I'm just starting to look at getting a pre-owned vehicle with the intention of being able to tow it with likely a Class C (which I haven't bought yet). Have four criteria I'm trying to aim towards. 1. An SUV or vehicle with plenty of space. 2. The better the gas mileage the better..3. One that has excellent long term value and little maintenance. In this area, I sure wish there were more options available for Toyota (like the 4Runner), Honda, and Acura. 4. Automatic transmissionWhat are the best options out there with the least amount of hassles?Know that many veer towards the Jeep as it's geared towards dinghy towing.Just looking for others insight on and what they have experienced.

As a starting point, these may help. They aren't perfect, you should still research a vehicle before towing it, but these will give you some ideas. Dinghy guides

Thanks. Will read over. My ideal vehicle would be a 4Runner but not viable unless on a trailer.

Are you planning to tow 4 wheels down? If using a trailer, then I highly recommend Subaru Outback.

to tow 4 down, be sure to check the owner's manual for guidance. don't rely on third party smoke and mirrors.bumpy

Hands down get a Honda CRV. The last year made that can be rigged for flat towing was the 2014 year. Plenty of low mileage cars out there. Ours has been our toad for 3 years and it has been the most trouble free vehicle we have ever owned.We get about 30 mpg, and have a sunroof. There are AWD versions as well. A 2x2 hitch receiver can be easily mounted and that is where we attach the bike rack.

getting a tow vehicle | Good Sam Community

whemme
Explorer II
Oct 02, 2019
Also the topic title is misleading. It should instead be getting a toad vehicle. A tow vehicle is one doing the towing.
derh20
Explorer
Sep 29, 2019
You might want to consider a Ford C-Max. This is a small Crossover, but I find mostly ideal. They come in either a Hybrid or a plug in hybrid. Unfortunately, Ford stopped making them in 2019. I purchased one in 2018 because it can be towed 4-down, is an automatic and is a hybrid. The only downside I see for you is the limited cargo space.
vjstangelo
Explorer
Sep 02, 2019
Hands down get a Honda CRV. The last year made that can be rigged for flat towing was the 2014 year. Plenty of low mileage cars out there. Ours has been our toad for 3 years and it has been the most trouble free vehicle we have ever owned.

We get about 30 mpg, and have a sunroof. There are AWD versions as well. A 2x2 hitch receiver can be easily mounted and that is where we attach the bike rack.
Bumpyroad
Explorer
Sep 01, 2019
to tow 4 down, be sure to check the owner's manual for guidance. don't rely on third party smoke and mirrors.
bumpy
APT
Explorer
Sep 01, 2019
Are you planning to tow 4 wheels down? If using a trailer, then I highly recommend Subaru Outback.
southpoint
Explorer
Sep 01, 2019
Thanks. Will read over.
My ideal vehicle would be a 4Runner but not viable unless on a trailer.
wanderingaimles
Explorer
Sep 01, 2019
As a starting point, these may help.
They aren't perfect, you should still research a vehicle before towing it, but these will give you some ideas.
Dinghy guides

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