Does Maximum Towing Weight Listed On A Trailer Hitch For A Toyota Prius Mean It Can Tow That Amount

Question:

we are considering purchasing a Toyota Prius. I noticed on your tow package the tongue weight of 200 pounds with a towing weight o 2000 pounds max. We belong to a private lake and occationally need to launch our boat bring it from the covered boat storage area to the water about 100 yards. Even thoug we will be exceeding the Max towing capacity as the boat weights about 2800 pounds plus the trailer do you see any issues with your hitch configuration for just that purpose? tongue weight on the boat is roughly 90 pounds so we should be ok from that stand point. Obviously we we no be dumb enough to put it on the road. Thanks

asked by: Scott T

Expert Reply:

When you install a hitch like the Draw-Tite Class I 1-1/4 Inch Hitch, part # 24847, on a 2011 Toyota Prius it does not mean that your vehicle can now tow 2,000 lbs. That is just the maximum towing weight capacity for that hitch. If the vehicle that the hitch it goes on has a lower towing weight capacity, then the lowest weight capacity is what is used as the maximum towing weight capacity for your towing setup.

You will want to check your owners manual or with the Toyota dealer for the gross towing weight capacity of your Toyota Prius to make sure the towing capacity is not exceeded. I do not think that the Toyota Prius is going to have a very high towing weight capacity or if you will even be able to tow with that vehicle.

I would not recommend to tow anything that will weigh more than what is listed as the maximum towing capacity on your Toyota Prius.

Most of the trailer hitches designed for the Toyota Prius are used for bike racks or cargo carriers.

expert reply by: Jeff D