Posted 2014-01-24 6:57 PM (#157145) Subject: Preferred SUV for hauling a small two horse bumper pull trailer.
New User
Posts: 2
Location: Rockaway Beach, OR
Hello! I am in search of my first SUV, which will be a daily commuter and occasional tow vehicle to a small, older 2 horse bumper pull trailer and one small (900lb) horse & equipment. Based on our current needs we are not interested in a truck. Based on your experience, what has been your favorite type of SUV for hauling? Our budget is right around $15,000, not including additional tow equipment like a break controller or anti-sway bars. Safety is #1! Will need to haul and stop over mountains, long distances etc. I am interested in the Toyota Sequoia & Ford Expedition due to high Consumer Reports ratings on reliability and tow capability. Does anyone have any experience hauling with one of these vehicles or a similar vehicle in this price range? If so what added equipment has been helpful for you?Thanks so much!
Posted 2014-01-24 8:55 PM (#157153 - in reply to #157145) Subject: RE: Preferred SUV for hauling a small two horse bumper pull trailer.
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
We hauled a 3H BP trailer for several years with an Expedition. It did well, and was about the smallest SUV we would use for towing a horse trailer. A friend of ours towed a bit with a Land Rover and last year switched to a 150 Ford. The available HP isn't the issue, rather the shorter wheel bases aren't as stable when towing as the longer ones. Many smaller SUV utilise unibody construction with no frames. In my estimation, they are not suitable for towing heavy trailers, and their lower towing weight restrictions indicate their lighter construction.
If you were to find an Expedition or a Suburban, they make excellent towing vehicles. Both are available with various motors, and have a large body in which to carry what ever you wish. They are comfortable long distance cruisers, and because they are built upon truck chassis and running gear, they are rugged and reliable.
Preferred SUV for hauling a small two horse bumper pull trailer.
