10 Best SUVs for Towing

Imagine effortlessly towing your boat to serene lakes or conquering off-road terrain. Well, you need an SUV with exceptional towing capacities to embark on such adventures.

In this blog, we'll look at SUVs with outstanding towing capabilities, exploring their cutting-edge features, towing innovations, and the thrilling experiences they offer. 

 

Here are the ten best SUVs for towing in Canada:

 

Dodge Durango

The Dodge Durango offers a variety of powertrain options, each with its own towing capacity. Two configurations stand out for their impressive towing capabilities, both capable of pulling up to 8,700 lbs.

First up is the Durango equipped with a robust 6.4-liter V8 engine found in the SRT 392 trim. This powerhouse generates a formidable 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, making it a top choice for towing enthusiasts.

The second option is no slouch either, featuring a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. When equipped with a towing package, this configuration also reaches the 8,700 lbs towing capacity threshold.

For those looking for a slightly lower towing capacity without sacrificing utility, there's the 3.6-liter V6 engine variant. This option offers up to 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, allowing you to tow up to 6,200 lbs comfortably.

The Dodge Durango doesn't just excel in power and towing capabilities; it's also a spacious SUV with seating for up to seven people across its three rows of seats.

 

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee lineup includes three primary models: the standard Grand Cherokee, the larger Grand Cherokee L, and the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe.

Both the base Grand Cherokee and the Grand Cherokee L are equipped with a standard 293-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine, enabling them to tow up to 6,200 pounds. For those seeking even greater towing capacity, the Grand Cherokee L offers an optional 357-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 engine, elevating the towing capacity to an impressive 7,200 pounds. The Grand Cherokee 4xe, a plug-in hybrid variant, features a total system output of 375 horsepower and a respectable towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

In summary, the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup provides a range of options to suit your towing needs, whether you opt for the standard V6, the powerful V8, or the eco-friendly 4xe hybrid model. With its combination of luxurious features, legendary off-road prowess, and substantial towing capabilities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the best SUVs for towing.

 

Jeep Wagoneer

Jeep Wagoneer and its opulent counterpart, the Grand Wagoneer, have a remarkable towing capacity, which soars to an impressive 10,000 pounds.

The peak towing performance is achieved when these Wagoneer models are equipped with either the 5.7-liter V8, churning out 392 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque, or the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, boasting 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque.

In addition to these powerhouses, there are two other engine options: a 6.4-liter V8 generating 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 9,850 lbs, or a high-performance version of the twin-turbo six, delivering a mighty 510 horsepower and towing up to 9,800 lbs. 

In summary, Jeep's 2023 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer not only live up to the brand's promise of luxury and ruggedness but also excel in towing capabilities, making them formidable options for those seeking a blend of power and sophistication on the road.

 

Ford Explorer

The 2023 Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, each with its own towing capacity to suit various needs. Starting with the base 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, this Explorer can tow up to 3,000 pounds, making it ideal for hauling smaller loads such as a popup camper, a jet ski trailer, or a small fishing boat.

For those seeking to tow larger loads, particularly sub-7.6-meter-long campers or moving trailers, the addition of the Class IV Trailer Tow Package increases the maximum towing capacity to a substantial range of 5,300 to 5,600 pounds. 

Additionally, the Explorer is offered in a hybrid variant, featuring a 3.3-liter V6 engine that delivers 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs.

 

Land Rover Defender

The Defender embodies the classic Land Rover experience with its rugged design and remarkable off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for both trail adventures and city drives. The Defender models equipped with six-cylinder engines can tow up to 8,200 pounds, while those with four-cylinder and V8 engines can manage 7,716 pounds.

For those in need of three rows of seating, the upcoming Defender 130 can tow up to 6,600 pounds (3,000 kg) of capacity. Meanwhile, the Land Rover Discovery matches the peak towing capacity of the Defender 110.

In essence, the Land Rover Defender not only redefines outdoor adventuring but also offers exceptional towing capabilities, making it a formidable choice for off-grid journeys that demand both off-road prowess and towing power.

In summary, the Defender excels in multiple categories, serving as an off-roader, a V8 performance SUV, a family-friendly three-row vehicle, and a capable luxury machine, all while maintaining its towing capabilities.

 

Read: 7 Best Plug-in Hybrid SUVs in Canada

 

Toyota Sequoia

In 2023, the Toyota Sequoia underwent a comprehensive redesign, drawing inspiration from the hybrid version of the Tundra pickup. This overhaul introduced a rugged and contemporary aesthetic paired with an innovative hybrid powertrain.

Under the hood, the Sequoia boasts a potent twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 437 horsepower and an impressive 583 lb-ft of torque. This robust power plant, combined with an electric motor/generator and a ten-speed automatic transmission, sets the stage for exceptional performance.

All Sequoia models feature three rows of seating and come equipped with standard part-time four-wheel drive. Depending on the specific trim level and drivetrain configuration, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia can tow an impressive 8,980 to 9,520 pounds. It's a testament to the Sequoia's capability and versatility, making it a compelling choice for those with towing needs.

 

Toyota 4Runner

This SUV is your ideal companion for conquering rugged terrain and transporting all your gear, ensuring you can venture wherever the road takes you. 

For a midsize SUV, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner's towing capacity is impressive, allowing you to haul up to 5,000 lbs of adventure gear when needed. Its 4.0-Liter V-6 engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, delivers a robust performance with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the 4Runner offers CRAWL technology for conquering challenging terrains and hills.

Depending on your selected model, you can enjoy Rear-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive capabilities with the 4Runner. Additionally, it provides a maximum payload capacity of 1,700 pounds, granting you the freedom to transport people and cargo effortlessly and stylishly.

 

Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevy Tahoe, relies on its robust V8 engine and rugged chassis to effortlessly handle various towing needs. In the case of the 2023 Tahoe, it boasts a maximum trailering capacity of 8,400 pounds. This means it can confidently tow items like an 11-meter tow-behind camper, a moving trailer of the same length, a trailer loaded with dirt bikes, or even another vehicle.

The Chevy Tahoe received a redesign in 2021, bringing essential enhancements. These include a four-wheel independent suspension with optional active damping and more spacious third-row seating. Achieving the maximum towing capacity for this SUV requires opting for the smaller 5.3-liter V8 engine and adding the Max Trailering Package, available with all versions. This package incorporates a two-speed transfer case for 4WD-equipped models, an enhanced cooling radiator, rear-camera hitch guidance, a trailer brake controller, and a smart trailer integration indicator. Higher trim levels also receive extended blind zone monitors, with the option of a transparent trailer camera to aid in reversing.

 

Nissan Armada

The Nissan Armada relies on a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive.

It comes standard with a maximum tow rating of 8,500 pounds in Canada, along with a comprehensive package including 4WD with a two-speed transfer case and auto-leveling rear suspension.

If you're in the market for a spacious SUV with impressive towing capabilities, the Nissan Armada is a great choice. However, if you prefer a touch of luxury in your towing experience, the Infiniti QX80 offers a high-end alternative with similar capabilities.

 

Lincoln Navigator

When it comes to luxury SUVs that excel in both power and towing capabilities, the Lincoln Navigator stands out. You not only get the refinement and comfort of a luxury SUV but also the rugged towing capabilities you might expect from a heavy-duty truck.

In particular, the 2022 Navigator boasts an impressive towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. Whether you're planning a family vacation or need to transport heavy cargo, the Navigator's towing prowess ensures you can do so with ease and peace of mind, all while enjoying the luxury and comfort it offers.

In conclusion, we've highlighted a range of SUVs in Canada, each with its unique towing capabilities. From powerful V8 engines to versatile hybrid models, there's an SUV to suit your needs. Whether you prioritize off-road adventures or luxury comfort, these SUVs provide the towing capacity required for your journeys.