Trucks have become more comfortable and technologically advanced than ever before, but their core purpose remains the same: towing and hauling. Their large beds are built to carry gear, and their tough construction gives them the strength to handle massive loads with ease.
While all trucks can tow, some are specifically built to excel at it. Take the Ford Maverick, for instance—it’s affordable, efficient, and practical, but its towing capacity is similar to that of a typical family SUV. On the other hand, when properly equipped, full-size pickups are capable of hauling immense weight.
In the slides that follow, we showcase the best towing trucks available on the market right now. This lineup includes both light-duty and heavy-duty models, featuring a range of powertrains including gas, diesel, and electric.
Whether you’re towing for work, recreation, or daily needs, there’s likely a truck here that fits your lifestyle. We’ve organized our selections by towing capacity, starting from the lowest and working up to the highest.
2025 Tesla Cybertruck
Max Towing: 11,000 lbs | Overall Score: 8.2/10
Tesla’s all-new, head-turning Cybertruck has generated plenty of buzz. While its bold design sets it apart, it still needs to prove itself capable of handling the practical demands expected of any truck.
It comes equipped with convenient features like a power-retractable tonneau cover, under-bed storage, and additional storage space built into its sharply angled rear buttresses.
Both the dual-motor all-wheel-drive version, which produces 600 horsepower, and the tri-motor all-wheel-drive Cyberbeast, delivering 845 horsepower, offer the maximum tow rating of 11,000 pounds.
In addition, the Cybertruck boasts a payload capacity of 2,500 pounds—a strong number for a pickup. However, it’s important to remember that towing with an electric truck can cause a substantial drop in driving range.
The Tesla Cybertruck remains one of the most talked-about pickups on the market—for better or worse. It has polarized the public, with some cheering on its success and others waiting for it to fail. Regardless of opinion, the Cybertruck has left a lasting impression on the automotive world.
Looking ahead to 2025, major changes aren’t expected for the lineup, although a bed-mounted range extender battery pack may become available later in the year. Key rivals include other electric trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Hummer EV, and Rivian R1T.
After its debut in 2024, the Tesla Cybertruck is expected to enter 2025 with minimal changes aside from Tesla’s standard suite of over-the-air software updates.
The most notable addition will likely be a range-extending battery pack designed to fit in the truck bed, anticipated to launch by mid-2025. Tesla estimates that this optional pack—factory-installed and priced at around $16,000—will add 120 miles of range per charge.
However, placing it in the bed means sacrificing some cargo space in exchange for the extended driving distance. As Cybertruck sales have slowed, Tesla may respond by introducing a more affordable single-motor base model, potentially starting just above $60,000, to attract more buyers.
As one of the most eye-catching new vehicles in recent memory, the Cybertruck’s arrival has generated both admiration and skepticism—alongside questions about its true capability. After thorough testing, we’ve concluded that the Cybertruck surpasses some expectations while falling short of its own bold promises.
Its aggressively angular, stainless steel exterior commands attention, whether you’re a fan of Tesla’s design choices or not. It stands out more than any other truck on the road, which may be a draw or a deal-breaker depending on the buyer.
That said, the design does present functional limitations: the bed is hard to access due to the unconventional shape. On the plus side, it’s the deepest bed among electric trucks and is fully capable when it comes to hauling.
Interior visibility is poor, though Tesla compensates with a comprehensive network of exterior cameras. The minimalist cabin design pushes Tesla’s spartan aesthetic to the extreme—devotees of the brand will feel right at home.
Equipped with standard air suspension, the Cybertruck delivers a firm but controlled ride, maintaining composure over bumps and corners. Its handling is unexpectedly agile.
The yoke-style steering is unconventional, but Tesla’s steer-by-wire system helps make low-speed maneuvers and daily driving more intuitive.
Rear-wheel steering also assists with backing up to trailers. The Cybertruck’s off-road capability is boosted by adjustable ride height, locking differentials, and customizable power distribution between the axles.
That said, the Cybertruck’s body panels come with sharp edges and are prone to visible smudging. Activating “Car Wash Mode” involves navigating deep into the infotainment menus, and then selecting neutral “free roll mode” to clean the truck.
Unfortunately, the stainless steel finish remains cloudy even after a wash—and the trunk tends to collect soapy water.
In our Truck of the Year evaluation, we also discovered that Tesla’s own CCS adapter won’t fit without first removing fender trim. Meanwhile, the oversized wiper blade can become unstable and flap while driving.
Tesla’s strengths in the EV space—like the Supercharger network and robust mobile app—do carry over to the Cybertruck.
But the truck remains heavily compromised in some critical areas. Tesla’s Full Self Driving system is still unfinished and prone to frequent errors, undermining its promise of hands-free operation.
Buyers who are sold on the Cybertruck’s appearance likely won’t be swayed by these criticisms. However, those who are simply curious should take these drawbacks into serious consideration before making a decision.
Also Read: 5 Trucks That Can Survive 10 Years of Abuse and 5 That Can’t
2025 Rivian R1T
Max Towing: 11,000 lbs | Overall Score: 9.6/10
First launched in 2022, the Rivian R1T electric pickup moves into its second generation for the 2025 model year, bringing with it a host of technological upgrades.
Among the updates are enhanced battery packs and a revised suspension system. Buyers can choose between dual-, tri-, and quad-motor configurations, allowing for various performance levels.
The R1T offers a towing capacity of 11,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,764 pounds. Unlike traditional pickups, the R1T doesn’t adhere strictly to established truck classifications, positioning it somewhere between a compact and a full-size truck.
That makes its available range—up to 420 miles—even more impressive. Of course, as with all electric trucks, towing heavy loads will reduce its range. Still, the R1T delivers a towing capability that competes with many full-size pickups.
Launch mode is now available on the tri- and quad-motor versions of the R1T, though it takes a moment to activate as the truck lowers itself and the battery is conditioned.
“Acceleration this quick is truly in the category of ‘takes your breath away,’ and it takes a moment to unglue yourself from the seat after the initial launch,” our test driver noted. At triple-digit speeds, the test team observed some steering wheel shake, but the overall experience remained stable.
With 850 horsepower, the Tri Motor model achieves a 0–60 mph time of 2.8 seconds, outpacing the Dual Motor’s 3.4-second run. However, it’s not the fastest Rivian truck—that title belongs to the new Quad Motor, which clocked a blistering 2.5-second sprint, making it the quickest pickup truck we’ve ever tested.
Hit the brakes in the R1T Tri, and it takes 124 feet to stop the 7,016-pound truck. By comparison, the R1T Quad performs the same stop in just 104 feet thanks to its sticky summer tires, while the Tri uses rugged all-terrains.
The Dual Motor variant required 120 feet to come to a halt. In regular driving, the brake pedal does feel long in travel but remains easy to modulate during cornering. That said, misjudging your braking zone will result in noticeable understeer due to the truck’s hefty weight.
Apply the brakes properly, however, and you’ll feel the distinct rear-biased power distribution helping to rotate the truck as you exit a turn, regardless of the selected drive mode.
Choosing the R1T Tri opens up access to Rock Crawl, Drift, and Rally drive modes—capabilities exclusive to the Tri and Quad models. The Dual Motor R1T, by contrast, is limited to All Purpose, All-Terrain, Snow, Sport, and Soft Sand modes.
We tested the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires in rugged environments, and the 20-inch wheels paired with the aggressive tread (included in the $3,950 All Terrain package) handled rough trails admirably.
Each of the Tri’s off-road modes is specifically tuned for different terrain—whether it’s drifting in the desert or carefully navigating rocky paths.
However, our R1T Tri encountered an issue while climbing a steep rock face in Rock Crawl mode. The rear motors overheated, causing the truck to cut power and roll backward—fortunately in a controlled and safe manner.
After a brief cooldown and power reset, the truck recovered, though we refrained from further rock crawling that day. While the R1T Tri proved capable enough for trail duties, we couldn’t ignore the unsettled and unrefined suspension feel when driving over mild dirt-road bumps.
2025 Ram 1500
Max Towing: 11,570 lbs | Overall Score: 9.5/10
The Ram 1500 continues to stand out as one of the most comfortable and refined full-size pickups available. Instead of focusing solely on raw power, Ram emphasizes the versatility and everyday usability that truck owners rely on throughout the week and into the weekend.
For 2025, the Ram 1500 receives updates across the lineup, including larger standard and optional infotainment touchscreens.
The base 305-horsepower V6 engine remains, but the iconic Hemi V8 has been phased out. In its place is a new twin-turbo inline-six engine, available in two output levels: 420 horsepower and 540 horsepower.
The truck’s maximum towing capacity of 11,570 pounds is achieved with the 420-horsepower inline-six, paired with the Quad Cab configuration and 3.92 rear axle gearing.
The 2025 Ram 1500 receives a significant round of updates this year, including subtle changes to its exterior styling, new technology additions, and a modest refresh of the cabin.
A key highlight is the introduction of a new top-tier trim level called Tungsten, which pushes the boundaries of luxury in a full-size pickup. However, the most noteworthy change isn’t about what’s being added—it’s about what’s being taken away.
The previously available 5.7-liter V8 engine is no longer offered, and the off-road-focused TRX trim, which featured a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, has also been discontinued. As a result, all 2025 Ram 1500 models now top out at six cylinders. That said, the new turbocharged inline-six engines are more than capable of filling the void.
The standard version produces 420 horsepower, while the high-output variant delivers 540 horsepower. In our testing, these engines have proven to deliver excellent acceleration and robust towing performance, making the loss of the V8 less impactful than one might expect.
Fuel cost estimates for the 2025 Ram 1500 Tradesman 4dr Quad Cab 6.3 ft SB (3.6L 6-cylinder gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) are calculated based on 15,000 miles driven per year with a driving mix of 55% city and 45% highway.
Based on an average price of $3.13 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota, the monthly fuel cost is estimated at $176—lower than the $226 average for other full-size trucks. Despite the changes under the hood, Ram’s powertrain upgrades maintain a strong value proposition.
In terms of competitors, the 2025 Ram 1500 continues to go head-to-head with other full-size pickups such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra.
Each of these rivals brings its own strengths, from capability and comfort to advanced features and performance, making it easier for buyers to find a model that suits their specific needs. To see whether the Ram 1500 is the right fit for you, be sure to consult our full Expert Rating for a deeper dive into its performance, features, and overall value.
2025 Toyota Tundra
Max Towing: 12,000 lbs | Overall Score: 8.8/10
The Toyota Tundra offers a smooth, refined ride, a premium interior, an extensive suite of driver-assistance features, and an intuitive infotainment system.
It also comes with a range of strong V6 and hybrid V6 powertrains. For the 2025 model year, the Tundra introduces new trims and adds more available equipment to the lineup.
The base twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivers 358 horsepower, while the i-Force twin-turbo V6 produces 389 horsepower. The hybrid V6 option raises output to 437 horsepower.
Each of these engines is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds is reached when the i-Force V6 is configured with the SR5 Double Cab, a 6.5-foot bed, and rear-wheel drive.
The Toyota Tundra comes with three available powertrains, each built around a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 engine. In the entry-level SR trim, this engine is tuned to deliver 348 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. In all other trims, the output increases to 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.
A third powertrain option exists in the form of a 473-horsepower hybrid variant, which is covered in a separate review. All configurations are paired with a smooth-operating 10-speed automatic transmission.
For Tundra models equipped with four-wheel drive, a part-time system is employed—unlike some competitors that offer full-time 4WD setups. The Tundra also features a coil-spring rear suspension, similar to what’s found in the Ram 1500, which helps deliver a smoother, more comfortable ride during everyday driving.
2024 GMC Hummer EV Pickup
Max Towing: 12,000 lbs | Overall Score: 8.3/10
The Hummer EV Pickup leans more toward being a lifestyle vehicle than a traditional work truck, yet it offers capabilities that go beyond what most trucks can achieve. One standout feature is its four-wheel steering system, which enables it to “crab walk” around obstacles and perform remarkably tight turns.
The truck comes standard with a dual-motor setup generating 570 horsepower, while an available tri-motor configuration boosts output to an impressive 1,000 horsepower. Its towing capacity is rated at 12,000 pounds, putting it on par with other full-size light-duty pickups.
The Hummer EV is also equipped with a suite of cameras designed to assist with trailer monitoring and overall situational awareness. Although its estimated range is 381 miles, that number will drop when towing heavy loads.
The 2024 GMC Hummer EV stands as the brand’s electric supertruck—a title it earns through a combination of extreme hardware and formidable performance.
What qualifies this nearly five-ton electric pickup as “super” is its available tri-motor all-wheel-drive setup, which delivers up to 1000 horsepower. This version includes a performance feature called WTF mode—short for Watts to Freedom—which unlocks jaw-dropping acceleration.
During testing, this configuration launched the Hummer EV to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, an astounding feat for a vehicle of this size. However, its emergency braking performance left much to be desired, as its stopping distance was notably long.
GMC claims a maximum driving range of 381 miles for the top-spec configuration, while the dual-motor AWD model, producing 570 horsepower, is estimated to deliver 311 miles per charge.
Opting for the Extreme Off-Road package will lower these figures due to the addition of 35-inch mud-terrain tires, reinforced axles, and added underbody protection.
Regardless of the trim, every Hummer EV pickup comes equipped with a five-foot cargo box, a height-adjustable air suspension system, rear-axle steering, and GM’s Super Cruise—an advanced hands-free driving technology.
For those who don’t require a traditional pickup truck bed, GMC also offers an SUV variant of the Hummer EV, which is covered in a separate review.
While the interior materials and finishes don’t fully match the vehicle’s nearly six-figure price tag, the 2024 GMC Hummer EV pickup remains a one-of-a-kind offering on both roads and trails, unmatched in presence and capability.
Also Read: 10 SUVs That Are Overbuilt in the Best Way Possible With Power, Luxury, and Road Dominance
5 Trucks that Struggle To Tow
Modern pickup trucks have become more innovative than ever, boasting bolder exterior styling, premium interiors, and cutting-edge technology. Yet, at their core, trucks were originally built with one goal in mind: hauling cargo and tackling tough jobs.
Their immense practicality, utility, and performance are what solidified their place in the American market. Over the years, pickup trucks have evolved into more powerful and capable machines, keeping pace with advancements across the automotive industry.
However, not every modern pickup has kept up with this evolution—especially when it comes to towing. While heavy-duty models like the Ford F-350 Super Duty can tow over 24,000 pounds, several other pickups fall disappointingly short, even when considering their class and competitors.
If towing capacity is a top priority in your truck search, you’ll want to steer clear of the models listed below. These ten represent the weakest performers in towing, with low tow ratings and notable limitations when tasked with serious hauling.
1. Ford Maverick – Towing Capacity: 4,000 Pounds
The compact pickup segment is a small niche, and within it, the Ford Maverick ranks as the weakest contender. Priced at under $25,000, the Maverick is an appealing value with a generous list of features for the money. Still, it’s more of a lifestyle pickup than a true workhorse built for hauling loads.
Under the hood, the Maverick comes standard with a 2.5-liter hybrid four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, while a more capable 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 250 horsepower is available.
The base powertrain offers just 2,000 pounds of towing capacity, which increases to 4,000 pounds with the turbo engine. Even so, the Maverick lags behind its only real segment rival—the Hyundai Santa Cruz—when it comes to towing performance.
During the 1980s, compact trucks were significantly smaller than their 1990s successors, with most models measuring about a foot shorter overall. On the smaller end, they were even more compact.
For example, today’s Ford Maverick is over two feet longer than the short-wheelbase, regular cab versions of the Isuzu P’up and Toyota Pickup.
None of the compact trucks from that earlier era in this comparison come within six inches of the Maverick’s length. This period also marked a shift in the American truck market, as domestic manufacturers began designing small trucks specifically for the U.S. market.
As a result, buyers had access to a blend of new models like the Chevrolet S-10 and Ford Ranger, as well as older Japanese imports and their rebadged variants.
When it comes to performance, the modern Ford Maverick easily surpasses all of these older trucks, with the most powerful among them still falling 81 horsepower short. This was also a time when base models often had horsepower ratings in the double digits.
Despite the lower power output, these lightweight trucks could still hold their own in towing and hauling compared to the Maverick, largely due to their body-on-frame construction and lower curb weights resulting from simpler features and less stringent crash safety standards.
Notably, a few of these older trucks offered diesel engine options—something not currently available in the Maverick. In terms of pricing, the gap has widened significantly, with today’s compact truck costing roughly 30 percent more.
2. Hyundai Santa Cruz – Towing Capacity: 5,000 Pounds
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is the more stylish and better-rounded option in the compact pickup segment, standing as the Maverick’s only direct competitor.
It offers a stronger performance profile, superior handling, higher interior quality, and a more refined driving experience. As a result, the Santa Cruz clearly outshines the Maverick in most categories—though it, too, falls short as a dedicated towing machine.
The Santa Cruz offers two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower and a more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter engine rated at 281 horsepower. Towing capacity is rated at 3,500 pounds with the base engine and maxes out at 5,000 pounds with the turbocharged setup.
While that figure beats the Maverick, it’s still underwhelming when compared to midsize trucks like the Ford Ranger, which is available in a similar price bracket and can tow up to 7,500 pounds.
3. Honda Ridgeline – Towing Capacity: 5,000 Pounds
The Honda Ridgeline is part of the midsize pickup segment but stands apart due to its unibody construction, unlike the body-on-frame platforms typical of its competitors.
This design choice makes the Ridgeline less rugged and less suited for off-road and heavy-duty tasks. While it excels in comfort, featuring a roomy interior and a smooth ride, it struggles when evaluated as a capable work truck—especially in terms of towing.
Under the hood, the Ridgeline is powered by a 280-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 engine, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Despite its respectable power figures, towing capacity is limited to 5,000 pounds.
In contrast, the Ford Ranger—with a slightly less powerful 270-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder—can tow up to 7,500 pounds. Additionally, the Ranger is approximately $12,000 cheaper and offers superior off-road abilities, leaving the Ridgeline far behind in key performance areas.
The Honda Ridgeline takes a different path from the growing trend of oversized, aggressively styled off-road pickups. Instead, it delivers capability and versatility within a practical and manageable footprint.
Built on the same unibody platform as the Honda Pilot SUV and Odyssey minivan, the Ridgeline is available solely as a four-door crew cab paired with a five-foot bed. It features a single powertrain: a V-6 engine mated to all-wheel drive, which delivers brisk acceleration.
Thanks to its car-like ride and handling dynamics, the Ridgeline offers a level of comfort that outshines most traditional pickups. While it may lack the rugged aesthetic of body-on-frame competitors, it compensates with superior everyday livability and ample practicality.
4. Nissan Frontier – Towing Capacity: 6,720 Pounds
Redesigned for the 2022 model year, the third-generation Nissan Frontier presents a stronger and more refined look, but it still lags behind in the midsize truck competition.
Powering the Frontier is a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
Although its engine specs are solid on paper, the Frontier disappoints in towing performance. With a maximum capacity of 6,720 pounds, it falls short—even trailing the outdated third-gen 2023 Toyota Tacoma, which can tow up to 6,800 pounds.
Midsize towing leaders like the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon far exceed the Frontier, each offering 7,700 pounds of towing capability—highlighting the Nissan’s comparative shortfall.
The 2025 Nissan Frontier is a rugged yet practical mid-size pickup that offers a variety of configurations to suit different needs. It is equipped with a 310-hp V-6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive available as an option.
Unlike some competitors such as the Honda Ridgeline and Jeep Gladiator, the Frontier is available in both extended- and crew-cab configurations, with the latter offering a six-foot bed, while a five-foot bed comes standard.
Inside, the Frontier features a well-appointed cabin with modern amenities and decent materials, though it has been surpassed in several areas by newer trucks like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma. Still, the Frontier stands out for offering a wider selection of cab and bed sizes than many of its competitors.
For 2025, Nissan has refreshed the Frontier’s styling, including a redesigned grille and front bumper, new wheels for the PRO-X and PRO-4X trims, and a new paint color, Afterburn Orange.
New features include a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with standard wireless Android Auto, a new 360-degree exterior camera system, a standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, two-way power lumbar adjustments for the driver’s seat on select trims, and a higher maximum towing capacity of 7,150 pounds.
The six-foot long-bed option is now available across all trims except the base S trim. Nissan has also expanded standard driver-assistance features, adding lane-departure warning, automatic high-beam headlamps, and adaptive cruise control.
Pricing for the 2025 Nissan Frontier starts at $33,560 and can reach up to $43,320 depending on trim and options. The SV trim is a good choice for those seeking the best balance of features and value. Our ideal configuration would include the crew cab, four-wheel drive, and the 12.3-inch touchscreen.
5. Nissan Titan – Towing Capacity – 9,323 Pounds
The Nissan Titan, like the Nissan Frontier, tells a similar story in the full-size pickup truck category. Currently in its second generation, which was first introduced in 2016 and received a mild refresh in 2020, the Titan stands as one of the more outdated models in its segment. Its age is evident not only in its interior quality but also in its overall capabilities, including towing capacity.
Under the hood, the Nissan Titan is powered by a standard 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. While these figures look decent on paper, they fall short in real-world performance. The truck’s maximum towing capacity of 9,323 pounds is significantly lower than that of segment leaders, which can tow up to 14,000 pounds.