Best trucks for towing: The trucks of 2023 continue to live up to their image as brutal, with maximum tow ratings of up to 14,000 pounds. Most owners would never transport that much. Thus, some well-known vehicles may not be the toughest. Families like roomy crew cabs and four-wheel drive are functional when it snows or at the boat launch. However, four doors and transfer cases add weight, which lowers the towing capability.
As a result, finding the ideal vehicle for towing requires balancing usefulness and necessity. These trucks, which include a mix of 2023 and 2022 models, are the best for towing. Our list order considers tow ratings throughout each truck’s entire lineup, combined weight ratings, and available trailering aid systems, even though the numerical scores indicate each truck’s overall qualities as a vehicle.
2023 Ford F-150
Price Starting From $34,085
Heavy-duty vehicles used only to pull 14,000 pounds, but starting in 2023, the Ford F-150 can accomplish the same. The maximum weight that the base models can tow is 8,200 pounds. Still, more than 130 other axle, body, and engine configurations (including a hybrid powertrain) are available, many of which are powerful towing vehicles. All employ a 10-speed automatic gearbox, although several gear ratios and towing improvements are available, making it more straightforward to accelerate and manage with a trailer in tow. The average maximum towing capacity for all variants is slightly under 9,860 pounds. Thus, most popular models should be able to tote that weight. Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which uses the vehicle’s sensors to undertake labor-intensive tasks while backing up with a trailer, is another helpful option for the truck.
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Price Starting From $35,600
For 2022, the Silverado underwent considerable revisions, but it still sports the second-highest maximum towing rating in the class at 13,300 pounds when correctly outfitted. Nevertheless, several models have weight ratings between 9,400 and 9,800 pounds. Due to enhancements in the Silverado diesel’s towing capability, the average maximum rating has increased to almost 10,300 pounds line-wide. Despite its modest initial acceleration and excellent towing capacity, the 3.0-liter turbodiesel six is desirable. Modern trailering systems with up to 15 camera views that keep drivers well-informed of what is happening behind them are integral to the lengthy choices list.
2023 GMC Sierra 1500
Price Starting From $36,400
The Sierra (a near sibling of the Chevy Silverado) significantly increased towing capability in 2022 due to a midyear modification. The new 13,200-pound tow capacity and revised cabin significantly increase Sierra’s competitiveness. Still, the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 continue to lead this class, and the Toyota Tundra, which will be reintroduced in 2022, is again in the top tier.
Although the Sierra is a little more expensive than the Silverado, it is also advertised as more abundant, and in fact, the higher-end Sierras are pretty well-liked. Additionally, the Sierra (and Silverado) provide two features that the other trucks either don’t have now or soon won’t: GM’s Super Cruise and a powerful diesel. Thanks to its diesel, the Sierra can travel a longer distance and still get up to 26 mpg combined; three other powertrains are available, including two well-known V8s and a four-cylinder turbo. The base has a 9.500-pound towing capacity.
The superb optional trailer visibility system, a significant safety benefit, Sierra’s six-way multi-function tailgate, and its extensive lineup of engines—the greatest of which are a 6.2-liter V8 and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six—are all shared by the Silverado. We’ll update this list when the 2022 Sierra becomes available.
2023 Ram 1500
Price Starting From $36,820
The most upscale pickup is the Ram 1500, which has a comfortable ride and an opulent, technologically advanced interior. Additionally, it receives top marks in crash tests. It is tough to beat overall, but it can’t haul as much as its Ford and Chevy competitors, and the Toyota Tundra is currently right behind them. With the right accessories, the Ram can tow up to 12,750 pounds with its Hemi V8 or 12,560 with the economical optional EcoDiesel V6, but only in quad cab configuration. The line-wide average, however, drops to 9,080 pounds due to the base model gas V6s’ lower tow ratings than particular midsize trucks.
When properly equipped, the Ram can tow up to 12,750 pounds with the V8 or 12,560 pounds with the Diesel, but only in Quad Cab configuration (Crew Cabs lose some capacity due to their higher weights). This is slightly less than Ford or Chevy but somewhat more than Toyota.ns if you often tow are the V8 or the Diesel. A surround-view camera system with reverse guiding is also part of Ram’s tech package, which is helpful while navigating.
2023 Toyota Tundra
Price Starting From $36,965
Although the Tundra has a lot of torque, it can only tow a maximum of 12,000 pounds when fully outfitted, less than all three domestic competitors. Because it is only available in the larger crew-cab variant, the hybrid’s weight limit is 11,330 pounds. Despite the additional weight of its battery, it still has a modest advantage over the crew cab that runs purely on gas. The Tundra hauled a 26-foot, 7,000-pound trailer up hills and down dales without incident throughout our testing, and the optional air shocks added noticeably to the trailer’s stability.
The Tundra is a respectable competitor within the fiercely competitive half-ton truck sector thanks to its superb towing manners and competitive engine. It outperforms its predecessor in the gas economy and is stylish, spacious, and strong. The Tundra’s straightforwardness, durable record, and numerous safety-tech features will appeal to conventional truck buyers and safety-conscious customers, even though it is still behind rivals in essential truck capacity and lacks the interior refinement of some of Detroit’s newest trucks.
2022 Rivian R1T
Price Starting From $67,500
This midsize hauler has a hefty curb weight of roughly 7,150 pounds, often reserved for enormous, heavy-duty versions rather than compact transporters like it. However, some of that weight is due to a large 135 kWh battery pack. The Rivian’s outstanding 11,000-pound towing capability puts it on par with noticeably bigger half-ton trucks, but its range is reduced while hauling a heavy load. The R1T has a theoretical range of 314 miles; a variant with an even greater range is anticipated this year. The most significant negatives are the unknown status of the carmaker and unanswered problems about hauling capacity.
2023 Ram 1500 Classic
Price Starting From $30,110
The Ram 1500 Classic is simply the Ram 1500 from the previous generation offered alongside the current one at a discount in a few restricted variants, including a conventional cab. The selection has been condensed, and work vehicles are its main emphasis. When fully outfitted with the V8 engine and its 410 pound-feet of torque, the vehicle can tow up to 10,620 pounds. Be aware that the Express, Tradesman, and Warlock all have basic V6 versions with starting towing capacities of 4,940 and 4,560 pounds, respectively. The Classic’s interior is essential, and there are no contemporary driver-assist features, but it’s a handy vehicle at a reasonable price.
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
Price Starting From $59,794
The Ford F-150 Lightning, an electric version of America’s longtime favorite truck, can do almost everything its gas-powered brothers do and, in most situations, does it better. While just as extensive, practical, and comfortable as a conventional F-150, it is quicker, quieter, smoother, and has better handles. Compared to the F-150 Hybrid, extended-range variants can tow 10,000 pounds, accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and travel more than 300 miles on a single charge.
The drawback: Towing significantly reduces the available space. The Lightning is the only option if you want a conventional full-size pickup with electric power; it is also decent. As a midsize lifestyle vehicle, the Rivian R1T succeeds, while the Hummer EV is exceptional. The Lightning is a better, more effective half-ton transporter made in the United States. Chevy Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, and Ram EV won’t be available until 2024; Ram EV might take longer.
2023 Nissan Titan
Price Starting From $39,700
When properly outfitted, the Titan can pull 9,323 pounds, falling short of other competitors by tens of thousands. It’s a quiet, comfortable truck with a great suite of driver assistance equipment, but it doesn’t have the same power as its Detroit competitors and rides rough when empty. The Titan is still a workhorse, so customers searching for a work truck without frills could find it a good deal. Consider the Titan XD’s 11,033-pound towing capability for a Nissan with more oomph.
Ram1500TRX 2022
Price Starting From $78,7902
The Ram TRX is today’s largest, nastiest, and loudest factory-direct extreme truck. Fortunately, it builds on the sophistication, capacity, and ease of use of its Ram 1500 parent vehicle by being a simple truck to operate daily. Even though the TRX is performance-optimized, it can tow up to 8,220 pounds, which helps transport even more severe off-road vehicles to the desert. The negative? It’s never encountered a gas station it couldn’t withstand. Without a trailer, the TRX only gets 12 combined mpg, so expect to spend a lot at the pump for fun.
2022 GMC Canyon
Price Starting From $26,800
The Canyon and the Chevrolet Colorado have the highest tow ratings among midsize trucks despite only being midsize trucks, with a combined 7,700 pounds. Their economical 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, which achieves up to 23 mpg combined in the rear-wheel drive version, is responsible for that rating. The 3.6-liter V6 engine in the Canyon gives the vehicle a 7,000-pound towing capacity. Although the V6 has considerable power, it has poor fuel efficiency.
The diesel variant costs over $4,000 more than V6 vehicles while increasing towing capability. The Canyon has a greater towing capacity than the entry-level full-size trucks but falls short of the big boys. It’s still an excellent balance of size and skill. The Chevrolet Colorado has the same capabilities in towing at a cheaper cost.
2022 Chevrolet Colorado
Price Starting From $25,735
The Chevrolet Colorado, a near relative of the GMC Canyon, has the same 7,700-pound maximum towing capacity as all other midsize vehicles. The Canyon has a fuel-efficient 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. It is strong and can get up to 23 mpg combined in rear-wheel drive configuration, which is admirably efficient for a midsize truck with an almost full-size towing capacity. The towing capacity of gasoline engines exceeds that of Frontier or Tacoma, ranging from 3,500 to 7,000 pounds.
The vehicle has a 7,000-pound tow capacity with the optional 3.6-liter V6, but the typical rating is lower since the standard model’s four-cylinder isn’t designed for towing. Colorado has a somewhat lower price than Canyon and a more extreme off-road variation, the ZR2, although both vehicles will have new iterations starting with the 2023 model year. Unfortunately, the Diesel failed to pass the new design. Thus, two ratings will be lowered.
2022 Jeep Gladiator
Price Starting From $37,170
Few pickups can rival the Gladiator’s off-road prowess, and its design is as rugged as its features, which include the ability to tow. With a relatively low axle ratio, the Gladiator can tow up to 7,700 pounds at maximum capacity. It may reduce fuel efficiency but elevates it to the same level as the best midsize GMC and Chevy models. The economic EcoDiesel V6 variants and many higher-end models have tow ratings in the 6,000 to 6,500-pound range, making them capable of pulling light campers, small boats, or even light off-road vehicles. However, the cheapest models have major capacity issues. Your towing capacity will decrease if you choose the manual gearbox and fall to 4,500 pounds.
Ford Ranger 2022
Starting with a price of $25,980
The Ranger does a great job of maintaining the required level of compactness while maintaining the usefulness and capacity necessary for a truck. The optional towing package ($475) delivers the advantages of reliable safety features, good light off-roading capabilities, and a tow rating of 7,500 pounds. It can pull a heavy trailer for a tiny vehicle but lacks broad towing mirrors and a trailer brake controller. Additionally, it has a dated cabin and is a bit louder inside than comparable trucks. The Ranger has only seen modest aesthetic upgrades and more color options since 2001.
2023 Toyota Tacoma
Price Starting From $27,250
An excellent vehicle for work or amusement is the Tacoma. It boasts several technological features, including effective standard driver-assist systems, and is offered in various configurations to suit multiple purchasers. On all counts, the standard four-cylinder engine falls short. Driving the vehicle to highway speeds takes tremendous work and struggles with in-town journeys.
The maximum weight of the four they towed was 3,500 pounds, although trucks with V6 engines can tow up to 6,800 pounds. The V6 is a far superior option for the vehicle and provides more powerful acceleration. The maximum weight for the off-road TRD Pro is 6,400 pounds. Driving a Tacoma is also quite truck-like. Overall, the powertrains offered by Tacoma’s rivals are more advanced and effective.
2023 Nissan Frontier
Price Starting From $29,190
The Nissan Frontier made this list after its makeover from the previous year. It is still more silent, competent, and comfortable as of 2023 than before the overhaul. The highest power in its class is provided by a standard 310 horsepower V6, which has a payload capability of up to 1,610 pounds. The Frontier has a maximum trailer weight capacity of 6,720 pounds. However, the majority of popular models are closer to 6,400 pounds.
That’s much more than the Honda Ridgeline or Hyundai Santa Cruz, which fall short of the Frontier’s 6,500-pound towing limit. However, it is less than the competition from Jeep or Ford. Even though the rear seat is still small, the design has an attractive, updated appearance and a modernized interior. It’s a competent mover and the ideal off-road vehicle in PRO-4X configuration. However, that power doesn’t convert to a massive towing capacity, and the fuel-guzzling Frontier also falls short of specific competitors in terms of basic features.
FAQS
Determine your trailering requirements and familiarize yourself with the accompanying terms before visiting the dealership.
What is the Best Truck to Use for Towing?
We’ve concentrated on the finest full-size pickups and midsize vehicles for towing loads between 6,000 and 13,000 pounds. A light-duty midsize car will do if you’re merely towing kayaks, equipment trailers, or tiny campers, but a full-size truck will be needed if you’re pulling bigger campers, car trailers, or boats. A heavy-duty vehicle would be a better option if you often need to haul more than 13,000 pounds.
What are Axle Ratios?
Ratings for maximum towing capacity often refer to numerically higher gear ratios. For instance, the Ram 1500 Classic can tow 10,620 pounds with a 3.92:1 axle ratio, yet the exact vehicle can only pull 8,510 pounds with a 3.21:1 axle. A more significant number indicates that more force is applied to each rotation of the driving wheels. This benefits the low-end power required for towing, but your engine will have to work harder when traveling at high speeds on the interstate and will likely get less economy.
What are Payload Capacity and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?
The total weight of a vehicle, including the importance of the car itself and everything within it (including passengers, fuel, and cargo). As the back part of the car supports a trailer’s tongue weight, it also includes its weight. This makes it crucial to be aware of your current load and the tongue weight of any trailers. The GVWR minus the vehicle’s weight, determined by a full fuel tank, is a truck’s payload capacity. A camper’s tongue weight must not exceed the cargo limit.
What exactly is GCWR, or Gross Vehicle Combined Weight Rating?
The combined weight of the vehicle and trailer. The maximum GCWR for the F-150 is a hefty 19,500 pounds, but if you’re hauling extensive equipment in the bed and four passengers, the amount that can be towed will be lowered since the truck already weighs a lot. The GCWR is often listed on manufacturer websites or in owner’s manuals, unlike the GVWR, which may be found on labels attached to a vehicle’s door jambs.
What is Trailer Tongue Weight?
The vehicle supports the trailer’s weight while resting on the tow hitch. The tongue weight generally makes up 10% to 15% of the importance of a trailer. The number of persons and stuff you may load into your vehicle when towing may be restricted since the tongue weight must be considered when calculating the GVWR.
What is a “Half a Ton” Truck?
The terms “half a ton,” “three-quarter ton,” and even “one-ton” pickups are sometimes used to describe trucks. These names have been used for decades to describe the payload capacities of different classes of vehicles. Initial payload ratings for “half-ton” trucks were 1,000 pounds; for “three-quarter ton” trucks, it was 1,500 pounds; and so on. Even though modern vehicles have significantly higher payload ratings, the phrases ultimately gave rise to several truck classes. Current terminology defines “half a ton” vehicles as entry-level full-size trucks like the Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, and Nissan Titan, while “three-quarter ton” and above models are heavy-duty versions like the Ford Super Duty F-150 and Ram 2500, as well as even higher levels.
Which midsize truck is best for towing?
The two midsize pickups with the most excellent tow ratings are the diesel-powered Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, which can pull 7,700 pounds. When fitted with the appropriate axle ratio and its optional EcoDiesel V6, the Jeep Gladiator can tow up to 7,700 pounds. The Ranger’s optional towing kit allows it to pull up to 7,500 pounds. The Ranger will provide the most significant degree at the lowest cost of admission if you’re towing with a work vehicle.
Which family truck is best for towing?
Families cannot utilize single cabs or vehicles with a small extended cab. Thus, crew cabs are the only option. The Ford F-150 has the most selection of towing champions, with the 3.7-liter PowerBoost hybrid SuperCrew likely being the finest of the bunch. The whole family can fit in the spacious cab, which gets respectable gas efficiency for a big truck, and can tow up to 12,500 pounds with the shorter bed while losing just 100 pounds with the extended bed. This liveability is also provided by a few more SuperCrew F-150s. However, they get a lower gas economy. The Ram 1500 offers up to 11,300 pounds of capacity thanks to its 5.7-liter mild hybrid and roomy Crew cab, but Ford still has more.
