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.

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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 LevelEngine TypeDrivetrainTowing Capacity
SE2.5L 4-Cylinder GasFWD / AWD2,000 lbs (907 kg)
SEL2.5L 4-Cylinder GasFWD / AWD2,000 lbs (907 kg)
XRT2.5L 4-Cylinder GasAWD2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Limited1.6L Turbo HybridAWD2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Plug-In Hybrid Limited1.6L Turbo PHEVAWD2,000 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.

TrimEngineHorsepower / TorqueMax Towing (Braked)
SE / SEL / XRT / Limited2.5L Gas187 hp / 178 lb-ft2,000 lbs
Hybrid SEL / Limited1.6L Turbo Hybrid180 hp / 195 lb-ft2,000 lbs
Plug-In Hybrid1.6L Turbo + Electric261 hp / 258 lb-ft2,000 lbs

Every 2024 Tucson configuration supports light recreational towing, from small boats to compact utility trailers.

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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

TypeTowing CapacityDescription
Braked Trailer2,000 lbs (907 kg)Equipped with its own braking system — allows heavier loads.
Unbraked Trailer1,000 lbs (454 kg)No independent brakes — recommended for lighter items like small utility trailers or bikes.

Hyundai Tucson Trim-Level Towing Comparison

TrimEngineHorsepowerTorque (lb-ft)Towing Capacity (lbs)
SE2.5L Gas1871782,000
SEL2.5L Gas1871782,000
N Line1.6L Hybrid1871782,000
XRT1.6L Hybrid1871782,000
Limited1.6L Hybrid1871782,000

All trims across both hybrid and gas variants maintain a consistent 2,000-lb limit.


Towing Capacity by Model Year (2018–2025)

Model YearTowing RangeNotes
20252,000 lbsAll trims / engines
20242,000 lbsSame across gas, hybrid, and PHEV
20232,000 lbsHybrid and PHEV retain full capacity
20222,000 lbsFull redesign year; new platform
20212,000 lbsFinal year of prior gen
20202,000 lbs2.0L / 2.4L engines
20192,000 lbsSame as 2020
20181,500–2,000 lbs1.6L 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 TypeReceiver SizeMax CapacityExample Product
Class II1¼-inch3,500 lbs GTW / 300 lbs TWCURT 12126
Ball Mount2-inch ball3,500 lbs ratedCURT 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

  1. Inspect beneath the rear bumper for a tow hitch receiver.
  2. Look for a 4-pin wiring harness near the rear.
  3. Check your window sticker or VIN lookup at a Hyundai dealership.
  4. 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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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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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