Best Cars for Towing in Australia – Utes, SUVs, and Beyond

Australia’s vast landscapes, outdoor culture, and growing love for caravanning and boating mean towing isn’t just a weekend luxury — it’s a way of life. Whether you’re towing a caravan across the Outback, hauling a trailer for work, or lugging your boat to the coast, choosing the right car makes all the difference.

This detailed guide dives into the best cars for towing in Australia in 2025, focusing on utes, SUVs, and a few unexpected contenders. We’ll break down towing capacities, payload, torque, drivability, fuel types, safety, and price to help you make a smart, confident choice.

🔧 Understanding Towing Needs in Australia

Before diving into specific models, it’s vital to know what you're towing and how. Here are key considerations:

1. Braked vs Unbraked Towing Capacity

• Braked towing capacity: This applies when your trailer or caravan has its own braking system. It’s the figure most manufacturers advertise.

• Unbraked towing capacity: Lower, typically capped at 750kg in Australia.

2. GCM (Gross Combination Mass)

• Total weight of your vehicle plus trailer plus all contents inside both.

3. Payload and Towball Weight

• The payload must accommodate passengers, fuel, luggage, and towball download weight.

• Most vehicles allow 10% of trailer weight as maximum towball weight.

🛻 Top Utes for Towing in Australia 2025

Utes are Aussie icons — reliable, powerful, and purpose-built for towing.

1. 2025 Toyota HiLux SR5

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Engine: 2.8L Turbo-Diesel

• Torque: 500Nm

• GCM: 5,800kg

• Price: From $58,000

Australia’s best-selling ute isn’t just a crowd-pleaser; it’s a towing champ. The HiLux’s rugged build, exceptional off-road tech, and reputation for reliability make it a top pick for caravaners and tradies alike.

Pros:

• Excellent resale value

• Wide dealer network

• Great 4x4 system

Cons:

• Ride comfort can be stiff when unloaded

2. 2025 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Engine: 3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel

• Torque: 600Nm

• GCM: 6,350kg

• Price: From $71,000

Ford’s Ranger V6 brings effortless power, modern tech, and strong towing performance. It’s perfect for heavier loads and long-distance towing.

Pros:

• Class-leading torque

• Smooth 10-speed auto

• Massive aftermarket support

Cons:

• Higher price tag for V6 models

3. 2025 Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Engine: 3.0L Turbo-Diesel

• Torque: 450Nm

• GCM: 6,000kg

• Price: From $67,500

Built tough and made for Aussie conditions, the D-MAX is a go-to for reliability and capability.

Pros:

• Long service intervals

• High ground clearance

• Excellent safety features

Cons:

• Less refined ride than Ranger or HiLux

4. 2025 GWM Cannon-XSR

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,000kg

• Engine: 2.0L Turbo-Diesel

• Torque: 400Nm

• Price: From $52,990 drive-away

An emerging challenger in the ute space, GWM brings value and genuine capability.

Pros:

• Very affordable

• Good towing features like multi-camera system

• 7-year warranty

Cons:

• Lower GCM than top-tier rivals

🚙 Top SUVs for Towing in Australia 2025

If comfort, space, and long-distance travel are important, these SUVs pull double duty with serious towing chops.

1. 2025 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series VX

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Engine: 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6 Diesel

• Torque: 700Nm

• GCM: 6,750kg

• Price: From $138,000

Legendary for a reason. The 300 Series offers power, off-road control, and luxury all in one.

Pros:

• Exceptional torque for towing

• High-tech off-road tools

• Large cabin and boot

Cons:

• Very expensive

• Hard to find in stock

2. 2025 Ford Everest Platinum

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Engine: 3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel

• Torque: 600Nm

• GCM: 6,500kg

• Price: From $76,000

A proper 7-seat SUV with Ranger’s DNA. Great for families who need towing grunt and comfort.

Pros:

• Fantastic cabin tech

• Real 4WD ability

• Stable under tow

Cons:

• Pricey at the top end

3. 2025 Isuzu MU-X LS-T

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg

• Engine: 3.0L Turbo-Diesel

• Torque: 450Nm

• GCM: 6,000kg

• Price: From $69,000

One of the best value 7-seat SUVs with real off-road and towing cred.

Pros:

• Proven engine and driveline

• Excellent warranty

• Affordable service costs

Cons:

• Slightly dated interior

4. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited

• Braked Towing Capacity: 2,813kg

• Engine: 3.6L Petrol V6

• Torque: 344Nm

• GCM: ~5,700kg

• Price: From $81,000

If you want luxury and moderate towing, the Grand Cherokee L delivers plush comfort and space.

Pros:

• 7-seat option

• Excellent cabin quality

• Smooth ride

Cons:

• Lower towing than others

• Petrol thirst

⚙️ What About Electric & Hybrid Tow Vehicles?

⚡ Not All Hybrids or EVs Are Made for Towing

Towing reduces range significantly for EVs. Still, a few are beginning to change the game:

1. 2025 Kia EV9 GT-Line

• Braked Towing Capacity: 2,500kg

• Range: 505km WLTP

• Torque: 700Nm (dual motor)

• Price: From $100,000+

Modern electric SUV with good towing credentials and towing mode.

2. 2025 Toyota Kluger Hybrid

• Braked Towing Capacity: 2,000kg

• Torque: 242Nm combined

• Price: From $63,000

Excellent for light towing like small trailers or jet skis.

🏕️ Best Towing Picks for Camping & Adventure

🚐 For Heavy Caravan Towing:

• Ford Ranger V6

• Toyota LandCruiser 300

• Isuzu MU-X

⛵ For Boats or Trailers Under 3T:

• Ford Everest

• HiLux SR5

• D-MAX X-Terrain

⚡ For Eco-Conscious Towing:

• Kia EV9 (Light towing only)

• Toyota Kluger Hybrid

✅ Towing Features to Look For

• Trailer Sway Control – Prevents oscillation

• Tow Mode – Optimises gear shifts and throttle

• Integrated Brake Controller – A must for safe caravan towing

• Rear Cross Traffic & 360° Cameras – For backing up with a trailer

• Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Coverage

💬 Final Thoughts – Choosing the Right Towing Vehicle

When picking a towing car in Australia, always match your vehicle to your specific needs:

• Tradie hauling tools? Go HiLux or Ranger.

• Big family with a van? Everest or MU-X.

• Luxury tower? LandCruiser 300.

• Light-duty beach getaways? Kluger Hybrid or Grand Cherokee.

The golden rule? Don’t just chase the highest towing figure — consider your total load, GCM, towball weight, fuel type, and your comfort behind the wheel.