SUVs have rightfully earned their place as one of the most sought-after vehicle types on the market. Their appeal lies in the versatile blend of spacious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and superior comfort. Beyond these attributes, many SUVs boast impressive off-road capabilities and the capacity to handle substantial cargo, all while providing a smoother ride compared to traditional trucks. Thanks to their robust engines and often truck-derived platforms, SUVs stand out as exceptional towing machines.
Whether you’re planning to transport a trailer loaded with recreational vehicles like motorcycles or UTVs, haul a boat to the lake, or bring your RV trailer for a weekend getaway, selecting the right SUV ensures you can tow your adventure gear effortlessly.
To simplify your search, we’ve explored the extensive array of options and curated a list of the best SUVs for towing. We’ve categorized these top performers by class – midsize, full-size, and luxury SUVs – to streamline your decision-making process and help you pinpoint the SUV tow vehicle that perfectly matches your needs for your next adventure.
Best Midsize SUVs for Towing in 2025
2025 Nissan Pathfinder: Towing Capacity of 6,000 Pounds
Nissan’s revamped Pathfinder marks a return to its more rugged origins. The 2025 model showcases a bolder design aesthetic, subtly echoing the classic models of the past. This SUV isn’t just about looks; it’s built for capability.
For those who enjoy camping, cottage trips, or towing trailers, the latest Pathfinder has transitioned from a CVT to a responsive nine-speed automatic transmission, paired with a potent 285-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine. An optional oil cooler, available on S, SL, and SV trims and standard on Rock Creek and Platinum models, further enhances its towing prowess. These upgrades have significantly boosted the Nissan Pathfinder’s towing capacity.
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder boasts a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds, a notable 1,000 pounds more than many midsize crossovers can manage. This makes it a strong contender in the midsize Suv For Towing category.
Beyond towing, the Nissan Pathfinder offers practical cargo solutions with 16.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 45 cubic feet when the seven-seat capacity is not needed.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Towing Capacity of 7,200 Pounds
For an SUV that excels in a wide range of activities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is an outstanding choice. Both the extended Grand Cherokee L and the standard Grand Cherokee are celebrated for their towing capabilities, but the L variant exclusively offers a robust 5.7L V8 engine, granting it an extra 1,000 pounds of towing capacity, making it a top midsize suv for towing.
The base V6 Grand Cherokee L, and other Grand Cherokee models, offer a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. Upgrading to the available 5.7L V8 engine elevates the Grand Cherokee L’s maximum towing capacity to an impressive 7,200 pounds.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency while towing, the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid is a compelling option. It delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque and still manages a respectable towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
Best Full-Size SUVs for Towing in 2025
2025 Chevrolet Suburban: Towing Capacity of 8,000 Pounds
While the Chevrolet Suburban offers slightly less towing power compared to the Tahoe, it remains a top-tier full-size SUV for towing. Its expansive interior is unmatched, especially for large families or those needing to transport significant gear.
With the available front bench seat, the Suburban can accommodate up to nine passengers. For cargo-focused needs, it provides a massive 144.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down.
To achieve the maximum towing capacity of 8,000 pounds, equip the 2WD Suburban with the 5.3L V8 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and include the Max Trailering Package. While opting for 4WD or the 3.0L Turbo Diesel slightly reduces the max towing capacity, the Max Trailering Package, featuring an integrated trailer brake controller and adjusted axle ratio, is crucial for optimal towing performance.
For 2025, Chevrolet has refreshed the Suburban’s interior with larger screens and enhanced materials. The 3.0L diesel engine has also been upgraded to a more powerful and quieter version with 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, further solidifying the Suburban as a leading full-size suv for towing.
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe: Towing Capacity of 8,400 Pounds
The Chevy Tahoe stands out as a stylish full-size SUV for towing, packing ample power to haul your equipment. It offers a choice of three engines and either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The standard engine is a 5.3L V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque.
For more power, upgrade to the 6.2L V8, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The enhanced 2025 3.0L Duramax diesel option offers 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque, capable of towing up to 8,200 pounds.
The maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds is achieved with the Max Trailering Package and the 2WD 5.3L gas engine, making it a top full-size suv for towing. Even without this package, the standard towing capacity ranges from 7,700 to 7,900 pounds.
Chevy’s Max Trailering Package includes essential 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, pre-departure checklists, and monitor tire pressure and temperature.
Additional available high-tech towing aids include Trailer Sway Control, Trailer Theft Alert, and Hill Start Assist, enhancing safety and ease when towing.
2025 GMC Yukon: Towing Capacity of 8,400 Pounds
GMC’s Yukon, Chevrolet’s sister model, is another excellent full-size SUV for towing, blending trailering capability with premium comfort. Features like exclusive interior designs and 13 camera views, including High Definition Surround Vision, elevate the driving experience. Many drivers commend the Yukon for its exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, often forgetting they are behind the wheel of such a capable towing SUV.
To reach the maximum tow rating of 8,400 pounds, choose a rear-wheel-drive Yukon model with the standard 5.3L V8 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and opt for the Max Trailering Package.
For slightly reduced tow capacity, the Yukon AT4 and Denali models, when equipped with the Max Trailering Package, can still tow 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 powerful 420-horsepower 6.2L V8. A 3.0L diesel engine option is also available, similar to the Chevrolet models.
2025 Toyota Sequoia: Towing Capacity of 9,520 Pounds
Prior to 2022, the Toyota Land Cruiser held the title of Toyota’s best SUV for towing. However, the all-new Sequoia has since claimed this crown. Built on a modern body-on-frame chassis, shared with the latest Tundra, the Sequoia is a powerhouse with a maximum trailer hauling capacity of 9,520 pounds, making it a leading full-size suv for towing.
This impressive capability comes from an i-FORCE MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid drivetrain, delivering 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 and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The base Toyota Sequoia SR5 grade offers the highest max towing capacity. The Limited and Platinum grades have a maximum hauling capacity of 9,300 pounds, while the 4×4 luxury Capstone trim reduces it slightly to 8,980 pounds.
With seven seats and a luxurious interior, Toyota’s new towing flagship effectively compensates for the discontinuation of the Land Cruiser in the US market.
Best Luxury SUVs for Towing in 2025
2025 Audi Q7/SQ7: Towing Capacity of 7,700 Pounds
While the Audi Q7 might not be the first luxury SUV that comes to mind for towing, it’s a highly capable contender. German engineering prioritizes towing capability even in luxury family vehicles, resulting in an Autobahn-ready, all-wheel-drive SUV that can tow up to 7,700 pounds, making it a top luxury suv for towing.
To achieve this, opt for the 3.0L V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, rather than the Q7 45 four-cylinder. Ensure you include the towing package option, which adds the necessary tow hitch receiver and connector pin.
The SQ7 variant boosts performance with a 4.0L eight-cylinder engine delivering 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, catering to those who desire European luxury with exhilarating speed. However, the towing capacity remains at 7,700 pounds.
Inside, both the Q7 and SQ7 offer seven-passenger seating and ample cargo space. They feature Audi’s signature blend of European luxury with sporty accents and user-friendly modern technology, establishing them as premier luxury midsize SUVs for towing.
2025 Audi Q8/SQ8/RS Q8: Towing Capacity of 7,700 Pounds
The Audi Q8 seamlessly merges SUV practicality with sedan-like elegance. A turbocharged V6 engine provides a robust 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. When properly equipped with the tow package, the Q8 can tow up to 7,700 pounds, placing it among the best luxury SUVs for towing.
The Q8’s cabin is richly appointed with premium materials and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Passengers enjoy features like four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and customizable ambient lighting.
The 2025 Audi SQ8 enhances performance with 500 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension while maintaining the luxury and daily usability of the standard Q8. The RS Q8 takes performance further with a twin-turbo V8 producing 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. Despite their performance differences, the SQ8 and RS Q8 share the same 7,700-pound max towing capacity.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450: Towing Capacity of 7,700 Pounds
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 boasts a substantial towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, thanks to its twin-turbo inline-6 engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Essential for towing is the Class IV trailer hitch, which integrates a wiring harness for brake lights and trailer brakes. The nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system ensure a smooth towing experience, making it a prime luxury suv for towing.
This luxury SUV accommodates up to seven passengers and includes trailer stability assist as standard, enhancing safety while towing.
Reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, the GLS 450’s cabin is lavish and well-equipped with standard premium features for both driver and passengers.
2025 Range Rover Sport: Towing Capacity of 7,700 Pounds
The latest Range Rover Sport combines significant towing capability with a more compact size than its flagship sibling. Most Range Rover Sport trims can tow 7,700 pounds, though the Autobiography trim has a slightly lower max of 6,614 pounds, still making it a strong luxury suv for towing.
Standard trailering features include trailer wiring prep and trailer stability assist. The Towing Pack is necessary to maximize towing potential, adding Advanced Tow Assist reverse counter-steering and a factory-installed tow hitch receiver. The P400 six-cylinder and P540 V8 engines offer the highest towing capacity ratings. The PHEV P460e trim has a lower max tow rating of 6,614 pounds.
2025 Land Rover Defender: Towing Capacity of 7,700 Pounds
Land Rover’s SUVs are generally known for their impressive towing abilities, and the Defender is no exception. Both the shorter Defender 90 and the longer Defender 110 models can tow up to 7,700 pounds, making them excellent luxury SUVs for towing. The extended Defender 130 is slightly less capable but still handles 6,614 pounds.
Similar to the Range Rover Sport, the Defender offers numerous factory-installed towing aids and unique European-style features like an electrically deployable hitch ball that discreetly hides when not in use.
2025 Land Rover Range Rover P530: Towing Capacity of 8,200 Pounds
The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover is not just a pinnacle of luxury but also a leading luxury SUV for towing. The P530 model, equipped with a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8, can tow up to 8,200 pounds. It delivers 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque through Land Rover’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, capable across diverse terrains.
With premium trim packages and extensive customization options, the Range Rover’s opulent cabin provides a serene escape from daily stresses. For those seeking to tow in ultimate style with exceptional off-road credentials, the latest Range Rover generation is sure to impress.
2025 Land Rover Discovery: Towing Capacity of 8,200 Pounds
The Land Rover Discovery continues the brand’s tradition of capability and luxury. The SE and Metropolitan trim grades boast an impressive towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, thanks to their 355-horsepower six-cylinder engines, rivalling some larger body-on-frame SUVs. The 296-horsepower Discovery S still offers a respectable 5,952-pound towing capacity, making it a versatile luxury suv for towing.
The Discovery combines Land Rover’s signature posh and distinctly British style with practical towing features. The optional Advanced Tow Assist further enhances the towing experience, simplifying trailer maneuvering during reversing, making luxury towing more accessible than ever.
2025 Cadillac Escalade: Towing Capacity of 8,200 Pounds
For drivers desiring both luxury and performance, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade embodies American automotive grandeur, making it a top luxury suv for towing. Beyond its striking grille, it features a 6.2L V8 engine and 10-speed transmission, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque—the same powertrain as the GMC Yukon Denali.
Opting for the rear-wheel-drive model with the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package allows the Escalade to tow up to 8,200 pounds in utmost style.
The Escalade’s elegant interior and refined ride reinforce its Cadillac heritage. Its styling is distinctly bold, complemented by advanced technology like the three interactive OLED displays totaling 38 inches across the driver’s console.
Passenger comfort is paramount, with features like buttery-soft leather seats offering massage, heating, and cooling, an available AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker audio system, and Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride Adaptive suspension for superior ride quality.
Cadillac also offers the high-performance Escalade-V, equipped with a 682-horsepower supercharged 6.2L V8 and 653 pound-feet of torque, which still achieves a significant trailering capacity of 7,000 pounds alongside its 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 4.4 seconds.
2025 Infiniti QX80: Towing Capacity of 8,500 Pounds
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 is completely redesigned, enhancing its cabin and style without compromising its robust capability, making it a competitive luxury suv for towing. The interior features upgraded materials, up to 24 speakers, and semi-aniline leather seats with biometric cooling, creating a truly luxurious environment.
Under the hood, a new twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine produces 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque—a substantial improvement over the previous V8. It’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an available Dynamic Digital Suspension that anticipates road conditions to optimize ride comfort and stability. The 2025 QX80 can tow up to 8,500 pounds, blending luxury with significant towing capacity.
2025 Lincoln Navigator: Towing Capacity of 8,700 Pounds
Lincoln has excelled with its body-on-frame SUV, the 2025 Navigator, a top luxury suv for towing. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine delivering 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Navigator’s well-appointed cabin offers a first-class interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and exceptionally comfortable seating. An optional rear-seat entertainment system enhances long journeys for family trips.
With the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package, the 2WD standard Navigator’s towing capacity increases from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds. The AWD version with the towing package offers a still-impressive 8,300-pound limit.
The Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package includes valuable safety and convenience features such as trailer sway control, a heavy-duty radiator, a trailer brake controller, and backup camera assist, making the Navigator a highly capable and luxurious towing SUV.
2025 Lexus GX 550: Towing Capacity of 9,096 Pounds
Lexus has significantly elevated the GX series with the GX 550, making it a standout luxury suv for towing. It retains a robust frame and now boasts more horsepower and torque from a 3.4L V6 engine (349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet) compared to its predecessor’s V8. It offers exceptional off-road capabilities, including a Torsen limited-slip center differential and new Overtrail grades with locking rear differentials.
The new GX is also a towing powerhouse, capable of handling trailers up to 9,096 pounds. Simultaneously, a redesigned cabin brings new levels of luxury to GX owners, modernizing this large and comfortable SUV.
2025 Jeep Wagoneer & Grand Wagoneer: Towing Capacity of 10,000 Pounds
The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer represent Jeep’s foray into the premier luxury SUV segment, and they lead the pack as the best luxury SUVs for towing. Despite their high-end pricing, these luxury SUVs offer compelling value with their smooth inline-six engines, abundant torque, and refined ride quality.
The Wagoneer comes standard with a 3.0L twin-turbo I6 engine with a mild hybrid system, replacing Jeep’s previous V8s. This standard engine delivers 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque.
Equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package, the Wagoneer achieves an unmatched towing capacity of 10,000 pounds, setting a new benchmark in its class.
The Grand Wagoneer, the more luxurious counterpart, features a higher-output version of the 3.0L I6 engine, producing 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the 6.4L V8 it replaces. With its modified Ram chassis and factory tow package, the Grand Wagoneer offers a substantial hauling capacity of 9,810 pounds.
Choosing the Right SUV for Towing: Key Considerations
Our list predominantly features full-size and luxury SUVs, with fewer midsize options, because crossovers and most smaller SUVs generally lack the truck-based chassis required for higher tow ratings. Selecting the best SUV for towing hinges on your specific towing requirements – how much you need to tow and how often.
Finding the ideal SUV for towing in any class is achievable by focusing on key factors. Here are essential guidelines to aid your decision:
1. Towing Capacity: The Prime Factor
Towing capacity is the maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow, as specified by the manufacturer. This should be your primary consideration. Always consult the manufacturer’s rating to understand your vehicle’s safe towing limits. Exceeding these limits can compromise safety and vehicle performance.
2. Curb Weight: Stability Foundation
Curb weight is the vehicle’s weight with a full fuel tank but without cargo or passengers. While lighter SUVs can offer decent towing capabilities due to modern engineering, heavier SUVs often provide a more stable and controlled towing experience. A heavier tow vehicle can better manage trailer sway and maintain control, especially in challenging conditions.
3. Wheelbase: Control and Balance
Wheelbase, the distance between the front and rear axles, significantly impacts stability and control. A longer wheelbase reduces the likelihood of the trailer affecting the vehicle’s balance, preventing the towed load from lifting the front axle. Longer wheelbases generally offer superior towing stability, particularly with heavier trailers.
4. Drive System: RWD vs. AWD/4WD
Consider whether rear-wheel drive (RWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), or four-wheel drive (4WD) suits your needs. RWD often provides the highest tow rating because it directs power to the axle bearing the most weight. While 4WD and AWD are viable for towing, they typically have slightly lower tow capacities. Front-wheel drive is generally less optimal for towing. Choose based on your typical driving conditions and desired towing performance.
5. Transmission: Automatic Dominance
While manual transmissions were once common, most modern SUVs, especially those designed for towing, are equipped with automatic transmissions. Automatic transmissions in newer SUVs are highly sophisticated, often with features that optimize performance for towing. While a manual transmission can offer driver engagement, automatics generally provide smoother and more controlled power delivery for towing.
6. Chassis Design: Body-on-Frame Advantage
SUVs and trucks often utilize body-on-frame construction, which is ideal for heavy towing due to its robustness. Crossovers typically use a unibody design, similar to cars, which is less suited for heavy towing. The body-on-frame structure provides the necessary strength and rigidity to handle the stresses of towing heavy loads.
7. Tow Package: Essential Upgrades
A tow package is more than just a ball hitch. Manufacturer-offered tow packages are highly recommended as they include essential upgrades optimized for towing. These packages often feature enhanced suspension, improved engine and transmission cooling, upgraded brakes, and appropriate axle gear ratios. Without a tow package, your SUV’s actual towing capacity may be significantly lower than the listed maximum.
Models Not Listed: Nissan Armada and Ford Expedition
You might have noticed the absence of the Nissan Armada and Ford Expedition from our list. There are specific reasons for their exclusion at this time. We anticipate updating our list as new models become available.
The Nissan Armada, sharing many components with the Infiniti QX80, is expected to be fully redesigned for 2025. Until the new model is unveiled, the current 2024 Armada, capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds with a 400-horsepower 5.6L V8, remains a strong contender. We expect the 2025 model to maintain similar towing capabilities, possibly with a new engine, aligning with the updated QX80.
Ford’s Expedition is also anticipated to undergo a redesign for 2025. The 2024 Ford Expedition is a capable towing SUV, with a 9,200-pound towing capacity when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. The long-wheelbase Expedition Max can tow up to 9,000 pounds, both powered by a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine producing up to 400 horsepower. We look forward to seeing how the redesigned models will perform.
Embark on Your Next Adventure with the Best SUV for Towing
Choosing the best SUV for towing requires careful research to align with your specific needs. Whether you select a midsize, full-size, or luxury SUV, prioritizing safety is paramount. Once you’ve made an informed decision, imagine the countless destinations you can explore, confidently towing your gear with your new SUV.
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