Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity from 2011 to 2023: Everything You Need to Know Now

If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV that can handle towing, the Toyota Highlander is a great option to consider. With a range of towing capacities depending on the configuration, the Highlander has been a popular choice for families and adventurers alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Toyota Highlander towing capacity and what you need to know before hitching up your trailer.

The Toyota Highlander has been around since 2001 and has undergone several updates and redesigns over the years. With each new model year, the towing capacity has fluctuated, so it’s important to know what you’re getting when you buy a Highlander. Additionally, the towing capacity can vary depending on the engine and trim level, so it’s essential to do your research before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll break down the towing capacity by year, engine specifics, and trim levels, so you can make an informed decision.

Whether you’re planning a family road trip or need to tow a boat or trailer, the Toyota Highlander has a range of towing capacities to suit your needs. From the early models to the most recent updates, the Highlander has been a reliable and versatile SUV for drivers who need a little extra towing power. Keep reading to learn more about the Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity and what you need to know before hitting the road.

Key Takeaways

• The Toyota Highlander has a range of towing capacities depending on the year, engine, and trim level.
• Before towing with a Highlander, it’s important to research the specific towing capacity of your vehicle and ensure that you have the appropriate towing equipment.
• The Highlander is a popular choice for families and adventurers who need a midsize SUV with towing capabilities.

Overview of Toyota Highlander

If you’re looking for a mid-size crossover SUV that can tow your boat or trailer, the Toyota Highlander is a great choice. This SUV has been around since 2001 and has consistently been a popular choice for families who need a vehicle with plenty of space and features.

The Toyota Highlander is a versatile vehicle that comes in both gas and hybrid versions. It has a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for larger families or those who like to travel with friends. The SUV has a sleek design and comes with plenty of features to make your ride comfortable and enjoyable.

One of the standout features of the Toyota Highlander is its towing capacity. Depending on the configuration, the vehicle can tow anywhere from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds. This makes it a great choice for those who need to tow a small boat or trailer.

The Toyota Highlander comes with a variety of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also has a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile SUV that can tow and has plenty of features. Whether you’re taking a road trip with the family or just need a vehicle for everyday use, the Toyota Highlander is a reliable and practical choice.

Towing Capacity by Year

If you’re considering purchasing a Toyota Highlander, it’s important to know its towing capacity. The towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander varies depending on the year and model you choose. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander by year.

2011-2015 Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander for the years 2011-2015 ranges from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds. The maximum towing capacity for these years is 5,000 pounds. The towing capacity depends on the engine and drivetrain options. For example, the 2015 Toyota Highlander with a 3.5L V6 engine and front-wheel drive has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

2016-2020 Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander for the years 2016-2020 ranges from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds. The maximum towing capacity for these years is 5,000 pounds. The towing capacity depends on the engine and drivetrain options. For example, the 2019 Toyota Highlander with a 3.5L V6 engine and front-wheel drive has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

2021-2023 Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander for the years 2021-2023 ranges from 3,500 to 5,000 pounds. The maximum towing capacity for these years is 5,000 pounds. The towing capacity depends on the engine and drivetrain options. For example, the 2023 Toyota Highlander with a 3.5L V6 engine and front-wheel drive has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

It’s important to note that the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander can vary depending on the specific model and configuration you choose. Be sure to check the owner’s manual or consult with a Toyota dealer to determine the towing capacity of the specific Toyota Highlander you are interested in.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a capable SUV that can handle towing a variety of loads. Whether you need to tow a small trailer or a larger boat, the Toyota Highlander has the towing capacity you need to get the job done.

Engine Specifics

If you’re looking to get the most out of your Toyota Highlander towing capacity, it’s important to understand the engine specifics. The Highlander has two engine options: gas and hybrid. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Gas Engine

The gas engine in the Toyota Highlander is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is capable of producing up to 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It has a six-speed automatic transmission and can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The gas engine is available in all trim levels of the Highlander.

Hybrid Engine

The hybrid engine in the Toyota Highlander is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. The total system output is 243 horsepower, and it has a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The hybrid engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The hybrid engine is available in all trim levels of the Highlander.

When it comes to engine size, the gas engine is larger than the hybrid engine. The gas engine is a V6, while the hybrid engine is a four-cylinder. The gas engine produces more horsepower and torque than the hybrid engine, but the hybrid engine is more fuel-efficient.

The gas engine has a horsepower of 295, while the hybrid engine has a system output of 243 horsepower. The gas engine has a torque of 263 lb-ft, while the hybrid engine has a torque of 175 lb-ft.

The gas engine has a maximum rpm of 6,600, while the hybrid engine has a maximum rpm of 4,500. The gas engine is more powerful and can handle heavier loads, while the hybrid engine is more fuel-efficient and better for city driving.

Overall, both the gas and hybrid engines in the Toyota Highlander have their own strengths and weaknesses. The gas engine is more powerful and can handle heavier loads, while the hybrid engine is more fuel-efficient and better for city driving.

Trim Levels and Towing Capacity

When it comes to the Toyota Highlander, there are several trim levels to choose from, each with its own towing capacity. Let’s take a closer look at each trim level and its corresponding towing capacity.

L and LE

The L and LE trim levels of the Toyota Highlander come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. These trim levels have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The L and LE models are great for those who want a reliable and affordable SUV that can tow a decent amount of weight.

XLE and XSE

The XLE and XSE trim levels of the Toyota Highlander also come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. These models have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The XLE and XSE models are a step up from the L and LE models, offering more features and a more luxurious interior.

Limited and Platinum

The Limited and Platinum trim levels of the Toyota Highlander come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. These models have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Limited and Platinum models are the most luxurious and feature-packed trim levels, making them perfect for those who want the most out of their SUV.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a capable SUV that can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Whether you choose the L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, or Platinum trim level, you can rest assured that you’ll have a reliable and capable vehicle that can handle your towing needs.

Towing Equipment

To tow anything with your Toyota Highlander, you will need some essential towing equipment. Here are the key components you will need to tow:

• Tow Package: A tow package is a set of features that your Highlander comes with to make towing easier. It usually includes a higher-capacity radiator, engine oil cooler, and a heavy-duty alternator. If your Highlander doesn’t come with a tow package, you can have one installed by your dealer or a third-party mechanic.
• Trailer Hitch: A trailer hitch is the part of your Highlander that connects to the trailer. It is usually mounted to the rear of the vehicle. There are several types of trailer hitches, including receiver hitches, fifth-wheel hitches, and gooseneck hitches. Make sure you choose the right hitch for your towing needs.
• Wiring Harness: A wiring harness is a set of wires that connect your Highlander’s electrical system to your trailer’s lights and brakes. It is essential to have a wiring harness that matches your trailer’s wiring. Your Highlander may come with a wiring harness if it has a tow package. If not, you can have one installed.
• Ball Mount: A ball mount is the part of your trailer hitch that holds the hitch ball. It is usually sold separately from the trailer hitch. Make sure you choose a ball mount that is the right size for your hitch ball and your trailer.
• Trailer: Of course, you will need a trailer to tow. There are many types of trailers, including utility trailers, boat trailers, and travel trailers. Make sure you choose a trailer that is the right size and weight for your Highlander’s towing capacity.
• Towing Package: A towing package is a set of features that includes a tow hitch, wiring harness, and other towing-related upgrades. It is usually an optional package that you can add to your Highlander when you buy it. If you plan to tow frequently, a towing package is a good investment.

Make sure you have all the necessary towing equipment before you hit the road. Towing can be dangerous if you don’t have the right equipment, so it’s essential to be prepared. With the right equipment, towing with your Highlander can be a breeze.

Safety Features for Towing

When towing with your Toyota Highlander, safety should always be a top priority. Fortunately, the Highlander comes equipped with several safety features to help ensure a safe and stress-free towing experience.

One of the most important safety features for towing is trailer sway control. This system helps to prevent your trailer from swaying back and forth while you’re driving, which can be dangerous and difficult to control. The Highlander’s trailer sway control system uses sensors to detect any sway and then applies the brakes to individual wheels to help keep the trailer stable.

Another important safety feature is the braking system. When towing heavy loads, it’s important to have a braking system that can handle the extra weight. The Highlander comes equipped with a powerful braking system that is designed to provide optimal stopping power even when towing at maximum capacity.

In addition to these features, the Highlander also comes with a range of other safety features that can help to keep you and your passengers safe while towing. These include:

• Blind Spot Monitor: This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spot and alerts you with a warning light on your side mirror.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This system helps to detect vehicles approaching from the side while you’re backing up and alerts you with a warning sound.
• Lane Departure Alert: This system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling.
• Pre-Collision System: This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if necessary to help avoid or mitigate a collision.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a safe and reliable vehicle for towing. With its advanced safety features and powerful braking system, you can tow with confidence knowing that you and your cargo are in good hands.

Vehicle Specifications

When it comes to the Toyota Highlander towing capacity, it’s important to consider the vehicle specifications. This will help you determine how much weight you can safely tow with your Highlander. Here are some of the key specifications you should keep in mind:

Dimensions

The dimensions of your Toyota Highlander can affect its towing capacity. Here are the dimensions of the 2023 Toyota Highlander:

• Length: 194.9 inches
• Width: 75.8 inches
• Height: 68.1 inches
• Ground Clearance: 8.0 inches

Drivetrain and Transmission

The drivetrain and transmission of your Toyota Highlander can also impact its towing capacity. Here are the drivetrain and transmission options for the 2023 Toyota Highlander:

• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD)
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Payload and Cargo Capacity

The payload and cargo capacity of your Toyota Highlander is another important factor to consider when towing. Here are the payload and cargo capacities for the 2023 Toyota Highlander:

• Curb weight: 4,165 to 4,595 pounds
• Payload capacity: 1,305 to 1,685 pounds
• Maximum payload: 1,685 pounds
• Cargo capacity: 16.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.3 cubic feet behind the first row.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a capable towing vehicle, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds depending on the configuration. By understanding the vehicle specifications, you can ensure that you are towing safely and within the limits of your vehicle.

Comparisons with Competitors

If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV with towing capacity, the Toyota Highlander is a popular choice. However, there are other competitors worth considering. Here’s a comparison of the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander with some of its top competitors:

• Toyota 4Runner: The 4Runner is a mid-size SUV that has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, which is the same as the Highlander.
• Volkswagen Atlas: The Atlas is a full-size SUV with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the V6 engine. However, the four-cylinder engine has a lower towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.
• Honda Pilot: The Pilot is another mid-size SUV that has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the towing package. This is the same as the Highlander.
• Used Cars: If you’re looking for a used SUV with towing capacity, there are many options available. Some popular choices include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada. However, keep in mind that the towing capacity of a used car may vary depending on the year, model, and condition.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a solid choice for a three-row SUV with towing capacity. However, if you need more towing capacity, the Toyota 4Runner or Volkswagen Atlas may be better options. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a similar towing capacity with a bit more space, the Honda Pilot is worth considering. Finally, if you’re open to buying a used car, there are many options available with varying towing capacities.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned about the towing capacity of the Toyota Highlander, you can make an informed decision on whether it is the right vehicle for your needs.

Keep in mind that the towing capacity varies depending on the configuration, with most recent model years having a 3,500 to 5,000 lb max tow capacity. The maximum towing capacity of the 2023 Toyota Highlander is 5,000 pounds (2,267 kg), but this can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.

If you plan on towing frequently or with a heavier load, it is important to choose a configuration that can handle the weight. You should also consider the payload capacity, which is the maximum weight the vehicle can carry in addition to the weight of the passengers and cargo.

It’s also important to note that towing capacity is not the only factor to consider when selecting a vehicle for towing. You should also consider the vehicle’s stability, braking power, and other features that can affect your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Overall, the Toyota Highlander is a reliable option for towing, with a range of configurations that can handle various towing needs. Just make sure to choose the right configuration for your needs and always follow safe towing practices.