What are the Differences Among the Class II Hitches Available for a 2009 Toyota RAV 4

Updated 07/29/2010 | Published 07/28/2010

Products Featured in This Question

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

(259)

$184.13

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(211)

$180.98

Question:

l see several hitch choices for class 2. Please advise which is the best choice. 2009 RAV4 4 cylinder

asked by: Philip

Expert Reply:

None of the Class II hitches for your 2009 RAV 4 are superior to another, but there are some differences between them they may help you make your decision.

Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch are sister companies and the Draw-Tite, part # 36588, and Hidden Hitch, part # 90207 (no longer available), are the same design. The difference between these two hitches is that the Hidden Hitch includes some extra accessories. The Hidden Hitch model includes a draw bar and pin and clip that you would need if you were doing some towing. If you are going to only use the hitch for a bike rack or cargo carrier, the Draw-Tite would save you some money.

Now, there are some bigger differences with the Curt hitch, part # C12108. The Curt hitch uses a round tube for the cross bar. It will not perform differently than the square tube of the Draw-Tite or Hidden Hitch. Curt also uses a high-gloss powder coat finish for their hitches, whereas the others use a more matte finish. The final difference is that the Curt offers a 350 pound tongue weight capacity whereas the Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch are limited to 300 pounds. This may not make a difference in your application.

All 3 of the hitches will install the same way and should take about 30 minutes for someone with basic mechanic tools and skills.

expert reply by: Patrick B