Pickup trucks are popular for their towing capacity and ruggedness, but you can install a tow hitch on almost any vehicle. However, some cars, vans, and SUVs are simply better suited for towing than others.
We’ve compiled a list of the best vehicles for hauling both light and heavy loads, all without the typically cumbersome size, fuel consumption, and driving dynamics of a pickup truck.
2024 Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain | 4,629 lb Max Towing Capacity | Midsize Wagon
In Europe, towing with station wagons like the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain is quite common.
This luxury long-roof vehicle boasts a manufacturer tow rating of 2,100 kg with a braked trailer and 750 kg with an unbraked trailer, which translates to 4,629 pounds braked and 1,653 pounds unbraked.
This is higher than the towing capacity of most small SUVs in the United States, making it more than capable of hauling a pair of snowmobiles, a couple of motorcycles, or even a lightweight sports car like a Miata with a specialized trailer.
For a slightly lower-capacity yet equally luxurious option in the same price range (mid-$70,000s), the Volvo V60’s top trim offers a hybrid powertrain that enables a towing capacity of up to 4,409 pounds.
Engine: 3.0L turbo I-6
Output: 362 hp @ 5,500 rpm; 369 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
Towing Capacity: 4,629 lb
2024 Volvo V90 AWD | 4,850 lb Max Towing Capacity | Full-Size Wagon
Approaching the 5,000-pound towing threshold, the 2024 Volvo V90 AWD is a serious contender. Larger and more capable than many midsize European wagons, the V90 is also a bit more budget-friendly in the high-$60,000 range.
As a non-SUV or non-truck tow vehicle, the V90’s specifications are hard to surpass. Furthermore, it earned a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, and its all-wheel-drive system provides added stability. All these features make it well worth the investment.
Engine: 2.0L turbo and supercharged I-4
Output: 295 hp @ 5,400 rpm; 310 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm
Towing Capacity: 4,850 lb
2024 Chrysler Pacifica | 3,600 lb Max Towing Capacity | Minivan
For a more affordable option, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica delivers impressive towing capacity alongside greater practicality and interior space than the sleeker wagons.
Minivans are some of the last remaining vehicles with V-6 engines, as most other vehicles have switched to turbocharged four-cylinders.
The same engine displacement that allows the Pacifica to carry passengers also aids in towing capability.
With the available towing package—which includes a heavy-duty radiator, a 2-inch hitch receiver, and four- and seven-pin trailer wiring—the Pacifica can tow up to 3,600 pounds, enough for snowmobiles or a medium-sized fishing boat. However, the Pacifica Hybrid is not rated for towing.
Engine: 3.6L V-6
Output: 287 hp @ 6,400 rpm; 262 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Towing Capacity: 3,600 lb
2024 Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana | 10,000 lb Max Towing Capacity | Commercial Van
It might surprise some to learn that the 2024 Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana offers impressive versatility and towing capacity.
These workhorse commercial vans, while not as modern or comfortable as some newer competitors like the Ford Transit, provide an enormous towing capacity of 10,000 pounds—well beyond what most SUVs can handle.
The Express and Savana are designed for heavy-duty tasks and excel in commercial applications.
Engine: 6.6L V-8
Output: 401 hp @ 5,200 rpm; 464 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Towing Capacity: 10,000 lb
2024 Dodge Durango | 8,700 lb Max Towing Capacity | Midsize SUV
While the 2024 Dodge Durango may be an older model, it still delivers impressive towing numbers the traditional way—with large V-8 engines.
With the $1,195 towing package, the 5.7-liter V-8 can tow up to 8,700 pounds, and even larger V-8 options (6.4-liter and supercharged 6.2-liter) are available, offering similar towing capacities.
These engines may not be the most sophisticated, but they certainly get the job done.
In addition to its strong powertrains, the Durango also has a stylish look and offers an engaging driving experience, making it a great option for those who need a mix of utility and fun.
Engines: 5.7L, 6.4L, or 6.2L supercharged V-8
Output: 360 hp @ 5,150 rpm; 390 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm (5.7L); 475 hp @ 6,100 rpm; 470 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm (6.4L); 710 hp @ 6,100 rpm; 645 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm (6.2L supercharged)
Towing Capacity: 8,700 lb
2024 Ford Expedition | 9,300 lb Max Towing Capacity | Full-Size 3-Row SUV
With an impressive 9,300-pound towing capacity, the 2024 Ford Expedition is just shy of pickup truck towing capacity.
This full-size SUV, which shares a platform with the F-150 pickup, can handle nearly any towing task you might throw at it.
Whether you need to tow a boat, trailer, or RV, the Expedition has the strength to get it done.
However, keep in mind that towing capacity is calculated without internal cargo, so the weight of passengers and cargo may reduce the maximum towing capacity.
With features like BlueCruise hands-free driving, the Expedition makes long hauls easier, and it offers a comfortable driving experience similar to an upscale SUV.
While the Expedition starts in the upper $50,000 range, the price can rise quickly with additional options.
Engine: 3.5L twin-turbo V-6
Output: 400 hp @ 5,000 rpm; 480 hp @ 2,250 rpm
Towing Capacity: 9,300 lb
