What is the weight limit for the Toyota Highlander?

The weight limits of a Toyota Highlander are defined by four key figures: GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), curb weight, payload capacity, and towing capacity. While exact numbers vary by year, trim, and drivetrain, typical ranges help you plan loads and trailers. Always check the door jamb sticker or the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

In most recent Highlander models, GVWR generally sits around 6,000 to 6,300 pounds, curb weight is roughly 4,500 to 4,900 pounds, payload capacity is about 1,100 to 1,600 pounds, and you can tow up to 5,000 pounds when the vehicle is properly equipped. These figures can shift with changes in configuration, so year and trim matter for precise planning.

Core weight metrics

These metrics define the practical load and towing limits you’ll encounter day to day.

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): typically around 6,000–6,300 pounds; this is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle plus cargo, passengers, and accessories.


• Curb weight: roughly 4,500–4,900 pounds; the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment, fluids, and no passengers or cargo.


• Payload capacity: approximately 1,100–1,600 pounds; the maximum combined weight of passengers and cargo that can be carried beyond the curb weight.


• Towing capacity: up to about 5,000 pounds when properly equipped; varies by year, trim, and configuration, including engine and tow package options.

Understanding these figures helps you avoid overloading the Highlander, which can affect braking, handling, and safety. Always confirm the exact numbers for your specific vehicle with the door jamb sticker or the owner's manual.

How weight limits vary by year, trim, and drivetrain

Weight specifications are not identical across every Highlander. Differences in model year, trim level, and drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD, and non-hybrid vs. hybrid) can shift curb weight and payload, while GVWR tends to stay within a similar range but may vary slightly by configuration.

• Model year and generation: small changes in platform and equipment can alter curb weight and payload, even if GVWR remains close from year to year.


• Drivetrain and powertrain: AWD versions are typically heavier than FWD, and hybrid variants can have different weight and payload profiles compared with non-hybrids.


• Equipment and packages: tow packages, roof racks, leather seating, and other options can raise curb weight and reduce available payload.

To be precise, always verify the exact GVWR, curb weight, and payload for your specific Highlander using the VIN-based specs from Toyota or the sticker on the driver’s door jamb.

Calculating payload and towing for your Highlander

Payload calculation

Payload equals GVWR minus curb weight. For example, if a Highlander has a GVWR around 6,100 pounds and a curb weight around 4,600 pounds, its payload is about 1,500 pounds. This is the maximum allowable weight for all passengers and cargo combined beyond the vehicle’s base weight.

Towing considerations

The towing capacity is the maximum trailer weight the Highlander can safely pull when properly equipped. A typical limit is up to 5,000 pounds, but real-world towing can be affected by payload, terrain, and configuration. Tongue weight—usually about 10% of the trailer’s weight—also factors into safe towing. Always plan within the manufacturer’s stated limits and consult the trailer package documentation for precise guidance.

Summary: The Highlander’s weight limits hinge on GVWR, curb weight, payload, and towing capacity, and these numbers vary by year, trim, and drivetrain. Use the door sticker and the owner's manual to confirm the exact figures for your vehicle, and plan loads accordingly to maintain safe handling and braking.

Which Toyota Highlander to stay away from?

You should avoid the 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2015 model years of the Toyota Highlander due to common issues like engine problems in the 2003, and transmission glitches in the 2008 and 2015 models. Other years to be cautious with are 2009, 2010, and 2020, which had a higher number of recalls or transmission and software issues.
 
This video discusses common problems with Toyota Highlanders from 2020 to 2025: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Years to avoid

• 2003: Engine overheating and the possibility of needing a costly engine block swap. 
• 2008: Significant issues with the braking system and a high number of recalls and complaints. 
• 2009 and 2010: A high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning the braking system. 
• 2014 and 2015: These years had early issues with transmission glitches and technology problems. 
• 2020: This model year experienced some transmission and software problems. 

Other considerations

• 2021: Reports of transmission failures. 
• 2023: In the non-hybrid, the turbocharged engine had issues with acceleration and the infotainment system could be unreliable. 
• 2024: Reports of issues with the infotainment system, a noisy engine, and hesitation. 

What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?

Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders. 
Current and recent lawsuits

• Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items. 
• Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org. 
• Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity. 
• Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning. 
• Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org. 

How to proceed

• Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
• Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
• Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement. 
• Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants. 

How much weight can I put in the back of my Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander's cargo weight capacity is referred to as its payload capacity, which varies by model year and trim. For example, a 2023 model has a maximum payload of around 1,715 pounds, while a 2022 XSE has a payload of 1,635 pounds. A 2023 Hybrid is listed with a payload of 1,485 pounds, while 2019 models ranged from 1,486 to 1,602 pounds depending on the trim. 
Payload capacity by model year

• 2023: Around 1,715 pounds.
• 2022: 1,635 pounds for the XSE trim.
• 2021: 1,485 to 1,685 pounds, depending on the trim level.
• 2019: 1,486 to 1,602 pounds, depending on the trim level. 

How to calculate and use the payload capacity

• Payload is the total weight of passengers and cargo: inside the vehicle, not what it can tow. 
• To find the payload, subtract the vehicle's curb weight from its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). 
• It's important not to exceed the payload capacity, as this can impact the vehicle's handling and safety. 
• The payload capacity is a maximum limit for the combined weight of all passengers and all items placed inside or on the vehicle. 

Other relevant information

• Towing capacity: This is separate from payload capacity and refers to how much weight the Highlander can tow behind it. Many recent models have a 5,000-pound towing capacity, though the hybrid models typically have a lower limit of around 3,500 pounds. 
• Cargo space: This refers to the volume of space available for cargo. The Highlander offers different cubic footage depending on whether the third-row or both the second and third-row seats are folded down. 

How much weight can a Highlander carry?

A Toyota Highlander can carry a payload capacity of up to 1,685 pounds and has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, depending on the model year and specific configuration. The payload is for weight inside the vehicle, while towing capacity is for pulling a trailer or other object. For the hybrid models, the towing capacity may be lower, and a vehicle's actual capacity is always determined by its specific Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and its curb weight. 
Payload capacity

• Maximum payload: Up to 1,685 pounds for some models. This is the total weight of passengers, cargo, and accessories inside the vehicle. 
• Cargo space:
  • Behind the third row: 16 cubic feet 
  • Behind the second row: 48.4 cubic feet 
  • Behind the first row (with second and third rows folded): Up to 84.3 cubic feet 

Towing capacity

• Standard gas models: Up to 5,000 pounds. 
• Hybrid models: Varies by model year, with some having a 3,500-pound capacity and others having a 5,000-pound capacity, depending on the specific hybrid engine. 
• Important note: The payload and towing capacities are separate. The total weight in and on the vehicle, including the tongue weight of a trailer, must not exceed the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).