When it comes to finding the Best V6 SUV for Towing, buyers often look for a balance of strength, reliability, comfort, and advanced safety. V6-powered SUVs remain a top choice because they offer strong towing capability without the bulk and fuel demands of larger engines.
In this guide, we explore vehicles that are built to handle trailers, boats, and campers while still delivering everyday usability. Each SUV reviewed below has been carefully selected based on towing confidence, drivetrain engineering, interior comfort, and long-term dependability.
Top 10 Best V6 SUV for Towing Reviewed
1. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is widely respected for its body-on-frame construction, which gives it a clear advantage when towing heavier loads. Its V6 engine delivers consistent power that feels controlled even on inclines or uneven terrain. This SUV is engineered with durability in mind, making it suitable for frequent towing tasks.
One of the standout qualities of the 4Runner is its stable rear-wheel-drive platform, which enhances balance when hauling trailers. The suspension setup is firm yet compliant, allowing the vehicle to remain composed under stress. Drivers often praise its predictable handling while towing.
Inside, the cabin is designed with practicality rather than flash, which appeals to utility-focused buyers. Controls are intuitive, and visibility is excellent, especially when maneuvering with a trailer attached. This makes it easier for both experienced and first-time towers.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner is ideal for drivers who prioritize rugged dependability and consistent towing performance. It may not be the most refined SUV on the road, but its confidence under load makes it a standout.
Pros
- Strong body-on-frame construction
- Stable towing performance
- Excellent long-term reliability
Cons
- Firm ride quality
- Interior feels utilitarian
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a versatile SUV that blends towing capability with everyday comfort. Its V6 engine provides smooth and confident power delivery, making it well-suited for hauling moderate to heavy loads. The vehicle feels composed even at highway speeds with a trailer attached.
This SUV benefits from a refined chassis that balances comfort and strength. The suspension absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining stability during towing. Drivers often notice reduced sway compared to lighter crossovers.
The interior is one of the Grand Cherokee’s strongest selling points. It offers a quiet cabin, supportive seating, and user-friendly technology that enhances long-distance towing comfort. This makes it appealing for families who tow recreational equipment.
In summary, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out for those who want towing strength without sacrificing interior refinement. It delivers a confident driving experience in both urban and rugged environments.
Pros
- Comfortable and refined interior
- Balanced ride and handling
- Strong V6 performance
Cons
- Fuel efficiency drops when towing
- Complex trim options
3. Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer has evolved into a capable towing SUV with a solid V6 powertrain. Its rear-wheel-drive-based platform improves weight distribution, which is especially helpful when pulling trailers. This design gives it a more confident towing posture.
On the road, the Explorer feels planted and responsive. Steering remains precise even under load, which reduces driver fatigue on longer trips. The braking system also performs well, offering reassurance during downhill towing.
Inside, the Explorer offers a spacious cabin with flexible seating and cargo options. This versatility allows drivers to balance passenger comfort with towing gear. Technology features further enhance convenience and safety.
The Ford Explorer is a strong choice for drivers seeking a modern SUV that handles towing duties with ease while remaining family-friendly.
Pros
- Rear-wheel-drive architecture
- Spacious and versatile interior
- Confident highway towing
Cons
- Learning curve for new tech
- Ride can feel firm when loaded
4. Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is known for its smooth V6 engine and dependable engineering. While it leans more toward family use, it still offers respectable towing capability for boats and campers. Power delivery is linear, making towing feel predictable.
This SUV excels in ride comfort, even when towing. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps without excessive body movement. This makes it a comfortable option for long-distance trips with a trailer.
The cabin is spacious and thoughtfully designed, offering excellent visibility and intuitive controls. Drivers appreciate how easy it is to manage towing tasks without feeling overwhelmed.
The Honda Pilot is best suited for drivers who value comfort and reliability alongside moderate towing strength. It may not be rugged, but it is highly dependable.
Pros
- Smooth and reliable V6 engine
- Comfortable ride quality
- User-friendly interior layout
Cons
- Less rugged than competitors
- Not ideal for extreme towing
5. Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder offers a capable V6 engine paired with a well-balanced chassis. It provides confident towing performance for drivers who need versatility without stepping into a truck-based SUV. Power delivery remains smooth and controlled.
When towing, the Pathfinder maintains stable handling and predictable braking. The steering feels light but accurate, which helps during tight maneuvers. This makes it approachable for less experienced towers.
Inside, the Pathfinder emphasizes comfort and space. Seating is supportive, and the cabin layout allows easy access to towing-related controls. This contributes to a stress-free driving experience.
Overall, the Nissan Pathfinder is a solid choice for those who want dependable towing in a refined and family-oriented package.
Pros
- Smooth towing performance
- Comfortable and quiet cabin
- Easy handling under load
Cons
- Less off-road focused
- Conservative styling
6. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a midsize SUV that offers impressive towing confidence thanks to its strong V6 engine. It delivers steady acceleration even when pulling heavier loads, which helps drivers feel in control on highways and inclines. The powertrain feels refined rather than strained.
One of the Traverse’s biggest strengths is its long wheelbase, which contributes to excellent stability when towing. Trailer sway is minimal, and the vehicle tracks straight even in windy conditions. This makes it a reassuring option for extended trips.
The interior is spacious and comfortable, with ample room for passengers and gear. Controls are simple and well laid out, reducing distractions while towing. Visibility is also a strong point, helping with lane changes and backing up.
The Chevrolet Traverse is ideal for families who need towing capability without giving up interior space and comfort. It blends practicality with dependable performance.
Pros
- Stable and confident towing
- Large and comfortable interior
- Smooth V6 power delivery
Cons
- Large size in tight areas
- Less sporty handling
7. Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango stands out as one of the more performance-oriented V6 SUVs for towing. Its engine delivers strong low-end torque, which is especially useful when pulling trailers from a stop. Acceleration feels confident and responsive.
The rear-wheel-drive-based platform gives the Durango an edge in towing balance. It feels planted at highway speeds, and the suspension handles added weight without excessive bounce. This inspires confidence on longer hauls.
Inside, the Durango offers a driver-focused cabin with supportive seating. The layout feels more athletic than many competitors, which appeals to drivers who want towing ability without a purely utilitarian feel.
The Dodge Durango is a great choice for those who want a blend of strength, stability, and a sporty driving character while towing.
Pros
- Strong torque delivery
- Rear-wheel-drive stability
- Sporty driving feel
Cons
- Interior design may feel dated
- Firm ride when unloaded
8. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is a refined SUV that proves towing capability does not have to come at the expense of driving enjoyment. Its V6 engine provides smooth and consistent power suitable for light to moderate towing needs. The vehicle feels agile compared to larger rivals.
While towing, the CX-9 maintains impressive composure thanks to its well-tuned suspension. Steering remains precise, helping drivers feel confident even with added weight. This makes it enjoyable to drive in everyday conditions.
The interior is upscale and thoughtfully designed, offering a premium feel rarely found in towing-focused SUVs. Comfort and noise control are strong points, especially on long drives.
The Mazda CX-9 is best for drivers who prioritize refinement and handling while still needing dependable towing performance.
Pros
- Refined and quiet cabin
- Precise steering control
- Comfortable ride quality
Cons
- Lower towing focus than rivals
- Tighter third-row space
9. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas offers a strong V6 engine paired with a solid and predictable driving feel. It is designed to handle towing tasks while remaining easy to drive for daily use. Power delivery feels smooth and controlled.
Its wide stance and long wheelbase contribute to excellent towing stability. The Atlas feels balanced with a trailer attached, reducing driver stress during highway cruising. Braking performance is also reassuring.
Inside, the Atlas emphasizes space and simplicity. The cabin is roomy, with straightforward controls that make managing towing tasks easier. Passenger comfort remains high even on longer journeys.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a dependable option for families who want towing strength combined with generous interior space.
Pros
- Spacious and practical interior
- Stable towing dynamics
- User-friendly controls
Cons
- Engine feels less sporty
- Large turning radius
10. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has earned a strong reputation for combining comfort with dependable V6 towing capability. Its engine delivers confident performance that feels composed under load. Acceleration remains smooth and predictable.
The Telluride’s chassis is well balanced, which helps minimize trailer sway. Suspension tuning strikes a balance between comfort and control, making it suitable for long-distance towing. Drivers often praise its calm highway manners.
Inside, the Telluride offers a high-quality cabin with excellent ergonomics. Visibility is strong, and the seating provides ample support, which is especially valuable during extended towing trips.
The Kia Telluride is an excellent all-around choice for drivers seeking towing performance without sacrificing comfort or interior quality.
Pros
- Balanced and smooth towing
- High-quality interior design
- Comfortable long-distance driving
Cons
- Less rugged than truck-based SUVs
- Large size for city driving
| Product Name | Towing Stability | Interior Comfort | Driving Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota 4Runner | Very stable under load | Practical and durable | Rugged and controlled |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Balanced and confident | Refined and quiet | Smooth and versatile |
| Ford Explorer | Planted at highway speeds | Spacious and modern | Confident and responsive |
| Honda Pilot | Predictable handling | Comfort-focused cabin | Relaxed and stable |
| Nissan Pathfinder | Easy to manage | Comfortable seating | Light and approachable |
| Chevrolet Traverse | Excellent straight-line control | Large and family-friendly | Smooth and steady |
| Dodge Durango | Strong rear-drive balance | Driver-focused layout | Sporty and powerful |
| Mazda CX-9 | Composed for moderate loads | Upscale interior feel | Agile and refined |
| Volkswagen Atlas | Wide and stable stance | Roomy and simple | Calm and predictable |
| Kia Telluride | Well-balanced and smooth | Premium comfort | Relaxed and confident |
Best V6 SUV for Towing: Buying Guide
Engine Performance and Power Delivery
A V6 engine should provide smooth and consistent power, especially when towing uphill or merging onto highways. Look for engines that deliver torque evenly rather than aggressively, as this improves control. Smooth power delivery reduces stress on the drivetrain and enhances overall towing confidence.
Drivetrain and Platform Design
Rear-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-based all-wheel-drive platforms generally perform better for towing. These layouts improve weight distribution and stability when hauling trailers. Body-on-frame SUVs often excel in durability, while unibody designs emphasize comfort.
Suspension and Braking Systems
A well-tuned suspension is critical for managing added trailer weight. Firm yet compliant setups help reduce sway and bouncing. Strong braking systems also play a major role in maintaining safety, especially on downhill grades.
Interior Comfort for Long Trips
Towing often involves long drives, making interior comfort essential. Supportive seating, clear visibility, and intuitive controls reduce driver fatigue. Quiet cabins also improve the overall towing experience.
Technology and Safety Features
Modern towing aids such as stability control, trailer sway mitigation, and camera systems add confidence. These features help drivers manage challenging conditions more easily. Technology should support the driver without becoming distracting.
FAQ
What makes a V6 SUV good for towing?
A good V6 towing SUV combines strong torque, a stable chassis, and effective braking. The engine should provide consistent power rather than sudden surges. Proper suspension tuning and drivetrain layout also play important roles in towing performance.
Is rear-wheel drive better than all-wheel drive for towing?
Rear-wheel drive often provides better towing balance due to improved weight distribution. All-wheel drive can add traction in slippery conditions, but rear-wheel-based systems tend to feel more stable under load. The best choice depends on driving conditions.
Can a family SUV handle regular towing?
Many family-oriented SUVs are capable of regular towing when properly equipped. They offer a balance of comfort and strength suitable for recreational trailers. However, they may not match the durability of truck-based SUVs.
Does towing affect ride comfort?
Towing can slightly firm up ride quality due to added weight. Well-designed suspensions minimize discomfort and maintain stability. High-quality SUVs manage this balance effectively.
Are V6 SUVs suitable for long-distance towing?
Yes, many V6 SUVs are designed for long-distance towing. Comfort features, stable handling, and efficient power delivery make them suitable for extended trips. Choosing the right vehicle reduces fatigue.
What should I check before towing with an SUV?
Drivers should ensure proper hitch setup, tire condition, and brake readiness. Weight distribution and load balance are also critical. Regular maintenance improves safety and performance.
Verdict
Choosing the Best V6 SUV for Towing depends on balancing power, stability, comfort, and reliability. From rugged body-on-frame models to refined family SUVs, today’s V6 options offer impressive versatility. By focusing on drivetrain design, suspension quality, and interior comfort, buyers can confidently select an SUV that meets both towing and everyday driving needs.