10 Best SUVs for Towing
| 1. 2025 Jeep Wagoneer | 10,000 pounds |
| 2. 2025 Ford Expedition | 9,600 pounds |
| 3. 2025 Toyota Sequoia | 9,520 pounds |
| 4. 2025 Lexus GX | 9,096 pounds |
| 5. 2025 Dodge Durango | 8,700 pounds |
| 6. 2025 Nissan Armada | 8,500 pounds |
| 7. 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon | 8,400 pounds |
| 8. 2025 Land Rover Defender | 8,201 pounds |
| 9. 2025 Lexus LX | 8,000 pounds |
| 10. 2025 Porsche Cayenne | 7,716 pounds |
Choosing the Right SUV for Towing
When choosing an SUV for towing, the two most important pieces of information are the weight of the loaded trailer you intend to pull and the SUV’s tow rating. If your trailer weighs more than your SUV can tow, you won’t be able to move that load safely. The SUV’s capabilities must meet or exceed the trailer’s weight. However, tow specs can be a little murky. Here’s why.
Not All Models Are Rated Equally
SUV manufacturers often hype the maximum tow rating for a particular vehicle, but not every model in the range is rated to tow the same weight. It can be confusing which engine to select and which option packages to bake into the vehicle to get the highest tow rating.
You May Need the Tow Package
Sometimes, opting for the most potent engine translates to increased towing capability. But sometimes your vehicle will need more equipment. For example, the midsize Audi Q7 SUV has a wide band of towing capability. The 4-cylinder models are rated to tow 4,400 pounds. But check the option box for the inline-6 and the tow package, and that Audi can handle 7,700 pounds — a massive difference.
Opting for the factory tow package can be helpful if you plan to hitch up to a trailer. Some manufacturers even require a factory-installed hitch to qualify for that maximum tow rating. Many of these tow packages include the trailer hitch, specialized wiring, and often additional parts and equipment designed to handle the stresses of towing, like a transmission cooler or a higher-capacity alternator. Some more sophisticated models have a trailer-sway control system and cameras to help guide you when hitching up. That’s money well spent.
All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive?
There are other features to consider beyond opting for a specific tow package. Some manufacturers require all-wheel drive (AWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD) for maximum tow rating. All four wheels pulling can make towing in poor weather conditions much less stressful. Even if you live in the sunbelt, 4-wheel drive has towing advantages. A 4-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive tow vehicle can help maintain traction on a slippery boat launch or add a measure of confidence when pulling a trailer of ATVs down a rough dirt road.
What You Should Know About Towing Weight
Knowing your vehicle’s maximum trailer towing weight rating is only part of the story. A sticker that you will find on the door jamb of an SUV tells you more.
The maximum weight the vehicle can carry, including cargo, people, and trailer tongue weight.
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the weight of the empty vehicle and the payload added together. In other words, the total weight of a loaded vehicle.
The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the GVWR plus the maximum loaded trailer weight.
Why Is the Payload Important?
Knowing the tow vehicle’s payload is critical because it includes the tongue weight of the trailer — how much weight the trailer is pushing down on the hitch. The tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight. So, an SUV towing a 5,000-pound trailer will have about 500 pounds of tongue weight on the hitch. How much payload capacity remains after that for carrying passengers and cargo?
If the towing SUV’s payload rating is 1,200 pounds, you can carry up to 700 pounds of people and gear when towing that 5,000-pound trailer without exceeding the vehicle’s maximum payload rating. Most vehicles engineered for towing will have a reasonable cushion to carry people and cargo when towing. But if you plan to carry many people and load the SUV with heavy cargo, ensure the SUV’s payload rating is up to the task.
Typical Trailer Weights
How much do average trailers weigh? Weights vary wildly depending on trailer construction and what you’ve loaded on them. Here are some weight ranges of popular trailers that SUVs tow. These are the loaded weights of the trailers.
Light Trailers
Personal watercraft/ATV/dirt bikes: 1,000-1,500 pounds
Small fishing boat: 2,000-3,000 pounds
Medium Trailers
18-foot camping trailer: 3,000-4,000 pounds
Two-horse trailer: 4,000-5,000 pounds
Heavy Trailers
Two-axle trailer with a recreational 4×4: 7,000-8,000 pounds
20-foot camping toy hauler: 8,000-9,000 pounds
See the Best Cars, Trucks, and SUVs for Camping.
Do Not Exceed the Vehicle’s Tow Rating
It might be tempting to hitch up a trailer with a weight just above your vehicle’s tow rating, but that’s a terrible idea. Manufacturers make sure their vehicles comply with the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standard (J2807) for passenger vehicle tow weight ratings. Every mechanical system on the vehicle has to work harder when towing. Exceeding the tow rating will bring excess heat and strain to those systems, which could cause failure.
Adding Tall Tires
Flashy aftermarket wheels and taller tires can entice those looking to personalize their SUV. But if you plan on towing, don’t bolt on a new set of wheels and tires without researching. If the diameter of that wheel and tire package is taller than the setup that came from the factory, the height difference will affect the vehicle’s performance. Taller tires can take more engine torque to get moving from a stop and cause the transmission to work harder to keep the engine in the powerband on the freeway. Add a heavy trailer to the mix, and the effects multiply, taxing everything from the engine to the transmission to the brakes.
Tire Load Ratings
Even if your new wheels and tires are the same height as the factory ones, they must be rated to carry the same weight. Choose a tire with the same load rating as the stock tires, and inflate them to the correct pressure to handle the extra weight. A lap through your SUV’s manual should provide some guidance. The manufacturer often posts the recommended inflation pressure on a sticker inside the door jamb. However, a vehicle loaded with people, cargo, and tongue weight could require more inflation pressure. The wrong pressure could mean excess heat buildup in the tires and open up the potential for tire failure. Kelley Blue Book expert Ben Stewart advised, “Be sure to check those tire pressures first thing in the morning before you drive when the tires are cold.”
Here’s a list of the best SUVs for towing in every size category, ranked in order of their maximum towing capacity. You can get maximum towing capacity out of the box with some models. With others, you’ll need a specific engine or towing package. We built every model through each automaker’s configurator on its website. We’ve included the price for the most affordable combination, including any necessary gear for that maximum towing number. Prices include destination charges.
Best Full-Size SUVs for Towing
2025 Jeep Wagoneer
Towing Capacity: 10,000 pounds
Starting Price: $62,040 | Expert Rating: 4.6
Value Price for Max Towing: $66,810
The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer has the highest towing capacity, at a stunning 10,000 pounds. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are the first full-size SUVs Jeep has had in its portfolio since 1991, and they are the most luxurious models ever to wear the Jeep badge. While the Wagoneer competes with the Ford Expedition and the Chevy Tahoe, the Grand Wagoneer faces off with the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade.
The Wagoneer is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-6, available in two tunings: 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque in the Wagoneer and 510 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque in the Grand Wagoneer.
Even though the Wagoneer has less horsepower and torque than the Grand Wagoneer, it has a higher maximum towing capacity. This engine has the pulling power to make towing a boat, RV, or trailer a snap. The ultraluxe Grand Wagoneer is fast for its size, but its maximum towing capacity is lower at 9,810 pounds.
To achieve the Wagoneer’s 10,000-pound towing capacity, you must spend more than the base price on this SUV. According to Jeep, the base towing capacity for the Wagoneer is 6,120 pounds. The least expensive way to get the Wagoneer with a 10,000-pound towing capacity is to get the 4-wheel-drive Wagoneer and add the Heavy-Duty Trailer-Tow Package for $1,770. With that package, you get a 2-speed transfer case, 3.92 rear axle, heavy-duty engine cooling, electronic limited-slip rear differential, trailer brake controller, and camera-based features that make it easier to guide the Wagoneer toward the trailer hitch when hooking up.
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2025 Ford Expedition
Towing Capacity: 9,600 pounds
Starting Price: $64,515 | Expert Rating: 4.8
Value Price for Max Towing: $67,515
The Ford Expedition is new for 2025, and its towing capacity has increased. You can now tow up to 9,600 pounds — 9,000 with the long-wheelbase Expedition Max. Each employs Ford’s torquey twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which makes 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. The close ratios of the 10-speed automatic make the most of the torque. You can also choose a trim with a higher-output version of this engine, with 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque; it’s standard on the Tremor and available on the Platinum as part of the Platinum Ultimate Package.
The standard towing capacity for the Expedition is 6,000 pounds. To get an Expedition with the highest towing capacity of 9,600 pounds, you’ll need the 4-wheel-drive Expedition, which comes standard with Ford’s Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package with Pro Trailer Hitch Assist. This package includes extra hardware and tech, including a 3.73 rear axle, a larger radiator, an integrated trailer brake controller, reverse brake assist, and Pro Trailer Hitch Assist.
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2025 Toyota Sequoia
Towing Capacity: 9,520 pounds
Starting Price: $64,520 | Expert Rating: 4.2
Value Price for Max Towing: $68,295
The Toyota Sequoia is luxurious, spacious, and even more capable than ever. It comes standard with a 437-hp hybrid powertrain based around a twin-turbo V6 and an electric motor with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In addition to impressive horsepower numbers, this combination delivers 538 lb-ft of torque, available at 2,400 rpm.
The Sequoia comes in six trim levels, starting with the SR5 and moving to the Limited, Platinum, off-road-biased TRD Pro, the new 1794 Edition, and the luxe Capstone. Every trim level comes out of the factory ready to tow. The Sequoia has a Class IV hitch receiver, a wiring harness with 7- and 4-pin connectors, trailer sway control, and an integrated trailer brake controller.
The Sequoia can tow up to 9,520 pounds with the nicely equipped SR5 trim level with rear-wheel drive (RWD). The SR5 seats eight and has the lowest starting price of the line. There are additional features you can get to make towing easier. You can add power tow mirrors for $290. Toyota also offers a Tow Tech Package with a Wireless Trailer Camera System ($850) with a digital rearview mirror, a trailer backup guide, and an exterior antenna. It’s $200 without the camera. Either package requires the addition of the SR5 Premium Package ($2,635).
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2025 Nissan Armada
Towing Capacity: 8,500 pounds
Starting Price: $59,530 | Expert Rating: 4.2
Value Price for Max Towing: $59,530
New for 2025, the Nissan Armada has a standard towing capacity of 8,500 pounds, so you won’t have to order a heavy-duty towing package to get the Armada’s maximum tow capacity. The Armada comes standard with a trailer brake controller, trailer sway control, the Intelligent Around-View Monitor (on all but the SV trim), a Class IV hitch, and a 7-pin wiring harness; all you’ll need is a receiver ball. An adaptive air suspension comes standard on the PRO-4X and Platinum Reserve trim levels. The Armada uses a 425-hp 3.5-liter turbo V6 with 516 lb-ft of torque.
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2025 Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon
Towing Capacity: 8,400 pounds
Starting Price: $61,195/$69,395 | Expert Rating: 4.7/4.5
Value Price for Max Towing: $61,660/$72,715
While the styling, interiors, trim levels, and features in the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are different, they’re built on the same platform and have the same towing capacity. General Motors refreshed the Tahoe and Yukon for 2025, with updated tech and improved suspension. In the case of these SUVs, the smaller available V8 engines allow the highest towing capacity. If you want an 8,400-pound max towing capacity, shop for a Tahoe or Yukon with the 5.3-liter V8 and rear-wheel drive. With 4-wheel drive, your maximum towing capacity will be 8,200 pounds. If you choose the 420-hp 6.2-liter V8 with 2-wheel drive (2WD), you can tow 8,300 pounds. With the 3.0-liter turbodiesel and 2-wheel drive, the rating drops to 8,200 pounds.
These tow ratings apply to Tahoe and Yukon models with the Max Trailering Package and Advanced Trailering Package ($465 with the Tahoe, $3,320 in the Yukon). The package includes an enhanced cooling radiator, a 2-speed transfer case with 4-wheel-drive models, a trailer brake controller, a Smart Trailer integration indicator, and additional content. The Yukon also includes Super Cruise.
The longer-wheelbase Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL models offer towing capacities in the same ballpark — they’re just lower by 100-200 pounds, depending on the powertrain. A similar story applies to the related Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, which have maximum towing capacities of 8,200 and 8,000 pounds, respectively.
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2025 Lexus LX
Towing Capacity: 8,000 pounds
Starting Price: $106,950 | Expert Rating: 4.4
Value Price for Max Towing: $106,950
The Lexus LX is a full-size luxury SUV powered by a 409-hp 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with a whopping 479 lb-ft of torque. This engine connects to a 10-speed automatic transmission. There’s also an available 457-hp hybrid variant, with 583 lb-ft of torque. The LX comes very well equipped, including standard 4-wheel drive and trailer sway control. Every LX is rated to tow 8,000 pounds. This Lexus is an expensive SUV, but it’s a powerful, refined, capable full-size vehicle loaded with luxury and backed by Lexus’s trademark reliability.
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Best Midsize SUVs for Towing
2025 Lexus GX
Towing Capacity: 9,096 pounds
Starting Price: $65,685 | Expert Rating: 4.2
Value Price for Max Towing: $73,330
The Lexus GX was all-new last year, with a new platform, boxy retro looks, and the highest towing capacity for any midsize SUV. Every trim level uses a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6, good for 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. What’s especially nice about this engine is that peak torque arrives at a very low 2,000-3,600 rpm, which is especially helpful when towing.
To get to the maximum towing capacity of 9,096 pounds, you would have to buy an Overtrail trim model, which starts at $73,330.
Editor’s tip: Buy the GX 550 base Premium trim for $65,585. If towing is your top priority, you can save thousands, and you only lose 33 pounds of towing capacity. A tow hitch comes standard, as does a limited-slip differential. If you also want the best off-road features available in the GX — and they are impressive — then it makes sense to get the Overtrail or Overtrail+.
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2025 Dodge Durango
Towing Capacity: 8,700 pounds
Starting Price: $40,490 | Expert Rating: 3.1
Value Price for Max Towing: $53,185
The Dodge Durango has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. But even the Durango’s base model, the rear-wheel-drive SXT with the 6-cylinder engine, can tow 6,200 pounds. You can use two strategies to get a Durango that can tow the maximum capacity. The first way is to get a 710-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Durango SRT Hellcat.
The second and much more affordable option is to get the Durango R/T AWD, which uses a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8, with the Trailer-Tow Group IV ($1,195). This package includes a trailer brake controller, load-leveling suspension, and a Class IV trailer hitch with a 7- and 4-pin wiring harness. If you don’t need to tow as much, you can get into a 5.7-liter V8 Durango with all-wheel drive and still pull a 7,200-pound trailer.
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2025 Land Rover Defender
Towing Capacity: 8,201 pounds
Starting Price: $58,525 | Expert Rating: 4.0
Value Price for Max Towing: $70,125 (Defender 90 X-Dynamic SE)
While the Land Rover Defender made its reputation on incredible off-road capability, it’s also highly capable at towing. The Defender has three engine choices. If you choose the 296-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, your Defender can tow up to 7,716 pounds. That applies to both the 2-door Defender 90 and the 4-door 110. The Defender 130 can tow up to 6,613 pounds. However, if you choose the 395-hp inline-6, you can tow 8,201 pounds. The most affordable trim with the inline-6 is the X-Dynamic SE.
Editor’s note: If you want a Land Rover with three rows of seats and a nicer on-road demeanor, the Land Rover Discovery can tow 7,716 pounds.
The Defender can tow at this level right off the dealer’s lot. However, the available Towing Pack ($1,850) adds all-terrain progress control (which keeps a set speed off-road), a hitch receiver, Terrain Response 2, and advanced tow assist. This last feature lets you use the multi-function knob to back the trailer in the direction you want it to go. It’s bundled with air suspension ($1,600) for a total cost of $3,450.
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2025 Porsche Cayenne
Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
Starting Price: $86,695 | Expert Rating: 4.2
Value Price for Max Towing: $86,695
Porsche is a brand known for canyon-carving exhilaration and fantastic acceleration. While the Porsche Cayenne provides those same thrills — especially in the 650-hp Turbo GT Cayenne Coupe — it’s an SUV that can tow 7,700 pounds. The Cayenne has a solid chassis and comes standard with an excellent all-wheel-drive system, so every version of this luxury performance SUV has the same towing capacity.
The Cayenne has plenty of spendy options, as there are for any Porsche. Things can get very expensive very quickly. A few available features can improve the towing experience. Consider Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), a $3,580 option. This system uses electromechanical stabilizer bars instead of mechanical ones, so the Cayenne can actively reduce body roll. Adaptive air suspension has three manually selectable modes and active dampers for another $2,390. Another tempting option is Porsche’s rear-axle steering ($1,280), making it easier to back a trailer at low speed. Porsche doesn’t offer a specific tow package for the Cayenne, but you can buy a hitch for $660.
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2025 Audi Q7
Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
Starting Price: $61,795 | Expert Rating: 4.5
Value Price for Max Towing: $67,845
Audi’s spacious midsize luxury SUV offers an appealing mix of a smooth ride and excellent handling. And its elegant interior is filled with useful, modern tech. When equipped with the 4-cylinder base engine, the Audi Q7 can tow 4,400 pounds. However, move up to the 55 TFSI model, powered by a 335-hp inline-6, or the high-performance V8-powered SQ7 with 500 hp, and you can tow nearly 8,000 pounds — enough capability to tow a medium-size camper or even a small horse trailer. If you plan to use your Q7 to tow, opt for the $750 hitch. If your budget allows for the top-of-the-line Prestige model, the Q7 benefits from adaptive air suspension. And with this model, you can add all-wheel steering for $1,350.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
Starting Price: $63,000 | Expert Rating: 4.4
Value Price for Max Towing: $66,450
As with the Audi Q7, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has a maximum tow capacity of 7,700 pounds. You can tow a trailer weighing that much behind the turbocharged 4-cylinder GLE 350 with 4Matic all-wheel drive or the more expensive, more powerful GLE 450. The GLE is every bit a Mercedes-Benz, with an elegant cabin housing high-tech infotainment and touchpoints and materials that exude quality.
Mercedes lists two towing options. The first is a Class III trailer hitch ($600), which includes the wiring harness for the trailer lights. The second is Trailer Maneuvering Assist ($350), which makes it easier to position and move your trailer at low speeds. We recommend getting both. Mercedes equips every GLE with trailer stability assist, and the engine, cooling system, and transmission are already set up for towing.
If you want a larger Mercedes SUV that can tow, the full-size Mercedes-Benz GLS is also rated to tow 7,700 pounds.
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2025 BMW X5
Towing Capacity: 7,200 pounds
Starting Price: $67,475 | Expert Rating: 4.7
Value Price for Max Towing: $68,125
The BMW X5 is designed with the performance and driving thrills this brand is known for. The X5 M60i uses a 523-hp V8 with 553 lb-ft and all-wheel drive. Not only is this model quick, with a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.1 seconds, but it’s also an impressive tow vehicle with a maximum capacity of up to 7,200 pounds.
BMW’s X5 sDrive40i (rear-wheel drive) and xDrive40i (all-wheel drive) are also rated to tow 7,200 pounds. The xDrive45e plug-in hybrid has a max towing capacity of 5,952 pounds. To tow those numbers, you’ll need to get the factory-installed tow hitch ($650). The larger BMW X7 provides a bump in towing capability over the X5 to 7,500 pounds.
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2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Towing Capacity: 6,200 pounds
Starting Price: $39,030 | Expert Rating: 4.3
Value Price for Max Towing: $40,025
The Grand Cherokee is available in two sizes: the 5-passenger Grand Cherokee and the 7-passenger Grand Cherokee L. The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a 3.6-liter V6 and can tow a 6,200-pound trailer. That capability applies to 4×2 and 4×4 standard length and L models. The Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) has a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
The Trailer-Tow Package ($995) includes heavy-duty engine cooling, rear load-leveling suspension, a full-size spare tire, a 180-amp alternator, trailer hitch zoom, and an automatic headlight-leveling system. You’ll need to step up one rung to the Laredo trim to get the Trailer Tow Prep Group, which we highly recommend. It’s available on both body styles of the Grand Cherokee for the same price.
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2025 Nissan Pathfinder
Towing Capacity: 6,000 pounds
Starting Price: $37,790 | Expert Rating: 4.1
Value Price for Max Towing: $41,579
The rugged Nissan Pathfinder uses a 284-hp engine backed by a 9-speed automatic transmission and boasts a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, placing its towing capacity above many rivals. The standard tow capacity of the Pathfinder is a modest 3,500 pounds, and you can’t upgrade that capacity on the base S trim.
The most affordable trim level for a 6,000-pound towing capacity is the SV. Opt for the Class II tow hitch receiver ($435), which automatically adds the Tow Hitch Finisher ($131) and 4-pin wiring harness ($131), plus the Class III hitch ball mount ($69) and ball if you need it ($33). You can also get this combination on the SL. Or you can get a Rock Creek or Platinum trim, which comes standard with the Class II hitch. In addition, trailer sway control is standard for all models. The Infiniti QX60, the Pathfinder’s luxury sibling, is also rated to tow 6,000 pounds in the Autograph AWD (as standard) and the Luxe AWD and Sensory AWD when properly equipped.
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2025 Toyota 4Runner
Towing Capacity: 6,000 pounds
Starting Price: $42,265 | Expert Rating: 4.5
Value Price for Max Towing: $53,550
Completely redesigned for 2025, the Toyota 4Runner is bigger, more capable, and more powerful than the previous generation. It can also tow more, too. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter hybrid with a total output of 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque sent through an 8-speed automatic transmission. To get 6,000 pounds of towing capacity, opt for the i-Force Max hybrid, with 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. The most affordable way to do that is with the TRD Off-Road. Toyota also offers a $65 ball mount if you need one.
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2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
Towing Capacity: 6,000 pounds
Starting Price: $58,195 | Expert Rating: 4.2
Value Price for Max Towing: $58,275
The Toyota Land Cruiser was rebooted for 2024, with squared-off blocky styling, (slightly) smaller size, retro design cues, and its 1958 trim level, a welcome return to what we love about the iconic Land Cruiser line. Every trim level of the new Land Cruiser gets a turbocharged 2.4-liter hybrid with a total output of 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque sent through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Land Cruiser has a high-strength boxed frame, which helps ensure it can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, regardless of trim level. A trailer hitch comes standard. The only towing accessory Toyota offers is an $80 ball mount.
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Towing 5,000 Pounds
Many great options can get you into a midsize SUV that can tow 5,000 pounds. While some of these models have a base tow rating of 3,500 pounds, adding a tow package can bring that capability up to 5,000 pounds.
| MAKE AND MODEL | MSRP |
| 2025 Acura MDX | $52,550 |
| 2025 Buick Enclave | $47,090 |
| 2025 Chevrolet Traverse | $42,195 |
| 2025 Ford Explorer | $41,745 |
| 2025 Honda Pilot | $41,650 |
| 2025 Hyundai Palisade | $38,695 |
| 2025 Kia Telluride | $37,805 |
| 2025 Lincoln Aviator | $60,990 |
| 2025 Mazda CX-70 | $42,350 |
| 2025 Mazda CX-90 | $39,500 |
| 2025 Subaru Ascent | $41,415 |
| 2025 Toyota Highlander | $41,315 |
| 2025 Volkswagen Atlas | $39,625 |
Best Compact SUVs for Towing
2026 Land Rover Discovery Sport
Towing Capacity: 4,409 pounds
Starting Price: $51,175 | Expert Rating: 3.7
Value Price for Max Towing: $52,225
Land Rover is known for its off-road prowess and impressive capability. That reputation includes even the smallest models in the lineup, such as the Land Rover Discovery Sport. While the Range Rover Evoque shares its underpinnings with the Disco Sport, the Evoque can tow up to 3,968 pounds, while the Discovery Sport can tow up to 4,409. The Towing Pack, which includes a hitch receiver and Advanced Tow Assist ($1,050), is a reasonable option.
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2025 Audi Q5
Towing Capacity: 4,400 pounds
Starting Price: $53,495 | Expert Rating: 4.5
Value Price for Max Towing: $54,145
The Audi Q5 is one of our favorite SUVs, and it’s all-new for 2025. This past Best Buy winner boasts sporty handling, an elegant interior, and modern tech, and is also a capable tow vehicle. Whether you look at the standard Q5 Premium TFSI model powered by a 268-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or the SQ5 with a 362-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, it will tow 4,400 pounds. Audi doesn’t require a tow package to achieve this towing capacity, but a $650 hitch is available.
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2025 Ford Escape
Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds
Starting Price: $31,010 | Expert Rating: 4.0
Value Price for Max Towing: $35,185
The 2025 Ford Escape is a compelling small SUV with four powertrain choices, including a hybrid and a PHEV. However, only the 2.0-liter EcoBoost will give the Escape a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Models with the 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder can tow 2,000 pounds, and hybrid models can handle trailers up to 1,500 pounds.
The 250-hp 2.0-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder with 280 lb-ft of torque is optional with the Escape ST-Line Select and includes all-wheel drive. This combination is standard on Titanium models. Adding almost 100 lb-ft of torque over the 1.5-liter is a big part of why these 2.0-liter models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the trailer tow package. When you add the Class II Trailer Tow Package ($495), the Escape nets a receiver hitch and wiring harness, trailer sway control, and an auxiliary transmission oil cooler.
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2025 Mazda CX-50
Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds
Starting Price: $31,920 | Expert Rating: 4.5
Value Price for Max Towing: $43,430
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 is as beautiful as it is functional. It has a more refined yet outdoorsy focus than the CX-5 and a choice of two terrific engines. The CX-50 also has a higher towing capacity. To get the 3,500-pound capacity, start with a turbo trim level — the least expensive is the Turbo Meridian — and add the trailer hitch with the 7-pin harness ($560), and you’re set. This hitch automatically enables Tow Mode when your trailer is hooked up.
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2025 Subaru Crosstrek
Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds
Starting Price: $27,980 | Expert Rating: 4.6
Value Price for Max Towing: $34,049
Did you know there is a subcompact SUV that can tow 3,500 pounds? The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek is that SUV, and even though it’s not a compact SUV, we thought it was important to include it on this list. The Crosstrek has recently been updated, with more power, a more refined interior, and the option of the Wilderness trim. In fact, that’s the trim you’ll need to get the 3,500-pound towing capacity. Otherwise, the Crosstrek is limited to 1,500 pounds. Add the $689 trailer hitch, and you’re ready to go.
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