We are in the market for a new tow vehicle that meets the following criteria: 1) it can fit in our garage, and 2) it has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
We are looking at a nearly new Santa Fe XL which meets the above criteria but first would like to hear from members who are towing with this vehicle and get their feedback.
Trailer: 2009 Escape 17B 2020 Toyota Highlander XLE
Posts: 17,136
My buddy picks up his new Highlander this evening. He traded in his '09 Santa Fe.
He drove and researched Durango, Toureg, the Santa Fe XL, Honda Pilot and Highlander and concluded that the Toyota gave the best value and reliability. Trade value of the Santa Fe at Toyota was low, and even lower at his Hyundai dealer, so keep that in mind. Toyota has high trade values.
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What happens to the hole when the cheese is gone?
- Bertolt Brecht
We have towed our Escape 17 for two months around Alaska with our Hyundai with no problems. We have done shorter trips also. We bought it because it is a little lower than the Toyota so it is easier to put Kayaks onto the roof. It was also less expensive. Toyota is rated highly by consumers, but after a year we are still happy with our choice.
At 22,000 towing our 15 no problems. Our 2012 has performed like a champ. Could do a 17 but if you are looking larger you need a bigger tow. Averaged 17.7 mpg. We are changing tow only because we want to carry more stuff. The Santa Fe is still one of the best buys out there especially with new tow capacity. You didn't indicate if you are getting an Escape but would handle your Casita no problem.
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Tim and Julie
2013 Escape 15B
2014 Nissan Frontier, Previous 2012 Santa Fe
Thanks for your feedback comments on the Santa Fe. The Toyota Highlander was the other tow vehicle we have been considering and now it is moving higher on the list.
We are towing a 17 ft. Casita and are constantly looking to purchase a gently used 19 ft. Escape.
We recently switched from a 2006 Tundra to a 2015 Highlander for pulling our 19'. So far I really like the way the Highlander feels. We use a Anderson Hitch on both. The Highlander does have to have a charge line and brake line installed along with a brake controller but I found step by step instruction on etrailer.com and did it myself. If you go with a Highlander find one that has the factory tow package because the hitch is integrated into the bumper (which makes it higher then a aftermarket) and it already has the 4 pin wiring plug for lights.
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