New Podders deciding btwn tow vehicles

We're new owners of a 179 in upstate New York, excited to begin full-timing in early summer 2016.  Trying to select a tow vehicle adequate for the long haul, including mountain areas near National Parks of the West.  We desire an SUV rather than pick-up.  Currently looking at Toyota Highlander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango, and Ford Explorer.  We sure would appreciate the benefit of advice by those who've had experience with these vehicles (or others).

I too am in the search mode for a new tow vehicle. I am currently thinking im going with the toyota tacoma. I thought about a highlander, but alot of added expense for less towing . The few highlanders i looked at that were similar in price were 3500 pound capacity. Im looking at 6500 with the tacoma for about the same or less money. It is  TOW vehicle, so i want to be sure i dont have any towing regrets. I almost bought one today, but it got sold out from under me, but thats ok, cause i just found another a year newer thats actually about 500 bucks cheaper. I was really liking the other one with the addition of side rails and rear cover, and the dealer said he will install them at no charge to make up for the one i didnt get. Damn nice of the guy, he didnt even wait for me to complain or anything, he came right out and  said, i'll make sure we get the extras that were on the 2014, and put them on the 2015.

+ 1 for teckntreck longer wheel bases are much better for towing. Which is why trucks are the way to go. The Chevy Tahoe and Suburban with V8s are probably the best SUV's for towing due to their longer wheel bases. However I used my brother in-laws Durango to tow once, V6 with factory install tow package is rated for 6500lbs. Towing a 3500 pound load (trailer+ people+ gear) It did just fine in the mountains. Not much pep to pass on steep grades compared to my TV. but did just fine. With an aftermarket Durango tow package the tow rating drops to 3500 pounds.     

Congrats on your 179 and plans to full-time this coming summer! We started full-timing in March 2015 in a Teardrop trailer...too small! Bought a gently used R-pod 179 in June of this year and we love it! So comfy for full-time traveling and ample storage. And we have added 3 cats to the mix! Check it our blog or get in touch if you have any questions! Best to you!

Anybody an expert on nissan frontier? i looked at some and they tend to be a few thousand lower than tacomas. A little plain to the eye, but it seems they all come with a V6 and 6100 - 6500 tow capacity. I just cant seem to get straight answers on if rated at 6500 pounds means they come equipped with tranny and oil coolers, or higher 130 amp alt. I hear the 130 amp alt isnt a big deal, the electric brakes will still work no problem. Anybody have any insight on this?? The dealership seems kinda useless on this, they repeat the " its rated for 6500 pounds" comment, but no idea if it has a tow package.