Can the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Tow a Small Camper near Monrovia, CA?

CardinaleWay Hyundai of El Monte – Can the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Tow a Small Camper near Monrovia, CA?

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson brings smart updates that matter to shoppers weighing daily use against weekend adventure. One of the biggest questions local SUV buyers ask is whether the Tucson can tow a small camper. The short answer is yes—gas models with trailer brakes are now rated to tow up to 2,750 pounds for 2026, while Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models remain at 2,000 pounds. That bump gives compact trailers, teardrops, and utility loads more breathing room. Equally important, the Tucson’s available HTRAC® AWD and the XRT model’s new Terrain Mode add surefooted confidence when your campsite, boat ramp, or trailhead sits beyond the pavement.

Before you choose a floorplan or hitch up the first time, it pays to understand how ratings and setup choices translate to real-world towing. Tow ratings assume a properly equipped vehicle, a correctly installed hitch, and trailer brakes when required. For safe, stable towing, plan on a tongue weight that typically falls around 10 percent of the trailer’s loaded weight, confirm the hitch class and wiring harness, and keep cargo plus passenger weight within the SUV’s payload. Done right, the 2026 Tucson makes weekend getaways around the foothills, lakes, and desert destinations feel natural and low stress.

• Know your trailer’s loaded weight and tongue weight
• Use the correct hitch class and wiring connector
• Balance cargo in the trailer to keep sway in check
• Verify tire pressures on both SUV and trailer
• Practice gentle throttle and braking for smooth control

Powering the towing equation is a refined 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic. While relaxed by design, the Tucson feels composed at typical towing speeds, and HTRAC® AWD improves traction on boat ramps, gravel access roads, and slick surfaces. For 2026, the XRT’s Terrain Mode adds Mud, Snow, and Sand settings, helping the powertrain adapt to low-traction surfaces so you can pull away smoothly and maintain momentum when conditions change. The Tucson’s steering and braking manners also help keep you confident with a trailer attached, especially when maintaining lane position and modulating speed on long, downhill grades.

Technology further supports towing and campsite maneuvering. Hyundai SmartSense® includes standard and available driver assists such as forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, lane keeping support, and available adaptive cruise control with lane-centering to make highway trips less tiring. The Tucson’s standard 12.3-inch infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keeps maps and campground reservations right where you need them, while available built-in navigation and a wireless charging pad reduce cable clutter and help you stay focused on the road. If you’re eyeing electrified choices, the Plug-in Hybrid’s included Level 1/Level 2 combo charging cable adds flexibility for topping off at home between outings.

Still deciding between the gas, Hybrid, and Plug-in Hybrid? For trailers near the 2,000-pound mark, the gas model’s 2,750-pound rating with trailer brakes gives you margin for gear and water. If your trailer is lighter and your routes include frequent stop-and-go traffic or shorter trips, an electrified model may be appealing for its efficiency-focused character. Either way, a pre-trip conversation with a product specialist will help you match hitch setup, wiring, and accessories to your exact plans.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can the 2026 Tucson tow a teardrop camper?

Yes. Many teardrop campers fall between 1,000 and 2,000 pounds loaded. Gas models with trailer brakes can tow up to 2,750 pounds for 2026, offering a comfortable margin. Always verify your specific trailer’s loaded weight and ensure proper hitching and braking.

Is HTRAC® AWD necessary for towing?

Not required, but helpful. HTRAC® AWD improves traction when pulling up slippery boat ramps, navigating gravel sites, or starting on steep grades. If your trips include mixed surfaces or winter conditions, it’s a smart add.

What about sway control and payload?

Distribute trailer cargo to maintain correct tongue weight and consider a sway control device if needed. Keep an eye on payload—passengers, cargo, and hitch weight all count toward the vehicle’s maximum allowance.

When you are ready to dial in the right Tucson for your travel plans, CardinaleWay Hyundai of El Monte can walk you through trim comparisons, towing hardware, and the most useful accessories for your setup, serving Monrovia, Duarte, and West Covina with expert guidance.

Request more 2026 Hyundai Tucson information

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