Whether
you’re in the market for a no-nonsense heavy-duty pickup
or a nimble, fuel-efficient SUV, the automakers offer a wealth
of choices when it comes to hauling your trailer. Here are just
a few highlights.
Audi
 The
Audi Q7 will be introduced in North America with a 4.2L 350
horsepower engine.
The V8 in the Q7 has FSI direct injection that delivers more
power and dynamism than the conventional power plant with manifold
injection – and it does so with outstanding fuel economy.
This allows the Q7 to tow 5,000 pounds of trailer. The resultant
driving performance is excellent – Quattro ensures excellent
traction and lateral stability, and minimizes the effect of
propulsive power on the vehicle’s self-steering properties.
Cadillac
Based on General Motors’ all-new full-size SUV platform,
the ’07 Escalade features new powertrain, chassis, safety
and interior systems. A new 6.2L V8 rated at 403 horsepower
and 417 pounds-feet of torque is exclusive to Escalade. This
all-aluminium engine uses variable valve timing to optimize
camshaft timing to improve low-rpm torque and high-rpm horsepower.
The introduction of variable valve timing through the unique,
dual-equal cam phaser is the industry’s first application
of VVT on a mass-produced V8 overhead-valve engine. Trailer
towing maximum is 7,400 pounds.
Chevrolet/GMC
Fuel-saving Active Fuel Management displacement-on-demand technology
enables better fuel economy with the 07 Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon.
The small-block V8 helps give the Tahoe the segment’s
best fuel economy. New engine choices allow consumers to choose
the performance level that meets their needs. A Vortec 5.3L
V8 with 320 horsepower and 340 pounds-feet of torque is standard,
while an optional Vortec 4.8L V8 becomes available later and
will be standard on Tahoe 2WD models. Trailer towing capacity
is 7,200 pounds the 2WD model and 7,700 pounds for the 4x4.
In its Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra line, General Motors offers
improvements to its Duramax 6600 courtesy of a strengthened
iron cylinder block and a lower compression ratio. A tow/haul
mode is retained on the Allison 1000 six-speed, but it is complemented
by a new range selection feature. It allows the driver to select
the desired gears, via a thumb-activated switch on the shifter,
providing enhanced control in unique driving situations, such
as towing on a steep grade. The Silverado HD can haul 12,000
pounds with either the 8.1L V8 or the 6.6L diesel.
Dodge
With useful innovations like Stow 'n Go, safety and security
features like a minivan-first inflatable knee blocker and tow
package the 2006 Dodge Caravan can tow 3,800 pounds. 2006 Dodge
Grand Caravan SXT is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 205
horsepower and 240 pounds-feet of torque mated to a four-speed
automatic transmission.
Dakota achieves a best-in-class tow rating of 7,150 lbs. and
a gross combined weight rating of 11,700 lbs. With two V8 offerings,
the 2006 Dodge Dakota dominates the mid-size segment in torque
and towing. The 4.7L V8 Magnum is rated at 230 horsepower and
290 pounds-feet of torque, while the 4.7L High Output Magnum
V8 provides even more performance with 260 horsepower and 310
pounds-feet of torque.
A significant contributor to Dodge Durango's improved fuel efficiency
is MDS technology, which is now standard on the 5.7-liter Hemi
V8. Customers will experience estimated fuel economy gains of
up to 20 percent under various driving conditions. MDS seamlessly
alternates between smooth, high-fuel economy four-cylinder mode
when less power is needed, and eight-cylinder mode when more
power from the 5.7L HEMI engine is in demand. Dodge Durango's
smooth ride is also the result of a unique rear suspension with
coil springs and a solid rear axle that delivers durability,
payload and best-in-class towing capability of 8,950 lbs.
Featuring available Hemi power with Multi-Displacement System
(MDS), a new hydroformed and fully boxed frame, the 2006 Dodge
Ram 1500/2500 features a five-speed automatic transmission with
a unique alternate second gear ratio for use in difficult towing
and grade-climbing situations. With the 5.7L engine and 3.92
axle, the Ram 1500 can tow 9,250 pounds while the 2500 series,
with a 4.10 rear and the High Output 5.9L diesel, can tow up
to 13,450 pounds. (Page Top)
Ford
The 2006 Expedition comes with the new 300 horsepower, 5.4L,
three-valve Triton V8 first introduced on the 2004 Ford F-150
as standard equipment. By using two intake valves instead of
one, along with charge-motion-control valves, the new cylinder
head assures optimum delivery of the air-fuel mixture to the
cylinder at any engine speed. The centrally located spark plug
and computer-controlled variable valve timing help improve combustion
efficiency and reduce emissions. When properly equipped, the
two-wheel drive Expedition is rated to tow up to 8,900 pounds.
 The
larger Explorer is available in three series: XLT, Eddie Bauer
and Limited. The 4.0L two-valve V6 engine (210 horsepower, 254
pounds-feet of torque) is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission
and supported with an independent rear suspension. An all-new
interior with a contemporary instrument panel, console floor
shifter and new trim and seating designs includes Ford’s
60/40 split-folding second-row seating with recline capability.
The Limited adds a 4.6L V8 engine, with six-speed automatic
transmission. The 4.0L offers a tow rating of 5,760 pounds,
while the 4.6L engine gives a rating of 7,200 pounds.
Ford’s F150 offers three engine choices for 2006: a 4.2L
V6 engine, a 4.6L Triton V8 and the top-of-the-line, 300 horsepower
5.4L Triton V8. The 5.4L Triton V8 engine is designed with three
valves per cylinder, variable cam timing and a host of other
features that provide increased power along with a quieter operation
and improved fuel efficiency. It can tow 9,500 pounds of trailer.
For big jobs, three engine options are available in the 2006
F250/F350 Super Duty line, include the 6.8L, three-valve Triton
V-10, the Power Stroke diesel and Ford’s modular 5.4L,
giving Ford’s Super Duty pickups more towing and payload
capacity than ever – select the optional Tow Boss package
and you enjoy a class-leading 19,200 pound tow rating. The TowCommand
System, which includes the industry’s first factory-installed
and warranted electronic trailer brake controller, offers smoother
operation and safety features.
Jeep
For 2006 Jeep’s Liberty adds the Electronic Stability
Program (ESP) as standard equipment to its stack of customer
benefits. ESP provides enhanced vehicle stability on all surfaces.
It applies selective braking and throttle input to put the car
back onto the driver’s intended path. Since the Jeep Liberty
was introduced in 2002, customers have overwhelmingly opted
for its 3.7L engine, rated at 210 horsepower with 235 pounds-feet
of torque. Trailer rating is 5,000 pounds. Or opt for the 160
horsepower diesel.
The new Jeep Commander is the first Jeep vehicle with three
rows of seats. The Commander offers three different 4x4 systems
and three different engines. The 3.7L engine produces 210 horsepower
and 235 pounds-feet of torque, for a tow rating of 3,500 pounds.
The 4.7L offers 235 horsepower and 305 pounds-feet of torque
for trailers up to 6,500 pounds, or select the 5.7L Hemi to
tow up to 7,200 pounds.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4 model features a 4.7L, SOHC
V8 engine that produces 235 horsepower and 305 pounds-feet of
torque for a towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. Optional equipment
includes the Quadra-Drive II, 5.7L Hemi V8 engine, 17-inch aluminium
chrome clad wheels, DVD-based navigation radio, ParkSense, power
sun roof and a trailer tow package.
Hummer
The H2 is the civilian version of the original H1 military Humvee
and is rated at 6,700 pounds with the 6.0L V8 gas engine. The
engine is mated to a heavy-duty Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic
with overdrive. Capable of traveling through streams 20 inches
deep, climbing 16 inch steps and rocks, paddling through deep
sand and out-distancing competitors in high-speed desert runs,
the H2 can go places your trailer can’t.
Infinity
 The
Infiniti QX56 meets and exceeds the expectations of full-size
luxury SUV owners with ample power from the 315 horsepower V8,
interior roominess with seating for up to eight and maximum
utility with generous cargo, excellent towing capacity and rugged
off-road capability. The standard 5.6-liter DOHC V8 produces
315 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque for a maximum towing
capacity of 8,800 pounds. Every QX56 also comes with a standard
five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission
with tow/haul modes for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
Mercedes Benz
 The
5.0L V8 in the G500 produces 292 horsepower and 336 pounds-feet
of torque. Developed for military duty and originally called
the Geländewagen in Europe (for “terrain vehicle”),
the G-Class is a no-compromise off-roader with a cliff-climbing,
stump-pulling personality that can tow 7,000 pounds. Standard
ABS anti-lock brakes help to provide directional control during
emergency braking, while Mercedes-Benz Brake Assist ensures
full-power braking in emergency stops. In addition, Electronic
Brake Force Distribution provides enhanced straight-line stopping,
while retaining good braking in curves.
The new generation M-Class is available with a choice of V6
or V8 power. Under the hood of the ML350 is a new 3.5L V6 engine
delivering a class-leading 268 horsepower and 258 pounds-feet
of torque. The ML500 is powered by a 5.0L V8 with 302-horsepower
and 339 pounds-feet of torque. Both have a tow rating of 6,200
pounds.
Land Rover
 Land
Rover LR3 broadens its lineup in 2006 with the addition of a
4.0L V6 engine, giving consumers a greater level of trim choices
for the award-winning SUV. Additionally, the highly popular
third row seating option is now standard on all HSE models.
Since its introduction last year, LR3’s powerful on-road
performance, unparalleled off-road standards, and state-of-the-art
technologies have set a new industry standard. The LR3 with
a 4.4L V8 engine can tow 7,700 pounds in low range, the same
as the larger Range Rover. (Page Top)
Lexus
With its innovative full-time four-wheel drive system, the eight-passenger
GX 470 offers controlled handling and a composed ride, on- or-off
road, thanks to robust body-on-frame construction and an Adaptive
Variable Suspension for the ultimate in all-terrain capability.
GX 470 is also equipped with a seven-pin trailer wire harness
for a towing capacity of 6,500 lbs. The 2006 GX 470 is powered
by a 4.7L V8 that produces 263 horsepower and 323 pounds-feet
of torque.
 The
Lexus LX 470 luxury SUV is the vehicle of choice for drivers
who want rugged off-road ability in a package of outstanding
luxury and refinement. The 4.7L V8 engine increases to 275 horsepower
(from 235) and torque increases to 332 pounds-feet (from 320).
With the 4.7L V8, the LX 470 has a tow rating of 5,000 pounds.
The RX330 is the first Lexus ever to be built outside of Japan,
at the award-winning Toyota plant in Cambridge, Ontario. RX330’s
all-weather power and confidence start with a 3.3L V6 engine
that produces 223 horsepower and 238 pounds-feet of torque for
a tow rating of 3,500 pounds.
Mitsubishi
 The
Montero is much more than a fully-equipped, full-size SUV –
it’s an undisputed legend. Based on the same technology
that produced the winner of the last four Dakar Rally races,
it blends big-time performance and dependability with luxurious
amenities that are designed to cater to everyone's every whim.
With its 3.8L 215 horsepower V6, it can pull 5,000 pounds.
Mitsubishi’s Endeavor backs its invigorating design and
in-your-face attitude with a 225-horsepower V6 that quickly
separates it from the pretenders. Both 2WD and AWD models feature
a four-speed Sportronic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control
and clutchless manual shift mode. It will tow 3,500 pounds.
Nissan
Nissan’s popular Frontier provides exceptional acceleration,
towing capacity and all-around off-road ability due in large
measure to its powerful engine – a 4.0L DOHC V6 producing
265 horsepower and 284 pounds-feet of torque. It includes a
Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System , Nissan variable
Induction Control System, and 105,000-mile spark plugs. The
Frontier’s maximum towing capacity is rated at up to 6,500
pounds when properly equipped.
 For
bigger jobs, Nissan’s Titan full-size pickup offers an
all-aluminium 5.6L V8 that produces 305 horsepower and 379 pounds-feet
of torque for a maximum towing capacity of 9,500 pounds in the
King Cab and 9,300 pounds in Crew Cab configuration –
as much as some 3/4-ton pickups. If an SUV is more your style,
then the Armada remains the 5.6L, 32-valve DOHC V8 that can
haul up to 9,000 pounds.
The 2006 Nissan Murano comes in a choice of AWD for enhanced
all-weather performance or front-wheel drive – both with
a standard 3.5L V6 rated at 245 horsepower and 246 pounds-feet
of torque, for a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Subaru
All Outback 3.0 R models are powered by a 250 horsepower 3.0L
DOHC 6-cylinder, providing a 3,000 pound towing capacity with
a 200 pound hitch weight. The B9 Tribeca is built on a highly
modified version of the Outback platform, but with a longer
wheelbase and wider front and rear track. The front suspension
has been revised to provide enhanced ride smoothness in this
larger vehicle. An all-new double wishbone rear suspension system
replaces the multi-link configuration in Outback, providing
more interior room for the available third-row seat while preserving
crisp, agile handling and a smooth ride. The net result is a
3,500 pound tow rating with a 350 pounds of hitch weight.
Toyota
With its versatile Tundra pickup, Toyota proves that a full-sized
pickup can combine exceptional ride comfort and sophisticated
handling with hard-working power and rugged utility. The available
4.7L i-Force DOHC V8 produces 271 horsepower, with 313 pounds-feet
of torque , and is teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission
in 4x2 and 4x4 models. Tundra V6 models come with the 4x2 powertrain
with a standard six-speed manual transmission, with the five-speed
automatic available as an option. The Tundra offers up to 7,100-pound
towing capacity.
The Tacoma compact pickup gains a sporty new performance model
for 2006 – the rear-wheel-drive X-Runner Access Cab. The
X-Runner derives its name from its exclusive “x-braced”
reinforced frame for enhanced torsional rigidity. The Tacoma
is equipped with an outstanding range of standard equipment,
including a 236 horsepower 4.0L V6 and a tow rating of 5,000
pounds. The PreRunner 4x4 with tow prep package can tow up to
7,500 pounds.
The popular Highlander SUV remains essentially unchanged for
2006 – why mess with success? – with both gas and
hybrid models offering a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The
larger 4Runner’s standard 4.0L V6 engine handles trailers
to 5,000 pounds, while the optional 4.7L i-Force V8 can handle
up to 7,300 pounds. Prefer an SUV? Toyota’s top-of-the-line
Sequoia handles 6,500 pounds. (Page Top) |
