Volvo XC90 Vs. Volvo XC60: Comparing Towing Capacity & Performance

When you're trying to identify the best SUV for your upcoming vacation, a Volvo XC60 vs. Volvo XC90 towing capacity comparison may prove helpful. Both models offer premium amenities, excellent safety technology, available tow hitches, and comfortable seating to help your family make memories at any destination. However, because one SUV is a two-row midsize vehicle and the other a three-row model, the 2026 Volvo XC90 towing capacity differs from that of its smaller sibling.

At Volvo Cars of Cary, we know how important it is to tow safely. Let's explore the Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC90 tow limits so that you can plan your vacation accordingly.

Volvo XC60 vs. Volvo XC90 Towing Capacity: Year Over Year

When you purchase a brand-new Volvo XC90, or benefit from one of our expansive Volvo XC90 lease deals in Cary, you can tow up to 5,000 pounds, regardless of your trim level or engine choice.¹ Every Volvo XC90 can be equipped with a trailer-assistance framework to ensure you're supported no matter the performance or comfort features you need.

The Volvo XC90 towing capacity may be higher, but our Volvo XC60 lease deals in Cary remain enticing for a simple reason: the Volvo XC60 is a smaller SUV that can still tow up to 3,500 pounds.¹ Families that don't need a third row or the extra power of the Volvo XC90 can still comfortably tow small fishing boats, some campers, and Jet Skis. This year's Volvo XC60 towing capacity is ideal for short excursions, while the Volvo XC90 is preferable as your family grows or if you need to haul a larger fishing boat or utility trailer.

Compare the 2026 Volvo XC60 towing capacity to older model years and see how it stacks up against the Volvo XC90.

Volvo XC60 vs. Volvo XC90 Towing Capacity: Plug-In Hybrid Versions

Thinking about adding an electric range to your lifestyle? Both the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid towing capacity and the Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid towing capacity match their all-gas versions, so you can be confident regardless of what level of electrification you choose. This consistency has remained through the plug-in hybrid lifespan of the Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC90: from the Recharge days to the modern PHEV.

If you're considering a Volvo model with all-electric range, you can buy Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid SUVs from our team.

Volvo XC60 vs. Volvo XC90 Towing Capacity: What Can You Tow?

With a maximum of 3,500 pounds at your disposal,¹ here are some trailers that the Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC60 PHEV can handle:

• Small recreational vehicles (canoes, Jet Skis, motorcycles)
• Small fishing boats
• Tow dollies (small equipment, like lawnmowers)
• Small open utility trailers
• Small campers (teardrop, A-frame)

With their larger maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds,¹ the Volvo XC90 Volco XC90 PHEV can haul anything its little sibling can, as well as:

• Medium-sized boats
• Medium-sized utility trailers
• Pop-up campers
• Travel trailers
• Small dump trailers

Before You Tow

Volvo SUVs are competent towing companions. However, to reach the specified maximum towing capacities, the Volvo XC90 and Volvo XC60 do require some optimal conditions:

• The trailer must be equipped with brakes.
• The tongue of the trailer must be no more than 10% of its total weight.
• The SUV must not be overburdened in the standard cargo hold.
• The tires must be carefully inspected for proper pressure before hitching.

In addition, be careful when hitching the trailer to your new Volvo SUV and follow these rules:

• Always check the weight of your trailer after adding any items, like coolers, fishing rods, and vehicles.
• Ensure the tongue weight of the trailer is no more than 10% of the SUV's maximum towing capacity (350 pounds for the Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC60 PHEV, 500 pounds for the Volvo XC90 and Volvo XC90 PHEV).¹
• Properly balance cargo so the weight is evenly distributed between the front and back of your trailer.
• When hitching, utilize the available 360-degree camera of the Volvo SUV or have someone guide you toward the haul.
• Before heading out, practice turning, stopping, and accelerating with your trailer. It typically takes longer to perform all three activities.

Experience the Volvo XC60 vs. Volvo XC90 Towing Capacity Comparison at Volvo Cars of Cary

Once you visit our store, you'll see why the Volvo XC60 for sale near Durham is such a joy to tow with: the standard Trailer Light Check, All-Wheel Drive, and Hill Descent Control are just the start.

Those features are also present in the Volvo XC90 for sale in Cary, so you can choose your preferred size and seating capacity without sacrificing helpful towing capability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can a Volvo XC90 tow?

With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, the Volvo XC90 is capable of towing small vehicles with ease. It can also handle smaller campers, such as A-frame or teardrop campers, as well as smaller utility trailers, making it feel truly versatile on the road. However, it's important to weigh your trailer after packing equipment on it to avoid overburdening your SUV.

What is the difference in towing capacity between the Volvo XC60 and the Volvo XC90?

Generally, the Volvo XC90 has about 1,500 pounds more towing ability than the Volvo XC60.¹ Some model years gave the Volvo XC90 a greater advantage, since the Volvo XC60 was once limited to a maximum capacity of 3,300 pounds.¹ However, its current limit of 3,500 pounds is still plenty for most tasks, such as hauling a motorcycle or ATV.¹

What factors affect the towing capacity of a Volvo XC90 or Volvo XC60?

Several factors can affect the towing ability of your Volvo SUV, including:

• Tire pressure
• Payload
• Trailer brakes
• Added accessories

If you want to tow without risking damage to your SUV, you should reduce the weight that goes onto the vehicle itself (including passengers and the tongue weight of your trailer).

Volvo Model Research In Cary, NC

¹When properly equipped.