Looking at New Durango RT, Acadia Denali, Enclave

[enjoyrv]

Started looking at new tow vehicles. Want 6-7 passenger, flat towable, and AWD. It is our only vehicle as we full time and put on about 20,000 miles a year. Haven't been a Dodge guy in past but like the new Durango setup with hemi. Power train would be same as Jeep Grand Cherokee and I know there are a lot of Jeep fans out there. Know when comparing the three vehicles mentioned, Durango is sportier and Hemi would be just plain fun but at a cost at the pump whereas Acadia is good solid performer but not as exciting. Enclave is more luxury and best ride but maybe something I'd enjoy more in about 10 yrs. I see few Durango's being towed behind a coach but see all kinds of GM's. I also like the ease and no restrictions of the Dodge setup as I sometimes have a heavy foot. Really like the quality of the Honda Crv we have now, just not enough seating and cargo space for when family gets together.

[RVRon]

These are on my short list also. Also Ford Explorer (maybe Sport with Turbo V6 Eco-Boost) as well. I'll be watching this space closely for input.

[enjoyrv]

Ron. Yes Explorer could be an option as well as Flex but neither high on my list. Here's a 2014 Dodge Durango RT I saw in parking lot a day or two ago. Would fit the bill. Haven't driven anything new yet.

[RVRon]

Very nice....my aim is to cut some weight off the toad, considering my Tahoe LTZ tips the scales dry at 5500+ pounds. Any idea on the curb weight of the R/T? And do you know of there is a base plate available for it yet?

[enjoyrv]

Dodge website showed 5,331 lbs for awd RT. Talked to Blue Ox as they didn't show 2014. If you go to their factory in NE, they will fit to your vehicle at no charge other than wiring for the first vehicle they do.

[jamesrxx951]

Are you sure the Durango is flat towable. I have not checked out the AWD system but most AWD systems do not have a transfer case where there is a neutral position. Rear drive transmissions do not like to have the output shaft spun without lube. Some friends of mine just bought one a few months ago and have not really checked it out yet. Also with the 5.7L engine, AWD, RT.

[RVRon]

Originally Posted by jamesrxx951

Are you sure the Durango is flat towable. I have not checked out the AWD system but most AWD systems do not have a transfer case where there is a neutral position. Rear drive transmissions do not like to have the output shaft spun without lube. Some friends of mine just bought one a few months ago and have not really checked it out yet. Also with the 5.7L engine, AWD, RT.

According to the 2013 FMCA dinghy towing guide, AWD Durangos are flat towable providing they are equipped with the two speed transfer case and that owner should refer to the owners manual. There is no speed restriction listed.

[RVRon]

Originally Posted by jamesrxx951

Are you sure the Durango is flat towable. I have not checked out the AWD system but most AWD systems do not have a transfer case where there is a neutral position. Rear drive transmissions do not like to have the output shaft spun without lube. Some friends of mine just bought one a few months ago and have not really checked it out yet. Also with the 5.7L engine, AWD, RT.

From the 2013 FMCA dinghy towing guide; "Only all-wheel drive models equipped with the two-speed transfer case can be towed 4 wheels down " There are no speed restrictions listed, just an admonition to check the owners manual.
Ron

[RVRon]

Sorry for the double post. Slow Wifi apparently.

[enjoyrv]

James. Yes, owners manual says the vehicle I described in my first post is towable 4 down without restrictions. It has to be the hemi AWD with the transfer axle that allows it to be put into neutral. Rear wheel drive model is not towable nor is the V6 model.