Towing capacity isn’t a suggestion. This is a strict limit on the weight a vehicle can pull without turning into a liability or a wreck. This number is defined by the manufacturer and can be found in the owner’s manual. If you ignore this, you risk burning out your transmission, messing up your ride, and ruining your brakes. Sure, an aftermarket towbar may be worth more than your car, but the towbar is not attached to the frame. It’s a car. Always follow the manufacturer’s spec.
When looking at these numbers, remember the math. The table below shows the maximum towing capacity of some of the most popular brands by year, make and model from 2006 to 2009. But that figure assumes a bare-bones vehicle. Passengers weighing more than 150 lbs. must be taken into account. Add in optional equipment. Factor in your cargo. When you subtract all of this from the gross vehicle weight rating, the remaining payload is really important. Pushing the limit is like playing Russian roulette with the suspension and transmission.
Here are the numbers for Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick and Cadillac.
Acura towing capacity
At the time, Acura didn’t build a massive lineup of haulers, but the MDX was a serious worker. Elsewhere in the brand, luxury is emphasized instead of effort.
2006
MDX: 3500 lbs.
RL: 1000 lbs
RSX: 1500 lbs.
– TL: 1000 lbs.
– TSX: Not suitable for towing
2007
– MDX: 5000 lbs (Big jump from the previous year)
RL: 1000 lbs
– RDX: 1500 lbs.
– TL: 1000 lbs.
– TSX: 1000 lbs (new rating)
2008
MDX: 5000 lbs
RL: 1000 lbs
RSX: 1500 lbs.
– TL: 1000 lbs.
– TSX: 1000 lbs
2009
MDX: 5000 lbs
RL: 1000 lbs
RSX: 1500 lbs.
– TSX: 1000 lbs
Do you need more information? Find Acura GVWR, Acura GAWR, Acura GCWR, Acura Cargo Capacity, Acura Curb Weight and Acura Payload.
Audi Towing Capacity
Most Audis from this era were not meant to tow. A3, A4, A6, TT? Forget it. But Audi’s full-size SUV, the Q7, was built to pull its weight.
2006
– All models (A3, A4, A6, A8, S4, TT): Not rated
2007
– A3: Not rated
– A4: Not rated
– A6: Not rated
– A8: Not rated
Q7: 5500 lbs
RS4: Not rated
– S4: Not rated
– S6: Not rated
– S8: Not rated
2008
– A3: Not rated
– A4: Not rated
– A5: Not rated
– A6: Not rated
– A8: Not rated
Q7: 5500 lbs
– R8: Not rated
RS4: Not rated
– S4: Not rated
– S5: Not rated
– S6: Not rated
– S8: Not rated
– TT: Not rated
2009
– A3: Not rated
– A4: Not rated
– A5: Not rated
– A8: Not rated
Q7: 5500 lbs
– R8: Not rated
– S4: Not rated
– S5: Not rated
– S8: Not rated
– TT: Not rated
Do you need more information? Search Audi GVWR, Audi GAWR, Audi GCWR, Audi cargo capacity, Audi vehicle weight, Audi capacity.
BMW towing capacity
BMW’s strategy is simple. Sedan and coupe do not tow. The SUV did it for me. With proper factory packaging, the X3 and X5 can withstand serious loads. M car? No.
2006
– 325: Not rated
– 330: Not rated
– 525: Not rated
– 530: Not rated
– 550: Not rated
– 650: Not rated
– 750: Not rated
– 760: Not rated
– M3: Not rated
– M5: Not rated
– M6: Not rated
– X3: 3500 lbs.
– X5: 6000 lbs.
– Z4: Not rated
– Z4M: Not rated
2007
– 328: Not rated
– 335: Not rated
– 525: Not rated
– 530: Not rated
– 550: Not rated
– 650: Not rated
– 750: Not rated
– 760: Not rated
– Alpina B7: Not rated
– M5: Not rated
– M6: Not rated
– X3: 3500 lbs.
– X5: 6000 lbs.
– Z4: Not rated
– Z4M: Not rated
2008
– 128: Not rated
– 135: Not rated
– 328: Not rated
– 335: Not rated
– 528: Not rated
– 535: Not rated
– 550: Not rated
– 650: Not rated
– 750: Not rated
– 760: Not rated
– Alpina B7: Not rated
– M3: Not rated
– M5: Not rated
– X3: 3500 lbs.
– X5: 6000 lbs.
– X6: 6000 lbs.
– Z4: Not rated
– Z4M: Not rated
2009
– 128: Not rated
– 135: Not rated
– 328: Not rated
–
Maximum towing capacity by model: Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford (2006-2009)
Want to know how much pulling power your mid-2000s vehicle can deliver? These figures vary by engine, chassrated for and model year. Thrated for breakdown covers 2006-2009 Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge and Ford towing limits.
Chevrolet towing capacity
During thrated for period, Chevrolet’s product range was divided into light trucks, heavy workhorses and family haulers. Silverado 1500 towing capacity declined in 2007 and 2008 and then leveled off.
2006 model
The Avalanche 2500 rated for the heavy lifter here that can pull 10,200 pounds. The Silverado 1500 SS rated for rated at 7,500 lbs, while the standard Silverado 1500 rated for 5,700 lbs. If you are transporting a Suburban 2500, the towing capacity rated for 7,900 lbs. Small cars such as the Cobalt, HHR, Impala and Monte Carlo have a weight limit of 1,000 lbs. The price of the Colorado pickup truck rated for a modest 1,600 pounds.
2007 model
The Silverado 2500 HD has passed the 10,000 lbs mark. The Silverado 1500 Classic retains its 5,700 lb rating from last year’s standard model. Notably, the Tahoe rated for now 4,500 lbs, up from 5,700 lbs last year. Colorado improved and went up to 1,900 lbs. The Pacifica rated for not a Chevrolet, so ignore that part. The Avalanche 1500 dropped slightly to 7,200 lbs.
2008 model
Silverado 2500 HD stabilized to 10,000 lbs. The Suburban 2500 has been significantly increased to 9,600 lbs (£7,700 in 2007). The Tahoe Hybrid rated for rated at 6,200 lbs. The Colorado finally found its footing at 3,000 lbs. The weight limit for small sedans rated for still 1,000 lbs.
2009 model
The Avalanche 1500 took a big hit and dropped to 5,000 lbs. The Silverado 1500 rated for 4,700 lbs. The Express 2500 van can tow 6,300 lbs and the Express 3500 can tow 6,200 lbs. The new Traverse adds 2,000 lbs to the towing lrated fort. The Suburban 2500 stays at 9,600 lbs.
“The Tahoe Hybrid offers an impressive 6,200-pound rating, better than the regular gas Tahoe of the same year.”
Chrysler towing capacity
Chrysler’s strategy rated for simple. Aspen SUVs do the heavy lifting. Minivans and sedans remain light.
2006-2007 model
PT Crurated forer rated for an surprrated fore player. 2006 could tow 3500 lbs. By 2007 thrated for had dropped to 1,000 lbs. The 300 C Sedan rated for 2,000 lbs in both years. Town & Country minivan was stuck 1,700 lbs. The Aspen debuted in 2007 with an impressive 8,950 lb rating.
2008-2009 models
The PT Crurated forer bounced back up to 2,600 lbs in 2008 and 1,000 lbs in 2009. The Town & Country went up to 3,600 lbs in 2008. The Aspen Hybrid was introduced in 2009 as .0 lbs and rated for the 8,950 lbs gas-powered Aspen. The 300 C limit remains at 2,000 lbs**.
Dodge towing capacity
Dodge trucks and vans dominate the high-end towing numbers. The Ram series rated for the star.
2006 model
Ram 3500 could pull 10,500 lbs. The Ram 2500 can handle 9,050 lbs. The Grand Caravan Minivan managed 3,700 lbs. The Durango SUV rated for 3,750 lbs. The Dakota pickup rated for 3,300 lbs. Vans such as the Sprinter 2500 and 3500 are limited to 5,000 lbs.
2007 model
RAM 3500 improved to 10,650 lbs. The Ram 2500 rated for priced at 9,200 lbs. The Sprinter Van 3500 jumps to 7,500 lbs. The Nitro SUV adds 3,500 lbs to the lineup. Charger remains 2,000 lbs. The Dakota dropped slightly to 3,250 lbs.
2008 model
The Ram 3500 rated for priced at 10,700 lbs. The Ram 2500 rated for priced at £9,250. The Durango increased to 3,850 lbs. The Grand Caravan dropped £3,600. The Avenger sedan only weighed 100lbs when released in 2008 (probably a typo or placeholder, corrected to 1000lbs in 2009). Ram 1500 remains £2,950.
2009 model
The Ram 3500 starts at £12,000 and tops out at £12,300. The RAM 1500 increases significantly to 3,800 lbs. The Durango Hybrid offers 5,750 lbs. The Challenger Sedan rated for 1,000 lbs. Travel rated for lrated forted but has no rating (-). The Ram 2500 stays at 9,300 lbs.
Ford towing capacity
Ford’s heavy-duty trucks, the F-250 and F-350, are the kings of thrated for lrated fort. Expedition SUVs are also strong candidates.
2006 model
The F-250 and F-350 are both 8,600 lbs. The Ranger pickup can tow 6,000 lbs. The Expedition rated forn’t lrated forted, but the Explorer managed 3,110 pounds. The E-350 Super Duty truck can handle 7,500 lbs. Freestar minibuses 3500 lbs.
2007 model
The F-250 and F-350 go up to 10,600 lbs. The Expedition rated for lrated forted for 9,200 lbs. The Explorer increased to 3,500 lbs. The Ranger has dropped dramatically to 2,460lbs. F-150
The years between 2006 and 2009 were a weird transition period for the automotive industry. Gas prices spiked, hybrids started showing up in showrooms, and manufacturers were still figuring out how to balance heavy-duty towing with fuel economy. If you are looking at buying a used truck or SUV from this era, knowing the exact max towing capacity is not just a number to memorize. It is the difference between a fun weekend trip and a blown transmission.
We are diving into the specs for the major players in the lot. No fluff. Just the numbers that matter.
GMC
GMC was leaning hard into the “professional grade” persona here. The Sierra 2500HD was the workhorse, capable of pulling serious weight. The Yukon Hybrid showed up in 2008, trying to blend efficiency with utility, though its towing numbers tell a different story than the V8 siblings.
2006 GMC Lineup
- Canyon: 1,800 lbs
- Envoy: 5,300 lbs
- Envoy XL: 5,000 lbs
- Savana 1500: 4,300 lbs
- Savana 2500: 6,300 lbs
- Savana 3500: 6,200 lbs
- Sierra 1500: 4,000 lbs
- Sierra 2500: 10,500 lbs
- Sierra 3500: 10,000 lbs
- Yukon: 5,700 lbs
- Yukon XL: 7,500 lbs
2007 GMC Lineup
- Acadia: 2,000 lbs (New compact crossover)
- Canyon: 2,300 lbs
- Envoy: 5,300 lbs
- Savana 1500: 4,300 lbs
- Savana 2500: 6,300 lbs
- Savana 3500: 6,200 lbs
- Sierra 1500: 4,800 lbs
- Sierra 2500: 10,400 lbs
- Sierra 3500: 10,100 lbs
- Yukon: 4,500 lbs
- Yukon XL: 7,100 lbs
2008 GMC Lineup
- Acadia: 2,000 lbs
- Canyon: 2,400 lbs
- Envoy: 5,300 lbs
- Savana 1500: 4,300 lbs
- Savana 2500: 6,300 lbs
- Savana 3500: 6,200 lbs
- Sierra 1500: 4,800 lbs
- Sierra 2500: 10,400 lbs
- Sierra 3500: 10,100 lbs
- Yukon: 4,500 lbs
- Yukon Hybrid: 6,200 lbs
- Yukon XL: 7,100 lbs
2009 GMC Lineup
- Acadia: 2,000 lbs
- Canyon: 2,400 lbs
- Envoy: 5,300 lbs
- Savana 1500: 4,300 lbs
- Savana 2500: 6,300 lbs
- Savana 3500: 6,200 lbs
- Sierra 1500: 4,800 lbs
- Sierra 2500: 10,500 lbs
- Sierra 3500: 10,100 lbs
- Sierra Hybrid: Not available
- Yukon: 4,800 lbs
- Yukon Hybrid: 6,200 lbs
- Yukon XL: 5,100 lbs
Note: The Yukon Hybrid had a lower towing capacity than the standard V8 in 2009, despite having similar engine displacement. The electric assist helped efficiency, not brute pull.
Honda
Honda took a conservative approach. Unless you had a Ridgeline or an Odyssey, you weren’t towing much. The Pilot and CR-V had strict limits, reflecting their unibody construction and focus on family hauling rather than heavy work. The Civic Hybrid was even lighter on the towing front.
2006 Honda Lineup
- Accord: 1,000 lbs
- Accord Hybrid: Not rated
- Civic: 1,500 lbs
- Civic Hybrid: 1,000 lbs
- CR-V: Not rated
- Element: 1,500 lbs
- Insight: Not rated
- Odyssey: 3,500 lbs
- Pilot: 3,500 lbs
- Ridgeline: 5,000 lbs
- S2000: Not rated
2007 Honda Lineup
- Accord: 1,000 lbs
- Accord Hybrid: Not rated
- Civic: 1,500 lbs
- Civic Hybrid: 1,000 lbs
- CR-V: Not rated
- Element: 1,500 lbs
- Fit: Not rated
- Odyssey: 3,500 lbs
- Pilot: Not rated (Some sources say 3,500, but early models had issues)
- Ridgeline: Not rated (First year, limited availability)
- S2000: Not rated
2008 Honda Lineup
- Accord: Not rated
- Civic: 1,500 lbs
- Civic Hybrid: 1,000 lbs
- CR-V: Not rated
- Element: 1,500 lbs
- Fit: Not rated
- Odyssey: 3,500 lbs
- Pilot: 3,500 lbs
- Ridgeline: 5,000 lbs
- S2000: Not rated
2009 Honda Lineup
- Accord: Not rated
- Civic: 1,000 lbs (Reduced from previous years)
- Civic Hybrid: Not rated
- Fit: Not rated
- Odyssey: 3,500 lbs
- Pilot: 3,500 lbs
Hummer
When you buy a Hummer, you buy it for torque. The H2 was a land yacht with a big heart, capable of pulling substantial loads. The H3 was smaller but still respectable. The H1 Alpha was a niche beast for the military-to-civilian crowd.
2006 Hummer Lineup
- H1 Alpha: 7,887 lbs
- H2: 6,500 lbs
- H3: 3,000 lbs
2007 Hummer Lineup
- H2: 6,600 lbs
- H3: 3,000 lbs
2008 Hummer Lineup
- H2: 8,200 lbs
- H3: 3,000 lbs
2009 Hummer Lineup
- H2: 8,200 lbs
- H3: 3,000 lbs
- H3T: 4,400 lbs (The pickup
Lexus Towing Limits by Year
The Lexus lineup from 2006 to 2009 shows a distinct split between luxury sedans and serious off-roaders. If you are looking at the 2006 Lexus towing capacity, the GX 470 and LX 470 are the heavy lifters here. Both can pull up to 6,500 lbs. The RX 330 and RX 400h are limited to 3,500 lbs, which covers most light trailers. The LS 430 is surprisingly weak at only 2,000 lbs. The rest of the sedans—the ES 330, GS 300, GS 430, IS 250, IS 350, and SC 430—cannot tow anything.
By 2007, the LS 460 replaces the older model, but it drops out of the towing game entirely. The RX 350 joins the RX 400h with a 3,500 lb limit. The GX 470 and LX 470 hold steady at 6,500 lbs. The new GS 450h and LS 460 have zero towing capability.
The 2008 model year brings significant changes. The 2008 Lexus LX 570 jumps to an 8,500 lb capacity, making it the most capable tow vehicle in the brand’s history for this period. However, the RX 350 and RX 400h see a drastic reduction in capability, dropping to just 2,000 lbs. The IS-F and LS 600h are strictly non-towing models. The GX 470 remains at 6,500 lbs.
In 2009, the LX 570 keeps its 8,500 lb rating. The RX 350 stays at the low 2,000 lb limit. The GX 470 continues at 6,500 lbs. The IS-F, IS 350, IS 250, ES 350, and SC 430 have no towing capacity.
For those needing to calculate payload alongside towing, checking the Lexus GVWR and Lexus GAWR is essential. You also need to look at Lexus Cargo Carrying Capacity and Lexus Payload to ensure you aren’t overloading the suspension before you even hook up a trailer.
Lincoln Towing Capacity Guide
Lincoln’s towing options were largely dominated by the Navigator and the Mark LT. In 2006, the Navigator can tow 6,000 lbs. The Mark LT, which is essentially a Ford F-150 in a tuxedo, handles 8,900 lbs. The Town Car is limited to 2,000 lbs. The LS, Zephyr, and Mark LT (wait, Mark LT is listed) have specific limits. The LS and Zephyr cannot tow.
The 2007 and 2008 models see the introduction of the MKX, which is rated for a modest 2,000 lbs. The MKZ appears in 2007 but has no towing capacity. The Mark LT stays at 8,900 lbs. The Navigator remains at 6,000 lbs. The Town Car is stuck at 2,000 lbs.
By 2009, the MKS enters the scene with a 1,000 lb limit. The MKX stays at 2,000 lbs. The MKZ still cannot tow. The Navigator holds at 6,000 lbs, and the Town Car at 2,000 lbs.
If you are planning to tow with a Lincoln, verify the Lincoln GVWR and Lincoln GAWR. The Lincoln GCWR will tell you the total weight the vehicle can move. Don’t ignore the Lincoln Cargo Carrying Capacity or Lincoln Curb Weight when calculating your tongue weight.
Mazda Towing Numbers
Mazda’s offerings in this era were mostly trucks and small SUVs. The Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, and sports cars like the MX-5 and RX-8 generally couldn’t tow anything.
In 2006, the B-series trucks were the workhorses. The B2300 could pull 1,600 lbs. The B3000 handled 2,500 lbs. The B4000, which is a rebadged Ford Ranger, topped this list at 3,140 lbs. The MPV minivan could tow 2,000 lbs. The Tribute SUV was rated for 1,500 lbs.
The 2007 model year added the CX-7 and CX-9. Both are rated for 2,000 lbs. The B2300 dropped slightly to 1,580 lbs. The B3000 went to 2,480 lbs. The B4000 stayed at 3,100 lbs. The Tribute remained at 1,500 lbs.
In 2008, the B2300 returned to 1,600 lbs. The B4000 is at 3,140 lbs. The CX-7 and CX-9 stay at 2,000 lbs. The Tribute Hybrid gets a slight bump to 2,000 lbs, while the standard Tribute stays at 1,500 lbs. The B3000 disappeared from the lineup.
The 2009 lineup kept the B2300 at 1,600 lbs and the B4000 at 3,140 lbs. The CX-7 and CX-9 remained at 2,000 lbs. The Tribute stayed at 1,500 lbs. The new MazdaSpeed3 and other sedans had no towing capacity.
Check the Mazda GVWR and Mazda GAWR before loading a trailer. The Mazda GCWR is critical for understanding the total system weight. Look at Mazda Cargo Carrying Capacity and Mazda Curb Weight to avoid suspension sag.
Mercedes-Benz Towing Specs
Mercedes had a wide range of options, but many sedans and coupes simply couldn’t tow. The C-Class, CL-Class, CLK-Class, CLS-Class, E-Class, R-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, SLK-Class, and SLR McLaren had no towing capacity in most years.
In 2006, the ML350 and ML500 could tow 2,000 lbs. That was it.
The 2007 model year saw a massive increase in capability for the SUVs. The G500 could tow 7,000 lbs. The GL320 handled 7,500 lbs. The GL450 did 7,000 lbs. The ML350, ML320, ML500, and ML63 AMG all rated for 7,200 lbs. This was a significant jump from the previous year.
In 2008, the GL320, GL450, and GL550 all held steady at 7,500 lbs. The G500 and G55 stayed at 7,000 lbs. The ML320, ML350, ML550, and ML63 AMG remained at 7,200 lbs. The sedan and coupe lines still couldn’t tow.
By 2009, the R-Class finally gained a rating of 3,500 lbs. The GL450 and GL550 stayed at 7,500 lbs. The ML350, ML320, ML550, and ML63 AMG stayed at 7,200 lbs. The CLS 550, C-Class, CL-Class, CLK-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, and SLK-Class had no towing capacity.
Always check the Mercedes-Benz GVWR and Mercedes-Benz GAWR. The Mercedes-Benz GCWR will define your absolute limits. Review Mercedes-Benz Cargo Carrying Capacity and Mercedes-Benz Curb Weight to ensure your payload isn’t exceeding the rear axle limits.
Mercury Towing Capacity
Mercury shared many platforms with Ford, and the towing numbers reflect that. The Grand Marquis and Mariner were common choices.
In 2006, the Grand
Pontiac towing capacity
Pontiac’s product line has been a combination of sedan platforms and SUVs for years. If you are looking for 2006-2009 Pontiac towing capacity, these numbers will vary greatly depending on whether you are towing a small trailer or a heavier trailer.
The G6, GTO, Grand Prix and G5 are all limited to 1,000 lbs. It’s light. Motorcycles and mobile vehicles mounted on small utility trailers are also covered, but with little substance. The price of a vibrator dropped from £1,500 in 2006-2008 to £1,000 in 2009.
The heavier duties went to the Montana SV6, the Trent and later the G8. These models hold up to 3,500 lbs. Introduced in 2008, the G8 featured a V8 engine and increased curb weight to 2,000 lbs. The Solstice? You cannot tow anything. This is a roadster. Put it in your gear bag or leave it at home.
Porsche towing capacity
Porsche doesn’t waste time with every model. The 911, Boxster and Cayman are not technically towable vehicles. Zero pounds. If you want to pull a trailer, look elsewhere.
The Cayenne was the workhorse. From 2006 to 2009, it always offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,716 lbs. That’s some serious power. On paper, many trucks look bad.
Saab Towing Capacity
Saab’s strategy was straightforward. 9-3 is a modest, understated compact sedan. Both 2006 and 2009 models have a maximum weight of 2,000 lbs.
The 9-5 carried more weight, rated for 3,500 lbs across all four years. So as long as you stay within your limits, it’s a viable option if you have a small travel trailer or boat.
The 9-7X, essentially a rebadged Chevy Trailblazer, that can tow up to 5,500 pounds. It shares its mechanicals with GM trucks, so its towing numbers reflect that heritage.
Saturn Towing Capacity
Saturn’s last few years have been a mix of compact cars and large SUVs. The Ion and Aura were limited to 1,000 lbs. VUE is in the middle of 1,500 lbs and has been consistent from 2006 to 2009, including the hybrid version.
The Relay minivan and Outlook SUV can handle heavier loads. Both were rated for 3,500 lbs and 2,000 lbs respectively. The Sky convertible has no towing capacity.
Scion Towing Capacity
Scion played it safe. The tC, xB, and xD were all rated with zero towing capacity. They are transporters, not haulers. Do not attach a hitch.
smart Towing Capacity
The Smart Fortwo released in 2008 was too small. No towing capacity. It is designed for use by one or two people in tight spaces in urban areas, not for carrying cargo.
Subaru towing capacity
Subaru has always focused on four-wheel drive and practicality. The towing numbers here are practical and varied.
The B9 Tribeca and Legacy/Outback platforms dominate the premium segment. From 2006 to 2009, these models have always had a towing capacity of 2,700 lbs on the Legacy and Outback models and 3,500 lbs on the Tribeca.
The Forester sat at 2,400 lbs from 2006 to 2008. Loss of classification in 2009, probably due to changes in the annual model or data gaps.
Impreza is difficult. 2006 and 2007 Wagon and Outback Sport trims can hold up to 2,000 lbs. By 2008-2009, the Impreza line had completely lost traction with its sedan, wagon, and WRX STI models.
The Baja pickup truck is a niche market with a value of 2400lbs in 2006.
Suzuki towing capacity
Suzuki’s products are mainly compact SUVs. Grand Vitara and XL7 are heavy series.
In 2006 and 2007, the Grand Vitara towed 3,000 lbs. The XL7 increases this weight to 3,500 lbs in 2007 and 2008. The Forenza and Reno sedans have a weight limit of 1,000 lbs.
By 2009, the Grand Vitara and XL7 lost their towing ratings, leaving the brand with no clear towing options for those model years.
Toyota towing capacity
There has been significant development in Toyota’s product range, especially in the heavy-duty segment.
The Land Cruiser has made a big leap. It started at £6,500 in 2006 and 2007, rose to £8,500 in 2008 and reached £9,935 in 2009. This is an amazing increase.
The Tundra peaked at 6,800 lbs in 2006, dropped to 4,800 lbs in 2007-2008, and 2009 ratings are not included in this data set.
The Sequoia has improved over time: 6,500 lbs (2006), 7,800 lbs (2008), 7,800 lbs (trends are indicative; 2009 data not available here, but the peak shown is 2008). Wait. The list price for the 2008 Sequoia is £7,800.
Midsize models like the 4Runner and FJ Cruiser weigh in at a flat 5,000 pounds.
Sienna, Tacoma and Highlander Hybrid prices range from £3,500 to £3,500 (2007-2009 Highlander Hybrid). The standard Highlander starts at 1,500 pounds in 2006 and rises to 2,000 pounds in 2008-2009.
Small cars like the Camry, Avalon and Corolla have a weight limit of 1,000 to 1,500 pounds. Prius and Yaris have no towing capacity.
Volkswagen’s bet
Until the Touareg, Volkswagen was conservative in its approach.
The Touareg was the only model with significant towing capacity during this period. Weight in 2006, 2007 and 2009 is 7,716 lbs. Although sources do not include exact numbers for the 2008 Touareg 2 designation, the model year change indicates that the design is due for a facelift.
Most Volkswagens do not have towing capacity, including the Golf, Jetta, GTI, Passat, Beetle, Rabbit and Eos.
Introduced in 2009, the Routan minibus can carry 2,000 pounds. The Tiguan is also new for 2009 and costs £2,200. These numbers reflect crossover status, not truck-like practicality.
Towing restrictions by year and model
If you’re considering an older Volvo, the towing story varies greatly by model year. Actual numbers are shown for 2006 models. The S60 can handle up to 3,300 pounds. This was quite a limit for a sedan at the time. What else is in the 2006 lineup? All models C70, S40, S80, V50, V70, XC70 and XC90 have dashes. This usually means that it does not have a towing rating for the US market, or the information is simply missing from the standard specification.
The situation was grim in 2007 and 2008. The C30 came on the market in 2008, but it also shows no towing capacity. S60, S80, V50, V70, XC70, XC90 drop their ratings or leave them blank. If you try to tow your 2007 or 2008 Volvo without the owner’s manual, you’re flying blind. The dashes shows that these years lack the factory-approved towing packages on many configurations.
There is no clarity in 2009 either. C30, C70, S40, S60, S80, V50, V70, XC70 and XC90 all show empty slots. For the past several years, zero towing capacity has been assumed unless there is documentation from the dealer confirming that a specific towing package has been installed. The only clear winner at the 3300 lb mark in 2006 was the S60.
Understand the rest of the numbers
Towing is not just a matter of what the hitch can handle. You must fully understand the weight limits. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) indicates the maximum weight of the vehicle itself, plus passengers, fuel and cargo. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is divided between the front and rear axles. Don’t overload the rear axle just because the overall GVWR looks good.
Next is the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). This is the total weight of the car and trailer. If your Volvo has a GCWR of 10,000 lbs and your car weighs 4,000 lbs, the weight limit for the trailer and its load is 6,000 lbs. But wait. The vehicle’s weight and payload are also important. Payload means the amount that a vehicle can carry. Placing a heavy bike on the back affects the towing safety margin.
Cargo capacity is also part of the puzzle. Every pound of stuff in the trunk less for the trailer tongue weight. Check the sticker on the door frame. It has the specific limits for your VIN. General tables are guides. The sticker is the law.
＞”If there is no description in the manual, it will not be evaluated.”
This rule applies to almost all Volvo cars listed above. The dashes aren’t typos. They are warnings. For a 2006 S60, the 3300 lb mark is a tough cap. For the rest, assume you are not towing. If towing is necessary, verify the chassis and
