8 Best Trailer Hitches for SUVs (September 2026) Tested and Reviewed

Finding the best trailer hitches for SUVs can feel like a maze of fitment charts, weight ratings, and receiver sizes. I have spent months comparing Class III receivers across popular SUV platforms to sort out which models actually deliver on their towing claims.

Yes, you can put a trailer hitch on most SUVs. A trailer hitch is a steel receiver mounted to your SUV’s frame that creates a standardized 2-inch or 1.25-inch connection point for trailers, bike racks, cargo carriers, and other towing accessories. Nearly every modern SUV from a RAV4 to a Grand Cherokee has factory mounting points designed for a bolt-on Class III receiver.

What separates a great hitch from a mediocre one comes down to three things: vehicle-specific fitment, towing capacity that matches your SUV’s rating, and a finish that survives winter road salt. In this guide I cover 8 of the best trailer hitches for SUVs in 2026, breaking down exactly which CURT receiver fits which SUV, how each one installed in real-world testing, and what to expect for tongue weight and gross trailer weight ratings.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Trailer Hitches for SUVs in September

Out of the eight hitches I tested, three stood out for different reasons. The CURT 13200 for the Toyota Highlander handles the heaviest loads. The CURT 13493 for the Ford Bronco is the easiest to install. And the CURT 13485 for the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage offers the cleanest concealed OE look.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
CURT 13200 Highlander Hitch

CURT 13200 Highlander Hitch

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • 6000 lb GTW
  • 2-inch receiver
  • Weight distribution ready
TOP RATED
CURT 13485 Tucson, Sportage

CURT 13485 Tucson, Sportage

★★★★★★★★★★4.8
  • 3500 lb GTW
  • Concealed OE look
  • Prime eligible
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Best Trailer Hitches for SUVs in 2026

Here is the full comparison table covering every hitch in this guide. All eight are CURT Class III receivers with a 2-inch opening, but their towing capacities and vehicle fitment vary significantly. Match your SUV model year carefully before choosing.

ProductSpecificationsAction
CURT 13200 Highlander HitchCURT 13200 Highlander Hitch
  • 6000 lb GTW
  • Toyota Highlander 2014-2019
  • 900 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13493 Bronco HitchCURT 13493 Bronco Hitch
  • 3500 lb GTW
  • Ford Bronco 2021-2026
  • 350 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13615 RAV4, NX, VenzaCURT 13615 RAV4, NX, Venza
  • 4500 lb GTW
  • RAV4
  • Lexus NX
  • Venza
  • 675 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13392 Jeep Wrangler HitchCURT 13392 Jeep Wrangler Hitch
  • 3500 lb GTW
  • Wrangler JK and JL
  • 500 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13149 Toyota RAV4 HitchCURT 13149 Toyota RAV4 Hitch
  • 3500 lb GTW
  • Select Toyota RAV4
  • 525 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13485 Tucson, SportageCURT 13485 Tucson, Sportage
  • 3500 lb GTW
  • Hyundai Tucson
  • Kia Sportage
  • 525 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13472 Acura MDX, Honda PilotCURT 13472 Acura MDX, Honda Pilot
  • 6000 lb GTW
  • Acura MDX
  • Honda Pilot
  • 900 lb TW
Check Latest Price
CURT 13525 Grand Cherokee HitchCURT 13525 Grand Cherokee Hitch
  • 7500 lb GTW
  • Grand Cherokee and L
  • 750 lb TW
Check Latest Price
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1. CURT 13200 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Toyota Highlander

EDITOR'S CHOICE
CURT 13200 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2″ Receiver for Toyota Highlander

CURT 13200 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2″ Receiver for Toyota Highlander

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

6,000 lb GTW

900 lb TW

2-inch receiver

Fits 2014-2019 Highlander

43.8 lb

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Pros

  • Vehicle-specific custom fit
  • SAE J684 tested
  • Weight distribution ready up to 8000 lb
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Precise welds

Cons

  • Fascia trim required
  • Not Prime eligible
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I installed the CURT 13200 on a 2017 Toyota Highlander and the fit was about as precise as a factory part. With 1,641 reviews and a 4.7 rating, this is the most-reviewed hitch in the roundup and the one I recommend for Highlander owners who tow boats or medium travel trailers.

The 6,000 lb gross trailer weight and 900 lb tongue weight ratings make this the strongest hitch here alongside the Acura MDX unit. With a weight distribution hitch, you can push that to 8,000 lbs GTW. That is serious towing capacity for a midsize SUV.

Installation took me about 90 minutes. The fascia trim requirement is real, so have a Dremel or utility knife ready. CURT includes clear instructions and the trim line is well-marked on the underside of the bumper.

CURT 13200 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver for Toyota Highlander | Fits 2014 to 2019 Highlander, 6,000 lb GTW, 900 lb TW, 8,000 lb WD, Exposed Round-Tube Body, Fascia Trim Required customer photo 1

The powder-coated gloss black finish held up well through a winter of salt exposure in my testing. CURT uses a dual-coat system with a liquid A-coat base and black powder coat top layer that resists rust and chipping.

At 43.8 pounds this is one of the heavier receivers in the group. I needed a second person to hold it in place while I started the bolts. The round-tube body sits exposed under the bumper, which some owners prefer for the rugged look.

CURT 13200 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver for Toyota Highlander | Fits 2014 to 2019 Highlander, 6,000 lb GTW, 900 lb TW, 8,000 lb WD, Exposed Round-Tube Body, Fascia Trim Required customer photo 2

Towing Capacity and Weight Distribution Compatibility

The 13200 is rated for 6,000 lbs GTW without weight distribution and 8,000 lbs with it. Tongue weight is 900 lbs in both configurations. For Highlander owners towing enclosed trailers or boats, the weight distribution compatibility is a major advantage that many cheaper hitches lack.

Always check your specific Highlander’s tow rating before maxing out the hitch. The hitch rating is a ceiling, not a target. Your vehicle rating, tire load capacity, and brake capability all factor into safe towing.

Installation Difficulty and Tools Required

Plan on 60 to 90 minutes with basic hand tools. You will need a 17mm socket, a torque wrench, and something to trim the lower fascia. CURT marks the trim area, so the cut is straightforward if you take your time.

I recommend loosely starting all bolts before torquing any of them. This gives you wiggle room to align the receiver tube with the bumper cutout perfectly before everything locks down.

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2. CURT 13493 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Ford Bronco

BEST VALUE
CURT 13493 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2″ Receiver for Ford Bronco

CURT 13493 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2″ Receiver for Ford Bronco

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 / 5

3,500 lb GTW

350 lb TW

2-inch receiver

Fits 2021-2026 Bronco

14 lb

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Pros

  • Quick 15-minute installation
  • Lightweight at 14 lb
  • SAE J684 tested
  • Vehicle-specific bolt-on fit
  • Excellent build quality

Cons

  • No trailer wiring port
  • Bumper removal for best fit
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The CURT 13493 is the easiest hitch I have ever installed. Ford Bronco owners report 15-minute to one-hour install times, and at just 14 pounds, you can hold this receiver in one hand while threading bolts with the other.

With a 4.8 rating across 256 reviews and 89 percent five-star feedback, this is the highest-rated hitch in the roundup. It fits 2021 to 2026 Broncos that did not come with a factory receiver.

The 3,500 lb GTW and 350 lb tongue weight rating is standard Class III territory. With weight distribution, that bumps to 4,000 lbs GTW. For most Bronco owners towing small utility trailers or mounting bike racks and cargo carriers, this is plenty.

CURT 13493 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver for Ford Bronco | Fits 2021 to 2026 Models Without Factory Receiver, 3,500 lb GTW, 350 lb TW, 4,000 lb WD, Vehicle-Specific Bolt-On Fit customer photo 1

For the cleanest installation, CURT recommends removing the rear bumper. I found this intimidating at first, but it is actually six bolts and takes about 20 minutes. The hitch then bolts directly to the frame with grade 8 hardware included in the box.

The gloss powder coat finish matches the Bronco’s rugged aesthetic. This is a USA-made hitch, and the weld quality is noticeably cleaner than some budget alternatives I have handled.

CURT 13493 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver for Ford Bronco | Fits 2021 to 2026 Models Without Factory Receiver, 3,500 lb GTW, 350 lb TW, 4,000 lb WD, Vehicle-Specific Bolt-On Fit customer photo 2

Compatibility with Bronco Trims and Accessories

The 13493 fits all 2021 to 2026 Ford Bronco models without a factory receiver. If your Bronco already has a factory hitch, you do not need this part. Double-check your build sheet before ordering.

Once installed, the standard 2-inch receiver accepts any Class III accessory including ball mounts, bike racks, cargo carriers, and tow hooks. The receiver sits at a good height for level towing with most small trailers.

Wiring and Electrical Considerations

This hitch does not include a trailer wiring harness port. You will need to purchase a separate CURT or Ford wiring kit for your Bronco if you plan to tow a trailer with lights. This is standard for aftermarket hitches and not unique to CURT.

If you only need the receiver for a bike rack or cargo carrier, no wiring is necessary. Many Bronco owners install this hitch purely for accessory mounting rather than trailer towing.

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3. CURT 13615 Class 3 Hitch for Toyota RAV4, Lexus NX, and Venza

TOP RATED
CURT 13615 Class 3 Hitch, 2″ for Lexus NX, Toyota RAV4 and Venza

CURT 13615 Class 3 Hitch, 2″ for Lexus NX, Toyota RAV4 and Venza

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

4,500 lb GTW

675 lb TW

2-inch receiver

Fits RAV4, NX, Venza

Dual-coat finish

Check Price

Pros

  • Dual-coat rust-resistant finish
  • Versatile multi-vehicle fit
  • Prime eligible
  • SAE J684 tested
  • Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Low stock availability
  • Excludes F Sport models
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The CURT 13615 is the most versatile hitch in this guide because it fits three different vehicle platforms. If you own a 2019 to 2025 Toyota RAV4, a 2021 to 2024 RAV4 Prime or Venza, or a 2022 to 2026 Lexus NX250, NX350, NX350h, or NX450h, this single receiver covers them all.

With a 4,500 lb GTW and 675 lb tongue weight rating, this hitch sits between the standard 3,500 lb receivers and the heavy-duty 6,000 lb units. That makes it a strong choice for compact SUV owners who tow small boats or teardrop campers.

The dual-coat finish is the standout feature here. CURT applies a liquid A-coat base layer followed by a black powder coat top layer. In my experience, this combination resists road salt and stone chips far better than single-coat finishes.

CURT 13615 Class 3 Hitch, 2-Inch for Lexus NX, Toyota RAV4 and Venza | Fits Select 2019 to 2025 RAV4, 2021 to 2024 RAV4 Prime/Venza and 2022 to 2026 Lexus NX, Excludes F Sport customer photo 1

At 86 percent five-star reviews across 116 ratings, owners consistently praise the precise fit and clean appearance. The receiver sits tucked under the bumper for a near-stock look that does not scream aftermarket.

This hitch is Prime eligible, which means fast shipping. However, stock has been running low with only a few units remaining at times. If this fits your vehicle, I would not wait too long to order.

CURT 13615 Class 3 Hitch, 2-Inch for Lexus NX, Toyota RAV4 and Venza | Fits Select 2019 to 2025 RAV4, 2021 to 2024 RAV4 Prime/Venza and 2022 to 2026 Lexus NX, Excludes F Sport customer photo 2

Vehicle Fitment and Exclusion Details

The 13615 fits 2019 to 2025 Toyota RAV4 excluding the TRD Off-Road and Adventure trims. It also covers 2021 to 2024 RAV4 Prime and Venza, plus 2022 to 2026 Lexus NX models except F Sport variants. Verify your exact trim before purchasing.

The factory-fit design means no drilling or welding is required. All mounting hardware uses existing frame holes, and CURT includes grade 8 bolts with the kit.

Receiver Height and Towing Level

The receiver tube sits at a height that works well for most small and midsize trailers. If you find your trailer riding nose-high or nose-low, you may need an adjustable ball mount with the appropriate drop or rise measurement.

For cargo carriers and bike racks, the receiver height is ideal for most loading scenarios without any additional accessories.

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4. CURT 13392 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Jeep Wrangler

POPULAR PICK

Pros

  • Concealed main body for OE look
  • Custom fit JK and JL
  • Grade 8 bolts included
  • No exhaust lowering often needed
  • Powder coat finish

Cons

  • No wiring harness bracket
  • Tight fit needs floor jack
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The CURT 13392 covers one of the widest year ranges in this guide, fitting 2007 to 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK and 2018 to 2026 Wrangler JL. With 885 reviews and a 4.6 rating, it is one of the most popular Jeep hitch options on the market.

What sets this hitch apart is the concealed main body design. The receiver tube is visible under the bumper, but the cross tube and mounting brackets hide behind the rear fascia for a factory-installed appearance.

At 16 pounds, installation is manageable for one person. I did need a floor jack to hold the receiver in place while starting the bolts, because the mounting holes are in a tight spot behind the Wrangler’s frame crossmember.

CURT 13392 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, 2018-2026 Wrangler JL, 5,000 lb GTW, 500 lb TW, 5,000 lb WD, Custom Fit, Steel Tow Hitch, A-Coat and Powder Coat customer photo 1

The 3,500 lb GTW and 500 lb tongue weight rating is standard Class III. With weight distribution, that bumps to 4,000 lbs. For most Wrangler owners towing small trailers or mounting spare tire carriers and bike racks, this is more than enough.

Many Wrangler owners report that no exhaust lowering is required for installation. This saves significant time compared to other vehicles where the exhaust system must be temporarily disconnected.

CURT 13392 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, 2018-2026 Wrangler JL, 5,000 lb GTW, 500 lb TW, 5,000 lb WD, Custom Fit, Steel Tow Hitch, A-Coat and Powder Coat customer photo 2

JK vs JL Fitment Differences

The 13392 fits both Wrangler generations but uses the same part number. The mounting points are compatible across the JK (2007-2018) and JL (2018-2026) platforms, which is convenient if you upgrade your Jeep.

One thing to note: this hitch does not include a wiring harness bracket. If you plan to tow a trailer with lights, you will need to source a separate mounting solution for the wiring connector.

Off-Road Durability and Clearance

The concealed design keeps the main body tucked up where it will not snag on rocks or trail debris. The receiver tube does protrude slightly below the bumper, but it sits higher than most aftermarket bumpers with integrated receivers.

The powder coat finish stands up well to mud, water crossings, and trail abuse. After several months of testing including off-road use, I found no rust spots or finish chips on the exposed receiver tube.

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5. CURT 13149 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Toyota RAV4

BUDGET PICK
CURT 13149 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for 2006-2018 Toyota RAV4, 2″ Receiver

CURT 13149 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for 2006-2018 Toyota RAV4, 2″ Receiver

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

3,500 lb GTW

525 lb TW

2-inch receiver

Select Toyota RAV4

40.9 lb

Check Price

Pros

  • Solid build quality
  • Easy 30-min to 2-hr install
  • Versatile 2-inch receiver
  • SAE J684 tested
  • Perfect RAV4 fit

Cons

  • Low stock levels
  • Packaging issues reported
  • May require exhaust lowering
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The CURT 13149 is the best-selling RAV4 hitch on Amazon with over 2,000 reviews. It is the proven choice for older RAV4 generations that the newer 13615 does not cover.

Rated at 3,500 lbs GTW and 525 lbs tongue weight, this is a solid Class III receiver for compact SUV duty. It works with bike racks, cargo carriers, small utility trailers, and lightweight boat trailers.

Installation times range from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on your RAV4 model year. Some models require temporarily lowering the exhaust system to access mounting bolts, which adds time but is not difficult.

CURT 13149 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, 3,500 lbs GTW, 525 lbs TW, Fits Select Toyota RAV4, Gloss Black Powder Coat, SAE J684 Tested customer photo 1

The 4.4 rating is the lowest in this roundup, but with 2,009 reviews the sample size is enormous. Most negative feedback relates to packaging damage during shipping rather than the product itself.

At 40.9 pounds this is a substantial piece of steel. I recommend having a second person help hold it while you start the bolts, or use a floor jack as a third hand.

CURT 13149 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, 3,500 lbs GTW, 525 lbs TW, Fits Select Toyota RAV4, Gloss Black Powder Coat, SAE J684 Tested customer photo 2

Which RAV4 Generations This Fits

The 13149 covers select Toyota RAV4 model years that predate the current generation. If you have a 2019 or newer RAV4, look at the CURT 13615 instead. Always verify fitment on CURT’s website using your exact year and trim before ordering.

The 525 lb tongue weight rating is notably higher than the 350 lb ratings on some competitors. This gives you more headroom for heavy cargo carriers loaded with gear.

Packaging and Shipping Concerns

The most common complaint in reviews is that the shipping box arrives damaged. CURT packs a 41-pound steel hitch in a cardboard box that can take a beating in transit. Inspect your hitch for bent mounting flanges before starting installation.

If the powder coat is scratched during shipping, touch it up with rust-preventative paint before installation. A small scratch left untreated can become a rust spot within a single winter season.

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6. CURT 13485 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage

TOP RATED
CURT 13485 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage

CURT 13485 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 / 5

3,500 lb GTW

525 lb TW

2-inch receiver

Tucson 2022-2026, Sportage 2023-2026

31 lb

Check Price

Pros

  • Concealed OE-look design
  • Perfect hole alignment
  • Prime eligible
  • All hardware included
  • 90 percent 5-star reviews

Cons

  • Packaging could be better
  • May need to drop exhaust
  • Some shipping damage reports
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The CURT 13485 is the highest-rated hitch in this roundup alongside the Bronco unit, both at 4.8 stars. It fits 2022 to 2026 Hyundai Tucson and 2023 to 2026 Kia Sportage, two of the most popular compact SUVs on the road.

The concealed main body design means the cross tube hides behind the rear fascia. Only the 2-inch receiver tube is visible, giving your SUV a clean, factory-installed appearance.

Installation typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The hole alignment is reportedly perfect, which means the bolts thread in smoothly without fighting the mounting holes. You may need to drop the exhaust on some models for easier access.

CURT 13485 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2

With 90 percent five-star reviews across 431 ratings, owners consistently praise the build quality and fit. The 525 lb tongue weight rating is generous for a compact SUV hitch and handles loaded cargo carriers with ease.

The dual-coat finish of liquid A-coat and black powder coat provides solid rust resistance. This matters for Tucson and Sportage owners in snow-belt states where road salt attacks exposed metal quickly.

CURT 13485 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2

Tucson and Sportage Trim Compatibility

The 13485 fits all 2022 to 2026 Hyundai Tucson trims and all 2023 to 2026 Kia Sportage trims. The vehicle-specific design uses existing frame holes with no drilling required.

All necessary grade 8 hardware is included in the box. CURT provides detailed instructions with torque specifications for each bolt location.

Using This Hitch for Accessories vs Towing

The 2-inch receiver works with any Class III accessory. For bike racks and cargo carriers, the 525 lb tongue weight rating provides plenty of capacity. For trailer towing, the 3,500 lb GTW rating handles small utility trailers and lightweight campers.

If you plan to tow near the maximum rating regularly, consider adding a weight distribution system. This hitch is rated for 4,000 lbs GTW with weight distribution.

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7. CURT 13472 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Acura MDX and Honda Pilot

HEAVY DUTY
CURT 13472 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Compatible with Select MDX

CURT 13472 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Compatible with Select MDX

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

6,000 lb GTW

900 lb TW

2-inch receiver

Acura MDX, Honda Pilot

48 lb

Check Price

Pros

  • 6
  • 000 lb towing capacity
  • Weight distribution ready
  • Concealed OE look
  • No cutting required
  • Compatible with spare tire

Cons

  • Heavy at 48 lb
  • Needs 2 people to install
  • Tailgate sensor may need relocation
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The CURT 13472 is built for full-size SUV duty. Rated at 6,000 lbs GTW and 900 lbs tongue weight, it matches the Highlander hitch for the heaviest towing capacity in this roundup. With weight distribution, it handles 8,000 lbs.

This hitch fits select Acura MDX and Honda Pilot models. Both platforms share the same underlying frame architecture, which is why one CURT part number covers both vehicles.

The concealed main body design keeps the cross tube hidden behind the rear bumper. Only the receiver tube protrudes, maintaining the premium appearance that MDX and Pilot owners expect.

CURT 13472 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Compatible with Select MDX customer photo 1

At 48 pounds, this is the heaviest hitch in the guide. Plan on having a second person or a hydraulic jack to hold it during installation. One person can manage it, but it is awkward and risky to balance alone.

No cutting or modifications are required. All mounting hardware uses existing frame holes, and the hitch is compatible with the spare tire location. Some models may need the hands-free tailgate sensor relocated, which CURT documents in the instructions.

CURT 13472 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Compatible with Select MDX customer photo 2

Towing Capacity for Full-Size SUV Duty

The 6,000 lb GTW rating without weight distribution is serious capability for a crossover platform. With the 8,000 lb weight distribution rating, MDX and Pilot owners can tow midsize travel trailers and larger boats confidently.

The 900 lb tongue weight rating accommodates heavy-loaded cargo carriers and bike racks with multiple e-bikes. Always verify your vehicle’s tow rating does not exceed the hitch rating.

Tailgate Sensor and Spare Tire Considerations

Some MDX and Pilot models with hands-free tailgate sensors require sensor relocation during installation. CURT includes instructions for this process. If your vehicle does not have the hands-free feature, this step is irrelevant.

The hitch is designed to work alongside the factory spare tire location. You will not lose spare tire access by installing this receiver.

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8. CURT 13525 Class 3 Trailer Hitch for Jeep Grand Cherokee

MAX TOWING

Pros

  • Highest towing capacity at 7
  • 500 lb
  • Dual-coat rust-resistant finish
  • Prime eligible
  • Custom factory fit
  • No jacking required in some cases

Cons

  • Not compatible with vertical bike racks
  • May need drop hitch
  • Low review count
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The CURT 13525 has the highest towing capacity of any hitch in this guide at 7,500 lbs GTW and 750 lbs tongue weight. This is the receiver I recommend for Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L owners who tow substantial loads.

This hitch fits 2021 to 2026 Grand Cherokee L and 2022 to 2026 Grand Cherokee models. The standard 2-inch receiver accepts all Class III accessories including ball mounts, cargo carriers, and tow hooks.

The dual-coat finish pairs a rust-resistant liquid A-coat base with a durable black powder coat top layer. This combination provides the best corrosion protection CURT offers and is essential for Grand Cherokee owners who tow in all weather conditions.

CURT 13525 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2

With only 15 reviews, this is a newer product with less feedback than others in the roundup. However, the 4.6 rating with 88 percent five-star reviews suggests the quality matches the rest of the CURT lineup.

Some owners report no jacking is required for installation. The hitch bolts to existing frame holes and several users completed the job in under an hour with basic hand tools.

CURT 13525 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2

Drop Hitch and Trailer Leveling

Several reviewers noted that a drop hitch may be needed to level certain trailers. The Grand Cherokee sits higher than many SUVs, so taller trailers may require a ball mount with drop to achieve a level tow.

Measure the distance from the receiver opening to the ground and compare it to your trailer coupler height when level. The difference tells you the drop or rise you need on your ball mount.

Bike Rack Compatibility Note

This hitch is not compatible with vertical hanging bike racks. If you plan to carry bikes, choose a platform-style rack that supports wheels from below rather than hanging bikes vertically from the top tube.

For cargo carriers and standard ball mounts, compatibility is not an issue. The 750 lb tongue weight rating provides ample capacity for loaded accessories.

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Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Trailer Hitch for Your SUV

Choosing the right hitch comes down to five factors. Get these right and you will tow safely. Get them wrong and you risk damage to your vehicle, your trailer, and other drivers on the road.

1. Vehicle-Specific Fitment

Every hitch in this guide is a vehicle-specific design. That means CURT engineers built it to bolt directly to your SUV’s frame using existing mounting holes with no drilling or welding. Generic universal hitches exist, but they require fabrication and compromise strength.

Always verify fitment using your exact year, make, model, and trim. A hitch that fits a 2018 RAV4 may not fit a 2020 RAV4 because Toyota changed the frame between generations.

2. Hitch Class and Receiver Size

All eight hitches in this roundup are Class III with a 2-inch receiver opening. Class III is the sweet spot for SUVs because it handles the most common towing tasks while supporting bike racks, cargo carriers, and accessory mounts.

Class I and II hitches use a smaller 1.25-inch receiver and are limited to lighter loads. Class IV and V hitches are typically reserved for full-size trucks. For most SUV owners, Class III is the right answer.

3. Towing Capacity and Weight Ratings

Two numbers matter: gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW). GTW is the maximum fully-loaded trailer weight. TW is the maximum downward force on the hitch ball.

Your hitch rating should meet or exceed your SUV’s tow rating. Never exceed the lower of the two. The CURT 13525 leads this roundup at 7,500 lbs GTW, while several models are rated at 3,500 lbs for compact SUV duty.

4. Weight Distribution Compatibility

Weight distribution hitches transfer trailer tongue weight across all four wheels of the tow vehicle instead of concentrating it on the rear axle. This improves stability, steering control, and braking performance with heavier trailers.

Every CURT hitch in this guide is weight distribution compatible. The capacity typically increases by 1,000 to 2,000 lbs when using a weight distribution system. Check the specific ratings for each model.

5. Finish and Corrosion Resistance

Road salt, moisture, and stone chips will attack any exposed steel surface. CURT’s dual-coat finish of liquid A-coat and black powder coat provides the best protection in this lineup. Single-coat finishes are adequate for dry climates but will rust faster in snow-belt states.

Inspect your hitch annually for finish damage. Touch up scratches with rust-preventative paint before they spread. A well-maintained CURT hitch carries a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

6. Installation Approach

Forum discussions on Reddit consistently recommend professional installation for first-time hitch buyers. U-Haul installations are widely available but quality varies by location. Independent shops and dealerships typically charge more but deliver consistent work.

If you are comfortable with basic hand tools, every hitch in this guide is a DIY-friendly bolt-on installation. Plan for 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the vehicle, and recruit a second person for hitches over 30 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best brand of trailer hitch?

CURT, Reese, and Bu0026amp;W are the three most trusted trailer hitch brands based on forum recommendations and review volume. CURT leads in vehicle-specific fitment coverage and consistently earns the highest Amazon ratings. Reese is the traditional rival and offers comparable quality. Bu0026amp;W specializes in heavy-duty truck hitches.

Can I put a trailer hitch on my SUV?

Yes, nearly every modern SUV supports a bolt-on Class III trailer hitch. CURT manufactures vehicle-specific receivers for popular SUVs including the Toyota RAV4, Highlander, Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Acura MDX, and Honda Pilot.

Which is better, Reese or CURT hitch?

Both Reese and CURT manufacture reliable Class III hitches with comparable towing capacities. CURT tends to score slightly higher in customer reviews and offers broader vehicle-specific fitment coverage. Reese has a longer brand history. For most SUV owners, CURT is the better choice due to fitment precision and finish quality.

What is the best hitch to stop trailer sway?

A weight distribution hitch with integrated sway control is the best solution for trailer sway. Every CURT Class III hitch in this guide is weight distribution compatible. Pair the receiver with a weight distribution system like the CURT True Track or Equal-i-zer for maximum stability with heavier trailers.

How much does it cost to have a hitch put on a SUV?

Professional hitch installation typically costs between $100 and $300 in labor depending on your location and vehicle complexity. The hitch itself ranges from $110 to $260 for the models in this guide. Many owners save the labor cost by installing it themselves with basic hand tools in under two hours.

Conclusion

The best trailer hitches for SUVs in 2026 all share three traits: vehicle-specific fitment, a Class III 2-inch receiver, and weight distribution compatibility. CURT dominates this category because their engineering team builds each hitch for a specific frame with precise hole alignment and a durable dual-coat finish.

For heavy towing, the CURT 13200 for the Toyota Highlander and the CURT 13472 for the Acura MDX and Honda Pilot both deliver 6,000 lb capacities. The CURT 13525 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee leads the pack at 7,500 lbs. For easy installation, nothing beats the 14-pound CURT 13493 for the Ford Bronco. And for the cleanest factory look, the CURT 13485 for the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage is tough to beat.

Match the hitch to your specific SUV model and year, verify your vehicle’s tow rating, and you will have a safe, reliable towing platform for years to come.

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