Toyota RAV4 Adventure Towing Capacity

The Toyota RAV4 Adventure has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,090 lbs.
Written by Jacqulyn Graber
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The towing capacity of the Toyota RAV4 Adventure maxes out at 3,500 lbs, and the compact SUV has a maximum payload capacity of 1,090 lbs. 
Understanding your SUV’s towing capacity is important, especially if you’re thinking of attaching a trailer to take your
car camping
, complete some yard work, or assist with a move. In general, SUVs are capable of some towing—but your car’s size, engine power, transmission, and more will affect the exact weight it can haul.
We've created this handy guide that includes everything you need to know about your RAV4 Adventure’s towing capacity, including tips on how to ensure you get the maximum towing capacity possible. 
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How much can a Toyota RAV4 Adventure tow?

Maximum towing capacity: 3,500 lbs
Engine: 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine
The
Toyota RAV4
is an efficient and affordable midsize SUV with a variety of trim levels, including the Adventure option. Starting at $33,995, the Adventure is equipped with all-wheel drive and a 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque for maximum towing power.
Given the compact SUV’s reputation as a small family vehicle, its 3,500-pound towing capacity is quite respectable. Keep in mind that the Adventure’s engine and all-wheel-drive capabilities contribute greatly to its towing capacity, meaning you won’t experience as great results at lower trim levels.

Trailer hitches for the Toyota RAV4 Adventure 

If you’re buying a brand new Toyota RAV4 Adventure, you’ll have the option to add on a tow hitch receiver and wiring harness, which will make your vehicle connectable to a
Toyota trailer hitch
kit and the electrical wires of a trailer. 
Once you purchase your Adventure, you’ll have to add a tow hitch kit, such as the fan-favorite
CURT 13146 Class 3
, which is rated for up to 6,000 pounds gross trailer weight—well over the Adventure’s maximum limit. 

How to calculate the towing capacity you need

So just how much towing capacity will you need to complete the job in question? Your vehicle’s towing capacity should always be greater than the largest load you intend to pull, so before purchasing an Adventure, ensure that you’ll never need to tow anything larger than 3,500 lbs.
With your Adventure’s all-wheel-drive activated, you can expect to pull any of the following items (we’ve included their typical estimated weights):
  • Canoe or kayak trailer (600 to 800 lbs)
  • Motorcycle trailer (800 to 3,000 lbs)
  • Some small pop-up campers (2,800 to 4,300 lbs)
  • Some small utility trailers (up to 5,000 lbs)
If you want to take your Adventure camping or use it to pull your motorcycle, it’ll have no trouble getting the job done. But if you crave big camping trips or require a vehicle that can haul heavy machinery to a job site, you may need to consider a larger SUV.
And don’t forget—every load is different, so always check the total weight of your trailer and hitch after it’s completely full. Don’t forget to factor in the vehicle’s weight as well as the weight of any passengers and cargo! 

How to increase towing capacity

Once again, you’ll never want to tow more than 3,500 lbs with your Toyota RAV4 Adventure. Follow these steps to make sure that you’re maximizing your Adventure’s towing capacity—and staying safe while doing so:
  • Add weight-distribution hitch. This will reduce sway when you’re on the road and take the strain off the suspension
  • Switch out your brake pads and rotors for heavier loads
  • Install a bigger radiator to keep your engine cool
  • Add stronger axles, such as RV axles, to better support the weight of the load and your vehicle
It’s also essential to keep in mind that some upgrades—as well as other factors—can decrease your SUV’s towing capacity. For example, opting for larger aftermarket rims could put more pressure on your engine, and the weather and terrain will have a big effect on your Adventure’s capabilities.
No upgrades or
vehicle modifications
will allow your Adventure to pull more than 3,500 lbs. If you’re looking for an SUV capable of hauling larger loads, you’ll have to invest in something a bit bigger. Full-size SUVs such as the
Ford Expedition
, which has a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, or the
Dodge Durango SRT R/T
, which has a rating of 8,700 pounds, are two great examples.
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How to find affordable car insurance

No matter what you’re planning to haul behind your Aventure, make sure you’ve got the right insurance coverage for the right price. You can avoid overpaying for car insurance for any SUV by downloading Jerry, the #1 rated insurance app. 
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FAQs

The Adventure is a higher trim level of the Toyota RAV4, a compact SUV. Its all-wheel-drive capabilities and upgraded engine allow it to tow a maximum of 3,500 lbs, which is perfect if you’re looking to tow smaller loads such as motorcycle or kayak trailers. If you’re looking to tow larger loads, like trailers and campers, it probably won’t hold up well.
As long as you opt for the optional tow hitch receiver and wiring harness, you’ll have no trouble adding on an aftermarket tow hitch package.
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