2025 Hyundai Tucson Towing Guide: How to Tow Up to 3,500 Pounds with the Hyundai Tucson

2025 Hyundai Tucson Towing Guide: How to Tow Up to 3,500 Pounds with the Hyundai Tucson

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson continues to offer versatility and value in the compact SUV segment, and one area where it stands out is its towing capability—especially when equipped with the right powertrain and towing equipment. For drivers who need to haul a small trailer, camper, or utility load, understanding exactly what the Tucson can handle is crucial.

The Tucson lineup offers several engine options, including gas-powered, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, each with varying capabilities. One of the big changes in 2025 is that every new Tucson features standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and with that comes impression towing capacity in every trim.


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Powertrain Options in the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Lineup

2025 Hyundai Tucson PHEV


For 2025, the Hyundai Tucson is available with three primary powertrain configurations:

  • A 2.5-litre Smartstream GDI 4-cylinder gasoline engine, paired with standard AW
  • A 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain, paired with an electric motor and standard AWD
  • A 1.6-litre turbocharged plug-in hybrid (PHEV), with a larger battery and electric motor, also paired with standard AWD

Towing Capacity Breakdown by Powertrain and Configuration

The towing capacity of the 2025 Hyundai Tucson varies significantly based on the powertrain and whether or not the trailer being towed is equipped with its own braking system. In general, front-wheel drive gasoline models offer the lowest towing capacity, while properly equipped AWD gas-powered versions provide the highest.

With the 2.5-litre gasoline engine, the Tucson can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg) when using a braked trailer. Without trailer brakes, the limit is 1,650 pounds (750 kg). This makes it suitable for small utility trailers, compact cargo haulers, or light camping gear.

The 1.6-litre hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, while more efficient, are slightly less capable when it comes to towing. These trims come standard with all-wheel drive and benefit from the extra torque provided by the electric motor. When equipped with a braked trailer, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions can tow up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg). Without a trailer brake, their capacity is 1,650 pounds (750 kg).

It's important to note that these maximum ratings are only achievable when the vehicle is equipped with the appropriate towing equipment, including a Class II or III hitch, trailer wiring harness, and—critically for the highest tow rating—a trailer with its own independent braking system.

Towing Capabilities by Trim Level

2025 Hyundai Tucson


The 2025 Tucson is offered in several trims across its three powertrain categories: Preferred, XRT, N Line (HEV), and Ultimate (PHEV). Each trim’s towing capabilities depend on the powertrain it’s paired with.

The Preferred is the entry-level model, equipped with the 2.5L gas engine and all-wheel drive. This version is best suited for minimal towing tasks, with a 3,500-pound maximum rating when using a braked trailer, and 1,650 pounds without trailer brakes.

Upgrading to the Preferred AWD brings better all-weather capability and maintains the 3,500-pound towing limit with trailer brakes. This setup is practical for occasional hauling or a compact trailer.

The N Line AWD and Urban AWD, also powered by the 2.5L engine, offer the same 3,500-pound towing maximum with a braked trailer but add more style and features.

Where towing needs are moderate, the Luxury Hybrid and Ultimate Hybrid AWD trims provide a 2,000-pound towing capacity with a braked trailer. These trims are ideal for families who want a capable tow vehicle for a vacation trailer without stepping up to a midsize VUS.

The Plug-in Hybrid Ultimate trim offers the same 2,000-pound capability, along with electric-only driving range. It combines low running costs with solid towing performance for environmentally conscious buyers who still need towing capacity.

2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT


2025 Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity Table

Powertrain

Drive Type

Braked Towing Capacity

Unbraked Towing Capacity

2.5L Gasoline

AWD

3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)

1,650 lbs (750 kg)

1.6L Hybrid (HEV)

AWD

2,000 lbs (907 kg)

1,650 lbs (750 kg)

1.6L Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

AWD

2,000 lbs (907 kg)

1,650 lbs (750 kg)

Conclusion

The 2025 Hyundai Tucson offers a wide range of towing capacities to suit a variety of needs. While base models provide respectable capabilities, buyers who need maximum towing should opt for the gas-powered versions with AWD and ensure they use a braked trailer. When properly equipped, the Tucson delivers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, making it one of the most versatile compact SUVs in its class for towing.

If you're considering a 2025 Tucson and towing is part of your lifestyle—whether it’s for recreation, work, or weekend trips—Cooksville Hyundai can help you find the trim that matches your needs and ensure your Tucson is equipped to handle your towing tasks safely and efficiently.


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