A vehicle does not make the list of best towing SUVs just because it claims it can handle a load. It earns its position by proving it can do exactly what it says. For a vehicle to make the list, it needs to be able to typically tow at least 5,000 pounds. Some will even be equipped with special safety features, like Trailer Sway Control. These vehicles also need to have strong brakes to be able to control and stop a load, even when descending downhill on a winding mountain road.
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A vehicle does not make the list of best towing SUVs just because it claims it can handle a load. It earns its position by proving it can do exactly what it says. For a vehicle to make the list, it needs to be able to typically tow at least 5,000 pounds. Some will even be equipped with special safety features, like Trailer Sway Control. These vehicles also need to have strong brakes to be able to control and stop a load, even when descending downhill on a winding mountain road.
Although the standard V6 on the Jeep Grand Cherokee can handle a bit of towing, if you have a heavy load, you will need the optional 360 horsepower 5.7-liter V8. This engine is good for 7,400 pounds!
Next on the list of best towing SUVs is the Toyota Highlander. Its 3.5-liter V6 is standard on Plus and SE and optional on the Base. Don't let the V6 fool you, this engine is surprisingly strong. It can produce 260 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, and tow up to 5,000 pounds. Do also checkout the Toyota 4Runner as well.
Chevrolet Traverse is another one of the best towing SUVs. Most people assume that they have to go with the larger and well respected Chevrolet Tahoe to handle a heavy load, but Traverse can manage up to 5,200 pounds and return better fuel economy at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
The GMC Acadia may be experiencing a redesign for 2013, but it has not affected its ability to tow 5,000 pounds. The surprisingly fuel-efficient 3.6-liter V6 is good for 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.
Another one of the best luxury SUVs is the Dodge Durango. The 5.7-liter V8 that is standard on some trims and optional on others can safely handle an impressive 7,400 pounds. This engine delivers 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, and it should also be noted that Durango does phenomenal in braking tests.
Equipped with a well-respected 3.5-liter V6, Ford Explorer is a vehicle that offers great acceleration and generous towing abilities, yet manages to be surprisingly fuel-efficient. With 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, yet it returns a combined average of 20 mpg. Explorer also comes standard with Trailer Sway Control.
Ford Flex is next on the list of best towing SUVs as it can handle up to a 4,500-pound towing capacity, regardless which powertrain you choose. A standard 3.5-liter V6 can be swapped for an optional turbocharged variety that delivers 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.
As you would expect, Ford Expedition also makes the list. The fierce 5.4-liter V8 offers 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, and can tow as much as 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. This is one that will safely handle your boat! Like Explorer, Expedition also comes standard with Trailer Sway Control.
Another vehicle well respected for its towing capabilities is the Toyota FJ Cruiser. It can handle 5,000 pounds with its 4.0-liter V6 that delivers 260 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Plus, if you enjoy taking the path less traveled, FJ Cruiser is a top off-road SUV as well.
Finishing the list of best towing SUVs is the Nissan Pathfinder. With its on-road comfort, off-road brawn and towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, it is easy to see why this vehicle attracts so much attention. Its 3.5-liter V6 offers 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque, yet it returns fantastic fuel economy at 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.