How Much Can a RAV4 Tow?

If you’re in the market for a new car and are wondering whether or not to buy a RAV4, you may be wondering just how much can a RAV4 tow.

The answer, it turns out, depends on the specific model of RAV4 that you choose. Some current models of the RAV4 can tow up to 3,600 lb, while others are limited to just 1,700 lb.

So if you’re planning on using your car to tow a camper trailer (like a heavy Airstream) or another large object, be sure to check the weight specifications before making your final decision.

In general, however, the RAV4 is considered a good choice for towing duties thanks to its combination of size and power. So if you’re looking for a small, but capable car to take on your camping trips, the RAV4 may be just right for you.

In this article, we’re going to look at the different generations of the Toyota RAV4, starting back in 1994, all the way up to the current line-up, and see just how much each model can tow.

How much can a RAV4 tow?

Through all the generations of Toyota RAV4, the towing capacity has ranged between 1,763 lb (800 kg) and 4,409 lb (2,000 kg).

The current generation of RAV4 has a towing capacity of up to 3,638 lb (1,650 kg).

Since the first RAV4s hit the market in 1994, Toyota has always aimed for the RAV4 to be able to tow close to 3,307 lb (1,500 kg) with ease.

Since then, 5 generations have been produced with many different variants, so let’s take a closer look at each individual generation in more detail.

1994-2000 Toyota RAV4 (XA10) towing capacity

The 1994 to 2000 Toyota RAV4 has a maximum towing capacity ranging from 2,646 lb (1,200 kg) to 3,307 lb (1,500 kg).

This is the year that the RAV4 was introduced and it shared a lot of its underpinnings with that of the Toyota Corollas and Carinas.

Toyota even produced a full-electric version, the RAV4 EV, that was sold in California, but only 1,484 were ever sold.

2001-2005 Toyota RAV4 (AX20) towing capacity

RAV4s made between 2000 and 2005 have a max towing capacity between 2,204 lb (1,000 kg) and 3,307 lb (1,500 kg).

The second generation of RAV4 saw the introduction of 2WD and also different options for engines ranging from 1.8 to 2.4-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engines, and also the first 2.0 4-cylinder turbo diesel.

2006-2012 Toyota RAV4 (XA30) towing capacity

From 2006 to 2012, Toyota RAV4 models produced came with a maximum towing capacity between 3,307 lb (1,500 kg) and 4,409 lb (2,000 kg).

The 3rd generation RAV4 was the first to have its own underpinnings built on an entirely new platform and also the first to use electronic power steering.

It was also the first generation with no short-wheelbase 3-door model.

It also saw the return of the RAV EV, with the second generation being co-developed with Tesla.

*l indicates a facelift and ll is the second facelift.

2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 (AX40) towing capacity

The 2013 to 2018 Toyota RAV4 has a towing capacity ranging from 3,307 lb (1,500 kg) to 4,409 lb (2,000 kg).

The fourth-generation RAV4 moved away from the classic side-opening rear door system to a liftgate layout, and they also discontinued the V6 engine in this generation.

This was also the first generation available with Toyota’s well-known hybrid system.

*+l indicates the facelifted model is also included, while l indicates just the facelifted model.

2019-present Toyota RAV4 (XA50) Towing Capacity

The latest generation of Toyota RAV4 has a towing capacity ranging between 1,763 lb (800 kg) and 3,638 lb (1,650 kg).

With the launch of the fifth-generation RAV4, Toyota moved away from diesel and focused on adding more hybrid models to their line-up.

They even added a plug-in hybrid variant to the line-up in December of 2019.

Wrapping Up

The RAV4 is a great vehicle for towing. As you can see from the info above, the majority of RAV4s have a high towing capacity and can tow many different types of trailers.

If you are looking for a vehicle that can handle your towing needs, the RAV4 is an excellent choice. If you need more cargo capacity, you can also get a roof rack for your Toyota RAV4.

Which model is right for you though may depend on your specific towing needs as well as other factors that need to be taken into consideration when looking for a new (or previously loved) car.

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