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Several used SUVs can tow a genuine 5,000 pounds or more, but the number on a model’s brochure is only a starting point. The engine, drivetrain, wheelbase, axle ratio, factory tow equipment, payload label and model year determine what a particular vehicle may legally and safely pull.
Among the ten examples below, the Ford Explorer and Volkswagen Atlas reach the 5,000-pound class, while body-on-frame and full-size SUVs such as the Lexus GX, Nissan Armada, Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition can go substantially higher when properly equipped. Always match the trailer to the specific vehicle’s door-jamb label and owner manual before buying.
Used SUVs and their representative maximum tow ratings
These are published maximums for qualifying configurations, not guarantees for every used example. Ratings can change with generation, engine, drivetrain, wheelbase, axle ratio, hitch and trailering package.
| SUV | Representative published maximum | Qualification to check |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 5,000 lb | Ford’s 2026 specification lists this for both the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 and 3.0L EcoBoost V6; older model years and equipment can differ. |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Up to 6,200 lb | Jeep’s cited gas configuration reaches this figure; generation, engine, drivetrain and hitch affect used ratings. |
| Toyota 4Runner | Up to 5,000 lb | The body-on-frame SUV is tow-oriented, but the ceiling still applies only to properly equipped vehicles. |
| Lexus GX | Up to 6,500 lb | Verify generation, factory hitch, payload label and maintenance history. |
| Dodge Durango | Up to 8,700 lb | The cited comparison is for a representative configuration; engine, Tow N Go or equivalent equipment, axle ratio and payload matter. |
| Nissan Armada | Up to 8,500 lb | Nissan’s official page gives this maximum; model year and tow-package content must be confirmed. |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | Up to 8,400 lb | Different generations and powertrains require checking the exact trailering package and payload. |
| GMC Yukon | Up to 7,900 lb | Engine, wheelbase, drivetrain and trailering equipment change the rating; Yukon XL versions also need separate verification. |
| Ford Expedition | Up to 9,300 lb | The cited guide is for a representative configuration; axle, wheelbase, tow package and model year are decisive. |
| Volkswagen Atlas | Up to 5,000 lb | Only properly equipped versions reach the maximum, and a full cabin can consume payload before the tow rating is reached. |
What each SUV means for a used buyer
Ford Explorer
The Explorer is the crossover surprise in this group. Ford’s current specification pairs its cited maximum with either EcoBoost engine, but used shoppers must consult the towing guide for the exact year, trim and drivetrain. Ford says its standard Class III Tow Package includes a Class III hitch receiver, seven-wire harness and four- and seven-pin trailer connectors. An Explorer without the required equipment should not be treated as equivalent to one with the package.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Grand Cherokee’s published capability is tied to a particular gas configuration. A used vehicle may have a different engine, four-wheel-drive system, generation or hitch rating, so use its VIN-specific manual rather than applying the current figure across the nameplate.
Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner’s body-on-frame construction and upright proportions can make it feel more purpose-built for towing than a similarly rated crossover. That does not create extra capacity: the properly equipped vehicle’s stated limit remains the controlling number.
Lexus GX
GX shoppers should inspect the factory hitch, door-jamb payload label and service records together. A high maximum is useful only if the particular generation has the required equipment and enough remaining payload for people, luggage and trailer tongue load.
Dodge Durango
The Durango is unusual among three-row SUVs because a properly specified version can carry a very high tow rating. Confirm the engine, Tow N Go or equivalent package, axle ratio where applicable, hitch rating and payload before comparing a used Durango with a larger body-on-frame SUV.
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Nissan Armada
Nissan highlights an auto-leveling suspension intended to smooth the ride while towing. Used Armada ratings still vary by year and equipment, so verify the tow package and the vehicle-specific manual rather than relying on the badge or a generic listing.
Chevrolet Tahoe
Tahoes span several generations and powertrains. The trailering package, engine and payload label on the actual vehicle determine whether a listing can approach the published maximum.
GMC Yukon
Yukon and Yukon XL ratings can differ with engine, wheelbase, drivetrain and trailering equipment. Compare the door-sticker payload with the loaded trailer’s tongue weight; a large SUV can reach its payload limit before it reaches its advertised tow limit.
Ford Expedition
The Expedition is one of the strongest tow choices in this set, but its rating is configuration-specific. Ford’s towing-guide archive covers model years 1996 to present, which is useful when checking an older truck’s axle, wheelbase and factory package.
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Volkswagen Atlas
The Atlas can surprise family-SUV shoppers with its tow capability. The maximum applies only to properly equipped versions, and passengers plus cargo can leave less payload for trailer tongue weight than the headline number suggests.
Which used SUV can tow 5,000 pounds?
The Explorer, 4Runner and Atlas are the clearest candidates in the 5,000-pound class, provided the individual vehicle has the required equipment. The Grand Cherokee can move beyond that class in qualifying configurations, while the GX, Durango, Armada, Tahoe, Yukon and Expedition offer more headroom when correctly specified.
For a travel trailer, use the trailer’s expected loaded weight rather than its empty or advertised “dry” weight. Include water, propane, batteries, camping gear and every passenger in the calculation. Trailer tongue weight is carried by the SUV and counts against its payload along with occupants and cargo.
Can a Ford Explorer tow a travel trailer?
Yes, a properly equipped Explorer can tow a travel trailer within the maximum listed for that exact configuration. Confirm the factory tow package or an accurately rated replacement, the seven-wire and trailer-brake connections, the door-jamb payload label and the model-year towing guide. Ford’s 2019 Explorer owner-manual guidance states: “Your vehicle may tow a trailer provided the maximum trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed for your vehicle configuration.”
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Ford also warns that exceeding the recommended gross trailer weight can cause engine or transmission damage, loss of vehicle control, rollover and personal injury. That warning makes the vehicle-specific rating more important than a trim name or an online seller’s claim.
How much can a used Nissan Armada tow?
Nissan’s official towing page states a maximum of up to 8,500 pounds for qualifying Armada configurations and describes an auto-leveling suspension for towing. The number is not universal across all used Armadas: check the model year, drivetrain, tow package, hitch rating, payload label and owner manual for the VIN you are considering.
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Factory tow package
A factory tow package can include the receiver, wiring, connector, cooling or control hardware and other equipment used to establish the manufacturer’s rating. If the vehicle’s guide requires a package, do not assume that a bare receiver makes an otherwise identical SUV equivalent. An aftermarket receiver also does not increase the manufacturer’s tow rating, and its year, trim and drivetrain fitment must be verified.
Weight-distributing hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is a separate hitch setup that transfers some hitch load toward the tow vehicle’s front axle and the trailer axles. Whether it is required or permitted depends on the SUV, receiver, trailer and hitch manufacturer. Follow the vehicle owner manual and the trailer and hitch instructions; never use it to exceed the vehicle’s tow rating, payload, receiver rating or tongue-weight limit.
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A used-SUV towing inspection checklist
- Identify the exact configuration. Record the VIN, model year, engine, drivetrain, wheelbase and axle information, then obtain the correct owner manual and towing guide.
- Read the door-jamb label. Use the stated payload and seating information to calculate capacity after passengers, cargo and trailer tongue weight are included.
- Inspect the hitch and wiring. Confirm the receiver is securely mounted, undamaged and rated for the job. Test the four- and seven-pin connectors and look for a functioning trailer-brake provision.
- Check brakes, tires and cooling. Towing adds heat and load, so inspect brake condition, tire age and load rating, cooling-system condition and transmission service history.
- Review maintenance and recalls. Ask for service records and check open recalls by VIN. Missing records are a reason to budget for a professional inspection, not proof that the SUV is unreliable.
- Weigh the actual combination. When possible, use a certified scale with the SUV loaded as it will travel and the trailer loaded for the trip. Compare the measured weights with every applicable limit.
Choosing by trailer size and family needs
Small campers and utility trailers
A properly equipped Explorer, 4Runner or Atlas may fit this use, but payload can be the constraint when all seats are occupied. The deciding check is the loaded combination, not the SUV’s empty curb weight.
Larger travel trailers and boats
The Grand Cherokee and GX provide more published capacity in qualifying configurations, while the Durango, Armada, Tahoe, Yukon and Expedition offer the greatest headroom in this group. Their higher limits still require matching axle, hitch, payload and brake equipment to the trailer.
Three-row family use
Passenger space is not free towing capacity. A full third row, luggage and roof cargo reduce the payload left for tongue weight, so a smaller trailer may be the safe choice even when the brochure’s maximum looks ample.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
