*Not actual model
Hyundai of San Bruno – Can the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Tow a Small Trailer near South San Francisco, CA?
Towing with an EV is easier to understand when you break it into equipment, ratings, and real-world planning. If you are considering the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 for occasional towing near South San Francisco, CA, here is what you need to know to make confident, safe choices.
Official guidance matters. The IONIQ 5 has a maximum tow rating of 2700 pounds. Hyundai recommends towing only with the all-wheel drive XRT when equipped with the factory hitch. Towing is not recommended on rear-wheel drive configurations. That means your first step is confirming the exact model and equipment. Once you are set with AWD XRT and the factory hitch, you will want to consider your trailer’s loaded weight, tongue weight, and how you plan to use the vehicle across local terrain and highway trips.
- Know your numbers: Check the trailer’s gross trailer weight, the vehicle’s maximum tow rating, and ensure tongue weight stays within recommended limits.
- Choose the right hitch: Use the factory-installed hitch on AWD XRT, as recommended by Hyundai for towing.
- Balance the load: Distribute weight evenly and secure cargo to avoid sway, especially on coastal crosswinds and rolling grades.
- Plan charging stops: Use DC fast-charging stations along your route and allow extra time, as towing increases energy use.
- Drive mindfully: Increase following distance, moderate speeds, and use the IONIQ 5’s driver-assistance features to reduce fatigue.
Energy planning is the other key to a smooth towing day. Towing increases drag and weight, which raises consumption and reduces range compared to driving unladen. The IONIQ 5 can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in about 20 minutes on a compatible DC fast charger when conditions are ideal, so choosing stops near your route keeps you moving. If your routine includes weekend towing to trailheads or campgrounds, a Level 2 charger at home simplifies the midweek top-up and gets you ready for the next outing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which IONIQ 5 models are recommended for towing?
Hyundai recommends towing only with the AWD XRT equipped with the factory hitch. Rear-wheel drive models are not recommended for towing, and third-party hitches are not a substitute for Hyundai’s factory hardware and guidance.
How much can the IONIQ 5 tow?
The maximum tow rating is 2700 pounds when properly equipped. Verify the rating for your specific vehicle and never exceed the lowest-rated component in your towing setup.
How does towing affect range?
Expect a noticeable reduction in range due to added weight and aerodynamic drag. Plan shorter legs between DC fast-charging stops, and consider conservative speeds to help manage consumption.
What setup tips help with stability?
Balance your load, target proper tongue weight, and use a quality ball mount compatible with the factory hitch. Keep tires inflated to recommended pressures for both vehicle and trailer, and use driver-assistance features to maintain a calm, predictable pace.
If you want a clear, step-by-step walkthrough of AWD XRT towing and charging plans that fit your routes, our team can help you dial in the details. From identifying the right ball mount and wiring to mapping fast-charging stops, we focus on getting you road-ready with confidence. Reach out to Hyundai of San Bruno for guidance tailored to your use case—serving Pacifica, South San Francisco, and San Francisco with practical support for your EV life.
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