Best SUVs for Towing of 2022

SUVs For All Your Hauling Needs

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade is not only packed with innovative technologies but, as with the 2021 version, lugs well over 8,000 pounds. Other alternatives such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class offer seating for seven and manage to pull in the region of 7,500 lbs. All of these competitors have a BuzzScore of at least nine out of ten.

Naturally, big sport-utilities with brawny power plants are best. However, at around $50k, the V8-powered Dodge Durango is rated at an excellent 7,400 lbs. This is a good figure for the money asked of it, even if the Durango is average in other aspects. The Ford Expedition might not be the ultimate cargo-toting king of all time, but with a 9,300 lbs maximum, it’s superior to the vast majority of SUVs.

Finding The Best Towing Capacity SUV

Searching for the ideal trailering machine doesn’t have to be an arduous task. It helps to be realistic about what your needs are. Spending over $70,000 isn’t necessary if you’re never carting around a substantial rig. If that is your plan, though, you require a machine that’ll cope. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Towing: Obviously, the greatest capability matters first and foremost. If your bass boat and trailer weighs 3,000 lbs, something that lugs a maximum of exactly 3,000 lbs may struggle with a full family on board, too.
• Drivetrain: Although 4x4s are useful for off-road or slippery conditions, bulkier componentry reduces their ability to move weighty things behind them.
  Technology: New vehicles are often equipped with additional cameras and blind-spot monitoring systems to make dragging something a less stressful affair. Available trailering packages are worth looking out for, too.
• Diesel vs gasoline: Turbodiesels have much higher torque outputs. Even if ratings are similar, the diesel’s robust low-down torque enables less strained progress.
• Gas mileage: Just because it can pull a mammoth rig doesn’t mean it’s a great bet. It could be excessively greedy at the pumps, however, no doubt a frustration when going long distance.

Specifications and Comparisons

Below are five of the best SUVs for towing. The same model’s numbers can differ markedly depending on trim and powertrain, but this serves as a good barometer of what to expect:

• Dodge Durango - 7,400 lbs
• Ford Expedition - 9,300 lbs
• Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class - 7,700 lbs
• BMW X7 - 7,500 lbs
• Lincoln Navigator - 8,700 lbs

Remember that paying more won’t automatically get you the highest towing capacity SUV in the relevant segment, so be sure to do your homework across the board.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Those with the highest scores are often portlier than more compact derivatives, which comes with a couple of downsides. They aren’t as nimble to drive, for instance. Containing their proportions in the city translates to more caution as you squeeze into and out of tight spots. The economy may also suffer with bigger engines and more weight to cart around. However, full-size SUVs also have a lot more interior volume.

Pros

• Ability to heave heavier rigs
• Latest driver aids help to improve safety
• Better acceleration, with or without a boat or trailer
• SUVs have tons of cabin space

Cons

• More unwieldy to maneuver
• Fuel efficiency tends to take a dive
• High cost to buy
• A truck remains preferable for transporting hefty loads

FAQs For The Best Large SUVs

We provide in-depth reviews of every SUV on the market, including 2019 variants and older. Under the performance and powertrain categories, you’ll learn more about the capabilities of each product. Whether you would like something for camper expeditions or transporting your golf cart, our evaluations assist you in making the right decision for your budget.