Want tow vehicle recommendation for 179

Thanks, Vann. Those are good reasons to keep SUVs on our research list - and I prefer their looks and comfort, too. Fortunately, we're not in a rush. Lots to look at and think about.

Thanks to each of you - you gave me lots of good info. I got the message that we need at least 5000 lb capacity and we'd be foolish to try to push a TV to the top end of its capacity (push being the operative word in the mountains ).

I would absolutely not call a Honda Pilot or a Ford Flex "overkill."  While they both have ample room for three people, I would consider them both just on the edge of being comfortable towing with them. 

Point of reference:  Our '04 Dodge Durango has a 4.7 liter V-8.  It did very well towing our former popup.  But after a 3,500 mile western road trip this summer, I have come to the realization that it is absolutely underpowered for towing our R-pod.  Long uphill grades were painful.  The engine was frequently threatening to overheat.  I was not comfortable at all towing with it. 

I assume you live in Washington State (given your screen name), and you state that you plan to visit National Parks.  Therefore, it seems safe to say that you'll be towing up some fairly serious grades.  My advice is to look for something that has at least 300 h.p. and 300 ft. lbs. torque.  If you don't want a pickup, then you will likely end up having to get an SUV that has more interior room than you think you need.  However, I have never, ever heard of anyone saying, "I wish we hadn't gotten a tow vehicle with that much power," or, for that matter, "I wish we hadn't gotten a tow vehicle that was so roomy." 

Some models to consider would include the new Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon, Ford Expedition, or Jeep Grand Cherokee.  I'm sure there are many others that could do the job, too, and I'm sure others will chime in with their recommendations.  But no matter what anyone says, I truly believe that you don't want to cut it close on the towing capability margin. 

We recently traded up from a 2005 Chev. Tahoe with a big V8 and a towing capacity of 6,800 lbs  to a Nissan Pathfinder with a V6 and a towing cap. of 5,000 lbs.  Only difference is of course pulling long hills.  Wish I had the V8 but the 6 is adequate.  We have a 171 and I had weighed it with all our stuff, and only about 8 gals. of water.  Came in about 2.800 lbs.  Personally, I would not buy anything with less than a 5K towing capacity.  Others have purchased a T/V with a 3, 500 towing capacity  and find they usually want to upgrade to a larger tow vehicle.   Certainly with a lower towing capacity, mountains are a challenge.  Depends on where you want to go. 

Don't buy a wimpy tow vehicle.

Just don't do it.

Unless, you anticipate not having enough stress during your planned travels.

I have a 325 horsepower V8. There are times I wish I had more power.