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Towing and trucks

74 articles · Page 1

This section gathers the site's coverage of towing and truck buying. Articles explain how towing capacity is calculated and what published vehicle towing ratings leave out, from payload and hitch limits to brake controllers and towing checklists for trailers, boats, campers and car haulers. Alongside this sit pickup truck comparisons, mid-size truck matchups, electric truck coverage and buying guides that weigh reliability, dealer pricing and total cost of ownership. Cargo-focused pieces test SUV and car cargo space against spec-sheet claims and look at roof carriers, bike racks and car shipping services. Together the articles are aimed at readers choosing a tow vehicle or planning a load.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a vehicle's towing capacity calculated?

Towing capacity is derived from the manufacturer's weight ratings rather than engine power alone, and it depends on payload, passengers and equipment already in the vehicle. The published maximum usually applies to a lightly loaded truck in one specific configuration. Articles here show how to work through the numbers for the exact vehicle and load involved.

Why do real cargo figures differ from the spec sheet?

Quoted cargo volume is measured to a standard that does not reflect the shape of luggage, bikes or camping gear. Two vehicles with identical litre figures can swallow very different loads depending on floor length, wheel arch intrusion and seat folding. The comparison articles report measured capacity instead of catalogue claims.

What should be checked before towing a trailer or boat?

A pre-trip check covers the hitch and coupling, tyre pressures, lights, load distribution and whether a brake controller is fitted and set correctly. Weights should be confirmed against the tow vehicle's limits, not estimated. The towing checklist and safety articles set out these steps in order.