In New Zealand, summer is prime time for thrilling adventures. It’s a chance to explore rough terrains or drive by beautiful shores. For these journeys, the right vehicle is a must, especially when it comes to pulling boats, jet skis, or caravans. The vehicles with 3500kg towing capacity are your best bet.
Choices range from the dependable Toyota Hilux, the robust Ford Ranger, to the tough Isuzu D-Max. Each model suits varied budgets and tastes. This guide will showcase the top 3500kg towing capacity vehicles featured on Driven. This ensures you’re ready for all your summer getaways.
Key Takeaways
- Summer in New Zealand often means road trips and outdoor adventures, many of which involve towing boats, jet skis, or caravans.
- Choosing a reliable vehicle with a 3500kg towing capacity is crucial for safe and enjoyable summer trips.
- This article provides an overview of ten capable towing vehicles, including the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Nissan Navara, Mazda BT-50, and Holden Colorado.
- These vehicles cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring there’s an option for every outdoor enthusiast.
- Factors like engine power, suspension, braking systems, and overall vehicle weight should be considered when choosing a towing vehicle.
Introduction to Towing Capacity
In New Zealand, loving the great outdoors means knowing your towing capacity. This is crucial when you want to bring boats, jet skis, caravans, or other fun vehicles. With a high towing capacity vehicle, you can start amazing adventures and make memories that last a lifetime.
Importance of Towing Capacity for New Zealanders
Kiwis adore outdoor fun, and the right towing capacity helps them enjoy it more. If you like fishing, boating, or camping, a good towing vehicle really enhances your experiences.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Towing Vehicle
Choosing the right towing vehicle involves important details for safety and fun. The power of the engine is key for managing heavy loads. Suspension and brakes are equally vital for smooth and safe towing.
The vehicle’s own weight matters too. It affects how much it can tow and how easy it is to control. Finding a vehicle that balances power and maneuverability is essential.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | Determines the vehicle’s ability to handle heavy loads efficiently. |
| Suspension | Contributes to stability and control when towing. |
| Braking Systems | Ensures safe stopping power with added weight. |
| Overall Vehicle Weight | Impacts towing capacity and maneuverability. |
By thinking about these factors, you can choose a towing vehicle that’s just right. It will not only meet your needs but also offer a fun and safe ride.
Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux is a top pick in New Zealand because it’s great at towing. This tough pickup truck has stayed popular for years. It has strong engines and tough build, perfect for carrying heavy stuff.
Engine Specifications and Towing Capability
The Hilux’s towing power comes from its 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine. This engine puts out 130kW of power and 450Nm of torque. It gives the Hilux the strength to pull big loads easily, like boats or campers.
Hilux Models Suited for Towing
Some Hilux models are better for towing big things. The SR5 Cruiser and the Hilux Invincible are best for very heavy loads. They can tow up to 3,500kg.
Every Hilux model is built strong and performs well. It’s a top pick for Kiwis needing a reliable truck for towing. Whether for fun activities or work, the Hilux is always ready for the job.
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a favorite for towing across New Zealand. It’s loved for its strong engine that handles tough jobs easily.
Ranger’s Powerful Engine Options
The Ranger shines because of its engine choices. It has a 3.2-liter five-cylinder engine for heavy hauling. For more power, you can pick a 2.0-liter bi-turbo that really stands out.
Towing Accessories and Features
More than just powerful engines, the Ranger is set up for towing success. It comes with tools like tough tow hitches and brake controllers for trailers. These make towing any load simple.
One key feature is how the Ranger stays steady near its 3,500kg towing capacity. Its strong design and suspension keep it feeling in control. Towing is smooth and confident, every time.
For trips to the lake or a weekend adventure, the Ford Ranger is there for you. Its powerful engines, high towing capacity, and smart features put it at the top for towing.
Mitsubishi Triton
The Mitsubishi Triton is a standout in the towing world, with an outstanding towing capacity. This makes it perfect for many different tasks. Mitsubishi has a solid reputation and built the Triton to be everyone’s strong partner, whether for fun adventures or heavy job.
The Triton is powerful under the hood, ready to take on any challenge. It has a strong engine that gives it plenty of power and torque. This lets it tow boats, trailers, or campers easily, ensuring you have a smooth and confident drive.
The Mitsubishi Triton’s high towing capacity shows it’s built tough and smart. This makes it a prime choice for those who need a reliable towing vehicle for various tasks.
The Triton comes with features perfect for those who love to tow. It has advanced traction control, strong tow hitches, and trailer sway control. These ensure towing is safe and smooth, even on rough roads.
| Engine | Towing Capacity | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L MIVEC Turbo Diesel | 3,100 kg | 430 Nm |
| 2.4L MIVEC Petrol | 3,000 kg | 243 Nm |
For those who love the outdoors or need a dependable work partner, the Mitsubishi Triton stands out. It combines power, capability, and versatility into one great package. With its high towing capacity, you’re ready for any journey ahead.
Isuzu D-Max
The Isuzu D-Max isn’t as common on New Zealand’s roads but has a strong following. It is especially loved in Southeast Asia. The 2017 model got a big upgrade. Now it has 430Nm of torque from its 3.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, making it a top choice for tough jobs.
Vehicles Suitable for Hauling Heavy Loads
The Isuzu D-Max is perfect for those who need to tow heavy things. It’s built strong and has a powerful engine. With this, it can handle big towing jobs easily. So, whether you’re moving a boat, caravan, or heavy equipment, the D-Max’s great towing capacity means you’re all set.
Popular Models Among New Zealanders
Even though it’s not as popular as some utes in New Zealand, the Isuzu D-Max has a loyal fan base. This is because it’s tough and reliable. The 2017 model update especially caught the eye of buyers wanting a truck for heavy-duty towing that’s also comfortable and dependable.
| Safety Feature | Rating/Score |
|---|---|
| ANCAP Safety Rating | 5-star (across entire D-Max range) |
| Child Occupant Protection | 44/49 points (89%) |
| Adult Occupant Protection | 83% (8 airbags, including far-side airbag) |
| Safety Assist | 81% (AEB with Turn Assist and other features) |
| Far-Side Occupant Protection | 3.5/4 points (first vehicle tested under new 2020 regime) |
The Isuzu D-Max stands out for its high safety ratings, including 5 stars from ANCAP. It also scores well in different protection areas. This makes it a top choice for safety-conscious New Zealanders looking for a tough truck for both heavy towing and daily use.
Isuzu D-Max
The Isuzu D-Max is tough and has a truck-like shape. It’s made to handle rough terrain and pull heavy things with ease. With a strong look, it’s the top pick for those who love the outdoors and need a trusty tow.
Rugged Design for Towing
The Isuzu D-Max stands out with its tough look and solid build. It can handle pulling big loads. This is thanks to its strong structure and a frame that adds stability. This means a smooth ride even when carrying a lot.
Isuzu D-Max’s Towing Capacity and Performance
The Isuzu D-Max has a 3.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine. It gives out a strong 130kW of power and 430Nm of torque. With this setup, the D-Max can pull up to a massive 3,500kg towing capacity. It’s a great choice for very tough towing jobs.
Even though it’s a bit noisier because of its diesel engine, the Isuzu D-Max overcomes this with its performance. It’s ready to pull anything, from boats to trailers or heavy tools, with no problem.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0-liter 4-cylinder Diesel | 130kW | 430Nm | 3,500kg |
The Isuzu D-Max impresses with its sturdy design and strong towing abilities. It’s a top choice for those who need a dependable power for their trips or work that needs heavy pulling.
Nissan Navara
The Nissan Navara is top-rated for its ability to tow. It’s designed with a strong build for this task. And yet, it offers a smooth drive for those behind the wheel.
Navara’s Suspension and Towing Updates
The Navara’s suspension system has seen big improvements for towing. Changes to the rear springs make it better at handling heavy loads. Now, the Navara drives smoothly, even when towing big trailers.
Engine Options for Optimal Towing Performance
For the right engine, the Nissan Navara gives you two solid choices. You can go with either a single-turbo or a twin-turbo 2.3-liter engine. Each can pull up to 3,500kg. The single-turbo is great for regular towing, while the twin-turbo adds power for heavier loads or rough roads.
| Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Turbo | 2.3L | 140kW | 450Nm | 3,500kg |
| Twin-Turbo | 2.3L | 170kW | 500Nm | 3,500kg |
With these strong engines and a better suspension, the Navara is up for any towing job. It’s perfect for those who need a powerful truck for their adventures or work.
Mazda BT-50
The Mazda BT-50 is great for towing and saves on gas. It uses the same parts as the Ford Ranger. This helps the BT-50 have a strong 3.2-liter five-cylinder engine. It can tow up to 3,500kg and still use fuel efficiently at 10.0L/100km.
BT-50’s Shared Platform with Ford Ranger
Because Mazda and Ford work together, the BT-50 gets to be like the Ford Ranger. Sharing parts means the BT-50 towing capacity and performance match the Ranger. So, buyers get a powerful truck they can trust with their towing needs.
Towing Capacity and Fuel Efficiency
The Mazda BT-50 impresses with its towing power and being easy on gas. It can pull up to 3,500kg, handling various towing tasks easily. Plus, its 3.2-liter engine is efficient. This means you get to tow a lot without using tons of fuel.
| Model | Engine | Towing Capacity | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda BT-50 Ute | 2999cc Diesel | 3,500kg | 10.0L/100km |
The Mazda BT-50 Ute stands out with its 2999cc diesel engine. It’s strong enough for tough towing jobs and still saves on fuel. With a Gross Vehicle Mass of 3,100kgs, it’s ready for big towing tasks.
Holden Colorado
The Holden Colorado is perfect for anyone needing a vehicle with strong towing capacity. It has a 2.8-liter turbo diesel four-cylinder engine. This setup gives it a big push with 500Nm of torque. This puts it ahead of the strong Ford Ranger.
Colorado’s Powerful Turbo Diesel Engine
The Holden Colorado‘s towing power comes from its big turbo diesel engine. It has 500Nm of torque. This means it can pull even very heavy trailers with ease. So, moving things like boats or campers is smooth and easy with the Colorado.
Towing Capabilities and Model Variations
One of the Colorado‘s best features is its towing strength. The LTZ model stands out, able to tow up to 3,500kg. This makes it a great pick for heavy towing. But, even the lower models can handle good amounts. This provides options for many different needs and budgets.
Holden’s Colorado lineup caters to varied tastes and uses. From the tough LS types to the luxurious LTZ ones, customers can pick what fits them best. And, they all come with great towing capacity. This ensures everyone finds what they need in this powerful ute.
SsangYong Rhino
The SsangYong Rhino stands out. It’s a double-cab ute, related to the Rexton SUV. It shines with a strong Rhino towing capacity of 3,500 kg. Its solid rear axle gives it this power. The Rhino is powered by a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine, perfect for off-road towing tasks. It also offers a smooth ride for your daily drives.
Rhino’s Impressive Towing Capacity
The SsangYong Rhino impresses with its towing strength. It can handle up to 3,500 kg when braked. This means it’s great for moving big things like a boat or a camper trailer.
It relies on a powerful 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine. This engine gives you 133 kW of power and 420 Nm of torque. With this kind of performance, you can take on rough roads while towing without worries.
Unique Features for Towing and Off-Road Adventures
The Rhino also packs special features for towing and going off-road. It has advanced suspension with a wishbone setup at the front and a multi-link design at the back. This setup keeps your ride smooth over rough paths.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Capacity | 2.2 liters, 4 cylinders |
| Power Output | 133 kW |
| Torque | 420 Nm |
| Gross Trailer Weight (Braked) | 3,500 kg |
| Gross Trailer Weight (Unbraked) | 750 kg |
| CO2 Emission Rate | 258 g/km |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5,095 mm x 1,950 mm x 1,840 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2,090 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 2,880 kg |
| Warranty | 60 months or 100,000 km (with roadside assistance) |
The Rhino’s inside is all about comfort and ease. It comes with comfy vinyl seats, climate control, and a six-speaker audio setup. This system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Sadly, it doesn’t support Apple Wireless Connection. But there’s Android Wireless Connection available for convenience.
Volkswagen Amarok
The Volkswagen Amarok is a top choice for towing. It has strong V6 engines. The best one, a 3.0-liter V6 diesel, puts out 580Nm of torque. This lets the Amarok pull up to 3,500kg without trouble.
Amarok’s V6 Engine and Towing Performance
The Amarok owes its strong towing abilities to its Amarok V6 engine. This engine has a lot of torque and delivers power smoothly. It’s perfect for pulling trailers or caravans.
This makes the Amarok great for long trips or moving heavy stuff. Its engine ensures you can tow confidently and smoothly.
Amarok’s Suspension and Towing Accessories
For top towing performance, consider the optional suspension pack. It slightly lowers the towing capacity to 3,000kg. But don’t worry, Volkswagen provides many towing accessories.
These extras make sure your towing feels stable and controlled.
The Amarok comes in different trims to fit your needs and budget. You can get the Aventura V6 for luxury and advanced towing or more budget-friendly options.
So, the Amarok offers choices for everyone looking for a reliable towing truck.
Conclusion
I looked into the top towing vehicles in New Zealand. There’s a big range that can carry loads up to 3,500kg. You can choose from classics like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, to tougher choices like the Isuzu D-Max and Volkswagen Amarok. This gives Kiwis plenty of choices for their towing needs, whether you’re heading out for fun or moving big stuff.
These best towing vehicles nz have amazing hauling abilities. But, you must think about certain things. Such as, how heavy they are (from 1895kg to 2640kg), their Gross Combination Mass (GCM) (5910kg to 7000kg), and how much weight they can carry after towing (184kg to 1065kg). The amount of weight you can carry changes a lot, from 191kg to 700kg.
Take the Isuzu D-Max, for example. It can carry 600kg less because of its towing capacity. The VW Amarok, on the other hand, sees a 580kg drop in what it can carry after you account for the towing weight from its GCM. Knowing these details helps you find the perfect vehicle for your towing needs. And it helps you use it safely without pushing its limits.
