Quote:
|
Originally Posted by naka
Based on information from the Global website, the 4.8i and the 3.5d could potentially tow 7,700 lbs.
But here in the US, BMWNA only offers a Class III hitch which significantly limits the amount of weight tolerances when towing.
Looking in the market for other competitors AWD 7-seaters towing capacities, I found:
The Mercedez Benz GL320 offers 7,700 lb capacity.
The Audi Q7 pulls 6600 lbs.
As this is supposed to be a UTILITY vehicle, which for me, means a car I can use to carry a big family with cargo (7 seater), run long commutes (diesel), drive in the winter (AWD and higher ground clearance), and tow a heavy trailer (enclosed car trailer), I'm afraid I'll have to look somewhere else.
Shame. Because it's all down to an optional hitch, not the vehicle itself.
|
Class III doesn't define a 6000 lb limit, BMW does. Hitch ratings are imprecise, and Class III hitches are available for various vehicles with 5000, 6000, or up to 10,000 lb ratings. It is a BMW limitation in this case.
Just an aside, but BMW doesn't advertise this as a utility vehicle. They like to call it a Sport Activity Vehicle, perhaps acknowledging that the utility aspect is somewhat limited at times.
Given you requirements for 7 passengers and luggage (all at the same time), and higher ground clearance, you may find that a Suburban or a Ford with a diesel fits your needs better than a BMW, which doesn't attempt to fill that market requirement.
__________________
2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White
Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue
|