Are you curious about the 2017 Toyota Highlander towing capacity? Well, you've come to the right place! In this article, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about the towing capabilities of the 2017 Highlander. We'll cover the different engine options, trim levels, and how they affect the maximum towing capacity. Plus, we'll throw in some helpful tips and tricks to make sure you're towing safely and efficiently. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Understanding the 2017 Toyota Highlander

The 2017 Toyota Highlander is a popular SUV known for its reliability, comfort, and versatility. It's a great choice for families who need a spacious vehicle with the ability to haul cargo or tow a trailer. Before we get into the specifics of towing capacity, let's take a quick look at the key features of the 2017 Highlander.

Key Features

The 2017 Highlander comes in several trim levels, including LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, and Limited. Each trim level offers a different set of features and amenities. Some of the notable features include:

• Engine Options: The 2017 Highlander offers two engine choices: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The V6 engine is the more powerful option and is required for the maximum towing capacity.
• Transmission: Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission.
• Seating: The Highlander can seat up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for large families.
• Safety Features: The 2017 Highlander comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including a rearview camera, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking.
• Technology: The Highlander offers a variety of technology features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports.

Engine Options and Towing Capacity

Now, let's get to the main question: what is the 2017 Toyota Highlander towing capacity? The answer depends on the engine you choose.

• 2.7-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine: This engine is standard on the base LE trim level. It produces 185 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The towing capacity for models equipped with this engine is 1,500 pounds.
• 3.5-Liter V6 Engine: This engine is available on all trim levels and comes standard on the SE and Limited trims. It produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The towing capacity for models equipped with this engine is 5,000 pounds.

As you can see, the V6 engine offers a significantly higher towing capacity than the four-cylinder engine. If you plan to do any serious towing, the V6 is the way to go.

Factors Affecting Towing Capacity

It's important to understand that the towing capacity is the maximum weight that the Highlander can safely tow. However, several factors can affect the actual towing capacity in real-world situations. Let's take a look at some of the most important factors.

Weight Distribution

Proper weight distribution is crucial for safe towing. You should always distribute the weight of your cargo evenly in the trailer. Too much weight in the front or rear of the trailer can cause instability and make it difficult to control the vehicle. As a rule of thumb, aim for about 60% of the weight to be in the front half of the trailer and 40% in the rear half.

Tongue Weight

Tongue weight is the amount of weight that the trailer exerts on the hitch. It's typically recommended that the tongue weight be between 10% and 15% of the total trailer weight. Too little tongue weight can cause the trailer to sway, while too much tongue weight can overload the rear suspension of the vehicle.

Passengers and Cargo

The towing capacity listed by the manufacturer assumes that the vehicle is empty except for the driver. If you have passengers and cargo in the vehicle, you'll need to subtract that weight from the maximum towing capacity. This is especially important if you're towing a heavy trailer.

Terrain and Weather Conditions

The terrain and weather conditions can also affect the towing capacity. Towing uphill or in strong winds will put more strain on the engine and transmission. It's important to adjust your driving accordingly and reduce your speed if necessary.

Towing Tips and Tricks

Now that you understand the factors that affect towing capacity, let's go over some helpful tips and tricks to make your towing experience safer and more enjoyable.

Use the Right Equipment

Make sure you have the right equipment for towing. This includes a properly installed hitch, a trailer wiring harness, and safety chains. It's also a good idea to use a weight distribution hitch if you're towing a heavy trailer. A weight distribution hitch helps to distribute the weight of the trailer evenly across the axles of the vehicle, which can improve stability and handling.

Check Your Tires

Before you start towing, check your tires to make sure they're properly inflated. The correct tire pressure can be found on a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual. It's also a good idea to inspect your tires for any signs of wear or damage.

Drive Defensively

When towing, it's important to drive defensively. Allow extra following distance, brake early, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Remember that your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer, so it's important to adjust your driving accordingly.

Practice Makes Perfect

If you're new to towing, it's a good idea to practice in a safe, open area before hitting the road. Practice backing up, turning, and parking with the trailer. This will help you get a feel for how the vehicle handles and build your confidence.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your vehicle in top condition and ensuring safe towing. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, and pay special attention to the engine, transmission, and brakes.

Safety First

Safety should always be your top priority when towing. Here are some additional safety tips to keep in mind:

• Never exceed the maximum towing capacity.
• Always use safety chains and make sure they are properly connected.
• Check your mirrors frequently.
• Take breaks to avoid fatigue.
• Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards.

Choosing the Right Trim Level for Towing

When it comes to towing, choosing the right trim level of the 2017 Toyota Highlander can make a significant difference. As we mentioned earlier, the 3.5-liter V6 engine is essential for achieving the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Therefore, you'll want to focus on trim levels that offer this engine.

• LE Plus: This trim level offers the V6 engine as an option, making it a good choice for those who want to balance affordability with towing capability.
• XLE: The XLE trim comes standard with the V6 engine and adds a number of comfort and convenience features, such as leather seats and a sunroof.
• SE: The SE trim is a sporty option that also comes standard with the V6 engine. It features a unique suspension tuning and styling elements.
• Limited: The Limited trim is the top-of-the-line model and comes standard with the V6 engine. It offers a host of luxury features, such as heated and ventilated front seats and a premium audio system.

If towing is a primary concern, we recommend choosing the XLE, SE, or Limited trim levels, as they all come standard with the V6 engine and offer the maximum towing capacity.

Aftermarket Options for Increased Towing Capacity

While the 2017 Toyota Highlander has a respectable towing capacity, some owners may want to increase it even further. However, it's important to note that modifying your vehicle to exceed the manufacturer's stated towing capacity can be dangerous and may void your warranty. With that said, there are some aftermarket options that can improve the towing performance and safety of your Highlander.

Upgraded Suspension

Upgrading the suspension can help to improve stability and handling when towing. Options include heavier-duty springs, shocks, and sway bars. These upgrades can help to reduce body roll and improve control, especially when towing heavy loads.

Brake Controllers

A brake controller is an essential piece of equipment if you're towing a trailer with electric brakes. The brake controller allows you to adjust the braking force of the trailer brakes, which can help to prevent sway and improve stopping distance.

Transmission Coolers

Towing heavy loads can put a lot of strain on the transmission. A transmission cooler can help to keep the transmission from overheating, which can prolong its life and improve performance.

Disclaimer: Before making any modifications to your vehicle, be sure to consult with a qualified mechanic or towing expert. They can help you choose the right equipment and ensure that it is installed properly. Do not exceed manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The 2017 Toyota Highlander towing capacity is a respectable 5,000 pounds when equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine. However, it's important to consider the factors that can affect towing capacity, such as weight distribution, tongue weight, and passengers and cargo. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable towing experience. Remember, safety should always be your top priority, so never exceed the maximum towing capacity and always use the right equipment. Happy towing, guys!