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Best SUVs With 5,000+ Pound Towing Capacity (2024 Models)
2024 SUVs With 5,000+ Pound Towing Capacity: The Ultimate Guide
When you need an SUV that can handle serious towing without stepping up to a full-size truck-based model, today's mid-size SUVs offer impressive capability. Our comprehensive guide covers all 2025 model year SUVs rated to tow at least 5,000 pounds - perfect for boat trailers, campers, ATV haulers, or moving heavy loads. We'll also explain critical towing considerations to keep you safe on the road.
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Why 5,000 Pounds Matters for SUV Towing
A 5,000-pound towing capacity represents the sweet spot for recreational and utility towing needs. This capability allows you to haul:
- Mid-size travel trailers (18-25 feet)
- Bass boats and small fishing vessels
- Horse trailers for 1-2 animals
- ATV/UTV trailers with multiple vehicles
- Construction equipment and landscaping materials
- College move-in loads and furniture transport
According to RV industry data, the average travel trailer weighs between 3,000-5,000 pounds, making these SUVs ideal for family camping adventures without requiring a heavy-duty truck.
Complete List: 2025 SUVs That Tow 5,000+ Pounds
Important Note: Maximum tow ratings apply to properly equipped vehicles, often requiring factory tow packages, specific powertrains, or upgraded cooling systems. Always verify capacity for your exact configuration.
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Luxury & Performance SUVs
- Acura MDX
- Aston Martin DBX
- Audi Q7/SQ7
- Audi Q8/SQ8/RS Q8
- BMW X5/X5 PHEV/X6/X7
- Genesis GV80
- Lamborghini Urus
- Lexus GX 550/LX
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Porsche Cayenne (all variants)
- Range Rover models
- Volvo XC90 (including PHEV)
Mainstream & Family SUVs
- Buick Enclave
- Chevrolet Suburban/Tahoe/Traverse
- Dodge Durango
- Ford Expedition/Explorer
- GMC Acadia/Yukon
- Honda Passport/Pilot
- Hyundai Palisade
- Jeep Grand Cherokee/Wagoneer
- Kia Telluride/EV9
- Mazda CX-70/CX-90
- Nissan Armada/Pathfinder
- Toyota 4Runner/Highlander/Sequoia
- VW Atlas/Atlas Cross Sport
Electric & Hybrid SUVs
- Cadillac Escalade IQ
- GMC Hummer EV SUV
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
- Kia EV9
- Rivian R1S
- Tesla Model X
- Toyota 4Runner Hybrid
Critical Towing Considerations Beyond Capacity
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1. Payload Capacity: The Hidden Limitation
Your SUV's maximum payload (found on the door jamb sticker) must accommodate:
- All passengers and cargo
- Trailer tongue weight (10-15% of trailer weight)
- Aftermarket towing equipment
2. Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
This is the absolute maximum for your loaded vehicle plus trailer. Exceeding it voids warranties and creates dangerous driving conditions.
3. Proper Hitch Equipment
For 5,000+ pound towing, you'll typically need:
- Class III or IV hitch receiver
- Weight distribution hitch (for most applications)
- Electronic brake controller (mandatory over 3,000 lbs in most states)
Warning: Many unibody SUVs prohibit weight distribution hitches. Always consult your owner's manual before adding towing equipment.
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Real-World Towing: What the Ratings Don't Tell You
Manufacturer tow ratings assume ideal conditions:
- One 150-pound driver only
- Minimal cargo (under 100 pounds)
- Sea level altitude
- 70°F ambient temperature
- 10% tongue weight
In practice, you should maintain a 10-15% safety margin below maximum ratings. Factors that reduce effective capacity include:
- High altitude operation (reduces engine power)
- Hot weather (increases transmission stress)
- Mountainous terrain
- Additional passengers and gear
Choosing the Right SUV for Your Towing Needs
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For Occasional Towing (Under 6,000 lbs)
Consider more fuel-efficient options like:
- Honda Pilot (5,000 lbs)
- Hyundai Palisade (5,000 lbs)
- VW Atlas (5,000 lbs)
For Frequent Heavy Towing (5,000-7,000 lbs)
Prioritize models with:
- Dedicated tow modes (Ford, Jeep, Land Rover)
- Integrated brake controllers (available on Ford, GM, Ram)
- Enhanced cooling systems
For Maximum Capability (7,000+ lbs)
Look to truck-based SUVs:
- Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban (up to 8,400 lbs)
- Ford Expedition (up to 9,300 lbs)
- Jeep Wagoneer (up to 10,000 lbs)
Electric SUV Towing: Special Considerations
EV SUVs like the Rivian R1S (7,700 lbs) and Kia EV9 (5,000 lbs) offer impressive towing but with unique challenges:
- Range reduction of 30-50% when towing
- Need for specialized charging access with trailers
- Potential battery overheating in sustained hill climbs
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However, benefits include:
- Instant torque for confident acceleration
- Lower center of gravity for stability
- Regenerative braking helps control downhill speed
Pro Towing Tips From MotorVero Experts
- Weigh everything: Visit a truck stop scale to verify your actual weights
- Upgrade mirrors: Add extended towing mirrors for better visibility
- Check tires: Both SUV and trailer tires must be properly inflated and rated for load
- Practice maneuvering: Find an empty lot to practice backing and turning
- Monitor temperatures: Watch transmission and battery temps on long pulls
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For more detailed towing guides and vehicle reviews, explore MotorVero's comprehensive towing resources or compare SUV models head-to-head.
Motorvero G-queen
Last Updated On Sep, 24-2025