Edmunds' automotive experts have released their top picks for SUVs capable of towing in the 2026 model year. The recommendations span a wide variety of vehicle classes, including compact hybrids, midsize versatile models, and high-end luxury electric vehicles.
The 2026 spectrum from 3,500-pound RAV4s to 10,000-pound Grand Wagoneers
The upcoming 2026 SUV market is witnessing a significant technological pivot, moving away from purely internal combustion engines toward hybrid and all-electric powertrains. this shift is evident in the redesigned Toyota RAV4,which now features a hybrid-only lineup for the upcoming model year. As consumers increasingly demand vehicles that can handle recreational tasks like hauling boats or campers, manufacturers are forced to balance increased weight from batteries with the need for robust towing capacities.
According to the report, the capabilities vary wildly depending on the trim and configuration chosen. While the base LE trim of the Toyota RAV4 is limited to a 1,750-pound capacity, higher SE and XLE trims equipped with all-wheel drive can reach 3,500 pounds. at the far end of the scale, the Grand Wagoneer offers a massive 10,000-pound tow rating, provided the buyer selects a four-wheel-drive model with the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer-Tow package.
Nissan’s 6,000-pound Pathfinder targets the midsize segment
For drivers who need more muscle than a compact crossover but do not require a full-size behemoth, the Nissan Pathfinder emerges as a primary contender.. The report highlights the Pathfinder as a versatile middle ground, sitting between the smaller Rogue and the larger Armada.
When properly equipped with the Premium package and all-wheel drive, the Pathfinder achieves a class-leading 6,000-pound tow rating for its segment. This capacity makes it suitable for pulling midsize boats or lightweight car haulers . The 2026 model also benefits from updated styling and refreshed technology to improve its overall appeal to families.
Advanced aids like the Navigator’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist
Modern towing is no longer just about raw pulling power; it is increasingly defined by the technology that makes maneuvering easier. Luxury manufacturers are leaning heavily into driver-assist features to mitigate the difficulty of handling large trailers.
The Lincoln Navigator , for instance, utilizes its powerful turbocharged V6 to reach an 8,700-pound capacity when fitted with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package. Beyond power, the Navigator offers the Pro Trailer Backup Assist, a system that uses a control knob to help drivers steer their trailers while reversing. This focus on ease of use is a growing trend among premium brands looking to attract lifestyle-oriented buyers.
The unknown range penalty for the 750-horsepower Escalade IQ
The introduction of the Cadillac Escalade IQ represents a major milestone for electric towing, but it also introduces significant variables for the consumer.. This flagship all-electric SUV produces a massive 750 horsepower and features a 55-inch digital dashboard, yet its ability to maintain efficiency while hauling is still a point of speculation.
While the EPA estimates the Escalade IQ can travel up to 460 miles on a single charge, the report notes that towing a heavy trailer can significantly reduce an EV's range. However, the specific extent of this reduction remains unverified. it is currently unknown exactly how many miles a driver might lose when pulling an 8,000-pound load, or how frequently charging stops will be required during long-distance hauls with a trailer attached.
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