I have owned and towed with 3 Honda's. A CR-V, Ody and Pilot.
CR-V and Ody towed a 12' popup, which was over the CR-V's weight limit so we did not travel much with it until we got the Ody.
The Ody was a great tow vehicle for a popup. Long wheelbase, ample power, and no need for a WDH with 350lb or less tongue weight.
With the Pilot, I towed a TT of around 4,000lbs and did require a WDH. You can in fact use a WDH with any Gen Pilot, Honda simple worded their cautionary statement weirdly making statements about an improperly adjusted WDH can cause handling problems. The 3rd Gen finally clarifies things.
Minivans have more space, get much better MPG, and are better for long hauls.
SUV's often have 4wd, more ground clearance and higher tow ratings.
Most everything will require ATF and P/S coolers be installed to tow up to their ratings.
There is no best option really. I mean, the best tow vehicle would be a 1 ton DRW diesel as a dedicated tow vehicle, right? Only you can decide what the best option is for you and your family.
