Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity Overview
If you're planning a weekend trip with a travel trailer or need to haul some extra equipment for work, you may be wondering about the Hyundai Tucson towing capacity. This is a compact SUV, and its advantages include the ability to maneuver tight spaces easily. However, upgrades for 2026 ensure that this compact SUV feels anything but compact while you hitch up: its new and improved towing capacity is 2,750 pounds.1 Keep reading to learn more about this SUV's capabilities and available technology features. When you're ready to experience the Tucson SUV in person, visit McGee Hyundai of Lebanon in New Hampshire.
Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity at a Glance
- The 2026 Hyundai Tucson can tow 2,750 pounds1 with trailer brakes or 1,650 pounds1 without trailer brakes.
- Three variants of this bold SUV are available – the Tucson, Tucson Hybrid, and Tucson Plug-In Hybrid – with the Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid reaching a maximum of 2,000 pounds of tow capacity when properly equipped.
- Every Hyundai Tucson has competitive features that offer confidence on the road, including a standard Blind-Spot Collision Warning system.
- This car's upgraded towing capacity bolsters the already impressive Hyundai Tucson cargo-hauling abilities, ensuring every vacation has unbelievable flexibility.
Capable & Powerful: The Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
The new Hyundai Tucson for sale offers three powertrain options: the most robust (for towing) is the standard gas engine, which can access that incredible 2,750-pound maximum towing capacity.1 The other two, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines, are also capable, though only for 2,000-pound trailers.1
Let's start with the standard. The gas-only powertrain is a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC for smooth, responsive performance. It pairs with standard front-wheel drive for impressive fuel efficiency, but you can opt for the available HTRAC all-wheel drive for improved traction and control in any road conditions.
If you want a more eco-friendly option, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) models come equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four turbo engine that delivers 178 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. However, the mild-hybrid variant's 47.7-kW motor increases output to 231 horsepower, while the PHEV model's 72-kW motor delivers a combined 268 horsepower. Both hybrid types use a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC.
We'll explore what the Hyundai Tucson specs mean for towing by trim below.
Hyundai Tucson Towing Capability & Trim Levels
There are many Hyundai Tucson trim levels and variant models available for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson, each with unique features and upgrades. The trim levels and their corresponding maximum towing capacities are listed below:
Gas-Powered Models
- Hyundai Tucson SE: 2,750 pounds (with trailer brakes)1
- Hyundai Tucson SEL: 2,750 pounds (with trailer brakes)1
- Hyundai Tucson SEL Premium: 2,750 pounds (with trailer brakes)1
- Hyundai Tucson XRT: 2,750 pounds (with trailer brakes)1
- Hyundai Tucson Limited: 2,750 pounds (with trailer brakes)1
Hybrid Models
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Blue SE: 2,000 pounds1
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid SEL: 2,000 pounds1
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid SEL Convenience: 2,000 pounds1
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited: 2,000 pounds1
Plug-in Hybrid Models
- Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid SEL: 2,000 pounds1
- Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid Limited: 2,000 pounds1
More Information About the Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
As you can see, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson towing capacity is rather impressive, whether it's the hybrid options or the newly upgraded all-gas configuration. However, all of these models can only safely tow 1,650 pounds1 without trailer brakes. In addition, as you approach the Hyundai Tucson payload capacity listed in your owner's manual, your towing capacity gets lower. Factor in your trailer's tongue weight before packing your Hyundai SUV too full.
Hyundai Tucson Towing Technology & Features
So, how else does the Hyundai SUV support your day-to-day excursions? To access its maximum 2,750-pound tow rating,1 the Tucson requires a tow hitch. This hitch is on the rear of your model and is an accessory on most Tucson trims: the SE, SEL, SEL Premium, and Limited variants have it as an add-on, while the XRT iteration comes with it. The new Hyundai Tucson Hybrid for sale and its PHEV sibling also need to be equipped with a hitch.
Thankfully, all models of the 2026 Tucson come with trailer pre-wiring, simplifying the process of setting up trailer lights and brakes. It also comes with safety features such as standard Downhill Brake Control, which slows your descent and supports your SUV – even with heavy trailers behind you. Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control further aids your ability to turn and handle a trailer.
What about standard safety systems? Consider the Surround View Monitor, available on the Limited trim, to simplify parking-space entry. Standard Smart Cruise Control can guide you safely behind other cars and even estimate braking time, though we recommend always practicing your braking with a trailer in a safe, controlled environment – even with systems like Smart Cruise Control 2 and Highway Driving Assist 1.
Which Trim Is Best for Hyundai Tucson Towing?
Choosing the best trim for your Hyundai Tucson towing capacity is fairly easy. Follow these preferences:
- Do You Like Towing More? Go Gas. With a towing capacity of 2,750 pounds, the gasoline-only Tucson is generally better at hauling than its hybrid contemporaries.
- Do You Need Extra Off-Roading Capability? Go XRT. The gas XRT sports a standard tow hitch, exterior cladding, and LED daytime running lights. It's not the best pick for the most dangerous roads in the USA, but it handles gravel, dirt, and mud better than most other Tucson models.
- Do You Want Extra Safety Features? Go Limited. While the XRT has a standard tow hitch, the Limited offers additional safety technologies like the Surround View Camera and Smart Cruise Control 2.
Turn Heads Behind the Wheel of a Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a dynamic and inventive SUV, perfect for family vacations and commuting alike. With its newly increased towing capacity, the gas-fed Tucson rivals the versatility of the hybrid models, standing out as the perfect pick for beach vacations with canoes or camping trips with lots of gear.
Visit McGee Hyundai of Lebanon to explore this SUV in all its glory. Our dedicated representatives will help you explore all trim levels and variants of the Hyundai Tucson to determine what model best pairs with your lifestyle. Maybe you need to tow small vehicles to the campsite, or you're looking for a consistent family commuter for drives in New Hampshire. The Hyundai Tucson does it all.
However, what if you require a slightly larger SUV for your growing family? We can help you compare Hyundai SUV sizes before you even come to our door! Our team will make sure you get the right towing capacity and cargo space you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any additional equipment to tow with a Hyundai Tucson?
Yes, to properly tow with the Hyundai Tucson, you require a tow hitch. This Hyundai Tucson towing package is simple; it revolves around a tow hitch mounted on the back of your SUV. This is an option on every Tucson trim except for the XRT variant, which comes with it. Every Tucson equipped with a hitch has standard trailer pre-wiring, simplifying the process of setting up your vacation.
Can a Hyundai Tucson tow a boat?
Yes, the Hyundai Tucson can tow a boat as long as it's below 2,750 pounds.1 To do so, the boat's trailer needs a brake, and the trailer and boat must weigh less than the towing capacity of your Hyundai Tucson after everything else is added – including coolers, fishing poles, and oars. You'll also have to calculate your payload limit, including the trailer's tongue weight.
How heavy a trailer can a Hyundai Tucson tow?
The Hyundai Tucson is capable of towing up to 2,750 pounds when properly equipped with the optional tow hitch (standard on the Hyundai Tucson XRT). Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid owners can tow 2,000 pounds.1 If your trailer doesn't have brakes, the Tucson can only tow 1,650 pounds, whether or not the model is a hybrid .1
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1Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.
