Henry Horton
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, depending on the trim level. The entry-level RAV4 LE will tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the RAV4 LE Hybrid can manage a maximum of 1,750 pounds. If you opt for the RAV4 Adventure or TRD Off-Road trim levels, you'll be able to tow lightweight campers and trailers up to the 3,500-pound mark.
So, if you're thinking of taking your RAV4 on your next camping trip, you'll need to pay close attention to the weight of your camper and the towing capacity of your specific RAV4 model.
What You'll Learn
What campers can a RAV4 tow?
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV with a towing capacity of between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds, depending on the trim level. This means that the RAV4 can tow small trailers and campers, but only certain models.
The RAV4 LE and LE Hybrid models can tow up to 1,500 and 1,750 pounds, respectively. Campers that can be towed by these models include the TAXA Outdoor TigerMoth, the Oregon Trailer DoDrop Alpha, the Colorado Teardrop Basedrop, and the Rustic Trail Teardrop Papa Bear.
The RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road models have a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Campers that can be towed by these models include the Forest River Wolf Pup 16FG, the Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite 17CFG, the Vintage Cruiser 19CSK, the Forest River R-POD RP-180 & RP-172, the Venture Sonic Lite SL169VUD, the Jayco Hummingbird 10RK, the Scamp 13’, 16’, and 19’ Deluxe Models, and the Taxa Outdoors Cricket.
It is important to note that while the RAV4 can tow a camper, it is essential to choose a camper that is well below the maximum towing capacity of the specific RAV4 model. Additionally, factors such as payload capacity, trailer weight, and tongue weight should be considered to ensure safe towing.
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How much can a RAV4 tow?
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV with a towing capacity of between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds, depending on the trim level. The entry-level RAV4 LE will tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the RAV4 LE Hybrid can manage a maximum of 1,750 pounds. The RAV4 Prime Plug-In Hybrid has a lower capacity and can tow only 1,295 pounds.
However, the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road trim levels have a much higher capacity and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. These models are all-wheel drive and have a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
When considering towing a camper with a RAV4, it's important to take into account the weight of the camper and ensure it falls within the towing capacity of the specific RAV4 model. The dry weight of the camper, or UVM (Unloaded Vehicle Weight), is the most important factor. This weight includes the axles and hitch of the trailer, but not cargo, water, or propane tanks.
Some examples of campers that can be towed by the RAV4 Adventure and TRD models include the Forest River Wolf Pup 16FG, Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite 17CFG, and the Scamp 13', 16', and 19' Deluxe Models.
It's worth noting that the RAV4 does not come with a tow package included, so additional equipment such as a trailer hitch and wiring harness will need to be purchased and installed.
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RAV4 towing packages
The Toyota RAV4 is a reliable vehicle with a reputation for longevity and good performance. If you're looking to use it for towing a camper trailer, you'll need to consider the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trim levels of the RAV4.
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 can tow between 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the trim level. The entry-level Toyota RAV4 LE will tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the Toyota RAV4 LE Hybrid is capable of towing a maximum of 1,750 pounds of cargo. The RAV4 Prime Plug-In Hybrid will tow only 1,295 pounds. The RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road trim levels have a maximum payload of 1,050 pounds and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
When it comes to towing a camper, the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road are the only two RAV4 trim levels that should be considered. Even then, the camper needs to be chosen carefully to ensure it falls well under the maximum weight capacity. It's important to keep in mind the maximum payload of these vehicles, which is 1,050 pounds. While towing capacity and payload are different, they are related. Vehicle manufacturers assume a weight of 150 pounds for the driver when determining towing capacity, with no other passengers or cargo in the vehicle. Therefore, any additional weight, such as passengers, gear, luggage, and food, needs to be factored into the payload. Exceeding the maximum payload can put extra strain on the suspension and cause the brakes to wear out faster, potentially cracking the frame of the vehicle.
Some examples of campers that can be towed by the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road include pop-up camper trailers, Casita trailers (specifically the M-16s and M-17s models), Scamp 13-foot models, and teardrop trailers.
It's worth noting that driving a crossover with a trailer attached can be challenging even for experienced drivers. It's recommended to stick to non-hectic roads and have someone outside the SUV providing instructions when backing up. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as oil changes and brake inspections, is crucial before towing to ensure the vehicle is running efficiently and safely.
In summary, the Toyota RAV4 is capable of towing a camper, but it's important to choose the right trim level and carefully consider the weight of the camper and its contents to stay within the vehicle's towing and payload capacity limits.
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RAV4 towing capacity by trim level
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV with a lot of strength. It is an excellent choice for towing smaller loads, such as small campers, trailers, jet skis, and motorcycles. The RAV4's towing capacity varies depending on the trim level and engine type. Here is a breakdown of the RAV4's towing capacity by trim level:
2023 Toyota RAV4 Gasoline-Powered SUV:
- RAV4 LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited trims: These entry-level trims have a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
- RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims: These trims have a higher towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and come standard with AWD. They are considered the best RAV4s for towing and are suitable for small campers or trailers.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid:
The RAV4 Hybrid, including the LE, XLE, Woodland Edition, and XLE Premium trims, has a towing capacity of 1,750 pounds with standard AWD when properly equipped.
Toyota RAV4 Prime:
The RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds. It has impressive fuel economy and an all-electric range of 42 miles.
It is important to note that the RAV4's towing capacity is limited to 3,500 pounds, even for the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims. When towing, it is crucial to consider the weight of the trailer, passengers, gear, and other factors to ensure you do not exceed the maximum towing capacity. Additionally, regular maintenance, proper hitch and hook-ups, and safety features like Toyota Safety Sense are essential for a safe towing experience.
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RAV4 towing capacity by year and engine
The Toyota RAV4 has been in the US market since 1996, and over the years, its towing capacity has varied. Here is a breakdown of the RAV4's towing capacity by year and engine:
2023 Toyota RAV4:
The 2023 RAV4 comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The towing capacity varies by trim level:
- RAV4 LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Limited: 1,500 pounds.
- RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road: 3,500 pounds.
2021 Toyota RAV4:
The 2021 RAV4 is also equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 203 horsepower. The towing capacity differs based on the trim:
- RAV4 LE: 1,500 pounds.
- RAV4 LE Hybrid: 1,750 pounds.
- RAV4 Prime Plug-In Hybrid: 1,295 pounds.
- RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road: 3,500 pounds.
2019 Toyota RAV4:
According to user reports, the 2019 RAV4 LE AWD can tow a camper trailer weighing about 1,200 pounds.
2018 Toyota RAV4:
The 2018 model year introduced the towing package option for the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims. The towing capacities are as follows:
- With towing package: 3,500 pounds.
- Without towing package: 1,500 pounds.
2013-2022 Toyota RAV4:
All RAV4 models from 2013 onwards are limited to a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when towing a braked trailer. For earlier years, refer to the owner's manual for specific weight ratings.
2006-2012 Toyota RAV4:
For these model years, a hitch kit can be purchased directly from Toyota for towing purposes.
Hybrid and Prime Models:
The RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime, which are plug-in hybrid variants, have lower towing capacities than their gasoline counterparts. The Hybrid can tow up to 1,750 pounds, while the Prime is rated for 2,500 pounds.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a RAV4 can tow a camper or travel trailer, depending on its model and weight. The towing capacity of a RAV4 ranges from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds.
It is essential to know the specific model and trim of your RAV4, as towing capacities vary. Additionally, you need to consider the weight of the camper and ensure it falls within the towing capacity of your RAV4. You may also need to install a tow package, including a trailer hitch and wiring harness.
RAV4s are generally capable of towing lightweight and ultra-lightweight campers, pop-up trailers, teardrop trailers, and small travel trailers. Some recommended campers for RAV4s include the TAXA Outdoor TigerMoth, Scamp 13' Deluxe Model, and Forest River Wolf Pup 16FG.
You need to consider the unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) or dry weight of the camper, which is the weight as manufactured at the factory, excluding cargo, water, and fuel. Ensure this weight is below the towing capacity of your RAV4 model. Additionally, consider the cargo-carrying capacity (CCC) and tongue weight or hitch weight to ensure your RAV4 can handle the load.
