Heavy Duty Trucks With the Highest Towing Capacity [2023 Edition]
Michael Collado is a car buying expert and has been a professional automotive writer since 2009. He’s written about dealership sales, vehicle reviews and comparisons, and service and maintenance for over 100 national automotive dealerships. Previously, Collado was a copywriter at the ad agency TBWA/Chiat/Day where he worked on brand campaigns for Nissan, ABC Television, Sony PlayStation, and Energizer. His recognition in the ad industry includes awards from Communication Arts and The Clios.
Collado has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing.
Need big towing power? Then discover which heavy-duty truck is the ideal choice for you
These trucks are designed for serious work, and they are capable of pulling a wide range of trailers and other heavy loads.
To help you find the right truck, we've researched the capacities of some of the top 3/4 ton trucks available today.
That includes the following ¾ ton trucks available in the North American market: Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD, Ram 2500, and the Nissan Titan XD Max.
Looking for more models? Check out our full list of trucks with the highest towing capacity >>
Table of Contents
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Heavy-Duty Truck for Towing
Selecting the best heavy-duty truck for towing needs requires careful consideration of a number of factors. Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind when choosing a truck for towing:
1. Towing Capacity: One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a heavy-duty truck for towing is the truck's towing capacity. Towing capacity is the maximum amount of weight a truck can safely tow. It's important to choose a truck with a towing capacity that meets or exceeds the weight of the trailer and cargo you plan to tow.
2. Engine Performance: The engine is the heart of any heavy-duty truck, and it plays a critical role in towing performance. Look for a truck with an engine that provides ample horsepower and torque to handle heavy loads. A diesel engine is often a good choice for towing, as it provides more torque than a gasoline engine.
3. Transmission: The transmission is another important factor to consider when selecting a heavy-duty truck for towing. Look for a truck with a transmission that is designed to handle the high torque output of a diesel engine, such as an Allison® transmission.
4. Brakes: Towing heavy loads requires effective braking power. Make sure the truck you choose has a high-quality braking system, including disc brakes and an electronic brake controller.
5. Suspension: A heavy-duty suspension system is essential for towing. Look for a truck with a suspension that is designed to handle the weight of the trailer and cargo you plan to tow. Air suspension is a popular option, as it can be adjusted to provide optimal support and stability.
6. Towing Features: Look for a truck with towing-specific features that can make towing easier and safer. Examples include backup cameras, trailer sway control, integrated trailer brake controllers, and in-vehicle trailering apps.
7. Payload Capacity: In addition to towing capacity, it's important to consider the truck's payload capacity. This is the maximum amount of weight the truck can carry in the bed and cab. Make sure the payload capacity is sufficient for your needs.
8. Fuel Efficiency: Finally, consider fuel efficiency when selecting a heavy-duty truck for towing. Look for a truck that provides good fuel economy, as towing can be expensive in terms of fuel costs. Diesel engines tend to be more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines, which can help offset the higher cost of diesel fuel.
By considering these factors when selecting a heavy-duty truck for towing, you can find the right truck for your needs and ensure safe and efficient towing performance.
Heavy Duty Truck Towing Capacities Table
| Truck Model | Max Towing Capacity | Unique Towing Feature |
| Ford F-250 Super Duty | ||
| Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | ||
| GMC Sierra 2500HD | ||
| RAM 2500 | ||
| Nissan Titan XD MAX |
Heavy Duty Trucks by Towing Capacity
1. Ford F-250 Super Duty
The Ford F-250 Super Duty is a powerful truck with a maximum towing capacity of up to 37,000 pounds. This truck is equipped with a 6.7-liter V8 diesel engine, which provides plenty of power for towing even the heaviest loads. One of the unique towing features of the F-250 Super Duty is the Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which makes it easier to maneuver your trailer when backing up. The Trailer Reverse Guidance system is another useful feature, providing a clear view of the area behind your trailer.
2. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is another top choice for those in need of serious towing capacity. This truck has a maximum towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds when properly equipped. One of the unique features of the Silverado 2500HD is the available Allison® 10-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed to handle the high torque output of the truck's engines, making it easier to tow heavy loads.
3. GMC Sierra 2500HD
The GMC Sierra 2500HD is similar to the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD in many ways, but it has its own unique features as well. This truck also has a maximum towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds when properly equipped. One of the standout features of the Sierra 2500HD is the available ProGrade Trailering System. This system includes a number of features designed to make towing easier, such as an in-vehicle trailering app, a trailer light test, and a trailer electrical diagnostics system.
4. Ram 2500
The Ram 2500 is another 3/4 ton truck that is designed for serious work. This truck has a maximum towing capacity of up to 19,680 pounds when properly equipped. One of the unique features of the Ram 2500 is the available Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension. This suspension system is designed to automatically level the truck when towing a heavy load, improving stability and handling.
5. Nissan Titan XD Max
Finally, the Nissan Titan XD Max is a heavy-duty truck that is designed for serious towing. This truck has a maximum towing capacity of up to 11,040 pounds when properly equipped. One of the unique features of the Titan XD Max is the available Integrated Trailer Brake Controller. This feature allows you to control your trailer's brakes directly from the truck, improving safety and control when towing heavy loads.
