Midsize SUVs or Crossovers for Towing?

bradreynolds

I have never owned an SUV and have never had any desire to. I now find myself looking for something that I can haul tools, supplies, people, and someday soon, a small travel trailer like a teardrop. I am not a fan of the giant SUVs (Expeditions, Tahoes, Ukons, etc.) and have my eye on something a bit smaller and sportier AWD or FWD like the Santa Fe, Sorento, CX5 or similar but with still enough power to haul a 3k to 5k trailer. Is that even possible? I have been researching but it's a bit confusing so I thought I'd just ask it here. Thank you.

texases

At 5k you're looking more at a midsize CUV (Pilot, Highlander, etc), but check their tow rating first. You need the size and brakes of a bigger vehicle to handle a 5k trailer. I'd do that even for a 3k trailer.

Mr_Shiftright

I'm not a big fan of towing with FWD either. I agree with texases, a mid-size AWD or RWD is the way to go, with the largest engine available and hopefully, a two-package option that would include a transmission cooler. 5K is, after all, 2.5 tons. That's more than the tow vehicle itself.

If your need for towing is only occasional, then just rent a pickup for that.