Q: Many drivers around the Mahoning Valley are surprised to learn how many Kia models are actually rated for towing. Which vehicles should a shopper look at first if they have a trailer or a small boat?

A: When I'm walking a family through our lot, I usually start by dispelling the myth that you need a massive pickup truck for every towing job. The Kia lineup has become incredibly robust, particularly with the 2027 Kia Telluride leading the charge with a 5,000 lb maximum towing capacity. For those who need something a bit more compact but still capable, the 2026 Kia Sorento offers up to 4,500 pounds of capacity in the X-Pro SX Prestige AWD trim. Even the 2026 Kia Carnival, our multi-purpose vehicle, is rated for 3,500 pounds when equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine. This versatility is perfect for the flatter terrain near the Tuscarawas River in Massillon, where many of our customers enjoy weekend trips with light watercraft or utility trailers. If you are interested in seeing these capabilities in person, you can visit our showroom at 7870 Market St or browse our 2027 Kia Telluride selection to find a model that fits your specific hauling needs.

A: Beyond the heavy hitters, we have options like the 2026 Kia Sportage, which can tow up to 2,500 pounds when properly equipped with trailer brakes. This is plenty for a pair of jet skis or a small pop-up camper. We also carry the all-new Kia K4 and the Kia K5 for those who prioritize a sedan but might only need to mount a bike rack or carry very light gear. For those looking for efficiency, our new Kia electric and hybrid models like the EV9 also offer a 5,000 lb rating. We always encourage shoppers to check our current new vehicle specials for offers on these tow-ready SUVs. If you have a specific trailer weight in mind, give our team a quick call at (234) 719-4832 and we can match you with the right 2026 Kia Sorento inventory or new Kia Carnival inventory. We even have Kia certified pre-owned vehicles and the latest Kia Seltos inventory for those looking for value and reliability in their next purchase.

Q: Looking ahead at the 2026 and 2027 lineups, which specific models stand out as having the highest towing limits?

A: The 2027 Kia Telluride remains the benchmark for our brand, consistently offering a 5,000 lb capacity across its V6-powered trims. The 2027 model includes X-Pro trims, which feature a heavy-duty cooling system to help manage the extra strain of towing in summer heat. Close behind is the 2026 Kia Sorento, which has seen its maximum rating climb to 4,500 pounds in the X-Line and X-Pro configurations. These vehicles are designed for the rolling wooded areas and river valley landscapes often found in Moon Township, where the extra pulling power is essential for navigating inclines while fully loaded. For those ready to explore these top-tier options, our new-vehicle inventory is the best place to start your search.

A: The Kia EV9 also matches the Telluride with a 5,000 lb limit, providing a high-torque electric option for owners who do not want to sacrifice utility. We also see a lot of interest in our used-vehicle inventory for previous years of these models, as the towing foundations have been solid for several generations now. For younger drivers or those buying their first tow-capable vehicle, we offer the First Key Program to help make the transition into a reliable SUV more accessible. Whether you are choosing a gas-powered V6 or a high-torque electric motor, these vehicles provide the muscle needed for serious hauling.

Q: Does a shopper absolutely need to choose an all-wheel-drive model to get the maximum towing numbers?

A: Maximum ratings are generally tied to All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations across the lineup. For example, the 2027 Kia Telluride requires AWD and the V6 engine to reach that 5,000 lb limit. The 2026 Kia Sorento follows a similar pattern; while the base FWD models with the 2.5L I4 engine are excellent for daily commuting, you need the turbocharged engine and AWD found in the X-Line or X-Pro trims to hit the 4,500 lb mark. All-wheel drive provides the necessary traction to get a heavy trailer moving from a standstill, especially on slippery boat ramps or gravel paths.

A: If you are currently driving a front-wheel-drive vehicle and realized you need more capability, our team can help you value your trade-in to see how much equity you can put toward a new AWD Kia. We understand that credit history can sometimes be a hurdle when moving up to a more capable trim level, which is why we offer the Credit Builder Auto Program to help our neighbors secure the vehicle they need. Having that extra traction provides confidence when the road gets tough or the load gets heavy.

Q: Towing can be stressful for some drivers, especially when it comes to changing lanes. What kind of technology does Kia offer to help with trailer safety?

A: Kia has integrated some incredible driver-assistance features that specifically cater to towing. One of the most popular is the Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live video feed of your adjacent lanes in the instrument cluster when you activate your turn signal. On models like the Telluride, this system can be calibrated to account for the length of your trailer. Furthermore, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 includes Junction Turning Detection, which is vital when you are navigating a long trailer through tight intersections. To see which models include these safety suites, you can start the process by prequalifying online for your next vehicle.

A: Trailer Stability Assist comes as a standard feature on many of our SUVs to monitor for trailer sway and automatically apply individual brakes or reduce engine power. For those who struggle with hitching up, the 360° Surround View Monitor provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle, making it much easier to line up the hitch ball with the trailer tongue on the first try. These technologies are designed to take the guesswork out of the process, allowing you to focus on the drive rather than worrying about what is happening behind the bumper.

Q: When a vehicle is used for towing regularly, which mechanical parts tend to see the most stress?

A: Towing puts a significant load on the braking system, the transmission, and the rear suspension. The 4-wheel Antilock Brakes System (ABS) works much harder to stop the combined mass of the vehicle and trailer, which is why we always recommend using a trailer brake controller for anything over 1,500 pounds. The transmission also generates more heat while shifting on inclines, which is why the heavy-duty cooling found in X-Pro trims is so valuable. To keep your vehicle in peak condition, we recommend using our online service scheduler for regular fluid checks and brake inspections. Our parts department stocks genuine Kia components that are specifically designed to handle these higher stress levels.

A: We also see more wear on the rear suspension components, particularly if the tongue weight is not properly balanced. Self-leveling rear suspension, available on certain Telluride trims, helps mitigate this by keeping the vehicle level even when a heavy trailer is attached. For those who prefer a vehicle that hasn't been pushed to its limits by a previous owner, we have a great selection of used one-owner vehicles that often come with full maintenance histories. Staying ahead of the maintenance curve is the best way to ensure your 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty remains fully protected while you enjoy your outdoor adventures.

Q: How does the Kia Telluride compare to a long-standing rival like the Toyota Highlander when it comes to actual pulling power?

A: While both vehicles are rated for a maximum of 5,000 pounds, the 2027 Kia Telluride uses a 3.8L V6 engine that provides smooth torque for pulling a heavy load up a highway grade. The Highlander uses a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder, which can feel more strained under maximum load compared to the Telluride's larger displacement. Additionally, the Telluride offers a sophisticated AWD system with Terrain Mode, giving you better control in mud or sand. You can often find great values on these capable SUVs by checking our used-vehicle inventory specials, where we frequently have late-model Tellurides ready for their next owner.

A: The Telluride features a 114-inch wheelbase, which is longer than the Highlander's 112-inch wheelbase, contributing to a more stable towing platform. When you combine that stability with the 8-speed automatic transmission, the Telluride often feels more composed during long hauls. We encourage shoppers to test drive both to feel the difference in power delivery, but for those who prioritize a confident towing experience, the Kia often comes out on top in real-world scenarios.

Q: For someone ready to buy a tow-capable Kia today, what are the next steps to ensure they get the right package?

A: Verifying the factory equipment is the most important step, as not every SUV on the lot comes with the towing package pre-installed. You want to look for the factory-installed OEM tow hitch and the 7-pin wiring harness. At Ken Ganley Kia Boardman, we can help you identify which specific VINs have the heavy-duty cooling and self-leveling suspension required for the highest ratings. If you have more questions about specific configurations, you can read more on our dealership blog or stop by for a consultation. Our Boardman showroom is conveniently located to serve the entire region.

A: Once you've found the right model, we'll walk you through the hitching process and explain how to use the Tow Mode setting in the Drive Mode Select system. This mode optimizes the transmission shift points to provide better engine braking and smoother acceleration while hauling. If you're ready to get started, give us a quick call to schedule a test drive. We are committed to making sure you leave with a vehicle that is not just safe for your family, but ready for every adventure you have planned.

Understanding the towing capabilities of the Kia lineup is the first step toward unlocking new possibilities for your family's travel and recreation. Whether you choose the high-capacity Telluride or the versatile Sorento, you are backed by Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty and a suite of advanced safety technologies. At Ken Ganley Kia Boardman, we pride ourselves on being the local experts who can help you navigate these technical specifications with honesty and transparency. Visit us today to find the perfect tow-ready Kia and experience the dedicated support our team provides every step of the way.