Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity: Specs & Better 7 Info
Wondering about the Toyota Highlander’s towing limit? It can pull up to 5,000 pounds when set up right.
This midsize SUV is great for both families and those who love adventures. It fits up to eight people, covering both your need for space and power for hauling stuff.
We’re going to explore the Toyota Highlander’s towing details. We’ll look at its ability to tow, and give you all the info to understand its performance.
Get ready to see how different models stack up, review their specs, and check out features that make towing easier.
If you’re thinking about towing a camper, boat, or trailer, the Highlander is up for the job.
Keep reading to see how the Highlander can make your outings better. You’ll see it’s safe and efficient for any towing you’ve got planned.
What is Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity?
Towing capacity is how much weight your vehicle can pull safely. The Toyota Highlander’s limit changes depending on the model year, engine type, and drivetrain.
Knowing this will help you pick the right Highlander for your towing needs. The Toyota Highlander has strong engines made for towing.
Each year, different engines are available, affecting its towing capability. For example, V6 engines can tow more than four-cylinder ones.
Also, whether the Highlander is front-wheel or all-wheel drive changes its towing power. Knowing these details helps you find the best Highlander for your towing tasks.
With its advanced tech and comfort, the Highlander is great for towing things like trailers, boats, or other loads.
| Model Year | Engine Type | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 |
| 2022 | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 |
| 2023 | 2.4L 4-Cyl Turbo | 3,500 |
| 2023 | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 |
| 2024 | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 |
Overview of The 2025 Toyota Highlander
The 2025 Toyota Highlander is a top pick for both families and those who love being outdoors. It has lots of room inside for all passengers to sit comfortably.
Plus, its design is packed with practical features that fit many different needs. Underneath, there’s a 2.4-liter turbo engine with 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
This power means it can tow up to 5,000 pounds if you choose the gas model. If you prefer hybrids, the Highlander Hybrid can pull up to 3,500 pounds.
This makes it a great option among today’s SUVs. It’s also loaded with tech like Toyota Safety Sense for safer travels.
With its sleek design and advanced tech, the Highlander stands out in the crowded SUV market.
| Feature | Gas Model | Hybrid Model |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4-liter Turbocharged | 2.5-liter Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 243 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 175 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Safety Features | Toyota Safety Sense | Toyota Safety Sense |
Towing Capacity by Model Year
The Toyota Highlander has shown steady towing power over different years. Knowing the highlander towing capacity 2021 is crucial for buyers and owners who want the best towing experience.
Gas-powered Highlanders have kept a max towing of 5,000 pounds from 2021 to 2025. Meanwhile, hybrid models can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
We’ll look into towing capacities by year to help you make informed choices.
Max Towing Capacity Over The Years
| Model Year | Gas Model Towing Capacity | Hybrid Model Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| 2022 | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| 2023 | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| 2024 | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| 2025 | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
Comparison of 2021-2025 Models
From 2021 to 2025, the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacities remain constant. This reliability is key for those wanting a dependable vehicle.
Gas models offer greater towing power, perfect for those needing strength. Hybrid models, though, are great for saving fuel while still being able to tow.
2025 Toyota Highlander Towing Specs
The 2025 Toyota Highlander shines in the SUV category with its standout towing abilities. It has a strong tow rating for all its models.
This makes it great for anyone who needs to haul stuff. It handles various needs while being super functional for many users.
| Trim Level | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | Engine Type | Payload Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highlander L | 5,000 | 3.5L V6 | 1,490 |
| Highlander XLE | 5,000 | 3.5L V6 | 1,485 |
| Highlander Platinum | 5,000 | 3.5L V6 | 1,480 |
| Highlander Hybrid | 3,500 | 2.5L 4-Cylinder + Electric | 1,259 |
Across all models, the 2025 Toyota Highlander showcases Toyota’s focus on utility and strength.
Every version is built to handle tough towing jobs, for work or fun. It combines powerful engines with great fuel efficiency. This makes the Highlander a top choice.
Defining Highlander Towing Capabilities
The Toyota Highlander is known for its outstanding towing abilities, perfect for those who need dependability while travelling.
Its 2.4L engine delivers a powerful 265 horsepower. This makes it easy to pull trailers, boats, or campers safely.
This SUV also offers features to improve towing, like Trailer-Sway Control. This helps keep the car steady, especially in tough driving conditions.
It doesn’t just make driving smoother but also safer for everyone inside. Knowing the Highlander’s tow rating is key.
With different styles and options available, you’ll find one that fits your towing needs.
he Highlander is a reliable choice for daily use or adventurous trips, meeting all your towing demands.
Towing Specifics For Hybrid Models
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is known for its dual focus on efficiency and towing. To really know if it’s right for you, you need to dive into its specs. This is especially true when it comes to towing stuff.
Specifications of The Highlander Hybrid
The Highlander Hybrid boasts a 2.5L engine. It can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This makes it great for lighter towing needs.
It’s also a champ in saving fuel, with an EPA estimate of 35 mpg combined. These features make it attractive for those who love the planet.
Comparison with Gas-Powered Models
Comparing it with gas models shows some big differences. For heavier towing, the gas-powered Highlander is better, with a 5,000 pounds capacity.
Each model has its own strengths. So, it’s important to think about what you’ll be towing.
| Model | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Fuel Efficiency (mpg) |
|---|---|---|
| Highlander Hybrid | 3,500 | 35 |
| Highlander Gas | 5,000 | 24 |
Best Toyota SUV For Towing
The Toyota Highlander often comes up as the top pick for towing. It can pull up to 5,000 pounds, perfect for families looking to haul trailers or campers.
This SUV is not only roomy inside; it also has strong performance, making it a standout choice.
Its all-wheel drive (AWD) option is a big plus, providing better control and stability on different roads. This means you can tow heavy stuff with more confidence.
Even though the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma can tow more, they’re not midsize SUVs like the Highlander. This makes the Highlander especially unique in its category.
Features Enhancing Towing Experience
The Toyota Highlander is loaded with features that make towing easier and safer. These features help improve control, performance, and safety. So, you can handle various towing jobs confidently.
Trailer-Sway Control System
The trailer-sway control system helps keep the trailer stable, making your ride smoother. It detects swaying and uses the vehicle’s brakes to stay stable.
This system increases your control and confidence on the road.
Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD
The dynamic torque vectoring AWD improves grip and stability, particularly on tricky roads. It sends power to the wheels that need it most.
This stops skidding and keeps your trailer stable, even on rough terrain.
Multi-Terrain Select Capabilities
Multi-terrain select lets you adjust your drive to match the terrain. Whether it’s rocky or wet roads, this feature changes traction settings for the best performance.
It tweaks engine, transmission, and traction control settings to better your towing experience wherever you are.
| Feature | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Trailer-Sway Control | Automatically counters trailer sway by applying vehicle brakes. | Enhances stability and safety during towing. |
| Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD | Distributes power to wheels with optimal grip. | Improves traction and handling in challenging conditions. |
| Multi-Terrain Select | Adjusts settings based on driving conditions. | Optimizes performance across different terrains. |
What Can You Tow with The Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander stands out with its highlander towing capacity of 5,000 pounds for gas models. This makes it great for various fun activities.
- Small boats and jet skis
- Enclosed trailers
- Camping trailers
- Utility trailers for landscaping or hauling
- ATVs or dirt bikes
These towing possibilities mean the Highlander is a solid pick for adventures, whether on land or water.
It shows families and outdoor lovers the scope of adventures they can embark on.
Towing Packages and Accessories
The Toyota Highlander can be equipped with various towing accessories to boost its abilities. These accessories are key for the best towing performance.
Here are the options you can add:
- Tow Hitch Receiver: A class III receiver hitch is essential, ensuring compatibility with a variety of trailers.
- Wiring Harness: Installing a wiring harness allows for proper electrical connections between your Highlander and the trailer, enabling tail lights and brake signals to function seamlessly.
- Weight Distribution System: This system helps level out the towing vehicle and trailer, improving stability and control.
- Trailer Brake Controller: For trailers equipped with brakes, a brake controller can enhance safety and reduce wear on your vehicle’s brakes.
- Anti-Sway Kits: These kits can help prevent trailers from swaying during transit, providing a safer towing experience.
Adding these accessories can greatly improve your Highlander’s towing power. They ensure you have a safe and smooth towing journey.
Performance Specifications of The Highlander
The Toyota Highlander’s specs are key for its towing and daily driving. It has advanced engine tech, giving a strong yet efficient ride. This is perfect for city drives and adventures.
Engine Features and Output
The Highlander comes with a strong 2.4-liter turbo engine. It gives 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
These features mean it can carry heavy loads smoothly. It’s quick to respond, especially when towing or filled with gear.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance Ratings
The gas Highlander gets about 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. The hybrid version does even better with around 35 mpg combined.
This outstanding fuel efficiency means fewer gas station stops. It’s great for lengthy drives and towing.
Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity: A Comprehensive Analysis
An in-depth look at the Toyota Highlander’s towing ability proves it’s perfect for different drivers. The gas versions are great for heavy loads because they can tow more.
But the hybrid versions are about being green and still tow enough for most needs. This choice lets you pick what matters more: strength or helping the environment.
The Highlander has smart features to make towing safer and easier. Things like trailer sway control and better brakes help keep things stable.
These help you feel secure, whether on a holiday trip or hauling stuff for work. This SUV is not just strong but also adaptable.
You can tow everything from light gear to bigger trailers. This makes the Highlander a top choice in the midsize SUV class. It’s why many people find it a good option for their needs.
| Model | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Highlander | 5,000 | Gasoline |
| Hybrid Highlander | 3,500 | Hybrid |
Conclusion
The Toyota Highlander shines in towing, offering up to 5,000 pounds for gas engines and 3,500 pounds for hybrids
It meets the different needs of families and those who love the outdoors. The Toyota Highlander’s towing power is boosted by cool technology for a safer tow.
The Highlander leads with features like Trailer-Sway Control and Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD. These make it top in its category.
Besides towing, it offers a cozy inside and the newest in tech for everyday use. This shows the Highlander is great for power, efficiency, or if you need a versatile SUV.
FAQs
What is the towing capacity of the 2021 Toyota Highlander?
The 2021 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds with gas models. Hybrid models can tow 3,500 pounds.
How can I enhance the towing capabilities of my Toyota Highlander?
Add towing hitches, brake controllers, and extra cooling systems to boost your Highlander’s towing power.
What are the performance specs related to towing in the Toyota Highlander?
It has a 2.4-liter turbo engine with 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This power is great for pulling heavy stuff.
Is the Toyota Highlander the best SUV for towing?
Yes, with a 5,000-pound towing limit, the Toyota Highlander is great for trailers and campers.
What types of loads can I safely tow with my Highlander?
Your Highlander can pull small travel trailers, boat trailers, and RVs. But, it depends on the model and setup.
What towing features come standard on the Toyota Highlander?
Trailers stay steady with Trailer-Sway Control. Also, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD helps keep the drive smooth when towing.
How does the Highlander Hybrid’s towing capacity compare to gas models?
The Hybrid tows 3,500 pounds, less than the 5,000 pounds gas models can handle. It’s better on gas though.
What is the fuel efficiency of the Toyota Highlander while towing?
Towing, the gas Highlander gets around 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. The hybrid hits around 35 mpg combined.
