You might expect diesel vehicles to be the obvious choice when it comes to towing, as they provide plenty of pulling power and reasonable efficiency.
But hybrid vehicles are starting to become useful alternatives for drivers that need towing, as they can be cleaner and more efficient than diesel models.
Here are six hybrid options that are great for towing…
BMW X5 xDrive40e
The latest X5 is already one of the best SUVs to drive so, with the additional towing capabilities, it’s more of an all-rounder than ever. The electrified petrol model’s 2,700kg towing weight is helped by four-wheel drive – meaning the 450Nm of torque can be put down on the tarmac much easier. The X5 also comes with an impressive equipment line-up, justifying the £57,080 starting price.
Audi Q7 e-tron
Much like it’s close rival from BMW, the Audi Q7 e-tron offers electrified driving with impressive towing options. Powered by a 3.0-litre diesel V6 alongside an electric motor, the e-tron develops 367bhp and 700Nm of torque – with that power put on the road via the quattro all-wheel drive system. The 2,800kg towing weight enhances the overall package of the Q7 e-tron, which starts from £67,550 thanks to the as-expected high-end Audi fit and finish.
Volvo XC90 T8
The electrified Volvo SUV is one of the best SUVs around and with its 2,400kg towing weight, it’s great for caravanners, too. The XC90 comes handsomely equipped with safety assistance systems and is focused towards comfort thanks to softer suspension and plenty of interior space. Priced from £66,630, the XC90 T8 develops 384bhp and 640Nm of torque from its 2.0-litre petrol and electric motor powertrain.
Mercedes-Benz E300 de
The diesel-electric powertrain for this estate offers plenty of grunt – 302bhp and 700Nm of torque, in fact – meaning towing is a piece of cake. The 2,100kg towing capability, while all the power is sent through the rear wheels. Introduced in 2019, the E300 de is offered with most of the top-end equipment, such as a digital instrument display and a large infotainment display. Prices start from £52,195.
Honda CR-V Hybrid
The CR-V Hybrid may only be able to tow 750kg, but that can be more than enough for many drivers. The comfortable and efficient CR-V Hybrid has 181bhp and 315Nm of torque at its disposal from its electrified 2.0-litre petrol engine. It’s offered with either two- or four-wheel drive throughout the CR-V’s trim line-up and is priced from £30,130.
Range Rover Sport P400e
The Range Rover Sport is one of the most recognisable SUVs around and as it’s now offered with a petrol-hybrid setup, it’s been future-proofed for a little while yet. Fitted with a 3.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor, the P400e has 398bhp and 550Nm of torque on hand to get the four-wheel drive model from 0-60mph in six seconds flat. The 3,500kg towing weight is very useful too, while you can take the Range Rover Sport almost anywhere thanks to its amazing off-road technology.