2021 Honda Pilot towing capacity
Updated 2026-09-29 · Source: Honda Info Center, 2021 Pilot feature guide, Towing Capacity
The 2021 Honda Pilot tows up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. For this model year, ratings range from 3,500 lb to 5,000 lb by trim, cab, engine and tow package.Honda does not publish payload in this document; check the placard on the driver's door pillar.
- Max towing
- 5,000lb
- Max payload
- n/a
- GVWR
- n/a
- Curb weight
- n/a
Towing capacity by configuration
Bars are the manufacturer's rating for each published configuration; the darkest bar is the maximum.
| Configuration | Engine | Towing | Payload | GVWR | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2WD | 3.5L V6 | 3,500 | n/a | n/a | |
| AWD | 3.5L V6 | 5,000 | n/a | n/a |
Check a trailer against this Pilot
Not sure which row is yours? Decode your VIN to narrow it by cab, drivetrain and engine.
What changed from 2020
The 2021 maximum is 5,000 lb, the same as in 2020. Honda lists its 2021 configurations differently from 2020, so the two tables are not compared row by row. 2020 Honda Pilot towing capacity.
How to read these numbers
Towing capacity assumes a lightly loaded truck. Passengers, cargo and the trailer's tongue weight all count against payload, which usually runs out first.
Full explanations: GVWR vs GCWR vs payload and how tongue weight eats payload.
Source: Honda Info Center, 2021 Pilot feature guide, Towing Capacity. Confirm your vehicle's ratings on the certification label in the driver's door jamb.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a 2021 Honda Pilot tow?
Up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. The lowest-rated configuration listed (3.5L V6, 2WD) is rated at 3,500 lb, and the highest (3.5L V6, AWD) at 5,000 lb.
What is the payload capacity of a 2021 Honda Pilot?
Honda does not publish payload in the document we used; the figure for your exact vehicle is on the tire and loading placard on the driver's door pillar. Payload includes passengers, cargo and the trailer's tongue weight, so it is usually the limit you reach first. The Honda document we used does not list GVWR; yours is on the certification label in the driver's door jamb.
Does the 2021 Honda Pilot need a tow package to reach its maximum rating?
Honda: Maximum towing capacity for AWD trims is 5,000 lbs. Maximum towing capacity for 2WD models is 3,500 lbs. Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Configurations without the package carry a lower rating; see the note column in the table above.
Can a 2021 Honda Pilot tow a travel trailer?
A configuration rated at 5,000 lb can handle a trailer with a loaded weight of roughly 4,000 lb while keeping a 20% safety margin, provided passengers, cargo and tongue weight stay within the payload on your door-pillar placard. Run your exact numbers in the towing calculator.