The 2026 Hyundai Tucson quietly expanded its real-world capability by increasing the gas model’s tow rating to 2,750 lbs with trailer brakes, while Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models remain at 2,000 lbs. For many shoppers comparing compact SUVs, that change can be the difference between leaving gear at home and bringing the toys along. If your weekends involve pop-up campers, lightweight boats, small utility trailers, or a pair of ATVs, Tucson’s chart now makes room for more possibilities without stepping up to a larger, thirstier vehicle.
Understanding what you can tow starts with the fine print. Ratings apply when your Tucson is properly equipped, including an appropriate hitch, wiring, and a trailer brake controller when towing heavier loads. The 2,750-lb figure assumes trailer brakes on the trailer itself. Staying within your gross vehicle weight and tongue-weight guidelines is essential to safe handling, braking, and tire wear. When in doubt, weigh your loaded trailer, account for cargo and passengers inside the vehicle, and keep a safety margin that matches your comfort level.
Tucson’s available HTRAC® All Wheel Drive helps with traction and stability when launching a boat on a slick ramp or pulling onto a loose gravel shoulder at the campground. On the 2026 XRT, Terrain Mode adds Mud, Snow, and Sand settings to fine-tune throttle and traction control for changing surfaces, which can be especially helpful on unpaved access roads or during shoulder-season trips. The chassis tuning favors calm, predictable responses, so you feel composed at the wheel even when crosswinds or rutted pavement try to unsettle the trailer.
Connectivity and visibility also matter when towing. Tucson’s large infotainment display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so your maps and messages stay front and center without cable clutter. Available driver-assist features such as Lane Following Assist, adaptive cruise with lane-centering, and helpful blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts can reduce stress on longer hauls to the lake or state park. None of these systems replace safe driving habits, but they do work together to help keep trips smoother and less tiring.
Which trailers fit the numbers. Many aluminum fishing boats on small trailers, basic utility trailers loaded with yard materials, and modest pop-up campers can fall under the 2,750-lb rating for gas models, assuming your trailer is equipped with brakes. Larger campers or fully loaded cargo trailers may still push beyond that mark, so confirm exact weights. Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid shoppers will want to keep their plans aligned to the 2,000-lb rating, which still covers a surprising range of small gear and short-haul tasks.
If you are cross-shopping compact SUVs, the Tucson’s tow rating advantage is only part of the story. The cabin’s rear-seat space, quiet highway demeanor, and friendly tech make towing days and everyday errands equally manageable. Wireless smartphone integration, available built-in navigation, and clear driver information displays support stress-reducing road manners, which matters just as much as the number on the spec sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need anything special to tow with the 2026 Hyundai Tucson?
Yes. You will need proper towing equipment such as an appropriate hitch, wiring harness, and a trailer brake controller when towing heavier loads. The gas model’s 2,750-lb rating assumes trailer brakes. Always verify your trailer is within the vehicle’s ratings and consider a safety margin for comfort.
Which Tucson trims are best for towing confidence?
Any properly equipped gas model can leverage the higher 2,750-lb rating with trailer brakes. If you want extra traction help for launch ramps or unpaved access roads, look at available HTRAC® All Wheel Drive. The XRT adds Terrain Mode with Mud, Snow, and Sand, which can be helpful on mixed surfaces.
Can the Tucson Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid tow a small camper?
Yes, within rating. Both HEV and PHEV models are rated at 2,000 lbs, which can accommodate some pop-up campers, small utility trailers, and light watercraft. Always confirm actual trailer weight, tongue weight, and your total loaded vehicle weight before departure.
Is there anything I should do before my first towing trip?
Beyond installing the right hardware, run a practice loop locally. Verify brake controller function, check trailer lights, confirm tire pressures on both the Tucson and trailer, and distribute cargo to achieve proper tongue weight. Plan your route with room to stop and re-check connections after a few miles.
When you are ready to map your setup and compare trims, our team can walk you through towing equipment and Terrain Mode benefits in person. Dorsett Hyundai is serving Evansville, Lafayette, and Champaign-Urbana with transparent guidance and hands-on demonstrations so you can tow with confidence and enjoy the weekend you planned.
Tags: 2026 Hyundai Tucson, Evansville IN, Terre Haute IN
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