2022 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2022 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,685 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 6,000 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 9,000 lbs
• Curb Weight: 4,145 - 4,595 lbs
• Hitch Class: Class III (requires Toyota tow hitch receiver and wiring harness)
• Max Tongue Weight: 500 lbs

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

All 2022 Toyota Highlander models, regardless of engine or drivetrain, share the same maximum towing capacity when equipped with the factory tow package.

Note: Payload capacity can vary based on trim level and added options. Always refer to the specific vehicle's door jamb sticker for the most accurate payload information.

Tow Package Contents

For 2022 Toyota Highlander models equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine, the factory tow package is standard and includes important components to ensure safe and capable towing. For the Highlander Hybrid, a towing package is also available which increases the towing capacity from 1,500 pounds to 3,500 pounds.

Key components often found in the Highlander's tow package (or integrated into its design for towing capability) include:

• Heavy-duty radiator with engine oil cooler: Helps maintain optimal engine temperature when under load, preventing overheating.
• 150-amp alternator: Provides sufficient electrical power for the vehicle and any trailer accessories.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): An advanced safety feature that works with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system to detect and counteract trailer sway, helping the driver maintain control. This is particularly useful when encountering crosswinds or uneven roads.
• Integrated wired trailer-light connector: Provides the necessary electrical connection for trailer lights (brake, turn signals, running lights). While a 7-pin connector is typical for trailers requiring brakes and auxiliary power, the Highlander often comes with a 4-pin flat connector as standard for basic trailer lighting, and the 7-pin connector is usually added with the full towing package.

It's important to note that an integrated trailer brake controller is not typically included as a factory option on the 2022 Toyota Highlander. If your trailer has electric brakes and a Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) over 2,000 lbs (or as per your state's regulations), an aftermarket trailer brake controller will be necessary.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck

The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV and is not designed for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. These types of hitches are typically reserved for heavy-duty pickup trucks and larger commercial vehicles due to the significant weight and structural demands they place on the vehicle chassis.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For a trailer weighing more than 50% of the Highlander's curb weight (which could be around 2,000-2,300 lbs, depending on the Highlander's trim), or if you experience noticeable sag in the rear of the vehicle or instability while towing, a Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) is highly recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the tongue weight of the trailer more evenly across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer, improving stability, braking, and steering control. It can also help restore proper ride height.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander's maximum tongue weight capacity is 500 lbs. If your trailer's tongue weight approaches or exceeds this limit, a WDH is essential to ensure safe towing.

Real-World Towing Tips for This Vehicle

• Check your tires: Ensure your Highlander's tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures for towing, which can be found in your owner's manual or on the tire placard. Also, inspect them for any wear or damage.
• Load your trailer properly: Distribute about 60% of the trailer's cargo weight in the front half of the trailer to achieve the recommended tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight for conventional trailers). Secure all cargo to prevent shifting.
• Practice driving: If you're new to towing, practice turns, braking, and backing up in a safe, open area before heading out on the road.
• Allow extra stopping distance: A loaded trailer significantly increases your stopping distance. Maintain greater following distances than usual.
• Use lower gears: When going downhill, shift into a lower gear to use engine braking, which helps control your speed and reduces wear on your service brakes. Similarly, when climbing steep grades, using a lower gear will help maintain power and prevent the transmission from constantly shifting.
• Monitor temperatures: Pay attention to your engine temperature gauge, especially on long climbs or hot days. While the Highlander's tow package includes additional cooling, excessive strain can still cause overheating.
• Perform pre-trip checks: Before each trip, check trailer lights, tire pressures on both the Highlander and the trailer, hitch connection, safety chains, and breakaway switch (if applicable).

Common Towing-Related Issues

• Overheating: While less common with the tow package, excessive loads, hot weather, or steep grades can still lead to the engine or transmission overheating. Monitor your temperature gauges.
• Excessive sway: Can be caused by improper trailer loading (too little tongue weight), high winds, or passing larger vehicles. Trailer Sway Control helps mitigate this, but proper loading is key.
• Reduced braking performance: The added weight of a trailer will increase your stopping distances. Ensure your trailer brakes are working correctly and consider an aftermarket brake controller for trailers with electric brakes.
• Rear-end sag: Without a WDH, heavy tongue weight can cause the rear of the Highlander to sag, adversely affecting steering, braking, and headlight aim. A WDH can correct this.
• Transmission wear: Constant heavy towing can put additional strain on the transmission. Regular transmission fluid changes according to your owner's manual are crucial.

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