2024 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2024 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,715 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 5,900 – 6,000 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 10,600 lbs
• Curb Weight: 4,330 – 4,550 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Hitch Class: Class III
• Max Tongue Weight: 500 lbs

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2024 Toyota Highlander offers two powertrain options, each with specific towing capabilities. The standard 2.4L turbocharged engine provides a consistent 5,000-pound towing capacity across all its trims, while the Hybrid powertrain offers a lower capacity.

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

Tow package contents

For the 2024 Toyota Highlander, a dedicated tow package is not offered in the traditional sense with specific components like a transmission cooler or integrated brake controller often seen in heavy-duty trucks. Instead, certain features that aid in towing are standard or come as part of higher trim levels:

• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): This system is standard on all 2024 Highlander models and is designed to detect and help counteract trailer sway, providing more stable towing. It works with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system.
• Heavy-Duty Radiator with Engine Oil Cooler: While not explicitly called a "transmission cooler," the 2.4L turbocharged engine (which provides the 5,000 lb towing capacity) comes with a heavy-duty radiator and an engine oil cooler, which helps manage temperatures during demanding operations like towing. The hybrid models feature a robust cooling system tailored to their powertrain.
• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: An integrated trailer brake controller is not available as a factory option on the 2024 Toyota Highlander. For trailers equipped with electric brakes, an aftermarket trailer brake controller will be required.
• Wiring Harness: The Highlander typically comes with a standard 4-pin and 7-pin connector behind the rear bumper, allowing for easy connection to most trailers for lighting and, with the 7-pin, charging and electric brakes (when an aftermarket controller is installed).
• Hitch Receiver: A factory-installed Class III hitch receiver is often an optional accessory or part of certain packages/trims. If not factory installed, it can be added as a dealer-installed accessory.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2024 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 requirements they impose. Attempting to tow a 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailer with a Highlander could lead to severe vehicle damage and unsafe driving conditions.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For trailers approaching the Highlander's maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, or for trailers with a significant tongue weight, a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is highly recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the trailer