Last summer I finally hooked our little camper trailer up to my Rivian R1S and headed out for a long weekend in the mountains. I have to admit, I was a little nervous at first. All those stories about electric cars losing range when towing had me second-guessing the whole thing. But you know what, it turned out way better than I expected. The Rivian just pulled steady up those hills, no drama, and we got to the campsite without running dry. That trip got me thinking more about other electric SUVs that can actually handle towing without making you regret going green. If you're someone who likes hauling a boat or trailer but wants to switch to electric, there are some really good options out there now in 2026.
Actually, towing with an electric SUV feels different from gas in a good way sometimes. The instant torque makes pulling away smooth, and it's quiet the whole time. No engine noise, just you and the road. I find the whole experience kind of relaxing, even when loaded up.
Top Electric SUVs for Towing Capacity Right Now
When I look at electric SUVs for towing, capacity is the first thing I check. You need something that can actually pull what you have without straining. The Rivian R1S stands out to me because it has the highest towing rating among proper SUVs. I pulled a decent-sized camper with mine and it felt solid the whole way.
The Kia EV9 surprised me too. A friend has one and we borrowed it to move some furniture on a trailer. For the price, it handles 5,000 pounds really well. Tesla Model X has been around longer, and it's still solid if you want that quick acceleration. The Volvo EX90 is newer and feels super safe, which matters when you're hauling stuff.
Here's a quick comparison I put together based on what I've seen and driven:
| Model | Towing Capacity | Estimated Range (no tow) | Rough Starting Price | 0-60 mph |
| Rivian R1S | 7,700 lbs | 320-400 miles | $80,000 | 3-4.5 seconds |
| Kia EV9 | 5,000 lbs | 280-304 miles | $55,000 | 5-7 seconds |
| Tesla Model X | 5,000 lbs | 326-340 miles | $80,000 | 2.5-3.8 seconds |
| Volvo EX90 | up to 5,000 lbs | around 300 miles | $80,000 | 4.5-5.5 seconds |
To me, the Rivian wins if you need serious capacity and maybe some off-road ability too. But the Kia gives you a lot for less money.
How Range Changes When You're Actually Towing
Okay, let's talk about the thing everyone worries about, range. Without a trailer, these SUVs go pretty far. But hook something up and yeah, it drops. On my Rivian trip with the camper, I saw the range cut almost in half. Planned a few extra charging stops, but it wasn't a big deal because fast chargers are everywhere now.
I find with the Kia EV9, the range holds up decently too, maybe 40-50% loss depending on weight and speed. Tesla owners I know say the same for Model X, though if you drive fast it drops quicker. The Volvo seems similar from what I've read and heard from people who have one.
Actually, once I got used to planning around it, towing with electric felt normal. Just check the route ahead, find chargers along the way, and you're good. To me, the quiet ride makes up for the extra stops.
Performance and Driving Feel Under Load
Performance is where electric really shines for towing, I think. That instant torque means no lag when you need to pass or climb. My Rivian just digs in and goes, even with weight behind it. The Kia isn't as quick but still feels strong enough for most situations.
Tesla Model X is crazy fast even towing, from what I've tried in a quick test. The Volvo EX90 has that smooth, confident feel, lots of safety tech watching out for you. Actually, last fall I helped a buddy tow his boat with his Model X, and the acceleration off the line was kind of ridiculous.
Handling is stable in all of them because batteries are low in the floor. No swaying like some gas trucks I've driven. I find the regenerative braking helps control speed on downhills too, which is nice when you're heavy.
What Works for Me and What Might Work for You
If I had to pick one again, I'd stick with the Rivian because I do some light off-road stuff and need the extra capacity sometimes. But honestly, for most people the Kia EV9 makes a ton of sense. Great space inside, cheaper to buy and run, and it tows what a lot of families actually need.
The Model X is fun if you want speed and tech, and the Volvo if safety is your top thing. Actually, no perfect one, just depends on what you tow and how far you go.
All these electric SUVs have come a long way for towing. Range takes a hit, sure, but with planning it's totally doable. If you're thinking about making the switch, maybe test drive a couple with a trailer if you can. See how it feels for your trips. For me, going electric even for towing has been worth it, quieter, smoother, and no gas stops. If you need a solid electric SUV for towing in 2026, any of these would treat you well.