When it comes to towing, not every SUV is built the same.
A lot of models out there might look tough, but hook up a trailer or a boat and you will find out real quick whether they are up for the job. If you are planning on towing campers, boats, horse trailers, work trailers, or anything else heavy, you need an SUV that can pull — safely, comfortably, and confidently.
The good news?
2025 and 2026 are bringing some of the strongest, smartest, and most efficient towing SUVs we have ever seen — across gas, diesel, hybrid, and now even electric.
Here’s your complete breakdown of the best SUVs for towing coming in 2025 and 2026 — what they can really handle, and why they might be the smartest haulers on the road.
Why SUV Towing Is Getting Better in 2025 and 2026
- Stronger platforms and frames are boosting tow ratings across midsize and full-size segments.
- Hybrid and electric torque is finally being engineered for serious towing, not just MPG savings.
- Advanced trailer assist features are making it easier to back up, hitch up, and control loads safely.
- Payload and cooling improvements are helping SUVs tow without overheating or sagging under load.
It is not just about big V8s anymore. Today, the best towing SUVs combine smart engineering with real-world usability.
Best Gas and Diesel SUVs for Towing in 2025 and 2026
1. 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe
Powertrain: 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, 3.0L Duramax Diesel
Max Towing Capacity: Up to 8,400 pounds
Release: Mid 2025
The refreshed Tahoe is sticking with tried-and-true V8 power, plus the efficient diesel option.
New tech upgrades include better trailer braking integration, available air suspension for load leveling, and a refreshed interior that is much more comfortable for long hauls.
Why it is a top pick:
Rock-solid towing capacity with multiple engine choices and real full-size SUV comfort.
Best for:
Families towing boats, large campers, or work trailers.
2. 2025 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL
Powertrain: 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, 3.0L Duramax Diesel
Max Towing Capacity: Up to 8,400 pounds
Release: Mid 2025
The Yukon twins will get the same updates as the Tahoe but with a more luxurious focus — Denali trims especially offer top-end comfort for serious towing trips.
Expect Super Cruise hands-free towing capabilities on higher trims, giving you an easier time on long highway hauls.
Why it is a top pick:
Adds luxury and technology without sacrificing muscle.
Best for:
Buyers who want premium towing without jumping to Cadillac.
3. 2025 Toyota Sequoia
Powertrain: Twin-turbo 3.4L V6 Hybrid
Max Towing Capacity: 9,520 pounds
Release: Already available; minor updates for 2025
Toyota’s full-size SUV uses a hybrid powertrain to deliver massive torque without guzzling gas like an old V8.
The Sequoia is built on the same tough platform as the Tundra pickup, meaning it is built to haul — and the hybrid torque delivery makes towing feel smooth and confident.
Why it is a top pick:
Best hybrid towing SUV on the market.
Best for:
Buyers who want strong towing but better daily fuel economy too.
4. 2025 Jeep Wagoneer L
Powertrain: Twin-turbo 3.0L I6 Hurricane
Max Towing Capacity: Up to 10,000 pounds
Release: Already available; tech updates for 2025
The long-wheelbase Wagoneer L is a towing beast, built to match or beat most full-size pickups when properly equipped.
Jeep’s Hurricane engine delivers serious power and the longer frame provides great stability at speed with a loaded trailer.
Why it is a top pick:
Highest SUV tow rating without going to diesel.
Best for:
Serious towers who still want full luxury for passengers.
Best Hybrid SUVs for Towing in 2025 and 2026
5. 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX
Powertrain: 2.4L Turbo Hybrid
Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
Release: Early 2025
The Hybrid MAX version of the Grand Highlander offers 362 hp and strong low-end torque — making it one of the few hybrids that can actually tow a mid-size trailer or a couple of jet skis without breaking a sweat.
Why it is a top pick:
Best mix of MPG and decent towing in the midsize segment.
Best for:
Families who tow smaller loads but still want excellent gas mileage daily.
6. 2026 Honda Pilot Hybrid (Expected)
Powertrain: Two-motor hybrid
Max Towing Capacity: Estimated 5,000 pounds
Release: Mid 2026
The Pilot Hybrid will likely maintain similar towing capability to the gas model but add significant efficiency — expect mid-30s MPG and real-world towing strength for light trailers and weekend toys.
Why it is a top pick:
Efficiency and Honda reliability with decent pulling power.
Best for:
Families who tow boats, campers, or trailers occasionally.
Best Electric SUVs for Towing in 2025 and 2026
7. 2025 Rivian R1S (Updated)
Powertrain: Dual or Quad motor electric
Max Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
Range: 260–390 miles depending on battery
Release: Ongoing updates through 2025
The Rivian R1S remains the best all-electric SUV for towing heavy loads today.
It offers massive torque, adjustable suspension, off-road ability, and strong cooling systems to keep hauling even under heavy loads.
Why it is a top pick:
Off-road capable and heavy-duty EV towing in one stylish package.
Best for:
Adventure seekers who want to tow in silence.
8. 2026 Chevy Tahoe EV
Powertrain: Electric
Max Towing Capacity: Estimated 8,500 pounds
Range: Up to 400 miles (expected)
Release: Late 2026
The upcoming Tahoe EV will aim to match or exceed the towing capacities of gas models — using GM’s Ultium battery platform to deliver strong, instant torque.
Why it is a top pick:
True full-size SUV towing in an electric package.
Best for:
Buyers wanting real truck-like capability with zero emissions.
9. 2026 Kia EV9 (AWD Version)
Powertrain: Electric
Max Towing Capacity: 5,000 pounds
Range: 260–300 miles
Release: Early 2026
The EV9 is not a hardcore tow vehicle, but for families pulling smaller trailers or camper setups, it offers a great balance of space, comfort, and towing ability without gas bills.
Why it is a top pick:
Roomy three-row EV SUV with real-world practicality.
Best for:
Families moving into EVs but needing towing on weekends.
Quick Towing Comparison Table
| SUV | Powertrain | Max Towing | Range/MPG | Best For |
| Chevy Tahoe (2025) | Gas/Diesel | 8,400 lbs | 15–24 MPG | Big family towing |
| GMC Yukon (2025) | Gas/Diesel | 8,400 lbs | 15–24 MPG | Luxury towing |
| Toyota Sequoia (2025) | Hybrid | 9,520 lbs | 20–24 MPG | Hybrid heavy hauling |
| Jeep Wagoneer L | Gas | 10,000 lbs | 17–22 MPG | Maximum SUV towing |
| Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX | Hybrid | 5,000 lbs | 34–36 MPG | Efficient light towing |
| Rivian R1S | Electric | 7,700 lbs | 260–390 mi | EV adventure towing |
| Chevy Tahoe EV (2026) | Electric | 8,500 lbs | 400 mi (est) | Electric heavy hauling |
| Kia EV9 | Electric | 5,000 lbs | 260–300 mi | Family EV towing |
Final Thoughts: What SUV Should You Pick for Towing?
If towing is your top priority, you have better choices than ever — whether you want gas, diesel, hybrid, or electric.
- Need to tow big loads? Stick with Tahoe, Yukon, Wagoneer, or the upcoming Tahoe EV.
- Want better mileage with light towing? Look hard at the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX or Pilot Hybrid.
- Going full electric? Rivian R1S and Chevy Tahoe EV are your best bets.
The most important thing is not just the tow rating — it is how confidently and comfortably your SUV can tow day after day.
Stick with BidForAutos.com — where we give you the real details you need to drive smarter, tow better, and stay ahead of the road ahead.
