What Is The Best Hybrid For Towing?

Choosing a new vehicle used to be simpler. If you needed to tow a trailer, boat, or camper, you’d likely head straight for a gas-guzzling truck or a large SUV. But times have changed. With a growing focus on fuel efficiency and environmental impact, many drivers are looking for a vehicle that can do it all: handle the daily commute, save money on gas, and still have enough muscle for weekend adventures. This raises a critical question: what is the best hybrid for towing?

For a long time, the words “hybrid” and “towing” didn’t seem to belong in the same sentence. Early hybrids were designed for maximum fuel economy, often at the expense of power and capability. But the latest generation of hybrid vehicles has completely rewritten the rules. Automakers have developed powerful hybrid powertrains that combine electric motors with robust gasoline engines, delivering impressive torque and surprising towing capacities. Now, finding a capable hybrid towing vehicle is not just possible—it’s a smart choice for many buyers.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best hybrid for towing. We’ll explore the different types of hybrids, break down the key factors to consider, and review the top models on the market today. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to select a hybrid vehicle that perfectly balances efficiency with the power you need.

Understanding Hybrid Technology for Towing

Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand how hybrid technology works and why some hybrids are better for towing than others. Not all hybrids are created equal. The type of hybrid system a vehicle uses has a massive impact on its performance, especially when under the strain of pulling a heavy load.

There are three main types of hybrid systems you’ll encounter:

1. Mild Hybrids (MHEV)

A mild hybrid system uses a small electric motor (often called a starter-generator) to assist the gasoline engine. It can’t power the car on its own. Instead, it provides a small boost during acceleration, which helps improve fuel efficiency slightly and smooths out the start-stop function.

• Towing Impact: Mild hybrids generally don’t offer a significant towing advantage. Their towing capacities are typically identical to their non-hybrid gasoline counterparts. The primary benefit is a marginal improvement in fuel economy, but they don’t provide the major torque boost needed for serious hauling.

2. Full Hybrids (HEV)

Also known as “self-charging” hybrids, these vehicles have a larger battery and a more powerful electric motor than mild hybrids. They can run on electricity alone for short distances at low speeds. The gasoline engine and electric motor can work together to provide power, or the engine can work alone while also charging the battery.

• Towing Impact: This is where things get interesting. The instant torque from the electric motor can be a huge help when starting from a stop with a trailer attached. Many modern full hybrid SUVs and trucks are designed with towing in mind, offering substantial power and respectable towing capacities. The Toyota Tundra and Sequoia with the i-FORCE MAX powertrain are prime examples.

3. Plug-in Hybrids (PHEV)

Plug-in hybrids have an even larger battery pack that can be charged by plugging it into an external power source. This allows them to travel a significant distance (usually 40-80 km) on pure electric power. Once the battery is depleted, the vehicle operates like a conventional full hybrid.

• Towing Impact: PHEVs often provide the best of both worlds. They offer a substantial all-electric range for daily driving, meaning you might not use any gas for weeks. When it’s time to tow, the combined output of the gasoline engine and electric motor delivers powerful performance. Many luxury and mainstream PHEV SUVs boast impressive towing ratings, making them a very popular choice for those who want both efficiency and capability.

For anyone serious about towing, full hybrids and plug-in hybrids are the clear winners. Their powertrains are specifically designed to leverage the instant torque of electric motors, which makes a noticeable difference when pulling heavy loads.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hybrid for Towing

Finding the best hybrid for towing goes beyond just looking at the maximum towing capacity. You need to consider a range of factors to ensure the vehicle can handle your specific needs safely and effectively.

1. Maximum Towing Capacity

This is the most obvious and important number. It’s the manufacturer-specified maximum weight that the vehicle can safely pull. It’s critical to know the weight of what you plan to tow—including the trailer and all the gear inside it—and choose a vehicle with a towing capacity that comfortably exceeds that number. A good rule of thumb is to ensure your trailer’s loaded weight is no more than 85% of your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for handling, braking, and climbing hills.

2. Drivetrain and Engine Power (Torque and Horsepower)

Towing isn’t just about horsepower; it’s about torque. Torque is the rotational force that gets the load moving, and it’s especially important when pulling a heavy trailer from a standstill or up a steep incline. Hybrid vehicles excel here because electric motors produce their maximum torque instantly (at 0 RPM).

• Look for high combined torque figures. The combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor can produce impressive numbers. For example, the Toyota Sequoia’s hybrid powertrain generates a massive 583 lb-ft of torque.
• Consider the drivetrain. All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) systems provide better traction, which is a significant advantage when pulling a trailer on slippery surfaces like wet boat ramps or gravel roads.

3. Vehicle Weight and Wheelbase

A heavier vehicle is generally more stable when towing. The extra weight helps prevent the trailer from pushing the vehicle around, a dangerous situation known as “the tail wagging the dog.”

Similarly, a longer wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear axles) also contributes to towing stability. This is why full-size SUVs and pickup trucks are often preferred for heavy-duty towing over smaller, more compact models. When comparing two hybrids with similar towing capacities, the one that is heavier and has a longer wheelbase will likely provide a more confident towing experience.

4. Factory-Installed Tow Package

Many vehicles that are rated for towing offer an optional factory-installed tow package. This is more than just a trailer hitch. A proper tow package often includes:

• A frame-mounted hitch receiver.
• Upgraded wiring harnesses for trailer lights and brakes.
• An enhanced cooling system for the engine and transmission.
• A trailer brake controller or a pre-wiring setup for one.
• Sometimes, a specific “Tow/Haul” driving mode that adjusts transmission shift points.

Opting for a factory tow package is highly recommended. It ensures all components are designed to work together and can help protect your vehicle’s warranty.

5. Braking System

Stopping a heavy load is just as important as pulling it. Look for vehicles with large, robust brakes. Additionally, a trailer brake controller is an essential piece of safety equipment for any trailer over about 1,500 pounds. Some hybrids, particularly trucks, may come with an integrated trailer brake controller as part of the tow package, which is a huge plus.

Top Hybrid Vehicles for Towing in 2025

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s look at some of the best hybrid models available today that excel at towing. We’ve broken them down into categories based on their capability and size.

The Heavy-Duty Haulers: Full-Size SUVs and Trucks

For those who need to tow heavy campers, large boats, or serious equipment, these full-size hybrids offer maximum power without the full fuel penalty of their gasoline-only counterparts.

1. Toyota Sequoia (Hybrid)

The redesigned Toyota Sequoia is now exclusively a hybrid, and it’s a towing beast. It shares its platform and powerful powertrain with the Tundra pickup truck.

• Powertrain: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
• Towing Capacity: Up to 9,520 lbs (4,318 kg)
• Key Features: The Sequoia’s hybrid system is built for power, producing 437 horsepower and a staggering 583 lb-ft of torque. Its body-on-frame construction and long wheelbase make it an incredibly stable towing platform. It comes standard with a tow package that includes a Class-IV hitch receiver and an integrated trailer brake controller.
• Best For: Families who need to tow large travel trailers or boats and want a reliable, three-row SUV.

2. Toyota Tundra (Hybrid)

The hybrid version of the Toyota Tundra brings the same i-FORCE MAX powertrain to a pickup truck format, offering even more versatility.

• Powertrain: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
• Towing Capacity: Up to 12,000 lbs (5,443 kg)
• Key Features: With one of the highest towing capacities of any hybrid on the market, the Tundra is a true workhorse. Its electric motor provides instant torque that makes pulling heavy loads feel effortless. Advanced features like Trailer Back-Up Guide and Straight Path Assist make maneuvering a trailer easier than ever.
• Best For: Anyone who needs the utility of a pickup truck and maximum towing power, from contractors to RV enthusiasts.

3. Lexus LX Hybrid

For those who demand luxury along with capability, the Lexus LX 700h offers a refined version of the powerful hybrid system found in its Toyota cousins.

• Powertrain: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid
• Towing Capacity: Up to 8,000 lbs (3,628 kg)
• Key Features: The LX combines brute force with Lexus’s signature refinement. It features a supremely comfortable interior and advanced off-road technology. While its towing capacity is slightly less than the Sequoia’s, it’s more than enough for most luxury campers and boats, and it delivers a towing experience wrapped in opulence.
• Best For: Discerning buyers who want a premium, go-anywhere SUV that can also tow a substantial load without breaking a sweat.

The Versatile All-Rounders: Mid-Size & Large Crossover SUVs

This category is perfect for those who need to tow mid-size trailers, pop-up campers, or utility trailers, but also want a comfortable and efficient daily driver. Many of the best options here are plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

1. Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (PHEV)

The Grand Cherokee has a legendary reputation for off-road prowess, and the 4xe plug-in hybrid model adds impressive efficiency and power to the mix.

• Powertrain: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder PHEV
• Towing Capacity: Up to 6,000 lbs (2,721 kg)
• Key Features: The Grand Cherokee 4xe offers about 42 km of all-electric range, perfect for emission-free daily errands. When towing, its combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque provide plenty of grunt. Its Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system ensures excellent traction in all conditions.
• Best For: Adventurous individuals or families who need a vehicle that is equally capable on the trail, on the highway, and at the boat ramp.

2. Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid (PHEV)

If performance is your top priority, the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid proves that you don’t have to sacrifice driving pleasure for efficiency and utility.

• Powertrain: 3.0L Turbocharged V6 PHEV
• Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 lbs (3,492 kg)
• Key Features: This is a performance SUV first and foremost. The Cayenne E-Hybrid is incredibly fast and handles like a sports car, yet it can tow more than many traditional SUVs. It offers multiple power levels, with the top-tier Turbo E-Hybrid producing a massive 729 horsepower. It’s a stunning piece of engineering.
• Best For: Driving enthusiasts who need a practical SUV that can tow a race car trailer or a luxury boat and still deliver a thrilling driving experience.

3. Volvo XC90 Recharge (PHEV)

Volvo has long been synonymous with safety, and the XC90 Recharge combines that peace of mind with elegant Scandinavian design and powerful plug-in hybrid performance.

• Powertrain: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder PHEV
• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
• Key Features: The XC90 Recharge offers three rows of seating and a beautifully crafted, minimalist interior. Its PHEV system provides a healthy all-electric range of about 53 km. With standard AWD and a robust chassis, it’s a confident and stable tow vehicle for mid-size loads.
• Best For: Safety-conscious families looking for a luxurious and efficient three-row SUV to tow a modest camper or boat.

Comparison Chart of Top Hybrid Towing Vehicles

Note: Towing capacities can vary by trim level and optional equipment. Always confirm with the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact model you are considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hybrid Towing

1. Does towing significantly reduce a hybrid’s fuel economy?
Yes, towing will reduce the fuel economy of any vehicle, including a hybrid. However, the impact might be less dramatic than you think, especially in city driving or hilly terrain where the hybrid’s regenerative braking can recapture some energy. The instant torque from the electric motor can also make the engine work less hard when accelerating, which helps efficiency. Expect a drop, but a capable hybrid will still likely be more efficient than a comparable non-hybrid gas V8 while towing.

2. Can I tow a trailer in a hybrid’s EV-only mode?
It depends on the vehicle and the load. Most PHEVs will automatically engage the gasoline engine when a trailer is detected or when the power demand exceeds what the electric motor can provide. Towing a very light load might be possible for a short distance in EV mode, but for any serious towing, the gas engine will be an essential part of the powertrain.

3. Are there any special maintenance considerations for towing with a hybrid?
The maintenance is largely the same as for any tow vehicle. This includes regularly checking your tire pressure (on both the vehicle and the trailer), inspecting your brakes, and ensuring all fluid levels are topped up. Given the extra strain on the powertrain, it’s wise to adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid changes.

4. What is “tongue weight” and why is it important for hybrids?
Tongue weight is the downward force that the trailer tongue exerts on the hitch ball. It’s a critical factor for towing stability. Proper tongue weight should be 10-15% of the total loaded trailer weight. Exceeding the vehicle’s specified maximum tongue weight can overload the rear suspension, negatively affecting steering and braking. This is especially important for unibody crossover SUVs (which many hybrids are), as their suspension may not be as robust as a body-on-frame truck.

5. Is a hybrid better for towing than a diesel vehicle?
It depends on the priority. Diesel engines are renowned for their low-end torque and fuel efficiency during long-haul highway towing, and they often have very high towing capacities. However, modern high-power hybrids like the Tundra i-FORCE MAX now rival or exceed the torque figures of many consumer-grade diesel trucks. A hybrid offers more versatility, providing better fuel economy in city driving and a quieter, smoother ride. For extreme, constant, heavy-duty towing, a diesel might still have the edge. For mixed-use driving with occasional to frequent towing, a powerful hybrid is often the more practical and comfortable choice.

Final Thoughts

The debate over the best hybrid for towing is a sign of how far automotive technology has come. You no longer have to choose between a powerful hauler and an efficient daily driver. From robust pickup trucks like the Toyota Tundra Hybrid that can pull 12,000 pounds to versatile PHEV SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe that can handle your daily commute on electricity alone, there is a hybrid towing solution for almost every need.

The key is to honestly assess your requirements. Know the weight of what you need to tow, consider the conditions you’ll be driving in, and don’t overlook crucial factors like wheelbase, tow packages, and torque figures. By doing your homework and selecting a vehicle with a comfortable capability margin, you can confidently hook up your trailer and hit the road, enjoying the power you need and the efficiency you want.
capable hybrids. The right one might just be the perfect partner for your next big adventure.