As the sun sets behind the mountains and the open road stretches out before you, you can’t help but feel the thrill of adventure in your bones. You’ve got your trusty trailer hitched up to your small SUV and you’re ready to explore the great unknown.
But not all small SUVs are created equal, especially when it comes to towing capacity. So, to help you on your quest for the perfect road trip companion, we’ve scoured the market for the best small SUVs with the towing power to get you where you want to go, no matter the terrain or weather.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time nomad, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best small SUV with towing capacity. So buckle up and get ready to hit the road with confidence, knowing you’ve got the best of the best behind you.
Why Are SUVs Everyone’s Favorite?
SUVs, or Sport Utility Vehicles, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to a combination of factors.
Firstly, SUVs offer a sense of security and safety to drivers and passengers. Due to their larger size and higher ground clearance, SUVs offer better visibility on the road and can provide a sense of protection in the event of a collision. Additionally, many SUVs come equipped with advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning systems, which can further enhance the safety of the vehicle.
Secondly, SUVs are versatile vehicles that can be used for a variety of purposes. They offer ample space for passengers and cargo, making them ideal for families, road trips, and outdoor adventures. They also have the ability to tow heavy loads, which makes them a popular choice for people who need to haul trailers, boats, or other large items.
Thirdly, many SUVs now come with advanced technology features which make them more attractive to consumers who want the latest and greatest in automotive technology.
Lastly, SUVs are seen as a status symbol by many consumers. Their larger size and bold styling can make a statement on the road and can signal to others that the driver values comfort, luxury, and utility.
Overall, the combination of safety, versatility, technology, and status has contributed to the popularity of SUVs in today’s market.
The Need of an SUV With Towing Capacity
There are several reasons why someone might need an SUV with towing capacity.
- An SUV with towing capacity can be used to haul recreational equipment such as boats, jet skis, or trailers. This can make it easier to transport these items to and from the desired location, without having to rely on rental or storage services.
- An SUV with towing capacity can be useful for people who need to transport heavy or bulky items for work or home projects. For example, an SUV with towing capacity can be used to haul large furniture, construction materials, or landscaping equipment.
- An SUV with towing capacity can provide added versatility for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities. With the ability to tow a trailer or camper, an SUV can provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home while on the road.
Overall, an SUV with towing capacity can provide added utility and convenience for people who need to transport heavy or bulky items for work or recreation. It can also open up new possibilities for outdoor adventures and travel.
How Much Engine Power is Required For Towing Purpose?
The amount of engine power required for towing depends on several factors, including the weight of the trailer, the weight of the cargo being towed, and the terrain being traversed. In general, a more powerful engine will be able to handle heavier loads and steeper inclines, but there is no fixed horsepower or torque requirement for towing.
Instead, it is important to consider the vehicle’s towing capacity, which is the maximum weight that the vehicle is designed to tow safely. The towing capacity is determined by several factors, including the vehicle’s chassis, suspension, brakes, and transmission.
When selecting a vehicle for towing, it is important to choose one with a towing capacity that exceeds the weight of the trailer and cargo being towed. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the vehicle’s engine and transmission are able to handle the added stress of towing, as excessive strain can lead to damage or failure.
In general, larger and more powerful vehicles, such as trucks and full-size SUVs, are better suited for towing heavier loads. However, many smaller SUVs, like the ones we have listed below, and crossover vehicles also offer respectable towing capacity, making them a viable option for towing small trailers and boats.
7 Best Small SUVs with Towing Capacity
Here are 7 of the best small SUVs with towing capacity:
Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been in production since 1974. It has gone through several generations and redesigns over the years, but has maintained its reputation as a rugged and capable off-road vehicle.
One of the standout features of the Jeep Cherokee is its impressive towing capacity, which is up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it a popular choice for people who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
The Jeep Cherokee is available with a range of engine options, including a 2.4L four-cylinder engine and a 3.2L V6 engine. The V6 engine is recommended for towing, as it provides more power and torque. The Cherokee also comes with a choice of two 4-wheel drive systems, which can enhance its off-road capabilities.
Jeep Cherokee is a versatile SUV that offers impressive towing capacity and rugged off-road capabilities, making it a good choice for adventurous drivers who need to haul heavy loads.
- Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a popular compact SUV that is known for its sleek design, sporty handling, and impressive fuel efficiency. It has been in production since 2012 and has gained a strong following among drivers who value style and performance.
Despite its compact size, the Mazda CX-5 has a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it a good option for towing small trailers or boats, or for transporting other heavy cargo.
The Mazda CX-5 is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine. The turbocharged engine provides more power and torque, which can be helpful when towing. The CX-5 also offers all-wheel drive as an option, which can improve its stability and handling in adverse weather conditions.
The Mazda CX-5 is a well-rounded SUV that offers a balance of style, performance, and practicality. Its modest towing capacity may not suit everyone’s needs, but it is a good option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and handling over towing power.
- Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a rugged crossover SUV that is known for its all-wheel drive capability, versatile cargo space, and impressive towing capacity.
One of the standout features of the Subaru Outback is its towing capacity, which can reach up to 2,700 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it a good option for towing small trailers, boats, or other heavy loads. The Outback also offers a range of towing accessories such as a hitch and trailer brake controller, which can help improve towing performance.
Under the hood, the Subaru Outback comes with a choice of two engines: a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine. Both engines provide ample power and torque for towing, and the turbocharged engine is recommended for those who plan to tow heavier loads.
It is a good choice for drivers who need a vehicle that can handle both their daily commute and their weekend adventures.
- Ford Escape
Ford Escape has been in production since 2000 and has undergone several redesigns over the years to become a refined and capable SUV.
One of the features that make the Ford Escape stand out is its towing capacity, which can reach up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Under the hood, the Ford Escape comes with a choice of three engines: a 1.5L three-cylinder engine, a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, and a hybrid engine. The 2.0L engine is recommended for those who plan to tow, as it provides more power and torque. The Escape also offers all-wheel drive as an option, which can improve its handling in adverse conditions.
- Toyota RAV4
The RAV4’s towing performance is supported by its choice of engines and drivetrain options. The standard engine is a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that provides 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough power for most towing applications. The RAV4 also offers an optional hybrid powertrain that provides a combined output of 219 horsepower, which can improve fuel efficiency while still providing adequate power for towing.
Additionally, the RAV4 offers a range of towing accessories such as a trailer hitch, trailer sway control, and a tow prep package, which can improve its towing performance and handling.
- Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV known for its practicality, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It has been in production since 1995 and has evolved over the years.
When it comes to towing, the Honda CR-V is not the most powerful SUV in its class, but it can still handle light towing duties. The CR-V has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, which is enough to tow small trailers or boats. However, it’s important to note that the CR-V’s towing capacity can vary depending on the specific model and equipment.
Under the hood, the Honda CR-V comes with a choice of two engines: a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a hybrid engine. The turbocharged engine provides 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, which is enough power for most driving situations. The hybrid engine, on the other hand, provides better fuel efficiency and slightly more power with a combined output of 212 horsepower.
- Hyundai Tucson
It has been in production since 2004 and has undergone several updates and improvements over the years.
When it comes to towing, the Hyundai Tucson is capable of towing up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough to tow small and light loads. The Tucson’s towing capacity can vary depending on the specific model and equipment, so it’s important to check the owner’s manual for details.
The Tucson comes with a choice of two engines: a 2.0L four-cylinder engine and a 2.4L four-cylinder engine. The 2.0L engine provides 161 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.4L engine provides 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and come standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight an automobile can tow behind it safely and effectively. It is determined by the vehicle’s design, including the strength of its chassis, suspension, and brakes. The vehicle’s engine power and transmission type also play a role in determining towing capacity.
Manufacturers typically provide a maximum towing capacity rating for each SUV model based on these factors, and it is important for vehicle owners to adhere to this rating to ensure safe towing.
The towing capacity of an SUV affects its performance and handling in a number of ways. The additional weight of a trailer or other load can put added strain on the engine, suspension, and brakes, which can cause the SUV to slow down, accelerate more slowly, and have reduced maneuverability. The added weight can also affect the SUV’s fuel economy, and it may cause the vehicle to be more difficult to stop or steer.
Additionally, the length and weight of the load may affect the SUV’s center of gravity, which can also impact handling and stability. It is important for SUV owners to choose a load that falls within their vehicle’s recommended towing capacity to ensure safe and stable handling.
The Bottom Line
If you’re in the market for a small SUV with towing capacity, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Whether you need to tow a small boat, trailer, or other light loads, these 7 SUVs which we have listed above offer the capability and versatility you need while still providing the comfort, convenience, and modern features that you expect from a modern vehicle.
It’s important to keep in mind that towing capacity can vary depending on the specific model, trim level, and equipment, so it’s always recommended to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual and follow proper towing guidelines to ensure safe and efficient towing.
Ultimately, the best small SUV with towing capacity for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. By doing your research, test-driving different models, and consulting with a trusted dealer or mechanic, you can find the right SUV that will meet your towing needs and provide a reliable and enjoyable driving experience for years to come.
