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Are you a weekend warrior that doesn’t need to pull a giant camper? Here are eight small SUVs that can tow your jet skis, light campers and more.
Towing Capacity in a Manageable Size
Towing is an activity that requires a vehicle designed, at least in part, with it in mind. It unlocks a new way of traveling with cargo and opens the door to more fun. If your weekends are spent moving small utility trailers, light campers, or a small fishing boat these small SUVs are just what you are looking for.
Oftentimes, marketing tells you that only the biggest trucks and SUVs can tow though. We’re here to put that myth to bed. Here are eight compact and mid-size SUVs that can tow at least 3,500 pounds. In fact, they’re better to drive than those big brooding trucks and SUVs that get all the attention.
2024 Mazda CX-50 – 3,500 lbs
We’ll kick things off with probably the best driver’s car in the bunch. The CX-50 is not only great on the road but it’s surprisingly capable when the road runs out. Having driven it up and down dirt hills far too steep for most of the cars on this list, we can say confidently that it’s an all-around performer. It’s also capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds and even has a dedicated tow mode to make that easier.
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe – 4,500 lbs
The new Santa Fe is getting a lot of hype and it’s easy to see why. It’s bigger than before but not gigantic either. It also looks more luxurious inside and out. There’s also a new trim called XRT. It has rugged-looking design cues and comes standard with a 4,500-pound towing capacity. That’s not bad for an SUV that blends practicality with styling the way the Santa Fe does.
2024 Toyota RAV4 – 3,500 lbs
The RAV4 is sort of a tried-and-true undeniable value these days. Now, it’s available in a trim to suit just about anyone. A few of those trims, specifically the Adventure and TRD versions, tow up to 3,500 pounds. The RAV4 also comes with off-road styling and all of the same reliable running gear we’ve come to love over the years. Additionally, the RAV4 offers good fuel economy, a classy cabin, and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
2024 Kia Sorento – 4,000 lbs
The market for mid-sized SUVs is huge and sometimes the Sorento gets overlooked. It’s still a great choice though thanks to its impressive standard features including an 8-inch infotainment system, LED headlights, and keyless entry. Buyers who want to tow need to add all-wheel drive but once they do they’ll be able to haul up to 3,500 pounds behind them wherever they go. Keep in mind that this little SUV also comes with a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. That’s not too shabby.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek – 3,500 lbs
Considering how small this SUV is, one might be shocked that it can indeed tow up to 3,500 pounds. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive and adaptive LED headlights. That said, buyers will need to specify that they want the Crosstrek Wilderness trim if they want maximum towing capability here. They’ll get more than just towing capacity though. It also comes with all-terrain tires, more ground clearance, and faux leather upholstery.
2024 Kia Telluride – 5,500 lbs
The Telluride is an all-star these days and it deserves its accolades. It’s priced well, is spacious inside, and is well-equipped across the board. The cabin is full of high-end tech and top trims feel downright luxurious. A 291 horsepower V6 powers all models and front or all-wheel drive is available. Opt for the latter and this three-row mid-size SUV will go up to 5,500 pounds. Just be sure to add the available trailer wiring harness and tow hitch to your order.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee – 6,200 lbs
Like most of the SUVs here, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is multifaceted. Unlike most of them, it’s genuinely very capable off-road. Jeep sells this SUV with three different 4WD systems to suit the buyer. On top of all that, it’s the most capable here in terms of towing. Equip it right and it’ll tow up to 7,200 pounds. That’s as much if not more than many mid-sized pickup trucks. Somehow it also manages to be the best driving Jeep we’ve ever tested.
2024 Honda Pilot – 5,000 lbs
It’s impossible to count out the very good Honda Pilot on this list. It tows up to 5,000 pounds while offering one of the most pragmatic choices on the market. Front-wheel drive versions still tow up to 3,500 pounds too. We love the available Trailsport model, the clever storage spaces in the cabin, and the way it soaks up mile after mile on the highway. It’s not the most engaging vehicle here but if sensible decisions are your thing, you can’t go wrong with the Honda Pilot.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in June 2023 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
