Toyota Highlander and its towing capacity
Can Toyota Highlander tow camper up to 5000lbs? Toyota Highlander is a popular mid-size SUV that is known for having a roomy interior, a smooth ride, and a range of useful features. One of the most frequently asked questions about this vehicle is whether it has the capability to tow a camper. In this article, we will look closer at the towing capabilities of the Toyota Highlander and explore what factors can affect its towing capacity.i think you get the answer to the Can Toyota Highlander tow camper up to 5000lbs
The Toyota Highlander comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid powertrain, among other engine sizes and trim levels. The towing capacity of the vehicle will depend on the specific engine and trim level you choose. According to Toyota, the 2021 Highlander with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive has a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. The V6-powered Highlander, on the other hand, has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
It’s worth noting that these are just estimates, and actual towing capacity may vary depending on a number of factors, including the weight of the camper, the weight of the cargo and passengers, and the vehicle’s maintenance. Also, the hybrid version can only pull 3,500 pounds, which is a lot less than the V6 version.
When towing with the Toyota Highlander, it’s important to keep in mind that the weight of the camper, as well as any additional cargo, should not exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity. Also, it’s important to balance the weight of the camper and its cargo so that the ride is stable and safe.
It’s also important to have the proper towing equipment, such as a hitch, wiring harness, and brake controller. The Toyota Highlander comes with a factory-installed towing package, which includes a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and other necessary equipment.
When towing a camper with the Toyota Highlander, it’s also important to drive in a manner that is safe and fuel-efficient. This can include things like maintaining a moderate speed, avoiding sudden acceleration and braking, and using cruise control. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle serviced regularly to ensure that it’s running at its best.
The Toyota Highlander also comes with various advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to ensure a safe and stable ride, even when towing a camper.
In conclusion, the Toyota Highlander is a reliable and capable SUV that can pull a camper. But the exact amount you can pull will depend on the engine and trim level you choose, as well as how you drive and how well you take care of your car. To get the most out of your Toyota Highlander, it’s important to maintain the vehicle properly, drive in a safe and fuel-efficient manner, and choose the V6 variant for the best towing capacity. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the weight of the camper, as well as any additional cargo, does not exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity, and to have the proper towing equipment and safety features.
Another important thing to consider when towing with the Toyota Highlander is the vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) which is the maximum weight of the towing vehicle, including passengers and cargo, plus the weight of the trailer and its cargo. It is essential to stay within the GCWR to avoid any damage to the vehicle or risking an accident.
It’s also important to note that the Toyota Highlander does not come with a factory-installed trailer brake controller. This is an important piece of equipment that is required for safely towing a camper. It helps to slow down or stop the vehicle and the trailer in a controlled manner. If you plan to tow a camper with your Toyota Highlander, it’s essential to have a trailer brake controller installed.
Additionally, when towing a camper, it’s important to make sure that the load is properly balanced. An imbalanced load can cause the vehicle to sway or fishtail, which can be dangerous on the road. To make sure the ride is safe and stable, it’s best to spread the camper’s weight out evenly and use a weight distribution hitch and sway control device.
Another important factor to consider is the type of camper you plan to tow. The Toyota Highlander can pull a variety of campers, including travel trailers, pop-up campers, and small to medium-sized fifth-wheel trailers. But it’s important to keep in mind that the Highlander may not be able to pull larger, heavier campers.
In conclusion, the Toyota Highlander is a versatile and capable SUV that can tow a camper, but it’s important to keep in mind that the towing capacity may vary depending on the engine and trim level you choose, as well as on the weight of the camper and cargo and passengers. To make sure the ride is safe and stable, it’s important to keep the car in good shape, drive safely and save gas, and have the right towing equipment, such as a hitch, wiring harness, brake controller, weight distribution hitch, and sway control devices. Additionally, it’s important to stay within the GCWR and to make sure that the load is properly balanced. If you are unsure of your Highlander’s towing capacity or need advice on the best way to tow a camper, it’s always a good idea to consult with a Toyota dealer or a professional towing specialist.
