Does the Toyota Highlander have a trailer hitch?
Yes. The Toyota Highlander can tow with a trailer hitch when equipped with the proper hardware, typically a 2-inch Class III hitch receiver as part of Toyota’s Tow Package. Towing capacity varies by powertrain: up to 5,000 pounds on gasoline models and up to 3,500 pounds on Hybrid versions, according to Toyota’s latest specifications.
What you need to know about the hitch
The key factors are whether the Tow Package is installed and which drivetrain your Highlander uses. The hitch itself is a 2-inch receiver designed for a range of trailers, and the electrical connections are provided by a trailer wiring harness. Connector configurations (such as 4-pin and/or 7-pin) can differ by model year and market.
Tow Package components you’ll typically encounter
Tow Package components
- 2-inch Class III hitch receiver
- Tow wiring harness for trailer lights (configurations vary by year and market)
- Supportive towing hardware and recommendations from Toyota for safe operation
Note: If your Highlander did not come with the Tow Package from the factory, it will not have a hitch installed. Adding the package or using an OEM-compatible aftermarket hitch are common paths for owners who plan to tow.
Towing capacity by powertrain
Engine choice and drivetrain influence the maximum trailer weight you can safely tow. Here are the typical figures reported by Toyota for recent model years, when the vehicle is properly equipped with the Tow Package and other towing requirements (such as trailer brakes, where applicable).
Estimated towing limits by configuration
- Gasoline Highlander with a 2.4-liter turbo engine and Tow Package: up to 5,000 pounds
- Gasoline Highlander in other configurations with Tow Package: up to 5,000 pounds
- Hybrid Highlander: up to 3,500 pounds with Tow Package
Always verify the exact rating for your specific model year, trim, and equipment, and follow Toyota’s towing guidelines and local regulations. Ratings assume appropriate hitch, wiring, and braking requirements are met.
How to verify whether your Highlander is ready to tow
To confirm whether your vehicle currently has a hitch and is ready for towing, check these indicators and resources.
- Inspect the rear end for a 2-inch hitch receiver and trailer wiring harness under the bumper
- Consult the owner’s manual or the window sticker for towing capability and Tow Package status
- Review the door jamb placard for the maximum towing weight and required conditions
If you don’t see a hitch or wiring and you intend to tow, talk to a Toyota dealer about the OEM Tow Package installation or a properly matched aftermarket option that preserves warranty and safety standards.
Alternatives and warranty considerations
Owners have a few paths to enabling towing beyond the base configuration, each with its own considerations for warranty and safety.
- OEM Tow Package installation through a Toyota dealer
- Aftermarket 2-inch Class III hitch compatible with Toyota mounting points and wiring
- Appropriate trailer wiring harness and brake controller (if required) installed and tested
Before proceeding, confirm how installation may affect your vehicle’s warranty and ensure professional installation to maintain towing safety and compliance with local regulations.
Summary
The Highlander can accommodate a trailer hitch and tow trailers when equipped with the factory Tow Package or an approved dealer-installed setup. A typical 2-inch Class III hitch receiver is used, with trailer wiring and towing accessories included or recommended by Toyota. Towing capacity varies by powertrain: gasoline models can tow up to about 5,000 pounds, while Hybrid versions top out around 3,500 pounds. Always verify the exact specification for your model year and configuration and follow official guidelines for safe towing.
