Towing over 2200lbs

[sadcaper]

Hi there-

We are looking for a new car/SUV for my wife, and need something that gets decent gas mileage, roomier than her Jetta and can pull a boat (~4000 lbs) occassionally.

The Tiguan does the first two things fairly well, but the towing is a concern. I know it's rated at 2200 lbs in the states, but overseas it's rated as high as 5000 lbs.

I don't think the chassis is any different, but merely specs in the US are different than Europe. So I'm thinking the Tiguan has the ability to tow 4000 lbs, but due to US legal restrictions or whatever, they only rate it at 2200 lbs.

Some more facts...we only tow the boat on occassion to put in and out of water. Maybe take a 3 hour trip with it once per year.

So what do you all think about the Tiguan fitting into our plans? Is it just asking too much to tow that weight?

Also, if we do go this route, would we be better off putting on a Class III hitch aftermarket instead of going with the VW hitch from the factory?

Sorry so long, and thanks!

[kennix]

I'm a firm believer in class three hitches. As far as the boat, because boats are aerodynamic, normally you can tow more. case in point, honda pilot. Honda suggested the SUV could tow more if the towed appliance was a boat.

[NZTIGUAN]

The factory hitch is capable of taking the max load so should be as good as any after-market one. I believe the issue of towing weight actually has a lot to do with the engine and transmission options on the vehicle as well as "national" requirements. Certainly in NZ the diesels get a higher rating. Now I realise that a diesel is a better tow car because of its increased torque BUT I don't think that's the actual reason behind the difference. It's something to do with the cars ability to "stop" with a load up as well, so all sorts of things come into the picture. Realise this doesn't help you much but I guess I'm saying that it isn't the vehicles ability to PULL THE WEIGHT that's at issue, it's a number of factors.

Cheers