When it comes to towing a trailer, boat, camper, or even a heavy load, not every car is built for the job. The best cars for towing combine powerful engines, strong frames, advanced safety features, and excellent towing capacities. Choosing the right vehicle ensures not only performance but also safety and efficiency on the road.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What makes a good car for towing
- Top cars and SUVs for towing
- Key features to look for
- Towing capacities and costs
What Makes a Good Car for Towing?
Before diving into the best vehicles, let’s break down the qualities that make a car ideal for towing:
- High Towing Capacity – The most important factor. Look for vehicles rated for 3,500 lbs and above if you plan on towing campers or boats.
- Engine Power – Turbocharged or V6/V8 engines provide better torque for pulling heavy loads.
- Transmission Strength – Automatic transmissions with tow/haul modes help control speed and prevent overheating.
- Braking System – Vehicles with integrated trailer brake controllers offer safer towing.
- Stability Features – Sway control, all-wheel drive, and suspension strength improve stability.
Best Cars and SUVs for Towing
While trucks often dominate towing conversations, there are several cars and SUVs built to handle towing efficiently. Here are some of the best:
1. Dodge Durango
- Towing Capacity: Up to 8,700 lbs
- Why It’s Great: A powerful SUV with multiple V6 and V8 options, roomy interior, and AWD for control.
2. Chevrolet Tahoe
- Towing Capacity: Up to 8,400 lbs
- Why It’s Great: Large SUV with excellent towing tech, including trailer sway control and hitch guidance.
3. Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,200 lbs
- Why It’s Great: Perfect balance between luxury, off-road ability, and towing strength.
4. Ford Explorer
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,600 lbs
- Why It’s Great: A family SUV with turbocharged engine options and advanced safety features.
5. Toyota Land Cruiser
- Towing Capacity: Up to 8,100 lbs
- Why It’s Great: Legendary durability, off-road capability, and excellent long-distance towing.
6. Subaru Ascent
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Why It’s Great: Reliable midsize SUV with symmetrical all-wheel drive, perfect for camping trailers.
7. Kia Telluride
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Why It’s Great: Affordable, stylish SUV with strong towing performance for families.
Best Luxury Cars for Towing
Some luxury cars and SUVs are also excellent towers while providing premium comfort:
- Range Rover Sport – Tows up to 7,716 lbs with effortless handling.
- Audi Q7 – Tows up to 7,700 lbs with luxury design and strong turbocharged engines.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS – Tows up to 7,500 lbs with cutting-edge stability systems.
Best Affordable Cars for Light Towing
If you’re not towing massive trailers, some smaller cars can handle light towing (up to 2,000 lbs):
- Volkswagen Golf Alltrack – Tows up to 2,000 lbs, ideal for bikes or small trailers.
- Mazda CX-5 – Tows up to 2,000 lbs, perfect for light-duty towing.
- Honda CR-V – Tows up to 1,500 lbs, great for small trailers or utility needs.
Cost Considerations
When choosing the best car for towing, cost isn’t just about the vehicle itself—it’s also about fuel economy and long-term maintenance.
- SUVs like the Dodge Durango and Chevy Tahoe: $40,000–$60,000+ range.
- Luxury SUVs (Range Rover, Audi Q7, Mercedes GLS): $65,000–$90,000+.
- Compact SUVs (Subaru Ascent, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5): $30,000–$40,000.
Remember: vehicles with higher towing capacity often come with higher purchase and fuel costs.
USA-Trusted Cars for Towing
Across the USA, drivers consistently trust brands like Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Jeep, and Subaru for their towing needs. These brands are known for:
- Proven track records
- Nationwide dealer support
- Long-term durability
- Strong resale value
Final Thoughts
The best car for towing depends on your lifestyle, budget, and towing needs:
- For heavy-duty towing (boats, RVs, trailers) → Dodge Durango, Chevy Tahoe, Toyota Land Cruiser.
- For balanced family and towing needs → Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Subaru Ascent.
- For luxury towing → Range Rover Sport, Audi Q7, Mercedes GLS.
- For light-duty towing → Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, VW Golf Alltrack.
No matter what you’re hauling, choosing the right vehicle ensures safety, power, and peace of mind on every journey.
Best Cars for Towing – Top Vehicles for Power, Safety & Reliability