As the smallest SUV in the lineup, the compact 2019 Mazda CX-3 is not typically sought after for its towing prowess but for its impressive fuel economy. Nevertheless, the Mazda CX-3’s SKYACTIV®-G 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing churns out a respectable 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque and can tow up to 1,038 pounds when properly equipped, making it ideal for small trailers with minimal cargo.
The mid-range 2019 Mazda CX-5 offers more power under the hood. Unlike the Mazda CX-3, the Mazda CX-5 is powered by a SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine that boasts Cylinder Deactivation for greater fuel economy. With this engine, the CX-5 produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Not enough power for you? You can instead opt for the available SKYACTIV®-G 2.5T Dynamic Pressure Turbo DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing, good for 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine revolutionizes towing for a properly-equipped Mazda CX-5, bringing total capacity up to 2,000 pounds.
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 includes three rows of seating, making it the automaker’s most spacious and, by sheer size, most powerful SUV. The Mazda CX-5’s available Dynamic Pressure Turbo engine can be found under the hood of the 2019 Mazda CX-9, also generating 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. But for the Mazda CX-9, this engine can tow even greater capacities: up to a whopping 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.