All vehicles, even the compact Smart ForTwo, possess some towing capability. However, some vehicles are undoubtedly better suited for the task than others. Occasional light towing, like hauling yard waste, can be handled by a standard car with a hitch. But for frequent heavy towing, a dedicated truck is essential. This article explores the best trucks for towing available in 2020, spanning midsize, full-size, and heavy-duty categories.
Best Midsize Towing Truck: 2020 Chevrolet Colorado
2020 Chevrolet ColoradoImage used with permission by copyright holder
The Chevrolet Colorado, Chevy’s smallest truck, demonstrates that significant towing capacity doesn’t necessitate a massive pickup. While the base model with a four-cylinder engine offers a 3,500-pound towing capacity, opting for the 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine and rear-wheel drive boosts this figure to a best-in-class 7,700 pounds. This impressive capacity allows for towing a car and trailer, a camper, a pair of ATVs, or a boat. Choosing four-wheel drive slightly reduces the towing capacity to 7,600 pounds, a worthwhile trade-off for off-road adventures.
Best Full-Size Towing Truck: 2020 Ford F-150
2020 Ford F-150 Power Stroke DieselImage used with permission by copyright holder
The 13th-generation Ford F-150, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, can effortlessly tow up to 13,200 pounds. Its towing capacity surpasses competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado and Ram 1500, partly due to its lightweight aluminum construction. While the 14th-generation F-150 debuted in June 2020, its official towing capacity remains undisclosed. However, it’s anticipated to match or exceed its predecessor’s capabilities, keeping it competitive with the Ram.
Best Heavy-Duty Towing Truck: 2020 Ram 3500
2019 Ram Heavy DutyImage used with permission by copyright holder
Engineered for heavy towing, the Ram 3500 Heavy Duty pickup boasts an astounding 35,100-pound towing capacity. This makes it the ideal choice for hauling fifth-wheel trailers, campers, other trucks, or construction equipment. Alternatively, its 7,680-pound payload capacity means it can carry as much weight in its bed as a Chevrolet Colorado can tow. The Ram 3500 also features helpful technology, including Trailer Reverse Guidance View, which displays a rearview camera feed on the dashboard touchscreen for easier reversing.
Two engine choices are available: a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and a 6.7-liter turbodiesel inline-six producing up to 400 horsepower and 1,000 pound-feet of torque. The turbodiesel option is the one that achieves the remarkable 35,000-pound towing capacity.
From midsize pickups like the Colorado to heavy-duty workhorses like the Ram 3500, the 2020 truck market offers a range of options to meet various towing needs. Whether it’s hauling recreational vehicles or heavy equipment, there’s a truck designed for the job.
