Forum Discussion

precioustime's avatar
precioustime
Explorer II
Jun 04, 2021

Suggestion to purchase an SUV to tow behind my Class A!

My 34’ class A presently tows a 2016 Ford Fiesta with no problems but would like to upgrade to an SUV with more space and comfort. Must be “flat towed” with all wheels on the ground! No tow dolly! Looking for 4 door, suv, not too expensive, reliable with good reviews. Not too expensive to prepare the front grill for towing either. Open for any advise.
  • The easiest to tow, most reasonably priced SUV available is a Chevrolet Equinox. Look for a 2017 to 2010 model either 4cyl or 6cyl. I prefer the 6cyl models due to their hydraulic steering and better performance. 4down towable, no modifications needed just hookup, pull one fuse, put in neutral, turn key to off, DO NOT REMOVE THE KEY, and your ready to go. I have one and have towed it over 25,000 miles with no problems.
  • A good first place to start looking is to check the Motorhome Magazine Dinghy Towing Guides is a great place to start, however it was last updated in 2020 so it’s dated and I’m unsure if they will be updating for 2021. It provides a great overview, but doesn’t get into many details. Keep in mind that some vehicles that could be towed one year might not be recommended the next year, either changes to electronics, transmission, engine or the bean counters can all influence the change.

    The ultimate authority is the actual Owners Manual that came with the vehicle. In most cases you can do a Google Search with the year make and model to find one online. But you will want to verify with the actual owners manual of that vehicle to be sure since sometimes the online ones might differ from the actual. Generally speaking you want to look for the section on "Recreational Towing" in the owners manual.

    There are users that find out that they can tow four down just fine, going against what the manufacture states. If you go this route you’re on your own if there are any damages, this is why many won’t risk violating the warranty by towing against the owners manual recommendation.
  • We tow a 13 Ford Explorer. The Explorer and Edge are both 4 down towable not sure of the very recent ones. You also have the Jeep,Cherokee with Active Drive II and the Grand Cherokee with the 2 speed T-case.
  • Don’t take anyone’s word that a specific vehicle is four down towable. Check the manufacturer’s materials.
  • Good advice. Maybe other members can advise the OP on what would meet their criteria.
  • You could start here. Dinghy guides

    These guides help, but with any vehicle, ensure the exact one you are considering will allow it. Check via the Owners manual whenever possible.