Forum Discussion

OkanaganAmanda's avatar
Mar 31, 2021

Looking for SUV recommendation

Currently have a Hyundai Santa Fe and used it to tow a light tent trailer (no trailer brakes), no problem. With Covid closing bathhouses, we have been looking to upgrade, and just bought a Jayco Jay Flight SLX7 184BS model (dry weight of about 3400lbs).

We need to trade in the SUV to something that can safely tow this (Santa Fe is limited to 1600lbs). Still prefer an SUV and this will be my primary vehicle for work, school drop offs etc, (camping a few times each summer). Gas mileage is important as we are in BC where gas prices are ridiculously high (I get about 8L/100km with the Santa Fe with is pretty good).

Which SUVs would anyone recommend that would tow this trailer well but still be a good everyday vehicle? We have two kids (in booster seats) and a dog. Appreciate any insight you might have!

35 Replies

  • It appears the GVWR of your trailer is 4300lbs. Use that in your calculations rather than the dry weight.

    Be sure to consider the payload of the tow vehicle.

    I agree with packpe89 about the body on frame versus unibody.

    I would look at SUVs with a towing capacity of 6000lbs. That gives you enough leeway that you won't struggle in the mountains, etc.
  • Wet and loaded your new TT will weigh 5,000 pounds and have a tongue weight of 650 to 750 pounds. Clearly need a Tahoe or equivalent SUV.
  • ^BC mountains towing, I'd err on the side of bigger= better in this scenario for sure. Like packape said.

    However, I'm not certain the OP had a basically $100k cdn kid hauler in mind. If so, then nicely done!

    Personally, I'd want a Durango/Grand Cherokee/Explorer (or EU equivalents) on the small end or a Tahoe/Burb/Expedition on the big end.
  • I would prefer a body on frame. Durango or Tahoe would fit the bill. Tahoe can be had with the new 3.0 diesel so mileage would be good.