How much can a Lexus RX 250 tow?
The Lexus RX 250 can tow roughly 1,600–2,000 kg (3,527–4,409 lbs) when properly equipped with a towing package; unbraked towing capacity is lower. Exact figures hinge on market, model year, and installed equipment.
In practice, to understand what this means for a specific vehicle, buyers should consult the owner's manual, the door jamb placard, or a Lexus dealer for the precise rating applicable to their VIN.
What determines the RX 250's towing limit
Several variables influence the official rating, and they can vary by country and year.
- Market and model year: Different regions may certify different towing limits due to regulations and available options.
- Engine and transmission: Towing capacity can be affected by the powertrain configuration for that market.
- Towing package and radiator/cooling upgrades: Official tow packages boost capacity and keep engine/transmission temperatures in check while towing.
- Vehicle payload and GVWR: The car’s own weight limit and cargo capacity constrain how much you can tow safely.
Because the rating changes with configuration, verify the exact figure for your car using the VIN-based spec sheet or the vehicle’s door plaque.
Braked vs unbraked towing: what to expect
Braked capacity
With a factory tow package and a trailer with its own brakes, the RX 250’s braked towing capacity is typically in the 1,600–2,000 kg (3,527–4,409 lbs) range, depending on market and year.
Unbraked capacity
Unbraked towing capacity is lower, commonly around 750–1,000 kg (1,653–2,205 lbs). This is rarely practical for weighty trailers and is subject to local road rules.
Ultimately, the precise figure for your vehicle should be confirmed from the official source for your VIN.
How to confirm your vehicle’s exact rating
Use these steps to lock in the correct towing limit before hitting the road.
- Check the owner's manual for the stated towing capacity for your year and market.
- Inspect the door jamb placard for the official braked and unbraked capacities for your VIN.
- Ask a Lexus dealer or service center to pull the official VIN-specific towing specification.
- Confirm whether your RX 250 is equipped with a towing package and required cooling upgrades.
- Factor in your payload (people and cargo) to ensure the combined weight is within GVWR when towing.
With the exact rating in hand, you can plan your towing more safely and in line with legal requirements.
Practical towing considerations
Beyond the official rating, practical guidelines help maintain safety and reliability while towing an RX 250.
- Weight distribution: Aim for a hitch weight around 10–15% of the trailer’s loaded weight.
- Braking and electrical: Ensure trailer brakes, brake controller (if required), and lighting are in good working order.
- Cooling and transmission: Long hills or heavy loads should be paced to prevent overheating; allow cooldown periods after steep descents.
- Legal limits and insurance: Respect local towing rules, speed limits, and insurance requirements for trailers.
Summary
The RX 250’s towing capability is generally in the range of 1,600–2,000 kg (3,527–4,409 lbs) braked when properly equipped, with lower unbraked limits. Because ratings vary by market, year, and equipment, always verify the exact number for your vehicle via the owner's manual, door placard, or a Lexus dealer. When towing, prioritize weight distribution, braking, and compliance with local rules.
What is the 80% rule for towing?
The 80% rule for towing is a safety guideline that recommends the weight of a fully loaded trailer should not exceed 80% of a vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for unpredictable conditions and reduces stress on the vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes, helping to ensure better handling and a longer lifespan for components.
How it works
- Calculate your vehicle's limit: Find your vehicle's maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website.
- Calculate 80% of the limit: Multiply the maximum towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your safe towing limit. For example, if your vehicle can tow 10,00010 comma 00010,000 pounds, your limit is 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds.
- Account for all weight: Ensure the total weight of the fully loaded trailer, including cargo and passengers in both the vehicle and the trailer, stays below this 80% limit.
Why it's important
- Safety margin: It provides a buffer for real-world factors like hills, curves, and sudden stops.
- Vehicle longevity: It reduces strain on key components like the engine, transmission, and brakes, which can extend their lifespan.
- Handling: Maintaining a margin helps ensure your vehicle can be steered and controlled effectively, even under load.
Can a Lexus RX pull a trailer?
There is something for everyone to like about the RX, and this is why it has always been such a big hit. And one of those likable features is, of course, an impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.
Which Lexus SUV can tow 5000 lbs?
The 2025 Lexus TX can tow up to 5,000 lbs, making it a good option for towing tasks that require that capacity. For heavier towing needs, other models like the Lexus GX or LX have much higher towing capacities, with the GX capable of towing up to 9,096 lbs and the LX up to 8,000 lbs.
Lexus models with 5,000 lbs towing capacity
- Lexus TX: Both the gas-powered TX 350 and the hybrid TX 500h have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs across all trim levels.
Lexus models with greater towing capacity
- Lexus GX: The 2025 GX 550 offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,096 lbs.
- Lexus LX: The Lexus LX has a maximum towing capacity of 8,000 lbs.
Lexus models with less than 5,000 lbs towing capacity
- Lexus RX: The RX lineup (RX 350, RX 350h, RX 450h+, and RX 500h) has a maximum towing capacity of 3,494 lbs.
What is the towing capacity of the Lexus 250h?
The 1,650 pounds of towing capacity that comes with the Lexus UX 250h is ideal for families in Moorestown that want to have weekend fun.
