It’s a vehicle, it’s a camper— it’s both! That’s the beauty of an RV. RV motorhomes are convenient because you can just get in and go without having to worry about hitching up a travel trailer. But once you arrive at your campsite, packing up and driving a big rig around for sightseeing and errands can be a little cumbersome. This is why many RVers choose to tow their personal vehicles behind their RV.
The easiest way to do this is to simply attach a tow bar to your car and hook it up to the RV. Unfortunately, not every car model can be safely flat towed. If you’re looking for the best car to tow behind an RV, check out this list of 10 vehicles that are right for the job.
Choosing the Right Model
Not all cars are cut out for flat towing, at least not without modifications. Though you might have flat-towed cars with ease in the past, today’s models are equipped with parts that make this difficult. The main culprit is a transmission lubrication pump, which supplies oil to the internal transmission mechanisms. If the car in tow isn’t running, then the pump isn’t running. This can result in expensive damage to your transmission system and render your car inoperable.
There are ways around this, such as installing your own lube pump. However, these modifications can be tricky and pricey. Luckily, some vehicle manufacturers have built cars that can be flat-towed on four wheels without having to go through this hassle. It’ll give you less stress and more time for adventuring on your RV trip!
Best RV Tow Cars for 2020
Some cars are designed to tow, others are designed to be towed. If you’re searching for the best RV tow car, be sure to consider these ten 2020 vehicle models have been approved for flat towing when following manufacturers’ procedures.
1. Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Have a big crew to haul around? The Chevy Tahoe is a 3-row, 8 seat full-sized SUV perfect for toting everyone plus gear.
Gas Mileage: 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: None
Base curb weight: 5,602 lbs.
2. Ford Escape Hybrid
Wanting a smaller, more eco-friendly ride? Check out the Ford Escape Hybrid. This two-row crossover can seat five and still give you some storage space in the back.
Gas Mileage: 44 mpg city, 37 highway
Towing speed limit: 70mph
Base curb weight: 3,554 lbs
3. Ford F-150 4WD
If you prefer driving a pickup truck, the Ford F-150 four-wheel drive is a great option. Both the classic F-150 4WD and F-150 Raptor 4WD are tow-friendly.
Gas Mileage: 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: None
Base curb weight: 4,343 lbs.
4. Dodge Durango AWD
The Dodge Durango AWD is another SUV option with third-row seating if you plan on toting around more than five people.
Gas Mileage: 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: None
Base curb weight: 4,814 lbs.
5. GMC Sierra 1500 4WD
The Sierra 1500 is another great truck option. The biggest downside to this vehicle is the dismal fuel economy.
Gas Mileage: 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: None
Base curb weight: 4,730 lbs.
6. Honda Accord Sport
Though there aren’t many, some sedans can be towed behind an RV. These are great if you plan on keeping to paved roads and don’t need a high-clearance vehicle with four-wheel drive capabilities. Keep in mind that only Accords with manual transmissions are suitable for flat-towing.
Gas Mileage: 26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: 65 mph
Base curb weight: 3,155 lbs.
7. Honda Fit
The Honda Fit is the lightest model on the list, making it perfect for RVs with a smaller towing capacity. Like the Accord Sport, Honda recommends that only manual transmission Fits be flat-towed.
Gas Mileage: 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: 65 mph
Base curb weight: 2,522 lbs.
8. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a classic tow-behind vehicle. Jeep has made these easy to haul for years, making it a favorite of RVers. Thanks to its rugged terrain capabilities, Jeep Wranglers are great for those looking to get off the beaten track.
Gas Mileage: 22 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: None
Base curb weight: 3,948 lbs.
9. Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
Drive around in luxury with the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The great gas mileage makes this car perfect if you plan on traveling far from camp for day trips and sightseeing.
Gas Mileage: 42 mpg city, 39 mpg highways
Towing speed limit: 70 mph
Base curb weight: 3,855 lbs.
10. Nissan Versa S
With an MSRP starting at $14,730, the Nissan Versa S is one of the least expensive cars on the list, making it great for those wanting to purchase their new car on a budget.
Gas Mileage: 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway
Towing speed limit: None.
Base curb weight: 2,599 lbs.
Keep in mind that just because a certain year model is towable does NOT mean that every year model of that vehicle is. Manufacturers make changes year to year that can change this. When buying a car, be sure to ask about towing, and always refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to properly tow.
For a complete list of dinghy towable vehicles, download MotorHome Magazine’s yearly Dinghy Towing Guide.
Flat Tow vs. Tow Dolly
If your car is not suitable for flat towing, consider investing in a tow dolly. Tow dollies are small, two-wheeled trailers that can tow your car and be pulled behind an RV. Tow dollies allow you to tow your car with the two front wheels off the ground. This is great for front-wheel drive vehicles and typically does not require any sort of modification or procedures. Although it does require more work and you will have to make room at home and the campsite for the dolly, it’s a viable option.
Hit the Road
Towing your car behind your motorhome gives you the advantages that come with tow-behinds and traditional motorhome travel. Again, always check with your manufacturer and owner’s manual before towing a vehicle for specific instructions. Buckle up and have fun!
