Whats the best car to tow ??

I tow a 2008 Mariner Hybrid. I just put it in neutral and unlock the steering wheel. You have to leave the key in to unlock the steering wheel. all the hybrids can be towed up to 70 mph per the manufacture. All Ford and Lincoln hybrids are towable in the same way. I have been towing mine since 2008. I haven't had a single issue. It makes a great everyday vehicle also.

willald wrote:


Indeed, Jeeps are very easy and simple when it comes to flat towing. However, they do not fit the bill for many folks, for various reasons.

Especially for those for which the 'toad' has to also serve as an everyday driving vehicle when not camping/RVing. Jeeps are awesome for going offroad, but that offroad prowess comes at a price in terms of road manners, comfort.

I know they've got much better in recent years, but overall, Jeeps can be a VERY uncomfortable ride on pavement, and due to their design they can also be extremely lacking in various 'creature comforts' many other vehicles have (yes, I have driven and rode in several of them). For that reason, many folks want nothing to do with them, for the vehicle they have to drive everyday.

Guess just goes back to the fact that there is no such thing as a 'best' car to tow, 'cause everyone's wants, needs, likes, dislikes, etc. are going to be very different. Whats best for one person will be horrible for another.

Will

While i don't disagree w/ some of what you say, far more folks own Wranglers that NEVER tow them behind a coach than do....and many of those owners use them as their daily driver.

I think you better go checkout the jeep JK (07-14) and more specifically go drive a 2012+ theyre A LOT different than you seem to recall.

prior to 2012 the 3.8L 6cyl engine was a little anemic at 202hp, BUT the '12+ 3.6L pentastar took care of that w/ its 285 hp....mpg isn't earth shattering at 17/21 but what 4x4 vehicle is & the jeeps aren't light (at 4200+ lbs)....luckily they tow considerably lighter (on all 4's) than they actually are.

4 door Wranglers (referred to as the UNLIMITED) can be VERY LUXURIOUS....FULL LEATHER heated & cooled seats, Highend Factory sound systems - by ALPINE w/ external amps, subwoofer, In-Dash Navigation, Satellite & Bluetooth.

and OMG they even have power door locks, power windows ;) control & full hardtops (w/ removable roof panels if you don't wanna take the entire hard top off. ;)

Jeep Wranglers hold their value better than ANY OTHER vehicle made - and thats multiple years RUNNING (was #2 prior to 2012 when it became #1 in holding its value)....as such it is THE TOP Vehicle for RE-SALE....the 2014 unlimited are predicted to hold 70% of its value after 3 years & more than 55% after 5 yrs !

willald wrote:

bshpilot wrote:
observations going down the road...i think you'll count more Jeep Wranglers being towed behind an RV than any other single make or model.

Indeed, Jeeps are very easy and simple when it comes to flat towing. However, they do not fit the bill for many folks, for various reasons.

Especially for those for which the 'toad' has to also serve as an everyday driving vehicle when not camping/RVing. Jeeps are awesome for going offroad, but that offroad prowess comes at a price in terms of road manners, comfort.

I know they've got much better in recent years, but overall, Jeeps can be a VERY uncomfortable ride on pavement, and due to their design they can also be extremely lacking in various 'creature comforts' many other vehicles have (yes, I have driven and rode in several of them).
Will

Will, you really need to test drive the new Jeep Cherokee (different from Grand Cherokee). It is a luxery car with very nice appointments along with lots of room for passengers and trunk space. It's quiet on the road and extremely comfortable. It will change you mind on Jeeps. :)

I have towed four different toads. First was a Jeep. It was a good off road vehicle, but not the best for everyday driving to the grocery store or inviting a couple to go have dinner.

Next was a Ford Ranger. Great little truck to haul things around, but could only carry three passengers total.

Next was a 2005 Honda Pilot EXL FWD. It was the most comfortable vehicle I have driven in a long time. Could carry up to eight passengers, all leather seats, heated. Lots of power. About the only thing I could say against it, is that it was a little on the heavy side at 4200 lbs. Great vehicle!

Next we bought a new 2013 CRV-EX. Very good tow vehicle, has plenty of power, but it does ride a little on the stiff side in comparison to the Pilot. Great gas mileage, and great trade in value.

There are many nice tow vehicles now days. I really liked the Grand Cherokee Jeep, but they told me you could not tow it, and then again it was too heavy which is what I was trying to get away from with the Pilot.

If you like what you have and it tows four down, go for it.

bshpilot wrote:
observations going down the road...i think you'll count more Jeep Wranglers being towed behind an RV than any other single make or model.

Im unaware of any other automotive brand manufacture that makes an optional wiring harness made specifically to enable folks to tow their brand/model behind an RV or other vehicle.

Indeed, Jeeps are very easy and simple when it comes to flat towing. However, they do not fit the bill for many folks, for various reasons.

Especially for those for which the 'toad' has to also serve as an everyday driving vehicle when not camping/RVing. Jeeps are awesome for going offroad, but that offroad prowess comes at a price in terms of road manners, comfort.

I know they've got much better in recent years, but overall, Jeeps can be a VERY uncomfortable ride on pavement, and due to their design they can also be extremely lacking in various 'creature comforts' many other vehicles have (yes, I have driven and rode in several of them). For that reason, many folks want nothing to do with them, for the vehicle they have to drive everyday.

Guess just goes back to the fact that there is no such thing as a 'best' car to tow, 'cause everyone's wants, needs, likes, dislikes, etc. are going to be very different. Whats best for one person will be horrible for another.

Will

I would like to thank all those who responded to my question regarding "What is the best car to tow". Your input is invaluable. I am sure I will have some more questions for this forum before I am finished, Thanks again. O.

Jeep Wrangler! no steering lock. Put Transfer case in neutral. GO! Right down to the MOPAR wire harness... http://www.mopar.com/part/82211156AB

observations going down the road...i think you'll count more Jeep Wranglers being towed behind an RV than any other single make or model.

Im unaware of any other automotive brand manufacture that makes an optional wiring harness made specifically to enable folks to tow their brand/model behind an RV or other vehicle.

Passin Thru wrote:
The one you pick because you might not like my Prius and I'm keeping it so I will be mad if you tow it.

..I think this answer pretty much sums it all up, nothing else really has to be said.

We have a 2009 Saturn Vue equipped with a Blue Ox hitch. We use the Saturn to drive around town and make short trips. It is a great car for towing and easy to hook up with the BO hitch. I put a switch in the fuse line to cut the fuse off and that is a real asset to a quick hook-up. A word of caution, Be sure the hitch pens are installed correctly. Read the directions carefully and enjoy. I would test drive several vehicles before making a decision if you plan to use as a second car.