How to Install a Tow Hitch on a Toyota Highlander
Toyota recently launched the fully redesigned 2020 Highlander model to favorable reviews. People seem to really enjoy the sophisticated and luxurious exterior styling. The interior cabin has been modernized with a pleasant, inviting and open atmosphere. Drivers will find plenty of new features that keep their families safer, assist in limiting distractions and help them stay more connected technologically than ever before.
However, there is one area that is in need of improvement on the 2020 Toyota Highlander. Yes, that one feature that many families require for their active and outdoor lifestyles.
On some Highlander trim levels you cannot yet get a factory-installed tow hitch.
Tow hitch for 2020 Highlander
This question is one of the most common ones I get from Torque News readers and my "Toyotajeff" YouTube channel followers: "Why can't you get a tow hitch for Highlander?" It is a fair question.
First things first, all 2020 Highlander gasoline-only grades have a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Highlander Hybrid trim levels will have a tow capacity of 3,500 pounds. That would be, as Rick Springfield sang it so well, a moot point.
There is no issue getting a tow hitch for a 2020 Highlander L, LE or XLE. The problem is with Limited and Limited Platinum. This includes both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive grades, along with soon-to-be-released Highlander Hybrid. You are not able to currently order these trim levels with a factory-installed hitch.
Tow hitch, or not tow hitch, that is the question
At face level, you would think there should not be any issue getting a tow hitch for anything that has the words 2020 Highlander and Limited/Platinum together. But, these models come equipped with a standard hands-free power liftgate. In other words, they have built-in sensors that allow foot-operated opening and closing of the back hatch.
Frankly this is very practical and cool technology.
VIDEO REVIEW: I compare 2020 Highlander XLE vs Limited so you can pick the best one for you and your family.
These sensors are located in a way where, if a hitch were installed simultaneously, it would interfere with the sensors and foot-activation functions. Therefore, as of right now, you will not be able to install a factory hitch.
How to get a hitch for 2020 Highlander
I reached out to a Toyota representative and they said they are aware of the issue and are working toward a remedy, although a timeframe was not mentioned.
There may be a short-term solution, although it is certainly not a best-case scenario. You might be able to contact your local Toyota dealership accessories department about installing an aftermarket tow hitch. If installed, it would not allow for foot-activated operations, though. I guess I am saying that if you do not care about ever using this foot-motion power liftgate, then it might be an option to consider.
I will give you updates on Torque News / Toyota News page here as I get them.
Time for your thoughts on 2020 Toyota Highlander and hitches
Are you in the market in the near future for a Toyota Highlander, and if so, would a hitch be important in your decision-making process? What trim level do you think is ideal for you and your family? Are you considering the Hybrid, and if so, what are the reasons for your decision?
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: See key highlights of 2020 Highlander Hybrid Limited in this exclusive review. Please subscribe to Torque News YouTube channel for automotive and Toyota analysis.
Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I reveal a new timeline for the launch of next-gen 4Runner.
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How to Install a Tow Hitch on a Toyota Highlander
Source: https://www.torquenews.com/6626/why-you-cannot-get-tow-hitch-some-2020-toyota-highlander-models