SUVs have rightfully earned their place as a top vehicle choice for many, and it’s easy to see why. They masterfully blend spacious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious comfort. Beyond the pavement, many SUVs boast impressive off-road capabilities and the versatility to haul both people and cargo, all while providing a smoother ride than traditional trucks. Thanks to their robust engines and often truck-derived frames, SUVs stand out as exceptional towing machines.
Whether you’re planning to transport a trailer loaded with recreational vehicles like motorcycles or UTVs, tow a boat to the lake, or bring your RV trailer for a memorable weekend getaway, the right SUV makes towing your gear a breeze.
To simplify your search, we’ve carefully examined the vast SUV market to bring you a curated list of the best SUVs for towing in 2025. We’ve categorized these top performers by vehicle class – midsize, full-size, and luxury SUV – to help you pinpoint the perfect match for your specific towing needs.
Let’s dive into the world of SUV tow vehicles and discover the ideal model to power your next adventure.
Best 2025 Midsize SUVs for Towing
2025 Nissan Pathfinder: Towing Capacity – 6,000 Pounds
Nissan’s revamped Pathfinder marks a return to its adventurous spirit. The 2025 model year emphasizes a more rugged aesthetic, incorporating design cues reminiscent of the original Pathfinder, appealing to those seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern capability.
For outdoor enthusiasts and those needing to haul trailers, the latest Pathfinder generation replaced its continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a responsive nine-speed automatic, paired with a potent 285-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine. An available oil cooler, standard on Rock Creek and Platinum trims and optional on S, SL, and SV models, further enhances the Pathfinder’s towing prowess.
This combination allows the Nissan Pathfinder to confidently tow up to 6,000 pounds, outperforming many midsize crossovers by a significant 1,000 pounds. This makes it a Good Suv For Towing smaller trailers and equipment.
Beyond towing, the Nissan Pathfinder doesn’t compromise on practicality. It provides a generous 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 45 cubic feet when the third row is folded, ensuring ample room for passengers and gear.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Towing Capacity – 7,200 Pounds
For an SUV that excels in versatility and capability across a spectrum of activities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a prime contender. Both the extended Grand Cherokee L and the standard-wheelbase Grand Cherokee models are celebrated for their towing aptitude. However, the Grand Cherokee L distinguishes itself by offering an optional 5.7L V8 engine, which elevates its towing capacity beyond its sibling.
Choosing the standard V6 engine for the Grand Cherokee L, or any other Grand Cherokee variant, results in a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. Upgrading to the available 5.7L V8 engine boosts the Grand Cherokee L’s maximum towing capacity to an impressive 7,200 pounds, solidifying its position as a good suv for towing in the midsize category.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing towing capability, the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid presents a compelling alternative. It delivers a robust 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque while maintaining a respectable towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
Best 2025 Full-Size SUVs for Towing
2025 Chevrolet Suburban: Towing Capacity – 8,000 Pounds
While the Chevrolet Suburban offers slightly less towing capacity than its Tahoe sibling, it remains a top choice as a good suv for towing, especially when considering its expansive interior. If passenger and cargo space are paramount, the Suburban is hard to beat.
With the available front bench seat, the Suburban can accommodate up to nine passengers. For cargo-focused needs, folding down the rear seats unveils a cavernous 144.7 cubic feet of cargo volume.
To achieve the maximum towing capacity of 8,000 pounds, opt for the 2WD Suburban configuration equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and include the Max Trailering Package. While choosing 4WD or the 3.0L Turbo Diesel engine will slightly reduce the maximum towing capacity, the Max Trailering Package, which incorporates an integrated trailer brake controller and adjusts the axle ratio, remains essential for optimizing towing performance.
The 2025 Chevrolet Suburban receives notable interior enhancements, including larger display screens and upgraded materials, elevating its cabin ambiance. Furthermore, the 3.0L diesel engine has been upgraded to a new iteration, now delivering 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, promising enhanced performance and reduced noise levels, though the overall towing capacity remains consistent.
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe: Towing Capacity – 8,400 Pounds
The Chevy Tahoe presents a compelling blend of style and towing prowess, making it a good suv for towing and hauling gear. It offers a selection of three engines and the choice of two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The standard engine is a robust 5.3L V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque.
For increased power, the available 6.2L V8 engine delivers 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded 3.0L Duramax diesel option for 2025 offers 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 8,200 pounds.
To unlock the maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds, the 2WD Tahoe model with the 5.3L gas engine and the Max Trailering Package is required. Even without the Max Trailering Package, the standard towing capacity of the 2025 Tahoe ranges from 7,700 to 7,900 pounds.
Chevrolet’s Max Trailering Package enhances towing confidence with features like a trailer brake controller, the Advanced Trailering System in-truck app, hitch guidance with hitch view, and an enhanced cooling system. The Advanced Trailering System app allows drivers to manage trailer profiles, access pre-departure checklists, and monitor trailer tire pressure and temperature.
Additional available high-tech towing aids include Trailer Sway Control, Trailer Theft Alert, and Hill Start Assist, further simplifying the towing experience.
2025 GMC Yukon: Towing Capacity – 8,400 Pounds
From Chevrolet’s sister brand GMC, the Yukon emerges as a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment, offering a blend of trailering capability and premium comfort. The GMC Yukon is a good suv for towing that doesn’t compromise on luxury. Features like exclusive interior designs and up to 13 camera views, including High Definition Surround Vision, elevate the driving experience. Many drivers praise the Yukon’s exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, often forgetting they are behind the wheel of a capable towing SUV.
To achieve the maximum tow rating of 8,400 pounds, select a rear-wheel-drive Yukon model with the standard 5.3L V8 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and equip it with the Max Trailering Package.
For slightly reduced towing demands, the Yukon AT4 and Denali trims, when equipped with the Max Trailering Package, can handle up to 8,200 pounds. The AT4 features all-wheel drive and a 5.3L V8, while the Denali offers rear-wheel drive and a more potent 420-horsepower 6.2L V8. Similar to the Chevrolet models, a 3.0L diesel engine option is also available.
2025 Toyota Sequoia: Towing Capacity – 9,520 Pounds
Prior to 2022, the Toyota Land Cruiser held the title of Toyota’s best towing SUV. However, the redesigned Sequoia has since claimed the throne. The all-new Sequoia is built upon a modern body-on-frame chassis, sharing a fully boxed frame with the latest Toyota Tundra pickup truck. This robust foundation empowers the Sequoia with a maximum trailer towing capacity of 9,520 pounds, making it a top contender as a good suv for towing in its class.
Powering this impressive capability is an i-FORCE MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain, generating 437 horsepower and a substantial 583 pound-feet of torque. This hybrid system integrates a 48-horsepower electric motor between a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine and a conventional 10-speed automatic transmission, enhancing both power and efficiency.
Interestingly, the base Toyota Sequoia SR5 trim offers the highest maximum towing capacity. The Limited and Platinum trims offer a still-impressive 9,300-pound towing capacity, while the top-of-the-line Capstone trim with 4×4 capability tows up to 8,980 pounds.
With seven seats and a luxurious interior, the Toyota Sequoia effectively compensates for the discontinuation of the Land Cruiser in the US market, providing a capable and refined towing SUV.
Best 2025 Luxury SUVs for Towing
2025 Audi Q7/SQ7: Towing Capacity – 7,700 Pounds
The Audi Q7 might not be the first SUV that comes to mind when considering towing, but its German engineering heritage includes a strong appreciation for towing capability. This Autobahn-ready, all-wheel-drive luxury SUV is designed to be a good suv for towing up to 7,700 pounds while providing a refined driving experience.
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 variant. Furthermore, specifying the towing package when configuring your Q7 is crucial, as it includes the necessary tow hitch receiver and connector pin.
For those seeking even more performance, the SQ7 boasts a 4.0L eight-cylinder engine producing 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. Despite the increased power, the towing capacity remains at 7,700 pounds.
Inside, both the Q7 and SQ7 offer seating for seven passengers and ample cargo space. They also showcase Audi’s signature blend of European luxury, sporty accents, and user-friendly technology, making them desirable luxury midsize SUVs for towing.
2025 Audi Q8/SQ8/RS Q8: Towing Capacity – 7,700 Pounds
Audi’s Q8 series effectively merges SUV versatility with sedan-like driving dynamics. The standard Q8 features a turbocharged V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system. When properly equipped with the towing package, the Q8 can tow up to 7,700 pounds, making it a good suv for towing in the luxury segment.
The Q8’s cabin is characterized by premium materials and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Passengers can enjoy features like four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and customizable ambient interior lighting.
Stepping up to the Audi SQ8 brings a 500-horsepower engine and a sport-tuned suspension, enhancing performance while maintaining the luxury and daily usability of the standard Q8. The high-performance RS Q8 takes it further with a twin-turbo V8 producing 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Despite the performance variations, all three models, when properly equipped, share the same 7,700-pound maximum towing capacity.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450: Towing Capacity – 7,700 Pounds
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 demonstrates impressive towing capability, with a capacity of 7,700 pounds. This is attributed to its twin-turbo inline-6 engine, which delivers 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. To optimize towing, the Class IV trailer hitch should be added, equipping the GLS 450 with the necessary wiring harness for trailer lights and brakes. A nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system ensure a smooth and controlled towing experience.
The GLS 450 accommodates up to seven passengers and includes trailer stability assist as a standard feature, enhancing safety while towing.
True to Mercedes-Benz tradition, the GLS 450 cabin is lavishly appointed with premium materials and a wealth of standard luxury features, providing a refined environment for both driver and passengers. It is a luxurious and good suv for towing.
2025 Range Rover Sport: Towing Capacity – 7,700 Pounds
The latest Range Rover Sport is a capable tow vehicle in a more compact luxury package compared to its larger sibling. Most Range Rover Sport configurations can tow up to 7,700 pounds, although the Autobiography trim has a slightly lower maximum of 6,614 pounds.
Standard towing features include trailer wiring preparation and trailer stability assist. The Towing Pack is essential for maximizing towing capability, adding Advanced Tow Assist reverse counter-steering and a factory-installed tow hitch receiver. The P400 six-cylinder and P540 V8 engine options provide the highest towing capacities, while the PHEV P460e model has a reduced maximum of 6,614 pounds.
2025 Land Rover Defender: Towing Capacity – 7,700 Pounds
Land Rover’s SUV lineup is known for its impressive towing capabilities, and the Defender is no exception. Both the shorter Defender 90 and the longer Defender 110 models can tow up to 7,700 pounds. The extended-length Defender 130 offers a slightly lower capacity but can still handle trailers up to 6,614 pounds. The Land Rover Defender is a rugged and good suv for towing.
Similar to the Range Rover Sport, the Defender offers numerous factory-installed towing aids. Unique European-style towing features, such as an electrically deployable hitch ball that retracts when not in use, add to its appeal.
2025 Land Rover Range Rover P530: Towing Capacity – 8,200 Pounds
The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover excels not only as a luxury vehicle but also as a highly capable towing SUV. The P530 model, equipped with a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 engine, can tow up to 8,200 pounds. With 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, combined with Land Rover’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, the Range Rover confidently handles diverse terrains.
The Range Rover’s opulent cabin provides a serene escape from daily stresses, enhanced by premium trim options and extensive customization possibilities. For those seeking to tow in ultimate style with off-road prowess, the latest generation Range Rover is an excellent choice, representing a truly good suv for towing in luxury.
2025 Land Rover Discovery: Towing Capacity – 8,200 Pounds
The Land Rover Discovery continues the brand’s tradition of towing excellence. The SE and Metropolitan trim levels, powered by 355-horsepower six-cylinder engines, boast an impressive towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, rivaling some larger body-on-frame SUVs. The base Discovery S, with its 296-horsepower engine, still offers a respectable 5,952-pound towing capacity. The Land Rover Discovery offers a blend of luxury and capability making it a good suv for towing.
The Discovery offers a distinctly British approach to luxury towing, complemented by optional features like Advanced Tow Assist, which simplifies trailer maneuvering during reversing.
2025 Cadillac Escalade: Towing Capacity – 8,200 Pounds
For drivers seeking a blend of American luxury and robust capability, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade is a prime example of automotive opulence. Beneath its striking exterior lies a 6.2L V8 engine paired with a 10-speed transmission, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque – the same powertrain found in the GMC Yukon Denali.
Opting for the rear-wheel-drive Escalade with the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package enables a towing capacity of up to 8,200 pounds, accomplished in signature Cadillac style. The Cadillac Escalade is undeniably a good suv for towing with luxury.
The Escalade’s elegant interior and refined ride quality are hallmarks of the Cadillac experience. The cabin features innovative technology, including three interactive OLED displays totaling 38 inches across the dashboard. Passengers are treated to luxurious amenities like leather seats with massage, heating, and cooling functions, an available AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker audio system, and Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride Adaptive suspension for exceptional ride comfort.
Cadillac has expanded the Escalade lineup with the high-performance Escalade-V, featuring a 682-horsepower supercharged 6.2L V8 engine producing 653 pound-feet of torque. While the Escalade-V offers a slightly lower towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, it compensates with exhilarating acceleration, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
2025 Infiniti QX80: Towing Capacity – 8,500 Pounds
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 represents a significant upgrade while retaining its robust capabilities. The all-new QX80 boasts an enhanced cabin with premium materials, up to 24 speakers, and semi-aniline leather seats with biometric cooling. It remains a good suv for towing, now with added luxury.
Under the hood, a new twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine delivers 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, marking a substantial improvement over the previous V8. A nine-speed automatic transmission and an available Dynamic Digital Suspension, which anticipates road conditions to optimize ride comfort and stability, further enhance the driving experience. The 2025 QX80 offers a towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds.
2025 Lincoln Navigator: Towing Capacity – 8,700 Pounds
Lincoln has truly excelled with its body-on-frame SUV, the 2025 Navigator. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Lincoln Navigator is a luxurious and good suv for towing.
The Navigator’s cabin is characterized by a first-class interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plush seating. An optional rear-seat entertainment system is available for enhanced passenger enjoyment on long journeys.
Equipping the standard 2WD Navigator with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package increases its towing capacity from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds. The AWD configuration with the towing package offers a slightly reduced towing capacity of 8,300 pounds.
The Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package includes valuable safety and convenience features like trailer sway control, a heavy-duty radiator, a trailer brake controller, and backup camera assist.
2025 Lexus GX 550: Towing Capacity – 9,096 Pounds
Lexus has significantly elevated the GX with the 550 model. It retains a robust frame and boasts increased horsepower and torque from its new 3.4L V6 engine compared to the outgoing V8, now delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GX 550 also excels in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen limited-slip center differential and new Overtrail trims with locking rear differentials.
The new GX 550 demonstrates impressive towing prowess, handling trailers up to 9,096 pounds, positioning it near the top of its class as a good suv for towing. The updated cabin introduces new levels of luxury, bringing the GX 550 into the modern era with enhanced comfort and refinement.
2025 Jeep Wagoneer & Grand Wagoneer: Towing Capacity – 10,000 Pounds
The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer represent Jeep’s foray into the premium SUV segment. Despite their luxurious positioning and premium price point, these SUVs offer serious capability. A refined inline-six engine with substantial torque and a smooth ride characterize these models. The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are top contenders as a good suv for towing heavy loads.
The Wagoneer comes standard with a 3.0L twin-turbo I6 engine with a mild hybrid system, replacing Jeep’s previous V8 engines. This standard engine produces 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque.
Selecting the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package unlocks the Wagoneer’s class-leading towing capacity of 10,000 pounds.
The Grand Wagoneer shares the Wagoneer’s Jeep DNA but with enhanced luxury. It features a higher-output version of the 3.0L I6 engine, delivering 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the 6.4L V8 it replaces. Built on a modified Ram chassis and equipped with a factory tow package, the Grand Wagoneer offers a substantial towing capacity of 9,810 pounds.
How to Choose a Good SUV for Towing
You might have noticed that our list primarily features full-size and luxury SUVs, with fewer midsize options and no crossovers. Generally, crossovers and most small to midsize SUVs, lacking truck-based chassis, don’t achieve the same tow ratings as full-size SUVs. Ultimately, the best SUV for your needs depends on your specific towing requirements, including the weight and frequency of your towing activities.
Finding a good SUV for towing is achievable across various classes; you simply need to understand the key factors. Here’s a guide to help you select the SUV that best meets your towing needs.
1. Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is the maximum weight an SUV can safely tow, as specified by the manufacturer. This should be your primary consideration. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for your vehicle’s specific tow rating to ensure safe towing practices.
2. Curb Weight
Curb weight refers to the vehicle’s weight with a full fuel tank but without cargo or passengers. While lighter SUVs can now offer impressive towing capabilities due to advancements in engineering, some drivers prefer heavier tow vehicles for enhanced stability and control when towing.
3. Wheelbase
Wheelbase, the distance between the front and rear axles, is critical for towing stability and control. A longer wheelbase reduces the risk of trailer sway and improves overall towing composure, preventing the towed load from negatively impacting the vehicle’s front axle stability.
4. Drive System
Consider your preferred drive system: four-wheel drive (4WD), all-wheel drive (AWD), or rear-wheel drive (RWD). As noted in our SUV recommendations, rear-wheel drive often yields the highest tow ratings. This configuration directs power to the axle bearing the most weight, optimizing towing performance. While 4WD and AWD are suitable for towing, they typically offer slightly lower maximum tow capacities compared to RWD configurations. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) is generally less ideal for towing.
5. Transmission
While opinions on the ideal transmission for towing vary, modern SUVs primarily feature automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare in new SUVs, with the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco being notable exceptions, offering manual options on select trims. Ultimately, the best transmission is the one you are most comfortable and confident operating, as driver confidence is crucial for safe and effective towing.
6. Chassis Design
SUVs and trucks often utilize body-on-frame construction, which provides the robust strength necessary for heavy towing. Crossovers typically employ a unibody design, similar to cars, which is less optimal for demanding towing tasks. The body-on-frame chassis in many SUVs and trucks is specifically engineered for heavy-duty towing applications.
7. Tow Package
Effective towing requires more than just a basic ball hitch. If a manufacturer offers a tow package for your chosen SUV, it is generally a worthwhile investment. These packages often include upgraded suspension components for handling heavier loads, enhanced engine and transmission cooling systems, improved brakes, and optimized axle gear ratios for towing. In many cases, achieving the maximum advertised towing capacity requires equipping the vehicle with the manufacturer’s tow package.
What About Others?
You might have noticed the absence of certain SUVs from our list, such as the Nissan Armada and the Ford Expedition. There are specific reasons for these omissions, at least for the time being. We plan to update our list as new models become available.
The Nissan Armada, closely related to the Infiniti QX80, is anticipated to be completely redesigned for 2025. As Nissan has not yet unveiled 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 is powered by a 400-horsepower 5.6L V8 engine. We expect the 2025 model to maintain similar towing capabilities with a new engine. Refer to the Infiniti QX80 section above for more details.
Ford’s Expedition is another capable towing SUV, but it too is expected to undergo a redesign for the 2025 model year. The 2024 Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,200 pounds with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, while the extended-wheelbase Expedition Max can tow up to 9,000 pounds. Both models utilize a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine producing up to 400 horsepower.
Find Your Good SUV for Towing and Embark on Your Next Adventure
Choosing the right SUV for towing involves careful research and consideration of your specific needs. Whether you prioritize a midsize, full-size, or luxury SUV, ensuring your chosen vehicle is properly equipped for safe towing is paramount. Once you’ve done your research and selected your ideal tow vehicle, imagine the possibilities and adventures that await you and your new SUV.
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