Towing a travel trailer with a Toyota 4Runner is a popular choice for adventurers. This article shares a real-world experience towing a 17-foot travel trailer (17B) with a 2018 Toyota 4Runner (T4R), offering insights into performance, fuel economy, and overall suitability.
The towing setup includes a Prodigy P3 brake controller and Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) with sway control. A recent trip to Sequoia National Park from coastal California provided a challenging test, with the fully loaded trailer (including water and propane) and the 4Runner (with full fuel, two adults, two dogs, and gear) weighing in at a combined 8,760 pounds. This represents 78% of the 4Runner’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
The 4Runner performed admirably, navigating the journey from sea level to a campsite at 7,800 feet elevation without issue. Stability was excellent, even when encountering semi-trucks on two-lane highways. The ascent into the Sierras on steep inclines proved manageable, with the 4Runner exhibiting only minor hesitation from complete stops.
Fuel economy averaged 14 mpg while towing at speeds of 60-65 mph. While more power is always desirable, the 4Runner provided sufficient power, stability, and safety for towing the 17B. The mid-size nature of the 4Runner is also ideal for off-road exploration when not towing, offering maneuverability that larger vehicles lack.
This experience confirms that a properly equipped 17 Toyota 4runner can safely and effectively tow a 17-foot travel trailer. Staying within 80% to 90% of the manufacturer’s weight limits for axle, tongue, and gross weights contributes significantly to a positive towing experience.
