Hyundai Palisade Towing Capacity by Year (2020-2026)

Palisade max tow by year from launch in 2020. The 3.8L V6 with optional Tow Hitch Package puts it at 5,000 lb on AWD.

📊 2014-2026🛻 OEM tow ratings✓ J2807 compliant

📋 Quick Facts

Brand
Hyundai
Model
Palisade
Years Covered
2014-2026
Peak Tow
5,000 lb
Payload
1,455-1,624 lb

Hyundai Palisade max trailer-tow ratings by model year. Always cross-reference your vehicle's exact configuration on the door-jamb tow sticker and in the owner's manual towing guide.

📊 Hyundai Palisade Towing Capacity Table

YearTop-Tow Engine / ConfigMax Towing
20263.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
20253.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
20243.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
20233.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
20223.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
20213.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
20203.8L V6 + Tow Hitch Package, AWD5,000 lb
2019Not in production (launched 2020)N/A
2018Not in production (launched 2020)N/A
2017Not in production (launched 2020)N/A
2016Not in production (launched 2020)N/A
2015Not in production (launched 2020)N/A
2014Not in production (launched 2020)N/A

Capacities shown are manufacturer maximum ratings for properly equipped configurations. Your actual capacity depends on trim, engine, drivetrain, axle ratio, and whether the factory tow package is fitted. Check the door-jamb sticker and owner's manual before towing.

📝 Configuration Notes

Palisade shares the Kia Telluride chassis and 3.8L V6, but tops out at 5,000 lb (vs Telluride's 5,500 lb with SLRS) because it lacks the self-leveling rear suspension option. FWD models tow the same 5,000 lb with the Tow Hitch Package. Without the package, default rating drops to 2,000 lb due to insufficient cooling.

The Tow Hitch Package brings a Class III receiver hitch, 4-pin and 7-pin trailer connectors, factory trailer-sway control, transmission cooler, and an alternator upgrade. There is no factory integrated brake controller - you must add an aftermarket unit for any trailer over roughly 3,000 lb GVWR. Payload runs about 1,455-1,624 lb depending on trim.

🔧 What a Tow Package Actually Adds

  • Class III or IV hitch receiver - factory-rated for the published tongue and trailer weight. Aftermarket hitches often have lower ratings.
  • Transmission cooler - keeps ATF temperature under control on long grades. Without it, the transmission overheats and shifts harshly under load.
  • Hitch wiring with 7-pin connector - the 7-pin handles trailer brakes, reverse lights, and battery charge. A 4-pin only carries running lights and turn signals.
  • Integrated brake controller - on most full-size trucks but NOT this vehicle - add aftermarket if towing over 3,000 lb GVWR. Smooths braking and prevents trailer jackknife.
  • Heavier alternator - feeds the trailer brake controller and trailer battery charge line without dimming the headlights.
  • Trailer sway control + sometimes a numerically-higher rear axle ratio - reduces sway above 55 mph and gives better acceleration under load.
⚠ Read this before you tow Manufacturer numbers are SAE J2807 ratings - hot, loaded, at altitude, with a level trailer. They are NOT a target to hit. Real safe-tow weight is limited by GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating), tongue weight, brakes, and tire load index. Many owners overload tongue weight without realizing it, which causes trailer sway above 55 mph.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find the exact tow rating for my Hyundai Palisade?
Open the driver's door and look for the yellow Tire and Loading Information sticker on the door jamb - the trailer-tow rating is printed there. The owner's manual towing section lists ratings by VIN-decoded engine, drivetrain, and package.
Does the Tow Hitch Package actually matter?
Yes. It adds a Class III or IV hitch receiver, 7-pin trailer connector, transmission cooler, heavier alternator. Without it, max tow can be 2,000-3,000 lb lower than the advertised peak.
Should I tow at the maximum capacity?
No. Stay below 80% of max in real-world use. SAE J2807 ratings come from lab and track tests with one 150 lb driver. Once you add passengers, fuel, cargo, and a hot day, the safety margin disappears.
What is GCWR and is it more important than tow rating?
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) is the maximum your Hyundai Palisade plus loaded trailer can weigh together. Many owners hit GCWR before hitting tow rating once they load the vehicle with passengers and gear. Tow rating alone is not the limit. Read /what-is-gross-combined-weight-rating.
What tongue weight should I target?
10-15% of the loaded trailer weight, measured at the coupler. Below 10% causes trailer sway. Above 15% overloads the rear axle and lightens the front, ruining steering. A weight-distribution hitch helps for heavier trailers. See /weight-distribution-hitch-explained.
Do I need a brake controller for the Hyundai Palisade?
Yes - any trailer over roughly 3,000 lb GVWR requires its own electric brakes plus a controller in the tow vehicle. Hyundai Palisade does not have a factory integrated brake controller - install an aftermarket unit. See /brake-controller-for-trailer-explained.
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