Top 10 SUVs for Towing

Last updated Jul 21st, 2026

Whether you're pulling a fishing boat, a travel trailer, a utility trailer, or a pair of personal watercraft, choosing the right SUV can make every trip safer and more enjoyable.

Today's SUVs offer impressive towing capabilities while still providing comfortable seating, advanced safety technology, and everyday practicality for families.

The best towing SUVs don't simply offer the highest tow ratings.

They also provide confident handling, powerful engines, trailer assistance technology, and enough interior space for passengers and gear.

For this guide, we selected SUVs that combine strong towing performance with comfort, reliability, and versatility.

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How We Chose These SUVs

Towing is about more than a single number.

To build this list, we considered:

• Maximum towing capacity
• Engine performance
• Torque
• Trailer stability
• Trailer brake controller availability
• Backup assistance technology
• Payload capability
• Interior comfort
• Reliability
• Overall ownership experience

These SUVs are capable of towing confidently while remaining comfortable daily drivers.

Understanding Towing Capacity

Before shopping for a tow vehicle, it's important to understand what towing capacity actually means.

The maximum tow rating represents the heaviest trailer a properly equipped vehicle can safely pull under ideal conditions.

Actual towing capability depends on several factors, including:

• Engine choice
• Drivetrain
• Tow package
• Passenger weight
• Cargo
• Trailer tongue weight

Always verify the specifications for the exact trim level you're considering before purchasing.

Features That Make Towing Easier

Modern SUVs include technology that helps make towing less stressful.

Some of the most useful features include:

• Trailer Backup Assist
• Integrated trailer brake controllers
• Tow haul drive modes
• Blind Spot Monitoring with trailer coverage
• Trailer sway control
• Surround View cameras
• Hitch guidance cameras

These features help drivers tow with greater confidence whether they're launching a boat or backing into a campsite.

1. Ford Expedition

Best For: Families towing large campers and boats.

The Ford Expedition continues to be one of the most capable full-size SUVs available.

When properly equipped, it offers an impressive towing capacity while still providing seating for up to eight passengers and generous cargo space.

Its turbocharged EcoBoost engine delivers strong torque at lower engine speeds, making acceleration with a trailer feel smooth and confident.

Ford also offers a variety of towing technologies, including Pro Trailer Backup Assist, trailer sway control, and multiple camera views that simplify hitching and maneuvering.

For families who regularly tow larger recreational trailers while still needing everyday practicality, the Expedition remains one of the strongest choices on the market.

Things to Consider

Its full-size dimensions provide exceptional capability but may feel large in urban environments.

2. Chevrolet Tahoe

Best For: Drivers who need towing power and everyday versatility.

The Chevrolet Tahoe has earned a loyal following among families who need serious towing capability without moving to a pickup truck.

Available V8 engines provide abundant torque, while available Magnetic Ride Control helps improve ride quality whether towing or commuting.

The Tahoe's spacious interior comfortably accommodates passengers while leaving plenty of room for luggage, camping equipment, or sports gear.

Chevrolet also offers advanced trailering technologies, including hitch guidance, trailer side blind zone alerts, and integrated towing information displayed through the infotainment system.

It's an SUV that works just as well during the workweek as it does on vacation.

Things to Consider

Fuel economy is lower than many midsize SUVs, particularly with the larger V8 engines.

3. Jeep Wagoneer

Best For: Buyers looking for luxury and serious towing capability.

The Jeep Wagoneer combines premium comfort with impressive towing performance.

Its powerful engine options and body-on-frame construction help provide the stability needed when pulling larger trailers.

Inside, passengers enjoy a spacious cabin filled with premium materials, modern technology, and comfortable seating across three rows.

Available towing technologies help reduce stress while hitching and maneuvering, making the Wagoneer easier to manage than its size might suggest.

It's an excellent choice for buyers who want luxury accommodations without giving up serious towing capability.

Things to Consider

Its premium features also contribute to a higher purchase price.

4. Toyota Sequoia

Best For: Long-term reliability.

The Toyota Sequoia combines impressive towing capability with Toyota's reputation for dependability.

Its hybrid powertrain produces strong low-end torque that works particularly well when towing heavier loads, while standard driver assistance technology helps improve confidence on longer trips.

The spacious cabin comfortably seats families while providing plenty of storage for travel gear.

Owners who prioritize reliability alongside towing performance often find the Sequoia to be one of the smartest long-term investments in the full-size SUV segment.

Things to Consider

Cargo space behind the third row is more limited than some competitors.

5. GMC Yukon

Best For: Premium towing confidence.

The GMC Yukon offers much of the capability found in the Chevrolet Tahoe while adding additional refinement throughout the cabin.

Available V8 engines, premium suspension options, and advanced trailering technology make towing feel stable and predictable.

The Yukon also features generous passenger room, upscale materials, and intuitive technology that make long road trips more enjoyable.

Available camera systems provide multiple trailer views that simplify parking, hitching, and navigating crowded campgrounds.

For buyers seeking premium comfort with serious towing capability, the Yukon delivers an outstanding balance.

Things to Consider

Higher trim levels can approach luxury SUV pricing.

6. Nissan Armada

Best For: Powerful towing with a comfortable ride.

The Nissan Armada combines a strong V6 engine with a traditional body-on-frame design that's well suited for towing boats, campers, and utility trailers. Its confident acceleration, smooth highway manners, and available Four Wheel Drive make it a capable companion for long road trips and weekend adventures.

Inside, the Armada offers a spacious cabin with three rows of seating, generous cargo room, and user friendly technology. Trailer Sway Control and available driver assistance features help add confidence when hauling heavier loads.

For families looking for a capable full-size SUV with plenty of comfort, the Armada is a solid choice.

Things to Consider

Its size can make parking and maneuvering more challenging in crowded areas.

7. Lincoln Navigator

Best For: Luxury buyers who tow.

The Lincoln Navigator proves that you don't have to sacrifice luxury to enjoy impressive towing capability.

Powered by a twin-turbocharged engine, the Navigator delivers strong performance while maintaining a quiet, refined ride. The spacious interior features premium materials, supportive seating, and advanced technology that make long trips enjoyable for everyone on board.

Available towing technologies, including trailer backup assistance and multiple camera views, help simplify hitching and maneuvering.

If you frequently tow while wanting first-class comfort, the Navigator is one of the best luxury SUVs available.

Things to Consider

Premium features and technology contribute to a higher purchase price.

8. Lexus GX

Best For: Reliable towing and off-road adventures.

The Lexus GX blends impressive towing capability with exceptional durability and off-road performance.

Built on a rugged platform, the GX is designed to handle challenging terrain while remaining comfortable enough for everyday driving. Its powerful engine and available Four Wheel Drive provide confidence when towing campers or boats to remote destinations.

Inside, the cabin features premium materials and Lexus' reputation for outstanding build quality.

For buyers who value long-term reliability and outdoor capability, the GX is an excellent choice.

Things to Consider

Fuel economy trails many newer crossover-based SUVs.

9. Land Rover Defender

Best For: Adventure-focused towing.

The Land Rover Defender is equally comfortable pulling a trailer as it is exploring rugged trails.

Its capable powertrains, advanced terrain management systems, and strong towing capability make it an excellent choice for owners who enjoy camping, overlanding, or outdoor recreation.

The Defender also delivers a surprisingly refined ride on pavement, with a premium interior and advanced technology that make everyday driving enjoyable.

Whether you're towing an off-road camper or a small boat, the Defender offers impressive versatility.

Things to Consider

Maintenance costs may be higher than many mainstream competitors.

10. Infiniti QX80

Best For: Families wanting comfort and towing capability.

The Infiniti QX80 rounds out our list by combining a spacious luxury interior with the strength expected from a full-size SUV.

Its powerful engine delivers smooth acceleration while towing, and the body-on-frame construction helps provide stability with heavier trailers.

Passengers benefit from comfortable seating across three rows, generous cargo space, and a quiet cabin that's ideal for long highway trips.

For buyers who want luxury accommodations without giving up towing performance, the QX80 remains a compelling option.

Things to Consider

Its large size and weight make it less agile than smaller SUVs during everyday driving.

How Much Towing Capacity Do You Really Need?

It's easy to focus on the highest towing number, but buying more capability than you'll ever use isn't always necessary.

Think about what you'll tow most often.

For example:

• Small utility trailers often weigh less than 2,000 pounds.
• Personal watercraft and small boats typically range from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds with the trailer.
• Many travel trailers weigh between 4,000 and 8,000 pounds.
• Larger campers and enclosed trailers may exceed 8,000 pounds.

Choosing an SUV with some additional towing capacity beyond your expected load can provide a greater margin of confidence and flexibility for future adventures.

Tips for Towing With an SUV

Whether you're new to towing or have years of experience, following a few best practices can improve safety and confidence.

Before every trip:

• Confirm your trailer weight is within the vehicle's towing capacity.
• Check tire pressure on both the SUV and trailer.
• Inspect trailer lights and brake connections.
• Distribute cargo evenly throughout the trailer.
• Secure all equipment before leaving.
• Allow additional stopping distance and take turns more gradually.

These simple habits can make towing smoother while reducing unnecessary stress on your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

The best SUV for towing depends on what you plan to pull and how you'll use your vehicle the rest of the year.

For maximum capability, models like the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Jeep Wagoneer deliver impressive towing performance while remaining practical family vehicles.

Luxury buyers will appreciate the Lincoln Navigator and GMC Yukon, while outdoor enthusiasts may gravitate toward the Lexus GX or Land Rover Defender.

No matter which SUV you choose, selecting the proper tow package and understanding your vehicle's capabilities will help you tow safely and confidently for years to come.

When you're ready to compare trims, browse local inventory, and connect with trusted dealerships, AutoFinder makes it easy to find an SUV that's ready for both everyday life and your next adventure.