13 Best Trucks for Towing

August 11, 2020

1/16 SLIDES © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

Towing capacity is a major reason many people decide to put a pickup truck in their garage or driveway. Thanks to their rugged builds and powerful engines, a compact or full-size truck is an ideal traveling companion when hauling boats, motorbikes, jet skis, or camping gear.

For industrial-grade jobs that require tens of thousands of pounds of towing capacity, truck shoppers gravitate towards heavy-duty versions of the Ford F-150 , Chevrolet Silverado , Nissan Titan , or Ram pickups . Yet, for many people, these massive machines are towing overkill for more everyday needs.

We’ve placed every pickup truck that’s in our rankings in descending order based off of its towing capacity. So read on to see which truck tows the most, and who lags behind.

Follow MSN Autos on Facebook and Twitter

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

2/16 SLIDES © American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

2020 Honda Ridgeline

Max Towing: 5,000 lbs | $33,900 | USN Overall Score: 8.3/10

The Ridgeline comes in last place in terms of total towing capacity. However, many people might prefer the car-like driving manners of this Honda pickup. Few trucks are as comfortable and composed as the Ridgeline, or feature such user-friendly cabins. It also comes with a long list of standard active safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and more.

While the 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 delivers enough grunt to get you down the road smoothly, numbers don’t lie, this Honda trails all others when it comes to towing capacity. Still, the power from the Ridgeline’s V6 helps this truck to not feel out of its depth or overburdened when towing its 5,000 pound maximum.

Research the Honda Ridgeline on MSN Autos

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

3/16 SLIDES © Nissan North America, Inc.

2019 Nissan Frontier

Max Towing: 6,720 lbs | $25,050 | USN Overall Score: 7.2/10

The Frontier is the compact pickup that time forgot. That’s because this basic truck has not seen a redesign since the 2005 model year. In that time, the Frontier’s direct competition has undergone at least one or two complete redesigns.

Still, the Frontier is a bargain and is presently the least expensive pickup truck on the market. That will net you only a weak 152-horsepower base four-cylinder. For maximum towing, upgrade to the available King Cab SV trim, fitted with optional 261-horsepower V6. In its rear-wheel-drive format, equipped with a five-speed automatic and Class IV hitch, you’ll get the full 6,720 pound potential. A completely new Frontier is scheduled to debut for the 2021 model year, though it’s expected to be priced significantly higher than the current version.

Research the Nissan Frontier on MSN Autos | Find a Nissan Frontier near you

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

4/16 SLIDES © Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

2020 Toyota Tacoma

Max Towing: 6,800 lbs | $28,310 | USN Overall Score: 7.4/10

The Tacoma is recognized as being a champion of off-road driving. This compact pickup is available with plenty of hardware meant to tackle rutted roads and rocky terrain. It’s not bad at towing, either. When properly equipped, the Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds.

Of course, let’s not forget that’s hundreds less than rivals from Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC. Like the Nissan Frontier , the Tacoma’s base four-cylinder is best avoided. Stick with the optional 3.5-liter V6 that offers a total of 278 horsepower and can be had in either a rear- or four-wheel-drive format. The model for maximum towing is the Access Cab SR trim in rear-wheel drive format and equipped with the V6. Towing accessories include a Class IV hitch, automatic transmission cooler, engine oil cooler, power steering cooler, and trailer sway control.

Research the Toyota Tacoma on MSN Autos | Find a Tacoma close by

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Slideshow continues on the next slide

5/16 SLIDES © Ford Motor Company

2020 Ford Ranger

Max Towing: 7,500 lbs | $24,110 | USN Overall Score: 7.5/10

After being absent for a number of years, the Ranger pickup has finally returned to the Ford lineup . There is only one powertrain being offered, but it’s a good one. The Ranger’s turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder has plenty of low-end torque and comes fitted to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.

While the cabin has some cheap looking materials used here and there, this Ford is comfortable, roomy, and has a towing capacity that’s just shy of segment leaders. The top dog for towing in the Ranger lineup is the SuperCab trim in rear-wheel drive format. Tow-friendly hardware include a Two/Haul mode for the transmission, four-pin wiring, and trailer sway control.

Research the Ford Ranger on MSN Autos

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

6/16 SLIDES © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

2020 Jeep Gladiator

Max Towing: 7,650 lbs | $33,545 | USN Overall Score: TBD

Another new entry to the pickup truck field, the Jeep Gladiator combines an open-air cargo bed with the brand’s iconic square-edged design. Powering the Gladiator is a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 285 horsepower and can be had with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic.

Adventure lovers will be drawn to the long list of off-roading equipment, not to mention the go-anywhere Rubicon trim level. Keep in mind, you get the most in terms of total towing capacity by sticking with the entry-level Sport and Sport S trim and adding the Max Tow Package.

Research the Jeep Gladiator on MSN Autos

This includes a Class IV receiver, heavy-duty engine cooling, and heavy front and rear axles.

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

7/16 SLIDES © General Motors

2020 Chevrolet Colorado

Max Towing: 7,700 lbs | $36,615 | USN Overall Score: 7.1/10

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to what’s available under the hood of the Chevrolet Colorado . Three engines are offered, though it’s the optional turbodiesel that rules the roost when it comes to towing capability. Fitted with this 2.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that’s coupled to a six-speed automatic, the diesel delivers 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This motor delivers not only the best towing capacity found in a compact pickup, it’s the Colorado’s most fuel-efficient motor too.

In its rear-wheel-drive format, the turbodiesel returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the highway. To access the diesel engine means stepping up to the LT trim level. Included is the Trailering Package, which adds features like an automatic locking rear differential, a two-inch receiver hitch with four- and seven-pin connector, seven-wire electric harness and seven-pin sealed connector.

Research the Chevrolet Colorado on MSN Autos

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

8/16 SLIDES © General Motors

2020 GMC Canyon

Max Towing: 7,700 lbs | $37,805 | USN Overall Score: 7.3/10

Sharing the same chassis, engine, and transmission as the Colorado , the mechanically-identical GMC Canyon serves up the same total towing capacity. Like the Colorado, the class-leading 7,700 pound rating comes by choosing the 181-horsepower 2.8-liter turbo diesel four-cylinder engine. This means opting for the SLE trim level, one step above the base model. With the optional diesel, you get the same Trailering Package found on the Chevy Colorado, along with a Tow/Haul mode for the automatic transmission. This raises or lowers shift points, depending on how much you’re hauling, and uses engine compression to assist with braking.

Also like its Chevy twin, the Canyon features responsive handling and a comfortable cabin with a very intuitive infotainment system. While it’s true, our focus here is on towing capacity, not things like standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. In the Canyon, it’s nice to know you get all of the above in one versatile truck.

Research the GMC Canyon on MSN Autos

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

9/16 SLIDES © Nissan North America, Inc.

2020 Nissan Titan

Max Towing: 9,370 lbs | $36,190 | USN Overall Score: 7.4/10

We’re stepping up the big dogs now, with the Nissan Titan being the first full-size pickup truck represented in this slideshow. With a maximum towing capacity of 9,370 pounds, the Titan offers a significant step upward from compact models like the Colorado and Tacoma .

Yet, the Titan tows thousands less than rivals from Ram, Ford, and Chevrolet. The Titan XD does offer 10,880 pounds of towing capacity but, since we’re not including heavy-duty variants, we’ll keep attention on the entry-level model. Thanks to its standard 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8, the Titan has plenty of power and accelerates strongly when you need to make quick getaways. The Titan in SV trim and King Cab format with rear-wheel drive is the model that gets you to 9,370 towing capability. An optional Two Package includes features like a Class IV tow hitch receiver with four- and seven-pin wiring harness, trailer light check, trailer brake controller, and extendable side tow mirrors.

Research the Nissan Titan on MSN Autos | Find a Nissan Titan near you

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Slideshow continues on the next slide

10/16 SLIDES © Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

2020 Toyota Tundra

Max Towing: 10,200 lbs | $33,575 | USN Overall Score: 6.5/10

The Toyota Tundra comes loaded with plenty of comfort and safety features, though there’s no denying this full-size pickup is overdue for an update. Despite getting a redesign back in 2014, the Tundra trails segment leaders when it comes to towing capacity, not to mention ride comfort, handling prowess, and interior quality.

Then again, the Tundra has a superb reputation for long-term reliability, and the standard 381-horsepower 5.7-liter is hardly what you’d call short on power. Like some of the trucks listed here, there is only one engine offered, so maximum towing capacity depends on checking the right trim level. In this case, the Tundra SR5 Double Cab with the standard cargo bed and rear-wheel drive is your top towing choice. Extendable tow mirrors with integrated heating and blind spot monitors are available.

Research the Toyota Tundra on MSN Autos | Find a Toyota Tundra near you

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

11/16 SLIDES © General Motors

2020 GMC Sierra

Max Towing: 12,100 lbs | $51,000 | USN Overall Score: 7.9/10

The Sierra is a full-size pickup that delivers when it comes to long-distance comfort, spacious seating, and clever features like GMC’s Multipro tailgate. While the Sierra is a mechanical twin the Chevrolet Silverado , the GMC’s towing capacity comes up 1,300 pounds short of its Chevy cousin. That might not be a deal breaker for many people, especially considering 12,100 pounds of towing capacity is still a considerable amount.

Upmarket trims, like the Denali model, are luxurious and come loaded with comfort features. If towing matters more than heated and ventilated seats, keep in mind the Sierra’s maximum tow rating comes with the optional 6.2-liter V8, four-wheel drive, and Max Trailering package. This includes an automatic locking rear differential, heavy-duty rear springs, 3.42 axle ratio, trailer brake controller, upgraded radiator, revised shocks, and 9.76 rear axle.

Research the GMC Sierra 1500 | Find a GMC Sierra 1500 close to you

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

2020 Ram 1500

Max Towing: 12,750 lbs | $34,130 | USN Overall Score: 9.0/10

When it comes to coddling you with a relaxed ride and quality cabin, none do it better than the Ram 1500 . Among full-size pickup trucks, the Ram stands out not only for its strong hauling and towing capacity, but also the regal way it goes about getting a job done.

Like many pickups with seemingly endless options and configurations, it’s handy to know which model unlocks this truck’s best tow rating. In the case of the Ram 1500, this means choosing the Quad Cab, 395-horsepower eTorque-assisted V8 and rear-wheel drive. An available Trailer Tow package includes extendable two mirrors, Class IV hitch, and trailer brake control. True, Ford and Chevrolet hold an edge in ultimate towing might, though the Ram’s driving manners and premium cabin earn it plenty of pickup truck brownie points.

Research the Ram 1500 | Find a Ram 1500 in your area

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

2020 Ford F-150

Max Towing: 13,200 lbs | $33,890 | USN Overall Score: 9.1/10

As the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for more than 40 years, the Ford F-150 is popular for many reasons. One of them is towing capacity, which until recently put this Ford truck at the top of the heap. While brand loyalists might feel the sting about a new light-duty truck taking overall towing honors, the F-150’s 13,200 pound towing capacity is fantastic. There are endless ways to configure an F-150, not to mention a total of six available engines. When properly equipped, it’s the 375-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 in rear-wheel drive format that provides this truck’s max tow rating. Additional towing features include Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which synchronizes the truck and trailer while reversing, along with trailer brake controller, dynamic hitch assist, and blind spot monitors that include coverage of any potentially hidden vehicles alongside both truck and trailer.

The F-150 rides nicely, feels solid, and has plenty of cabin room. Some rivals have more elegant interior trim, especially on range-topping models, but that’s one of this capable truck’s few minor flaws.

Research the Ford F-150 on MSN Autos | Find a Ford F-150 near you

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Max Towing: 13,400 lbs | $43,120 | USN Overall Score: 8.3/10

Congratulations Chevrolet, you’re the light-duty truck towing champion. At 13,400 pounds, the Silverado takes the title thanks to recent updates that dethrone its bitter rival, the F-150 . In terms of hard numbers, the Chevy wins by a couple hundred pounds over the Ford when in Double Cab format and standard cargo bed, equipped with optional 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8, four-wheel drive, 20-inch wheels, and Max Trailering package. This nets you features like an automatic locking rear differential, two-inch receiver hitch with four- and seven-pin connectors, 3.42 axle ratio, and hitch guidance, among other items.

An available trailer camera system provides no less than 15 viewing angles, along with the ability to see the road behind directly through the trailer you’re towing. The Silverado has the most ho-hum cabin when compared to the Ram and F-150, though let’s not take away from its newfound status as towing champ.

Research the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | Seek out a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 near you

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Slideshow continues on the next slide

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

To find out even more about these trucks, or any vehicle you’re currently considering, then pay a visit to our vehicle rankings . Once there, you’ll find everything you need to know about pricing, fuel economy, engine options, and features available on all trim levels.

When you’ve narrowed your search, pay a visit to our lease and purchase option pages. These are routinely updated with a wide range of manufacturer-backed offers for every type of car shopping budget.

Finally, when you’re close to your car or truck-buying finish line, don’t forget to use our Best Price Program . Shoppers who use this feature save an average of more than $3,000 of the cost of their vehicle acquisition.

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.