What is the towing capacity of the Lexus IS 350?
The Lexus IS 350 can tow up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) when properly equipped with the factory towing package; otherwise towing is not recommended.
The towing capacity of the IS 350 depends on model year, drivetrain, and whether you have the factory towing package installed. As a luxury sports sedan, its towing limit is modest by design, and exceeding the specified rating can affect safety and warranty. This article outlines the official capacity, equipment requirements, and practical considerations for towing with an IS 350.
Official towing capacity and equipment
Automakers publish a maximum tow rating that applies only when the vehicle is equipped with the recommended hardware. For the IS 350, the maximum tow rating is 2,000 pounds (907 kg) when joined with the factory towing hitch, trailer wiring, and any required towing package. Without these options, Lexus does not publish a tow rating and towing is not advised.
Year-to-year variations
In recent model years, Lexus has consistently listed 2,000 pounds as the IS 350’s towing limit when the proper tow package is installed. These ratings can vary by VIN and drivetrain configuration, so always verify the exact figure for your specific vehicle with the owner’s manual or a Lexus dealer.
- Maximum towing capacity: 2,000 pounds (907 kg) with the factory towing package and proper hitch/wiring.
- Required equipment: factory tow hitch receiver, trailer wiring harness, and, if applicable, an electronic brake controller for larger trailers.
- Availability: The towing package is optional on many IS 350 trims; confirm installation and rating for your exact model year and configuration.
- Drivetrain notes: Both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) IS 350 variants can be equipped for towing, but always check the VIN-specific rating.
These points summarize the official capacity and the equipment necessary to realize the stated limit. Always consult the owner’s manual and your dealership to confirm the precise rating for your vehicle.
Practical towing considerations
Even with the maximum rating, towing requires careful planning and safe practices. The IS 350’s performance-oriented design means you should account for braking distance, payload, and load distribution when towing any trailer.
To help ensure safe and compliant towing, consider the following guidelines:
- Adhere to the stated towing limit; do not exceed 2,000 pounds with the proper equipment installed.
- Use the appropriate hitch and wiring harness; install a trailer brake controller if required by the trailer or local regulations.
- Distribute weight evenly in the trailer and keep the tongue weight within the recommended range.
- Verify tire condition and pressures on both the IS 350 and the trailer; inspect lights, brakes, and hitch connections before every trip.
- Allow extra stopping distance and drive at conservative speeds, especially on hills or in adverse weather.
Following these practices helps maintain safety, vehicle control, and compliance with the vehicle’s warranty and local towing laws.
Summary
The Lexus IS 350 is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) when equipped with the factory towing package. This rating varies by year and VIN, so always verify your exact figure with the owner’s manual or a Lexus dealer. Use the proper towing equipment, respect weight limits, and adopt safe towing practices to protect both the vehicle and your trailer.
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 IS 350 tow?
This Fits Your 2022 Lexus IS 350. 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. Ball mount, trailer ball and tow hitch sold separately.
Which Lexus can tow 5000 lbs?
2025 LEXUS TX TOWING CAPACITY - 5,000 lbs
- TX 350 2.4L TURBO 4-Cylinder. Towing Capacity (lb.) - 5,000. Curb Weight (lb.) - 4,420.
- TX 350 AWD 2.4L TURBO 4-Cylinder. Towing Capacity (lb.) - 5,000. Curb Weight (lb.) - 4,575.
- TX 350 F SPORT HANDLING AWD 2.4L TURBO 4-Cylinder. Towing Capacity (lb.) - 5,000. Curb Weight (lb.) - 4,720.
Which Lexus is best for towing?
Our Top Pick for Towing with a Lexus: The LX
With the LX, you'll have a max hauling capacity of an impressive 8,000 pounds. Many competitor SUVs can't come close to hauling this amount, and it's more than some light-duty pickup trucks can handle.
