If you’re in the market for a versatile and capable crossover SUV that can handle your towing needs, then the 2023 Toyota RAV4 might just be the vehicle for you.
This popular Toyota model has been a go-to choice for many drivers, offering a winning combination of style, performance, and practicality.
But just how much can the 2023 RAV4 tow? What is the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity?
The maximum towing capacity of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 ranges between 1,500 – 3,500 pounds (680 – 1,587 kg) depending on engine type, transmission, drive, etc.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the towing capacity of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and provide you with charts and figures to help you make an informed decision.
| Model/Trim | Curb Weight (lb.) | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) (lb.) | Payload (lb.) | Towing Capacity (lb.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE | 3380 | 4610 | 1230 (FWD) | 1500 |
| XLE | 3450 (FWD) | 4610 | 1160 (FWD) | 1500 |
| XLE Premium | 3450 | 4610 | 1160 | 1500 |
| Adventure | 3680 | 4705 | 1025 | 3500 |
| TRD Off-Road | 3680 | 4705 | 1025 | 3500 |
| Limited | 3510 (FWD) | 4610 | 1100 | 1500 |
| Hybrid LE | 3710 | 4920 | 1210 | 1750 |
| Hybrid XLE | 3775 | 4920 | 1145 | 1750 |
| Hybrid Woodland Edition | 3775 | 4920 | 1145 | 1750 |
| Hybrid XLE Premium | 3755 | 4920 | 1145 | 1750 |
| Hybrid SE | 3780 (FWD) | 4920 | 1140 | 1750 |
| Hybrid XSE | 3805 | 4920 | 1115 | 1750 |
| Hybrid Limited | 3805 | 4920 | 1115 | 1750 |
| Prime SE | 4235 | 5530 | 1295 | 2500 |
| Prime XSE | 4300 | 5530 | 1230 | 2500 |
This table displays the curb weight, fuel tank capacity, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), payload, seating capacity, and a towing capacity of different trims and models of the 2023 Toyota RAV4.
It is also crucial to remember that the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer should not surpass the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the Toyota RAV4.
Here I’ve collected all the 2023 Toyota RAV4 towing and payload capacity information from the official Toyota resources that includes the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Brochure and 2023 Toyota RAV4 Trailer Towing Guide.
What’s New for 2023?
It appears that for the 2023 model year, Toyota has made some updates to the RAV4’s infotainment system.
The newer system features larger display screens, with an 8.0-inch display now standard on LE, XLE, XLE Premium, and Adventure trims, replacing last year’s 7.0-inch unit.
Meanwhile, the Limited and TRD Off-Road models receive an even larger 10.5-inch display.
Towing Capacity Charts
We’ve compiled the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Towing Capacity Charts, which provide an overview of the towing capacity for each RAV4 model and trim level.
These charts will help you determine which RAV4 is best suited for your towing needs, whether you’re towing a small trailer for weekend getaways or hauling heavier loads for work or outdoor adventures.
What you can tow with the 2023 Toyota RAV4?
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 has a towing capacity ranging from 1500 pounds to 3500 pounds, depending on the trim level and equipment. This means you can tow a variety of items such as small trailers, boats, and light-duty equipment.
However, it’s important to note that the weight of the trailer or equipment you plan to tow should not exceed the maximum weight rating listed in the Owner’s Manual for your specific RAV4 model.
In addition, you should always confirm that your vehicle and trailer are compatible before towing, and ensure that both are hooked up and loaded properly.
Here are a few examples of what you could potentially tow with the 2023 Toyota RAV4, depending on the specific model and equipment:
- A small camper trailer, such as the Forest River R-Pod, which has a dry weight of around 2,500 pounds.
- A small boat, such as the Sun Dolphin Pro 120, which has a weight of around 2000 pounds when fully loaded.
- A utility trailer, such as the Carry-On Trailer 5x8G, which has a weight capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.
- A motorcycle or ATV trailer, such as the Aluma MC10, which has a weight capacity of up to 1,500 pounds.
Remember to always follow the specific instructions in your Owner’s Manual related to towing and use caution when towing any load.
2023 Toyota RAV4 Models
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 comes in a variety of models and trims to meet the needs of different drivers. Whether you’re looking for a standard gasoline model or a hybrid, the RAV4 offers an option for everyone.
The available models and trims for the 2023 RAV4 are LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Woodland Edition, Hybrid XLE Premium, Hybrid SE, Hybrid XSE, Hybrid Limited, Prime SE, and Prime XSE.
Each model and trim offers a unique set of features and capabilities to suit various preferences.
No matter which RAV4 model or trim you choose, you can trust that it will offer a reliable and high-performing vehicle for all your driving needs.
From its impressive towing capacity to its fuel-efficient hybrid options, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 is a versatile SUV that is designed to deliver exceptional performance and style.
Towing Capacity by Models
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 comes in a range of models and trims to fit your specific needs.
| Model/Trim | Curb Weight (lb.) | Fuel Tank (gal.) | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) (lb.) | Payload (lb.) | Seating Capacity | Towing Capacity (lb.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LE | 3380 | 14.5 | 4610 | 1230 (FWD) | 5 | 1500 |
| XLE | 3450 (FWD) | 14.5 | 4610 | 1160 (FWD) | 5 | 1500 |
| XLE Premium | 3450 | 14.5 | 4610 | 1160 | 5 | 1500 |
| Adventure | 3680 | 14.5 | 4705 | 1025 | 5 | 3500 |
| TRD Off-Road | 3680 | 14.5 | 4705 | 1025 | 5 | 3500 |
| Limited | 3510 (FWD) | 14.5 | 4610 | 1100 | 5 | 1500 |
| Hybrid LE | 3710 | 14.5 | 4920 | 1210 | 5 | 1750 |
| Hybrid XLE | 3775 | 14.5 | 4920 | 1145 | 5 | 1750 |
| Hybrid Woodland Edition | 3775 | 14.5 | 4920 | 1145 | 5 | 1750 |
| Hybrid XLE Premium | 3755 | 14.5 | 4920 | 1145 | 5 | 1750 |
| Hybrid SE | 3780 (FWD) | 14.5 | 4920 | 1140 | 5 | 1750 |
| Hybrid XSE | 3805 | 14.5 | 4920 | 1115 | 5 | 1750 |
| Hybrid Limited | 3805 | 14.5 | 4920 | 1115 | 5 | 1750 |
| Prime SE | 4235 | 14.5 | 5530 | 1295 | 5 | 2500 |
| Prime XSE | 4300 | 14.5 | 5530 | 1230 | 5 | 2500 |
LE
The LE model boasts a curb weight of 3380 lb. and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4610 lb. It is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with 203 hp and features a direct shift 8-speed automatic transmission with normal, eco, and sport drive modes.
With a front-wheel drive (FWD) system, the LE has a seating capacity of 5 and a towing capacity of 1500 lb.
XLE and XLE Premium
The XLE model has a slightly higher curb weight of 3450 lb. (FWD) and shares the same features as the LE. The XLE Premium also has a curb weight of 3450 lb. and adds features such as SofTex-trimmed seats and a power tilt/slide moonroof.
Adventure
For those who love adventure, the Adventure trim has a curb weight of 3680 lb. and a GVWR of 4705 lb. It has a payload of 1025 lb. and can tow up to 3500 lb. The TRD Off-Road model shares the same weight and towing capacity as the Adventure.
Limited
The Limited trim, with a curb weight of 3510 lb. (FWD), has a GVWR of 4610 lb. and a towing capacity of 1500 lb. It also has features such as leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and a premium audio system.
Hybrid Models
The hybrid models, including the Hybrid LE, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid Woodland Edition, Hybrid XLE Premium, Hybrid SE, Hybrid XSE, and Hybrid Limited, have a range of curb weights from 3710 lb. to 3805 lb. and a GVWR of 4920 lb. All the hybrid models have a seating capacity of 5 and a towing capacity of 1750 lb.
Prime SE and Prime XSE
The Prime SE and Prime XSE are the two highest-end trims, with curb weights of 4235 lb. and 4300 lb., respectively. They both have a GVWR of 5530 lb. and a seating capacity of 5. The Prime SE has a payload of 1295 lb. and a towing capacity of 2500 lb., while the Prime XSE has a payload of 1230 lb. and the same towing capacity of 2500 lb.
Guidelines for Safe Towing
Here are some bullets for the safety measures related to towing with a 2023 Toyota RAV4:
- Always confirm that your vehicle and trailer are compatible before towing, and ensure that both are hooked up and loaded properly. You may need additional equipment to safely tow your trailer.
- Do not exceed any Weight Ratings listed for your vehicle, and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual related to towing.
- The maximum weight you can tow depends on the base curb weight of your vehicle plus the weight of any cargo, passengers, and added equipment. This includes any standard or optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealer, or owner.
- To determine your vehicle’s exact curb weight, it’s necessary to weigh your vehicle without any passengers or cargo, using the new SAE J2807 method.
- If you install a tow hitch receiver or other accessories near the rear bumper of your vehicle, you may need to disable or remove the kick sensor.
- Check your Owner’s Manual for specific instructions and limitations related to the kick sensor operation.
- Before towing, make sure to confirm that the Stop and Start Engine System is disengaged. This applies only to V6 gas models.
Useful Resources
2023 Toyota RAV4 Brochure (Towing Capacity Guide) PDF
Conclusion
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is a versatile crossover SUV that can handle a wide range of towing needs. The maximum towing capacity of the 2023 Toyota RAV4 ranges from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the engine type, transmission, and drive.
The vehicle is available in various models and trims, including gasoline and hybrid models, with each offering a unique set of features and capabilities to suit different preferences. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is an impressive vehicle that delivers exceptional performance and style, with its impressive towing capacity and fuel-efficient hybrid options.
No matter which model or trim you choose, you can trust the Toyota RAV4 to offer a reliable and high-performing vehicle for all your driving needs.
Explore Capacities by Vehicle Make
