I did cross the Appalachian mountains in TN and KY but like the cross winds it is part of the trip.
I ran the tow haul feature, and had no difficulties keeping up with the traffic.
The braking seemed neutral except for one hard stop when I missed a stop sign at a deserted intersection. I thought it would stop sooner, so another lesson learned.
With no TT my around town TV mileage is 15 mpg. and 18 mpg. with the cruise set at 70 mph. on the Interstate. I have at times approached 20 mpg. on the highway but it is the exception, 18 is typical for me.