SUVs have cemented their place as a top choice for drivers, and it’s easy to see why. They masterfully blend spacious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and premium comfort. Beyond passenger perks, many SUVs also boast impressive off-road capabilities and substantial cargo space, delivering a smoother ride compared to traditional trucks. Thanks to their robust engines and often truck-derived frameworks, SUVs stand out as exceptional vehicles for towing, making them the Best Towing Suv option for many.
Whether you’re planning to transport a trailer loaded with recreational vehicles like motorcycles or UTVs, haul a boat for a weekend on the water, or bring an RV trailer for a longer adventure, selecting the right SUV is crucial. With the proper model, towing your essential gear becomes a seamless and stress-free part of your journey.
To simplify your search and guide you to the ideal vehicle, we have thoroughly examined the extensive SUV market to pinpoint the top performers for towing. Our selections are conveniently categorized by class—midsize, full-size, and luxury—to help you quickly identify the best towing suv that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Let’s delve into the specifics and discover the perfect SUV towing powerhouse ready to elevate your next adventure.
Top Midsize SUVs for Towing in 2025
2025 Nissan Pathfinder: Robust Towing Capacity up to 6,000 Pounds
Nissan has strategically revamped the Pathfinder, channeling a return to its more rugged origins. This redesign is evident in the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder‘s styling, which features a more robust aesthetic with subtle nods to its heritage. This midsize SUV is not just about looks; it’s built for capability.
For those with towing needs, whether it’s for camping, weekend trips, or hauling equipment, the latest Pathfinder marks a significant upgrade from its predecessors. Nissan replaced the CVT with a responsive nine-speed automatic transmission, paired with a potent 285-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine. To further enhance its towing prowess, an optional oil cooler is available on S, SL, and SV trims, and comes standard on Rock Creek and Platinum models. These enhancements collectively boost the Nissan Pathfinder‘s towing capacity to an impressive 6,000 pounds. This figure is a substantial 1,000 pounds more than what typical midsize crossovers can handle, positioning it as a leader in its class for towing.
Beyond towing, the Pathfinder doesn’t compromise on practicality. It offers a generous 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 45 cubic feet when the third row is folded down. This makes it a versatile choice, accommodating both passengers and cargo effectively. It’s also worth noting its seven-seat capacity, making it a great family-friendly best towing suv option.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Leading Midsize Towing at 7,200 Pounds
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L stands out as an exceptionally versatile SUV, perfectly suited for a wide spectrum of activities and towing demands. Both the extended Grand Cherokee L and the standard wheelbase Grand Cherokee are celebrated for their towing capabilities, but the ‘L’ variant distinguishes itself by offering a powerful 5.7L V8 engine option. This engine upgrade is key to its enhanced towing capacity.
Opting for the base V6-powered Grand Cherokee L, or any other Grand Cherokee model, provides a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. However, when equipped with the available 5.7L V8, the Grand Cherokee L’s towing capability jumps to an impressive 7,200 pounds. This significant increase positions the Grand Cherokee L as a top contender in the midsize SUV category for towing, offering substantial power and capacity for various towing needs.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency alongside towing capability, the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid presents a compelling alternative. This model delivers 375 horsepower and a robust 470 pound-feet of torque. While it doesn’t quite match the raw power of its V8 counterparts, it still offers a respectable towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The 4xe combines electric efficiency with towing ability, making it a forward-thinking choice within the best towing suv landscape.
Top Full-Size SUVs for Towing in 2025
2025 Chevrolet Suburban: Spacious and Strong, Towing up to 8,000 Pounds
While the 2025 Chevrolet Suburban offers slightly less towing capacity than the Tahoe, it remains a top-tier full-size SUV, especially when towing is a priority. The Suburban’s expansive interior is unmatched, making it ideal for large families or those who frequently need to transport significant amounts of gear.
The Suburban’s interior versatility is remarkable. With the front bench seat option, it can accommodate up to nine passengers. For cargo-focused needs, folding down the rear seats reveals an enormous 144.7 cubic feet of space. This flexibility makes the Suburban not just a towing vehicle but a highly adaptable family and utility SUV.
To achieve the maximum towing capacity of 8,000 pounds, it’s necessary to select the 2WD model equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine, which produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and importantly, add the Max Trailering Package. This package is essential for unlocking the Suburban’s full towing potential. While choosing 4WD or the 3.0L Turbo Diesel slightly reduces the max towing capacity, the Max Trailering Package remains crucial, adding an integrated trailer brake controller and adjusting the axle ratio to optimize towing performance.
For the 2025 model year, Chevrolet has significantly upgraded the Suburban’s cabin. It features new, larger screens and more luxurious materials, enhancing the overall driving and passenger experience. The 3.0L diesel engine has also been updated to a more powerful version, now delivering 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, improving performance and reducing noise, even though the towing capacity remains consistent. The Chevrolet Suburban remains a strong contender for the best towing suv in the full-size category.
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe: Powerful Towing up to 8,400 Pounds in a Stylish Package
The 2025 Chevy Tahoe combines style with substantial towing power, making it a highly appealing SUV for those who need to haul gear without sacrificing aesthetics or performance. It offers a choice of three engines, available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations, ensuring it can meet a variety of driver preferences and needs. The standard engine is a robust 5.3L V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, providing a solid foundation for both daily driving and towing tasks.
For enhanced power, drivers can opt for a 6.2L V8 engine that boosts output to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the upgraded 3.0L Duramax diesel engine for 2025 delivers 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 pound-feet of torque, capable of towing up to 8,200 pounds. This diesel option provides a blend of towing capability and improved fuel efficiency.
To achieve the maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds, the Chevy Tahoe requires the Max Trailering Package when paired with the 2WD 5.3L gas engine. Even without this package, the standard towing capacity of the 2025 Tahoe ranges from 7,700 to 7,900 pounds, which is still considerable. The Max Trailering Package includes essential features for towing, such as a trailer brake controller, the Advanced Trailering System in-truck app, hitch guidance with hitch view, and an extra-capacity cooling system. The Advanced Trailering System app further enhances the towing experience by allowing drivers to manage trailer profiles, pre-departure checklists, and monitor trailer tire pressure and temperature.
Additional high-tech features are available to simplify towing, including Trailer Sway Control, Trailer Theft Alert, and Hill Start Assist. These technologies not only make towing safer but also less stressful, solidifying the Chevrolet Tahoe’s position as a top choice for the best towing suv.
2025 GMC Yukon: Comfort and Capability in a Full-Size Towing SUV
The 2025 GMC Yukon, from Chevrolet’s sister brand, offers a compelling combination of towing capability and premium comfort. This full-size SUV is an excellent choice for those who need a robust trailering vehicle without compromising on luxury or convenience. The Yukon is equipped with features such as exclusive interior designs and up to 13 camera views, including High Definition Surround Vision, enhancing both safety and ease of use, especially when maneuvering with a trailer. Many drivers commend the Yukon for its exceptionally comfortable and smooth ride, often forgetting they are driving one of the most capable SUVs for towing.
To maximize the towing capacity at 8,400 pounds, opt for a rear-wheel-drive model with the standard 5.3L V8 engine, which delivers 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. Reaching this top towing figure also necessitates adding the Max Trailering Package, similar to its Chevrolet counterparts.
For those who can accept a slightly reduced towing capacity in favor of specific features or configurations, the Yukon AT4 and Denali models are still highly capable, managing up to 8,200 pounds when equipped with the Max Trailering Package. The AT4 model comes with all-wheel drive and the 5.3L V8, while the Denali features rear-wheel drive and a more powerful 420-horsepower 6.2L V8. Like the Chevrolet models, a 3.0L diesel engine option is also available for the Yukon, offering an alternative powertrain choice. The GMC Yukon effectively blends luxury with robust towing capability, making it a standout best towing suv.
2025 Toyota Sequoia: Leading Towing Capacity at 9,520 Pounds
Until 2021, the Toyota Land Cruiser held the title for the best towing SUV in Toyota’s lineup. However, since 2022, the 2025 Toyota Sequoia has claimed the throne. The all-new Sequoia is built on a modern body-on-frame chassis, sharing a fully boxed frame with the latest Toyota Tundra. This robust construction underpins its impressive towing capabilities, making it a true powerhouse in its segment. The Sequoia boasts a maximum trailer hauling capacity of 9,520 pounds, setting a high benchmark for full-size SUVs.
Powering this capability is the i-FORCE MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid drivetrain, delivering an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. The i-FORCE MAX system integrates a 48-horsepower electric motor between a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, enhancing both power and efficiency. This hybrid setup not only boosts towing capacity but also improves overall driving performance.
Interestingly, the base Toyota Sequoia SR5 grade offers the highest max towing capacity. The Limited and Platinum grades have a slightly reduced maximum hauling capacity of 9,300 pounds, while opting for the 4×4 luxury Capstone trim further reduces it to 8,980 pounds. Despite these variations, all models offer substantial towing capability.
With seven seats and a luxurious interior, the Toyota Sequoia more than compensates for the discontinuation of the Land Cruiser in the US market. It stands as Toyota’s new king of towing SUVs, combining luxury, space, and unparalleled towing performance, making it a top contender for the best towing suv.
Top Luxury SUVs for Towing in 2025
2025 Audi Q7/SQ7: German Luxury with a Towing Punch of 7,700 Pounds
The 2025 Audi Q7 might not be the first SUV that comes to mind when considering towing, but it’s a surprisingly capable luxury option, particularly for those who appreciate German engineering. Built for Autobahn-ready performance, this all-wheel-drive luxury family SUV can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped.
To achieve this towing capacity, it’s essential to choose the 3.0L V6 engine, which delivers 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, rather than the Q7 45 four-cylinder model. Additionally, opting for the towing package is necessary to include the tow hitch receiver and connector pin. This ensures the Q7 is fully set up for towing tasks.
For drivers seeking even more performance, the Audi SQ7 features a potent 4.0L eight-cylinder engine that produces 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. Despite the significant power boost, the towing capacity remains consistent with the Q7 at 7,700 pounds. Both models offer ample space for seven passengers and generous cargo room, combining luxury with practicality.
Inside, the Q7 and SQ7 offer Audi’s signature European luxury, characterized by sporty accents and user-friendly modern technology. They strike a balance between advanced features and intuitive design, making them not only capable towing vehicles but also comfortable and luxurious daily drivers. The Audi Q7 and SQ7 are excellent choices for those seeking a luxury midsize best towing suv.
2025 Audi Q8/SQ8/RS Q8: Stylish Luxury Towing up to 7,700 Pounds
Audi’s 2025 Q8 series effectively merges SUV functionality with sedan-like elegance, offering a luxury vehicle that is as capable as it is stylish. The base Q8 is powered by a turbocharged V6 engine, delivering a robust 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring confident handling in various conditions. When properly equipped with the tow package, the Q8 can tow up to 7,700 pounds.
The interior of the Audi Q8 exemplifies Audi’s commitment to luxury, featuring premium materials and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Passengers benefit from amenities such as four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and customizable ambient interior lighting, enhancing the overall comfort and sophistication of the cabin.
For those seeking higher performance, the Audi SQ8 and RS Q8 variants offer even more power while maintaining the same towing capacity. The SQ8 boasts 500 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension, while the RS Q8 escalates performance with a twin-turbo V8 producing 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Despite their performance enhancements, both the SQ8 and RS Q8 share the 7,700-pound max towing capacity of the standard Q8. The Audi Q8, SQ8, and RS Q8 represent a blend of luxury, performance, and towing capability, solidifying their place among the best towing suv options in the luxury segment.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450: Lavish Towing up to 7,700 Pounds
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 combines luxury with substantial towing capability, rated at a hefty 7,700 pounds. This towing capacity is attributed to its twin-turbo inline-6 engine, which produces 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. To fully utilize its towing potential, adding the Class IV trailer hitch is essential, equipping the GLS 450 with the necessary wiring harness for brake lights and trailer brakes. The nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system ensure a smooth and controlled driving experience, even when towing.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 offers seating for up to seven passengers and comes standard with trailer stability assist, providing added security and confidence while towing. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining control in challenging towing conditions.
True to Mercedes-Benz’s reputation, the cabin of the GLS 450 is exquisitely designed and lavishly appointed, featuring numerous standard perks for both driver and passengers. The interior is upscale and comfortable, making every journey, whether towing or daily driving, a luxurious experience. The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 is a top luxury best towing suv, offering a blend of performance, safety, and opulence.
2025 Range Rover Sport: Dynamic Luxury Towing up to 7,700 Pounds
The 2025 Range Rover Sport delivers impressive towing capabilities in a more compact luxury package compared to its larger sibling, the Range Rover. Most versions of the Range Rover Sport are capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds, although the Autobiography trim has a slightly lower max towing capacity of 6,614 pounds.
Standard towing features include trailer wiring prep and trailer stability assist, enhancing safety and convenience for towing activities. To maximize its towing potential, the Towing Pack is necessary, which includes Advanced Tow Assist for reverse counter-steering and a factory-installed tow hitch receiver. The P400 six-cylinder and P540 V8 engine options are rated for the highest towing capacities within the Range Rover Sport lineup. The PHEV P460e model has a reduced max towing capacity of 6,614 pounds.
The Range Rover Sport combines Land Rover’s renowned off-road prowess with on-road luxury and dynamic performance. It’s designed for drivers who need a versatile vehicle that excels both in daily driving and more demanding tasks like towing, making it a strong contender for the best towing suv in the luxury category.
2025 Land Rover Defender: Rugged Luxury Towing up to 7,700 Pounds
Land Rover’s SUVs are generally known for their impressive towing capabilities, and the 2025 Land Rover Defender is no exception. The shorter wheelbase Defender 90 and the slightly longer Defender 110 models both offer a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. The extended Defender 130 is slightly less capable but still manages a respectable 6,614-pound towing capacity.
Similar to the Range Rover Sport, the Defender offers numerous factory-installed towing aids, enhancing its functionality for towing tasks. It also features unique European-style towing amenities, such as an electrically deployable hitch ball that discreetly retracts under the bumper when not in use. This feature adds to the Defender’s blend of ruggedness and sophisticated design.
The Land Rover Defender is ideal for those who need a luxury SUV with serious off-road capabilities and robust towing performance. It blends luxury with ruggedness, making it a unique choice for the best towing suv that can handle both demanding terrains and towing needs.
2025 Land Rover Range Rover P530: Supreme Luxury Towing up to 8,200 Pounds
The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover P530 is not only a pinnacle of luxury but also a formidable contender as one of the best towing suv options available. The P530 model is equipped with a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 engine that enables it to tow up to 8,200 pounds. This powerful engine delivers 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, working in conjunction with Land Rover’s renowned all-wheel-drive system to conquer virtually any terrain.
Thanks to Range Rover’s premium trim packages and extensive customization options, the cabin offers a tranquil and majestic environment, isolating occupants from the stresses of daily driving. The interior is designed for ultimate comfort and luxury, making it ideal for long journeys and demanding towing tasks.
For those seeking to tow in utmost style and with serious off-road credibility, the Land Rover Range Rover of the latest generation is an unparalleled choice. It combines top-tier luxury with exceptional towing and off-road capabilities, making it a standout best towing suv for discerning buyers.
2025 Land Rover Discovery: Versatile Luxury Towing up to 8,200 Pounds
The 2025 Land Rover Discovery continues Land Rover’s tradition of blending luxury with robust capability, and it is particularly impressive in its towing capacity. The SE and Metropolitan trim grades can tow up to 8,200 pounds, thanks to their 355-horsepower six-cylinder engines. This towing capacity is on par with some of the larger, body-on-frame SUVs in the market, highlighting the Discovery’s exceptional engineering. Even the base Discovery S model, with its 296-horsepower engine, can tow up to 5,952 pounds, which is still highly capable for a luxury SUV.
Like other Land Rovers, the Discovery offers a distinctly British approach to luxury, combining premium features with practical functionality. It is equipped with optional Advanced Tow Assist, which simplifies trailer maneuvering, especially when reversing. This technology enhances the towing experience, making it more accessible and less stressful, even for those new to towing.
The Land Rover Discovery is a posh and capable option for those seeking a luxury best towing suv, blending advanced towing technology with signature Land Rover luxury and off-road capability.
2025 Cadillac Escalade: American Opulence with Towing up to 8,200 Pounds
For drivers who desire both luxury and robust performance, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade epitomizes American automotive opulence while offering significant towing capability. Beyond its striking, massive grille lies a powerful 6.2L V8 engine paired with a 10-speed transmission, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This is the same robust powertrain found in the GMC Yukon Denali, ensuring ample power for towing and daily driving.
When configured with rear-wheel drive and the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package, the Cadillac Escalade can tow up to 8,200 pounds in style. This combination of luxury and capability makes it a standout choice in the luxury SUV segment.
The Escalade’s interior is as impressive as its performance, offering an elegant design and a refined ride that truly embodies the Cadillac brand. Its styling is distinct and dramatic, while the interior features advanced technology, including three interactive OLED displays totaling 38 inches across the driver’s dashboard.
Passenger comfort is also a priority in the Escalade, with buttery-soft leather seats offering massage, heating, and cooling functions, an available AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker audio system, and Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride Adaptive suspension to ensure a smooth ride.
Cadillac has also introduced the high-performance Escalade-V, featuring a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine producing 682 horsepower and 653 pound-feet of torque. While the Escalade-V is performance-focused, it still maintains a respectable towing capacity of 7,000 pounds and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade-V represent the pinnacle of American luxury SUVs with impressive towing capabilities, making them top considerations for the best towing suv.
2025 Infiniti QX80: Redefined Luxury Towing up to 8,500 Pounds
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 marks a significant redesign, enhancing its cabin and style without compromising its inherent capability. The new QX80 features upgraded cabin materials, an available 24-speaker audio system, and semi-aniline leather seats with biometric cooling, setting new standards for luxury and comfort in the Infiniti lineup.
Under the hood, the Infiniti QX80 is powered by a brand-new twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque—a notable upgrade from the previous V8. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an available Dynamic Digital Suspension that anticipates road conditions, adjusting shocks for enhanced comfort over bumps and improved stability during maneuvers. The 2025 QX80 can tow up to 8,500 pounds, maintaining its status as a highly capable luxury SUV.
The Infiniti QX80 combines advanced technology, luxurious amenities, and robust towing capability, making it a compelling option for those seeking a best towing suv that doesn’t sacrifice luxury for performance.
2025 Lincoln Navigator: Premium Luxury Towing up to 8,700 Pounds
Lincoln has excelled with its body-on-frame SUV, the 2025 Lincoln Navigator, which offers a blend of premium luxury and impressive towing capabilities. The Navigator is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Navigator’s cabin is richly appointed, featuring a first-class interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plush seating. Options like a rear-seat entertainment system enhance passenger experience, especially on long journeys.
With the addition of the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package, the 2WD standard Lincoln Navigator‘s towing capacity increases from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds. The AWD model with the same package can tow up to 8,300 pounds. The Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package includes features that enhance towing safety and convenience, such as trailer sway control, a heavy-duty radiator, a trailer brake controller, and backup camera assist.
The Lincoln Navigator stands out as a top-tier luxury best towing suv, offering a combination of high towing capacity, luxurious features, and advanced towing technology, making it ideal for both work and leisure.
2025 Lexus GX 550: Off-Road Luxury Towing up to 9,096 Pounds
Lexus has significantly elevated the 2025 Lexus GX 550, offering a luxury SUV that is both highly capable off-road and a strong towing performer. The GX 550 retains a robust frame and features a more powerful and torquey 3.4L V6 engine, replacing the previous V8. This new engine delivers 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, enhancing both performance and efficiency. It also boasts impressive off-road features, including a Torsen limited-slip center differential and new Overtrail grades with locking rear differentials.
The new GX 550 is also a formidable towing vehicle, capable of handling trailers up to 9,096 pounds. This capacity positions it near the top of the luxury SUV towing segment. Concurrently, the GX 550’s cabin has been upgraded to offer new levels of luxury, bringing this robust and comfortable SUV thoroughly up to date with modern expectations.
The Lexus GX 550 is an excellent choice for those seeking a luxury best towing suv that combines high towing capacity with exceptional off-road capabilities and refined on-road comfort.
2025 Jeep Wagoneer & Grand Wagoneer: Premier Luxury Towing up to 10,000 Pounds
The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer elevate Jeep into the premier luxury SUV domain, combining high-end features with unparalleled towing capacity. Despite their luxury positioning and premium price tags, these SUVs are fundamentally capable and robust, especially when it comes to towing. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer offer a smooth inline-six engine with substantial torque and a refined ride, making them compelling options for discerning buyers.
The Wagoneer comes standard with a 3.0L twin-turbo I6 engine coupled with a mild hybrid system. This Hurricane six engine replaces Jeep’s older V8s and produces 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque in the standard model.
By opting for the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package, the Jeep Wagoneer achieves an unparalleled towing capacity of 10,000 pounds, setting a new benchmark in its class.
The Grand Wagoneer is a more luxurious version, equipped with a higher-output version of the 3.0L I6 engine, delivering 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. This engine surpasses the 6.4L V8 it replaces in both power and efficiency. Utilizing a modified Ram chassis and a factory tow package, the Grand Wagoneer offers a super-size hauling capacity of 9,810 pounds.
Both the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer represent the pinnacle of luxury best towing suv options, offering exceptional towing capacities, luxurious interiors, and advanced technology, making them ideal for those who demand the best in both luxury and performance.
How to Choose the Best SUV for Towing
(Photo/Lincoln)
You might have noticed that our list primarily features full-size and luxury SUVs, with fewer midsize models. This reflects the general principle that crossovers and most small to midsize SUVs, which are typically built on car-based unibody platforms, do not offer the same towing ratings as larger, truck-based SUVs. Ultimately, the best towing suv for you will depend significantly on your specific towing requirements, including the weight and frequency of your towing needs.
Finding the right SUV for towing is achievable across different classes if you know what to look for. Here are key guidelines to help you select the SUV that best meets your towing needs:
1. Tow Capacity: The Primary Consideration
Towing capacity is the maximum weight an SUV can safely tow, as specified by the manufacturer. This should be your foremost consideration. Manufacturers determine max towing capacities based on the vehicle’s structural and mechanical limits to ensure safe towing. Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications for the precise tow rating. Understanding and respecting this limit is crucial for safety and vehicle longevity.
2. Curb Weight: Stability and Control
Curb weight refers to the vehicle’s weight with a full fuel tank but without passengers or cargo. While fuel efficiency trends favor lighter SUVs, which can still offer decent towing capacities, many drivers prefer heavier tow vehicles for enhanced stability and control, especially when towing larger trailers. A heavier curb weight can contribute to a more planted and stable towing experience, particularly in challenging conditions.
3. Wheelbase: Enhancing Towing Stability
Wheelbase, the distance between the front and rear axles, is critical for towing stability and control. A longer wheelbase generally enhances stability, reducing the likelihood of trailer sway and preventing the towed load from excessively influencing the vehicle’s dynamics, such as lifting the front axle. Vehicles with longer wheelbases tend to offer a more composed and stable towing platform.
4. Drive System: RWD vs. AWD/4WD for Towing
The choice between four-wheel drive (4WD), all-wheel drive (AWD), or rear-wheel drive (RWD) is another important factor. Generally, rear-wheel drive is often preferred for achieving the highest towing capacity. RWD systems direct engine power to the rear axle, which bears more of the load when towing, optimizing traction and control. While 4WD and AWD systems offer enhanced traction in slippery conditions, they may sometimes have slightly lower maximum towing capacities compared to RWD configurations. Front-wheel drive is generally less optimal for towing.
5. Transmission: Automatic vs. Manual for Towing
Opinions vary on the ideal transmission for towing, but modern SUVs predominantly feature automatic transmissions. In newer SUV models, manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare. Exceptions include models like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, which still offer manual options on select trims, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer manual control. However, for most towing applications, modern automatic transmissions are highly capable, often equipped with features that enhance towing performance, such as tow/haul modes. Ultimately, the best transmission is the one you are most comfortable and confident using, as confidence enhances towing safety and ease.
6. Chassis Design: Body-on-Frame vs. Unibody
SUVs and trucks often utilize body-on-frame construction, which is designed for heavy-duty tasks like towing and hauling heavy loads. This robust construction provides superior strength and durability. In contrast, crossovers typically use a unibody design, similar to most cars, which is lighter and optimized for on-road comfort and efficiency but less ideal for heavy towing. The extra strength provided by a body-on-frame chassis in most SUVs and trucks is specifically engineered to handle the stresses of heavy towing.
7. Tow Package: Essential for Maximum Towing Performance
To tow effectively and safely, more than just a ball hitch is needed. If an SUV manufacturer offers an optional tow package, it is typically a worthwhile investment. Tow packages usually include upgrades like enhanced suspension for heavier loads, improved engine and transmission cooling systems, upgraded brakes, and optimized axle gear ratios for towing. These enhancements are crucial for achieving the listed maximum towing capacities and ensuring safe and efficient towing. In many cases, without a tow package, an SUV will not reach its maximum advertised towing rating.
What About The …?
You may have noticed the absence of a few notable SUVs from our list, specifically the Nissan Armada and the Ford Expedition. There are reasons for these omissions, at least for the current listing. We plan to update our list as soon as new information becomes available.
The Nissan Armada, which shares many components with the Infiniti QX80, is anticipated to be completely redesigned for 2025. As Nissan has not yet revealed the new model, it cannot be included in our current rankings. The 2024 Armada model, currently available at dealerships, offers a towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds and delivers 400 horsepower from its 5.6L V8 engine. We expect the 2025 model to maintain similar towing capabilities, potentially with a new engine. For more details, refer to the Infiniti QX80 entry above.
Ford’s Expedition is another highly capable towing SUV, but it is also expected to undergo a redesign for 2025. The 2024 Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,200 pounds with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, and the extended-wheelbase Expedition Max can tow up to 9,000 pounds. Both models are powered by a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine that produces up to 400 horsepower. We anticipate including the updated Expedition in future updates once details of the 2025 model are officially released.
Get One of the Best SUVs for Towing & Get Out on Your Next Adventure
Choosing the best towing suv involves considering numerous factors to match your specific needs and ensure safety on the road. Thorough research is essential to determine the ideal vehicle for your towing requirements. Whether you choose a midsize, full-size, or luxury SUV, prioritizing safety and capability is paramount. Once you have made an informed decision, imagine the countless destinations and adventures that await, made possible by your new, powerful towing SUV.
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