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There isn't a big debate if the OE hitches aren't available, IMO.
If the OE receiver is not available, I would use a receiver that has the torque beam running fore and aft, as in your Curt reference diagram. Several aftermarket hitches use variations of that design to resist bending moments on the receiver, and the early aftermarket hitch failures were all in bending. When they failed, the receiver was left pointing down at 30 degrees or so. None of them had that torque beam. It was added in later in response to the early failures. I don't think it looks great, but I think it is structurally solid.
If I had a choice, I would use an aftermarket hitch that attaches at the location of the bumper shock struts and not on the cross bar as shown in your reference. I suppose it is OK there, but that beam isn't designed to resist fore and aft forces like the shock strut location is.
I don't think it matters who makes it. Curt, Hidden Hitch, U Haul, and others have all sold versions of each of the above, it seems. I think they buy batches from sub suppliers from time to time and put their own label on them. Also, what they post on a web site might not be what they ship to you, so suggest you confirm with the seller.
I recommend you purchase the OE electrical interface whichever receiver you purchase. ECS had it listed last time I looked; not sure if they still do. It gives you the automatic rear PDC defeat when a trailer is connected, avoids any risk of problems with the LCM, and enables the Trailer Stability Control mode included in the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system.
Good luck
Jeff
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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
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