Should I Install A Class 2 Or Class 3 Hitch On My 2024 Toyota RAV4?

Updated 03/18/2026 | Published 03/09/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(228)

$223.69

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(885)

$72.27

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(218)

$199.31

Question:

What size tow package do you recommend for a Toyota Rav 4, ClassII or Class III?

asked by: Edward G

Expert Reply:

Hi Edward!

Whenever it is available, I always recommend going Class 3 over Class 2. There are just more options available for accessories and other things for the Class 3 hitches and I think you will be happier with it in the long run. So I say go with the Curt Class III Hitch # C77MJ over the Class II # C66KR for your 2024 Toyota RAV4.

You will also want to grab the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C56434. This is plug and play, though you will need to run one wire up to the battery for needed power. It also stores inside the vehicle when not in use, so you do not need anything to mount it near the hitch, which is nice.

What are you going to be towing with your RAV4? Or are you wanting it for like a bike rack or something like that?

expert reply by: Lazer S

Curt Class III Hitch C77MJ On RAV4
(click to enlarge)

Marshall

3/13/2026

That completely depends on your application. You need to check the owners manual and figure out if your RAV4 has the 1,500lb or the 3,500lb rating. In either application the class 2 should be fine. I had a class 3 on my 2019 Adventure but I was doing regular towing. Definitely figure out trailer brakes as well. You don’t need anything too fancy for the RAV4 unless you plan on towing very often. If you plan on towing anything big definitely get a weight distribution hitch. I can’t stress that enough. The RAV4 says it can take 300lbs in the rear but that’s a total lie and you absolutely need to get a WDH if your tongue weight is bottoming out the rear suspension. Those are just my thoughts as someone who towed a 2,500lb camper all summer with a RAV4.

Lazer S.

3/18/2026

@Marshall While you are correct in that a Class2 will probably be fine, the 2" receivers on the Class 3 hitches just allow for a wider variety of accessories. I think they are the way to go when available. Good call on the weight distribution system though. ^___^

Mitchell A.

3/14/2026

A Class 3 (2-inch) hitch is the best choice for a 2024 Toyota RAV4, offering maximum versatility for accessories like bike racks or small trailers. While the RAV4's towing capacity is limited (1,500–3,500 lbs depending on trim), a Class 3 provides superior strength, safety, and compatibility for heavy accessories. Even with a Class 3, you are limited by the vehicle's capacity. Standard gas models tow up to 1,500 lbs, Hybrids up to 1,750 lbs, and the RAV4 Prime up to 2,500 lbs. A 2-inch receiver (Class 3) offers the widest selection of cargo carriers, bike racks, and ball mounts. I went with the C77MJ Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" for my 2020 Hybrid Limited.

Lazer S.

3/18/2026

@MitchellA Couldn't agree more. There is just more stuff available for the 2" receivers. And good call mentioning the higher rated hitch not making your vehicle able to carry/tow more. You are always limited by the lowest rated component. Have fun out there! ^___^