The best cars for towing a caravan in 2026

Ford Ranger & Ford Ranger Super Duty

The Ford Ranger ute is the best-selling new vehicle in Australia and it’s a firm favourite for towing a caravan and other loads. Aussie design and development for local conditions have helped produce a vehicle that’s well set up to deliver excellent comfort and control when towing, from nicely honed suspension tuning to clever supporting electronic aids and camera views. An MY2026.5 update is now on sale, bringing broader availability of the tow-friendly V6 turbo-diesel and driver assist tech with trailer coverage amid a host of detail changes.

The other big news is the availability of the heavier-duty Ford Ranger Super Duty, which expands the Blue Oval ute’s appeal even further with improved towing capacity, payloads and off-road capabilities. Headline changes include a braked towing capacity up to 4500kg, stronger chassis, raised suspension, larger 130-litre fuel tank, extra undercarriage protection and 18-inch steel wheels with all-terrain tyres. A double cab pick-up version comes online from mid-2026.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6

• Price: $75,090 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 184kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2400kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3350kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6400kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 8.4L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 80L

Ford Ranger Super Duty Double Cab Chassis

• Price: $89,990 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 154kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2675kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 4500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 4500kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 8000kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): N/A
• Fuel tank capacity: 130L
  

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Volkswagen Amarok

If you’re shopping for a Ranger and aren’t wedded to the Blue Oval brand, the Volkswagen Amarok ute should be on your shortlist. It shares the Ford’s underpinnings and powertrain options, has an equivalent 3500kg tow capacity and, in short, is just as adept at towing duties. All models are fitted standard with a towing kit (tow bar, 12-pin trailer plug, electronic trailer brake controller) and clever tech, as found on Ranger, to help when hitching up and manoeuvring a van or trailer. The V6 diesel remains the best pick, while in some cases the Amarok has had an edge over the equivalent Ranger variant in terms of cabin presentation, seat comfort and detail features, so comparing spec and prices – and taking both for a test drive – is recommended.

Volkswagen Amarok Style V6

• Price: $75,990 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 184kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2386kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3350kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6400kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 8.4L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 80L

Research and compare Volkswagen Amarok models, specs, features, running costs and prices

Toyota HiLux

The new ninth-generation Toyota HiLux ute is now on sale, bringing incremental improvements across the board and boasting extensive local engineering input – with towing part of the program. There are two rear suspension tunes, with springs and dampers firmer for heavier load carrying and towing on WorkMate and SR grades, moving to a softer set-up on SR5, Rogue and Rugged X for better ride comfort when driving unladen but still taking caravan towing duties in its stride when hitched up. Rogue and Rugged X are fitted standard with a towing pack including tongue and ball, trailer wiring harness and electronic brake controller.

Toyota HiLux Rogue

• Price: $71,990 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2342kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3120kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6300kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 7.6L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 80L

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Isuzu MU-X

The Isuzu MU-X large seven-seater family SUV is a versatile performer and a popular choice for towing, getting the job done with minimum fuss but a bit less refinement and tech than others. The muscular 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine is a case in point, while a more economical 2.2-litre diesel (120kW/400Nm) is also now available, providing a lower price point and maintaining the 3.5-tonne towing limit. The MU-X is a close relation to the Isuzu D-Max, which is also worth considering if a ute option is a better fit with a van in tow.

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L

• Price: $73,400 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2185kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 2800kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 5900kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 7.6L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 80L

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Ford Everest

The Ford Everest is one of the top-selling SUVs in Australia and for the past couple of years has stood tall as the outright most popular large SUV. The Everest is favoured for its practical nature that seats up to seven occupants in plenty of comfort and, with close connections to the Ford Ranger ute, has a broad skillset – not least of which is solid towing. The smooth, strong V6 diesel is the pick of the powertrains, and a lot of work has gone into producing a comfortable and competent all-rounder that’s well suited to Australian conditions. At the entry level, a new 2026 Ford Everest Active is now on sale but misses out on the Pro Trailer Backup Assist tech available further up the range.

Ford Everest Sport V6

• Price: $76,990 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 184kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2455kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3150kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6250kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 8.5L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 80L

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Toyota LandCruiser Prado

The latest 250 Series Toyota LandCruiser Prado is an outstanding off-the-shelf 4x4 off-roader that’s now a more appealing vehicle for towing a van, not least because it carries a higher 3500kg maximum tow rating than the previous 150 Series (3000kg). When reviewing the new Prado, the payload left when towing at the 3.5-tonne limit can be quite restrictive – as can be the case with many towing vehicles – so buyers are urged to consider their van size and all weights involved, including people, luggage and tow ball download. Similarly, cabin and cargo room also leave more to be desired, but if it does pass those preliminary tests, the new Prado mounts a solid case with its stout performance, high-level comfort, vastly improved on-road manners and terrific off-road capabilities.

Toyota LandCruiser Prado GXL

• Price: $79,690 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2495kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3100kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6600kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 7.6L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 110L

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GWM Tank 500

The GWM Tank 500 is a value proposition in the heavy-duty 4x4 off-road corner of the large SUV class, undercutting the likes of Prado and tempting further with a high level of creature comforts. Rather than diesel grunt, the Tank offers hybrid power based around a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and electric motor, including a powerful new PHEV system that delivers 300kW and 750Nm. The standard hybrid produces 255kW/648Nm and both have a 3000kg maximum braked towing capacity – less than the segment leaders, but suitable for many small-to-medium vans. The Tank is a comfortable cruiser and proficient off-road, though something of a work in progress since launch in terms of its driving manners for Australian conditions that will continue to improve as transformative local suspension tuning kicks in during 2026. 

GWM Tank 500 Ultra HEV

• Price: $73,990 drive-away
• Engine: 255kW/648Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol electric
• Kerb weight: 2605kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3000kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3395kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6705kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 8.5L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 80L

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Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series

It’s impossible to ignore the Toyota LandCruiser 300 when it comes to towing. With a 3500kg braked towing capacity, the LC300 barely feels ruffled with that much out back. The twin-turbo V6 diesel has loads of low-rev pulling power, offering a useful range with its 110-litre tank, while the LandCruiser’s polished ride, stable handling, excellent refinement and solid off-road credentials all combine to make this full-size SUV a perfect companion for long-distance touring and trekking. It doesn’t come cheap, though, especially once you choose a better-equipped model like the VX. Also watch out for the first-ever Toyota LandCruiser Hybrid landing in 2026, featuring a 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol-electric powertrain and offering no compromises with towing, according to the carmaker.

Toyota LandCruiser 300 VX

• Price: $123,510 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 227kW/700Nm 3.3-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel
• Kerb weight: 2620kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3280kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 6750kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 8.9L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 110L

Research and compare Toyota LandCruiser 300 models, specs, features, running costs and prices

Nissan Patrol

The current Y62 Nissan Patrol might be getting long in the tooth, and a little lost amid the buzz surrounding the twin-turbo V6 Y63 due in 2027, but Nissan’s big V8-powered 4x4 wagon remains a supremely comfortable long-distance tourer and hauler. The 5.6-litre V8 is well up to the task of managing the 3500kg braked towing limit, and while it’s a thirsty beast for premium unleaded in everyday running around the suburbs, our experience with towing suggests the difference between the petrol V8 and a diesel V6 isn’t too dramatic when there’s a van hitched behind on the open road. Besides, there’s a sizeable 140-litre fuel tank to keep you motoring and, when considering the value equation, a much lower starting price than a similar-spec Toyota LandCruiser 300. Regular updates have helped keep Patrol fresh (up to a point) and Nissan’s 10-year conditional warranty is a bonus, too.

Nissan Patrol Ti

• Price: $96,540 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 298kW/560Nm 5.6-litre V8 petrol
• Kerb weight: 2786kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3500kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 7000kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 14.4L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 140L

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Ford F-150

A bigger brother to the Ford Ranger, the Ford F-150 muscles in alongside the Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra and other full-size pick-ups converted to right-hand drive for Australians who want their own slice of American supersizing and maximum towing convenience. You pay for the privilege, but the rewards are there with acres of interior space, muscular twin-turbo V6 petrol engine performance, a 136-litre long-range fuel tank, cushiony ride quality and, not least of all, excellent towing credentials. As with most towing rigs, there are payload concessions when heavy loads are involved, but a recent upgrade has brought improvements in this area – as well as extra equipment across the range and a new top-shelf Platinum grade (from $163,950 plus on-road costs). The F-150’s headline 4500kg towing capacity (with 70mm tow ball) and comprehensive standard-fit Max Tow Package and towing-specific driver assist features all remain as big incentives for caravanners. It was also recently ranked by ANCAP as the safest large ute in Australia.

Ford F-150 XLT LWB

• Price: $114,950 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 298kW/678Nm 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol
• Kerb weight: 2482kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 4500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3360kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 7410kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 12.5L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 136L

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Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Converted to right-hand drive in Australia, GMSV’s Chevrolet Silverado 1500 full-size pick-up truck feels purpose-built for long-distance touring with a caravan in tow, thanks to its brawny V8 petrol engine performance, stable handling, comfortable ride and 4500kg braked towing capacity (using a 70mm tow ball) with lots of supporting gear. The latter includes a rearview camera with hitch guidance and views, in-vehicle trailering app with trailer profiles, trailer theft alert, tow bar (not including ball and tongue), 12-pin wiring harness, electronic brake controller, automated trailer lighting test and a gross combined mass alert. The Silverado is generously specified, cavernous inside, enjoyable to drive on the open road (city driving and parking can be a chore) and isn’t as thirsty as its sheer size, weight and powertrain suggest. It also now has a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty for extra peace of mind.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Premium

• Price: $134,500 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 313kW/624Nm 6.2-litre V8 petrol
• Kerb weight: 2552kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 4500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3300kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 7160kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 12.8L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 91L

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Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series

We’ve already highlighted the 300 Series Cruiser and 250 Series Prado, but it’s hard to overlook the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series in a collection of the best towing vehicles on offer in Australia. It does not have the creature comforts that most owners will crave, making the purchase price for the LC70 – be it the Single or Double Cab Chassis, Wagon or Troop Carrier – almost unfathomable. But take comfort in the fact this is a proper workhorse that’s fit for purpose as a dependable and customisable 4x4 off-roader which tows with confidence in its natural environment. There are no clever camera views to help when hitching a van, but the auto-equipped four-cylinder diesel is up to the task and, in the popular LC79 dual cab chassis, the ute retains a circa-one-tonne payload while towing at the maximum 3500kg capacity.

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series Double Cab Chassis GXL (auto)

• Price: $83,500 plus on-road costs
• Engine: 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
• Kerb weight: 2185kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 3500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3510kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 7010kg
• Fuel consumption (claimed): 9.6L/100km
• Fuel tank capacity: 130L

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Hyundai Ioniq 9

As interest in EVs continues to grow in Australia and new models enter lifestyle-oriented segments such as large SUVs and utes, towing capabilities are becoming an important consideration for prospective owners. One of the best EVs we tested in 2025, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 has a 2500kg braked towing capacity, trailer pre-wiring package fitted standard, strong performance from its dual-motor powertrain and a large battery with a handy range when not hitched up. As with all vehicles (regardless of powertrain), towing puts significant pressure on efficiency; with EVs, it can potentially halve the manufacturer’s claimed unladen driving range. Electric cars with a caravan attached will also present issues at public recharging points, such as needing to unhitch in order to plug in. But with a small van and, we’d suggest careful planning on routes that aren’t too long or challenging (factoring in the absence of a spare wheel, for example), the Ioniq 9 is at least worth exploring.

Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy

• Price: $113,204 plus on-road costs
• Powertrain: 314kW/700Nm dual electric motors (157kW/350Nm front/rear)
• Battery: 110.3kWh lithium-ion
• Kerb weight: 2744kg
• Towing capacity (braked): 2500kg
• Gross vehicle mass (GVM): 3320kg
• Gross combined mass (GCM): 5820kg
• EV efficiency (claimed): 20.6kWh/100km
• Driving range (WLTP): 600km

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Know the weight limits when towing a caravan

It’s crucial that you crunch some numbers before deciding on a tow vehicle to buy, as there are various limits you can’t breach from a legal or safety perspective.

The first is the maximum braked towing capacity, which is how much weight the vehicle can tow with trailer brakes fitted (unbraked towing figures are restricted to 750kg). The towing capacity includes not only the caravan or trailer, but accessories and everything in and attached to the van, from dinnerware to water and food.

You also need to consider the gross combined mass (GCM), which is the maximum weight of both the towing vehicle and trailer – and everything in (and on) each, including accessories such as bull bars and roof racks.

Then there’s the gross vehicle mass (GVM). This is the maximum weight of your vehicle with everything in it – ie. fully loaded, including people – when ready for the road. It also includes the tow ball weight, which is how much the trailer is pushing down on the tow ball of the car.

The other key figure we’ve included in our towing vehicle specs is kerb weight, which is the weight of the car with oil, fluids and a full tank of fuel, but not including people, luggage, accessories, etc.

If you subtract the kerb weight from GVM, you’ll be left with the payload you can carry – all the other things that weigh the vehicle down (passengers, cargo, accessories, etc), which can quickly add up when you’re preparing to hit the road.

See the RACV beginner’s guide to towing a caravan for more information.

More: How to tow a caravan: a beginner’s guide