Buying an SUV With the Best Towing Capacity

There are a lot of things to consider when buying an SUV with towing capability. The most important factor is the vehicle’s maximum Towing in Henderson NV rating.

The 2023 Dodge Durango’s max towing capacity is a whopping 8,700 pounds thanks to its hybrid powertrain. That makes it one of the best SUVs for towing.

SUVs

While pickup trucks usually come to mind when it comes to heavy hauling, SUVs can be equally capable if they are properly equipped. Thanks to powerful engines and often truck-based chassis, many SUVs can easily tow a trailer or camper without compromising the comfort of the passengers inside the vehicle.

The GMC Yukon, for instance, is a full-size SUV that has a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds. This top-rated heavy-hauler provides a smooth ride and plenty of creature comforts, including exclusive interior designs and 13 camera views that include High Definition Surround Vision.

Another SUV that is surprisingly good at towing is the Audi Q7, an upscale luxury family hauler that can pull up to 7,700 pounds when equipped with the towing package. This all-wheel-drive German luxury SUV is a true jack of all trades, offering European excellence and canyon-carving exhilaration for the whole crew.

Ford’s Expedition, a full-size SUV that was completely revamped for 2023 and now shares a platform with the redesigned Tundra pickup, is also a top pick for SUV towing. The Expedition’s max towing rating of 9,300 pounds is based on RWD with the 400-hp twin-turbocharged V-6 and the optional heavy-duty trailer tow package.

Trucks

In a truck-mad culture, towing capacity has always been a big deal. Just like top speed for supercar fans, a hefty number is a sign of engineering prowess that impresses drivers and buyers alike. But a truck’s maximum towing capability isn’t just there for bragging rights. It requires raw power, a transmission that can distribute it evenly, enough cooling to prevent overheating, brakes that can stop that massive load and axles to support its weight.

Fortunately, there are many trucks on the market that have what it takes to tow your trailer. We’ve rounded up the best of them here, ranging from light-duty midsize pickups to brawny brutes. We focused on models that offer towing ratings in the 6,000- to 13,000-pound range, which is plenty for most light camper and equipment trailers. But if you’re planning to haul a fifth wheel or other larger trailer, a heavy-duty model may be better for you.

Boats

When someone wants to buy a boat, they’ll need a vehicle capable of towing it. Sedans and small SUVs can only tow one jet ski, while larger vehicles like the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Expedition are capable of towing 7,000 pounds. Towing capacities go up from there, and once you hit 10,000 pounds, it’s time to step up to a light duty truck that has a higher maximum towing capacity.

Towing in Henderson NV packages are available for many trucks, which help enhance towing capability with features like a trailer sway control system and a dedicated tow/haul mode. A reputable scale at a truck stop can help you determine the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) capacity for your vehicle, which takes into account the weight of the vehicle, loaded trailer and all people and equipment in the vehicle. Tongue weight is another important consideration, as it’s the amount of pressure on the trailer’s tongue pressing down onto the hitch ball.

Motorcycles

There is no shortage of things that can go wrong when pulling a motorcycle trailer. The most common problems involve brakes, lights and other parts on the trailer or tow vehicle. It’s also not uncommon to run into trouble when hooking up a trailer for the first time. This is especially true if the tow vehicle and trailer are not the same size or have different types of hitches.

One of the simplest ways to tow a motorcycle is with a dolly. A basic model from Ecotric can take the weight of a single motorcycle and is easy to use. However, it does not lower to the ground, so it still requires ramps. For those who want a more comprehensive solution, a motorcycle trailer can be built from scratch or purchased off-the-shelf. Some manufacturers, like Georgia based Diamond Cargo, make high-caliber rolling enclosures that can be customized with add-ons such as insulation, heat/air and storage.