What Is The Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity?
2025 Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity Overview
- 2025 Toyota RAV4 towing capacity reaches 1,500 pounds1
- RAV4 LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited trims offered in FWD or AWD
- 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid models can tow up to 1,750 pounds1
- 2025 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) models pull up to 2,500 pounds1
- New RAV4 Hybrid and PHEV SUVs get standard AWD
What does the 1,500-pound1 Toyota RAV4 towing capacity mean for you? It means that your landscaping projects can become simpler because you can use a small utility trailer to transport stones or plants. It means that camping trips can be more fun since you have the capacity to bring a lightweight pop-up camper or kayak trailer along. It means you can more easily transfer loads of boxes to your storage unit. However, not every trim level has this same capacity. Let's review this SUV's specs below.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity by Trim Level
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque and can be paired to either front- or all-wheel drive. It has a comprehensive menu of trim levels to help you select the one with the features most important to you at a friendly price. Part of the ways these trims differ is in their towing capacity. Here's a look at your gasoline-powered options:
This entry-level trim has a 1,500-pound towing capacity1 with either FWD or AWD. An eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission helps you enjoy smooth travels.
In addition to a 1,500-pound Toyota RAV4 towing capacity1 with either FWD or AWD, you'll find this trim outfitted with 17-inch five-spoke silver alloy wheels and LED projector lights with chrome-finished bezels. A blind-spot monitor with rear-cross traffic alerts can also provide extra peace of mind.
Like the last two entries, this midlevel trim also has a 1,500-pound towing capacity1 with either FWD or AWD. However, you will be upgraded to 19-inch wheels and enjoy the added warm ambiance created by a power-tilting/sliding moonroof. SofTex-trimmed seats are elegant, easy to clean, and comfortable.
This top-level trim resembles some of the earlier entries with its 1,500-pound towing capacity1 with either FWD or AWD. However, you will enjoy added luxuries like a 10.5-inch Toyota audio multimedia display with wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® capabilities.
To learn more about any of these 2025 Toyota RAV4 trims and their amenities, reach out to our team at McGee Toyota of Claremont today. We can help you compare them head-to-head by discussing their specs and features or by letting you take back-to-back test drives.
What About the RAV4 Hybrid Towing Capacity?
If you thought that was the end of your options, the Toyota team has a pleasant surprise awaiting you. This crossover SUV also comes in even more hybrid trims to help drivers boost their fuel economy. They are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with two electric motors, resulting in a combined 219 horsepower.
Select from the following 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid trims:
- Hybrid LE
- Hybrid XLE
- Hybrid SE
- Hybrid Woodland Edition
- Hybrid XLE Premium
- Hybrid XSE
- Hybrid Limited
These vehicles have a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid towing capacity of 1,750 pounds with standard AWD when properly equipped.
Last but not least, there is the new 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, the most powerful version of this SUV yet, with over 300 horsepower from its advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain. This PHEV model differs from the previous hybrid trims, which can't be externally charged to add all-electric range. However, in exchange for this slight change to your routine, the Toyota RAV4 PHEV model offers incredible fuel economy of up to 94 MPGe2 and an all-electric range of 42 miles.3 Available in two trims – the SE and XSE – with standard AWD, its Toyota RAV4 PHEV towing capacity is 2,500 pounds1 in both.
Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity by Year and Engine
This crossover has been helping drivers tackle the road (and go off of it) for decades, first debuting in the United States in 1996. As such, pre-owned options may be available for you to explore if you are looking for an even more competitively priced SUV with impressive towing capabilities. However, previous versions will not necessarily have the same 2025 Toyota RAV4 towing capacity. Review this helpful chart to see how maximum tow ratings have changed in recent years:
| Toyota RAV4 Engine | Towing Capacity1 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 lbs |
| 2024 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2023 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2022 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2021 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2020 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2019 | 203-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2018 | 176-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 - 3,500 lbs |
| 2017 | 176-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 lbs |
| 2016 | 176-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 lbs |
| 2015 | 176-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 lbs |
| 2014 | 176-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 lbs |
| 2013 | 176-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder | 1,500 lbs |
Again, these numbers can also be affected by what trim you get, so talk to our team about the specs of any vehicle you are considering. If you find a pre-owned trim with the capability to tow up to 3,500 pounds but not all of the right equipment, stop by our Toyota parts department, where we can help locate and install the proper trailer hitch or other components you need.
Tips for Towing With a Toyota RAV4
Driving a crossover with a trailer attached can be unwieldy even for very experienced drivers. Therefore, we recommend sticking to non-hectic roads when possible, giving you more time and room to switch lanes or take corners since you will need a wider berth. It's often a good idea to have someone outside the SUV giving you instructions when trying to back up, as it can be hard to judge distances with just your mirrors.
It's important to check the overall condition of your car before towing. For example, regular oil changes and brake inspections are necessary to keep your vehicle running efficiently at normal times, but this is especially important if it's going to be hauling a larger load. You don't want to risk overheating the engine or not having enough stopping power. Also, be sure to check that your tires are properly inflated and have healthy tread levels before conducting any towing projects.
Stop by McGee Toyota of Claremont Today
To see all our great SUVs, including the Toyota RAV4, stop by our dealership today. We'd love to help you get behind the wheel of this impressive gasoline-powered vehicle or one of its hybrid variants. A RAV4 tow hitch and receiver are available on all trim levels, but we can also talk you through other accessories that can help you get more use out of your crossover on a daily basis. The miles ahead of you can hold so much potential, and we want to help you make the most of it.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity
Can you tow with a Toyota RAV4?
Yes, you can tow from 1,500 pounds to up to 3,500 pounds in some versions of the recent Toyota RAV4 models when properly equipped. To get the maximum towing capacity, ask our team to show you around some of the rugged late-model RAV4 trims featuring a standard AWD drivetrain. We can also explain what's included in our available tow package when you reach out to us today.
How much can the 2025 Toyota RAV4 tow?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 gasoline-powered SUV can tow 1,500 pounds when it is properly equipped. You can also seek out a hybrid version of this crossover, which is still capable of towing up to 1,750 pounds.1 For those looking for even better fuel efficiency, there is the Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid. This PHEV offers a 2,500-pound towing capacity.1
How can I increase the towing capacity on my Toyota RAV4?
You can get increased towing capacity in a Toyota RAV4 SUV by opting for the late-model Adventure or TRD Off-Road trims of the gasoline-powered version of the vehicle and making sure to get the necessary available towing equipment. Talk to our team to ensure the crossover you build online or find on our lot is as capable as possible.
Can the Toyota RAV4 tow a camper?
Yes, you can attach a small pop-up camper to the tow hook of a Toyota RAV4. However, those interested in towing should focus on the late-model Adventure or TRD Off-Road trims, which have a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.1 You should also make sure the camper in question – and all the contents it contains – do not exceed this weight limit.
Can the Toyota RAV4 tow a boat?
Yes, some late-model Toyota RAV4 SUVs are capable of towing a small boat and trailer weighing up to 3,500 pounds (including any gear contained within).1 For example, a 16-foot fiberglass fishing boat can weigh under 2,000 pounds. However, only some of this SUV's previous model year trim levels have this 3,500-pound capability,1 so make sure to clarify these specs with our team.
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1Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
2MPGe is the EPA-equivalent of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric operation. Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
3EPA-estimated total driving range for when vehicle is fully charged and operated under ideal driving conditions. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual range may decrease significantly depending on speed, outside temperature, accessory use, how/where you drive, charging habits, and other factors. Battery capacity also decreases with time and use, which will reduce range. See www.fueleconomy.gov and Owner’s Manual for details.
