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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.