Top-Rated SUVs for Towing by Capacity
Posted on September 29, 2025
If you love outdoor adventures or need extra muscle for hauling, having an SUV with strong towing power can make all the difference.
Beyond raw power, today’s top-rated towing SUVs also offer smooth handling, advanced driver-assist features, and clever tech that can make tasks like hitching and backing up a whole lot easier.
For this list of the best rated SUVs for towing in Canada, we focused on overall towing capacity, using max payload as a tiebreaker when needed. But the best models go beyond just numbers; they pack in safety innovations, comfortable cabins, and plenty of convenience features to make your travels more enjoyable.
We’ll explore the top SUVs for towing based on their capacity, performance, and features. From rugged off-road champs to luxurious family haulers, these SUVs prove that you can tow big and still enjoy a smooth, confident ride.
Understanding Trailer Weight and Tow Capacity
When it comes to towing, you need to understand that tow capacity refers to the total weight your vehicle can safely pull, and that includes both the trailer and whatever is loaded onto it.
For example, if your SUV has a 2267-kg towing capacity and you’re hauling a 1451-kg car on a 453-kg trailer, you’re already close to the limit. Go beyond that limit, and you risk damaging your vehicle and creating an unsafe driving situation.
An overloaded SUV can strain the engine, overheat the transmission, overwhelm the brakes, and make it harder to control, increasing the chance of a serious accident.
Different drivetrains and equipment can also affect how much your SUV can tow. Rear-wheel drive models often have a higher towing capacity than all-wheel drive versions, and many manufacturers offer towing packages that boost performance.
These packages might include stronger transmissions, upgraded cooling systems, or reinforced suspension components, all designed to help your SUV handle heavier loads more safely and efficiently.
Best Subcompact SUVs for Towing
Some small SUVs are surprisingly capable when it comes to towing. While not every model is built for the job, the ones on this list are the top subcompact SUVs in Canada that can pull more than you might expect.
Jeep Compass
The 2025 Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that balances everyday practicality with capable towing and off-road fun. Its 2.0-L four-cylinder engine delivers 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, and the available 4x4 system makes it easier to tackle rough roads while towing.
On top of that, it comes with around 80 standard and available safety features, helping you tow with confidence.
- Towing Capacity: This can tow up to 907 kg, making it a solid choice for light trailers, small boats, or other recreational gear.
Subaru Crosstrek
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek is a versatile small SUV that combines off-road capability with everyday comfort. Its supportive interior and smooth handling make it ideal for road trips and outdoor adventures, while its compact size makes city driving and parking easier.
This adventure-ready SUV also comes with modern safety features and efficient performance, making it a practical choice for drivers who need both utility and comfort.
- Towing Capacity: This can tow up to 1,580 kg, giving it enough power to handle small trailers, campers, or boats for weekend getaways.
Best Compact SUVs for Towing
If you need extra room for passengers and gear, moving up to a compact SUV is a smart choice.
Here are some of the top compact SUVs for towing:
Toyota RAV4
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 is a versatile and stylish compact SUV that balances comfort, technology, and efficiency. Its user-friendly features, including advanced infotainment and rear-view cameras, make daily driving easy, while the hybrid model offers an eco-friendly option without sacrificing capability.
With its manageable size and smooth handling, the RAV4 is a great choice for those who need light towing for small trailers or weekend adventures.
- Towing Capacity: This can tow up to 680 kg, making it suitable for small trailers, bikes, or other light loads. It’s enough for weekend trips or light-duty hauling without compromising the SUV’s performance or comfort.
Ford Escape
The 2025 Ford Escape is a versatile compact SUV that balances everyday comfort with surprising towing capability. With its modern design, fuel-efficient engines, and available all-wheel drive, it’s a great option for drivers who want a practical SUV that can handle light to moderate towing tasks.
- Towing Capacity: Depending on the engine and configuration, the Escape can tow between 680 to 907 kg. Go for the bigger 2.0L EcoBoost engine paired with the Class II Trailer Tow Package, and towing capacity jumps to 1,587 kg.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback stands out as a versatile compact SUV, perfect for both daily drives and weekend adventures. Its rugged design, higher ground clearance, and full-time all-wheel drive make it a reliable choice for towing and exploring off the beaten path.
Advanced safety features like the Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist system add confidence, helping you stay aware of your surroundings even while hauling a trailer.
- Towing Capacity: This can tow up to 1,588 kg, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment for lighter towing needs.
Mazda CX-50
The Mazda CX-50 is a versatile compact SUV built for adventure. With excellent traction and control features, it handles both city streets and off-road trails with ease. Its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive system make it a reliable choice for drivers who want capability without sacrificing comfort or style.
- Towing Capacity: This can tow up to 1,588 kg, making it suitable for small boats, campers, or larger trailers. The Mi-Drive Towing Mode helps optimize performance, giving drivers confidence when hauling heavy loads.
Best Premium Midsize SUVs for Towing
Looking for luxury midsize SUVs with strong towing power? These models combine upscale comfort with engines built to haul heavy loads with ease.
Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is one of the best premium midsize SUVs for towing, combining strength, luxury, and off-road ability. It’s built to handle both heavy loads and rough terrain, making it a versatile choice for drivers who want capability without sacrificing comfort.
- Towing Capacity: This Defender tows up to 3499 kg in the 90 and 110 models, or 2999 kg in the 130. Engine choices range from a turbo 2.0L to a supercharged 5.0L V8 for strong all-around performance.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury midsize SUV that combines strong towing power with high-end comfort. It offers advanced tech, a refined interior, and plenty of space, making it a great choice for those who want both performance and premium features in a tow vehicle.
- Towing Capacity: This GLE tows up to 3499 kg with either the 2.0L turbo four-cylinder (255 hp) in the GLE 350 or the 3.0L turbo inline-six mild hybrid (362 hp) in the GLE 450. Both include 4MATIC all-wheel drive for added stability.
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a premium midsize SUV that blends luxury, performance, and strong towing capability. Known for its sporty handling and refined comfort, it’s a versatile choice for families who need both everyday practicality and serious pulling power.
With available options like air suspension and powerful engine choices, the X5 makes towing feel confident and smooth without sacrificing its upscale ride quality.
- Towing Capacity: The xDrive40i and V8-powered M60i can tow up to 3265 kg, while the plug-in hybrid xDrive50e manages about 2699 kg.
Lexus GX 460 / GX 550
The Lexus GX has long been known for its towing ability thanks to its rugged, truck-based chassis. The outgoing GX 460 featured a 4.6L V8, full-time 4WD, and adaptive suspension, making it capable of towing up to 2948 kg.
The redesigned 2024 GX 550 takes things further with a 3.4L twin-turbo V6, producing 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, and can tow up to 3628 kg, with some models handling over 4082 kg in real-world tests.
With luxury, three-row seating, and improved suspension, the GX 550 blends comfort with serious towing power.
Towing Capacity
- 2023 GX 460: 2948 kg
- 2024 GX 550: up to 3628 kg (some tested over 4082 kg)
This makes the Lexus GX 460/550 one of the top premium midsize SUVs in Canada for towing.
Best Mainstream Midsize SUVs for Towing
You don’t need a luxury SUV to tow big. These midsize models from mainstream brands offer strong towing capacity, roomy interiors, and a more budget-friendly price.
Dodge Durango
This 2025 Dodge Durango is a standout in the midsize SUV segment, offering a powerful V8 engine and a roomy, tech-filled interior.
It’s perfect for families or anyone who needs serious towing ability without sacrificing comfort and modern features. With multiple trims to choose from, you can find a model that fits your style and driving needs.
- Towing Capacity: The Durango delivers best-in-class towing with a maximum capacity of 3,946 kg.
Jeep Grand Cherokee (and Grand Cherokee L)
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L are rugged, versatile SUVs that combine strong towing capabilities with off-road-ready features.
With a comfortable interior, modern tech, and Jeep’s signature 4x4 systems, these SUVs are designed to handle heavy loads while keeping passengers comfortable on every journey.
- Towing Capacity: The Jeep Grand Cherokee can tow up to 2,812 kg with its 3.6-L V6 engine, while the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension boosts maneuverability and ground clearance for easier towing.
Nissan Pathfinder
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is a powerful and versatile midsize SUV that makes towing feel effortless. Equipped with a 3.5-L V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth performance both on and off the road.
Its advanced 4x4 drivetrain and smart towing technology, including a helpful rear-towing package, make it a reliable choice for hauling trailers, boats, or campers.
- Towing Capacity: The Nissan Pathfinder can tow up to 2,721 kg, giving it the strength to handle most recreational and work-related towing needs with confidence.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a well-rounded midsize SUV that balances family-friendly features with solid towing capability. With three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space, it’s perfect for road trips, weekend adventures, or hauling a small boat or camper.
- Towing Capacity: The Explorer can tow 2404–2540 kg depending on the trim. The base 2.3L EcoBoost hits 2404 kg, the 3.0L V6 ST or Platinum trims reach 2540 kg, and the hybrid can tow up to 2267 kg.
Best Full-Size SUVs for Towing
The largest SUVs combine serious towing power with comfort and style. If you need space and performance, these are the top full-size options to consider.
Toyota Sequoia
The 2025 Toyota Sequoia is a standout full-size SUV that balances power, comfort, and modern tech. With three rows of seating and a spacious interior, it’s perfect for long family trips or weekend adventures.
Its hybrid i-FORCE MAX powertrain provides both impressive performance and efficiency, making it a solid choice for those who need serious towing capability without sacrificing luxury.
- Towing Capacity: The Sequoia can tow up to 4,082 kg, with tech features and strong traction that make towing safer and easier.
Nissan Armada
The 2025 Nissan Armada is a powerful full-size SUV that combines robust performance with modern technology, making it a top choice for drivers who need serious towing capability.
With a roomy interior, advanced safety features, and a strong V8 engine, it’s built to handle both daily driving and heavy-duty hauling with confidence.
- Towing Capacity: The Armada can tow up to 3,855 kg, thanks to its 425-horsepower engine and 516 lb-ft of torque.
Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that combines rugged capability with spacious comfort, making it a top choice for towing enthusiasts. With a bold design, advanced technology, and a powerful engine, the Tahoe is built to handle heavy loads while keeping passengers comfortable on long trips.
- Towing Capacity: This can tow up to 3,810 kg. Its 6.2-L V8 engine with 10-speed automatic transmission delivers 433 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque, while heavy-duty brakes and reinforced suspension keep towing stable and controlled.
Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV that combines strong towing capabilities with spacious, family-friendly comfort. With three rows of seating for up to eight passengers and a refined yet powerful engine, it’s a versatile choice for those who need both daily usability and serious hauling power.
- Towing Capacity: With its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the Ford Expedition can tow up to 4173 kg (4082 kg for the Expedition Max).
Best Luxury SUVs for Towing
Luxury, powerful performance, and impressive towing make these the top luxury SUVs in Canada for 2025. Any of them could deliver the perfect blend of comfort and capability on your next adventure.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
The 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a full-size luxury SUV that combines premium comfort with impressive towing power. With a robust engine, advanced technology, and a suite of safety features, it’s designed to make towing large loads feel effortless while keeping passengers comfortable on long journeys.
- Towing Capacity: The Jeep Grand Wagoneer can tow up to 4,445 kg with its 420-horsepower engine and 468 lb/ft of torque.
GMC Hummer EV SUV
The 2025 GMC Hummer EV SUV turns heads not just for its bold design but also for its impressive electric performance. With up to 830 horsepower and long-range capability, this luxury SUV proves that EVs can be powerful towing machines.
While it comes with a higher price tag, the Hummer EV SUV combines advanced tech, strong towing capability, and a futuristic driving experience.
- Towing Capacity: The Hummer EV SUV can tow up to 3,401 kg. Its electric drivetrain provides instant torque for easier towing, and driver-assist features make handling heavy loads simpler.
Weight Limits to Consider When Towing
When it comes to towing, it’s not just the trailer’s weight that matters; you also need to consider several key weight limits to keep your drive safe and your vehicle protected. Understanding these limits ensures you don’t overload your SUV or create unsafe driving conditions.
Gross Combined Weight Rating
The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total maximum weight your vehicle can handle, including the weight of the SUV, passengers, cargo, and trailer.
If you plan to tow with a fully loaded cabin and luggage, check that the combined weight doesn’t exceed the GCWR. This is especially important for smaller SUVs, whose lighter frames may struggle under heavy loads.
Gross Axle Weight Rating
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum weight each axle can safely carry. Properly distributing the trailer’s weight is essential; if too much weight sits near the front of the trailer, it can overload the vehicle’s axles even if you’re within the overall towing capacity.
Balanced loading helps protect your axles and ensures safer handling.
Tongue Weight
Tongue weight is the downward force exerted at the hitch between the trailer and the SUV. Keeping this weight within limits prevents too much pressure on the front of the trailer and the vehicle’s hitch, helping maintain stability while driving. Proper tongue weight distribution is key to a smooth and safe towing experience.
Find Your Perfect Towing SUV and Hit the Road Strong
Towing doesn’t have to be complicated when you choose the right SUV. From subcompact models to luxury powerhouses, today’s top-rated SUVs offer a mix of towing capacity, comfort, and advanced features to make every haul safer and easier.
If you’re ready to find an SUV that fits your towing needs, check out CarHub North York Chrysler’s wide selection. With options for every lifestyle and budget, you’re sure to find the perfect vehicle to tackle your next adventure with confidence.