Explore the best cars for towing small trailers and boats, offering strength, stability, and reliability for smooth hauling.
Introduction
Towing is no longer just for pickup trucks and commercial vehicles. Today’s latest crossover SUV generation is getting better at towing small trailers, boats and campers all without losing the looks fuel economy or ease of use of everyday crossover vehicles. For those of you who are who just find themselves unable to breathe during weekend save ums with their jet ski, fishing boat or some new age teardrop camper behind them you choose a vehicle based on how much you tow how stable you are while going 65 and how reliable it is.
Best Cars for Towing Small Trailers and Boats
2025 Ford Explorer
MAX TOWING CAPACITY: 5,600 lbs.
Why It is Great:
The Ford Explorer is still among the best midsize SUVs for towing given its rear wheel drive based architecture and optional Class III Trailer Tow Package. With the potent 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine it is a powerhouse and smooth long distance highway cruiser. Features like trailer sway control and optional all wheel drive provide peace of mind whether you are towing a 3,000 pound boat or a camping trailer.
2025 Toyota 4Runner
Max Tow: 5,000 lbs
Why It’s Great:
This solid body on frame SUV long has been a favorite of outdoor types. With its naturally aspirated V6 it is nearly as reliable as a rock and just as durable and its considerable ground clearance and optional four wheel drive make it the perfect vehicle for launching a boat at aggressive boat ramps or venturing into off grid lands with a small trailer in tow. Indoors it is not the freshest looking but it is built to last.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Max Towing Capacity: 6,200 pounds, 7,200 pounds
Why It is Great:
The Grand Cherokee rides smoothly and offers excellent low end towing capability when equipped with V8 engines. Quadra-Trac II 4WD system of Jeep provides excellent traction during towing on wet rugged surfaces. With features like air suspension and blind spot monitoring with trailer detection it delivers both performance and safety.
2025 Subaru Ascent
Max Tow Rating: 5,000 lbs
Why It is Great:
If you are looking for a family friendly crossover that is capable of towing a small trailer or lightweight boat the Subaru Ascent is worth a look. The Ascent is offered with all wheel drive and it has Subaru’s Eye Sight safety suite. It is a practical comfortable choice that is highly reliable and offers strong value for the money.
2025 Chevrolet Traverse
Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Why It is Great:
Redesigned for 2025 the Chevrolet Traverse has a more aggressive appearance as well as better towing capabilities. It has an easy to use torque laden 2.5L turbocharged engine and a dialed suspension and the towing package includes heavy duty cooling as well as hitch guidance to help with quick and easy trailer hook ups.
2025 Kia Telluride
Max Tow Rating: 5,500
Why It is Great:
The Telluride is a blend of luxury, room and respectable towing muscle. The 3.8L V6 has smooth power delivery and the available towing package also brings self leveling rear suspension and trailer sway control. It is one of the most fashionable and forward leaning options in its class.
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Key Towing Features to Consider
Here are couple options to consider when choosing a tow vehicle:
Towing Package: Get the manufacturers towing package if it is available which usually includes additional cooling receiver hitches with wiring and sway control.
Trailer Sway Control: Works to keep the vehicle and trailer aligned even when the wind is gusting or a curve is approaching.
Trailer Brake Controller: Necessary for successful braking with a larger trailer or when moving down hill.
Final Thoughts
You do not always have to drive a full size truck to tow a small trailer or boat. Many of the 2025 SUVs provide all the towing capacity you’ll ever need the latest in safety and modern technology and can still be utilized as your every day driver. Whether you are going to the campground or putting in your fishing boat for the weekend the right SUV can make that trip a whole lot more comfortable, safer and fun.