sequoia towing travel trailer

Can Toyota Sequoia Pull A Travel Trailer? Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity

If you own or are considering a Toyota Sequoia and you’re looking to pull your rig, you’re probably wondering: can a Toyota Sequoia pull a travel trailer?

Yes, a Toyota Sequoia can pull a travel trailer up to 7,000 pounds.

There are additional factors you’ll need to consider when pulling a camper or travel trailer with a Toyota Sequoia which we’ll cover below.

Pulling A Travel Trailer With A Toyota Sequoia

So, can a Toyota Sequoia pull a travel trailer? Yes: the Toyota Sequoia towing capacity is 7,000 pounds, so as long as your travel trailer, camper, toy hauler, or pop-up camper is under 7,000 lbs your Toyota Sequoia can successfully pull it.

Now we need to explore the additional factors you’ll need to keep in mind when pulling a camper with your Toyota Sequoia.

Toyota Sequoia Tow Package

Does The Toyota Sequoia Come With A Tow Package?

The Toyota Sequoia does not automatically come with a tow package included, so you’ll need to add one yourself or have one installed professionally.

Toyota Sequoia Travel Trailer Towing: What Do I Need?

At minimum you’ll need a trailer hitch and wiring harness to tow your camper behind your Toyota Sequoia.

Do I Need A Brake Controller To Pull A Camper With A Toyota Sequoia?

If your travel trailer or camper has electronic brakes then you’ll also need a brake controller to send a signal from your vehicle to the brakes on your trailer.

Most states have laws stating that any trailer over 3,000 pounds must have a brake controller, but check with your state for specifics.

Toyota Sequoia Towing Package Cost

Toyota sequoia trailer hitch & wiring harness cost.

Toyota Sequoia trailer hitches run between $100-$140.

Take a look at this recommended Toyota Sequoia Hitch Kit:

• 2 inch square receiver opening and solid welded construction for maximum strength and durability
• A-Coat base with black powder coat finish ensures an attractive appearance for years to come
• Rated at up to 9, 000 lbs. line pull and up to 500 lbs. tongue weight - always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for actual weight capacities
• Easy, bolt-on installation with simple hand tools; no drilling or welding required
• Offers a secure and useful attachment point perfect for many popular accessories like winches, steps, spare tire carriers, ball mounts and more

Toyota Sequoia Trailer Hitch Installation Cost

Expect to pay between $100 and $200 to have a tow package professionally installed on your Toyota Sequoia (including the hitch and wiring harness).

Toyota Sequoia Brake Controller Cost

Toyota Sequoia brake controllers cost between $100-200 for the part, and up to $250 for the installation of the brake controller.

Can You Put A Trailer Hitch On A Toyota Sequoia? Toyota Sequoia Tow Package Installation

If you’re handy and looking to save money, you can install the trailer hitch and wiring harness yourself.

Always follow the manufacturer’s directions and use proper safety precautions.

Here’s a great video walkthrough on a Toyota Sequoia trailer hitch installation:

https://youtu.be/XBpaJbSBnZQ

What Else Will I Need To Pull A Trailer With My Toyota Sequoia?

Depending on what trailer or camper you’ll be pulling with your Toyota Sequoia, you may opt for a suspension enhancement kit to reduce rear-end sag and to improve your ride quality and stability.

Additionally, if your trailer or camper has electric brakes then you’ll need a 7-way connector and brake controller kit.

What Can Toyota Sequoia Tow?

Your Toyota Sequoia can pull a camper, trailer, travel trailer, toy hauler, or pop-up camper under 7,000 pounds which is going to be most ultra lightweight campers.

The Toyota Sequoia can safely tow the following travel trailer and camper models under 7,000 lbs:

• Cruiser Embrace EL260
• Heartland Mallard M26
• Jayco Jay Flight SLX 287BHS
• Dutchmen Kodiak Ultimate 3021RBDS
• Keystone Hideout 27RLS
• Airstream Globetrotter 23FB
• Dutchmen Coleman Light 2455BR
• Rockwood Geo Pro 19TH
• Jayco Jay Flight SLX 8 265RLS This is by no means a full list, but the above are some popular examples of travel trailers that can be towed by a Toyota Sequoia.

When determining what travel trailers you can pull behind your Toyota Sequoia, you’ll want to know the following specs:

• UVM (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) aka Dry Weight : This is the weight of a trailer as it’s manufactured at the factory.  This figure includes all the weight including the axles and hitch of your trailer or camper.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) : This is the maximum weight of your personal belongings that can be added.  This is the GVWR minus the UVM, full fresh water tank weight, and full LP (liquid propane) gas weight.  In other words, CCC = GWVR – (UVM + water + gas).
• Tongue Weight aka Hitch Weight : This is the amount of weight that’s pressing down on your vehicle’s hitch or 5th wheel connection when your travel trailer or camper is fully loaded for travel.

The most important factor to look for is the dry weight or UVM of your travel trailer or camper and making sure it’s below 7,000 lbs so your Toyota Sequoia can safely tow it.

Understand that if it’s close to that number, you must also factor in any additional weight added to your trailer via cargo, water, or propane tanks and make sure the total does not exceed 7,000 pounds. 

Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity

So, how much can a Toyota Sequoia tow?

The Toyota Sequoia towing capacity is 7,000 pounds.

Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity : 7,000 lbs

Toyota Sequoia GVWR : 7,100 lbs

You’ll want to pay attention to the following specs to make sure your Toyota Sequoia can tow your camper or travel trailer:

• CGWR (Combined Gross Weight Rating) : This is the max allowable weight including your vehicle, cargo, passengers, and the trailer.
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) : This is the maximum weight capacity of your vehicle including the vehicle itself, passengers, and cargo without a trailer or camper attached.  Exceeding either or both of the Toyota Sequoia GVWR or Toyota Sequoia towing capacity can damage the vehicle.

Can A Toyota Sequoia Tow A Camper? Wrapping Things Up

Hopefully this guide helped you to understand that yes, you can pull a travel trailer with a Toyota Sequoia as long as you pay close attention to the total weight (the camper or travel trailer must be under 7,000 pounds).

Most Toyota Sequoia models don’t come with a towing package installed, so you’ll need to add one to the vehicle . Once complete, you’re ready to hit the road and get camping!

What hitch and wiring harness did you choose for your Toyota Sequoia, and what camper or trailer are you towing with it? How did the hitch installation go?  Let your fellow campers know in the comments below.

While you’re here, check out our other helpful RV repair guides:

• What to do if your RV water pump keeps running
• How to perform RV toilet foot pedal repair
• Our guide to RV roof reseal cost
• What to do if your RV heater is blowing cold air
• How to fix an RV microwave not working
• Our guide to motorhome fuel pump replacement
• How to replace RV window glazing bead
• How to fix an RV toilet not holding water
• How to fix a sagging RV slide out
• Preparing for an RV one night freeze

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• Sequoia Gens 1&2 (2001-2022)

Thinking about towing travel trailer with Sequoia

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I own a 2010 Sequoia Platinum with 5.7L engine and tow package. I'm thinking about purchasing a new travel trailer with UVW of 4200 lbs and GVW of 6500. Does anyone have experience pulling something that large and how the Sequoia handles it?  

Look in your owner's manual for towing capacity. You should be fine towing. You have a full size truck and that is what is needed to pull a big heavy trailer.  

Thanks. I did look in the manual. It states that it should be able to tow up to 8K lbs GVW. Just wanted to know how it behaved hauling something around 6K lbs.  

Thanks. I have a brake controller. I'll probably add a weight distribution system, as well. We have a smaller trailer now. We don't haul water just our gear and food in the trailer. I think I'll be good on the added weight.  

I tow 6000lbs with a 2005 SR5, 4.7. It is pretty maxed out but it does the job.  

I have a 05 SR5 also, what do you think a good trailer weight would be for me to tow? Dry weight?? Thanks  

I just bought a 2012 5.7 L Platinum and I was wondering if you ever got to towing that trailer.  

Hay, post a picture of that platinum and trailer... Gota look cool  

Good for towing? That shows it's tough, that's a vote this way! I rarely tow anything, but it sounds great as I'm thinking about getting one of these. The competition? Ford Flex (probably too new), Toyota Sienna (would I rather not go minivan?) Ford Explorer (I see these at the shop at lot, but they usually need easy tie rods/wheel bearings and keep on going). Oddly, as a tech, I see Toyota's the least...yet not oddly as they're better, but that's how it's odd. How do you judge it when you don't see the failures?  

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2006 Sequoia towing a 24 Ft. Travel Trailer

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So I've just purchased a Travel Trailer and want to make sure that I'm pulling a proper load for my truck. Thought I'd post here and see if I could get some of the "Tow-Pro's" to chime-in on my set-up. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Here are some of the key numbers: TV: 2006 Toyota Sequoia Limited 4x4, V-8, 4.7L 273-hp @ 5,400 rpm Engine displacement - 285 cu.in. Engine torque - 314 lbs.-ft. @ 3,400 rpm DOHC, 32 Valves Fuel Tank: 26.4 Gallons (147.84 lbs on full tank based 5.6 lbs. per gallon) Wheelbase: 118.1" Tow Package: Class III Hitch (Aren't these only rated to 5,000 lbs?) GVWR: 6,700 lbs. UVW(Curb Weight): 5,450 lbs. Payload Capacity: 1,250 lbs. Towing Capacity: 6,200 lbs. GCWR: 11,800 lbs. GAWR (front): 3,160 lbs. GAWR (rear): 3,900 lbs. TT: 2000 Fleetwood Prowler 24J GVWR: 6,200 lbs. UVW(Curb Weight): 4,592 lbs. Payload Capacity: 1,608 lbs. 46 Gallon Water tank: 384 lbs. Misc.: Equal-i-zer Hitch (w/ 4 Point Sway Control): 1,000 lbs./10,000 lbs. (Tongue/Trailer) (Total Hitch weight is 100 lbs.) P3 Brake Controller (The Equal-i-zer Hitch hasn't been shipped yet, so I still have a chance to go with the 1,200/12,000 hitch for the same price. As it only weighs 7 lbs. more than the 1,000/10,000, shouldn't I just go with the larger one in case I ever get a larger TV/TT?) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ By my math, it's close, but I think I'm ok. TV-Sequoia UVW 5,450 lbs. (Technically, I could reduce this number if needed by taking out the two rear seats thusly losing about 150 lbs. or so) TV-Sequoia gas 150 lbs. TV-4 passengers 450 lbs. TV-Misc. stuff 90 lbs. TV TOTAL: 6,140 lbs. TT-Trailer UVW 4,592 lbs. TT-Hitch 100 lbs. TT-Water (46 gallons @ 8.33 lbs. p/g) 384 lbs. TT-Propane (2 30 lb. tanks: 7.1 gallons per tank x 4.2 lbs. p/gallon x 2 tanks) 60 lbs. TT-Gear 492 lbs. TT TOTAL: 5,628 lbs. TV + TT = 11,768 lbs. I've edited this post to correct the TV-UVW , TV-Payload Capacity , TV-Misc. stuff numbers and TT-Propane weights. Given that I've now got a higher number for gear at 492 lbs., I feel that this is more realistic. But as suggested, I will most definitely hitting the first scale I see. What am I missing here? If I'm at these numbers and drive safely, do you folks think I'm alright? Anyone care to chime-in with their thoughts and suggestions? Thanks!  

Hitch weight needs to go up TV total and subtracted from your TT total. Doesn't effect your GCWR because you are simply moving the weight, but you need to make sure your not exceeding your GVWR. 100 lbs seems very low for a hitch weight, where did you get 100 lbs from? This isn't to big of a deal because you still have 460 lbs to spare on your GCWR even after adding the 100 lbs to the TV and removing it from the TT. If you are using a WDH and your hitch weight really is 600 lbs roughly 2/3's of that will be on the TV and the remaining 1/3 would e sent back to the trailer. With that being said you would still be safe on you numbers assuming you are not getting your numbers from a brochure and actually have weighed your travel trailer. Should be a safe tow, have fun and good luck!  

Hitch weight is the weight of the hitch itself ( ie, equalizer, Hensley, etc. ) Tongue weight is the weight that the truck must support. When using a weight distributing hitch, such as the planned equalizer, some of that weight will be carried by the trailer. I towed a 28' 4550# dry trailer with my 06 Sequoia for 2 years. It did a great job. I tow in Colorado, so even though the 06 would tow the 10000', 7% passes at 45-50 mph, I felt I was working the transmission a little too hard. On anything less than that you should do great.  

Did you mean Hitch weight or Tongue weight? If you meant hitch weight than you are missing a number in your math.  

Marazzito said: Did you mean Hitch weight or Tongue weight? If you meant hitch weight than you are missing a number in your math. Click to expand...

You are correct, the weight of the class III hitch reciever is included in the truck weight. Tongue weight is the weight from the trailer that is not supported on the trailer axles. If you tried to lift the trailer by the tongue, the amount of weight you would have to lift is the tongue weight. It should be 10-15% of the total weight of the trailer and is usually listed in the trailer brochure. If you don't have the brochure, you can determine the weight by going to a certified scale and weighing the truck on it's own, and then with the trailer attached. Make sure the equalizer bars are loose when taking this measurement and also make sure the trailer wheels are not on the scale. The difference between the measurements is your tongue weight. After you get your measurement, you can tighten your equalizer bars back up and get another reading. That will tell you how much weight is really on your truck ( about 1/3 of the weight should go back to the trailer when you tighten the bars up ) when you are traveling so you can be sure you are within the gvwr of the truck. I usually get these measurements at a landscape supply house on a wednesday afternoon. They are usually not busy and they allow me to keep their scale tied up for 5-10 minutes. They usually charge me about $0-$10. And yes, you should get the largest weight distribution bars you can get, as long as the tongue on your trailer can support them. Some lightweight c channel or small box frames can only take 750 or 1000# bars.  

Drum_Phil said: Just to clarify, when I said 100 lbs., I was referring to just the weight of the Equal-i-zer Hitch. I obtained that weight from here (Equal-i-zer's website). That's why I included that weight on the TT rather than the Sequoia. I didn't add any weights for the Class III hitch on the Sequoia as the UVW(Curb Weight) of 5,450 lbs. is the exact weight for my Sequoia's trim package. (The hitch was standard on the Limited package so the weight of the tow package(ie Class III hitch) is already included in the 5,450 lbs..) Now I am still unclear on the Tongue Weights for my set-up. The Equal-i-zer Hitch is both a Sway Control and WDH. Given the specs on my 1,000/10,000 Equal-i-zer hitch AND the Class III hitch (rated to 5,000 as I understand it), am I within tolerances here? Click to expand...

quarque said: There have been many reports about the Equal-i-zer being VERY loud in use. The friction-based part causes awful squealling and groaning during turns. You might want to consider other brands. Do a search on TS for Loud Equal-i-zer. Click to expand...

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Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity (2001-2021)

The Toyota Sequoia is one of Toyota's larger SUVs and it has a pretty impressive towing capacity as well. I was doing some research online and found that some of the stated capacities were either incorrect or there was such a large range that it made it hard to determine the proper tow rating.

I broke down all of the Sequoia's capacity specs based on the year, engine configuration and other metrics and tried to make it as easy as possible to read, sort through and understand. Here goes...

Overview of the Data For the Toyota Sequoia:

Engine Choices: There were three main engines used over the lifetime of the Toyota Sequoia and these were the 5.7L engine, the 4.7L engine and the 4.6L engine.

The 5.7L engine had some of the highest towing capacities but the 4.6L and 4.7L models also had respectable figures, in some cases only a couple of hundred pounds less of overall capacity than the 5.7L engine.

Configurations: There were two main configurations and these were a choice between 2WD and 4WD models. In general, the 2WD models had a higher overall capacity than the 4WD models.

There was not really a huge difference in overall capacity between the 2WD and 4WD models, usually in the ballpark of around 200-300 lbs. for the most part for most years.

Towing Capacity: The towing capacity for all of the models years for the Toyota Sequoia had a pretty significant range going from 6,400 lbs. all the way up to 10,000 lbs.

The metrics that impacted the capacity numbers the most was the year that the vehicle was made, the engine equipped and whether you had (or can have) a tow package installed on your vehicle.

2021 Models:

The 2021 models had all of the same trailer weight specs as the 2020 and 2019 charts but it contained the GCWR specs, instead of the vehicle capacity weights.

The towing capacity for the 2021 models ranged from 7,000-7,400 lbs., which was on point as far as the other model years, so no changes there.

Note that the ratings in the chart (7,000-7,400 pounds) were for braked trailers, or trailers that have their own braking system, separate from the vehicle's braking system. If your trailer did not have it's own brake system, then the rating took a huge hit, only having a 1,000 pound rating max.

2020-2013 Models:

The Toyota Sequoia's maximum towing capacity included the cargo weight as part of the overall capacity and is more of a GCWR but a good metric nonetheless.

From 2013-2020 the Sequoia's had the ability to tow 7,000-7,400 lbs. in total.

The model code number is the reference for the exact capacity, but the range only changed by 100 lbs. or so, so not a huge difference that would significantly impact tow capacities.

There were two different engines offered for models made from 2013-2018 [5.7 L V8 (3UR-FE) and the 5.7 L V8 (3UR-FBE)] but their specs were nearly identical, the 5.7 L V8 (3UR-FBE) was only available for 4WD models though.

2017-2013 Charts

2012 & 2011 Models:

For the 2011 and 2012 model years, there were two different engines equipped, the 5.7L and the 4.6L.

The towing capacity for the Sequoia's 4.6L ranged from 6,600 lbs. to 6,900 lbs. and ranged from 7,000 lbs. to 7,400 lbs. for the 5.7L engine.

That means that the maximum capacity for the Sequoia's made in 2011 and 2012 ranged from 6,600 lbs. to 7,400 lbs. which is a pretty significant difference, so you will want to look at the chart to determine your exact capacity.

The charts for the 2011 and 2012 model years were identical, so only one tow chart is shown.

2012 & 2011 Charts

2010 Models:

The 2010 models had very different specs, compared to 2011 and 2012 but the same two engines were offered, the 4.6L and 5.7L V8's.

The overall towing capacity for the 2010 Sequoia's ranged between 6,400 lbs.-10,000 lbs., a massive difference indeed!

The 4.6L engine had a range between 6,400 lbs. and 7,300 lbs. and the 5.7L engine sparked weights from 7,800 lbs. to 10,000 lbs. It is important to note that some of these vehicles had a tow package installed to achieve some of these higher capacities and stats for models without the package installed.

2009 & 2008 Models:

For 2008 and 2009, there were two engine options, the 4.7L engine and the 5.7L engine.

The overall towing capacity for the Toyota Sequoia's made from 2008-2009 ranged from 5,600 lbs. to 10,000 lbs., a 4,400 lb difference!

The 4.7L engine had a maximum capacity of 6,200 lbs. to 7,800 lbs. but the 5.7L engine had a capacity of 7,800 lbs. to 10,000 lbs.

I would recommend referring to the chart if you are looking up your tow capacity for a 2008 or 2009 model because there was a huge range, even for a specific engine with a specified configuration. The chart below shows that the minimum difference is 1,600 lbs alone!

2009 & 2008 Charts

2007-2004 Models:

For models made from 2004-2007, there was no engine configurations specified and the towing capacity ratings were much more simple for these years too.

The towing capacity for Toyota Sequoias made from 2004-2007 ranged from 6,200 lbs. to 6,500 lbs. and was based on whether the model was a 2WD or 4WD model.

There was only one engine option for the 2004-2007 models and it was the 4.7L model that was used in later years, along with a 5.7L engine.

2007-2004 Charts

2003-2001 Models:

The 2001-2003 Toyota Sequoia's had two maximum towing capacity specs that were stated as 6,500 lbs. max for 2WD models and a 6,200 lb. maximum tow limit for 4WD models.

The specs for the 2001-2003 models were identical to the 2004-2007 models but I wanted to split it up since the area where they were specified looked different.

2003-2001 Charts

It is important to note that some models with specific trim options will have slightly different towing capacities, based on which trim/model you have.

The image below shows an example of this with a 2012 model and states the different towing capacities for the SR5, Limited and Platinum models.

Where Do I Find The Model Code Number (2008-Present Models)?

The model code number is the main identifying factor for 2008-present models and to get your specific towing capacity for the Toyota Sequoia, even though there is not a huge difference from the other main factors of maximum capacity (engine configuration, 2WD vs 4WD, etc.).

The model code number is located along the driver's side door jamb, by the door latch hook, as shown in the image below. The label that the model number will be printed on will be labeled the "Certification Label".

Below is an example of what a Certification Label looks like for a Sequoia and the location of the model code is circled in red, to give you a better idea of where it is located on the label. There is also other good information on this label that can give you other towing related metrics like GVWR, Axle Ratings, etc.

Resources I Used:

Below is various links to all of the Toyota Sequoia's owners manuals that I used when conducting my research. These are all from Toyota's website and I wanted to include them for an easy to find reference library for anyone who wants to look up the specs for themselves...

• 2021 Owner's Manual
• 2020 Owner's Manual
• 2019 Owner's Manual
• 2018 Owner's Manual
• 2017 Owner's Manual
• 2016 Owner's Manual
• 2015 Owner's Manual
• 2014 Owner's Manual
• 2013 Owner's Manual
• 2012 Owner's Manual
• 2011 Owner's Manual
• 2010 Owner's Manual
• 2009 Owner's Manual
• 2008 Owner's Manual
• 2007 Owner's Manual
• 2006 Owner's Manual
• 2005 Owner's Manual
• 2004 Owner's Manual
• 2003 Owner's Manual
• 2002 Owner's Manual
• 2001 Owner's Manual

Last updated on May 15th, 2021 at 03:06 am

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Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity (2001 – 2023)

The Sequoia was introduced into Toyota’s lineup as a full-size SUV in 2001 and is still made today. Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability and for having the features consumers expect from today’s SUVs, including towing. But what is the towing capacity of a Toyota Sequoia?

The Toyota Sequoia has a towing capacity of 6,400 pounds to 10,000 pounds depending on the engine, drivetrain, and model year.  Most recent Sequoia model years can tow between 7,000 pounds to 7,400 pounds.

There’s a bit more to know about Toyota Sequoia towing capabilities which we’ll cover in today’s guide.

Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity By Year

As we covered earlier, the current 2023 Toyota Sequoia can tow a maximum of 10,000 pounds depending on the year, engine, towing package, and other factors.

The Sequoia has been in production from 2001 through the present. We’ve listed out the maximum tow capacity by year below for reference.

Note that for each model year, there are many variables that affect the total towing capability of each vehicle year, so we recommend checking your specific Sequoia year and trim level in the links below for an in-depth guide and to get the most accurate information for that year.

Here’s the maximum Toyota Sequoia towing capacity by year:

2023 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 9,520 pounds

2022 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2021 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2020 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2019 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2018 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2017 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2016 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2015 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2014 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2013 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2012 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2011 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 7,400 pounds

2010 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 10,000 pounds

2009 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 10,000 pounds

2008 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 10,000 pounds

2007 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

2006 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

2005 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

2004 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

2003 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

2002 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

2001 Toyota Sequoia Tow Capacity : 6,500 pounds

You can also read our guide on what makes a vehicle towing capacity to learn all the aspects that go into it.

Here’s a video showing the Toyota Sequoia being put to a real-world towing test pulling an Airstream trailer:

Toyota Sequoia Braked Vs. Unbraked Towing Capacity

All vehicles have different towing capacities based on whether or not you’re towing a trailer that has trailer brakes installed.

Trailer brakes allow the trailer to stop faster than if only the vehicle is using its brakes, allowing the vehicle to tow more weight, so braked towing capacity will always be higher than unbraked towing capacity.

Toyota Sequoia Braked Towing Capacity: 6,400 lbs – 10,000 lbs.

Toyota Sequoia Unbraked Towing Capacity: 1,000 lbs.

Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity Factors

There are a few factors that affect the Toyota Sequoia tow capacity.

Toyota’s trim levels vary, with all trim levels having access to the same engine size.

Even so, each trim level has it’s own unique towing cap.

For example, the same engine is in the 2023 Sequoia 2WD SR5 as the 2023 Sequoia 2WD Capstone, but the SR5 can pull 240 more pounds.

Whether your Sequoia has a 2WD or 4WD will impact how much it can pull.

Standard Sequoia models with 2WD drivetrains can usually tow more weight than 4WD models.

Number Of Passengers

This is true for determining how much you should tow with any vehicle, but the number of passengers in your Toyota Sequoia can impact how heavy of a trailer you can pull with it.

This impacts the total weight inside the vehicle, which plays a part in determining how much weight you have left for towing when considering the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

Toyota Sequoia Engine Specs

There is one engine option available on all trims of the Sequoia.

i-Force MAX 3.445 Liter V6 Engine

The only Toyota Sequoia engine offered is the i-Force MAX 3.445 Liter Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid engine.

This engine produces 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft of torque.

This engine is available on all Sequoia trim levels.

Toyota Sequoia Tow Package Info

Does The Toyota Sequoia Have A Tow Package?

All trim levels of the current Toyota Sequoia come with a factory-installed trailer hitch as standard equipment.

Toyota offers a factory-installed Sequoia tow package option called the Tow Technology Package.

It includes a digital display rear view mirror and a trailer backup guide with straight path assist.

The Sequoia tow technology package is available on the SR5 and Limited trim levels, and is standard on the Capstone trim level.

The Sequoia Capstone also has power tow mirrors included as standard equipment, and are optional on other trim levels.

Can You Install A Trailer Hitch On a Toyota Sequoia?

If you plan on towing anything with your Toyota Sequoia, you’ll need a tow hitch and wiring harness.

Depending on what you’re towing, you’re going to need a ball mount (aka a trailer ball hitch) so you can attach items for towing.

Make sure to get the right trailer ball size that matches your hitch and trailer.

Toyota Sequoia Tow Hitch

Trailer hitches come in different hitch classes , which are rated for different vehicle sizes and weight limits.

The Toyota Sequoia uses a Class 3 or Class 4 hitch.

Here’s a great option for a Class III Toyota Sequoia trailer hitch :

• DEPENDABLE STRENGTH. This trailer hitch is rated for 5,000 lbs. gross trailer weight, 500 lbs. tongue weight, 6,500 lbs. weight distribution capacity and 650 lbs. weight distribution tongue weight (limited to lowest-rated towing component)
• VERSATILE DESIGN. This class 3 hitch equips your vehicle with a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver, allowing for a wide variety of towing options. It can accept a ball mount, cargo carrier, bike rack, tow hook and much more
• FULLY TESTED. Every CURT class 3 trailer hitch design is tested in real-world, on-vehicle conditions at our Detroit engineering facility. Aftermarket hitches are tested according to SAE J684 standards for the utmost safety while hauling
• RUST, CHIP, UV-RESISTANT. This tow hitch is protected with a unique dual-coat finish of rust-resistant liquid A-coat and highly durable black powder coat. The two finishes are co-cured together for exceptional resistance to rust, chipping and UV rays
• EASY TO INSTALL. This hitch offers a custom, factory fit on select model years of the Toyota Sequoia

Here’s a great ball mount option so you can hook up different types of trailers for towing with your Sequoia:

• DEPENDABLE STRENGTH. Rated to tow 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight, this ball hitch offers dependability for your towing setup (weight capacity may change if trailer ball is removed)
• VERSATILE USE. This trailer hitch ball mount comes with a 1-1/4-inch shank to fit virtually any industry-standard 1-1/4-inch receiver. The ball mount has a 3-1/4-inch drop, 2-inch diameter ball, 1/2-inch hitch pin hole and 7-1/4-inch overall length
• READY TO TOW. Hitching up your trailer is easy with this ready-to-use trailer hitch ball mount. It comes with a pre-attached tow ball for ready coupling and a trailer hitch pin to securely mount onto your hitch receiver
• CORROSION-RESISTANT. For long-lasting use, this ball hitch is protected with a durable black powder coat finish, and the trailer ball has a polished chrome plating. These finishes resist damage from rain, dirt, road salt and other corrosive threats
• EASY TO INSTALL. To install the trailer hitch ball mount on your vehicle, simply insert the shank into your vehicle's 1-1/4-inch hitch receiver. The rounded shank makes installation easy

Toyota Sequoia Trailer Hitch Installation

If you’re considering having a tow hitch added to your Sequoia, expect to pay between $100 and $200 to have a tow package professionally installed (excluding the cost of the tow hitch and wiring harness).

If you’re handy and looking to save money, you can install the trailer hitch and wiring harness yourself.

Always follow the manufacturer’s directions and use proper safety precautions.

Here’s a great video walkthrough on a Toyota Sequoia trailer hitch installation:

Hitch Receiver Vs Rear Step Bumper Towing

Some vehicles allow for bumper towing, which means you can mount a tow hitch ball directly on the bumper instead of installing a tow hitch to the vehicle’s frame.

Can I Bumper Tow With A Toyota Sequoia?

The Toyota Sequoia does not allow for bumper towing, so you’ll need to use a frame mounted hitch.

How Do I Know If My Toyota Sequoia Has A Tow Package?

You can start by looking under the rear bumper of your Sequoia to see if you notice a trailer hitch or trailer ball.

That will give you a good indication of if you have a tow hitch already installed on your Sequoia.

Another way to research this is by checking the paperwork that came with your vehicle or taking it to a local dealer to see what’s installed.

Make sure to have your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) handy if you call the dealer so they can look up the exact specs and whether or not your vehicle has any towing packages or features installed on it.

Data Accuracy

We’ve gathered all data represented here from the official  Toyota Sequoia Owner’s Manuals on Toyota’s website  and have checked all data thoroughly for accuracy.

Having said that, we still recommend you refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual yourself before towing with your Toyota Sequoia.

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The New 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Is Surprisingly Good at Towing: Here’s Why!

Andre pulls one of his classic vehicles out of storage to test the Sequoia's towing prowess

With a max tow rating of 9,020 lbs, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is near the top of its class for towing.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is all new for this year, and it comes with Toyota’s beefy twin-turbocharged V6 as part of a hybrid system. Combined output is 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. All that grunt goes through a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid setup is the way all Sequoia models sell.

You can get a base version with rear-wheel drive, which tows up 9,500 pounds, but today we’re testing the most ruggedly equipped Sequoias of the bunch.

We’re fortunate that Andre was able to get his Buhanka 4×4 van out of hibernation for this test. While we have more on-road and off-road videos coming for the Sequoia TRD Pro, this one focuses on how well Toyota’s flagship SUV can tow. Andre tows his old-school Russian van from Denver, Colorado to Tumbleweed Ranch. Check out how the Sequoia performs in the video below !

It’s actually a surprisingly good test for the new Sequoia. Not only is the Buhanka weighty, but the length of the trailer will also prove challenging.

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The 16 Best SUVs for Towing in 2023

Opt for one of these versatile SUVs for confident and comfortable towing.

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SUVs have become one of the most popular vehicles on the road. They are spacious, pleasant to ride in, and include the latest innovations and safety features — which make them a great option for families. And with their powerful engines and many times, truck-based chassis, SUVs are also exceptional for towing.

Say you’re loading up a trailer with motorcycles or UTVs, hauling a boat, or packing the RV trailer for a weekend outing. With the right SUV, you can tow all your gear with ease.

To help you find the right vehicle, we’ve scoured the long list of possibilities and picked the best SUVs for towing. Furthermore, you’ll find the top SUVs for towing sorted by class: midsize SUV, full-size SUV, and luxury SUV.

Best Midsize SUVs for Towing

2023 jeep grand cherokee summit (towing capacity: 7,200 pounds).

If you’re looking for a do-everything SUV for all your activities, look no further than the Jeep Grand Cherokee . The appointed kingpin —  the Grand Cherokee Summit — can tow up to 7,200 pounds. On top of that, you’ll find a spacious, upscale cabin and a user-friendly infotainment system with available Amazon Fire TV built-in.

A base 2023 Grand Cherokee Laredo, with the standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 and a max tow capacity of 6,200 pounds, runs around $43,530 MSRP. Moving up the ladder, the decked-out Summit has a starting price tag of $64,204. Selecting the available 5.7L V8 gives the Grand Cherokee a max towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.

The new 2023 Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Though not quite as burly as its normally aspirated brothers, it can still tow a respectable 6,000 pounds.

2023 Dodge Durango SRT 392 (Towing Capacity: 8,700 Pounds)

The 2023 Dodge Durango lineup features a few models to choose from, but if you’re looking for the best option for towing, we recommend going with the SRT 392. This premium package has a powerful 6.4L HEMI V8, which produces 475 horsepower, 470 pound-feet of torque, and a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds.

Of course, if you’ve got money to burn, you can always opt for the 2023 Durango SRT Hellcat if you’d like your HEMI V8 to come supercharged. The Hellcat has a max tow rating of 8,700 pounds, but thanks to the addition of forced induction, it makes a staggering 710 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque.

Best-in-class towing doesn’t come cheap. The Durango has an MSRP starting at $70,295 for the SRT 392 and, at minimum, an extra 15-large for the SRT Hellcat . However, you get some additional upgrades for the price, like performance brakes, a limited-slip differential, all-wheel drive , and an adaptive suspension.

If you spend slightly less, you could opt for other less powerful models within the Durango lineup. Keep in mind these all come standard with rear-wheel drive. Expect a $2,000 upcharge for AWD. The mid-tier Durango R/T, set up with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and Tow N Go package, has a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. The other models configured with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine can tow up to 6,200 pounds.

Best Full-Size SUVs for Towing

2023 chevrolet suburban (towing capacity: 8,300 pounds).

While you’ll receive slightly less pulling power with the Chevrolet Suburban than the Tahoe , it still ranks as one of the best SUVs for towing. The spacious interior is hard to beat if you have a large family or a lot of gear. Equip the Suburban with the front bench seat, and you’ll have room for nine people inside. If you prefer cargo space, you get 144.7 cubic feet of room with the rear seats folded down.

To get the max towing capacity of 8,300 pounds, you’ll have to opt for the 2WD 5.3L V8, which churns out 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and add on the Max Trailering Package. If you don’t mind a slightly reduced max towing capacity, you can opt for 4WD or a 3.0L Turbo Diesel for your Suburban build. Just be sure to add on the Max Trailering Package, which includes an integrated trailer brake controller and changes the axle ratio.

With six trim packages to choose from, starting at $58,695 for the LS to $80,345 for the High Country, you can deck out the 2023 Suburban to fit your towing and budget needs.

2023 Chevrolet Tahoe (Towing Capacity: 8,400 Pounds)

With the Chevy Tahoe, you get a stylish SUV with plenty of power to haul all of your gear. Three engines are available to drive two wheels or four. The standard fitment includes a 5.3L V8 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. Or bump up to a 6.2L V8 that pumps out 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The 3.0L Duramax diesel option delivers 277 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and can pull 8,200 to 8,400 pounds.

To get the enormous 8,400-pound maximum towing capacity, you’ll have to include the Max Trailering Package with the 2WD 5.3L gas engine or Duramax diesel model. The standard towing capacity of the 2023 Tahoe can still pull up 7,600 to 7,900 pounds without the Max Trailering Package.

Chevy’s Max Trailering Package includes features such as a trailer brake controller, Advanced Trailering System in-truck towing app, hitch guidance with hitch view, and an extra capacity cooling system. The driver can use the Advanced Trailering System app to configure additional towing specifics like customized trailer profiles, pre-departure checklists, and trailer tire pressure and temperature monitoring. More available high-tech features to make driving with a trailer less stressful include Trailer Sway Control, Trailer Theft Alert, and Hill Start Assist.

2023 GMC Yukon (Towing Capacity: 8,400 Pounds)

Chevrolet’s sister brand, GMC, brings the Yukon to the party, and this full-size SUV is a great option if you want a capable trailering vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice any creature comforts. We’re talking about options like exclusive interior designs and 13 camera views that include High Definition Surround Vision. Many drivers comment that the Yukon delivers such a comfortable, smooth ride that they forget they’re driving one of the best SUVs for towing.

To get the max tow rating of 8,400 pounds, choose a rear-wheel-drive model with the standard 5.3L V8 engine, good for 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. You’ll need to add the Max Trailering Package to reach its full potential.

Suppose you don’t mind a slightly reduced tow capacity. In that case, the Yukon AT4 and Denali models can master 8,200 pounds when set up with the Max Trailering Package. The AT4 has all-wheel drive and a 5.3L V8. The Denali has rear-wheel drive and a more powerful 420 horsepower 6.8L V8.

2023 Nissan Armada (Towing Capacity: 8,500 Pounds)

Nissan’s best foot forward for towing is the body-on-frame Armada . It’s equipped with a 5.6L V8 engine that cranks up 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. That stash of power accounts for its max towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. 

If you want the most towing power, you’ll have to go with the rear-wheel-drive option. And once you’ve decked out your Armada build with all the towing features, you also get some nice add-ons like auto-leveling suspension, a trailer brake controller, and trailer sway control monitoring — which can help if you are towing in crosswinds or other less-than-ideal conditions.

Starting at $49,900, the Armada delivers on Nissan’s claim of premium styling and rugged capability, a great combination when you’re seeking the best SUV for towing.

2023 Ford Expedition (Towing Capacity: 9,300 Pounds)

In terms of full-size SUV tow capacity, the 2023 Ford Expedition ranks as one of the best in class, boasting a maximum trailering capacity of 9,300 pounds. Its twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine pulls out all the stops for 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Plus, with seating for up to eight people and their cargo, the Expedition is more than up to the task.

If you want this SUV’s maximum towing capacity, you’ll need to tack on the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, which runs about $800. This package adds a digital rearview camera, integrated trailer brake controller, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, reverse brake assist, and an electronic limited-slip differential. Otherwise, the max trailer weight sits at 6,600 pounds without the tow package.

2023 Toyota Sequoia (Towing Capacity: 9,520 Pounds)

Until 2021, the best SUV for towing in the Toyota lineup was the Land Cruiser. Since 2022, it had to abdicate the throne to the Sequoia. The all-new Sequoia sits on a modern body-on-frame chassis with a fully boxed frame shared by the Tundra . This SUV is no slacker and has a max trailer hauling capacity of 9,520 pounds.

Bringing all that force to bear is an i-FORCE MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid drivetrain that’s good for 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of twist. Basically, the i-FORCE MAX sandwiches a 48-horsepower electric motor between a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 and a traditional 10-speed automatic transmission. Our review of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia gets into more details and insights.

Interestingly, the Toyota Sequoia SR5 grade has the largest max towing capacity. The Limited and Platinum grades have a maximum hauling capacity of 9,300 pounds. With seven seats and a luxurious interior, Toyota’s new towing king more than makes up for the loss of the Land Cruiser.

Best Luxury SUVs for Towing

2023 audi q7/sq7 (towing capacity: 7,700 pounds).

You might not immediately think of the Q7 when looking at the best SUVs for towing, but the all-wheel-drive German luxury family hauler can tow up to 7,700 pounds. Of course, upgrading to the 3.0L V6, rated at 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, is necessary to get the job done. Don’t forget to select the towing package when optioning your Q7 to get the tow hitch receiver and connector pin.

The SQ7 sports a 4.0L eight-cylinder mill that churns out 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of twist for those who prefer European excellence at breakneck speeds. However, that extra power still amounts to only 7,700 pounds of trailering capacity.

Inside the Q7 and SQ7, you get space for seven passengers and plenty of room to haul gear. What’s more, you can expect Audi’s signature Euro luxury with sport touches and just enough modern tech to be helpful without being overwhelming. When all is said and done, you’ll proudly own one of the best luxury midsize SUVs for towing.

2023 Audi Q8/SQ8/RS Q8 (Towing Capacity: 7,700 Pounds)

Audi’s family-friendly Q8 effectively blends SUV capabilities with sedan characteristics. A turbocharged V6 supplies a healthy dose of power, rated at 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine pairs up with an eight-speed automatic and the legendary quattro all-wheel drive. The Q8 can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped with the tow package.

In typical Audi fashion, the plush cabin features premium materials and a leading-edge infotainment system. Passengers can sit back and enjoy four-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and customizable ambient interior lighting.

500 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension system define the 2023 Audi SQ8. Its luxury appointments and daily driveability match the standard Q8 model — only at an elevated level. The racier RS Q8 checks in with a soaring twin-turbo V8 cranking out 591 horsepower and a prestigious 590 pound-feet of torque. Either way, a properly equipped SQ8 and RS Q8 share the same 7,700-pound max hauling capacity.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 (Towing Capacity: 7,700 Pounds)

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 can tow a hefty 7,700 pounds. Credit goes to the twin-turbo inline-6, which musters 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Definitely add the Class IV trailer hitch to deck out the GLS 450 with a wiring harness for your brake lights and trailer brakes. The nine-speed automatic transmission connects to an all-wheel-drive system for a smooth drive.

There’s seating for up to seven in this luxury SUV, and it comes standard with trailer stability assist. This feature offers some additional peace of mind while towing. True to Mercedes-Benz form , the cabin of the GLS 450 is upscale and lavish, replete with plenty of perks that come standard for you and your passengers.

2023 Land Rover Range Rover P530 (Towing Capacity: 8,200 Pounds)

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover isn’t just a top-end luxury vehicle but a brilliant contender as one of the best SUVs for towing. The P530 model has a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 that can trailer up to 8,200 pounds. An exuberant 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque propel the Land Rover’s renowned all-wheel-drive system across almost any terrain imaginable.

Thanks to Range Rover’s premium-level trim packages and an extensive list of expensive upgrades, the posh cabin serves as a majestic and tranquil cocoon from the rigors of everyday life. If you want to tow in a fashionable style in a whip with serious off-road cred, the latest generation Range Rover will not disappoint.

2023 Cadillac Escalade (Towing Capacity: 8,200 Pounds)

For drivers who want their cake and eat it too, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade epitomizes American automotive opulence. Look beyond the massive grille, and you’ll find a 6.2L V8 engine and 10-speed transmission that combine for 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Frankly, it’s the same powerplant found under the hood of the Yukon Denali. Opt for the rear-wheel-drive model with the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package, and your Escalade can haul up to 8,200 pounds in style.

Thanks to the elegant interior and refined ride, the Escalade feels like a true Cadillac. Without question, the styling is distinct and dramatic. Inside, you can play with some fun tech, like the three interactive OLED displays that combine for a total of 38 inches in front of the driver. Your passengers will be happy too. What’s not to like about buttery-soft leather seats that offer massage, heating, and cooling, an available AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker audio system, and Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride Adaptive suspension that soaks up the bumps?

New for 2023 is the Escalade-V and its 682-horsepower supercharged 6.2L V8. Torque from the supercharged behemoth peaks at 653 pound-feet to reach its trailering capacity of 7,000 pounds. Aside from its hearty towing prowess, the Escalape-V will snap from 0-60 in 4.4 seconds. Learn more about its capabilities by reading our review of the Escalade-V .

2023 Infiniti QX80 (Towing Capacity: 8,500 Pounds)

Few SUVs surpass this body-on-frame Infiniti if you want a taste of luxury but still need an SUV capable of towing. For 2023, the redesigned Infinity QX80 looks gargantuan, but the revamped interior is more opulent than ever. Tucked in the engine bay sits a tried-and-true 5.6L V8 producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This award-winning engine pairs perfectly with the seven-speed automatic transmission for a velvety smooth ride and an abundance of towing power.

To reach the QX80’s maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds, you’ll need the rear-wheel-drive setup and the Class IV trailer hitch. Inside, you get seating for up to eight passengers and a generous amount of room in the back for cargo. Plus, if it’s luxury or the latest tech you’re after, you can easily build out the QX80 to be a sophisticated, top-dollar ride.

2023 Lincoln Navigator (Towing Capacity: 8,700 Pounds)

Lincoln outdid itself with their body-on-frame SUV. The 2023 Navigator gets a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 that puts out 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The nicely appointed cabin features a first-class interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plush seating. There’s even an option to add on a rear-seat entertainment system, which is ideal for long trips on the road with family.

With the addition of the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package, the 2WD standard Navigator’s towing capacity gets elevated from 6,200 to 8,700 pounds. If you opt for the AWD option, your limit with the towing package slips to 8,300 pounds. Included in the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing package, you get some nice add-ons that increase safety, like trailer sway control, a heavy-duty radiator, a trailer brake controller, and backup camera assist.

2023 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer (Towing Capacity: 10,000 Pounds)

The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer soar high into the premier SUV realm. But don’t let the six-figure price tag and reborn nameplate dissuade you from taking a serious look at Jeep’s luxury SUV. A silky-smooth V8 with heaps of torque and a buttery-velvet ride might convince you that this is the one for you and the family.

Getting down to business, the Wagoneer comes standard with a 5.7L V8 coupled with a mild hybrid setup. The belt/generator has 12 kW of power and 130 pound-feet of launch torque. The total system power adds up to a hefty 392 horsepower and 404 pound-feet of torque. Check the box for the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package to attain the Wagoneer’s unparalleled trailering capacity of 10,000 pounds.

The Grand Wagoneer is every bit as much a Jeep as its smaller brother. Underneath the hood is a 6.4L V8 capable of pumping out 471 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. The modified Ram chassis and factory tow package give the Grand Wagoneer a super-size hauling capacity of 9,850 pounds.

How to Choose the Best SUV for Towing

You might have noticed that our list didn’t include crossovers and only a few midsize SUVs. In general, crossovers and most small to midsize SUVs aren’t built on truck chassis and won’t offer the same tow ratings as full-size SUVs. At the end of the day, the best SUV for you will greatly depend on your specific towing needs, including how much and how frequently you tow.

Finding the best SUV for towing is still possible, no matter what class you’re looking in. You just have to know what to look for. Here are some guidelines to help you find the SUV that works best for you.

1. Tow Capacity

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle can tow. The manufacturer sets this limit, and this should be the first thing you consider before making a purchase. Max towing capacities are based on how much weight you can safely tow behind your SUV. Always refer to the manufacturer for your vehicle’s tow rating.

2. Curb Weight

Curb weight refers to the weight of a vehicle when the fuel tank is full, without any cargo or passengers. Because fuel efficiency has become important, you’ll find that lighter SUVs are still capable of towing trailers these days. While this might be a good option for some, other people feel they have more control when trailering if they drive a heavier tow vehicle.

3. Wheelbase

A vehicle’s wheelbase refers to the distance from the front axle to the rear axle. The wheelbase is crucial for stability and control. The longer your wheelbase is, the less chance you have for the towed object to weigh down your vehicle and lift the front axle.

4. Drive System

Another consideration to keep in mind is whether you want four-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or rear-wheel drive. You’ll notice in all of our options for the best SUVs for towing we specified when one offered better overall towing capacity.

Most of the time, you’ll want rear-wheel drive to achieve the highest tow rating. This configuration directs all the power to the axle that bears the most weight. You can tow with 4WD or all-wheel-drive systems, though they typically have a lower total tow capacity. It’s not as optimal to tow with a front-wheel-drive vehicle.

5. Transmission

Of course, opinions abound about what transmission should be in the best SUV for towing. With newer SUV models, you likely won’t have the option to go with a manual transmission , as most modern SUVs are equipped with automatic transmissions.

The Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco are the exceptions that still offer a manual transmission option, on a few trim levels at least. Alternatively, you might be able to find older models in a manual.

The bottom line is that you’ll want whatever transmission — automatic or manual — that you’re most comfortable with. The more confidence you have, the easier towing becomes.

6. Chassis Design

SUVs and trucks most times offer body-on-frame construction that is capable of towing heavy loads. Crossovers utilize a unibody design instead, which is similar to cars and not optimal for towing. The extra strength that the chassis provides in most SUVs and trucks, on the other hand, is designed for heavy tow duties.

7. Tow Package

You need more than just a ball hitch to tow effectively. If the manufacturer offers an optional tow package for the SUV you are considering, it’s normally well worth the investment. Most times, the package offers a better suspension, a bigger radiator, and better brakes, plus a transmission that sends more power to the drive wheels. These components work together to create a more powerful vehicle that can handle heavy loads. In fact, without a tow package, you won’t get the same tow rating capacity as what we’ve listed for most of the vehicles.

Get One of the Best SUVs for Towing and Get Out on Your Next Adventure

There’s so much information about the best SUVs for towing. You’ll have to research and determine what you need before purchasing. Whether you opt for a midsize, full-size, or luxury SUV, it’s essential that you take the steps necessary to ensure you remain safe on the road. But once you’ve done your homework, imagine all the places you can tow with your new SUV.

The Best Electric Vehicles for Towing

An EV may be your next tow vehicle, and the options just keep getting better. These are the best electric vehicles for towing in 2023. Read more…

The 10 Best Camper Trailers of 2023

From solo travelers to couples, families, and groups, here are the most reliable, enjoyable camper trailers for road trips and overland adventures. Read more…

Derek is a shopaholic that lives, breathes, and dreams of all things automotive. Prior to his current role at GearJunkie, he established the eBay Motors blog, was an editor at  TFLcar.com , and soaked up a lot of knowledge about custom hot rods during his time with The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. When not diving into engine bays, gratifying diversions include photography, mountain biking, and the pursuit of happiness.

Kristen Arendt is a creative writer and lover of the great outdoors. A long-time competitive runner on both the roads and track, she’s branched out into vehicle-assisted adventure, trail running, and backpacking. When she’s not playing with words or planning her next adventure, she’s most likely exploring a trail in the mountains of her home state of Colorado.

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