WHETHER you’re hauling a horsebox, caravan or trailer full of feed and tack, understanding your vehicle’s towing capacity isn’t just sensible, it’s essential.

A towing capacity is the maximum weight it can safely and legally pull, and getting it wrong can put lives, machinery and your insurance at risk.

Today’s market offers a wide range of capable tow vehicles, but their capacities vary significantly. Here are five 2026 models buyers might consider:

  • Land Rover Defender: A stalwart 4×4 rated at a high 3,500 kg maximum braked trailer weight, roughly 3,500 kg (˜7,700 lb).
  • Mazda CX-90: A three-row SUV with up to 5,000 lbs (about 2,270 kg) towing on higher trims, making it a strong choice for larger trailers.
  • Infiniti QX80 Sport 4WD: Full-size SUV with 8,500 lbs (3,855 kg) capacity, ideal for heavy loads or bigger horseboxes.
  • Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Luxury electric SUV capable of up to 3,500 lbs (˜1,588 kg) when equipped appropriately.
  • Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: A mainstream SUV with around 2,000 kg towing capability, covering many everyday towing needs.

    • Why does this matter? Exceeding rated towing capacity increases braking distances, tyre strain and risk of trailer sway, especially on hills or in crosswinds. It can invalidate warranties or insurance and may even land drivers on the wrong side of legal weight limits.

    Always consult the manufacturer’s data plate or handbook, calculate the loaded trailer weight (including gear), and check licence requirements.

    Matching your vehicle to what you tow isn’t an optional extra, it’s fundamental to safe, responsible travel on Irish roads.