Toyota Hilux Towing Capacity & Specs
Everything you need to know about legally and safely towing with your Toyota Hilux variants.
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Toyota Hilux?
The maximum braked towing capacity for most modern Toyota Hilux 4x4 models (like the SR5 and Rogue) is 3,500 kg. Unbraked towing capacity is capped at 750 kg across all variants.
However, achieving this 3,500 kg limit in the real world is extremely difficult. You cannot legally tow 3,500 kg if your Hilux is fully loaded with passengers, fuel, and accessories (like a bullbar or canopy), because you will likely exceed the vehicle's Gross Combination Mass (GCM).
2024-2026 Toyota Hilux Towing Specs by Variant
Note: Specifications can vary slightly by exact year and cab type (Double Cab, Extra Cab, Single Cab). Always check your vehicle's compliance plate.
| Model Variant | Drivetrain | Braked Towing | Max GVM | Max GCM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilux Workmate | 4x2 / 2.7L Petrol | 2,500 kg | 2,700 kg | 5,200 kg |
| Hilux SR | 4x4 / 2.8L Diesel | 3,500 kg | 3,050 kg | 5,850 kg |
| Hilux SR5 | 4x4 / 2.8L Diesel | 3,500 kg | 3,050 kg | 5,850 kg |
| Hilux Rogue | 4x4 / 2.8L Diesel | 3,500 kg | 3,050 kg | 5,850 kg |
Real-World Math: Why you can't always tow 3,500 kg
Let's take a standard Toyota Hilux SR5 (GCM: 5,850 kg, Kerb Weight: ~2,110 kg). If you hook up a 3,500 kg caravan, you have used up 5,610 kg of your GCM allowance.
This leaves you with only 240 kg for everything else. That 240 kg must include:
- Your weight and your passengers' weight (e.g., 2 adults = ~160 kg)
- Any vehicle accessories like a steel bullbar (~60 kg)
- Your luggage and gear in the tub
As you can see, with just 2 adults and a bullbar, you are already over your legal limit before you even pack a bag!
Stop guessing. Calculate your exact payload.
Use our free visual calculator to input your exact Hilux numbers and see if you are legally safe to hit the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Toyota Hilux tow a caravan?
Yes, the Hilux is one of the most popular vehicles for towing caravans in Australia. 4x4 models can tow up to 3,500 kg, making them capable of hauling medium to large caravans, provided you manage your payload correctly.
What is the maximum Tow Ball Weight (TBW) for a Hilux?
Toyota specifies a maximum Tow Ball Download of 350 kg for models with a 3,500 kg towing capacity. Remember that this tow ball weight pushes down on the rear axle and eats directly into your vehicle's payload capacity.
Which Hilux variant is best for towing?
The 4x4 variants with the 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine (like the SR, SR5, and Rogue) are best suited for towing, as they offer the maximum 3,500 kg braked capacity and strong low-end torque for pulling heavy loads up hills.