2025 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity & Payload
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The 2025 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 (varies by configuration)
- GVWR: 5,995 lbs (varies by configuration)
- GCWR: 10,995 lbs (varies by configuration)
- Approximate Curb Weight: 4,370 - 4,685 lbs (varies by configuration)
- Hitch Class: Class III (with 5,000-lb towing capacity)
- Max Tongue Weight: 500 lbs (typically 10% of max towing capacity)
Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim
The 2025 Toyota Highlander offers a single powertrain option capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. All Highlander models are equipped with a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
| Engine | Drivetrain | Trim/Package | Max Towing (lbs) | Payload (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Turbo I-4 | FWD | All | 5,000 | 1,515 - 1,605 |
| 2.4L Turbo I-4 | AWD | All | 5,000 | 1,535 - 1,685 |
Note: Payload capacity varies based on trim, drivetrain, and optional equipment. Always consult the specific vehicle's door-jamb sticker for exact payload information.
Tow Package Contents
The 2025 Toyota Highlander comes standard with many features that enhance its towing capability. While Toyota does not offer a distinct "tow package" as an optional extra like some heavy-duty trucks, the necessary equipment for its 5,000-pound rating is integrated into the vehicle's design.
Key towing-related features typically include:
- Trailer Sway Control (TSC): An advanced safety system that detects trailer sway and applies brake pressure to individual wheels and/or reduces engine torque to help stabilize the trailer.
- Heavy-duty radiator with engine oil cooler: Helps maintain optimal engine temperature during demanding towing conditions.
- Pre-wiring for trailer brake controller: While an integrated trailer brake controller is not typically standard, the Highlander usually comes pre-wired, simplifying the installation of an aftermarket unit for trailers equipped with electric brakes.
- Trailer-hitch receiver with 4-pin and 7-pin connectors: Provides reliable electrical connections for trailer lights and, with the 7-pin connector, allows for charging a trailer battery and activating electric trailer brakes (with an aftermarket controller).
5th-Wheel & Gooseneck
Fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitches are designed for heavy-duty towing applications with trucks that have open beds, such as the Tundra or Tacoma. The 2025 Toyota Highlander, being a mid-size SUV, is not designed or rated for fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing. Attempting to install or use these types of hitches on a Highlander would be unsafe and could cause significant damage to the vehicle and trailer.
Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements
For improved handling and stability when towing heavier trailers, especially those approaching the Highlander's maximum towing capacity, a Weight Distributing 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, preventing excessive sag at the rear of the Highlander and improving steering and braking performance. Always follow the WDH manufacturer's instructions for proper setup and adjustment.
While Toyota generally recommends a WDH for trailers exceeding a certain percentage of the vehicle
More specs for the 2025 Toyota Highlander
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2025 Toyota Highlander Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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