Towing power suggests a very serious grunt. You probably think you need a big, intimidating truck to handle heavy-duty pulling. But not every truck with impressive towing power comes wrapped in an expensive monster package. Some of the most unassuming models can pull far more than you’d ever imagine.
Whether you’re hauling a camper for a weekend getaway or towing equipment for work, these low-key trucks are more muscular than you’d expect.
Ford Maverick
Versatility is the watchword of the Ford Maverick, so it should come as no surprise to learn that this small, city-friendly truck boasts a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds when equipped with the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and towing package. The Maverick punches well above its weight, thanks to Ford’s clever engineering.
Toyota Tacoma
Reliability and ruggedness spring to mind when you mention the Toyota Tacoma, but its impressive pulling power comes as a surprise to many. When fitted with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and Tow Package, it can tow up to 6,800 pounds.
Its manageable size and off-road capability make it perfect for towing boats, trailers, or gear, whether you’re hitting the trails or sticking to the highway.
Honda Ridgeline
Don’t be deceived by the sleek, SUV-like styling – the Honda Ridgeline isn’t afraid of getting stuck in and flexing its muscles. A unibody design and all-wheel-drive system combine comfort with strength, offering a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The Ridgeline feels just as at home towing a camper as it does running errands around town.
Chevrolet Colorado
You don’t need a full-size truck to handle serious towing tasks – and here to prove it is the Chevy Colorado. Equipped with the torquey 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine, this mid-size powerhouse can tow an impressive 7,700 pounds. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver, while its towing capabilities rival much larger competitors.
Nissan Frontier
When you’re looking for a willing workhorse, you need look no further than the Nissan Frontier, which balances a rugged exterior with surprising power. Its standard 3.8-liter V6 engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,720 pounds. This truck thrives in both urban and off-road settings, making it a reliable choice for towing trailers, boats, or campers.
GMC Canyon
GMC’s Canyon shares its platform and motive power with the Chevrolet Colorado but adds a touch of refinement. The optional 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine is the best option for towing, pulling up to 7,700 pounds. Its smaller size doesn’t compromise performance, and its towing power easily competes with larger trucks.
Jeep Gladiator
Here’s a remarkable truck that combines excellent off-road driving with an unexpected level of towing prowess. Blending Jeep’s off-road heritage with serious utility, the Gladiator’s 3.6-liter V6 engine provides a towing capacity of 7,650 pounds when properly equipped.
Whether you’re conquering trails or towing a trailer, this truck delivers versatility and power in a surprisingly understated package.
Ford Ranger
It’s hard to believe that the compact Ford Ranger can out-muscle some of the big boys with its impressive towing capacity – up to 7,500 pounds with the optional Trailer Tow Package.
Ford’s bulletproof 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine combines efficiency with surprising power, making it a great choice for towing mid-size trailers or boats. The Ranger’s smaller size makes it nimble and easy to drive, whether along city streets or heading to the campsite.
Ram 1500 Classic V6
If you want dependable towing power without all the bells and whistles, the Ram 1500’s balance of capability and simplicity is a great option. The V6-powered Classic can tow up to 7,710 pounds. Ram’s focus on comfort and usability ensures the modest Classic offers great value for money, too.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
This is Hyundai’s first foray into the truck world – and it looks promising. The Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine option. It’s a compact workhorse of a truck that’s perfect for light towing tasks while offering the practicality of a pickup bed.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 V6
Chevy’s Silverado 1500 V6 is a practical option for those who need serious towing capability without jumping into a more expensive V8 configuration. With its 4.3-liter engine, this truck can tow up to 7,900 pounds. The Silverado’s simple yet effective design ensures it stays modest while delivering big on performance.
Toyota Tundra V6 Hybrid
Tundra’s 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid setup offers an incredible towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds. Toyota’s powerhouse proves you can be eco-friendly and enjoy pulling capacity beyond your wildest dreams. Toyota redefined traditional truck expectations with this high-tech and highly capable vehicle.
Subaru Baja
Quirky Subaru Baja doesn’t look like a contender in the towing stakes, but it can handle up to 2,400 pounds – pretty impressive stuff for a vehicle that’s half-car, half-truck. A compact design and all-wheel-drive system make it perfect for light towing jobs and adventurous road trips.
Volkswagen Amarok
In Europe, the Amarok’s workhorse reputation has made it a best-seller. Once U.S. customers hear about its 7,700 pounds towing capability, it might become more popular here, too. This VW’s blend of sophistication and rugged practicality, powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine, makes it a perfect workhorse.
Suzuki Equator
Sadly, the little Suzuki Equator is no longer in production, but this ultra-reliable little truck deserves its spot on this list. It offers a towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds when equipped with the optional 4.0-liter V6 engine. Its unassuming appearance and compact size make it an overlooked gem in the truck world.