Towing capacity is essential for many SUV owners, as it offers versatility for various adventures and trips. With a higher towing capacity, drivers can easily haul boats, horses, trailers, campers, etc.
In this article, I’ll explore some exceptional SUVs offering high towing capacities without breaking the bank. These vehicles have been selected for their performance, features, and value in the under $40,000 price range.
Please note that some models mentioned in this article may cost more than $40,000, depending on the chosen accessories and trim level.
Table of Contents
Dodge Durango SXT
- Price: $40,140 MSRP for 2023 MY
- Towing Capacity: 6,200 lbs
The Dodge Durango SXT is a versatile and powerful SUV with an impressive towing capacity of 6,200 lbs, making it the top choice among the nine SUVs listed in this article.
This robust capacity is due to its standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that delivers 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifting and efficient power delivery.
The Durango SXT offers a comfortable and spacious cabin with up to seven passengers. Its standard features include a Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, a six-speaker audio system, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The SUV also has keyless entry, a push-button start, and a rearview camera for convenience.
The Dodge Durango is available in 7 trim levels, each offering different specifications and prices. However, the 2023 Durango SXT, which starts at about $40,000 for a 4×2 drivetrain and $42,000 for a 4×4, still boasts a high towing capacity of 6,200 lbs, ranking among the highest in its price range.
Update: Well, for the 2023 model year, the Durango SXT will likely exceed the 40,000 mark. But if you are still interested in the Durango SXT, the used market is your solution. You can find the Durango SXT in the used market at a more affordable price.
Ford Explorer
- Price: $36,760 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,300 lbs
The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV known for its performance, spacious interior, and versatility. With seating up to seven passengers, it offers ample room for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The base engine is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Explorer provides smooth acceleration and responsive handling. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an option.
In terms of towing capacity, the Ford Explorer boasts a standard capacity of 5,300 lbs, making it suitable for towing small to medium-sized trailers, boats, and more.
Some of the key advantages of the Ford Explorer include the following:
- Spacious interior: The Explorer provides comfortable seating for up to seven passengers with generous headroom and legroom throughout the cabin.
- Cargo space: With up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third-row seats are folded, the Explorer offers ample room for luggage, camping gear, and other large items.
- Fuel efficiency: Despite its size and capabilities, the Ford Explorer offers competitive fuel efficiency for its class, allowing drivers to enjoy power and economy.
Hyundai Palisade
- Price: $35,900 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
The Hyundai Palisade combines a powerful engine, balanced ride and handling, ample passenger and cargo space, and a long list of standard features to create an appealing option in the $35,000 price range.
With seating for up to eight passengers, the Palisade is well-suited for families and those needing a versatile and comfortable vehicle.
Under the hood, the Palisade has a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is available.
The Hyundai Palisade offers a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making it capable of handling small-sized trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment.
Some of the key advantages of the Hyundai Palisade including:
- Balanced ride and handling: The Palisade’s suspension system delivers a comfortable ride while maintaining precise handling and stability, resulting in a confident driving experience.
- Lots of passenger and cargo space: With seating for up to eight passengers and up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third-row seats folded, the Palisade offers ample room for passengers and their belongings.
- A long list of standard features: The Palisade has various standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, advanced safety features, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Toyota Highlander
- Price: $36,620 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Toyota Highlander has long been a favorite SUV for families because of its interior and cargo space. It offers spacious seating, a long list of features, a user-friendly infotainment system, a capable engine, generous cargo space, and competitive fuel efficiency. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Highlander is an attractive option for families and those looking for a comfortable and versatile vehicle.
Under the hood, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, the Highlander delivers smooth acceleration and adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising. It’s equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available.
This midsize SUV can tow up to 5,000 lbs, enough for towing jet skis, boats, small trailers, etc. Some of the key advantages of the Toyota Highlander including:
- A long list of features
- User-friendly infotainment system
- Spacious seating
- Generous cargo space
- Competitive fuel efficiency
Subaru Ascent Premium
- Price: $37,995 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
The Subaru Ascent boasts reliability, engine performance, gas mileage, and standard all-wheel drive, making it an appealing option in the under $40,000 price range. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Ascent is well-suited for families and those seeking a comfortable and versatile vehicle.
Under the hood, the Ascent has a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Ascent offers smooth acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
The Subaru Ascent comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in various road conditions, including snow during winter. Its towing capacity is rated at 5,000 lbs, standard in its class.
Some aspects worth appreciating about the Ascent include its spacious interior, well-crafted cabin, ample cargo space, and EyeSight, a driver assistance feature from Subaru that encompasses numerous safety and security features.
Chevrolet Traverse LT
- Price: $38,440 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
The Chevrolet Traverse has a powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing up to 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This power allows the mid-sized SUV to tow up to 5,000 lbs easily.
Featuring a 9-speed automatic transmission, the acceleration is smooth and responsive. Front-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
Besides its robustness, the Traverse is known for its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and comprehensive, user-friendly infotainment system. With the capacity to accommodate up to 8 passengers, depending on the chosen seating configuration, the Traverse is ideal for families.
The Chevrolet Traverse is available in six trim levels, all equipped with the same engine, so the towing capability is more or less consistent across the lineup. Prices vary depending on the features provided.
Kia Telluride
- Price: $35,990 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
Since its introduction, the Kia Telluride has been very well-received and continues to be one of the best SUVs in its class.
The Kia Telluride boasts a stylish exterior, a luxurious and spacious cabin, intuitive infotainment, and smooth ride handling.
Thanks to a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers up to 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Kia Telluride can easily tow up to 5,000 lbs. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option.
Fuel consumption is pretty typical for a midsize SUV, rated at 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Kia offers the Telluride in six trim levels, all equipped with the same engine, so the towing capacity is more or less consistent across the lineup. You don’t have to worry about choosing the wrong one – pick the one that best suits your budget.
Honda Pilot LX AWD
- Price: $39,150 MSRP
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
The Honda Pilot has long been a favorite SUV for many families, and this year, Honda introduced the fully redesigned 2023 Honda Pilot to remain competitive in the midsize SUV segment.
The Honda Pilot offers a comfortable driving experience, a spacious interior, and an expandable cargo area. This latest model features an improved infotainment system compared to the previous generation, as well as comprehensive safety features.
Under the hood, the Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers power smoothly and responsively.
For towing purposes, the Pilot can tow up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with all-wheel drive; with front-wheel drive, it can tow around 3,500 lbs.
Unfortunately, the Pilot is known for being one of the pricey SUVs in its class, with a starting price of around $39,000 for the base version.
Frequently Ask and Question
What Can I Pull with a 5000 Lbs Towing Capacity?
With a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, you can tow various small to medium-sized trailers, including utility trailers, travel trailers, and boat trailers. This capacity allows you to haul recreational equipment such as ATVs, jet skis, or small boats, as well as transport home improvement materials or move personal belongings.
Some smaller campers or travel trailers, typically under 22 feet in length, may also fall within this weight range, allowing for family vacations or weekend getaways.
Remember that when towing, it’s crucial to account for the total weight, including passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment, to avoid exceeding the towing capacity and ensure safe and efficient transportation.
How Much Tow Capacity Do I Really Need?
Determining the towing capacity you need depends on your specific towing requirements and intended usage. Start by identifying the types of trailers, recreational equipment, or cargo you plan to tow regularly.
Research their loaded weights, including passengers and any additional equipment. Adding a buffer of 10-15% to the total weight is always a good idea to account for any unexpected changes or other items.
Also, consider factors such as the terrain you’ll encounter, frequency of towing, and driving conditions, as they may impact your towing needs.
Once you understand your towing requirements, choose a vehicle with a towing capacity that meets or exceeds the calculated weight to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable towing performance.
Can I Exceed Towing Capacity?
No, it’s not advisable to exceed the towing capacity of your vehicle. Exceeding the specified towing capacity can lead to safety hazards, poor handling, increased braking distances, and potential damage to your vehicle’s transmission, suspension, or brakes.
It may also void your vehicle’s warranty and result in legal ramifications if an accident occurs. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s specified towing capacity to ensure safe and responsible towing.
Does Towing Shorten the Life of a Vehicle?
Towing can shorten a vehicle’s life if done improperly or excessively. Frequent towing stresses the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension, increasing wear and tear. However, if you follow the manufacturer’s towing guidelines, maintain your vehicle correctly, and use the appropriate equipment, you can minimize the impact of towing on your vehicle’s lifespan.
Does Towing Waste More Gas?
Yes, towing typically consumes more fuel than driving without a load. The added weight from the towed cargo increases the workload on the engine, leading to higher fuel consumption.
The increased air resistance from towing a trailer or other equipment can also impact your vehicle’s aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
While the actual increase in fuel consumption depends on factors such as the weight of the load, vehicle type, and driving conditions, you can expect a noticeable decrease in fuel economy while towing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dodge Durango SXT stands out as an SUV under $40,000 with the highest towing capacity of 6,200 lbs, making it a top choice for those prioritizing towing capabilities.
Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride also offer strong towing capacities of 5,000 lbs, along with well-equipped interiors and features.
Additionally, Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent are excellent choices, boasting 5,000 lbs of towing capacity and a reputation for good reliability.
These SUVs cater to various preferences, ensuring a suitable option for everyone who seeks a capable and budget-friendly towing vehicle.
