When choosing the right family vehicle, the Toyota Highlander has long been popular for its versatility, comfort, and dependability. One of the key features many buyers look for in an SUV is its towing capacity, especially for haul trailers, boats, or caravans. This article will explore the 2017 Toyota Highlander’s towing capacity, how it compares to other vehicles in its class, and the factors influencing its towing capabilities.
Table of Contents
Overview of the 2017 Toyota Highlander
The 2017 Toyota Highlander is a mid-sized crossover SUV designed for families. It provides seating for up to eight passengers and has a wide range of features to make every journey as comfortable and safe as possible. From its sleek exterior design to the high-quality interior, the Highlander is a well-rounded vehicle that can tackle daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Under the hood, the 2017 Highlander offers a variety of engine options. A 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine powers the base model, but V6 and hybrid variants are also available. Each engine offers a different towing capacity, and understanding these differences is crucial for anyone considering using the Highlander for towing purposes.
Towing Capacity Breakdown for the 2017 Toyota Highlander
The towing capacity of the 2017 Toyota Highlander depends on the specific engine and drivetrain configuration you choose. There are three main configurations: the base four-cylinder engine, the more powerful V6 engine, and the hybrid variant.
1.4-Litre Four-Cylinder Engine
A 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine powers the 2017 Toyota Highlander’s base model. While this engine offers good fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience, its towing capacity is more limited than the V6 version. When properly equipped, the 2.7-litre engine can tow up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lbs), suitable for smaller trailers, jet skis, or light-duty camping trailers.
While the four-cylinder engine may not be ideal for heavy-duty towing, it is a practical option for those who don’t need to haul large loads regularly. If you primarily use your vehicle for everyday driving and only occasionally need to tow light equipment, the four-cylinder Highlander can be a cost-effective choice.
3.5-Litre V6 Engine
The 3.5-litre V6 engine in the 2017 Toyota Highlander significantly boosts power for those needing a higher towing capacity. The V6 engine can tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), making it an excellent choice for those who regularly tow larger loads such as boats, caravans, or heavy-duty trailers.
One of the V6 engine’s standout features is its towing capacity. It provides enough power to haul a significant weight while maintaining a smooth and stable driving experience. For families who enjoy outdoor adventures or have more extensive towing needs, the V6 engine is the most suitable option.
3.5-Litre V6 Hybrid Engine
The 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid uses a 3.5-litre V6 engine and an electric motor. While hybrid vehicles are typically known for fuel efficiency rather than towing prowess, the Highlander Hybrid still offers a respectable towing capacity. The hybrid version can tow up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), slightly less than the standard V6 model but still adequate for most family towing needs.
The hybrid engine provides a good balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for those who want the towing capabilities of the V6 engine with the added benefit of better fuel economy. However, the standard V6 model would be more suitable for those who frequently tow heavy loads.
Towing Features of the 2017 Toyota Highlander
The 2017 Toyota Highlander has several features that enhance its towing capabilities, making it a reliable choice for hauling trailers, boats, or other heavy loads. These features ensure that the Highlander remains stable and secure while towing, providing peace of mind.
Tow Package
The Toyota Highlander offers a towing package with an upgraded radiator, enhanced suspension components, and a trailer sway control system. This package is available on the V6 and hybrid models and is designed to help the vehicle handle larger loads. If you plan on towing heavy trailers or caravans, the tow package is a must-have, as it helps improve the vehicle’s stability and cooling efficiency.
Trailer Sway Control
One of the standout towing features in the 2017 Highlander is the trailer sway control system. This system detects any side-to-side movement in the trailer and applies individual brakes to each of the Highlander’s wheels to help keep the vehicle and trailer stable. This feature is handy when towing in windy conditions or driving at higher speeds.
Brake Assist and Stability Control
The Highlander also comes equipped with Toyota’s brake assist and stability control systems, further enhancing its towing capabilities. Brake assist provides additional braking force in emergencies, while stability control helps prevent skidding and loss of traction. These features are significant when towing, as they help ensure that the vehicle remains in control, even when towing a heavy load.
Comparing the 2017 Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity to Other Vehicles
When considering a vehicle for towing, it’s important to compare its capabilities to those of other SUVs in the same class. The 2017 Toyota Highlander competes against several other mid-sized SUVs, each with its towing capacity and features.
2017 Honda Pilot
The 2017 Honda Pilot is another popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Like the Highlander, the Pilot offers a range of towing options, with its maximum towing capacity reaching 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when equipped with the V6 engine. This places the Pilot on par with the V6 Highlander in terms of towing capacity. However, the Pilot does not offer a hybrid option, which gives the Highlander a slight edge for those looking for a more fuel-efficient towing vehicle.
2017 Ford Explorer
The 2017 Ford Explorer is another mid-sized SUV competitor. With its 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, the Explorer can tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when properly equipped. This makes it comparable to the V6-powered Highlander in terms of towing capacity. However, the Explorer is typically regarded as more rugged and capable off-road, which might appeal to those needing a vehicle for more challenging towing conditions.
2017 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse is another SUV that provides substantial towing power. The Traverse’s 3.6-litre V6 engine can tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), which places it on equal footing with the Highlander’s V6 engine regarding towing capacity. However, the Traverse is often seen as a larger vehicle with a more spacious interior, which may be more suitable for larger families but less ideal for those looking for a more agile and fuel-efficient option.
Factors That Affect Towing Capacity
While the 2017 Toyota Highlander offers impressive towing capabilities, several factors can influence the vehicle’s towing capacity. Considering these factors is essential when determining how much you can safely tow with your Highlander.
Vehicle Load
The weight of the passengers and cargo inside the vehicle can affect its towing capacity. The more weight you have inside the Highlander, the less it can safely tow. If you plan on towing a heavy load, keep your vehicle load to a minimum to ensure safe towing.
Trailer Type
The type of trailer you plan on towing also significantly determines how much weight your Highlander can handle. For example, a travel trailer with a large body may weigh more than a small boat trailer, even if the actual load is the same. Be sure to consider the trailer’s total weight, including its contents, when calculating the total weight the Highlander needs to tow.
Towing Equipment
The type of towing equipment you use can also affect your vehicle’s towing capacity. For example, using a weight-distribution hitch or a brake controller can help improve stability and braking power when towing heavier loads. Make sure you use the right equipment and that it is properly installed to maximise the towing capacity of your Highlander.
Conclusion
The 2017 Toyota Highlander is a versatile and reliable vehicle with impressive towing capabilities, especially with the V6 engine. Whether you are towing a small trailer for a weekend camping trip or hauling a more significant load for a holiday, the Highlander can meet your needs. However, the towing capacity will depend on your engine choice and configuration.
The V6-powered Highlander, in particular, stands out with its ability to tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), making it competitive with other SUVs in the same class. Whether you opt for the standard V6, the hybrid, or the four-cylinder model, the Highlander has features such as trailer sway control, stability control, and a tow package that enhance its towing performance and provide a safe and smooth driving experience.
Ultimately, the 2017 Toyota Highlander offers a good balance of power, efficiency, and towing capability, making it a top choice for families who need a reliable vehicle that can handle both daily driving and the demands of towing.
FAQs
Can a 2017 Toyota Highlander really tow 5000 lbs?
Yes, the 2017 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped with the V6 engine and the factory-installed towing package.
How much can a 2017 Toyota Highlander tow in kg?
The 2017 Toyota Highlander can tow up to 2,268 kg when fitted with the V6 engine and the towing package, adhering to manufacturer specifications.
Are 2017 Toyota Highlanders good for towing?
Yes, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is well-suited for towing, offering a powerful V6 engine, a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), and a range of towing-friendly features like trailer sway control.