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What is the Maximum Towing Capacity of a New 2026 Hyundai SUV?

Posted on February 25, 2026

Hyundai's 2026 SUV lineup offers towing capabilities across multiple segments, from compact to three-row vehicles. Whether you're planning weekend camping trips, boat launches, or utility hauling, Hyundai delivers practical towing options to match your lifestyle. Towing capacity varies significantly from model to model - from the Kona's city-focused design to the 5,000 lb capability of the Palisade and IONIQ 9. Understanding these differences helps Alberta families select the right SUV for their adventure needs.

2026 Hyundai SUV Towing Capacity Overview

Palisade: Premium Three-Row Towing

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade stands as Hyundai's flagship towing vehicle, offering 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) with the 3.8L V6 engine and 4,000 lb (1,814 kg) with the available Hybrid powertrain. This three-row midsize SUV combines spacious family seating with serious towing capability, making it ideal for families who need both passenger room and hauling performance.

Palisade Towing Features

• Factory-integrated tow hitch on XRT PRO, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy trims
• HTRAC all-wheel-drive with dedicated Tow Mode for optimized weight distribution
• Downhill Brake Control system maintains safe speeds on steep terrain while towing
• Excellent range - 900+ km (V6) and 800+ km (Hybrid) support extended trips
• Dual exhaust and reinforced suspension engineered for trailer duty

IONIQ 9: All-Electric Innovation

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 will mark Hyundai's entry into the three-row electric SUV segment with a 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) towing capacity on dual-motor all-wheel-drive models. Arriving at dealerships in June 2026, this all-electric SUV demonstrates that zero-emission vehicles can deliver practical towing capability without compromising on family seating or modern convenience features.

IONIQ 9 Intelligent Trailer Mode

What distinguishes the IONIQ 9 is its intelligent trailer mode technology, which optimizes range predictions based on actual trailer weight. Rather than generic calculations, this system accounts for weight, aerodynamic drag, terrain, and driving speed to provide realistic estimates. For Alberta families heading to mountain destinations or managing charging logistics, this feature addresses the primary concern of towing with an electric vehicle - knowing exactly how far you can travel before requiring a recharge.

IONIQ 9 All-Wheel-Drive Performance

• Dual-motor architecture with fixed 50:50 front-to-rear torque split ensures balanced power delivery
• Simultaneous power delivery to all four wheels improves traction on boat ramps and wet surfaces
• Enhanced stability and predictable handling with loaded trailers
• Built in Ulsan, South Korea - arriving June 2026 (pre-order available now)
• Three-row seating plus serious towing in a zero-emission package

Note: Towing with the IONIQ 9 requires planning for charging stops and route management, but intelligent trailer mode makes this practical for typical family towing needs across Alberta and beyond.

Tucson: Capable Compact Utility

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson delivers towing capability in a compact package. The standard 2.5L gasoline engine handles 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) with brakes, while the available Hybrid and PHEV models are rated for 2,000 lb (907 kg) with brakes. Without brakes, all Tucson models are rated for 1,650 lb (748 kg).

• Trailer pre-wiring standard on all trims - ready for towing out of the box
• Trailer Sway Assist included to enhance stability with lighter loads
• HTRAC all-wheel-drive provides confident handling on variable terrain
• Ideal for light recreational trailers, small boat trailers, or utility equipment
• Compact footprint simplifies parking and manoeuvring in campgrounds

Santa Fe Hybrid: Midsize Efficiency

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is equipped with trailer preparation and features trailer sway control for enhanced safety. The Santa Fe Hybrid has a towing capacity of 2,000 lb (907 kg) with trailer brakes. It includes trailer sway control for enhanced safety and is well-suited for light to moderate towing needs.

Kona: City-First Design

The 2026 Hyundai Kona is not rated for towing per Hyundai's official specifications. This subcompact SUV is purpose-built for urban commuting, city navigating, and daily driving rather than recreational or utility hauling. If towing capability is important to your family, consider the Tucson, Santa Fe Hybrid, Palisade, or IONIQ 9 instead.

2026 Hyundai SUV Towing Capacity Comparison

Hyundai SUV Model	Maximum Towing Capacity
Palisade V6	5,000 lb (2,268 kg)
Palisade Hybrid	4,000 lb (1,814 kg)
IONIQ 9 Dual-Motor AWD	5,000 lb (2,268 kg)
Tucson 2.5L Gasoline	3,500 lb (1,588 kg)
Tucson Hybrid/PHEV	2,000 lb (907 kg)
Santa Fe Hybrid	2,000 lb (907 kg)
Kona	Not rated for towing

Finding the Right Hyundai SUV for Your Towing Needs

Selecting the right Hyundai SUV depends on your towing requirements, vehicle preferences, and lifestyle. Here's how to think about capacity:

• Light towing (under 2,000 lb): Tucson, Kona (city only)
• Moderate towing (2,000 - 4,000 lb): Tucson, Santa Fe Hybrid, Palisade Hybrid, IONIQ 9
• Maximum capability (5,000 lb): Palisade V6, IONIQ 9
• Electric advantage: IONIQ 9 (zero-emission towing with intelligent range management)
• Space plus towing: Palisade (seating for 7 + serious hauling capacity)

Visit Crowfoot Hyundai to Explore Towing Options

Whether you're towing a camper to the Canadian Rockies, launching a boat at a local lake, or hauling equipment for weekend projects, the 2026 Hyundai SUV lineup delivers options for every towing requirement. The team at Crowfoot Hyundai understands Alberta's outdoor lifestyle and can help match your adventure needs with the perfect Hyundai SUV. From the efficiency of the upcoming IONIQ 9 to the proven capability of the Palisade, we have the right vehicle waiting for you. Contact us today to test drive, reserve your IONIQ 9, or discuss towing specifications for any 2026 Hyundai SUV model.