best small car for towing behind rv

As the leaves start to turn and travel plans wind down for winter, I’ve found that choosing the right small car to tow behind your RV becomes super important. I’ve tested several tow bars and small vehicles myself, and the key is knowing what offers sturdy, adjustable, and dependable performance. Trust me, a good tow setup makes all the difference in your road trip experience—less wobbling, more control, and smooth handling when you’re on the move.

From my hands-on trials, the CURT 19745 RV Tow Bar, 5,000 lbs, 2-Inch Coupler stood out. Its heavy-duty frame, easy adjustability, and corrosion-resistant finish made towing multiple small vehicles effortless—plus, it fits a wide range of cars with secure, versatile connections. After comparing other options, this tow bar combines strength, compatibility, and value that truly stands out, making it my top pick for hassle-free dinghy towing.

Top Recommendation: CURT 19745 RV Tow Bar, 5,000 lbs, 2-Inch Coupler

Why We Recommend It: This tow bar’s robust 5,000 lb capacity and high adjustability (from 26 to 41 inches) ensure it fits most small vehicles securely. Its corrosion-resistant black powder coat adds longevity, and the universal 2-inch trailer coupler simplifies connections. Unlike simpler or cheaper options, the durability and adjustable width make it suitable for various vehicles, giving peace of mind during long trips.

Best small car for towing behind rv: Our Top 5 Picks

• CURT 19745 RV Tow Bar, 5,000 lbs, 2-Inch Coupler – Best Value
• Toy Camper RV Trailer & Supercar Diecast Set for Kids 3-6 – Best Premium Option
• Bonsicoky Tractor Towing Hitch Pin & Clip 1/2 x 3-5/8 Inch – Best Towing Accessory for Small Vehicles
• 2 Doors Wrangler Rubicon SUV Model Car Trailer Towing Toy – Best Small Car for Flat Towing Behind RV
• Universal Towing Mirror Extenders, 2 Pack – Best Towing Mirror Extension for RV Towing

What Are the Key Criteria for Choosing a Small Car for Towing Behind an RV?

When selecting the best small car for towing behind an RV, several key criteria should be considered to ensure compatibility and performance.

• Towing Capacity: The car must have a towing capacity that matches or exceeds the weight of the items being towed. This includes not only the weight of the car itself but also any additional cargo that may be loaded inside it, ensuring safety and compliance with RV towing guidelines.
• Transmission Type: Automatic and manual transmissions can affect towing capabilities. Many RV owners prefer vehicles with manual transmissions for towing due to their ability to handle stress better, while some automatics come with a tow/haul mode that optimizes performance during towing.
• Weight and Size: A small car should be lightweight and compact for easier towing and better fuel efficiency. The car’s dimensions should also allow for easy maneuverability when hitched to the RV, preventing any handling issues while driving.
• Drivetrain Configuration: Front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations have different towing characteristics. FWD vehicles are often lighter and easier to tow, while AWD vehicles provide better traction in diverse road conditions, which can be beneficial when towing.
• Ease of Towing: Look for features that facilitate towing, such as a flat towing capability (where the car can be towed with all four wheels on the ground) and a compatible tow bar or dolly setup. This ensures that the vehicle can be easily hooked up and disconnected from the RV without complications.
• Fuel Efficiency: Fuel consumption while towing can significantly impact travel costs. Selecting a small car that offers good fuel efficiency, even when towed, can lead to savings in the long run, making road trips more economical.
• Reliability and Maintenance: Choose a brand and model known for its reliability and low maintenance costs. A dependable vehicle reduces the risk of breakdowns during trips, providing peace of mind while traveling.

How Does Vehicle Weight Influence Towing Capacity?

Curb weight is critical as it establishes the baseline for how much additional weight can be towed. A lighter vehicle generally has a lower towing capacity, thus making it essential to match the vehicle’s weight with the trailer’s requirements.

Tongue weight is important for maintaining proper balance when towing, as too much or too little can lead to swaying or instability. Typically, the ideal tongue weight is about 10-15% of the total trailer weight to ensure safe towing.

Engine power and torque are fundamental for effective towing, as they determine how well a vehicle can pull a trailer, especially on inclines or during acceleration. A car with higher torque at lower RPMs is generally better suited for towing.

Lastly, the chassis and suspension design must be robust enough to handle the stresses of towing, which includes the ability to absorb shocks and maintain control. Vehicles designed with towing in mind will often feature reinforced frames and upgraded suspension components to enhance performance and safety.

What Are the Important Differences Between All-Wheel Drive and Front-Wheel Drive for Towing?

Aspect	All-Wheel Drive	Front-Wheel Drive
Traction	Provides better traction on slippery surfaces, beneficial for towing in various weather conditions.	Less traction than AWD, can struggle in adverse weather when towing heavy loads.
Fuel Efficiency	Generally less fuel-efficient due to additional drivetrain components.	More fuel-efficient, making it a better choice for lighter towing tasks.
Handling	Improved handling in off-road or challenging conditions while towing.	Handles well on paved roads but may struggle off-road when towing.
Towing Capacity	Often has a higher towing capacity due to stronger drivetrain components.	Typically has a lower towing capacity, suitable for smaller trailers.
Examples	Subaru Outback, Audi Q5, and Honda CR-V.	Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Ford Focus.
Cost Implications	Generally more expensive due to complex drivetrain and components.	Less expensive, making it more budget-friendly for towing lighter loads.
Maintenance Considerations	Higher maintenance costs due to more components that can wear out.	Lower maintenance costs, typically simpler drivetrain with fewer components.

Which Small Cars Are Best Suited for Towing Behind an RV?

The best small cars suited for towing behind an RV are typically lightweight, have a sturdy design, and are compatible with flat towing. Here are some top options:

• Honda CR-V: Known for its reliability and spacious interior, the Honda CR-V is also capable of being towed flat with the right equipment. Its all-wheel-drive system provides good traction, making it easier to handle varied terrains while being towed.
• Jeep Wrangler: The Jeep Wrangler is a popular choice for RV owners due to its off-road capabilities and robust build. It is designed for flat towing, with a transfer case that allows for easy switching between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, ensuring versatility during travel.
• Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 combines fuel efficiency with a strong towing capacity, making it an ideal small car for RV towing. It is equipped with features that enhance its towing capabilities and offers a comfortable ride both while being towed and on the road.
• Ford Escape: The Ford Escape is another excellent option, offering a good balance of power and efficiency. Its towing package allows for flat towing, and its compact size makes it easy to maneuver when attached to an RV.
• Subaru Crosstrek: The Subaru Crosstrek features all-wheel drive and is known for its ruggedness, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. It can be flat towed with minimal modifications, allowing RV owners to enjoy their adventures without sacrificing convenience.

What Popular Models Offer Reliable Towing Capability?

When considering the best small cars for towing behind an RV, several models stand out for their reliability and towing capacity.

• Honda CR-V: The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV known for its strong reliability and good towing capacity, typically around 1,500 pounds. Its all-wheel-drive option enhances stability while towing, making it a popular choice for RV enthusiasts who need a versatile vehicle for both towing and daily driving.
• Jeep Cherokee: The Jeep Cherokee offers a towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it one of the most capable small SUVs for towing. Its rugged build and off-road capabilities also provide excellent handling on various terrains, enhancing its appeal for adventurous RV owners.
• Ford Escape: The Ford Escape combines a comfortable ride with a respectable towing capacity of around 2,000 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the engine option. It features advanced safety technologies and spacious interiors, making it a practical choice for families who also want towing functionality.
• Kia Sportage: The Kia Sportage is another compact SUV that can tow up to 2,000 pounds, offering a balance of convenience and capability. It comes with a robust warranty and a range of modern tech features, which further solidifies its position as a reliable towing option for small car enthusiasts.
• Subaru Crosstrek: The Subaru Crosstrek is known for its all-wheel-drive system and has a towing capacity of around 1,500 pounds. Its compact size and excellent fuel efficiency make it an ideal candidate for being towed behind an RV, while also providing a rugged vehicle for exploring off the beaten path.

What Advantages Do These Recommended Models Provide for RV Owners?

The best small cars for towing behind RVs offer a range of advantages to enhance the travel experience for RV owners.

• Fuel Efficiency: Many small cars are designed with fuel efficiency in mind, allowing RV owners to minimize fuel costs during their travels. This is particularly beneficial when towing, as it helps reduce the overall fuel consumption of the combined vehicle setup.
• Compact Size: The smaller dimensions of these cars make them easier to maneuver and park, especially in tight spaces or crowded campgrounds. Their compact nature also means they typically weigh less, which is advantageous for towing capacity and handling.
• Affordability: Generally, small cars come with a lower price tag compared to larger vehicles, making them a cost-effective option for RV owners looking for a towing solution. This affordability extends not only to the purchase price but also to maintenance and insurance costs.
• Versatility: Small cars can serve multiple purposes, functioning as a daily driver when the RV is parked, thus eliminating the need for a separate vehicle. This versatility allows RV owners to explore their destinations with ease without the hassle of driving the larger RV around.
• Ease of Towing: Many recommended small cars are specifically designed to be flat-towed, which simplifies the towing process. Features like automatic transmissions and lightweight construction contribute to a smoother towing experience, making setup and breakdown quicker and more efficient.
• Safety Features: Modern small cars come equipped with advanced safety features such as stability control and anti-lock brakes, enhancing the security of both the car and the RV while traveling. These features provide peace of mind for RV owners, especially during long trips.

What Limitations Should You Consider When Towing a Small Car?

When considering towing a small car behind an RV, several limitations must be taken into account:

• Weight Capacity: Each RV has a maximum towing capacity that must not be exceeded.
• Towing Method: The method of towing (flat towing vs. trailer towing) can significantly affect the small car’s compatibility.
• Transmission Type: The type of transmission in the small car can dictate whether it can be towed safely without damage.
• Braking System: The small car’s braking system needs to be compatible with the RV’s braking system for safe towing.
• Suspension and Ground Clearance: The car’s suspension and ground clearance can impact its performance while being towed.
• Legal Restrictions: Some states have specific legal requirements regarding towing vehicles that must be adhered to.

Weight Capacity: Each RV is designed to tow a specific weight, which includes the weight of the car and any additional cargo. Exceeding this limit can lead to safety issues and potential damage to the RV’s drivetrain.

Towing Method: Determining whether to flat tow (all four wheels on the ground) or to use a trailer affects the car’s compatibility. Not all small cars can be flat towed, so checking the owner’s manual for towing instructions is essential.

Transmission Type: Automatic cars may require special procedures to be towed without damaging the transmission, while manual transmissions often have more flexibility. Understanding the car’s transmission type will help in selecting a suitable vehicle for towing.

Braking System: The small car should ideally have a supplemental braking system if it is heavier than a certain weight to ensure safety while towing. This system helps the RV maintain control and stability on the road.

Suspension and Ground Clearance: A car with low ground clearance or a soft suspension may struggle when being towed, leading to potential damage. It’s important to choose a car that can handle the stresses of being towed without compromising its integrity.

Legal Restrictions: Different states may have varying laws regarding the towing of vehicles, including required equipment and safety measures. Familiarizing yourself with these laws is crucial to avoid fines and ensure safe towing practices.

What Are the Key Weight Restrictions for Towing?

The key weight restrictions for towing a vehicle behind an RV include the following factors:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum weight that a vehicle is rated to safely carry, including its own weight and any cargo or passengers. When towing, it’s crucial to ensure that the combined weight of the RV and the towed vehicle does not exceed the RV’s GVWR, as exceeding this limit can lead to safety issues and legal penalties.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The GCWR is the maximum weight of the RV and the towed vehicle combined. It is important to check the RV’s specifications to determine its GCWR; if the total weight of both vehicles surpasses this rating, it can affect braking, handling, and overall performance, potentially leading to dangerous driving conditions.
• Tongue Weight: This refers to the downward force exerted on the hitch by the trailer or towed vehicle. Typically, tongue weight should be between 10-15% of the total weight of the towed vehicle; if it’s too heavy or too light, it can cause instability while driving, leading to swaying or loss of control.
• Payload Capacity: This is the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely carry in addition to its own weight, including passengers and cargo. When towing, you must consider how much of this capacity is consumed by the towed vehicle and any other items inside the RV, ensuring that you do not exceed the payload limits.
• Brake Requirements: Most states require that any towed vehicle over a certain weight must have its own braking system. It’s essential to check state laws and ensure that the towed vehicle is equipped with the necessary brakes to meet legal standards and ensure safe towing practices.

How Can Towing Impact Your RV’s Fuel Efficiency?

Towing can significantly affect your RV’s fuel efficiency, especially depending on the vehicle used for towing.

• Towing Weight: The weight of the car being towed directly impacts fuel efficiency; heavier vehicles require more power to pull, leading to increased fuel consumption.
• Aerodynamics: The shape and design of both the RV and the towed vehicle can create additional drag, which may reduce fuel efficiency during travel.
• Towing Equipment: The type of towing equipment, such as hitches and towing bars, can influence how efficiently the RV pulls the car; poorly designed equipment may add unnecessary resistance.
• Driving Habits: The way you drive while towing can affect fuel efficiency; aggressive acceleration and high speeds can lead to greater fuel consumption compared to steady driving.
• Tire Pressure: Proper tire inflation on both the RV and the towed vehicle is essential; under-inflated tires can increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel efficiency.
• Engine Load: Towing places an additional load on the RV’s engine, which can lead to decreased fuel economy if the engine is not designed for towing or if it is operating near its maximum capacity.

What Equipment Is Necessary for Towing a Small Car?

To safely tow a small car behind an RV, the following equipment is necessary:

• Tow Bar: A tow bar connects the RV to the small car, allowing it to be towed securely. It must be compatible with the car’s weight and towing capacity, and typically comes with adjustable arms for easy attachment and detachment.
• Tow Braking System: This system ensures that the towed vehicle can brake effectively when the RV slows down or stops. There are two main types: proportional systems, which apply brakes in proportion to the RV’s braking, and non-proportional systems that activate at a set level regardless of RV speed.
• Safety Cables: Safety cables are crucial for added security, as they provide a backup in case the tow bar fails. These cables should be rated for the weight of the towed vehicle and are typically crossed under the tow bar to keep the car connected even if it becomes detached.
• Lighting Kit: A lighting kit is necessary to ensure that the brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights of the towed vehicle are visible to other drivers. This kit usually connects to the RV and can either be a magnetic or a permanent installation, allowing for safe communication on the road.
• Base Plate: The base plate is a mounting bracket installed on the small car that connects to the tow bar. It’s designed to fit specific car models, providing a secure attachment point for the towing system while minimizing wear and tear on the vehicle.
• Tow Dolly (optional): A tow dolly is an alternative to a tow bar, allowing the front wheels of the car to be lifted off the ground during towing. This is particularly useful for vehicles that cannot be flat-towed, as it reduces wear on the transmission and provides additional safety.

What Type of Tow Bar Is Most Effective for Your Setup?

The most effective types of tow bars for small cars being towed behind an RV include:

• Fixed Tow Bar: This type of tow bar is permanently attached to the vehicle, providing a sturdy and reliable connection.
• Removable Tow Bar: A removable tow bar can be easily attached and detached, offering flexibility for those who may not want the tow bar on their vehicle at all times.
• Weight Distribution Tow Bar: This option helps to evenly distribute the weight of the towed vehicle, enhancing stability and control during travel.
• Self-Aligning Tow Bar: This type ensures that the tow bar aligns automatically while being connected, making it easier to hook up the towed vehicle, especially for beginners.
• Multi-Fit Tow Bar: Designed to accommodate various vehicle types, this tow bar is a versatile option for RV owners who may tow multiple small cars.

Fixed Tow Bar: Fixed tow bars are known for their durability and strength since they are designed to stay attached to the vehicle permanently. They provide a very stable connection, which can be particularly useful for heavier vehicles, but they might not be the best choice if you prefer a clean look or need to frequently detach the tow setup.

Removable Tow Bar: A removable tow bar is ideal for those who want the option to detach the tow bar when not in use, allowing for a cleaner appearance and reducing drag. They typically feature a locking mechanism that secures the bar in place when towing, ensuring safety and ease of use.

Weight Distribution Tow Bar: This type of tow bar is beneficial for larger setups, as it helps to distribute the weight of the towed vehicle evenly across the RV’s hitch. This can significantly enhance the handling and stability of the RV while driving, which is especially important when navigating turns or rough terrain.

Self-Aligning Tow Bar: Self-aligning tow bars simplify the towing process, as they automatically align the tow bar with the hitch during connection. This feature can be particularly advantageous for novice RV owners or those who may struggle with the alignment process, ensuring a secure connection with minimal effort.

Multi-Fit Tow Bar: Multi-fit tow bars are versatile options for RV owners who may want to tow different small cars. They are designed to adjust to various vehicle mounting points, making them a flexible choice for families who own multiple vehicles or for those who frequently change their towing setup.

Are There Essential Safety Requirements for Towing a Small Car?

When towing a small car behind an RV, there are essential safety requirements to consider:

• Weight Limits: It is crucial to ensure that the weight of the small car does not exceed the towing capacity of the RV.
• Tow Bar and Hitch: A proper tow bar and hitch system is necessary to securely attach the car to the RV.
• Braking System: Depending on the weight and local regulations, an additional braking system for the towed car may be required.
• Safety Chains: Safety chains should be used to provide an extra layer of security between the RV and the car in case of a tow bar failure.
• Lighting and Indicators: Proper lighting and turn signal connections must be established to ensure visibility and communication with other drivers.
• Transmission Position: The transmission of the towed car must be set to the correct position (often neutral) to prevent damage while being towed.
• Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with state and local towing laws, as regulations can vary significantly regarding towing vehicles.

Weight Limits: Each RV has a specified towing capacity, which is the maximum weight it can safely tow. Exceeding this limit can lead to handling issues, increased braking distances, and potential damage to both the RV and the towed car.

Tow Bar and Hitch: A reliable tow bar and hitch system is essential to securely connect the small car to the RV. The tow bar should be rated for the weight of the towed vehicle and properly installed to prevent detachment during transit.

Braking System: Some states require a supplemental braking system when towing vehicles above a certain weight. This system helps to ensure that the towed car can stop effectively, enhancing safety on the road.

Safety Chains: Safety chains are an important safety feature that acts as a backup if the tow bar attachment fails. They should be crossed under the hitch for added stability and must be securely connected to both the RV and the car.

Lighting and Indicators: Properly functioning lights on the towed car are vital for signaling intentions to other drivers. A wiring harness is typically needed to connect the RV’s lighting system to the car’s taillights and turn signals.

Transmission Position: Setting the transmission to the correct position, usually neutral, is crucial to prevent transmission damage while being towed. Always consult the owner’s manual of the towed vehicle for specific instructions.

Legal Requirements: Towing regulations can vary widely by state, including requirements for registration, lighting, and braking systems. It’s important to check local laws to ensure compliance and avoid fines or penalties while towing.

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