Which midsize SUV has the greatest towing capacity?

The Dodge Durango, when properly equipped, currently offers the greatest towing capacity among midsize SUVs in the U.S., rated up to 8,700 pounds. That figure surpasses rival midsize SUVs, including strong performers from Land Rover and luxury German brands. Below, we explain how the Durango achieves that number, how competitors compare, and what factors most affect real-world towing.

The current towing champion

Dodge’s Durango remains the midsize SUV towing benchmark at up to 8,700 pounds, as rated by the manufacturer for 2024–2025 model years when configured with the appropriate V8 powertrain and factory towing equipment. Key enablers include robust powertrains, a factory Class IV hitch, upgraded cooling, and the right axle ratio. Lower trims and V6 models tow less, but select V8 versions—such as performance-oriented variants and tow-focused packages—unlock the full 8,700-pound rating. Always confirm the exact rating on the specific trim, drivetrain, and tow package in the owner’s manual and window sticker.

How other midsize SUVs compare

Several other midsize SUVs are formidable tow vehicles, even if they don’t quite match the Durango’s ceiling. The models below are among the top-rated in the segment, with maximums that depend on engine choice, driveline, and whether the vehicle has the required factory towing package.

• Land Rover Discovery: up to about 8,200 lb (approx. 3,720 kg)
• Land Rover Defender 110/130: up to about 8,200 lb (approx. 3,720 kg)
• Mercedes-Benz GLE: up to 7,700 lb (with factory towing package)
• Audi Q7: up to 7,700 lb (with factory towing package)
• Porsche Cayenne: up to 7,716 lb
• Range Rover Sport: up to 7,716 lb
• BMW X5: up to 7,200 lb
• Lexus GX 550: up to 8,000 lb
• Jeep Grand Cherokee (current V6 models): up to 6,200 lb; earlier V8 versions were higher
• Nissan Pathfinder / Infiniti QX60: up to 6,000 lb (with tow package)
• Ford Explorer: up to 5,600 lb (with tow package)
• Volkswagen Atlas, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Mazda CX-90, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Highlander/Grand Highlander, Chevy Traverse/GMC Acadia: typically up to 5,000 lb (when properly equipped)

In short, the Durango leads with 8,700 pounds, while Land Rover’s Discovery and Defender sit just behind at about 8,200 pounds. A cluster of luxury midsize crossovers—GLE, Q7, Cayenne, Range Rover Sport—occupy the 7,700-pound tier, with BMW’s X5 at 7,200 pounds and a wide field of mainstream three-row crossovers clustered at 5,000–6,000 pounds.

What “midsize” means—and why towing ratings vary

“Midsize SUV” generally covers two-row and three-row utilities that slot between compact crossovers and full-size SUVs, including unibody crossovers and some body-on-frame off-roaders. Towing ratings can differ dramatically within a single model line based on equipment. The factors below most influence a vehicle’s tow ceiling.

• Powertrain and cooling: Higher-output engines and heavy-duty cooling raise tow ratings.
• Axle ratio and drivetrain: Specific axle ratios and 4×2 vs. 4×4 selections can change ratings.
• Tow package content: Factory Class III/IV hitch, wiring, transmission/oil coolers, and brake-controller readiness are often required for max ratings.
• Payload and tongue weight: Tongue weight (often 10–15% of trailer weight) counts against payload; the lowest-rated component governs.
• Hitch and trailer type: Weight-distributing hitches and trailer brakes can be required above certain thresholds.
• Regulatory and testing differences: Ratings are manufacturer-set; methodologies and equipment assumptions vary by brand and market.

Because the rating depends on the exact build, the definitive source is the vehicle’s door-jamb sticker and owner’s manual, plus the tow label or build sheet for that VIN.

Tips to safely reach a vehicle’s maximum tow rating

Max tow numbers are achievable only with the right hardware and setup. These best practices help align real-world capability with the published rating.

• Order the factory tow package for the intended model; retrofits may not replicate cooling or software changes.
• Use a properly rated hitch (often Class IV) and, when specified, a weight-distributing setup.
• Install or enable an electronic trailer brake controller for trailers over 2,000–3,000 lb (per local law and manufacturer guidance).
• Verify payload and tongue weight with scales; don’t exceed GVWR or GCWR.
• Balance cargo, secure loads, and maintain correct tire pressures (including the trailer).
• Practice conservative speeds and longer following distances; consider tow/haul modes and engine braking on grades.

Following these steps keeps the combination stable, protects components, and ensures compliance with the conditions tied to the vehicle’s rating.

Summary

The Dodge Durango sits at the top of the midsize SUV segment for towing with a manufacturer-rated maximum of 8,700 pounds when properly equipped. Land Rover’s Discovery and Defender follow closely at about 8,200 pounds, while several luxury models cluster around 7,700 pounds. For any model, the precise tow ceiling depends on engine, axle ratio, and the presence of a factory towing package—so verify the exact configuration before you hitch up.

What mid-size SUV can tow the most weight?

Midsize SUVs with Best Towing Capacity

• 2026 Dodge Durango. Towing Capacity: Up to 8,700 lbs.
• 2025 Land Rover Discovery. Towing Capacity: Up to 8,200 lbs.
• 2025 Land Rover Defender. Towing Capacity: Up to 8,200 lbs.
• 2026 Porsche Cayenne. Towing Capacity: Up to 7,716 lbs.
• 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport.

What is the 80/20 rule for towing?

The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don’t pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. That leaves 20% of your towing capacity left for other cargo like passengers, baggage, etc.

What is the best medium SUV for towing?

Mid-size SUV Category
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the best medium SUV for towing in melbourne. It has a 2,813kg towing capacity. Its air suspension system ensures a smooth ride, even when loaded.

What SUV is best for pulling a trailer?

The best SUV for pulling a trailer depends on the trailer’s weight, but top choices for heavy-duty towing include the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer, 2025 Ford Expedition, and 2025 Toyota Sequoia, all offering towing capacities of over 9,000 pounds. For those needing strong midsize options, the 2025 Dodge Durango can tow up to 8,700 pounds, while the Toyota 4Runner is a reliable choice for lighter, off-road campers. Key features to look for include a powerful engine, proper trailering packages with hitches and controllers, and a stable platform like a truck-based frame for heavy loads.
 
This video reviews the best SUVs for towing a travel trailer: 59scargenixYouTube · Oct 5, 2022
Top Picks for Heavy-Duty Towing
These large, full-size SUVs offer the highest towing capacities: 

• 2025 Jeep Wagoneer: Opens in new tabCapable of towing up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. 
• 2025 Ford Expedition: Opens in new tabRivals the capacity of full-size trucks, with a powerful twin-turbo V-6 and independent rear suspension for smooth handling. 
• 2025 Toyota Sequoia: Opens in new tabOffers impressive towing capacity, along with features like multi-mode 4WD and rear air suspension. 
• 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon: Opens in new tabThese closely related SUVs provide robust towing capabilities, often reaching around 8,400 pounds. 

Excellent Midsize Options
If your trailer is lighter or you prefer a more compact vehicle, these are great choices: 

• 2025 Dodge Durango: Opens in new tabA strong contender in the midsize class, able to tow up to 8,700 pounds with the available HEMI V8. 
• Toyota 4Runner: Opens in new tabA reliable, truck-based SUV excellent for towing off-road campers, though its maximum capacity is lower, around 5,000 pounds. 
• Jeep Grand Cherokee: Opens in new tabA good choice for mid-sized campers, offering up to 7,200 pounds of towing capacity and a luxurious interior. 

Key Features to Look For

• Towing Capacity: Always check the specific model’s towing capacity and compare it to your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). 
• Engine Power: Look for powerful engines, like the V8s or turbocharged V-6s found in many of these SUVs, to handle the weight. 
• Trailer Towing Package: This essential package often includes a receiver hitch, a heavy-duty engine cooling system, a wiring harness, and an integrated trailer brake controller. 
• Platform: Truck-based, body-on-frame SUVs like the Sequoia and Tahoe provide greater stability for heavy trailers than crossover SUVs. 
• Drivetrain: 2WD models often have slightly higher towing capacities, but 4WD can offer better traction when launching a boat or for off-road camping.