What is the best ute for towing capabilities?

The 3.5-tonne towing capacity is a relatively recent thing, Alexander. I’m not sure there would be much choice within your price-range that will do the specific job you’re asking of it. Look at something like a 2012 to 2014 base-model Ford Ranger 4X4 with the bigger, 3.2-litre engine. That has the towing capacity you’re after at around the price you’re looking at. Be prepared for it to have covered plenty of kilometres at that price, though.