There’s a long list of reasons someone should buy one: driving a whole family of passengers, interior comfort, extra cargo space, and even driving in style with a Cadillac Escalade or Jeep Grand Wagoneer. However, some may also want an SUV with excellent capabilities. Many full-size or large SUVs are great for towing, but here are the best SUVs for towing 8,500 pounds or more, something only models like the Nissan Armada, Dodge Durango, and can do.
The Nissan Armada can tow 8,500 lbs
According to , the SUV can tow up to 8,500 pounds. The publication gave the Armada a score of 7.7 out of 10 for quality, placing it ninth on its list of best-towing SUVs. Still, it’s one of the few options that can pull £8,500 or more. For example, three models up front have less towing capacity than the Nissan model. The GMC Yukon and Yukon XL can tow 8,400 and 7,800 pounds, respectively, while the Chevrolet Suburban can tow 8,300 pounds.
It probably wasn’t on your “best SUVs to tow” bingo card, but here it is. The powerful, sporty model that’s one of the few remaining in the Dodge lineup is also one of the best for towing. iSC claims it can tow up to 8,700 pounds, which beats all but one model. Overall, the reviewer gave it an 8.1 out of 10, beating out all four previously mentioned models. However, despite a better trailer rating, it fell short of the Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Nissan Pathfinder.
Buying a new Durango will cost you between $38,495 and $102,085. We don’t recommend choosing the six-figure option if your primary use is towing. However, a cheaper alternative is buying a used Dodge SUV, which ranges from $23,697 to $51,527 if manufactured within the last three model years. Towing 8,700 pounds means the Durango can tow just about anything, from boats and trailers to a small RV.
The Ford Expedition is the best SUV for towing
Finally, the best SUV for towing is the . Not only does the truck-based full-size SUV have the highest towing score on the list, it also earned the highest overall quality score from iSeeCars. With an 8.6 out of 10, the full-size SUV is the best towing option on the list. Additionally, the Expedition offers an impressive towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, which also tops the list. Unfortunately, the Ford SUV is expensive in its highest trims and must be well equipped to unlock maximum towing capabilities.
According to iSC, a new Expedition costs between $50,500 and $69,775, while a used three-year-old model usually costs between $34,742 and $55,989. Overall, a used Expedition is an excellent value for anyone requiring a family SUV that can tow. Remember, it’s not just horsepower as the high-end SUV is luxurious on the inside. Like many other full-size models, the more expensive Expeditions are nearly full-featured.
Trailer of £8,500 or more
What are the best SUVs for towing 8,500 pounds or more? Bottom line, it’s the best option out there for a few reasons. It offers plenty of cabin space for passengers and cargo and is a high-quality vehicle with the largest towing capacity in the iSC list. Also, Nissan Armada and Dodge Durango are great alternatives for towing a lot of weight. While the two falter in overall quality, the towing capacity is undeniable and beats nearly all competitors.
