Although some assume a truck is the only way to tow a camper or boat, plenty of SUVs are up to the task.
But not every sport utility vehicle can handle heavy loads. Discovering you’re towing something your car can’t safely pull can be dangerous and costly.
Today, we’re shining our headlights on five rides to get you and your toys where you want to go.
Let’s hit the road!
Modern SUVs Offer Comfort and Impressive Towing Capacity
Over the last 20 years or so, the popularity of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) has been on the rise. Although they were once considered workhorses or reserved for large families, that’s no longer the case.
Sometimes called utes, these large vehicles are sturdy and capable. They often have three rows of seating and sit much higher off the ground than your standard hatchback. Many have standard optional four-wheel drive and all-terrain tires to handle any situation.
But these machines also offer plenty of perks for the daily driver. The higher chassis gives you a wider field of vision and a better look at the road ahead. And most folks simply feel safer in a bigger vehicle.
Space is another big advantage over sedans. A large SUV may be able to hold eight or nine people comfortably, as well as all their gear. Whether hauling kids to soccer practice or picking up enough groceries to feed an army, you’ll have room for everything.
Of course, many SUVs have similar towing capacities to trucks, so you can easily haul your camper or toys. If you’re considering moving up, check out these five picks that can handle nearly any job.
Prefer a truck instead? 5 of the Best Half-Ton Trucks for Towing
#1 Jeep Wagoneer
The new Wagoneer is the hoss of Jeep’s lineup. You already know the brand’s reputation for off-road capabilities. And while this ride won’t handle a boulder field like a two-door Wrangler, it’s the next best thing for a vehicle of its size.
Specifications
Reintroduced in 2021, today’s Jeep Wagoneer is nothing like the original 1960s Woody Wagon. Although they’ve done away with the V-8 engine, the turbo inline six gets the job done. With 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque, you can haul a whopping 10,000 pounds.
You’ll sacrifice some fuel efficiency with this SUV, but that’s to be expected with such a high towing capacity.
Best Features
Size is really where this model shines. The base version features just over 115 cubic feet of space. But if you bump up to the L series, you’ll get nearly 132 cubic feet. Of course, the back two seat rows fold down to deliver plenty of room in the cab.
However, when you’re towing your camper around the country with your family, you know how important that extra legroom can be. Depending on the size of your crew, everyone should have room to stretch out and get comfortable.
#2 Toyota Sequoia
Toyota’s mammoth Sequoia shares many features with the Tundra pickup. But the 2024 edition is only available with the iForce MAX hybrid powertrain. Don’t let that fool you, though. It’s still as mighty as ever.
Specifications
The Sequoia’s electric motor is linked with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6 engine. Together, they boast up to 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, giving this SUV a towing capacity of 9,520 pounds.
With five trim levels to choose from, you’re likely to find one you love. Multimedia touchscreens, backup cameras, and Toyota Safety Sense come standard on each one.
Best Features
Despite its impressive stats, the Sequoia is much more efficient than similar designs. The rear-wheel-drive model gets 24 miles per gallon on the highway and a few less in stop-and-go traffic.
However, it’s no slouch when it comes to speed. Car and Driver tested its abilities and found they could get up to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds.
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, the Sequoia might be it.
Can’t decide? Let us help you! SUV vs. Truck: The Best for Towing a Camper Trailer
#3 Ford Expedition
Similar to the Ford F-150, the Expedition is a powerhouse with the comfort of a luxury vehicle. It can easily shuttle families around town and haul travel trailers across the country.
Specifications
A twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission make this SUV a dream for towing. The standard motor offers 380 horsepower and 470 pounds of torque. However, the Stealth Performance package, available on the Timberline and Limited trims, bumps those numbers to 440 and 510, respectively.
When you’re in the driver’s seat of this beast, you’ll be able to haul upwards of 9,300 pounds.
Best Features
Comfort and versatility are the Expedition’s highlights. Passengers, even adults, won’t feel cramped in the third-row seats. Altogether, the interior boasts 172 cubic feet of wiggle room.
And when you need to make space for your gear, it couldn’t be easier to transition. Power controls allow you to free up that cargo room with the press of a button.
Reduce the mess in your SUV with this Organizer.
#4 Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator is where opulence and proficiency collide. If you’re confident behind the wheel of such a massive machine, you’ll be in the lap of luxury.
Specifications
In 2024, the Navigator says goodbye to two-wheel drive, with AWD becoming the new standard. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission for a powerful, pleasant ride.
Pumping out 440 horses and 510 pounds of torque, it’s a beast in its own right. This SUV can tow up to 8,700 pounds.
Seven passengers will fit comfortably in three rows of seats. And the extended L trim features massive amounts of cargo space.
Best Features
The Navigator’s best features aren’t standard, but they’re worth the extra cost. Other than the baseline model, you can add the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package to any trim. It features Trailer Reverse Guidance to help you back out of even the trickiest spots, sway and brake controls, and much more.
You’ll also get Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360, a suite of safety and driver-assistance features to help boost your confidence as you haul even the most precious cargo.
#5 Dodge Durango
If the first-generation Dodge Durango could see its 2024 glow-up, we think it’d be pretty proud of itself. These days, this SUV is at the top of its class, especially when it comes to towing ability.
Specifications
While the Durango’s standard V-6 engine only pumps out 295 horsepower, these stats change dramatically when you upgrade to the V-8. At this level, you’ll get 360 horses and 390 pounds of torque. Better yet, this souped-up SUV has a towing capacity of 8,700 pounds.
The Tow N Go package amps things up with high-performance suspension, noise cancellation, and integrated trailer brake controls.
Best Features
Durango’s standard technology features might be its greatest strength. Top-of-the-line infotainment centers prevail in every trim. All 2024 models feature blind-spot monitoring, and it knows when you’re towing, so it won’t mistake your camper for another vehicle.
It may not embody the luxury of a Lincoln Navigator, but there’s undoubtedly a place for this sporty SUV.
Choose the Right SUV for Your Towing Needs
Not all SUVs are created equal, and that’s especially true when it comes to towing capacities. Whether pulling a camper, boat, or toy hauler, you’ll want to know your vehicle is up to the task.
If you’re in the market for a new SUV, 2024 is a good time to pick one. High-end components and boosted safety features mean you’re in for an exciting ride!
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