Difference In Factory Lifestyle Hitch And Frame Mounted Hitch 2021 Kia Seltos

Published 01/21/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(85)

$237.63

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(164)

$102.89

Question:

what is the difference between a lifestyle hitch that came on our new 2021 Kia Seltos and a class 1 Hitch that you sell? the lifestyle hitch is bolted to the car - can it tow a small boat?

asked by: Deb

Expert Reply:

The biggest difference between a frame mounted hitch and a factory accessory (lifestyle) hitch that is on your 2021 Kia Seltos, is a hitch such as the Curt Trailer Class 1 Hitch Receiver Item # C65FR provides a maximum gross tow rating of up to 2,000 pounds. It also has a tongue weight rating of 200 pounds. The tongue rating is the amount of weight or force that will be loaded downward onto the hitch.

Kia states that although the accessory or lifestyle hitch has a tongue weight rating of 220 pounds, it is NOT for towing. It is an added feature to allow owners to mount a hitch mounted bike rack, cargo carrier, or other hitch mounted accessories within its weight capacities.

If your main goal is to tow a light trailer, I also suggest the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Item # C89KR that will allow basic trailer light functions to tow safely with your vehicle.

Just keep in mind if you are planning to tow a small boat, that it does not exceed the gross tow rating of the vehicle or the frame mounted hitch.

expert reply by: Andrew J