3 SUVs as Capable as a Pickup Truck
Pickup trucks have their purpose. They are capable and utilitarian, boasting the undeniable utilitarian benefits of a truck bed. They are also fierce towing machines. But for many families, a large three-row SUV like the Ford Expedition may be a better option. When it comes to towing and hauling, these 3 SUVs are the best and each one is as capable as a pickup truck for most jobs.
Of course, if you really need to tow a hefty load you’ll want to buy a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for the job. However, if you are looking for an all-around vehicle that doubles as both a family hauler and a workhorse for weekend jobs or trips to the bakehouse, one of these SUVs might fit more effectively into your lifestyle.
Chevy Tahoe
The Chevy Tahoe SUV is a popular choice for families. Additionally, if you need something with great towing power this is one of the SUVs that will serve your family quite well. Equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 engine, the Tahoe is a formidable force. According to Cars.com, the Chevy Tahoe SUV can tow up to 8,600 pounds or 8,400 pounds with AWD.
According to US News and World Report, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV has provides up to 122.9 cubic feet of cargo space with all the seats fold down. The LT trim starts for $53,800. Even in its lower trim levels, the Tahoe boasts a long list of features making it a compelling choice.
Dodge Durango SRT
This is one of the more powerful SUVs on the market. It’s a muscular pickup truck alternative with up to 8,700 pounds of towing strength. With a powerful 6.4-liter V8 engine, Cars.com reports the Dodge Durango SRT can compete with sports cars like a manual shifting Ford Mustang GT.
US News and World Report writes that the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT can hold up to 85.1 cubic feet of cargo with all the seats fold down. Additionally, the Dodge Durango SRT is equipped with a fully folding passenger seat for when hauling longer items requires the full length of the vehicle. The 2020 SRT model starts at $62,995, making it a capable but expensive option. That said, a full-size pickup truck with comparable features will easily cost as much or more.
Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition SUV tops lists such as the US News and World Report list of large SUVs. It is also the beefiest SUV in terms of towing capacity. According to Cars.com, the Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds or 9,200 pounds with AWD. The Ford Expedition Max adds cargo length and still boasts a maximum tow capacity of 9,000 pounds.
The Ford Expedition SUV offers up to 104.6 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats down. The Ford Expedition Max ups this to 121.7 cubic feet. The 2020 Ford Expedition SUV starts at $52,810. The Expedition Max adds $3,000.
SUV or pickup truck?
It’s worth noting that yes, a full-size pickup truck can tow more than 10,000 pounds. For some buyers, it will remain the obvious choice. However, these SUVs all tow more than the class-leader in tow capacity amongst the compact pickup truck segment. The 2020 Ford Ranger pickup tows the most of these trucks with a max capacity of 7,500 pounds, according to Ford.
