What Is The Best Car For Towing?

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with a travel trailer, hauling a boat to the lake, or moving heavy equipment for a project, finding the right vehicle is crucial. The question, “What is the best car for towing?” doesn’t have a single answer. The ideal choice depends entirely on what you need to pull, how often you’ll be towing, and your budget. Choosing the wrong vehicle can lead to a stressful, unstable, and even dangerous towing experience.

The market is filled with capable options, from rugged pickup trucks and brawny full-size SUVs to surprisingly powerful midsize models and even some innovative electric vehicles. Finding the best car for towing involves more than just looking at the maximum tow rating. You need to consider factors like wheelbase, powertrain, torque, and available towing packages to ensure you have a vehicle that can handle the load with confidence and stability.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision. We will explore the key technical terms, break down the different classes of towing vehicles, and review some of the top-rated models for 2025. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to select the perfect towing companion for your adventures.

Understanding the Language of Towing

Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to understand the terminology. These figures are the foundation for determining a vehicle’s true towing capability and ensuring you stay safe and legal on the road.

• Towing Capacity: This is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely pull. It’s the number manufacturers advertise most prominently, but it’s not the only one that matters.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum allowable total weight of the vehicle itself, including passengers, cargo, fuel, and all fluids. You should never exceed the GVWR.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum total weight of the tow vehicle and the attached trailer combined. This includes everything in both the vehicle and the trailer.
• Payload Capacity: The maximum weight a vehicle can carry in its cabin and bed/cargo area. This includes passengers, gear, and the trailer’s tongue weight.
• Tongue Weight: The downward force that the trailer’s coupler exerts on the hitch ball of the tow vehicle. Generally, this should be 10-15% of the total trailer weight for conventional trailers.
• Wheelbase: The distance between the centres of the front and rear wheels. A longer wheelbase generally provides greater stability when towing, especially with large trailers.

The 80% Rule: A Guideline for Safety

A critical rule of thumb followed by experienced towers is the “80% rule.” This guideline advises that you should not tow more than 80% of your vehicle’s maximum rated towing capacity. This 20% buffer provides a margin of safety to account for challenging conditions like strong crosswinds, steep grades, and the need for sudden manoeuvres or braking. It reduces strain on the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and brakes, leading to a safer and more controlled towing experience.

Classes of Towing Vehicles: Finding Your Match

Towing vehicles are not one-size-fits-all. They fall into distinct categories, each suited for different types of loads.

Midsize SUVs and Trucks

These vehicles are the versatile all-rounders of the towing world. They are perfect for drivers who need a capable daily driver that can also handle moderate towing tasks on the weekend.

• Typical Towing Capacity: 1,500 kg to 3,500 kg (approx. 3,500 to 7,700 lbs)
• Best For: Small to medium travel trailers, pop-up campers, utility trailers, small boats, and personal watercraft.
• Examples: Dodge Durango, Lexus GX, Ford Ranger.

Full-Size SUVs

Built on truck platforms, full-size SUVs offer a powerful combination of passenger space, cargo room, and serious towing muscle. Their long wheelbases make them exceptionally stable for pulling large loads.

• Typical Towing Capacity: 3,500 kg to 4,500 kg (approx. 7,700 to 10,000 lbs)
• Best For: Large travel trailers, midsize boats, and horse trailers.
• Examples: Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia.

Light-Duty Pickup Trucks (Half-Ton)

This is the most popular class of truck in North America for a reason. Modern half-ton trucks are incredibly versatile, offering a comfortable ride for daily driving while boasting impressive towing and payload capacities.

• Typical Towing Capacity: 4,000 kg to 6,000 kg (approx. 9,000 to 13,000 lbs)
• Best For: Large travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers (with proper configuration), large boats, and car haulers.
• Examples: Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks (Three-Quarter-Ton and One-Ton)

When the loads get truly massive, heavy-duty trucks are the only answer. They are built for work, with powerful diesel engine options, ultra-strong frames, and commercial-grade components.

• Typical Towing Capacity: 8,000 kg to over 16,000 kg (approx. 18,000 to 37,000+ lbs)
• Best For: The largest fifth-wheel RVs, gooseneck trailers, heavy equipment, and multi-car haulers.
• Examples: Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty, Ram 2500/3500, GMC Sierra HD.

The Best Cars for Towing in 2025: A Detailed Review

Here’s a breakdown of the top-performing towing vehicles on the market for 2025, based on expert reviews from sources like Car and Driver and U.S. News & World Report. We’ve organized them by category to help you find the best fit.

Top Performers: Full-Size SUVs

Full-size SUVs are the champions of family-friendly towing, offering immense power without sacrificing passenger comfort.

1. Jeep Wagoneer & Grand Wagoneer

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: The Jeep Wagoneer and its more luxurious sibling, the Grand Wagoneer, sit at the top of the SUV towing hierarchy. To achieve the 10,000-pound max rating, you need to opt for the Heavy-Duty Trailer-Tow Package. The powerful twin-turbo six-cylinder engine provides ample torque for pulling heavy loads with confidence. Beyond its raw strength, the Wagoneer’s long wheelbase provides exceptional stability on the highway, making it an ideal choice for long-distance trips with a large travel trailer. The cabin is cavernous, with adult-friendly seating in all three rows and excellent sound insulation that reduces driver fatigue on long hauls.

2. Ford Expedition

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 9,600 lbs (4,354 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: The Ford Expedition has long been a leader in this class. Its potent twin-turbo V6 engine delivers robust power, while its refined suspension smooths out road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even when not towing. To unlock its highest tow rating, you’ll need the standard-wheelbase model equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package. The Expedition’s interior is a highlight, with high-quality materials and an available massive touchscreen display. Its combination of towing muscle and daily drivability makes it a top contender.

3. Toyota Sequoia

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 9,520 lbs (4,318 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: The latest generation of the Toyota Sequoia comes standard with a potent i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, combining a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor. This setup provides instant torque off the line, which is a huge advantage when pulling a heavy trailer from a standstill. The Sequoia delivers a pillowy, comfortable ride, and its maximum tow rating is accessible on most trims without requiring extensive option packages. While its third row and cargo space are less generous than some rivals, its impressive hybrid power and Toyota’s reputation for reliability make it a compelling choice.

Top Performers: Midsize SUVs

Don’t underestimate the power of midsize SUVs. These models pack a serious punch in a more manageable package.

1. Dodge Durango

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 8,700 lbs (3,946 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: The Dodge Durango is the undisputed muscle car of the SUV world. When properly equipped, particularly in its V8-powered R/T and SRT trims, it offers a towing capacity that rivals many larger SUVs and even some pickup trucks. The available Trailer-Tow Group IV package is a must-have. While its platform is older, its aggressive styling and raw power continue to appeal to buyers who need to tow but want something with a bit more attitude than a typical family hauler.

2. Lexus GX

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 9,096 lbs (4,126 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: Fully redesigned, the Lexus GX boasts formidable towing credentials combined with legendary off-road capability. Its standard twin-turbo V6 provides assertive thrust, and a rugged body-on-frame construction gives it the strength to handle heavy loads. On many trims, its impressive tow rating is available without adding extra packages. The GX is perfect for those who need to tow a boat to a remote lake or an equipment trailer to a rugged job site, blending Lexus luxury with true trail-tackling hardware.

Top Performers: Pickup Trucks

For the ultimate in towing capability and versatility, nothing beats a pickup truck.

1. Ford F-Series Super Duty

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 40,000 lbs (18,144 kg) with a gooseneck hitch
• Why it’s a winner: When it comes to maximum towing, the Ford Super Duty lineup is in a class of its own. Engineered for the most demanding tasks, these trucks are the go-to choice for pulling the largest fifth-wheel RVs and heaviest commercial trailers. The available high-output 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel engine is a torque monster. Ford also packs the Super Duty with innovative towing technology, including Pro Trailer Backup Assist and an onboard scale system that estimates payload in real time.

2. Ram 1500

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: The Ram 1500 is often praised for having the most comfortable ride and the most luxurious interior in the half-ton truck segment, thanks to its unique coil-spring rear suspension (or optional air suspension). But it’s not just about comfort; with the 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque, it’s a highly capable tower. Ram offers a suite of towing aids, including a trailer reverse steering control system that makes backing up a trailer as easy as turning a knob.

3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 / GMC Sierra 1500

• Max Towing Capacity: Up to 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg)
• Why it’s a winner: The General Motors twins offer a wide range of engine choices, including a highly capable 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel that combines impressive torque with excellent fuel economy. Their towing capacities are among the best in the class. GM leads the way with its transparent trailer view camera system, which uses multiple cameras to stitch together an image that makes the trailer virtually disappear, providing an unobstructed view behind the truck.

Comparison of Top Towing Vehicles for 2025

Essential Features for a Towing Vehicle

Simply having a high tow rating isn’t enough. The best cars for towing come equipped with features designed to make the job safer and easier.

• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: This is a non-negotiable feature for towing any heavy trailer. It synchronizes the trailer’s brakes with the vehicle’s brakes, allowing for smooth, controlled stops. Factory-installed controllers are far superior to aftermarket units.
• Tow/Haul Mode: This transmission setting adjusts shift points to hold gears longer, preventing the transmission from “hunting” for gears on hills. It also aids in engine braking on descents, saving your brakes.
• Extended-View Tow Mirrors: Standard mirrors don’t provide an adequate view past the sides of a wide trailer. Proper tow mirrors, which are often power-extendable, are essential for safe lane changes.
• Advanced Camera Systems: Modern trucks and SUVs offer multi-view camera systems that provide a 360-degree bird’s-eye view, a hitch view for easy hook-ups, and even “transparent trailer” views that let you see directly behind your rig.
• Heavy-Duty Cooling: Towing puts immense strain on the engine and transmission, generating a lot of heat. A factory tow package will almost always include upgraded radiators for the engine oil, transmission fluid, and engine coolant to prevent overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I increase my vehicle’s towing capacity?
No. A vehicle’s towing capacity is determined by the manufacturer based on its frame, axles, suspension, brakes, and powertrain. You cannot legally or safely increase this rating. While you can add components like air helper springs or a better hitch, these do not change the fundamental capacity set by the engineers.

2. What is the difference between all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) for towing?
AWD systems are primarily designed for on-road traction in rain or light snow and are common in SUVs. True 4WD systems, found in trucks and rugged SUVs, include a low-range gear set. This low-range gearing provides a significant torque multiplier, which is extremely helpful for getting a heavy load moving on a steep incline or maneuvering a trailer in a tricky, low-speed spot. For serious towing, 4WD is generally superior.

3. How much does a towing package usually cost?
A factory-installed towing package can range from $500 to over $2,500, depending on the vehicle and the package’s contents. While it might seem like an expensive option, it is almost always more cost-effective and better integrated than trying to piece together the components (hitch, wiring, brake controller, cooling upgrades) from aftermarket sources.

4. What is the best SUV for towing a large travel trailer?
For large travel trailers, a long-wheelbase, body-on-frame SUV is the best choice for stability. The Jeep Wagoneer (10,000 lbs) and Ford Expedition (9,600 lbs) are top contenders. Their combination of high tow ratings, powerful engines, and stable platforms makes them perfect for confidently managing a large trailer.

5. Does towing affect my vehicle’s fuel economy?
Yes, significantly. Towing a heavy, un-aerodynamic trailer can reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy by 30% to 50% or more. This is a major factor to consider when planning the budget for a long trip. Diesel engines often see a smaller percentage drop in fuel economy when towing compared to gasoline engines, which is one reason they are popular for long-haul towing.

6. Can electric vehicles be used for towing?
Yes, and some are very capable. The GMC Hummer EV SUV can tow up to 10,000 pounds. However, there’s a major trade-off: towing drastically reduces an EV’s range, often by 50% or more. This means frequent and longer stops for charging, which can be challenging since many charging stations are not designed for a vehicle with a trailer attached.

7. How do I know what kind of hitch I need?
Hitches are rated in classes (Class I to Class V) based on the weight they can handle. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will specify the type of hitch required for its towing capacity. For any significant load, you will need at least a Class III or Class IV weight-distributing hitch, which helps to level the vehicle and trailer and improves stability.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best car for towing is a significant decision that directly impacts your safety and enjoyment. It requires a careful assessment of your needs and a clear understanding of a vehicle’s capabilities beyond just its advertised maximum tow rating. From the versatile Dodge Durango to the mighty Ford Super Duty, there is a perfect towing vehicle for every task.

Focus on the key factors: a wheelbase long enough for stability, a powertrain with ample torque, and the inclusion of a factory tow package with an integrated brake controller. Always respect the 80% rule to ensure a safe margin, and don’t hesitate to invest in features that make towing easier, like advanced camera systems and proper tow mirrors.

By doing your research and matching the vehicle to the load, you can ensure that every journey with your trailer is a smooth, controlled, and stress-free experience. Happy towing