Toyota Prius Gains Towing Capability for 2016
The fourth-generation Toyota Prius can now tow up to 725kg, marking the first time the hybrid has been rated for trailer use and expanding its appeal to new buyers.
For the 2016 model year, Toyota has given the Prius its first factory-approved towing capability, allowing owners to pull a trailer or light caravan weighing up to 725kg. This change marks a notable shift for the world’s best-selling hybrid, which previously was not rated to tow at all.
Toyota’s decision to approve towing on the fourth-generation Prius follows technical changes to the hybrid’s electric motor-generator and differential. Improved heat management has allowed the system to cope with the extra load of pulling a trailer, something earlier Prius models could not manage. The new rating covers both braked and unbraked trailers within the 725kg limit, making it suitable for a small caravan or typical camping trailer.
Accessory options and practicality
To support the new capability, Toyota now offers compatible towing hitches and wiring systems as official accessories. The hitch includes clear green and red indicators to show when a secure connection has been made. When not in use, the towing arm detaches and can be stored in a dedicated bag in the boot. All connecting hardware is tucked away under the rear bumper, so the Prius’s distinctive styling is unchanged.
Safety and previous limitations
Earlier Prius generations were not approved for towing, largely due to concerns over hybrid drivetrain durability under sustained load. The 2016 Prius’s upgraded cooling and drivetrain components address this, and the model has also achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The towing hardware is designed to have no impact on crash safety or normal driving when stowed.
