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kjmiller127's avatar
kjmiller127
Explorer
May 15, 2018

Towing a pop up with 4cylinder SUV

My current lease on a 6-cylinder Chevy Equinox with factory towing package is up soon and I'm thinking about getting another Equinox.

I got the 6-cylinder (able to tow up to 3500lbs) to tow my pop up camper (2006 Forest River Flagstaff 206ltd, 1,450bs)

I'm thinking about getting a 4-cylnder Equinox now (can tow 1,500lbs) because I only camp 3-5 times a summer, no longer than 3 hours away, and mostly on highways and back roads, rarely up and down big hills. The 6-cylinder and more power costs decent amount more money and I only need it for towing my pop up.

Can I get by with the 4-cylinder model of the equinox? Thanks!
  • That 1450lbs number is the fantasy dry weight.
    Loaded for camping, it'll exceed the 1500lbs towing capacity of the 4cyl car, which is rated with only a 150lb driver in it.
  • A 4 cylinder Equinox is not designed to tow anything. Don't buy it and don't lease it.
  • Here's a thought: why not just rent a truck to tow your camper for those few times you go camping? Compare the cost of the less-expensive lease to the overall cost of renting a truck.

    I'm pretty sure you'll be over your limits for towing and payload with the 4-cylinder you're considering.

    -Speak
  • Why don't you just buy out the 6-cyl you have now?

    FYI - your actual purchase price is probably a lot less than the original stated residual value, because those values are often inflated to cause more attractive lease terms, and the Equinox has lower resale values than most of its class, meaning you can probably negotiate a very nice buy-out.
  • Not likely. That 1500 pound towing rating is for a bare bones vehicle with one 150 pound person. Add more, subtract towing ability.
    Your 1500 pound tent trailer, is that fully loaded ready to go or the advertised "dry" weight? Again, loaded for a trip your likely more than a 4 bangers towing rating.
  • Given the parameters you have stated, my guess is that you would be fine. This is only a guess however.
    Barney

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