Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity (by Engine & Year)
TL;DR
Highlander V6 models max out around 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) towing; Hybrid models are capped near 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg); four-cylinder models without a tow package are much lower, around 1,500 lbs (680 kg).
Toyota Highlander towing capacity by generation and engine
The Highlander's towing capacity depends heavily on engine and whether the factory tow package was installed. The V6 has consistently been the strongest tower across generations, the Hybrid sits in the middle, and base four-cylinder models without towing equipment are rated very low and are not really suited for trailers.
| Generation / years | Engine / configuration | Max towing (properly equipped) |
|---|---|---|
| 4th gen, 2020-present (XU70) | 3.5L V6, with tow package | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| 4th gen, 2020-present (XU70) | Hybrid (2.5L, FWD/AWD) | ~3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| 3rd gen, 2014-2019 (XU50) | 3.5L V6, with tow package | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| 3rd gen, 2014-2019 (XU50) | Hybrid | ~3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| 3rd gen, 2014-2019 (XU50) | 2.7L 4-cylinder, no tow package | ~1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| 2nd gen, 2008-2013 (XU40) | 3.5L V6, with tow package | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| 2nd gen, 2008-2013 (XU40) | Hybrid | ~3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| 2nd gen, 2008-2013 (XU40) | 2.7L 4-cylinder, no tow package | ~1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
These figures cover the generations we can state with confidence based on published Toyota towing guides. Because trim, drivetrain, and factory-installed options change the exact number, always verify your vehicle's actual rating on the tow rating/certification label (usually on the driver's door jamb or in the trailer towing section of the owner's manual) before hooking up a trailer.
Tongue weight guidance
As a general rule, tongue weight (the downward force the trailer coupler puts on the hitch) should run about 10 percent of the actual loaded trailer weight. For a Highlander towing at its 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) V6 maximum, that works out to roughly 500 lbs (227 kg) of tongue weight, and Toyota's published tongue weight limits for the model generally track close to that figure. Loading a trailer so the tongue weight falls well outside the 10-15 percent range (too light or too heavy) causes sway and unstable handling, so distribute cargo in the trailer to keep tongue weight in that window.
Hitch class and payload/GCWR interaction
A Highlander set up with the factory tow package is typically fitted with a Class III receiver hitch (2-inch square receiver), which is rated to handle the model's full towing range. Towing capacity is not independent of payload: both the trailer's tongue weight and everything you carry inside the Highlander (passengers, cargo, cargo-area accessories) count against the vehicle's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), which is the total allowable weight of the loaded Highlander plus the loaded trailer combined. Loading up the cabin with people and gear reduces how much trailer weight you can safely add, even if the trailer itself is under the towing capacity number.
Trailer brakes and what a tow package adds
Whether your trailer legally needs its own brakes depends on where you live: some regions require trailer brakes above roughly 1,000-1,500 lbs (450-680 kg), others only above 3,000 lbs (1,360 kg) or more, so check your local or state/provincial regulations rather than assuming a single threshold. The factory Toyota tow package on the Highlander typically adds a pre-wired trailer wiring harness (4-pin or 7-pin depending on market), a Class III hitch receiver, and often an upgraded engine oil cooler and/or transmission cooler on V6 models to handle the extra heat load of towing.
Summary
| Max towing, V6 (2008-present, tow package) | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
|---|---|
| Max towing, Hybrid (2008-present) | ~3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Max towing, 4-cylinder without tow package | ~1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Typical max tongue weight (10% rule, V6 max) | ~500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Factory hitch class (with tow package) | Class III receiver (2 in.) |
| Trailer brake requirement | Varies by region - check local law |
| Tow package typically adds | Hitch receiver, wiring harness, oil/trans cooler |
Full diagnostics
For the complete step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide, see Toyota Highlander: Common Problems, Fault Codes & Repairs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander?
The current (2020-present) Toyota Highlander tows up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with the V6 engine and factory tow package, or about 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) for Hybrid models. Earlier generations back to 2008 follow the same general split between V6, Hybrid, and four-cylinder trims.
Can a four-cylinder Highlander tow a trailer?
Yes, but the rating is much lower, around 1,500 lbs (680 kg), and that is really only suitable for a small utility trailer or lightweight cargo, not a camper or boat. For serious towing, the V6 with the factory tow package is the better choice.
How much tongue weight can a Toyota Highlander handle?
As a rule of thumb, tongue weight should be about 10 percent of the loaded trailer's weight, which works out to roughly 500 lbs (227 kg) for a Highlander towing at its 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) V6 maximum. Always check the owner's manual or the hitch/trailer plate for the exact tongue weight limit for your specific vehicle.
Does the Toyota Highlander come with a tow hitch installed?
Not always as standard equipment; many trims require the factory tow package to be added, which typically includes a Class III hitch receiver, a pre-wired trailer harness, and additional cooling for the engine and transmission on V6 models. Confirm what your specific trim year includes before assuming a hitch is already fitted.