Which Toyota Highlander has the best towing capacity?
The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability, comfort, and versatility. One of the key considerations for many buyers is its towing capacity, especially for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other heavy loads. In this article, we’ll explore which Toyota Highlander model offers the best towing capacity and what makes it stand out.
Understanding Towing Capacity in the Toyota Highlander
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. For the Toyota Highlander, this capacity varies depending on the model year, engine type, and whether the vehicle is equipped with additional towing packages. Generally, the Highlander is available with two engine options: a standard 4-cylinder engine and a more powerful V6 engine. The V6 models typically offer higher towing capacities.
The Toyota Highlander Model with the Best Towing Capacity
As of the latest model years, the Toyota Highlander with the best towing capacity is the V6-powered model equipped with the optional towing package. This configuration allows the Highlander to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Here’s why this model stands out:
- Powerful V6 Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers ample horsepower and torque, making it capable of handling heavier loads with ease.
- Towing Package: The optional towing package includes a heavy-duty radiator, engine oil cooler, and improved cooling for the transmission, ensuring the vehicle can handle the added strain of towing.
- Advanced Safety Features: Toyota’s suite of safety features, such as Trailer Sway Control, helps maintain stability while towing, providing peace of mind for drivers.
Hybrid Models and Towing Capacity
For those interested in fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an excellent choice. However, it’s important to note that hybrid models typically have a lower towing capacity compared to their V6 counterparts. The Highlander Hybrid can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is sufficient for smaller trailers or lightweight loads but may not be ideal for heavier towing needs.
Tips for Safe Towing with Your Toyota Highlander
Regardless of which Highlander model you choose, following these tips can help ensure a safe and efficient towing experience:
- Always check the owner’s manual for specific towing guidelines and weight limits.
- Ensure your trailer is properly hitched and balanced to avoid sway or instability.
- Use the appropriate towing accessories, such as a weight-distributing hitch, if needed.
- Regularly inspect your vehicle’s brakes, tires, and lights before towing.
- Drive cautiously, maintaining a safe speed and allowing extra distance for braking.
Conclusion
If towing capacity is a top priority, the V6-powered Toyota Highlander with the optional towing package is your best bet, offering a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid provides a respectable towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. By understanding your towing needs and following safe towing practices, you can make the most of your Toyota Highlander’s capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander AWD?
5,000 pounds
The 2021 Highlander is powered by a standard 3.5L V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. All Trim Levels, including the L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited and Platinum, feature a 2021 Highlander towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
What is the Grand Highlander recall?
The recall saga began in May 2024 when the NHTSA conducted a crash test on a Toyota Grand Highlander and found a defect in the side curtain airbag. During the test, the front corner of the airbag failed to stay inside the vehicle when the driver's window was rolled down, raising concerns about occupant safety.
Which Toyota SUV has the most towing capacity?
2022 Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity
The Toyota Sequoia towing capacity is rated at a maximum of 7,400 pounds, which means bringing your toys along for the summer road trip is no problem.
Is the Toyota Highlander a full time AWD?
Highlander Hybrid
Every hybrid version of this Toyota has standard Electronic All-Wheel Drive. No matter how big your adventure gets, expect up to 3,500 lbs. of available towing capacity6 with this AWD SUV.
What is the most dependable Highlander?
Please note that we have ranked the following models based on most reliable to least reliable.
- 4 First Generation Toyota Highlander (2001-2007)
- 3 Second Generation Toyota Highlander (2008-2013)
- 2 Fourth Generation Toyota Highlander (2020-Present)
- 1 Third-Generation Toyota Highlander (2014-2019)
What is the towing capacity of the Highlander vs Grand Highlander?
If towing matters, the Grand Highlander's Hybrid Max powertrain delivers: Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds vs the Highlander's 3,500 pounds.
What is the best Highlander for towing?
XLE is the Highlander's highest trim level. Its V6 engine, along with the optional towing package, allows it to haul up to 5,000 pounds*. For comparison, the lowest trim level, LE, runs on a four-cylinder engine and has enough power to tow up to 1,500 pounds.
What is the towing capacity of the Highlander vs pilot?
It has 18.6-22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.5-60.1 behind the second, and 86.5-113.7 behind the first. The Toyota Highlander has 16 cubic feet, 48.4 cubic feet, and 84.3 cubic feet available, respectively. They have an equal towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Can a Toyota Highlander really tow 5000 lbs?
Yes, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the Highlander is a great SUV for towing small campers, trailers, and recreational vehicles like ATVs or Jet Skis.
Which tows better the Highlander or the pilot?
Winner: 2025 Toyota Highlander
While the Highlander can tow 5,000 pounds with any drivetrain, the Pilot requires all-wheel drive for maximum towing.
