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Which Honda can tow 5000 lbs?

Honda’s lineup that can pull up to 5,000 pounds includes the Pilot, Ridgeline, and Passport, when properly equipped with the manufacturer tow package. These models use a 3.5-liter V6 and a modern automatic transmission to deliver their towing capability. Other Hondas in the lineup typically have lower tow ratings.


To understand which Honda can tow 5,000 pounds, we look at the brand’s SUVs and truck-like crossover offerings, the equipment required to reach that maximum, and how payload and tongue weight influence real-world towing. The answer hinges on factory specifications, drivetrain choices, and the presence of a dedicated towing package.


Models in Honda's lineup that tow up to 5,000 pounds


These three models represent Honda’s 5,000-pound towing capability when properly equipped. They share a robust V6 under the hood and a compatible automatic transmission, plus the option of all-wheel drive in many trims.



  • Honda Pilot — 3.5L V6, 9-speed automatic; capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds with the Factory Tow Package and appropriate trailer brakes.

  • Honda Ridgeline — 3.5L V6, 9-speed automatic; designed as a unibody pickup with up to 5,000 pounds of towing when properly equipped.

  • Honda Passport — 3.5L V6, 9-speed automatic; available with AWD and a tow package to achieve up to 5,000 pounds of towing.


Note that actual towing capacity can vary by model year, drivetrain, trim level, and whether the vehicle has the factory tow package, upgraded cooling, trailer brakes, and a weight-distributing hitch. Always verify the specific spec for your vehicle and year before towing.


Important towing considerations


To tow safely and within the rated limit, drivers should fit the recommended equipment and follow best practices for towing. This includes using a proper hitch, trailer brake controller if required, and ensuring load distribution aligns with the trailer’s tongue weight. Payload capacity of the vehicle also factors into how much total weight can be carried while towing.


Other Honda models and towing expectations


Beyond the 5,000-pound-capable trio, most other Honda models have lower towing ratings or are not intended for heavy towing. For example, the CR-V, Odyssey, HR-V and similar models generally tow well below 5,000 pounds. Always check the official spec for your exact year and trim when planning to tow.


Summary


In short, if you need to tow up to 5,000 pounds with a Honda, your best options are the Pilot, Ridgeline, or Passport, each capable of reaching that maximum when equipped with Honda’s tow package and the appropriate braking and hitch setup. For any towing plan, verify your year and trim’s official rating, ensure you have the necessary equipment, and factor in payload, tongue weight, and real-world conditions.

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.



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. 



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.