2019 Honda CR-V Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2019 Honda CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick answer

• Max towing capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Max payload: 850 - 1,137 lbs (varies by trim and drivetrain)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 4,211 - 4,497 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 5,711 - 5,997 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,307 - 3,497 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class I (200 lbs tongue weight capacity)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2019 Honda CR-V offers two engine options, but its towing capacity remains consistent at 1,500 pounds across all trims and drivetrains. The primary factor influencing payload capacity is the trim level and whether it's equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).

Note: Payload capacities can vary based on specific options and accessories. Always check your vehicle's door jamb sticker for the most accurate information.

Tow package contents

Unlike many larger SUVs and trucks, the 2019 Honda CR-V does not offer a dedicated factory "tow package" with enhanced towing components. The 1,500-pound towing capacity is inherent to the vehicle's design. However, an essential accessory for towing is the Honda trailer hitch, which is available as a dealer-installed option. This hitch is a Class I receiver, meaning it's rated for up to 200 pounds of tongue weight.

For safe towing, you will need to acquire aftermarket components, as the CR-V does not come with:

• Transmission cooler: The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed for efficiency and general driving. While capable of handling a 1,500-pound trailer, prolonged towing, especially in hot conditions or hilly terrain, can increase transmission fluid temperatures. An aftermarket transmission cooler can help maintain optimal fluid temperatures and prolong the life of the transmission.
• Integrated brake controller: If your trailer has electric brakes, an aftermarket trailer brake controller is essential for safe operation. This device allows you to control the trailer's brakes independently from the vehicle's brakes.
• Trailer sway control: While modern vehicles often have electronic stability control systems that can help mitigate trailer sway, a dedicated trailer sway control system, often integrated into a weight distribution hitch, can provide additional stability, particularly when towing at highway speeds or in windy conditions.
• 7-pin connector: The Honda accessory hitch typically provides a 4-pin wiring harness for basic trailer lights (tail, brake, turn signals). If your trailer requires electric brakes or has an onboard battery that needs charging, you will likely need an aftermarket 7-pin connector and adapter.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2019 Honda CR-V is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are reserved for heavy-duty trucks and require significantly higher towing and payload capacities than the CR-V offers.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For a trailer with a Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) of 1,500 pounds and a tongue weight of up to 200 pounds, a weight distribution hitch (WDH) is generally not required for the 2019 Honda CR-V. However, if you find that your vehicle's rear sags significantly or you experience instability, a properly set up WDH can help distribute the tongue weight more evenly across the vehicle's axles, improving handling and braking performance. Always consult your hitch manufacturer's recommendations for WDH usage.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Stay within limits: Always adhere to the 1,500-pound maximum towing capacity and the 200-pound maximum tongue weight. Exceeding these limits can compromise safety, damage your vehicle, and void warranties.
• Check tire pressure: Ensure both your CR-V's tires and the trailer's tires are inflated to the manufacturer-recommended pressures for towing. This is crucial for stability and handling.
• Load distribution: Properly load your trailer to ensure about 10-15% of the total trailer weight is on the tongue. This helps prevent sway. Secure all cargo inside the trailer to prevent shifting during transit.
• Brake early: When towing, your stopping distance will increase. Anticipate stops and begin braking earlier than you would without a trailer.
• Increase following distance: Maintain a greater following distance to give yourself more time to react to traffic.
• Mind your speed: Reduce your speed, especially on highways, in strong winds, or on winding roads. Excessive speed with a trailer can lead to loss of control.
• Check lights: Before every trip, verify that all trailer lights (tail, brake, turn signals) are working correctly.
• Secure hitch connection: Double-check that the trailer is properly hitched, the safety chains are crossed and attached, and the wiring harness is connected.
• Avoid overdrive on long inclines: While the CR-V's CVT automatically adjusts, on long, steep inclines, it's generally good practice to allow the transmission to operate in a lower "gear" to prevent overheating.
• Regular maintenance: Ensure your CR-V is well-maintained, especially the brakes, tires, and transmission fluid, before towing.

Common towing-related issues

Given the CR-V's relatively modest towing capacity, most issues stem from exceeding its limits or improper setup.

• Overheating transmission: Prolonged towing, especially uphill or in hot weather, can stress the CVT. While the CR-V is designed to handle its rated capacity, an aftermarket transmission cooler can offer peace of mind.
• Reduced braking performance: The added weight of a trailer significantly increases stopping distances. If the trailer lacks its own brakes, the CR-V's brakes will experience increased wear.
• Trailer sway: Improperly loaded trailers, excessive speed, or strong crosswinds can cause trailer sway, which can be dangerous. Ensure proper tongue weight and consider aftermarket sway control if consistently experiencing issues.
• Sagging rear suspension: While the CR-V is designed for its rated tongue weight, a heavily loaded trailer can cause the rear suspension to sag. Airbags or helper springs can be installed to help level the vehicle.
• Hitch receiver issues: Ensure the aftermarket hitch receiver is properly installed and rated for the CR-V's capacity. Substandard installations can be dangerous.

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