Hitch up and go in these mighty SUVs.
Whether for work or play, having a vehicle with a strong towing capacity that can pull your boat, trailer, or heavy equipment is a definite asset. But if your lifestyle doesn't suit a rugged pick-up truck with a smaller cab and wide-open bed, many family-friendly SUVs provide the passenger space, cargo room, and comfort you need—and with comparable max towing capacities.
To get you started on your search, we've expanded our list of the 10 best SUVs for towing, based on CarMax vehicle data and max towing capacity data from nadaguides.com from November 1, 2018 to April 30, 2019.1
8. 2015/2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 2WD Automatic – Estimated 7,400 lbs.1
7. TIE: 2016 Porsche Cayenne 4WD Automatic & 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE 4WD Automatic – Estimated 7,716 lbs.1
6. 2018 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT 4WD Automatic – Estimated 8,000 lbs. 1
5. 2018 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT 2WD Automatic – Estimated 8,300 lbs. 1
4. 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe LT 4WD Automatic – Estimated 8,400 lbs. 1
3. TIE: 2017 Nissan Armada SV 4WD Automatic & 2017 Infiniti QX80 (No Trim) 4WD Automatic – Estimated 8,500 lbs.1
2. 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe LT 2WD Automatic – Estimated 8,600 lbs. 1
1. 2017 Ford Expedition XLT 4WD Automatic – Estimated 9,000 lbs. 1
Who says you need a brawny pick-up truck to make easy work of your towing needs? And if passenger room is what you need, many of these platforms deliver! Many of these models include standard three rows of seating, meaning you'll have enough space for your whole crew and still be able to bring your camper or ATV along for the ride.
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT, 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2017 Nissan Armada, 2017 Infiniti QX80, and 2017 Ford Expedition can also fit eight passengers, depending on the model you choose. If you have your eye on the 2015 Range Rover Sport HSE and need extra passenger room, this trim also offers an optional power-folding third row for added cabin versatility.
If you want your heavy-hauler to boast a touch of luxury, the 2015 Infiniti QX80, 2016 Cayenne, and 2015 Range Rover Sport HSE dazzle with lavish standard features, like leather upholstery, power liftgates, navigation, and power-adjustable driver seats—all at the base level. But if practicality is what you're after, the SUVs on this list offer that too. Starting your vehicle on winter mornings from the comfort of your home is simple with the 2015–2017 Grand Cherokee Limited's remote start system, while the 2017 Armada SV features side-step bars and roof rails for ease of entry and extra cargo room. Many models on this list offer smartphone integration and large displays, too, helping you stay connected while on the road.
Whether you're looking to pull your small boat for a day at the lake or embark on a road trip with your trailer in tow, you're sure to find some great SUVs on this list that also handle daily life very well.
Looking to narrow down your choices beyond hauling capacities? Check these related articles:
1Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Unless otherwise noted, information relating to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.