What Is The Towing Capacity Of Hybrid Suvs?

Hybrid SUVs are becoming more popular than ever. They offer a fantastic blend of fuel efficiency and the space families and adventurers need. But one question often comes up: what is the towing capacity of hybrid SUVs? Many people assume that choosing a hybrid means giving up the power to pull a trailer, a boat, or a camper. For a long time, that was true. Early hybrids were built for sipping fuel, not for heavy hauling.

Thankfully, times have changed. Today’s automotive technology has advanced so much that you no longer have to choose between efficiency and strength. Modern hybrid powertrains, especially in larger SUVs, are engineered to deliver surprising muscle. The combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor can produce impressive torque, which is the force needed for towing.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the towing capacity of hybrid SUVs. We’ll explore what determines a vehicle’s towing ability, highlight the top models on the market, and provide a clear comparison to help you find the right fit. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or need to haul gear for a project, you’ll see that a hybrid SUV might just be the powerful and practical vehicle you’re looking for.

Understanding Towing Capacity: What Do the Numbers Mean?

Before we dive into specific models, it’s important to understand the basics of towing. When you see a vehicle’s “towing capacity,” it’s not just one simple number. It’s the result of careful engineering that involves the engine, transmission, frame, brakes, and suspension.

Key Towing Terms Explained

When you start looking at towing specs, you’ll see a lot of acronyms. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most important ones.

• Towing Capacity: This is the big one. It’s the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely pull. This number is set by the manufacturer after extensive testing and is the most important figure to know.
• Payload Capacity: This is the total weight a vehicle can carry inside it, including all passengers, cargo in the trunk, and the “tongue weight” of the trailer. People often forget to account for payload when towing.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum allowed weight of your SUV when it’s fully loaded. This includes the vehicle itself, all your passengers, cargo, and the trailer’s tongue weight. You should never exceed the GVWR.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): This is the maximum total weight of your loaded SUV and your loaded trailer combined. It’s the absolute limit for the entire setup.
• Tongue Weight: This is the downward force that the trailer’s tongue puts on the hitch of your SUV. A proper tongue weight is usually 10-15% of the total trailer weight. It’s crucial for stability; too little or too much can make the trailer sway dangerously.

For example, if you are towing a 4,000-pound trailer, the tongue weight should be between 400 and 600 pounds. This 400-600 pounds counts towards your SUV’s payload capacity. So, if your SUV has a payload of 1,200 pounds, you’ll have 600-800 pounds left for people and gear inside the vehicle.

Why Do Hybrid SUVs Have Different Towing Capacities?

You might wonder why one hybrid SUV can tow 5,000 pounds while another can only handle 1,500. It comes down to how they are built and the type of hybrid system they use.

1. Full Hybrids vs. Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs):

• Full Hybrids (HEVs): These vehicles, like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, have a smaller battery that recharges through braking and the gas engine. They often have lower towing capacities because their electric motors are designed primarily to assist with fuel economy, not to provide massive pulling power.
• Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs): These vehicles, like the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, have a much larger battery that can be plugged in to charge. This allows for a more powerful electric motor that can contribute significant torque for towing. PHEVs often have higher towing capacities than standard hybrids.

2. Engine and Motor Power: The combined horsepower and torque from the gas engine and electric motor are the biggest factors. More torque, especially at low speeds, means better pulling power. Powerful PHEVs often deliver instant torque from their electric motors, making it easier to get a heavy trailer moving.
3. Cooling Systems: Towing puts a lot of strain on the engine and transmission, generating a lot of heat. SUVs built for towing come with heavy-duty cooling systems, including larger radiators and transmission coolers, to handle this extra stress. Many hybrids not designed for towing lack this robust cooling.
4. Frame and Suspension: A strong, durable frame is essential for towing. Body-on-frame SUVs (like the Toyota Sequoia) are traditionally better for towing than unibody crossover SUVs. However, many modern unibody SUVs have reinforced frames and suspensions that allow them to tow impressive amounts.

What Can You Realistically Tow with a Hybrid SUV?

Knowing the numbers is one thing, but what does a 3,500-pound or 6,000-pound towing capacity actually mean for your weekend plans? Let’s translate these weights into real-world trailers and toys.

Light Towing (1,500 – 2,500 pounds)

Many smaller hybrid SUVs fall into this category. This capacity is perfect for light-duty tasks.

What you can tow:

• A small utility trailer for trips to the hardware store
• A jet ski or personal watercraft
• A small aluminum fishing boat
• A teardrop or pop-up camper for two people

Example Vehicles: Ford Escape Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Medium Towing (3,500 – 5,000 pounds)

This is the sweet spot for many families. It opens up a world of possibilities for recreational activities.

What you can tow:

• A larger pop-up camper that can sleep a family
• A small to mid-size travel trailer (around 16-20 feet)
• A larger fishing boat or a small ski boat
• A trailer with a couple of ATVs or dirt bikes

Example Vehicles: Mazda CX-70 PHEV, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Lexus TX Hybrid

Heavy Towing (5,000 – 7,700+ pounds)

This is where the most capable hybrid SUVs shine, competing directly with their gasoline-only counterparts.

What you can tow:

• A mid-size to large travel trailer (over 20 feet)
• A two-horse trailer
• A larger ski boat or wakeboard boat

Example Vehicles: Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, Toyota Sequoia (all trims are hybrid)

Important Tip: Always check the actual weight of the trailer you plan to tow. The “dry weight” listed by the manufacturer does not include water, propane, gear, and other supplies. Your fully loaded trailer can weigh hundreds or even thousands of pounds more than its dry weight.

Top Hybrid SUVs for Towing in 2025

The market for tow-capable hybrid SUVs is growing fast. Automakers have recognized the demand for vehicles that are both efficient and powerful. Here’s a look at some of the best models available, categorized by their towing muscle.

The Heavy Hitters: Towing Over 6,000 Pounds

These are the most powerful hybrid SUVs on the market, built for serious hauling. They prove that you don’t have to sacrifice power for efficiency.

1. 2025 Toyota Sequoia

• Towing Capacity: Up to 9,520 pounds
• Powertrain: i-FORCE MAX 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid
• Why it’s a great choice: The Sequoia is a beast. Every single model comes standard with a hybrid powertrain, so you don’t have to choose between the best engine and fuel economy. Its body-on-frame construction makes it a true workhorse, and its massive towing capacity puts it at the top of the hybrid SUV class. It’s built on the same platform as the Tundra truck, giving it a solid foundation for heavy-duty tasks.

2. 2025 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid

• Towing Capacity: Up to 7,716 pounds
• Powertrain: Turbocharged V6 or V8 with an electric motor (PHEV)
• Why it’s a great choice: The Cayenne E-Hybrid combines luxury, performance, and surprising utility. It’s one of the few luxury PHEVs that doesn’t compromise on towing. Whether you’re towing a horse trailer or a race car, the Cayenne handles it with ease, all while offering a premium driving experience.

3. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

• Towing Capacity: Up to 6,000 pounds
• Powertrain: 2.0L Turbocharged I-4 with an electric motor (PHEV)
• Why it’s a great choice: The Grand Cherokee has a legendary reputation for off-road capability and towing, and the 4xe plug-in hybrid model is no exception. It delivers impressive torque and a solid 6,000-pound tow rating, making it a versatile choice for families who need to tow a decent-sized camper or boat while also enjoying some all-electric driving around town.

4. 2025 Land Rover Defender & Range Rover PHEV

• Towing Capacity: Up to 7,716 pounds (Defender) / 5,511 pounds (Range Rover)
• Powertrain: Varies by model (PHEV)
• Why it’s a great choice: Land Rover’s PHEV models offer a blend of extreme off-road capability and towing power. The Defender, in particular, is a rugged option that can handle nearly any task you throw at it. The Range Rover PHEV provides a more luxurious experience with a respectable towing capacity.

The Capable Mid-Range: Towing 3,500 to 5,000 Pounds

This category includes some of the most popular and practical hybrid SUVs, offering a perfect balance of everyday usability and weekend-warrior capability.
3.5L V6 (PHEV)
of both a standard hybrid and a more powerful PHEV gives buyers options based on their needs.

• Why it’s a great choice: As a larger, three-row SUV, the Lexus TX Hybrid is designed for families. Its 5,000-pound towing capacity is more than enough for most family campers and boats. The availability
  1. 2025 Lexus TX Hybrid
  2. 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds
• Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds
• Powertrain: 2.4L Turbo in-line 4-cylinder Hybrid or* Powertrain: 2.5L 4-cylinder Hybrid
• Why it’s a great choice: The Highlander Hybrid is one of the most trusted names in the three-row SUV market. While its 3,500-pound towing capacity isn’t massive, it’s sufficient for many families looking to tow a pop-up camper or a small fishing boat. Its reputation for reliability and excellent fuel economy makes it a smart, practical choice.

3. 2025 Mazda CX-70 & CX-90 PHEV

• Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds
• Powertrain: 2.5L 4-cylinder with an electric motor (PHEV)
• Why it’s a great choice: Mazda has entered the PHEV market with a focus on driving enjoyment and premium design. The CX-70 (two-row) and CX-90 (three-row) offer a 3,500-pound tow rating. This is perfect for buyers who want a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV that can still handle light-to-medium towing duties.

4. 2025 Volvo XC90 Recharge

• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds
• Powertrain: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder with an electric motor (PHEV)
• Why it’s a great choice: The XC90 Recharge is a leader in safety and Scandinavian design. Its 5,000-pound tow rating makes it a strong contender in the luxury three-row PHEV space. It’s an ideal vehicle for families who prioritize safety and sustainability without giving up the ability to tow a substantial trailer.

Hybrid SUV Towing Capacity Comparison Chart

Here is a simple chart to help you compare some of the top hybrid SUVs available in 2025. Note that capacities can sometimes vary by trim level and optional equipment.

Important Tips for Towing with a Hybrid SUV

Towing with a hybrid is very similar to towing with a gas vehicle, but there are a few unique things to keep in mind.

1. Check for a Tow Package: Many SUVs only achieve their maximum tow rating with an optional “tow package.” This package usually includes a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and crucial upgrades like a transmission cooler and heavy-duty radiator. Make sure the vehicle you buy is properly equipped.
2. Understand the Impact on Fuel Economy: While your hybrid is efficient in daily driving, towing a heavy trailer will significantly reduce your fuel economy. The gas engine will be working much harder, and the electric motor’s assistance will be focused on providing torque, not saving fuel. Expect your mileage to drop considerably.
3. Know Your Electric Range (PHEVs): If you have a PHEV, don’t expect to tow very far on electric power alone. The electric motor is great for getting started and assisting the engine, but the battery will drain quickly under the strain of pulling a heavy load. You’ll be relying on the gas engine for most of the journey.
4. Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to towing, practice in an empty parking lot before heading out on the open road. Get a feel for how the SUV accelerates, brakes, and turns with the extra weight and length of the trailer. Practice backing up, as this is often the most challenging part.
5. Properly Load Your Trailer: Balance is everything. Make sure about 60% of the trailer’s weight is in front of the trailer’s axle, and ensure the tongue weight is between 10-15% of the total trailer weight. An improperly loaded trailer is a major cause of dangerous trailer sway.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does towing void the warranty on a hybrid SUV?
No, as long as you are towing within the manufacturer’s specified limits and the vehicle is properly equipped for towing. If you exceed the maximum towing capacity or use improper equipment and cause damage, that damage may not be covered by the warranty.

2. Is it better to get a hybrid or a diesel SUV for towing?
Diesel engines are known for their high torque and excellent towing performance, often with better fuel economy while towing compared to gas engines. However, modern powerful hybrid SUVs, especially PHEVs, are closing the gap. A hybrid offers the added benefit of better fuel efficiency and quieter operation in everyday driving when you’re not towing. The choice depends on your priorities and how often you plan to tow.

3. Can I add an aftermarket hitch to a hybrid that isn’t rated for towing?
You can, but it’s not recommended for pulling anything heavy. A vehicle that isn’t rated for towing from the factory lacks the necessary cooling systems, frame strength, and suspension to handle the load safely. Adding a hitch to such a vehicle should only be for things like a bike rack, not for pulling a trailer.

4. How does regenerative braking work when towing?
Regenerative braking, which recharges the hybrid battery when you slow down, still functions when you’re towing. However, the system will be working alongside the vehicle’s traditional friction brakes to slow the combined weight of the SUV and trailer. You shouldn’t rely on regenerative braking alone to slow down a heavy load, especially on steep downhills.

5. Do I need special brakes for my trailer?
Most provinces require trailers over a certain weight (often around 3,000 pounds) to have their own braking system. These “trailer brakes” are electronically connected to your SUV and activate when you press the brake pedal. This takes a huge amount of strain off your vehicle’s brakes and is a critical safety feature. Your tow-ready SUV should have a wiring harness to support a trailer brake controller.

6. Does “Tow Mode” in a hybrid SUV actually do anything?
Yes, it does. When you activate Tow/Haul mode, the vehicle’s computer adjusts the transmission’s shift points, holding lower gears longer to provide more power and prevent the transmission from “hunting” for gears. It can also make the throttle response smoother and, in some vehicles, adjust the suspension for better stability.

Final Thoughts

The question of “what is the towing capacity of hybrid SUVs?” no longer comes with a disappointing answer. Thanks to incredible advancements in powertrain technology, you can now find a wide range of hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs that are more than capable of handling your towing needs. From light utility trailers to large family campers, there is a hybrid SUV built for the task.

The key is to do your homework. Understand the different types of towing capacities and what they mean for the real world. Be realistic about what you need to tow and choose a vehicle that can handle the weight safely and confidently. Always make sure your SUV is properly equipped with a factory tow package to get the best performance and protect your vehicle.

With models like the Toyota Sequoia pushing nearly 10,000 pounds and many family-friendly options in the 3,500 to 6,000-pound range, the myth that hybrids are weak has been busted. You can now enjoy the benefits of improved fuel efficiency in your daily commute and still have the power you need for your weekend adventures.