T@B 400 TV

Binz

We presently own a T@B 2015 model, without a toilet. Our choice for more storage. With changes in the world we are looking at the T@B 400 which provides the bathroom facilities and plenty of storage etc. Our problem is, we have a 2012 V6 Hyundai Santa Fe which is more than capable of pulling our T@B, but not the 400. Any advice on a TV, not including a truck?  We need something that can make it across the Rockies and back, not just flat towing. Thanks in advance. 

ontheroad

We have a friend who tows their 400 with the Nissan Frontier..and they're very happy with it.. don't think they've towed out of Ontario yet...

ChrisFix

@Binz
Larger unibody SUVs like the Kia Telluride/Hyundai Palisade or VW Atlas will tow 5,000lbs...but have more limited tongue weight than mid-size pickups. Depending on which year T@B 400 you're looking at, tongue weights come in from about 375lbs up to close to 500...and that is the number you need to concern yourself with when shopping for a new TV. 
Ford Explorer would work. As would Chevy Traverse, or Dodge Durango, or Honda Pilot.
I'm pulling a 2021 400 with a 2020 Honda Ridgeline (same drivetrain as Pilot, but longer wheelbase) and think it's a perfect match...
Off the top of my head the Jeep Grand Cherokee can be configured to tow 6,200 IIRC...and is a very comfortable daily driver.
But TLDR...you need a TV with a minimum of 5,000 towing capacity...but even then, verify the tongue weight capacity of the model your looking at.

Binz

Many thanks ChrisFix! That’s a really thoughtful and useful response! 

Horigan

There are a couple of ways to approach this.  One is a normal aspirated V6, like in the Pilot, Highlander, etc with a 5000lb/500lb towing capacity.  This will work pretty good, but you will be slow on mountain passes, have an MPG in the low teens,  and working the motor to its maximum capacity.  This is what I have and just finished a long trip through Idaho, Utah, Colorado and the Highlander struggled a bit on high altitude passes.  Another option is pickup truck, like a Ford F150, or Explorer, with the 3.5L turbo Ecoboost engine, that I've been drooling over, and have more capability on mountain passes.  

There are several recent threads on this subject.

dlb

There are options like an Audi Q5/SQ5 or BMW X3 that have the towing capacity and turbo motors with more power than their towing capacity implies.  If you want to look at reducing gas the initial cost think about certified pre owned.  These are factory spec vehicles with some remaining warranty at significant price reductions.