In this article, I will show you 5 cars that can tow 1500 pounds. Some of these cars can actually tow more than that. Not everyone has the option of owning an SUV or truck that can tow large amounts of weight. If you are someone who owns a small trailer or lightweight camper under 1500 pounds, you may be looking for a car that can tow it.
The following list of vehicles are all affordable and easy to find in your local area. They are common vehicles and will have no problem towing 1500 pounds which is a common weight for many items that can be towed. A pop-up tent trailer or camper is a good example of something that weighs 1500 pounds and each of the vehicles in this list can tow them.
- Subaru Outback
- Volkswagon Tiguan
- Dodge Caliber
- Subaru Forester
- Ford Fusion
Note: Always check with the vehicle owners manual and follow the recommended towing procedure and limitations.
| Car | Subaru Outback | Volkswagon Tiguan | Dodge Caliber | Subaru Forester | Ford Fusion |
| Max tow weight | 2700 LBS | 1500 LBS | 2000 LBS | 1500 LBS | 2000 LBS |
| Engine type | 2.5L 4 cylinder | 2.0L 4cylinder | 2.0L 4 cylinder | 2.5L 4 cylinder | 2.0L 4 cylinder |
#1. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback can tow the most weight of any car on the list. With the 2.5L, 4 cylinder engine, it can tow up to 2700 pounds. This is more than suitable for towing smaller trailers and campers. Other items that you can tow with the Outback include aluminum and fiberglass boats, motorbike trailers, moving trailers, and more. Keep in mind that any cargo you add onto the trailer will add to the total weight of the trailer being towed.
#2. Volkswagen Tiguan
Although the Volkswagon Tiguan has a maximum towing capacity of 1500 pounds, there are plenty of trailers that are under this weight. Pop up campers, Jet skis, small boats, and moving trailers are examples of what can be towed with the Tiguan. The 2.0L 4 cylinder engine produces 184 HP and 221 lb-ft of torque. Some people will consider these as a small SUV but they have a medium car look and feel. They have plenty of storage space and are an affordable and safe option for towing lighter items.
#3. Dodge Caliber
The Dodge Caliber is the oldest car on the list that was produced from 2007 to 2012. The 2.0L 4 cylinder engine is able to tow up to 2000 pounds which is better than many cars in its class. The hatchback design provides plenty of storage space and can carry alot of cargo. If you are adding cargo, remember to add this to the weight of the trailer being towed. Trailer hitches and tow packages can easily be installed. It’s recommended to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer to have this work performed. The Dodge Caliber is a reliable and affordable vehicle that can be used to tow many small camper trailers, fishing boats, Jet skis, moving trailers and more.
#4. Subaru Forester
With the 2.5L 4 cylinder engine, the Subaru Forester can tow up to 1500 pounds. This vehicle is great to use on camping, hiking, fishing trips and can easily pull small trailers with all your needed gear and equipment. If you are moving and need to tow a small trailer under 1500 pounds, the Forester is a great choice. Depending on the model and configuration, the Forester may be able to tow more. Check with the manufacturer directly to confirm the limitations. If you are looking to add a tow bar yourself, here is a great video that explains the necessary steps.
#5. Ford Fusion
The last vehicle on the list is the Ford Fusion. This vehicle is similar to the Dodge Caliber above with respect to engine size and maximum towing weight. The 2.5L 4 cylinder engine can tow up to 2000 pounds. Depending on the powertrain, the Fusion can tow more weight. Although the Fusion may not have the storage space of the other vehicles, you can fit plenty of gear inside a 2000 pound trailer. It can also be used for towing light camper trailers, small boats, and Jet skis.
Can a car tow another car?
Yes, you can tow another car with your car providing you follow the vehicle’s tow limitations. The towing vehicle should be larger and heavier than the vehicle being towed. Remember to add the weight of the vehicle and trailer together. Your vehicle needs to be equipped with the proper tow package that is suitable to handle the weight of the vehicle being towed.
Important towing terms
Before towing any items regardless of the vehicle being used, it’s important to understand a few terms that are commonly used.
- GVWR- Gross vehicle weight rating. The maximum loaded weight of a vehicle.
- GCWR- Gross combined weight rating. The maximum towing weight of a vehicle.
- GAWR- Gross axle weight rating. The maximum weight on each vehicle axle.
- GTW- Gross trailer weight. The total weight of a trailer.
- TW- Tongue weight. The total weight at the coupling point.
- Curb weight- The total weight of an empty vehicle.
- Dry weight- The weight of a vehicle without any fluids.
- Payload- The total weight of cargo and passengers.