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2021 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity

Factory towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch class for the 2021 Toyota Highlander — plus the gear this setup calls for.

2021 Toyota Highlander — Non-hybrid trims (L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum) and Hybrid trims (LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum) only; no cab/bed/drivetrain breakdown beyond hybrid vs non-hybrid

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⚠ Pending verification

Figures were extracted from the source below and are pending confirmation against the OEM towing guide.

Source: Secondary automotive source — The Overview of 2021 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity · retrieved 2026-07-02

Max Towing Capacity

5,000

lbs / 2,268 kg

Payload

1,685 lbs

Hitch Class

Class III

GCWR

—

Engine Variants

2 variants

Trim Notes

Maximum 5,000 lb towing capacity is achieved with the non-hybrid 3.5L V6 engine across all standard trim levels (L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum). Hybrid models (LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum) are rated at only 3,500 lbs. Payload capacity of 1,685 lbs represents the upper end of the 1,485–1,685 lb range depending on trim.

⚠ Important

Peak 5,000 lb: 2021 Toyota Highlander non-hybrid, 3.5L V6, all trim levels (L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, Platinum) (conventional ball hitch). Next-highest 3,500 lb: 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid (LE, XLE, Limited, Platinum), 2.5L L4HV Atkinson cycle engine.

◆ Gear you may need

🔩Trailer HitchCURT & Reese, sized to your class→🛑Brake ControllerRequired for trailers over 3,000 lbs→🪞Tow MirrorsExtended view for wide loads→🔌Trailer Wiring HarnessVehicle-specific plug-and-play→⚙️Ball Mount & Hitch BallMatched to your receiver→

Always confirm against your door-jamb sticker & OEM towing guide before hauling. Ratings vary by exact configuration.

Different configuration? Look it up

The 5,000 lbs figure above is the properly-equipped maximum for this model year. For a specific trim, engine, or drivetrain, run your exact setup through the live tool:

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Prose overview

The 2021 Toyota Highlander carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, paired with a Class III hitch. As with every truck and SUV, the rating swings by engine, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, and rear axle ratio — so two 2021 Toyota Highlanders on the same lot can be rated thousands of pounds apart. Match your trailer to the lowestrelevant limit (towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch rating), and verify against the sticker inside the driver's-side door jamb.

Related tow ratings

2024 Toyota Highlander →2020 Toyota Highlander →2022 Toyota Highlander →2023 Toyota Highlander →2025 Toyota Highlander →2024 Toyota Tundra →

2021 Toyota Highlander towing FAQ

What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2021 Toyota Highlander?

A properly equipped 2021 Toyota Highlander is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs. This maximum applies only to specific engine, axle, and tow-package combinations — most trims tow less.

What hitch class does the 2021 Toyota Highlander need?

Based on its rated capacity, the 2021 Toyota Highlander typically pairs with a Class III hitch. Always match the hitch to your loaded trailer weight and never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity.

Do I need a brake controller to tow with a 2021 Toyota Highlander?

Most states require trailer brakes — and a brake controller — for trailers over 3,000 lbs loaded. A brake controller syncs the trailer's brakes with the vehicle's for safe, controlled stops.

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