Which Lexus SUV can tow 5000 pounds?
The GX and LX are the Lexus SUVs that can tow 5,000 pounds or more, with the GX rated up to about 6,500 pounds and the LX capable of around 7,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Towing capability depends on the exact model year, drivetrain, and towing package. This article explains which Lexus SUVs meet or exceed the 5,000-pound threshold and what buyers should check before hitching a heavy trailer.
Models that reach or exceed 5,000 pounds
Two current Lexus SUVs meet or surpass the 5,000-pound benchmark. Here are the specifics for each:
Lexus GX
The GX is rated for up to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped with the factory towing package and hitch. This mid-size SUV uses a robust powertrain and chassis designed to handle mid-size trailers, boats, or campers when within the specified limits.
Lexus LX
The LX can tow about 7,000 pounds with the appropriate towing package and equipment. As a full-size SUV, it is designed to handle heavier trailers and offers a higher payload and stability suite to support heavier tow loads.
Other Lexus models such as the RX and NX do not reach the 5,000-pound threshold in current configurations. If towing above 5,000 pounds is a priority, the GX or LX are the relevant options within the Lexus lineup.
What to verify before towing heavy loads
To ensure safe and compliant towing, verify these aspects on your specific vehicle and configuration:
- Check the exact maximum towing capacity for your model year and drivetrain in the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s specifications.
- Confirm that your vehicle has the appropriate factory towing package and hitch installed.
- Ensure the trailer has its own braking system and that the tow setup includes a trailer brake controller if required.
- Assess tongue weight and payload capacity to avoid exceeding GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) and axle limits.
- Use the recommended hitch class and weight-distribution components for heavier trailers, if specified.
- Periodically re-check ratings after any changes to tires, suspension, or drivetrain configuration that could affect towing performance.
Proper preparation, including the right equipment and adherence to ratings, helps maintain braking, steering, and stability when towing 5,000 pounds or more.
What to consider beyond rating
Beyond the raw towing number, consider real-world factors such as braking distance, acceleration with a load, fuel economy, and how the trailer affects ride quality. If you plan frequent heavy towing, test the setup on a safe course, and consult a Lexus dealer for recommended gear and any model-year nuances.
Summary
For towing 5,000 pounds with a Lexus SUV, your practical options are the GX (up to about 6,500 pounds) and the LX (around 7,000 pounds with the right equipment). The RX and NX do not meet this threshold. Always verify the exact rating for your year and trim, ensure the proper towing package is installed, and follow all safety guidelines and legal requirements when towing heavy loads.
How many pounds can a Lexus RX 350 tow?
The towing capacity for a Lexus RX 350 is 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the required towing package. This capacity is consistent across various model years, allowing you to tow items like a small utility trailer, a teardrop trailer, or a small fishing boat.
- Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped).
- Towing package: The Towing Prep Package is required to achieve this maximum capacity.
- What it can tow: The 3,500-pound limit is suitable for smaller loads such as a small utility trailer, a light pop-up camper, a teardrop trailer, or a lightweight boat and trailer.
- Important consideration: Always ensure the combined weight of the trailer and its cargo does not exceed the 3,500-pound limit.
Which one is bigger, Lexus TX or GX?
Is the Lexus GX Larger than the TX? While the 2025 Lexus GX is taller and wider, the TX is longer and designed with a longer wheelbase.
What 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 best Lexus for towing?
The best Lexus for towing is the Lexus LX, with a maximum capacity of 8,000 lbs. The Lexus GX is also a strong contender, offering a towing capacity of up to 9,063 lbs for the 2025 GX550 model. For those with less demanding towing needs, the Lexus RX can tow up to 3,500 lbs with the proper package.
You can watch this video to see the Lexus GX 550's towing capabilities: 1mBig Truck Big RVYouTube · Mar 17, 2025
Highest towing capacity
- Lexus GX 550: Up to 9,063 lbs.
- This model features a body-on-frame construction, twin-turbo V6 engine, and standard four-wheel drive, making it highly capable for towing and off-roading.
- Lexus LX: Up to 8,000 lbs.
- The LX is another excellent choice, offering a high towing capacity and features like Trailer Sway Control and full-time four-wheel drive.
This video discusses the Lexus GX550's payload and capacity in comparison to a pickup truck: 1mBig Truck Big RVYouTube · Mar 24, 2025
Other Lexus models
- Lexus RX: Up to 3,500 lbs (with Towing Prep Package).
- Suitable for smaller loads like a utility trailer or a small personal watercraft.
- Lexus NX: 2,000 lbs.
- Designed for smaller towing needs, such as a small utility trailer or a personal watercraft.
