Which SUVs Can Tow 6,000 Pounds or More?

Plenty of SUVs can tow 6,000 pounds or more, led by full-size body-on-frame models like the Ford Expedition (up to 9,300 lb), Toyota Sequoia (up to 9,520 lb), and Jeep Wagoneer (up to 10,000 lb), along with capable midsize/off-roaders (Lexus GX, Land Cruiser, Grand Cherokee, Durango), luxury crossovers (BMW X5/X7, Mercedes GLE/GLS, Audi Q7/Q8, Porsche Cayenne), and a few EVs (Rivian R1S). Exact ratings depend on engine, drivetrain, tow package, and trim, so always verify the figure for the specific vehicle you’re considering.

Full-size, body-on-frame SUVs (the highest tow ratings)

These are traditional truck-based SUVs that generally deliver the strongest tow capacities, ample wheelbase for stability, and robust cooling and gearing. They are typically the best choice if you’re regularly towing heavy boats, campers, or car haulers.

• Ford Expedition: up to 9,300 lb (RWD with Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow)
• Lincoln Navigator: up to 8,700 lb (when properly equipped)
• Toyota Sequoia: up to 9,520 lb (trim- and drivetrain-dependent)
• Chevrolet Tahoe: up to 8,400 lb; Suburban: up to 8,300 lb (Max Trailering Package)
• GMC Yukon: up to 8,400 lb; Yukon XL: up to 8,300 lb (Max Trailering)
• Cadillac Escalade/ESV: up to about 8,200 lb
• Nissan Armada: up to 8,500 lb
• Infiniti QX80: up to 8,500 lb
• Jeep Wagoneer: up to 10,000 lb; Grand Wagoneer: up to about 9,850 lb
• Lexus LX 600: up to 8,000 lb
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G 550): around 7,000 lb

If you need maximum capacity plus stability and cooling margin, this class is where you’ll find it. Note that the top ratings usually require a factory tow package, specific axle ratios, and 4×2 drivetrains.

Midsize and off-road SUVs that clear 6,000 lb

Several midsize and adventure-focused SUVs also exceed 6,000 pounds, pairing credible towing with off-road hardware or smaller footprints that are easier to park than full-size rigs.

• Lexus GX 550: up to about 9,063 lb (varies by trim/equipment)
• Toyota Land Cruiser (250-series, 2024+ U.S.): up to 6,000 lb
• Jeep Grand Cherokee: up to 6,200 lb with V6; 4xe plug-in hybrid up to 6,000 lb
• Jeep Grand Cherokee L (three-row): up to 6,200 lb with V6
• Dodge Durango: 6,200 lb with V6; up to 8,700 lb with V8/SRT
• Land Rover Defender 90/110/130: up to 8,201 lb (properly equipped)
• Land Rover Discovery: up to about 8,200 lb

These models can be strong alternatives if you want real off-road ability or a slightly smaller package while still clearing the 6,000-pound threshold.

Luxury crossovers with strong tow ratings

Modern unibody crossovers can tow surprisingly well when equipped with the right packages. Many high-end models offer 6,000–7,700-pound ratings, refined ride quality, and advanced driver assistance helpful for towing.

• BMW X5: up to 7,200 lb (factory hitch/package required)
• BMW X7: up to 7,500 lb
• Mercedes-Benz GLE: up to 7,700 lb (with towing package)
• Mercedes-Benz GLS: up to 7,700 lb
• Audi Q7/SQ7: up to 7,700 lb
• Audi Q8/SQ8: up to 7,700 lb
• Porsche Cayenne: up to 7,700 lb
• Bentley Bentayga: up to about 7,716 lb
• Range Rover and Range Rover Sport: up to about 7,716 lb (engine/package dependent)
• Genesis GV80: up to 6,000 lb
• Infiniti QX60: up to 6,000 lb (with tow package)
• Nissan Pathfinder: up to 6,000 lb (with tow package)

If you value on-road refinement and luxury but still need to tow a 6,000-pound trailer, these crossovers cover the need—just be sure the exact engine and tow package are specified.

Electric SUVs that can tow 6,000 lb or more

Only a handful of EV SUVs currently exceed 6,000 pounds. They can deliver strong torque for launches but expect significant range reduction when towing and plan charging stops accordingly.

• Rivian R1S: up to 7,700 lb
• GMC Hummer EV SUV: around 7,500 lb (varies by trim/equipment)

If you’re towing often or over long distances, consider charging infrastructure along your routes and the impact of speed, terrain, and weather on range.

Key caveats when comparing tow ratings

Tow numbers aren’t apples-to-apples unless you account for equipment, payload, and legal requirements. Keep these fundamentals in mind as you shop or spec your SUV.

• “When properly equipped” matters: ratings often require a factory tow package, specific axle ratio, upgraded cooling, and a weight-distributing hitch at higher loads.
• Payload and tongue weight: tongue weight (often 10–15% of trailer weight) counts against vehicle payload along with passengers and cargo.
• Know your numbers: check the door-jamb payload sticker plus GCWR, GVWR, and the owner’s manual for your exact vehicle.
• Brakes and controllers: many jurisdictions require trailer brakes above certain weights (often ~3,000 lb) and a compatible brake controller.
• Standards: most modern ratings follow SAE J2807, but confirm manufacturer methodology and model-year changes.
• EV-specific considerations: heavy towing can reduce real-world range by 40–60% or more; plan charging stops and speeds accordingly.

Verifying the exact configuration you’ll buy—or the one you already own—is the surest way to stay within safe and legal limits while towing.

How to pick the right SUV for a 6,000‑lb trailer

Once you know your trailer’s fully loaded weight, these steps will help you select and configure an SUV that tows confidently and safely with usable payload left over.

1. Leave margin: target an SUV with at least 20% more tow capacity than your trailer’s maximum loaded weight.
2. Spec the tow package: ensure factory hitch, wiring, cooling, gearing, and a brake controller (factory or aftermarket) as needed.
3. Consider stability: longer wheelbases and adaptive air suspensions can improve control and leveling under load.
4. Match powertrain to terrain: turbo V6s, V8s, high-torque diesels, or robust hybrids can help at altitude or on grades.
5. Mind payload: account for passengers, cargo, and tongue weight so you don’t exceed the payload rating.
6. Equip for safety: use a weight-distributing/sway-control hitch when recommended and set up mirrors and trailer brakes properly.

Choosing the right package and leaving capacity headroom improves drivability, braking, and component longevity—especially on hot days, in mountains, or with frequent towing.

Summary

Numerous SUVs can tow 6,000 pounds or more, from heavy-hitting full-size models (Expedition, Sequoia, Tahoe/Yukon, Wagoneer) to capable midsize/off-roaders (Lexus GX, Land Cruiser, Grand Cherokee, Durango), luxury crossovers (X5/X7, GLE/GLS, Q7/Q8, Cayenne, GV80), and a few EVs (Rivian R1S). Focus on the exact configuration’s rating, payload, and required tow equipment, and leave a safety margin above your trailer’s fully loaded weight for the best towing experience.