This SUV towing capacity chart lists published maximum ratings from about 3,500 lb for compact and midsize SUVs up to 10,000 lb for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Your usable limit is often lower once passengers, cargo, tongue weight and required equipment are counted.
Figures are the highest published ratings for recent US-market models, based on manufacturer and press listings, not hands-on testing. Canadian ratings can differ, so confirm with your owner’s manual.
Quick answer
- Small and midsize SUVs: roughly 3,500 to 6,200 lb.
- Full-size SUVs: roughly 8,200 to 10,000 lb.
- Always use: the rating for your exact engine, drivetrain and tow package.
SUV towing capacity chart
| SUV | Published maximum tow rating | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester Wilderness | Up to 3,500 lb | Wilderness trim |
| Subaru Outback Wilderness | 3,500 lb | Turbo boxer engine |
| Mazda CX-90 | 3,500 to 5,000 lb | Higher gas trims reach the top figure |
| Hyundai Palisade / Kia Telluride | 5,000 lb | Shared maximum |
| Toyota 4Runner | 6,000 lb | Maximum for the current generation |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Up to 6,200 lb | Depends on engine and equipment |
| Land Rover Defender | Up to 8,200 lb | Specific trims and sizes |
| Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon | Up to 8,400 lb | Needs trailering equipment |
| Nissan Armada | Up to 8,500 lb | Configuration dependent |
| Lexus GX | Up to 9,096 lb | Varies by grade |
| Toyota Sequoia | Up to 9,520 lb | Varies by grade |
| Ford Expedition | Up to 9,600 lb | Specified 4×4 configurations |
| Jeep Grand Wagoneer | Up to 10,000 lb | Proper equipment required |
Ratings come from press roundups and manufacturer information and can change by model year. For luxury and performance examples, see the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 (7,700 lb).
How to read an SUV tow rating
- Tow rating: the maximum trailer weight, shown as “up to” because it depends on equipment.
- Payload: people, cargo, hitch hardware and tongue weight all count against it, and it often limits towing before the tow rating does.
- Tongue weight: typically 10 to 15 percent of the trailer weight for conventional trailers.
- Tow package: maximum ratings usually require a specific hitch, cooling and wiring.
What affects your SUV’s tow rating
- Engine, drivetrain and axle ratio.
- Trim and hybrid versus gas powertrain, which can lower the limit.
- Brakes, hitch class and cooling equipment.
- Trailer brakes and a brake controller, where required.
Related towing guides
See our Toyota 4Runner off-road specs and Subaru Outback Wilderness specs for model-level detail.
Before you tow
- Check the owner’s manual and the door-jamb label for your exact limits.
- Weigh your loaded trailer, not just its dry weight.
- Price and equipment vary by dealer, so check the current listing for tow-package availability.
Frequently asked questions
Which SUV has the highest towing capacity?
Among the models in this chart, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is published at up to 10,000 lb, followed by the Ford Expedition at up to 9,600 lb.
How much can a midsize SUV tow?
Many midsize SUVs are rated between about 3,500 and 6,000 lb, depending on engine and equipment. Examples here include the Toyota 4Runner at 6,000 lb and the Jeep Grand Cherokee at up to 6,200 lb.
Is towing capacity the same as payload?
No. Towing capacity is the trailer weight the SUV can pull. Payload is what the SUV can carry, including passengers, cargo and the trailer’s tongue weight.
Do tow ratings depend on the tow package?
Yes. Maximum ratings usually require a specific engine, drivetrain, hitch and trailering equipment, so use the rating for your exact vehicle.
How much tongue weight should a trailer have?
A common guideline is about 10 to 15 percent of the trailer weight for conventional trailers. Check your owner’s manual for the vehicle’s maximum tongue weight.
Are Canadian tow ratings the same as US ratings?
They can differ by trim, engine or equipment. Check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s Canadian specifications for your vehicle.
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