added cooling capability
- Updated radiator or cooling system enhancements
- Trailer Sway Control system to improve stability when towing
- Brake controller wiring or integrated trailer braking support (where applicable)
If you plan to tow regularly, verify that the specific Highlander you’re considering includes the Tow Package and understands the rated towing capacity for that configuration. The owner’s manual and the vehicle’s build sheet are the best sources for definitive details.
Availability by trim and generation
Toyota has generally offered the Tow Package as an optional upgrade or as part of higher-trim packages across different generations. Availability and stated towing capacity can vary by year and engine choice. The broad pattern is that base or entry trims are less likely to include towing capability by default, while V6-equipped or higher-trim models more commonly offer a factory tow option and higher towing limits.
- Early generations (roughly 2001–2007): Tow capability was available primarily with the V6 and usually required selecting the Tow Package on higher trims.
- Mid generations (roughly 2008–2013): Tow Package commonly offered as an option on most trims with the V6; four-cylinder models often had limited or no factory tow support.
- Recent generations (roughly 2014–2019): Tow Package widely available on V6 configurations, with capacities up to about 5,000 pounds when equipped properly.
- Current generation (2020–present): Tow Package commonly offered across multiple trims, with a 5,000-pound towing cap for properly equipped models, including those with the 3.5L V6 and the newer 2.4L turbo engine, depending on the exact configuration.
Because the details can differ by year and engine, the safest approach is to check the specific vehicle’s build sheet or window sticker, or confirm with a Toyota dealership for the exact towing rating and package contents.
How to verify whether your Highlander has the Tow Package
To determine if a particular Highlander is equipped for towing, use these checks. They help you confirm the presence of a Tow Package or the vehicle’s towing capabilities.
Check the window sticker or build sheet
Look for a line item labeled Tow Package, Towing Package, or a list of towing-related equipment. This is the most direct confirmation from the factory configuration.
Inspect the vehicle’s hardware
Look for a Class IV or higher hitch receiver, a dedicated trailer wiring harness, and any visible cooling upgrades in the engine bay or under the vehicle.
Review the interior electronics
Check for a trailer brake controller (either integrated or wired for retrofit) and Trailer Sway Control, which are common components of a towing setup.
Consult the owner’s manual or dealership
The manual will specify the maximum towing capacity for your exact configuration, and a dealer can pull the correct build data for you if you’re unsure.
Summary
In short, not every Toyota Highlander comes with a tow package by default. The Tow Package is typically available as an option or as part of higher trims, and the available towing capacity depends on the engine, drivetrain, and year. For those who plan to tow, check the specific vehicle’s documentation and confirm the exact towing rating and included components before relying on it for trailer duties.
