Which 2026 Mazda SUV Can Tow the Most?
Utah families and outdoor buffs know the struggle you can face if you want an SUV that handles weekday school runs but can also drag your boat to Lake Powell when the weekend arrives. Mazda's 2026 SUV models feature varying towing capacities to fit your needs, whether you're hauling garden supplies from the local hardware store or pulling a travel trailer through the Wasatch Mountains.
Quick Answer: The 2026 Mazda CX-90 Leads the Pack
The 2026 CX-90 tops Mazda's SUV lineup with 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. This puts it toe-to-toe with traditional towing competitors, making it a smart choice for Utah families who previously looked elsewhere. The Mazda CX-90's towing capacity exceeds that of previous Mazda models by 1,500 pounds, providing real pulling power if you're an outdoor enthusiast.
The CX-90's towing capacity varies across nine configurations and three engines. The base Turbo Select and Turbo Preferred models offer 3,500 pounds, which is plenty for weekend gear. Higher trims deliver more power: the Turbo Premium Sport, Turbo Premium Plus, Turbo S Premium Sport, and Turbo S Premium Plus models all deliver the full 5,000-pound level that serious towing vehicles need.
The available 3.3-liter Turbo S inline-six engine delivers 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque and can handle larger trailers up steep Utah passes without strain while keeping daily drives smooth and refined.
2026 Mazda SUV Towing Capacity Comparison
While the Mazda CX-90 provides the greatest towing capacity, other models still have plenty of pulling power. Both the CX-70 and the CX-70 Plug-In Hybrid offer a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The hybrid setup combines gas and electric power for 323 horsepower, delivering a smooth ride and strong fuel economy.
The 2026 CX-50 gives adventure seekers a choice; turbo models deliver 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, but naturally aspirated engines limit you to 2,000 pounds, which is a big difference for regular haulers. The CX-50's 3,500-pound rating matches some Toyota RAV4 models and beats the Ford Bronco Sport's 2,700-pound limit.
For lighter loads, both the Mazda CX-5 and the CX-30 pull 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. The CX-5 uses its 2.5-liter Skyactiv G engine to produce 187 horsepower, which is plenty for Jet Skis, utility trailers, or small boats on trips to Jordanelle or Strawberry Reservoir.
Real-World Towing: What You Can Actually Tow
The CX-5's and CX-30's 2,000-pound limit is sufficient for towing small fishing boats, Jet Skis, small pop-up campers, motorcycle trailers, and yard equipment. It's also ideal for dirt bikes or that Home Depot fridge run.
The 3,500-pound bracket (the CX-50 Turbo, CX-70, and CX-70 Hybrid trims) offers more options. This midrange capacity handles most Utah family needs, including medium boats for Bear Lake trips, small travel trailers for Moab weekends, bigger utility trailers, ATVs, and lightweight campers.
The CX-90's 5,000-pound capacity allows for more serious options, including larger boats, multiple four-wheelers, proper travel trailers, A-frame campers, fiberglass campers, and heavy-duty utility trailers. This places the CX-90 in midsize truck territory; if you've got a 21-foot boat, the CX-90 will handle it, and you also get leather seats and premium sound systems that most trucks don't offer.
Essential Towing Equipment and Requirements
You need the right gear before hitching up, and Mazda offers factory setups. Towing accessories for the CX-90 include a genuine Mazda hitch, tow brake controller, ball mount, wiring harness, and hitch add-ons that integrate perfectly. Using factory options ensures you'll get a proper fit, seamless operation, and warranty protection.
Understanding hitch class categories is also important. The CX-90 uses a CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch rated for 5,000 pounds, 500 pounds tongue weight, and a 2-inch receiver for standard accessories. The CX-50 gets Class 3 too, rated for 3,500 pounds with 525 pounds of tongue weight. Class 3 falls between Class I (2,000 pounds maximum) and Class V (20,000 pounds), making it perfect for family SUVs.
The CX-90's Mi-Drive Towing Mode adjusts drivetrain settings for heavy loads. This system changes shift points, throttle response, and stability controls to maintain a smooth drive, even with big trailers swaying on windy I-15 stretches. Add trailer brake controllers and safety chains, and you have a setup that makes Utah mountain passes easily manageable.
How To Choose the Right Mazda SUV for Your Towing Needs
Picking your perfect Mazda based on its towing capacity starts with an assessment of what you'll actually pull. First, add up your trailer weight plus the combined weight of all the equipment you'll be loading into it. Don't forget that tongue weight (typically 10%-15% of loaded trailer weight) counts against your payload capacity. The CX-5's payload ranges from 957 pounds to 1,045 pounds, including people, luggage, and tongue weight. Bear in mind that four adults plus equipment can quickly add up in terms of payload.
Think about your towing frequency and typical trips. If you're taking Jet Skis to Pineview Dam twice each summer, you'll have different needs than if you're pulling a camper to Zion and Bryce every other weekend. The CX-50 is ideal for weekend warriors, with a 2,000-pound pull that's perfect for active drivers who tow often but not constantly. The CX-70 delivers the same 3,500-pound towing capacity but with more interior space and technology features, striking a balance between daily comfort and weekend fun.
If you have a large family, the CX-90 seats up to eight while still pulling 5,000 pounds, which is a rare combination that works for large families with big cargo. There's no need to choose between bringing the kids or the boat, as this vehicle can handle both.
Figuring out your exact needs means knowing key statistics, such as gross combined weight ratings and payload limits, but if you're unsure, then our professionals at Bountiful Mazda can help you sort through the details so you stay safe on those mountain roads.
Find Your Perfect Towing Companion at Bountiful Mazda
Mazda's latest SUV lineup is its strongest ever, from the nimble CX-30 to the plush CX-90. Each brings something unique, whether you need basic utility for Home Depot runs or the power to pull a trailer to Flaming Gorge. The engineering and smart features, including towing equipment packages, show that Mazda understands what Utah families need from their vehicles.
Our team at Bountiful Mazda can show you the full 2026 Mazda SUV range; we understand what Utah families are looking for, and we'll help you identify the perfect vehicle for both Monday commutes and Friday escapes.