Knowing a vehicle's towing capacity is imperative if you tow any kind of trailer with the vehicle. Towing too much weight can cause vehicle damage and accidents. It is important to consider the vehicle you will be towing when considering the type vehicle you need. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), "the selection of an appropriate tow vehicle and the proper equipment to tow a trailer depends on the type of trailer, its size and weight, and the amount of weight being towed."
The 2011 Silverado pickups have different towing capacities depending on the size of the truck. The 1500 has a max towing capacity of 10,700 lbs., the 2500 will tow up to 17,800 lbs. and the 3500 has a 21,700-lb. towing limit. Chevrolet's 2011 Silverado Hybrid has a towing limit of 6,100 lbs., which makes it capable of towing light campers and boats. The Suburban is available in half- and three-quarter-ton models---the smaller version can tow up to 8,100 lbs. and the larger can tow up to 9,600 lbs. The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid will tow up to 6,200 lbs. and the full fuel version will tow up to 8,500 lbs.
Ford produces nine models capable of towing. Crossover models Edge and Flex will tow up to 3,500 and 4,500 lbs., respectively. Ford truck towing capacities start at 5,760 lbs. with the Ranger. The F-150 is capable of up to 11,300 lbs. and Ford's Super Duty series of trucks will tow up to 24,600 lbs. Ford SUV's capable of towing begin with the Sport Track, which will tow up to 6,900 lbs. The Explorer can tow up to 7,115 lbs. and Ford's largest SUV will tow up to 9,200 lbs. Ford's E-Series vans are capable of towing up to 10,000 lbs.
The Ram 3500 has a maximum towing capacity of 17,600 lbs., while the 2500 will tow up to 15,460 lbs. Dodge's Ram 1400 pickup is capable of towing up to 10,250 lbs. and the smallest pickup that Dodge makes---the Dakota---will tow up to 7,200 lbs. Dodge manufacturers a commercial vehicle line of trucks, Chassis Cabs. These trucks are capable of towing up to 18,750 lbs. depending on the model.
