2017 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity & Payload Guide

The 2017 Toyota Highlander can tow between 1,500 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the engine, drivetrain, and whether it is equipped with the factory tow package. When properly equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and the factory Tow Prep Package, this family-hauling midsize SUV boasts a highly capable 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity, making it perfect for pulling small boats, utility trailers, or pop-up campers.

Quick answer

Here are the essential towing and payload specifications for the 2017 Toyota Highlander:

• Max Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs (3.5L V6 with Tow Prep Package)
• Max Payload: 1,350 to 1,600 lbs (varies significantly by trim and drivetrain)
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 5,840 to 6,000 lbs
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): Up to 9,980 lbs (V6 models)
• Curb Weight: 4,134 lbs (Base 4-cylinder FWD) to 4,861 lbs (Hybrid Limited AWD)
• Hitch Class: Class III (when utilizing the 5,000-lb limit) with a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs (10% of max tow).

Note: Always verify your specific vehicle's ratings on the driver's side door-jamb sticker, as optional equipment reduces payload and towing capacity.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

Toyota adopted the SAE J2807 towing standard well before 2017, meaning these ratings are rigorously tested for real-world acceleration, braking, and handling under load. If your Highlander has a V6, the Tow Prep Package was standard on most trims for the 2017 model year, but always check your build sheet.

*Payload numbers are estimates based on standard trim weights. Refer to your door-jamb sticker for the exact payload capacity of your specific vehicle.

Tow package contents

To achieve the 5,000-pound towing capacity, the 2017 Highlander must have the 3.5L V6 and the Tow Prep Package. For 2017, Toyota made this package standard on all V6 models, ensuring you have the mechanical foundation needed to tow. The factory Tow Prep Package includes:

• Heavy-duty radiator: Upgraded to keep engine temperatures in check under heavy loads.
• Engine oil cooler: Prevents thermal breakdown of engine oil while pulling uphill.
• 200-watt fan coupling: Improves airflow through the radiator at lower speeds.
• 150-amp alternator: Supplies additional electrical power for trailer lights and accessories.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): Integrated into the Highlander’s electronic stability control system, TSC automatically applies brake pressure at individual wheels and manages engine torque to help keep the trailer in line.

What’s missing? The Highlander does not come from the factory with a hitch receiver, a 7-pin wiring harness, or an integrated trailer brake controller. You will need to add a Class III hitch receiver, the appropriate wiring harness (4-pin for light loads, 7-pin if your trailer has brakes), and an aftermarket brake controller if you intend to tow a trailer with electric brakes.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Because the 2017 Toyota Highlander is a unibody crossover SUV, it is entirely incompatible with 5th-wheel or gooseneck hitches. These types of hitches are strictly reserved for heavy-duty pickup trucks (and some half-ton trucks). For the Highlander, you are limited strictly to a conventional bumper-pull receiver hitch.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For conventional towing, the 2017 Highlander is quite capable, but Toyota has specific guidelines regarding Weight Distribution Hitches (WDH).

When towing loads approaching the 5,000-pound maximum, the rear suspension can squat, reducing weight on the front steering axle. Toyota generally recommends using a sway control device for trailers weighing over 2,000 pounds, and a weight-distributing hitch is highly recommended (and sometimes required by state law) when your trailer weight exceeds 50% of the Highlander's curb weight (anything over roughly 2,200 to 2,400 lbs). Always consult the towing section of your owner's manual to ensure your hitch setup complies with Toyota's safety standards.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Mind the Tongue Weight: The Highlander's maximum tongue weight is 500 lbs for V6 models (150 lbs for 4-cylinder; 350 lbs for Hybrid). If you load your trailer too heavy in the front, you will easily exceed this limit and dangerously overload the rear axle.
• Watch Your Payload: Remember that the tongue weight of your trailer counts against your Highlander’s total payload. If you have 500 lbs of tongue weight and a max payload of 1,430 lbs, you only have 930 lbs left for passengers and cargo inside the SUV.
• Use the Transmission Wisely: When towing heavy loads, especially on inclines, use the sequential shift mode to lock out the higher overdrive gears. This prevents the transmission from "hunting" between gears, reducing transmission heat and wear.

Common towing-related issues

While the 2017 Highlander is highly reliable, towing puts extra strain on the vehicle. Keep an eye out for:

• Rear Suspension Sag: The Highlander’s independent rear suspension is tuned for passenger comfort, not heavy hauling. Severe squat can lead to poor steering response and uneven tire wear.
• Brake Wear: If you tow near the 5,000-lb limit without trailer brakes, your Highlander’s brake pads and rotors will wear out prematurely. Always use trailer brakes for heavy loads.
• Transmission Fluid Degradation: Even with the Tow Prep Package's coolers, towing accelerates the degradation of transmission fluid. If you tow frequently, you should replace your transmission fluid well before the standard maintenance interval.

Make sure your Toyota Highlander is fully prepped for the towing season. Check your brakes, fluid levels, and suspension before hitting the road. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.