Every 2026 Hyundai SUV Ranked by Towing Capacity
Every 2026 Hyundai SUV Ranked by Towing Capacity
Posted on March 31, 2026
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to the Grand River or hauling equipment for a DIY project in Kitchener-Waterloo, knowing your vehicle's towing capacity is essential. For 2026, Hyundai has engineered its SUV lineup to provide a wide range of capabilities, from efficient electric towing to heavy-duty hauling.
At Cambridge Hyundai, we want to ensure you choose the SUV that perfectly matches your lifestyle. Below, we have ranked the 2026 Hyundai SUV lineup by their maximum towing capacities, utilizing the latest technical specifications.
1. 2026 Hyundai Palisade & IONIQ 9 (Tie)
Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
At the top of the leaderboard are Hyundai’s three-row titans.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade continues to be the gold standard for family hauling in Ontario. Equipped with the robust 3.5L GDI V6 engine producing 287 horsepower, it is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Every 2026 Palisade comes standard with a heavy-duty transmission cooler and Tow Mode, which optimizes shift points for smoother trailering.
Joining it at the top is the all-new 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9. This all-electric three-row SUV proves that going green doesn't mean giving up capability. Across the Preferred AWD and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, the IONIQ 9 matches the Palisade with a 5,000 lbs towing capacity, supported by a massive 110.3 kWh battery and up to 516 lb-ft of torque.
2. 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Maximum Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg)
The redesigned 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers impressive versatility for Cambridge adventurers. While the standard Hybrid (HEV) powertrain is highly efficient, those looking to tow will find the most capability in the XRT and Ultimate Calligraphy trims.
- Santa Fe XRT: Features a specialized cooling system and rugged hardware allowing for a 4,500 lbs maximum tow rating.
- Santa Fe (Other Trims): Standard trims equipped with the 1.6T Hybrid powertrain generally offer a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs.
3. 2026 Hyundai Tucson
Maximum Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson is a favorite for local commuting and light-duty hauling. Whether you choose the 2.5L gasoline engine, the 1.6T Hybrid (HEV), or the Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), the Tucson offers a consistent towing capacity:
- Standard Towing: 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with trailer brakes.
- Without Trailer Brakes: 1,650 lbs (748 kg).
This is ideal for a small utility trailer, a pair of jet skis, or a hitch-mounted bike rack.
4. 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5
Maximum Towing Capacity: 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg)
The award-winning 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 electric crossover has received a boost in utility. For 2026, models equipped with the Long Range battery (84.0 kWh) and All-Wheel Drive are rated to tow up to 2,300 lbs. This makes it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers who still need to haul a light camper or small boat.
2026 Towing Capacity Comparison Table
| 2026 Hyundai Model | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | Best For... |
| Palisade | 5,000 lbs | Heavy trailers, large boats |
| IONIQ 9 (EV) | 5,000 lbs | High-torque electric hauling |
| Santa Fe (XRT) | 4,500 lbs | Camping trailers & off-road gear |
| IONIQ 5 (EV) | 2,300 lbs | Small utility trailers |
| Tucson | 2,000 lbs | Jet skis, light utility |
Towing Tips for Cambridge Drivers
- Check Your Hitch: Ensure you are using a Genuine Hyundai hitch and wire harness to maintain your vehicle's warranty and safety systems, such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, which can be adjusted for trailer length on certain models.
- Know Your Tongue Weight: Generally, tongue weight should be about 10% of your total trailer weight. Overloading the rear of the vehicle can affect steering and braking.
- Brake Requirements: For weights over 1,650 lbs, Ontario regulations and Hyundai specifications generally require the use of a trailer brake system.
Visit Cambridge Hyundai Today
Ready to see these capable SUVs in person? Whether you need the 5,000-lb capacity of the Palisade or the efficient utility of the Tucson, our team at Cambridge Hyundai is here to help. Visit us in Cambridge, ON, to take a test drive and speak with our towing experts.