Best Used Vans and Pick-Ups for Towing

If you're regularly hauling trailers, equipment or even caravans, finding the right van or pick-up with solid towing credentials is crucial. While new models are tempting, many used vans and pick-ups can tow just as well – offering excellent capability without the premium price tag.

Here’s our guide to the best used vans and pick-ups for towing, all available with impressive pulling power.

Best Used Pick-Ups for Towing

1. Ford Ranger – 3,500kg

A firm favourite in the UK, the Ford Ranger is known for its rugged reliability and versatility. Whether you're towing a horsebox, trailer or plant machinery, the Ranger handles it all with confidence. Choose a 2.0-litre EcoBlue or the older 3.2-litre five-cylinder for serious muscle.

2. Mitsubishi L200 – 3,500kg

The Mitsubishi L200 is a capable workhorse with a smooth drive and strong reputation. It combines comfort with practicality, making it ideal for both business and leisure towing. It also boasts a good payload capacity and clever 4WD system.

3. Toyota Hilux – 3,500kg

The Hilux is almost legendary for its dependability, even in the harshest conditions. As a used buy, it’s a smart investment for anyone needing a no-nonsense pick-up that can tow heavy loads without breaking a sweat.

4. Volkswagen Amarok – 3,100kg

With a refined cabin and punchy V6 engine options, the Volkswagen Amarok delivers both performance and comfort. It's not quite at the 3.5-tonne level, but 3.1 tonnes is still plenty for most heavy-duty towing tasks.

Best Used Vans for Towing

1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – 3,500kg

A favourite among fleet operators, the Sprinter offers excellent towing ability, a strong diesel engine range and a huge load space. It's ideal if you're carrying tools and towing gear simultaneously.

2. Ford Transit – 3,500kg

The classic Transit is one of the most versatile vans on the road. With the right engine and tow bar fitted, it can pull up to 3,500kg. It’s a popular all-rounder that’s easy to drive and cheap to maintain.

3. Volkswagen Transporter – 2,500kg

If you don’t need the full 3,500kg, the Transporter still offers solid towing performance and a more car-like feel behind the wheel. Great for tradespeople or businesses needing something dependable and refined.

4. Citroën Dispatch – 2,500kg

Compact yet capable, the Dispatch is a great used van for medium towing needs. It offers good economy and interior space while still pulling a respectable 2,500kg.

5. Toyota Proace – 2,500kg

Sharing its underpinnings with the Dispatch, the Proace brings Toyota’s reliability into the mix. It’s a sensible option for those needing a capable, mid-sized van with strong towing credentials.​

Whether you're in the market for a van that can double up as a mobile workshop or a pick-up that tackles tough terrain and trailers with ease, there are plenty of excellent used options. At Big Van World, we stock a wide range of used vans and pick-ups with serious towing power. Get in touch today and we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs.