Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity (2025): Complete Guide to Maximize Your SUV’s Potential

When it comes to balancing style, practicality, and towing performance, the Hyundai Tucson has consistently set the bar high among compact SUVs. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the Hyundai Tucson’s towing capacity across model years, engine configurations, and trim levels — helping you understand exactly how much weight your Tucson can confidently tow.
- Overview of Hyundai Tucson Towing Power
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
- 2024 Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
- Towing Capacity by Engine Type
- Braked vs. Unbraked Towing Explained
- Hyundai Tucson Trim-Level Towing Comparison
- Towing Capacity by Model Year (2018–2025)
- Tow Package and Hitch Information
- Trailer Hitch Classes and Options
- How to Check if Your Tucson Has a Tow Package
- Tips for Safe Towing with the Tucson
- Towing Accessories Worth Considering
- Real-World Towing Performance Insights
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion: The Tucson’s Towing Edge
Overview of Hyundai Tucson Towing Power
The Hyundai Tucson, introduced in 2004, has evolved into a well-rounded compact SUV known for its sleek design, safety features, and efficient powertrains. While it’s not built for heavy-duty hauling, the Tucson confidently handles small trailers, jet skis, or lightweight campers — making it a versatile choice for families and adventurers alike.
Across its lineup, the Tucson’s maximum towing capacity ranges between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds (680–907 kg), depending on engine type, drivetrain, and whether the trailer is braked or unbraked.
2025 Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson continues with the same robust towing structure as the 2024 model year. Regardless of the trim or powertrain, the Tucson maintains a towing capacity of up to 2,000 lbs when properly equipped.
| Trim Level | Engine Type | Drivetrain | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE | 2.5L 4-Cylinder Gas | FWD / AWD | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| SEL | 2.5L 4-Cylinder Gas | FWD / AWD | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| XRT | 2.5L 4-Cylinder Gas | AWD | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| Limited | 1.6L Turbo Hybrid | AWD | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| Plug-In Hybrid Limited | 1.6L Turbo PHEV | AWD | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
✅ Maximum Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (braked)
⚠️ Unbraked Towing Capacity: 1,000 lbs
2024 Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
For 2024, Hyundai maintained the same performance benchmarks across trims and hybrid options.
| Trim | Engine | Horsepower / Torque | Max Towing (Braked) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE / SEL / XRT / Limited | 2.5L Gas | 187 hp / 178 lb-ft | 2,000 lbs |
| Hybrid SEL / Limited | 1.6L Turbo Hybrid | 180 hp / 195 lb-ft | 2,000 lbs |
| Plug-In Hybrid | 1.6L Turbo + Electric | 261 hp / 258 lb-ft | 2,000 lbs |
Every 2024 Tucson configuration supports light recreational towing, from small boats to compact utility trailers.
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Hyundai Tucson Boot Capacity and Practicality Guide (2025 Update)Towing Capacity by Engine Type
2.5L 4-Cylinder Gasoline Engine
- Power: 187 hp
- Torque: 178 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs
- Ideal for everyday towing and moderate payloads.
1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid Engine
- Power: 180 hp
- Torque: 195 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs
- Balances performance and efficiency with electric assist for smoother towing.
1.6L Turbo Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
- Power: 261 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs
- Strongest powertrain option, offering instant torque and better low-end pull.
Braked vs. Unbraked Towing Explained
| Type | Towing Capacity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Braked Trailer | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | Equipped with its own braking system — allows heavier loads. |
| Unbraked Trailer | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) | No independent brakes — recommended for lighter items like small utility trailers or bikes. |
Hyundai Tucson Trim-Level Towing Comparison
| Trim | Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE | 2.5L Gas | 187 | 178 | 2,000 |
| SEL | 2.5L Gas | 187 | 178 | 2,000 |
| N Line | 1.6L Hybrid | 187 | 178 | 2,000 |
| XRT | 1.6L Hybrid | 187 | 178 | 2,000 |
| Limited | 1.6L Hybrid | 187 | 178 | 2,000 |
All trims across both hybrid and gas variants maintain a consistent 2,000-lb limit.
Towing Capacity by Model Year (2018–2025)
| Model Year | Towing Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2,000 lbs | All trims / engines |
| 2024 | 2,000 lbs | Same across gas, hybrid, and PHEV |
| 2023 | 2,000 lbs | Hybrid and PHEV retain full capacity |
| 2022 | 2,000 lbs | Full redesign year; new platform |
| 2021 | 2,000 lbs | Final year of prior gen |
| 2020 | 2,000 lbs | 2.0L / 2.4L engines |
| 2019 | 2,000 lbs | Same as 2020 |
| 2018 | 1,500–2,000 lbs | 1.6L Turbo models limited to 1,500 lbs |
Tow Package and Hitch Information
Hyundai offers an optional factory tow package including:
- Class II receiver hitch
- 4-pin wiring harness
- Standard inclusion on XRT trim
- Optional upgrade on other trims
If your Tucson doesn’t have a factory tow setup, it’s simple to retrofit using an aftermarket Class II hitch.
Trailer Hitch Classes and Options
The Hyundai Tucson supports Class II hitches — perfect for compact trailers.
| Hitch Type | Receiver Size | Max Capacity | Example Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | 1¼-inch | 3,500 lbs GTW / 300 lbs TW | CURT 12126 |
| Ball Mount | 2-inch ball | 3,500 lbs rated | CURT 45148 |
💡 Pro Tip: Always choose a hitch and ball mount rated higher than your Tucson’s towing limit to maintain safety margins.
How to Check if Your Tucson Has a Tow Package
- Inspect beneath the rear bumper for a tow hitch receiver.
- Look for a 4-pin wiring harness near the rear.
- Check your window sticker or VIN lookup at a Hyundai dealership.
- Review purchase documentation — factory-installed packages will be listed.
Tips for Safe Towing with the Tucson
- Distribute trailer weight evenly (60% front / 40% rear).
- Keep tongue weight below 10–15% of total trailer weight.
- Use trailer brakes for loads over 1,000 lbs.
- Avoid overloading — even with light trailers.
- Regularly check tire pressure and brake function.
- Drive cautiously — braking distances increase when towing.
Towing Accessories Worth Considering
- CURT Class 2 Trailer Hitch Receiver (1¼-inch)
- CURT 45148 Ball Mount Kit
- Trailer Wiring Harness (OEM or aftermarket 4-pin)
- Trailer Brake Controller (for heavier loads)
- Tow Mirrors and Camera Extension Kits
Real-World Towing Performance Insights
In real-world conditions, Tucson owners report smooth towing stability at highway speeds, especially with the AWD hybrid and plug-in variants. The hybrid’s electric torque assists low-end pull, while the 2.5L gas engine provides steady power for continuous towing.
However, due to the Tucson’s compact SUV frame, staying within the 2,000-lb limit ensures safety and optimal performance. Exceeding that threshold may strain the transmission or cooling system.
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1. What is the towing capacity of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson?
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) when properly equipped.
2. Can the Hyundai Tucson tow a small camper?
Yes. The Tucson can tow lightweight campers under 2,000 lbs, such as teardrop trailers or pop-ups.
3. Does the Tucson require trailer brakes?
For loads over 1,000 lbs, trailer brakes are recommended for improved safety and control.
4. What hitch class does the Tucson use?
The Tucson is rated for Class II hitches with a 1¼-inch receiver.
5. Is the hybrid or PHEV better for towing?
The Plug-In Hybrid provides the best torque for towing, offering 258 lb-ft of instant electric-assisted pull.
Conclusion: The Tucson’s Towing Edge
The Hyundai Tucson offers a confident and consistent towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds, balancing efficiency, safety, and versatility. Whether you choose the gas, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid version, the Tucson handles small trailers and recreational gear effortlessly — making it one of the most capable compact SUVs for light towing in its class.
For those seeking an SUV that combines efficiency, technology, and practical towing ability, the Hyundai Tucson stands as a smart, reliable, and adventure-ready choice.
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