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What Honda can tow 5000 pounds?

Several Honda models are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, notably the Ridgeline pickup, Passport SUV, and Pilot SUV.


Honda models that tow 5,000 pounds


The following models typically achieve the 5,000-lb towing limit when equipped with the factory tow package. Availability and exact rating depend on year, drivetrain, and installed towing gear.



  • Honda Ridgeline — up to 5,000 lbs with the factory tow package (3.5L V6).

  • Honda Passport — up to 5,000 lbs with the proper towing package (3.5L V6).

  • Honda Pilot — up to 5,000 lbs with the towing package (3.5L V6).


Note that not every trim of these models ships with a 5,000-lb rating by default. Always verify the exact rating for your specific year and configuration in the owner's manual or on Honda's official site.


Model-year variations and trim notes


Towing capabilities can vary by year and trim. For example, the Ridgeline’s 5,000-lb rating requires the HD tow package, while Passport and Pilot ratings depend on having the appropriate towing equipment installed. Always check your exact model year’s specifications before towing.


Important towing considerations


To tow 5,000 pounds safely, you’ll need to follow proper setup and guidelines. The list below covers the key requirements and checks to perform before towing.



  • Use a factory-recommended tow package or a certified Class III hitch (typically 2-inch) rated for at least 5,000 pounds, along with the correct hitch and wiring.

  • Consider a weight-distribution hitch for longer or heavier trailers to improve stability and steering control.

  • Ensure your vehicle’s payload capacity can accommodate the tongue weight of the trailer and the weight of passengers and cargo.

  • Verify the gross combined weight rating (GCWR) and never exceed it by overloading the trailer or vehicle.

  • Check trailer brakes and install a braking controller if required by your trailer or local regulations.

  • Inspect tires, cooling system, and cooling capacity; towing near the limit reduces reserve cooling margin and may affect performance.

  • Review local towing laws and insurance requirements for trailers of this size.


Following these steps helps ensure safe, compliant towing at the 5,000-pound threshold with eligible Honda models.


Summary


In short, the Honda Ridgeline, Passport, and Pilot are the current models most commonly capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the required tow packages. Confirm the exact rating for your year and drivetrain, install the correct hitch and braking equipment, and tow within the vehicle’s limits to ensure safety and reliability.

What Honda is best for towing?


The best Honda for towing is the Ridgeline, Pilot, and Passport, which can all tow up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD). The Odyssey is also capable of towing, but its capacity is limited to 3,500 lbs. The specific best vehicle depends on your needs beyond just towing, as the Ridgeline is a truck, the Pilot is a larger three-row SUV, and the Passport is a mid-size SUV.
 
Top Honda models for towing

  • Honda Ridgeline: As Honda's only truck, it's a top choice for towing with a 5,000 lb capacity. It features a V6 engine and is well-suited for heavier jobs. 
  • Honda Pilot: This three-row SUV can tow up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with AWD. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models have a lower capacity of 3,500 lbs. 
  • Honda Passport: Similar to the Pilot, the Passport can tow up to 5,000 lbs with AWD and 3,500 lbs with FWD. 

Other Honda options for towing
  • Honda Odyssey: The minivan is capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs, making it a good option for pulling a small trailer for family outings. 



What Honda has 5000 lb towing capacity?


Honda Ridgeline
Honda Ridgeline: 5,000 lbs.
This rugged truck model enjoys superb Honda towing specs with a potent 3.5L V6 engine under the hood that produces a mighty 280 horsepower and 262 lb. -ft. of torque. The Honda Ridgeline towing specs garners a maximum capacity of 5,000 lbs.



Can a Honda Odyssey tow 5000 lbs?


No, a Honda Odyssey cannot tow 5,000 lbs; its maximum towing capacity is 3,500 lbs when properly equipped. While models like the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline have a 5,000-pound towing capacity, the Odyssey is limited to 3,500 lbs across all its trim levels. 

  • Maximum towing capacity: 3,500 lbs. 
  • Required equipment: The vehicle must be properly equipped to reach this capacity, which can include a dealer-installed towing package. 
  • Similar models: Other Honda vehicles, such as the Pilot and Ridgeline, are rated for up to 5,000 lbs, which may be a better option if you need to tow a heavier load. 



What is the best vehicle to tow a 5000 lb travel trailer?


Picks for the Best Midsize SUV for Towing

SUV ModelTowing Capacity (lbs)Payload Capacity (lbs)
Toyota Highlander / Grand HighlanderUp to 5,000Up to 1,755
GMC AcadiaUp to 5,000Up to 1,846
Chevrolet TraverseUp to 5,000Up to 1,850
Nissan PathfinderUp to 6,000Up to 1,572


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.