Can You Tow an RV With a BMW SUV? What X3, X5, X6, and X7 Can Actually Handle

BMW might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about towing an RV. But for drivers who want a blend of luxury, capability, and comfort on the road, the idea starts making a lot more sense.

The brand’s X-Series SUVs—X3, X5, X6, and X7—aren’t just about refined interiors and high-performance engines. When properly equipped, they can also pull more than you’d expect.

So if you’re wondering whether your BMW SUV can handle an RV—and more importantly, what kind of RV—it’s not a simple yes or no.

Let’s break down what each model can realistically tow, what extra gear you’ll need, and what to watch out for when hitting the road with a trailer hitched behind your German-engineered ride.

Can BMW SUVs Tow RVs? Yes, But Know Their Limits

Let’s get one thing out of the way: yes, BMW SUVs can tow RVs. Some are better suited for light towing—like compact campers and teardrops—while others, like the BMW X5 or X6, can handle medium-to-large travel trailers without breaking a sweat.

That said, towing capacity isn’t just a marketing number. It depends on several things: engine configuration, towing equipment, vehicle load, and more.

Getting those details wrong can lead to a frustrating (or unsafe) trip. So before you hitch up and head out, you need to look at what your particular BMW is built to do.

BMW Towing Capacity by Model

Let’s take a closer look at what each BMW SUV can handle, based on factory-rated towing limits and common configurations:

These numbers are helpful starting points, but always double-check your exact model’s owner’s manual or consult a dealer. BMW’s towing specs can vary year to year, even between trims on the same model.

BMW X3

The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV, and while it isn’t built for heavy-duty towing, it’s perfectly capable of hauling smaller RVs. The 2024 X3 is rated for up to 4,400 lbs when you’ve got the factory-installed trailer hitch.

So what can that get you on the road?

Ideal for:

• Teardrop trailers
• Pop-up campers
• Lightweight travel trailers under 4,000 lbs

Examples:

• Airstream Basecamp (~2,600 lbs)
• Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro (~3,000 lbs)

If you’re planning weekend getaways or minimalist camping trips, the X3 offers enough towing power without sacrificing everyday drivability. Just leave the big rigs for the bigger models.

For those needing assistance with transporting their RVs, especially across long distances, consider exploring nationwide RV transport services to ensure safe and efficient delivery. Whether it’s a seasonal move or a relocation to a distant park, professional transport services can simplify logistics and reduce wear on personal vehicles.

BMW X5

The X5 is BMW’s most versatile towing SUV. With a capacity of up to 7,200 pounds, it bridges that comfortable middle ground between family SUV and utility hauler.

Keep in mind that towing that much requires the optional trailer hitch, which runs about $550. You’ll also want to factor in a wiring harness and trailer brake controller for safety and legal compliance.

Best for:

• Medium to large travel trailers
• Family-sized RVs

Examples:

• Jayco Jay Flight SLX (~5,500 lbs)
• Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite (~5,800 lbs)

You can pull plenty of RVs with the X5 without worrying about overloading it—just keep an eye on cargo weight inside the trailer.

BMW X6

Don’t let the X6’s coupe-style profile fool you—it’s got muscle under the hood. Depending on the trim, the 2020 X6 can tow up to 7,500 pounds, putting it in the same league as the X5.

That said, the towing figure can drop to 6,000 pounds on certain trims. So you’ll need to be careful about which engine and configuration you’re working with.

Good for:

• Mid-size and heavier travel trailers
• Those who want performance and towing

RV examples:

• Keystone Bullet Crossfire (~6,500 lbs)
• Grand Design Transcend (~6,700 lbs)

The X6 is ideal if you want both form and function—stylish enough to pull up at a resort, strong enough to haul your basecamp.

BMW X7

You’d think the BMW X7, brand’s largest SUV, would be the towing king of the lineup. But interestingly, it doesn’t top the charts.

Most 2020 trims are rated around 5,400 to 5,950 pounds, though earlier 2019 models show figures closer to 7,500 pounds.

Why the difference? Likely due to drivetrain changes, weight distribution, or engine tuning. So if you’re shopping new, double-check with BMW or your dealer.

Capable of:

• Medium RVs
• Heavier trailers only if the weight is carefully managed

Examples:

• Lance 2285 Travel Trailer (~4,300 lbs)
• Dutchmen Kodiak Ultra-Lite (~5,200 lbs)

It’s a comfortable tow vehicle for long-distance hauls, but you may be slightly more limited in what trailers you can pair it with compared to the X5 or X6.

What Kinds of RVs Can You Tow?

It all comes down to weight, and we’re not just talking the dry weight listed on the brochure. Add water, food, gear, propane, batteries, bikes, coolers, etc., and you’re looking at the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating), not just base trailer weight.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common RV categories:

And anything over 9,000 pounds? You’ll want to look at full-size trucks like a Ram 2500 or Ford F-150 instead.

Essential Gear You’ll Need

BMWs aren’t shipped ready to tow right out of the gate. You’ll need to get some equipment sorted:

Trailer Hitch

• Required for any towing
• Factory or dealer-installed
• For the X5, expect to spend ~$550

Wiring Harness

• Required to connect trailer lights and brakes

Brake Controller

• Necessary for trailers with electric brakes (usually anything over 3,000 lbs)

Sway Control and Weight Distribution Hitch

• Greatly improves highway stability
• Highly recommended for trailers over 4,000 lbs

BMW doesn’t package all this into a “towing package” like some brands do. You’ll need to buy items à la carte or through BMW’s accessories department.

What’s Safe, What’s Pushing It?

Let’s say you’ve got a 2024 BMW X5 and you’re eyeing a Jayco Jay Flight SLX at 5,500 pounds GVWR.

With a max capacity of 7,200 pounds, you’re in a great spot—even when factoring in tongue weight and cargo. Add a sway bar, wiring harness, and a good hitch setup, and you’re golden.

But now imagine you’re considering a Grand Design Reflection at 9,000 pounds. Even if your X5 is rated at 7,200 pounds, you’re well over the limit. That’s a no-go, no matter how confident you feel behind the wheel.

Towing Safety Tips With BMW SUVs

Even when you’re under the weight limit, how you tow matters just as much:

• Distribute weight evenly in the RV to avoid swaying
• Check tire pressure on both your SUV and trailer
• Practice reversing in a parking lot or a wide-open space
• Use your mirrors—BMW’s stock mirrors aren’t ideal for trailers, so consider towing mirrors
• Drive slower than usual—wind gusts and trailer sway can get dicey over 65 mph
• Inspect before every trip: check hitch, safety chains, and trailer lights

What About Fuel Efficiency?

There’s no getting around it—towing kills fuel economy. A BMW X5 that normally gets 23 mpg on the highway might dip into the low teens with a trailer in tow. If you’re traveling long distances, plan for more frequent fuel stops and higher costs overall.

When a BMW SUV Isn’t Enough

Let’s be honest—there are limits. If you’re planning to tow:

• A fifth-wheel RV
• A travel trailer over 8,000 lbs loaded
• Something with multiple axles and slide-outs

Final Thoughts

Can you tow an RV with a BMW SUV? Yes—absolutely. Whether you’re rolling with an X3 and a teardrop trailer or an X5 and a 28-foot camper, BMW offers real capability in a sleek, luxury package. But like anything with towing, you’ve got to get the details right.

Check your exact model specs, factor in tongue weight and GVWR, and invest in proper equipment. Do that, and you’re well on your way to trading in your hotel keys for a fire pit and some open sky.