As the Detroit automakers begin rolling out pickup trucks that meet a new Society of Automotive Engineers' towing standard, General Motors has extended the standard to its redesigned full-size SUVs for the 2015 model year.

GM's new mid-size pickups — the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon — as well as its full-size Silverado 1500 will comply with the SAE J2807 standard that requires rigorous testing of a vehicle's towing capabilities.

Additionally, GM's Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade will meet the standard for the 2015 model year, said Tom Wilkinson, communications manager for Chevrolet.

The Tahoe when equipped with the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V-8 with rear-wheel drive is rated to haul 8,500 pounds, while the four-wheel version is rated to haul 8,300 pounds. The rear-wheel Suburban with the same engine is rated to haul 8,300 pounds, while the four-wheel model can tow 8,000 pounds.

GM's heavy-duty pickups will meet the towing standard starting with the 2016 model year.