When you think about towing, many people picture a powerful pickup truck cruising down the road with a massive trailer attached. However, you don’t necessarily need a pickup truck to transport heavy items. Your SUV, crossover, or even a sedan like the Camry can handle hauling cargo around town effectively, provided you have the right knowledge:

If you're in the market for a reliable towing vehicle but prefer something other than a pickup truck, the Toyota Highlander XLE is an excellent choice. Models from 2014 to 2019 even outperform the Tacoma, which tops out at 3,500 pounds. The XLE represents the highest trim level of the Highlander, equipped with a V6 engine and the optional towing package, allowing it to tow up to 5,000 pounds*. By contrast, the base LE trim, powered by a four-cylinder engine, can tow up to 1,500 pounds.

To give you a better understanding of what the Highlander XLE can handle, here are three common items people tow that weigh up to 5,000 pounds:

1. A Speedboat

Imagine a 4WD Highlander launching a 4,000-pound speedboat into the water:

Living close to a body of water and wanting to enjoy a quick spin on your speedboat? No worries. As long as your speedboat weighs less than 5,000 pounds (which most do), your Highlander XLE will easily manage the task.

2. Horses

Horse trailer

Photo credit: Boeckmann_horseexperts

The Highlander XLE has the strength to pull a two-horse trailer, complete with a couple of horses, some hay, and riding gear. On average, each horse weighs around 1,000 pounds, and a two-horse trailer typically weighs just over a ton, making the XLE a great companion for horse enthusiasts.

3. A 25’ RV

RV

Photo credit: Larry Krainson

Some 25-foot RVs weigh nearly 5,000 pounds when empty, such as the 2017 Rockwood Mini-Light 2504S, which has a dry weight of 4,800 pounds. However, not all 25-foot RVs weigh the same, so be sure to check your specific RV's weight before attaching it to your Highlander XLE.

What a Highlander LE Can Tow

Even the most basic Highlander trim level, the LE, can tow certain items with a capacity of 1,500 pounds. Opting for an LE model with a V6 engine can increase its towing capacity slightly. Here are some examples of what you can tow with the four-cylinder LE engine:

  • A teardrop trailer
  • A small utility trailer
  • A jet ski
  • An ATV

Safety Tips for Towing With Your Highlander XLE

  • Always drive at speeds below 55 mph.
  • Maintain at least four seconds of following distance from the car ahead.
  • Avoid rapid acceleration.
  • When descending hills, gently tap your brakes to prevent overheating.
  • Inspect everything, especially your brakes and all fluids, before starting your journey.
  • Check tire pressure during long trips whenever you stop.
  • Ensure tires are inflated to their maximum recommended pressure.
  • To stabilize your trailer, set your tongue weight to 10%-15% of the trailer’s total weight.

The Right Towing Parts for Your Highlander XLE

The first essential component you'll need is the hitch (Part No. PT228-48172). It connects the trailer to your Highlander's frame—never tow using only your bumper.

Another must-have is the wiring harness (Part No. PT725-48140). Without it, you risk being pulled over for non-functional trailer lights. Consider adding a ball mount and safety chains as well.

We’re consistently impressed by the towing capabilities of the Highlander XLE, and we’d love to see videos showcasing this. If you have footage, feel free to share it with us on Facebook!

* Always refer to your owner’s manual for precise specifications before towing.

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