Best 12 SUVs for Towing: Highest Towing Capacity [2021 & 2022]

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Overview

For many people, SUVs’ excellent hauling capabilities are more important than their large amount of passenger room. A sports utility vehicle that can do it all– transport sports teams during the week and handle cross-country road excursions over the vacations. A towing SUV may be the ideal choice for you if you desire top-of-the-line technology, a luxury feel to it, and a capacity for handling any off-road situation.

So if you’re in the market for a towing machine that can’t be stopped, we added together the 12 best SUVs that are more than capable of doing the heavy lifting. We have ranked them based on their maximum towing capability. Whether it’s a boat, trailer, or anything else that needs to be towed, these beasts can handle the job without complaint.

1. Jeep Wagoneer

TOWING CAPACITY: 10,000 lbs

Price: $79,995, Type: Full-size, 3-row

Considered by many the best towing SUV in the world, the Jeep Wagoneer is more than a new car on the market. It’s a vehicle that raises the bar when it comes to performance, easily outpacing its rivals. The Jeep Wagoneer, similar to the bigger Grand Wagoneer (which we’ll talk about later on our list) has more power than we expected.

Obviously, the towing capacity is the most amazing feature. The Wagoneer is the first SUV to reach a massive towing capacity of over 10,000 lbs, due to its big but not full-size structure.

Source: Jeep 

Payload

Depending on the model and trim, the Jeep Wagoneer has payload ratings of 1,510 to 1,580 lbs.

GVWR

Weighing less than the number 2 car on our list, the Jeep Wagoneer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is 5,500 lbs.

GCWR

When it comes to a combined weight rating, it comes close to 10,000 lbs, remaining at a total of 9,400 lbs.

Tires

The tire size for the Jeep Wagoneer ranges from 17-inch wheels all the way to 19 inches. (225/60 R17 to 235/50 R19)

2. Jeep Grand Wagoneer​

TOWING CAPACITY: 9,860 lbs

Price: $100,995, Type: Full-size, 3-row

Along with the Genesis GV80, this beast of an SUV is one of the most anticipated new SUVs for 2021. There’s only one significant difference between the two: this one is far more powerful. This Jeep Grand Wagoneer, like the smaller Wagoneer, outperforms the competitors in towing capacity, but not by as much. This one can only pull up to 9,860 lbs due to the Grand Wagoneer’s additional weight. However, the capability isn’t the only benefit it provides. The Grand Wagoneer will include seating for up to 8 people and luxury interior amenities and materials.

Source: Jeep 

Payload

This vehicle comes with a payload capacity between 1360 to 1450 lbs.

GVWR

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating for the bigger Wagoneer is 6200 lbs.

GCWR

And no surprise that the Combined Weight Rating is also higher than the smaller Jeep. (12,600 lbs)

Tires

Tire size ranges from 18 inches to an impressive 21 inches. ( 265/60R18 to 275/45R21)

3. Ford Expedition

TOWING CAPACITY: 9,300 lbs

Price: $54,505, Type: Full-size, 3-rowThe Ford Expedition has long been regarded as the class’s most powerful vehicle. Other SUVs may have more horsepower, torque, and features, but the Expedition is unconcerned about them. It forges its own path, towing enough gear for any adventure.

Are you fed up with buying pickup trucks solely for their towing capacity? That will no longer be a problem if you choose the Ford Expedition. Make sure you have the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package installed if you want to tow this much. Thankfully, this package costs only $1,400 more and is only available in the Ford Expedition XLT trim, which is the most affordable.

Source: Ford

Payload

Ford Expedition is equipped with a payload capacity of 1750 lbs. However, this number doesn’t remain fixed and fluctuates based on the trim you’re choosing, as with all other vehicles.

GVWR

One of the most powerful vehicles in the world, the Ford Expedition had a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 5,534 lbs.

GCWR

Its Gross Combined Weight Rating reaches a little over 11,000 lbs. (11,100 lbs)

Tires

The range from which you can choose your tire size is between 18 inches and 22. (275/65R18 to 285/45R22)

4. Dodge Durango​

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,700 lbs

Price: $47,517, Type: Midsize, 3-row

The ability to tow may be the most compelling reason to purchase a Durango. A V8 is required to get the maximum rating; the Hellcat and SRT 392 models will manage the weight, but if you can’t justify those hot models, the R/T outfitted with the $4,995 Tow N Go option will. Even without that, the R/original T’s towing capacity of 7,200 lbs is still rather impressive.

Source: Dodge 

Payload

With a payload of 1,380 lbs, the Durango is one powerful car.

GVWR

Its Gross Vehicle Weight rating reaches 7,100 lbs.

GCWR

The combined rating is higher than the previous car we mentioned, reaching 12,200 lbs.

Tires

Tire size starts from 18 inches all the way up to 20. (265/60R18 to 275/50R20).

5. Lincoln Navigator​

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,700 lbs

Price: $77,480, Type: Full-size, 3-row

For those with a big budget, the Navigator seems to be the right choice over the Expedition. The Lincoln Navigator loses a little towing capability, but it still rivals everything else on our list. The Heavy Duty Trailer Tow option ($690), which is not available on the base Standard trim, is required to obtain the maximum rating.

Source: Lincoln

Payload

The Lincoln Navigator has an impressive payload of 1,703 lbs.

GVWR

A heavy car, the Lincoln has a Gross Vehicle Weight rating of 7350 lbs.

GCWR

There’s no surprise here, that a massive 13,800 lbs will be the car’s combined weight rating.

Tires

Tires are larger too. Ranging from 20 inches all the way up to 22. (275/55 R20 and 285/45 R22)

6. Chevrolet Tahoe

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,600 lbs

Price: $67,000, Type: Full-size, 3-row

The Chevrolet Tahoe debuted in 1995 and has remained a popular vehicle ever since. Whether you’re pulling a trailer or a boat, the Tahoe will get the job done. Furthermore, it comes with a competitive starting price and an entirely new design. If we’re being honest, the Chevrolet Tahoe is a great choice for towing from our list of top SUVs. It’s worth noting that all-wheel drive isn’t standard on every Chevy Tahoe, but it still performs admirably.

And did we mention it offers standard seating for eight passengers? During those long road journeys, it can easily seat you and your family.

Source: Chevrolet

Payload

The Tahoe is an impressive car, having a payload of 1,834 lbs.

GVWR

It reaches 7,500 lbs when it comes to Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.

GCWR

And a combined Weight of 12,500 lbs.

Tires

Tire sizes are similar to the previous car, ranging from 20 inches to 22 inches. ( 275/55R20 and 285/45R22)

7. Infiniti QX80​

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,500 lbs

Price: $70,445, Type: Full-size, 3-row

The 2021 Infiniti QX80 is a more luxury version of the Nissan Armada, so it’s no surprise that the trailering capabilities of both of these huge SUVs are equal. In two- or four-wheel drive, the three-row, eight-passenger QX80 has an 8,500-lb towing capacity, and for an additional $370, customers can obtain even more towing capability with the optional Class IV weight-distributing hitch.

Source: Infiniti 

Payload

QX80 offers a maximum payload capacity of up to 1487 lbs.

GVWR

The Infiniti is one heavy car, weighing 7385 lbs.

GCWR

And it’s not a surprise that the combined vehicle weight reaches an impressive 13,500 lbs.

Tires

Tires are also on the larger side. Ranging from 20 inches to 22. ( 275/60R20 to 305/45R22)

8. Nissan Armada

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,500 lbs

Price: $52,500, Type: Full-size, 3-row

The 2021 Nissan Armada has the same maximum towing capacity as the previous model year, despite being extensively upgraded. Unlike most SUVs, the Armada’s maximum towing capacity is the same whether you pick two- or four-wheel drive, and a Class IV weight-distributing hitch is available for an additional $370. On the SV, SL, and Platinum trim levels, a Trailer Brake Controller is standard, and Trailer Sway Control is standard on the SL and Platinum trim levels.

Source: Nissan 

Payload

A car that will not fail you so easily, the Nissan presents a payload of 1508 lbs.

GVWR

When it comes to Gross Weight, it comes with 7300 lbs.

GCWR

And a whopping 14450 lbs in regards to the Combined Weight Rating.

Tires

Tires start all the way from 18 inches and are as big as 22 inches. (265/70R18 to 275/50R22)

9. GMC Yukon & Yukon XL

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,500 lbs

Price: $51,995, Type: Full-size, 3-row

Are you a GMC fan who wants to move to a more powerful and roomy vehicle? The Yukon and Yukon XL were built to do exactly that, and they have GMC’s greatest towing capability. While the towing capacity is somewhat lower than that of the Chevrolet Tahoe, the Yukon series has a superior audio system: a 9-speaker Bose system. They’re both excellent choices; we’ll leave it up to you to determine which you prefer. If the Yukon appeals to you but you need something a little bigger, GMC has you covered. The Yukon XL has all of the features of the Yukon, plus the ability to seat up to 9 people and excellent storage.

Source: GMC

Payload

One of the most powerful cars on our list, the GMC had a maximum payload of 1,792 lbs.

GVWR

The Gross Vehicle Weight is 7,500  lbs.

GCWR

And the Combined Vehicle Weight reaches an impressive 13,000 lbs.

Tires

Tires are 22 inches. (285/45 R22)

10. Chevrolet Suburban

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,300 lbs

Price: $50,295, Type: Full-size, 3-row

Among big SUVs, the Chevrolet Suburban remains a popular choice. We haven’t grown weary of viewing it even though it has been present for 86 years. It will look much better for the 2021 model year when it will be completely redesigned. Everything is still in the Suburban. It has a large cargo area, seating for eight people, and it is capable of handling all towing operations. Above all, the Chevrolet Suburban boasts the best fuel economy in its class at the moment. It’s also available at a reasonable starting price. If you choose the Chevrolet Suburban, you will save money without compromising comfort or quality.

Source: Chevrolet 

Payload

The Chevrolet has a maximum payload of 1750 lbs.

GVWR

The gross vehicle weight being 7500 lbs.

GCWR

And reaching a maximum of 14,000 lbs when it comes to the combined vehicle weight.

Tires

Tire size ranges from 18 inches to 22. (From 265/65 R18 to 285/45 R22)

11. Cadillac Escalade

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,200 lbs

Price: $77,490, Type: Full-size, 3-row

Although the Escalade is a posh luxury vehicle, it is nevertheless a beast. The Heavy-Duty Trailering Package ($600), which is not available on the base Luxury trim, is required to obtain the maximum rating. Note that the diesel reduces the maximum weight capacity to 7,800 lbs.

While it can pull a lot of weight, it’s most renowned for its driving experience. You’ll not only benefit from excellent performance, but you’ll also like the peaceful ride.

Source: Cadillac

Payload

With a slightly smaller payload, the classy Escalade can carry up to 1,420 lbs.

GVWR

When it comes to gross vehicle weight, it reaches an impressive 7,400 lbs.

GCWR

Bringing the total of the Combined Weight to 14,000 lbs.

Tires

Tires are also on the larger size, the smallest being 20 inches and the biggest 22. (From 275/55 R20 to 285/45 R22)

12. Land Rover Discovery

TOWING CAPACITY: 8,200 lbs

Price: $53,650, Type: Midsize, 3-row

The Land Rover Discovery is the ideal blend of elegance and performance. It has a great towing capacity as well as beautiful design elements, as well as tremendous off-road capabilities. The Discovery is for you if you’re wary of restrictions; it has none. The Discovery will confidently surpass all of your hauling demands on and off the road, thanks to the all-wheel drive and Land Rover’s Terrain Response. Are you a fan of off-roading? Check out our selection of the Best New Cars for Off-Road Adventures, which includes some of Land Rover’s most popular models.

Source: Land Rover 

Payload

A massive payload of 1,964 lbs is what the Discovery brings to the table.

GVWR

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is 6,988 lbs.

GCWR

The vehicle’s combined rating reaches 11,863 lbs.

Tires

Also, the tires come in 22 inches. (285/40 R22)

SUV Towing Comparison Table

What to look for when choosing an SUV for towing?

Here are a few crucial factors that you should keep in mind when choosing an SUV for towing:

GCWR & Payload: GCWR stands for Gross Combined Weight Rating. It refers to a combination of the maximum amount of weight a vehicle can carry and the weight of the loaded vehicle itself. Payload, on the other hand, refers to the maximum amount a particular vehicle can carry without crossing safety limits. Checking these two numbers are absolutely necessary before buying a towing SUV.

Towing Capacity: It’s a no-brainer that you will have to check the numbers offered by the manufacturer to know the exact towing capacity of your vehicle.

Powertrain: If you want excellent towing capacity, always look for vehicles with a gutsy powertrain, so that you don’t have to compromise in terms of performance.

Fuel Economy: This is another important aspect you must consider. High-performance vehicles come with robust bodies, and require more fuel to run than regular vehicles. If you want a balance between good towing capacity and decent fuel economy, don’t forget to check the EPA estimates and the real-life mpg of the SUV.

Are there different types of SUVs for towing?

There are multiple SUVs with a varied range of towing capacity. While there are no strict divisions of towing SUVs, they can possess widely distinct demeanors from each other. Each of these vehicles differ in terms of their Gross Combined Weight, payload, towing power, engine, torque and fuel economy.

Final Verdict

Now that you’ve seen our short list of the 12 finest SUVs for towing, think about which one you prefer. We understand that narrowing your choices down to one is difficult. The Wagoneer or Durango are excellent choices if you’re looking for the most value for the money you’re spending. The Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade are excellent choices if you’re looking for a vehicle that has both elegance and capability.

But ultimately, the final decision is all yours. You have to choose a vehicle that meets your towing requirements, and fits within your budget. We hope this article helped you with some valuable insights, and now you’re better equipped to make an informed decision.

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