Honda models that can tow include Ridgeline, Pilot, and Passport (up to 5,000 pounds) with the proper tow package; the Odyssey minivan up to 3,500 pounds; and smaller models like the CR-V (up to 1,500 pounds) and HR-V (about 1,000 pounds). Always verify the exact figure for your model year and trim, and ensure you have the correct hitch and towing equipment installed.
Beyond the quick answer, this guide breaks down official towing capacities by model, explains the equipment needed to achieve those ratings, and offers safety tips for towing with a Honda. The goal is to help buyers and current owners determine which Honda fits their trailer-towing needs and how to tow responsibly.
Honda towing capacity by model
Here are the current official towing figures for Honda models that offer trailer-towing capabilities, as equipped with the proper tow packages and accessories.
- Honda Ridgeline: up to 5,000 pounds with the factory tow package and proper equipment
- Honda Pilot: up to 5,000 pounds with the factory tow package and appropriate drivetrain
- Honda Passport: up to 5,000 pounds with the tow package
- Honda Odyssey: up to 3,500 pounds with the available towing package
- Honda CR-V: up to 1,500 pounds with the tow package
- Honda HR-V: up to 1,000 pounds with proper hitching and equipment
These figures assume the vehicle is properly equipped, the trailer is within its own weight limits, and driving conditions meet the manufacturer’s recommendations. Always check the exact specification for your year and trim in the owner's manual or on Honda's official site.
Tow equipment and safety
To tow safely and effectively, you’ll need to consider the equipment and best practices that apply across Honda models. This section outlines the essentials to help you prepare for a trailer-towing task.
Tow package specifics
Honda’s Tow Package typically includes a higher-capacity cooling system, a compatible hitch, wiring harness, and sometimes trailer-stability enhancements. These components are often required to unlock the model’s stated towing rating and to ensure safe operation while towing.
- Tow package contents: hitch, wiring harness, upgraded cooling, and possibly trailer sway control
- Proper hitch and receiver: verify the correct class and receiver size (commonly 2-inch) for your trailer
- Electrical connections: ensure wiring is compatible with trailer lights and brakes
- Brake considerations: trailers may require brakes above certain weights; some setups use a brake controller integrated with the vehicle
- Tire and load management: account for tongue weight, payload, and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
With the appropriate tow package and correct equipment, Honda models listed above can tow within their official limits while providing added safety features and reliability for longer or heavier towing tasks.
Choosing the right Honda for your trailer
When selecting a Honda for towing, consider not just the tongue weight and trailer weight but also how often you’ll tow, the typical trailer load, and whether you need seating for passengers. If towing is a regular requirement, a larger SUV like the Pilot or a pickup-style option like the Ridgeline may be more suitable. For lighter duties, the CR-V or HR-V could suffice, provided you stay within their lower ratings.
Summary
In short, Honda’s lineup offers a range of towing capabilities: Ridgeline, Pilot, and Passport can pull up to 5,000 pounds with the right tow package; the Odyssey is capable of about 3,500 pounds; and smaller models like the CR-V and HR-V have modest capacities of 1,500 and 1,000 pounds respectively. Always confirm the exact figures for your model year and trim, equip the proper tow package, and follow safety guidelines to tow responsibly.