Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity By Year – 2001 to 2024

If you’re in the market for a reliable SUV that can handle some serious towing, the Toyota Highlander might just be your perfect match.

Over the years, this popular vehicle has proven itself as a capable hauler for everything from small trailers to boats.

But here’s the thing – the Toyota Highlander towing capacity by year has changed quite a bit since it first hit the roads back in 2001.

Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new model or considering a used Highlander, knowing its towing capacity is super important.

After all, you don’t want to end up with a vehicle that can’t handle your towing needs, right? That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide covering the Highlander’s towing capacity from 2001 up to 2024.

Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity By Year

We’ll take you on a journey through each model year, breaking down the different engine options and how they affect towing power.

You’ll learn about the changes Toyota has made over time, like introducing more powerful engines or adding special towing packages.

Plus, we’ll throw in some handy tips about towing safely and getting the most out of your Highlander.

So, whether you’re planning to haul a camper for your next family vacation or you need to tow equipment for work, stick around.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be a Toyota Highlander towing expert, ready to pick the perfect year and model for your needs.

Let’s dive in and explore the towing capabilities of this versatile SUV!

2024 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2024 Toyota Highlander comes with some exciting updates in the engine department. Here’s what you need to know about its towing capacity:

• Engine: 2.4L L4 (T24A-FTS engine)
• Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs

This year’s model packs a punch with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s a bit of a change from previous years, but don’t let the smaller engine size fool you. This Highlander can still tow up to 5000 pounds, which is plenty for most people’s needs.

Some key points about the 2024 Highlander:

• The new engine produces 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
• It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission
• You can choose between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive

For those who prefer a more eco-friendly option, there’s also a hybrid version available. The hybrid models use a 2.5L inline-4 engine combined with electric motors.

While great for fuel economy, keep in mind that the hybrid’s towing capacity might be different from the gas-only model.

2023 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2023 Toyota Highlander keeps things consistent with its predecessor. Here’s the lowdown:

• Engine: 2.4L L4 (T24A-FTS engine)
• Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs

This model year marks the introduction of the new 2.4L turbocharged engine, replacing the older V6. Despite the change, Toyota managed to maintain the same impressive 5000-pound towing capacity.

Some highlights of the 2023 Highlander:

• The turbocharged engine offers better fuel efficiency than the old V6
• It still provides plenty of power for everyday driving and towing needs
• All trim levels come with the same towing capacity

Whether you’re looking at the base LE model or the top-of-the-line Platinum, you can count on that 5000-pound towing ability across the board.

2022 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2022 model year was the last to feature the V6 engine before Toyota made the switch to the turbocharged four-cylinder. Here’s what you need to know:

• Engine: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine)
• Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs

This V6 engine was a favorite among Highlander fans for its smooth power delivery and reliability. Key points about the 2022 Highlander’s towing capabilities:

• The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque
• All trim levels are rated for the same 5000-pound towing capacity
• Front-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option

If you’re considering a used Highlander and prefer a V6 engine, the 2022 model might be a great choice. It offers plenty of power for towing and everyday driving.

2021 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2021 Toyota Highlander carries over the same engine and towing specs from the previous year:

• Engine: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine)
• Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs

This model year continued to offer the reliable V6 engine that Highlander owners had come to love. Here are some important points:

• The towing capacity remains consistent across all trim levels
• You can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
• The V6 engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency

For those interested in the hybrid version, the 2021 Highlander Hybrid uses a 2.5L four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors. While it offers better fuel economy, its towing capacity is typically lower than the gas-only model.

2020 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2020 model year marked the beginning of a new generation for the Highlander, but it kept the familiar V6 engine:

• Engine: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine)
• Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs

This redesign brought a fresh look to the Highlander, but Toyota didn’t mess with the winning formula under the hood. Key points for the 2020 model:

• The new design improved aerodynamics and interior space
• Towing capacity remained steady at 5000 pounds
• Advanced safety features became standard across all trim levels

If you’re looking for a used Highlander with modern styling and proven towing capabilities, the 2020 model could be a great option.

2019 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2019 Highlander offered two engine options, each with different towing capacities:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs

This model year gave buyers a choice between power and efficiency. Here’s what you need to know:

• The V6 engine was the popular choice for those needing maximum towing capacity
• The four-cylinder engine offered better fuel economy but significantly less towing power
• All-wheel drive was available, but only with the V6 engine

If you’re considering a 2019 Highlander and plan to do any serious towing, the V6 model is the way to go.

2018 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2018 Highlander maintained the same engine options and towing capacities as the previous year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs

Key points for the 2018 model year:

• The V6 engine continued to be the go-to choice for towing
• The four-cylinder was only available on the base LE trim
• Toyota Safety Sense P became standard on all models, adding extra safety features

When looking at a 2018 Highlander, make sure to check which engine it has if towing capacity is important to you.

2017 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2017 model year saw some updates to the Highlander, but towing capacities remained the same:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2017 Highlander:

• The V6 engine got a slight power boost this year
• An eight-speed automatic transmission replaced the old six-speed in V6 models
• The four-cylinder engine was still available but only on the base LE trim

The 2017 model offers a good balance of modern features and proven towing capability, especially with the V6 engine.

2016 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2016 Highlander introduced a bit more complexity to its towing capabilities:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs

Key points for the 2016 model year:

• The tow package became crucial for maximizing the V6’s towing capacity
• Without the tow package, the V6 could only tow 2000 lbs – not much more than the four-cylinder
• The four-cylinder engine was still limited to the base LE trim

If you’re looking at a 2016 Highlander with the V6, make sure to check if it has the tow package installed.

2015 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2015 Highlander kept the same engine options and towing capacities as the previous year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2015 model:

• The tow package remained essential for maximum towing with the V6
• All-wheel drive was available on V6 models
• The four-cylinder engine was still limited in both availability and towing capacity

The 2015 Highlander offers similar capabilities to newer models, making it a good option for those looking for a used SUV with solid towing abilities.

2014 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2014 model year marked the beginning of a new generation for the Highlander, but towing capacities stayed largely the same:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs

Key points for the 2014 Highlander:

• The redesign brought a more modern look and improved interior
• Towing capabilities remained tied to engine choice and the presence of a tow package
• The four-cylinder engine was still available but with limited towing capacity

If you’re considering a 2014 Highlander and plan to tow, make sure to look for a V6 model with the tow package installed.

2013 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2013 Highlander offered slightly different towing capacities compared to later models:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2013 model year:

• The four-cylinder engine had better towing capacity with the tow package installed
• The V6 remained the best choice for serious towing needs
• All-wheel drive was available on V6 models

The 2013 Highlander offers decent towing capabilities, especially if you can find one with the tow package installed.

2012 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2012 Highlander maintained the same towing capacities as the previous year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Key points for the 2012 model:

• The tow package made a significant difference in towing capacity for both engines
• The V6 engine was available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
• The four-cylinder engine was only offered with front-wheel drive

When looking at a 2012 Highlander, check for the presence of a tow package to determine its true towing capacity.

2011 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2011 Highlander kept the same engine options and towing capacities as the previous year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2011 model year:

• The tow package continued to be crucial for maximizing the towing capacity
• The V6 engine offered the best performance and towing ability
• The four-cylinder engine provided better fuel economy but less power

The 2011 Highlander offers good towing capabilities, especially with the V6 engine and tow package.

2010 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2010 Highlander maintained the same towing capacities as the previous two years:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Key points for the 2010 model:

• The V6 engine remained the top choice for towing
• The four-cylinder engine offered decent towing capacity with the tow package
• All-wheel drive was available on V6 models

If you’re looking at a 2010 Highlander, remember that the tow package significantly increases towing capacity for both engine options.

2009 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2009 Highlander saw the introduction of the 2.7L four-cylinder engine, changing the towing capacity options:

• Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.7L L4 (1AR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2009 model year:

• This was the first year for the 2.7L four-cylinder engine in the Highlander
• The new four-cylinder offered better fuel economy and decent towing capacity with the tow package
• The V6 remained the best choice for those needing maximum towing ability

The 2009 Highlander offers a good balance of options, whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or towing capacity.

2008 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2008 model year marked the beginning of a new generation for the Highlander, with some changes to its towing capabilities:

• Engine: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 5000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs

Key points for the 2008 Highlander:

• This year saw the introduction of the more powerful 3.5L V6 engine
• The tow package became crucial for maximizing the towing capacity
• All-wheel drive was available as an option

The 2008 Highlander offered improved performance and towing capabilities compared to earlier models, making it a solid choice for those needing a capable SUV.

2007 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2007 Highlander was the last model year of its generation, offering two engine options:

• Engine Option 1: 3.3L V6 (2MZ-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2007 model year:

• The V6 engine offered decent towing capacity, especially with the tow package
• The four-cylinder engine provided a more fuel-efficient option with respectable towing ability
• This was the last year before a major redesign of the Highlander

The 2007 Highlander offers good towing capabilities for its age, particularly if equipped with the tow package.

2006 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2006 Highlander maintained the same engine options and towing capacities as the previous year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.3L V6 (2MZ-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Key points for the 2006 model:

• The tow package significantly increased the towing capacity for both engines
• The V6 engine offered the best performance and towing ability
• All-wheel drive was available as an option on V6 models

If you’re considering a 2006 Highlander, look for one with the tow package installed for maximum towing capability.

2005 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2005 Highlander kept the same engine options and towing capacities as the previous two years:

• Engine Option 1: 3.3L V6 (2MZ-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3500 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 2000 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • With Tow Package: 3000 lbs
  • Without Tow Package: 1500 lbs

Important notes for the 2005 model year:

• The V6 engine continued to be the best choice for those needing maximum towing capacity
• The four-cylinder engine offered a balance of fuel efficiency and decent towing ability
• The tow package remained an important factor in determining the towing capacity

The 2005 Highlander offers reliable towing capabilities, especially when equipped with the V6 engine and tow package.

2004 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2004 model year saw a slight change in the V6 engine, but towing capacities remained similar:

• Engine Option 1: 3.3L V6 (3MZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3000 lbs

Key points for the 2004 Highlander:

• This year introduced the slightly larger 3.3L V6 engine, replacing the previous 3.0L
• Towing capacities were standardized, with less emphasis on a separate tow package
• The four-cylinder engine continued to offer a good balance of efficiency and towing ability

The 2004 Highlander provides solid towing capabilities for its age, with the V6 engine being the top choice for those needing to tow heavier loads.

2003 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2003 Highlander maintained the same engine options and towing capacities as the previous year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3000 lbs

Important notes for the 2003 model year:

• The V6 engine offered the best performance and towing ability
• The four-cylinder engine provided a more fuel-efficient option with a respectable towing capacity
• All-wheel drive was available as an option on both engine types

For its time, the 2003 Highlander offered competitive towing capabilities in the midsize SUV segment.

2002 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2002 Highlander kept the same engine options and towing capacities as its debut year:

• Engine Option 1: 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3000 lbs

Key points for the 2002 model:

• Both engine options offered decent towing capabilities for a midsize SUV of this era
• The V6 engine provided more power and slightly higher towing capacity
• The four-cylinder engine balanced fuel efficiency with respectable towing ability

The 2002 Highlander continues to be a reliable choice for those needing moderate towing capacity in an older vehicle.

2001 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

The 2001 model year marked the debut of the Toyota Highlander, offering two engine options:

• Engine Option 1: 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs
• Engine Option 2: 2.4L L4 (2AZ-FE engine)
  • Towing Capacity: 3000 lbs

Important notes for the 2001 Highlander:

• In the first year of production, the Highlander introduced a new option in the midsize SUV market
• Both engine options offered competitive towing capacities for their time
• The Highlander provided a car-like ride with SUV versatility and towing ability

For its debut year, the 2001 Highlander set a solid foundation with its towing capabilities, which would evolve over subsequent generations.

FAQs:

• Q: Does the Toyota Highlander come with a tow hitch?

A: It depends on the model year and trim level. Many Highlanders, especially those with the tow package, come with a factory-installed tow hitch. However, it’s always best to check the specific vehicle you’re interested in.

• Q: Can I install a tow hitch on my Highlander if it didn’t come with one?

A: Yes, in most cases you can install an aftermarket tow hitch on a Highlander. However, this doesn’t increase the vehicle’s towing capacity. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for towing limits.

• Q: How does the Highlander Hybrid’s towing capacity compare to the gas-only model?

A: Typically, the Hybrid models have a lower towing capacity compared to their gas-only counterparts. For example, recent Highlander Hybrid models are often rated to tow around 3500 lbs, while gas models can tow up to 5000 lbs.

• Q: What’s included in the Toyota Highlander tow package?

A: The tow package usually includes a heavy-duty radiator, engine oil cooler, larger alternator, and sometimes upgraded suspension components. It may also include a tow hitch and wiring harness.

• Q: Can I tow more than the rated capacity if it’s just for a short distance?

A: It’s never recommended to exceed the manufacturer’s towing capacity, even for short distances. Doing so can be dangerous and may cause damage to your vehicle.

Conclusion:

The Toyota Highlander has come a long way since its introduction in 2001, consistently offering solid towing capabilities for a midsize SUV. Throughout its various generations, we’ve seen the Highlander adapt to changing consumer needs and technological advancements.

Key takeaways from our journey through the Toyota highlander towing capacity by year:

• Steady Improvement: From its initial 3500 lbs capacity with the V6 engine in 2001, the Highlander has increased its maximum towing capacity to 5000 lbs in more recent models.
• Engine Evolution: The Highlander has seen changes in its engine lineup, from the initial 3.0L V6 to the current 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder, always striving for a balance of power and efficiency.
• Importance of Tow Packages: In many model years, the presence of a tow package significantly impacts the vehicle’s towing capacity. Always check if a used Highlander has this package if towing is a priority for you.
• Hybrid Considerations: While hybrid models offer improved fuel efficiency, they typically have lower towing capacities compared to their gas-only counterparts.
• Consistent Performance: Regardless of the model year, the Highlander has maintained its reputation as a capable tower in the midsize SUV segment.

When choosing a Toyota Highlander for towing, consider your specific needs. If you frequently tow heavy loads, a newer V6 model or the latest turbocharged version with the tow package might be your best bet. For occasional, lighter towing, even older models or four-cylinder versions can serve you well.

Remember, safe towing isn’t just about capacity. Always ensure your vehicle is properly maintained, your load is securely attached, and you’re following all traffic laws and towing best practices.

The Toyota Highlander’s evolution in towing capacity reflects Toyota’s commitment to meeting diverse consumer needs. Whether you’re looking at a brand new model or considering a used Highlander from years past, you can count on this versatile SUV to handle your towing needs with confidence.