Towing a utility trailer with 2020 Rav4 XLE AWD

[The Captain]

Trying to help out a neighbor who just picked up a 2020 Rav4 XLE AWD. He wants to use it to tow a 5x8 utility trailer loaded with lawn equipment for his small landscaping side hustle. Says the total weight is around 1,700 pounds including the trailer, mower, and tools. Short distances, nothing over 15 miles one way, mostly city driving with some stop-and-go.

He's a little nervous since the owner's manual says max tow is 1,500 pounds for the XLE. I told him people fudge that number all the time, but still figured I'd ask around. Anyone actually running a similar setup? How's the transmission hold up? Does it struggle off the line? Planning to add a class III hitch and wiring soon.

Not sure if he should risk it or start looking for an older Tacoma.

 

[cRAVe4you]

So, towing 1,700 pounds with a RAV4 XLE AWD definitely pushes past that 1,500-pound rating. I get it, people do it all the time, but it's important to remember that it puts a lot of strain on the transmission, brakes, and suspension, especially when you're stuck in stop-and-go traffic.

If he's really committed to this, he should look into getting a solid Class III hitch, decent wiring, and preferably some trailer brakes too. That'll make a world of difference. And it's critical to keep an eye on those transmission temperatures while driving. Easier starts will be key to avoid any unnecessary wear and tear.

But honestly, if he's planning on hauling that kind of weight regularly, it might be wiser to go for something like a Tacoma or another vehicle that can handle more. Just a thought.

Has anyone actually tried towing like this? I'd love to hear how it worked out for you

 

[RioMancer05]

I think thats a bit over the 1.5k lb limit, though I think it should be fine if its only for short and lowspeed trips. Lots of people push that limit without issues, especially with the right hitch and wiring. But if he plans to haul regularly, a Tacoma or something more capable might be the smarter move.

 

[LilyOfTheValley]

Trying to help out a neighbor who just picked up a 2020 Rav4 XLE AWD. He wants to use it to tow a 5x8 utility trailer loaded with lawn equipment for his small landscaping side hustle. Says the total weight is around 1,700 pounds including the trailer, mower, and tools. Short distances, nothing over 15 miles one way, mostly city driving with some stop-and-go.

He's a little nervous since the owner's manual says max tow is 1,500 pounds for the XLE. I told him people fudge that number all the time, but still figured I'd ask around. Anyone actually running a similar setup? How's the transmission hold up? Does it struggle off the line? Planning to add a class III hitch and wiring soon.

Not sure if he should risk it or start looking for an older Tacoma.

It can handle it in short bursts, but.. not sure if it will hold up tbh. If he's doing this often, he should just check classifieds to find something built tougher for him. Enough with this.

 

[Captain Hulk]

@The Captain I'd say it's doable for a few short trips, but pushing past the rated limit regularly is risky. If he's serious about towing often, a Tacoma or something bigger would save a lot of headaches. I agree with @cRAVe4you. Those transmission temps can spike fast, so better safe than sorry.

 

[Alan]

Hey @The Captain, yeah 1,700 pounds is a little over the XLE’s limit.