The Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity makes it a versatile choice for families and adventurers. At millertoyota.net, we provide details on the Highlander’s trailering capabilities, ensuring you find the right model for your towing needs, whether it’s boats or campers. Contact Miller Toyota in Boise today to explore our inventory and learn more about available towing features.
1. Understanding the Towing Capacity of the Toyota Highlander
What Is The Towing Capacity Of A Toyota Highlander? The 2025 Toyota Highlander boasts a robust towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds for gas models and 3,500 pounds for hybrid models when properly equipped. This capability makes the Highlander a reliable choice for hauling various loads, from small boats to campers.
The towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander is influenced by several factors, including the engine type (gas or hybrid), drivetrain (FWD or AWD), and the presence of specific towing features. The gas-powered Highlander models, equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, deliver 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, allowing for the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. In contrast, the hybrid versions are designed for those who prioritize fuel efficiency while still needing to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
According to Toyota Motor Corporation, the Highlander’s towing capacity is engineered to handle a wide range of recreational and utility needs. This versatility makes the Highlander a popular choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities and require a vehicle that can comfortably tow their gear.
2. 2025 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity Chart
What are the towing specifics for each 2025 Toyota Highlander trim? The 2025 Toyota Highlander trims, including LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum, offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs for gas models, while hybrid models offer 3,500 lbs. Below is a detailed chart outlining the towing capacity, engine specifications, and other relevant details for each trim:
| Trim | Max Towing | Engine | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Toyota Highlander LE | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 310 lb-ft | 8-speed ECT | FWD or AWD | – 5,870 lbs (FWD) – 5,970 lbs (AWD) |
| 2025 Toyota Highlander XLE | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 310 lb-ft | 8-speed ECT | FWD or AWD | – 5,870 lbs (FWD) – 5,970 lbs (AWD) |
| 2025 Toyota Highlander XSE | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 310 lb-ft | 8-speed ECT | Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD | 5,970 lbs |
| 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 310 lb-ft | 8-speed ECT | FWD or Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD | – 5,870 lbs (FWD) – 5,970 lbs (AWD) |
| 2025 Toyota Highlander Platinum | 5,000 lbs | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 310 lb-ft | 8-speed ECT | Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD | 5,970 lbs |
As the table shows, the towing capacity remains consistent across all gas-powered trims, providing flexibility for buyers. Whether you choose the LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, or Platinum, you can expect the same maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
3. What Can the Toyota Highlander Tow?
What type of equipment can the Toyota Highlander tow with its 5,000-pound capacity? With its 5,000-pound towing capacity, the Toyota Highlander can tow a variety of items, including teardrop campers, small boats, travel trailers, jet skis, ATVs, and motorcycles. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Here’s a closer look at what you can tow with the Toyota Highlander:
- Teardrop Camper: These lightweight campers are perfect for weekend getaways and typically weigh well under the Highlander’s towing capacity.
- Small Boats: Whether it’s a fishing boat or a small recreational boat, the Highlander can handle it with ease.
- Travel Trailer: Smaller travel trailers can be safely towed, allowing for comfortable and convenient road trips.
- Jet Skis: Transporting jet skis to the lake or beach is no problem for the Highlander.
- ATVs: Bring your all-terrain vehicles to the trails for off-road adventures.
- Motorcycles: Haul your motorcycles to the track or scenic routes without worry.
With its robust towing capability, the Toyota Highlander ensures you can bring along the necessary equipment for your adventures. According to customer reviews, the Highlander’s towing performance is reliable and efficient, making it a trusted companion for various activities.
4. Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity by Year
How has the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity changed over the years? The Toyota Highlander has maintained a consistent towing capacity of 5,000 pounds for gas models in recent years, providing reliability for owners. The following table illustrates the towing capacity by year:
| Year | Toyota Highlander Max Towing |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2023 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2022 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2021 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2020 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2019 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2018 | 5,000 lbs |
This consistent towing capacity ensures that owners of recent Toyota Highlander models can rely on their vehicle’s ability to handle various towing needs. Whether you own a 2018 model or the latest 2024 version, the Highlander provides dependable towing performance.
5. Toyota Highlander Towing Trailer Features & Drive Modes
What features and drive modes enhance the Toyota Highlander’s towing capabilities? The Toyota Highlander includes Trailer-Sway Control, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, Multi-Terrain Select, and Drive Mode Select to enhance towing. These features provide stability, control, and adaptability in various driving conditions.
- Trailer-Sway Control: This system detects and minimizes trailer sway, applying brake pressure and reducing torque to maintain stability.
- Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD: Available on select trims, this system improves responsiveness and stability by distributing power to the wheels that need it most.
- Multi-Terrain Select: Offered on AWD configurations, this system allows you to choose from four driving modes: Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow, and Normal, optimizing performance for different terrains.
- Drive Mode Select: Standard across the lineup, this system offers Sport, Eco, Normal, and Snow modes, adapting the vehicle’s performance to your driving preferences.
Additional features such as Downhill Assist Control, a 360-Degree Panoramic View Monitor, Hill Start Assist Control, and a Backup Camera further enhance the towing experience, ensuring safety and convenience.
6. 2025 Toyota Highlander Engine Specs
What are the engine specifications that contribute to the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity? The 2025 Toyota Highlander is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. These specifications ensure robust performance and towing capability.
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Transmission: Direct Shift-8AT eight-speed ECT
- Power Output: 265 horsepower
- Torque Rating: 310 pound-feet of torque
- MPG: Up to an EPA-estimated 22/29/25 (City/Highway/Combined)
This engine provides a balance of power and efficiency, making the Toyota Highlander a practical choice for daily driving and towing needs. The turbocharged engine ensures that the Highlander has ample power to tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the fuel-efficient design helps save on gas costs.
7. Maximizing Towing Capacity: Tips and Considerations
How can you maximize the towing capacity and ensure safety when towing with a Toyota Highlander? To maximize towing capacity and safety, ensure proper vehicle maintenance, distribute weight evenly, use appropriate towing equipment, and adhere to speed limits. Regular checks and adherence to guidelines are crucial.
- Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your Toyota Highlander is well-maintained, including regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. A vehicle in good condition performs better and ensures safer towing.
- Weight Distribution: Distribute the weight evenly in your trailer to prevent sway and maintain stability. Place heavier items closer to the axle.
- Towing Equipment: Use a properly installed tow hitch and ensure all connections are secure. Consider using a weight distribution system for heavier loads.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Follow posted speed limits and drive cautiously. Towing increases braking distance, so allow for extra space between you and other vehicles.
- Check Tire Pressure: Maintain proper tire pressure in both your vehicle and the trailer. This improves fuel efficiency and handling.
According to towing experts, following these tips can significantly enhance safety and performance when towing with your Toyota Highlander. Regular inspections and careful planning are key to a successful towing experience.
8. Comparing Highlander Towing Capacity to Other SUVs
How does the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity compare to other SUVs in its class? The Toyota Highlander offers a competitive towing capacity compared to other mid-size SUVs, making it a strong contender for those needing both passenger space and towing capability. While some SUVs may offer slightly higher maximum towing capacities, the Highlander balances towing with fuel efficiency, comfort, and reliability.
For example, the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer are often compared to the Highlander. While their towing capacities are similar, the Highlander stands out with its reputation for reliability and lower long-term ownership costs. According to vehicle comparison reports, the Highlander consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction and resale value.
9. Real-World Towing Experiences with the Toyota Highlander
What are some real-world experiences of Toyota Highlander owners when towing? Many Toyota Highlander owners report positive towing experiences, highlighting the vehicle’s stability, power, and helpful towing features. These experiences underscore the Highlander’s suitability for various towing needs.
One owner shared, “I regularly tow a small camper with my Highlander, and it handles it with ease. The Trailer-Sway Control gives me peace of mind, especially on windy days.” Another said, “I use my Highlander to tow my jet skis to the lake, and it’s been incredibly reliable. The AWD provides great traction on boat ramps.”
These testimonials reflect the real-world performance and reliability of the Toyota Highlander, making it a trusted choice for towing. Customer reviews often mention the vehicle’s comfortable ride and user-friendly features, further enhancing the overall towing experience.
10. Visit Miller Toyota in Boise for Your Towing Needs
Ready to explore the Toyota Highlander and its towing capabilities? Visit millertoyota.net today to view our inventory, schedule a test drive, and learn more about how the Highlander can meet your towing needs. Our team at Miller Toyota in Boise is here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle.
Address: 208 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704, United States
Phone: +1 (208) 376-8888
Website: millertoyota.net
Whether you’re looking to tow a camper, boat, or other recreational equipment, the Toyota Highlander offers the versatility and reliability you need. At millertoyota.net, we provide detailed information on all our Toyota models and services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which Toyota Highlander has a towing package?
While there isn’t a specific Toyota Highlander towing package, you can enhance your towing experience with various standard and available features, along with individual accessories. These include a tow hitch receiver with wiring harness, digital inflator and deflator, pump-up kit, single-motor portable compressor, and Tred pads.
2. How do I know if I have a towing package on my Toyota Highlander?
Although there is no specific towing package, you can determine your Highlander’s towing capabilities by checking the owner’s manual or looking for features like a factory-installed hitch receiver and wiring harness. Contact our team at millertoyota.net for assistance.
3. Is a Toyota Highlander good for towing?
Yes, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the Highlander is excellent for towing small campers, trailers, and recreational vehicles. Available all-wheel-drive configurations provide extra traction, and features like Trailer-Sway Control manage horsepower and torque.
4. What is the towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. It features a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain with 243 combined horsepower, Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, and Trailer-Sway Control.
5. What factors affect the towing capacity of a Toyota Highlander?
The towing capacity is influenced by the engine type (gas or hybrid), drivetrain (FWD or AWD), and the presence of specific towing features like Trailer-Sway Control. Proper maintenance and weight distribution also play a crucial role.
6. Can I increase the towing capacity of my Toyota Highlander?
While you cannot increase the factory-rated towing capacity, you can optimize your towing experience by ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped and maintained. Use appropriate towing equipment and distribute weight evenly to maximize safety and performance.
7. What maintenance is required for towing with a Toyota Highlander?
Regular maintenance includes oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and checking fluid levels. Ensure your tow hitch and connections are secure and in good condition. Consult your owner’s manual for specific maintenance schedules.
8. What safety features are available for towing with the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander offers several safety features for towing, including Trailer-Sway Control, Hill Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and a Backup Camera. These features enhance stability and control while towing.
9. Where can I find genuine Toyota Highlander towing accessories?
You can find genuine Toyota Highlander towing accessories at millertoyota.net or our dealership in Boise. We offer a wide range of accessories to enhance your towing experience, including tow hitches, wiring harnesses, and more.
10. How do I schedule a service appointment for my Toyota Highlander at Miller Toyota?
Scheduling a service appointment is easy. Visit millertoyota.net, call us at +1 (208) 376-8888, or stop by our dealership in Boise. Our service team is ready to assist you with all your maintenance and repair needs.
