The Toyota Grand Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV produced from 2024 to the present across multiple powertrain configurations. Available with a turbocharged gas engine, a standard hybrid system, or a Hybrid MAX powertrain, towing capacity varies by engine type and drivetrain selection.
This guide covers year-by-year towing specifications for the Grand Highlander, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight limits, payload capacity, and hitch requirements for each model year and configuration. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, braking system, and overall drivetrain integrity under load.
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2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cyl (265 hp, 310 lb-ft); 2.5L 4-cyl Hybrid (243 hp combined); 2.4L turbo Hybrid MAX (362 hp combined) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD (Gas); FWD or AWD (Hybrid); AWD only (Hybrid MAX) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500-1,700 lbs (680-771 kg) – Gas; approx. 1,200-1,400 lbs (544-635 kg) – Hybrid (varies by trim; confirm via door sticker) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX configurations |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when equipped with the turbocharged gas or Hybrid MAX powertrain and the factory tow package. Standard hybrid models are rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) regardless of drivetrain selection between FWD and AWD. Confirming tongue weight against payload capacity on the door placard is necessary before hitching any trailer.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cyl (265 hp, 310 lb-ft); 2.5L 4-cyl Hybrid (243 hp combined); 2.4L turbo Hybrid MAX (362 hp combined) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD (Gas); FWD or AWD (Hybrid); AWD only (Hybrid MAX) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500-1,700 lbs (680-771 kg) – Gas; approx. 1,200-1,400 lbs (544-635 kg) – Hybrid (varies by trim; confirm via door sticker) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX configurations |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander maintains a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) for gas-engine and Hybrid MAX trims when properly equipped. Curb weight for the 2025 model year is approximately 4,440 lbs, which directly affects available payload headroom under the GVWR. Operators should account for passenger weight, cargo, and tongue load together when planning any towing configuration.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4L turbocharged 4-cyl (265 hp, 310 lb-ft); 2.5L 4-cyl Hybrid (243 hp combined); 2.4L turbo Hybrid MAX (362 hp combined) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD (Gas); FWD or AWD (Hybrid); AWD only (Hybrid MAX) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500-1,700 lbs (680-771 kg) – Gas; approx. 1,200-1,400 lbs (544-635 kg) – Hybrid (varies by trim; confirm via door sticker) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX configurations |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) – Gas and Hybrid MAX; 350 lbs (159 kg) – Standard Hybrid |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander was the nameplate’s launch year, offering a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on gas-engine XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims. The base Hybrid trims, including Hybrid XLE and Hybrid Limited, are rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) due to the lower-output 2.5L hybrid powertrain. The GCWR for the gas model is listed at 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg) in the manufacturer’s owner’s manual. The Class III hitch receiver uses a standard 2-inch opening and requires a separately purchased wiring harness and ball mount.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Selecting the correct towing equipment is as important as knowing the rated towing limits. The Toyota Grand Highlander uses a Class III hitch receiver with a 2-inch opening across all model years. Toyota offers an OEM factory hitch as an optional accessory, and aftermarket Class III receivers are widely available for the platform.
Tow Package
The factory tow package on the Grand Highlander typically includes trailer sway control and the wiring harness. Trailer sway control is active across all Grand Highlander trims when towing is engaged. Without the factory tow package, accessory wiring must be sourced separately.
Trailer Brake Controller
Any trailer exceeding 3,000 lbs should use a proportional or time-delayed electric trailer brake controller. Most states and provinces legally require trailer brakes above a threshold between 1,500 and 3,000 lbs. An aftermarket brake controller can be hardwired or plugged into the OBD-II port.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
The Grand Highlander’s tongue weight limit of 500 lbs (227 kg) on gas and Hybrid MAX models applies to a standard dead-weight setup. For trailers approaching the 5,000 lb towing limit, a weight-distributing hitch helps level the tow vehicle and distributes load across all axles. This improves steering control and brake performance on long hauls.
Transmission Cooler
Sustained towing, particularly on inclines or in high ambient temperatures, increases transmission fluid temperatures above normal operating range. An auxiliary transmission cooler reduces heat buildup during extended towing sessions. This is especially relevant for hybrid powertrains with integrated electric motors generating additional heat.
Tire Load Ratings
Tire load ratings must support the combined vehicle weight plus tongue load. The Grand Highlander’s factory tires are rated for the vehicle’s GVWR. Overloading beyond tire capacity creates heat buildup and increases blowout risk. Confirming load index values on the tire sidewall before towing near the rated limit is required.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Component | Normal Towing (under 3,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (3,000-5,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Type | Standard ball mount, Class III | Weight-distributing hitch, Class III |
| Trailer Brakes | Recommended | Required (most jurisdictions) |
| Transmission Cooler | Not required | Recommended |
| Brake Controller | Optional | Required |
| Safety Chains | Required | Required |
| Trailer Sway Control | Active via factory system | Active; supplemental controller recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Grand Highlander?
The maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Grand Highlander is 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). This figure applies to gas-engine models and Hybrid MAX models equipped with the factory tow package. Standard hybrid configurations are rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).
How much can a Toyota Grand Highlander tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package installed, the Toyota Grand Highlander gas and Hybrid MAX trims can tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). The tow package adds the trailer wiring harness and activates the trailer sway control system. Without the tow package, maximum trailer weight ratings still apply but harness connections must be sourced separately.
Does AWD affect Toyota Grand Highlander towing capacity?
AWD does not reduce the Grand Highlander’s maximum towing capacity compared to FWD on equivalent powertrain trims. Gas FWD and Gas AWD models share the same 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) towing rating. AWD adds traction stability during towing in low-grip conditions but does not independently increase the rated trailer weight limit.
What trailer weight is safe for a Toyota Grand Highlander?
Toyota rates the Grand Highlander gas and Hybrid MAX models for a maximum gross trailer weight of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). Operating at or below 80 percent of the maximum rated capacity provides a margin for safe braking and trailer stability, particularly on grades. Standard Hybrid models should not exceed 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) under any configuration.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Toyota Grand Highlander?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when towing loads approaching 5,000 lbs or when tongue weight exceeds 500 lbs (227 kg). The Grand Highlander’s tongue weight limit is 500 lbs for gas and Hybrid MAX trims and 350 lbs for standard Hybrid trims. Exceeding tongue weight limits places excess stress on the rear suspension and negatively affects front axle steering response.
Does the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid have lower towing capacity?
Yes. The standard Hybrid model uses a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid system producing 243 hp combined, which yields a rated towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The Hybrid MAX uses a more powerful 2.4L turbocharged hybrid producing 362 hp combined, which raises the towing capacity to match the gas model at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). Choosing between hybrid variants directly determines the trailer weight limit available to the operator.
Conclusion
The Toyota Grand Highlander, produced from 2024 onward, offers a towing capacity range of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) depending on powertrain selection. Gas-engine trims and Hybrid MAX trims reach the 5,000 lb maximum, while the standard Hybrid configuration is rated at 3,500 lbs across all model years reviewed. The GCWR for properly equipped gas and Hybrid MAX models is 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg), and tongue weight is limited to 500 lbs (227 kg) on those same configurations. Engine choice, drivetrain, and the installation of the factory tow package are the primary factors that determine achievable towing capacity on any given Grand Highlander unit.
