Will it pull the boat out

[shortrun]

Just a question from a non owner.

But I'm considering this for my next vehical.

I need to know if it can pull my boat (17 foot fishing boat) out of the water. The landing I us is all sand and 4wd is necessary. All 4 wheels have to have power to them or I just get stuck.

Is the highlander hybrid up to the task?

Thanks Brian

[TRD BlackKnight]

It has enough power and descent towing capacity, but Toyota has a disclaimer that states, "The Highlander Hybrid is not designed to be driven off-road." You may need a 4-wheel drive system that locks in the center for equal distribution of torque (50/50) to the front and back. Remeber your tires play a big role in traction, too. If 4wd is absolutely necessary, then I would consider a 4Runner, although the fuel economy would not be there.

[shortrun]

Thanks

What about the normal (non Hybrid) Highlander 4wd?
I was reading and I understood it has real 4wd, as apposed to All wheel drive.

I'm not sure I need to lock the differentials, at least I haven't had to yet on my Mazda MPV (generation 1) which can operate in 2wd, 4wd, or differential lock modes.

[Wolfman]

Originally Posted by shortrun

Thanks

What about the normal (non Hybrid) Highlander 4wd?
I was reading and I understood it has real 4wd, as apposed to All wheel drive.

I'm not sure I need to lock the differentials, at least I haven't had to yet on my Mazda MPV (generation 1) which can operate in 2wd, 4wd, or differential lock modes.

the gas highlander still uses an on demand all wheel drive system with no locking center differential

[ndabunka]

Originally Posted by Wolfman

the gas highlander still uses an on demand all wheel drive system with no locking center differential

Which, based on your prior post appears to be all you would need since your prior truck didn't need the locking diff either. As an FYI, there ARE reports of 4x4 Highland Hybrid's getting stuck in mid-level snow (8 to 12 inches). The FACT is that the Hybrid 4wd system is NOTHING like a traditional 4x4 system. It works OK for "very light" duty snow but will NOT work for sand or deep mud. In fact, you can't even SPIN the wheels INTENTIONALLY on the Hybrid's. You push down on the accelerator and NOTHING happens. It's GOT to be pretty frustrating when it does happen. having said all that I have had success in light (under 6 inches) of fresh snow in the W. Virginia mountains so while it may work for snow, I would not try it in sand.

[CamrySExxx]

Originally Posted by shortrun

Just a question from a non owner.

But I'm considering this for my next vehical.

I need to know if it can pull my boat (17 foot fishing boat) out of the water. The landing I us is all sand and 4wd is necessary. All 4 wheels have to have power to them or I just get stuck.

Is the highlander hybrid up to the task?

Thanks Brian

What are you currently using to pull your boat out of the water?

We use our old ass 93 mazda mpv mini van to tow our 17ft boat . The underpowered 3L RWd does the trick. The tires sometimes spin a bit due to being on gravel but it does the job. Im pretty sure a newer highlander is capable (not sure about hybrid though)