There is a long list of reasons why someone would buy an SUV—driving around an entire family of passengers, interior comfort, extra cargo space, and even riding in style with a Cadillac Escalade or Jeep Grand Wagoneer. However, some also might want an SUV with excellent towing capabilities. Many full-size or large SUVs are perfect for towing, but here are the best SUVs for towing 8,500 pounds or more, something only models like the Nissan Armada, Dodge Durango, and Ford Expedition can do.

The Nissan Armada can tow 8,500 pounds

According to iSeeCars, the Nissan Armada SUV can tow up to 8,500 pounds. The publication gave the Armada a 7.7 out of 10 for quality, placing it ninth on its best-towing SUVs list. However, it’s one of only a few options that can pull 8,500 pounds or more. For example, three models ahead of it have a smaller towing capacity than the Nissan model. The GMC Yukon and Yukon XL can tow 8,400 and 7,800 pounds, respectively, while the Chevrolet Suburban can pull 8,300 pounds.

The Armada is an excellent choice for customers searching purely for a towing machine. Additionally, used models that are three years old or less have a price range of between $35,943 and $60,997. As you might expect, the newest models are on the higher end. Two upper trims for a new 2023 model exceed $60,000, so even the most costly used models aren’t particularly overpriced.

Dodge Durango is an underrated towing SUV

Next, the Dodge Durango probably wasn’t on your “best SUVs for towing” bingo card, but here it is. The powerful and sporty model that’s one of the few remaining in the Dodge lineup is also one of the best for towing. iSC says it can tow up to 8,700 pounds, which beats every model except one. Overall, the reviewer gave it an 8.1 out of 10, beating all four previously mentioned models. However, despite a better tow rating, it fell short of the Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Nissan Pathfinder.

Buying a new Durango will cost you between $38,495 and $102,085. We wouldn’t recommend choosing the six-figure option if your primary use is towing. However, a cheaper alternative is buying a used Dodge SUV, which ranges from $23,697 to $51,527 if produced for the last three model years. Towing 8,700 pounds means the Durango can pull just about anything from boats and trailers to a small camper.

The Ford Expedition is the best SUV for towing

Finally, the best SUV for towing is the Ford Expedition. Not only does the truck-based full-size SUV have the highest tow rating on the list, but it also earned the highest overall quality score from iSeeCars. With an 8.6 out of 10, the full-size SUV is the best option for towing on the list. Additionally, the Expedition offers an impressive towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, which also tops the list. Unfortunately, the Ford SUV is expensive in its higher trims and needs to be well-equipped to unlock the maximum towing capabilities.

According to iSC, a new Expedition costs between $50,500 and $69,775, while a three-year-old used model is usually between $34,742 and $55,989. Overall, a used Expedition is an excellent value for anyone who requires a family SUV that can tow. Remember, it’s more than just power since the high-end SUV is luxurious inside. Like many other full-size models, the most costly Expeditions have just about every feature.

Towing 8,500 pounds or more

What are the best SUVs for towing 8,500 pounds or more? In conclusion, the Ford Expedition is the best option available for a few reasons. It provides plenty of cabin space for passengers and cargo, and it’s a high-quality vehicle with the most towing capacity on iSC’s list. Additionally, the Nissan Armada and Dodge Durango are excellent alternatives for towing plenty of weight. While the two falter in terms of overall quality, the towing capability is undeniable and beats nearly every competitor.