For RV enthusiasts, the freedom of the open road is just the beginning. Once you arrive at your destination, having a separate vehicle unlocks a world of exploration and convenience. Flat towing, or four-down towing, is a popular method for bringing a car along for the ride. It’s easy to see why: tow bars are simple to connect and disconnect, and the equipment is relatively compact. But with so many vehicles on the market, finding the best vehicle to tow behind your RV can feel overwhelming.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the choices and select the perfect towable vehicle to complement your RV lifestyle. We’ll cover everything from understanding flat towing and vehicle compatibility to exploring the top vehicle types and essential towing tips.
Understanding Flat Towing: The Basics
Flat towing, often called “dinghy towing” or “four-down towing,” involves towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground directly behind your RV. The towed vehicle is connected to the RV using a tow bar, and it essentially follows along as you drive. This method is favored for its simplicity and ease of use compared to using trailers or tow dollies.
Why Choose Flat Towing?
- Convenience: Hooking up and disconnecting a flat tow setup is generally quicker and easier than dealing with trailers or dollies.
- Storage: Tow bars and related equipment take up minimal storage space, both at home and at your campsite.
- Maneuverability: Without a trailer, your RV remains more maneuverable, especially in tight spaces.
- Cost-Effective (in the long run): While there’s an initial investment in towing equipment, you avoid the ongoing costs and storage hassles associated with trailers.
Key Considerations: Is Your Vehicle Flat Towable?
Before you get too far down the road, the most crucial question is: can your car be flat towed? Unfortunately, not all vehicles are created equal when it comes to four-down towing. Attempting to flat tow a vehicle that isn’t designed for it can lead to severe transmission damage – a repair you definitely want to avoid.
Manual vs. Automatic Transmissions: The Critical Difference
Historically, vehicles with manual transmissions have been more readily flat towable. Many front-wheel-drive manual transmission cars can be flat towed without modifications. Similarly, rear-wheel-drive manual transmission vehicles or four-wheel-drive vehicles with a manual transfer case (that can be shifted into neutral) are often suitable for flat towing.
However, the automotive landscape has shifted. Automatic transmissions and Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are now far more common. CVTs, in particular, are almost never flat towable due to the risk of transmission damage when the driveshaft is turning while the engine is off.
Modern automatic transmissions can also be problematic. Many are not designed to be towed with all four wheels down, as internal components may not receive proper lubrication when the engine isn’t running.
The Owner’s Manual is Your Best Friend: The definitive answer to whether your vehicle can be flat towed lies within your owner’s manual. Manufacturers explicitly state in the “towing” or “recreational towing” section whether a specific model and year can be flat towed. Always consult your manual first!
Modifications for Flat Towing: Proceed with Caution
If your dream tow vehicle isn’t factory-approved for flat towing, you might consider aftermarket modifications. While there are add-ons that can potentially make some automatic transmission vehicles flat towable, this path comes with significant caveats:
- Cost and Complexity: Modifications can be expensive, complex to install, and require ongoing maintenance.
- Warranty Concerns: Improperly installed or used modifications can damage your vehicle’s engine or drivetrain, potentially voiding your warranty.
- Reliability: Aftermarket solutions may not be as reliable as factory-approved towing.
Recommendation: If you’re vehicle shopping with flat towing in mind, prioritize vehicles that are manufacturer-approved for four-down towing right from the start. If you’re considering modifications, consult with a reputable professional experienced in RV towing setups.
Top Vehicle Types for Flat Towing: Finding Your Perfect Match
Choosing the best vehicle to tow behind your RV isn’t just about towability; it’s also about finding a vehicle that suits your needs and lifestyle once you’ve parked your RV. Let’s explore some popular vehicle types for flat towing:
Compact Cars: Lightweight and Economical
Alt text: A blue Ford Focus being flat towed behind a motorhome, illustrating compact car towing.
Pros:
- Lightweight: Less strain on your RV and better fuel economy.
- Fuel-Efficient: Economical for running errands and exploring around your campsite.
- Affordable: Often the most budget-friendly option for a towable vehicle.
- Easy to Maneuver: Great for navigating city streets and parking in crowded areas.
Cons:
- Limited Space: May not be ideal for families or those needing significant cargo room.
- Less Capable in Rough Terrain: Not designed for off-road adventures.
Examples (Always confirm specific year and model in owner’s manual):
- Chevrolet Sonic
- Ford Fiesta
- Ford Focus
- Mini Cooper
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, or those prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of parking.
SUVs: Versatility and Passenger Space
Alt text: A Jeep Grand Cherokee, a popular SUV choice for flat towing, pictured in a scenic outdoor setting.
Pros:
- Spacious: Ample room for passengers and cargo, ideal for families or those needing to haul gear.
- Comfortable Ride: Generally offer a smoother ride than compact cars.
- Available in 4×4/AWD: Some SUVs offer off-road capabilities for adventurous RVers.
Cons:
- Heavier: More weight to tow, potentially impacting RV fuel economy and handling.
- Less Fuel-Efficient than Cars: Higher fuel consumption when driving around.
- Can be more expensive than cars.
Examples (Always confirm specific year and model in owner’s manual):
- Buick Enclave
- Buick Envision
- Cadillac SRX
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Dodge Durango AWD
- Ford Explorer
- GMC Acadia
- GMC Terrain
- Honda CR-V
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 4×4
- Lincoln MKX
Best for: Families, travelers needing cargo space, those wanting a balance of comfort and capability.
Trucks: Cargo Capacity and Ruggedness
Pros:
- Maximum Cargo Space: Truck beds offer unparalleled cargo-carrying capacity for gear, supplies, and outdoor equipment.
- 4×4 Capability: Many trucks are available with four-wheel drive for off-road adventures.
- Versatile: Can be used for work, play, and everything in between.
Cons:
- Heaviest Option: Significant weight to tow, potentially impacting RV performance.
- Largest and Least Fuel-Efficient: Lower fuel economy than cars and SUVs.
- Can be less maneuverable in tight spaces.
- May require more robust towing equipment.
Examples (Always confirm specific year and model in owner’s manual):
- Chevrolet Colorado 4X4
- Chevrolet Silverado 4X4
- Chevrolet Tahoe 4×4
- Ford Expedition 4X4
- Ford F-150 4X4
- GMC Canyon 4X4
- GMC Sierra 4X4
- Ram 1500 4×4
Best for: RVers who need to haul large items, frequent off-road adventurers, those who prioritize cargo capacity above all else.
4x4s: Adventure-Ready Tow Vehicles
Pros:
- Off-Road Prowess: Designed for tackling challenging terrain and reaching remote destinations.
- Durable and Rugged: Built to withstand tough conditions.
- Often Flat Towable: Many 4×4 models, particularly Jeeps, are designed for easy flat towing.
- Fun and Versatile: Great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cons:
- Can be Less Fuel-Efficient: Especially true for older, more rugged models.
- Ride Comfort Can Vary: Some 4x4s prioritize off-road capability over on-road comfort.
- May be Pricier: Especially for popular models like Jeep Wranglers.
Examples (Always confirm specific year and model in owner’s manual):
- Jeep Cherokee 4×4
- Jeep Wrangler JK 4×4
- Jeep Wrangler JL 4×4
- Jeep Wrangler TJ 4X4
- Lincoln Navigator 4×4
Best for: Outdoor adventurers, off-road enthusiasts, those who want a fun and capable vehicle for exploring beyond paved roads. The Jeep Wrangler, in particular, is a very popular and iconic choice for flat towing and off-roading.
Essential Equipment and Features for Flat Towing
Beyond choosing the right vehicle, you’ll need specific equipment to ensure safe and successful flat towing:
- Tow Bar: Connects your RV to your towed vehicle. Choose a tow bar with the appropriate weight rating for your vehicle. Blue Ox and other reputable brands offer a range of tow bars to suit different needs.
- Base Plate: Attaches to your towed vehicle’s frame and provides connection points for the tow bar. Vehicle-specific base plates are essential for a secure and proper connection.
- Safety Cables: Secondary safety connection between the RV and towed vehicle in case of tow bar failure.
- Lighting and Electrical Wiring: Ensures your towed vehicle’s brake lights, turn signals, and running lights function in sync with your RV.
- Auxiliary Braking System: Crucially important and often legally required. A tow braking system applies the brakes in your towed vehicle when you brake your RV, significantly improving stopping distance and safety. Systems like the Patriot Brake are highly recommended.
Alt text: The Patriot Brake flat tow braking system installed in a towed vehicle, highlighting its compact design and ease of integration.
Vehicles to Avoid for Flat Towing
While the list of towable vehicles is substantial, there are certain types of vehicles that are generally not suitable for flat towing:
- Vehicles with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs): CVTs are almost always off-limits for flat towing due to the risk of transmission damage.
- Many All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Vehicles: Some AWD systems cannot be disengaged for towing, leading to potential damage. Always check the owner’s manual.
- Vehicles Not Listed in the Owner’s Manual: If your owner’s manual doesn’t explicitly state that your vehicle is flat towable, it’s best to assume it isn’t, unless you pursue professional modifications with expert guidance.
Pro Tips for Safe and Trouble-Free Flat Towing
- Always Consult Your Owner’s Manual: This is the golden rule! Your owner’s manual provides specific instructions and requirements for flat towing your vehicle.
- Perform Pre-Trip Checks: Before each trip, double-check all connections – tow bar, base plate, safety cables, lighting, and braking system.
- Never Back Up with the Towed Vehicle Attached: Backing up with a tow bar connected can cause serious damage to the tow bar, RV, and towed vehicle. Disconnect before backing up.
- Practice in a Safe Area: Before hitting the open road, practice hooking up, disconnecting, and maneuvering your RV with the towed vehicle in a large, empty parking lot.
- Consider a Towing Checklist: Create a checklist to ensure you don’t miss any crucial steps in the hookup or disconnection process.
- Regularly Inspect Your Equipment: Inspect your tow bar, base plate, safety cables, and braking system for wear and tear.
Finding Your Best Flat Tow Vehicle: It’s All About Your Needs
Choosing the best vehicle to tow behind your RV is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs, budget, and travel style. Consider these questions as you make your choice:
- What will you primarily use the towed vehicle for? (Errands, sightseeing, off-roading, family trips?)
- How much passenger and cargo space do you need?
- What is your budget for purchasing and maintaining the towed vehicle?
- Do you plan on doing any off-road driving?
- What is your RV’s towing capacity? (Ensure the towed vehicle’s weight is within your RV’s limits.)
By carefully considering these factors and consulting your owner’s manuals, you can confidently choose the best vehicle to tow behind your RV and enjoy the added freedom and flexibility it brings to your RV adventures. Happy towing!
For top-rated tow bars and towing equipment, visit Blue Ox.
