Comparing Curt and etrailer Class III Trailer Hitches for a 2017 Kia Sportage

Updated 01/15/2021 | Published 07/05/2016

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(94)

$170.35

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$93.56

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(342)

$190.51

Curt Powered Tail Light Converter w/ 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector and Install Kit

(141)

$164.98

Question:

HiIt looks like Curt requires a strap when carrying a bike rack while etrailer doesnt. Is there any substantial difference in how the hitch is installed or in how stable one is vs. the other? Also, Im wondering if one hitch would be more hidden by the bumper than the other.

asked by: Tim B

Expert Reply:

If you will be using the trailer hitch for an accessory such as a bike rack or cargo carrier than I recommend the etrailer hitch # e72TR because it does not have the stabilization strap requirement for non-trailer loads like the Curt, # C13281. It also costs less. In fact, even if you were towing I would still recommend the etrailer hitch because it is at a better price point.

While the designs of these 2 hitches are a little different how and where they install is about the same. I have linked the installation instructions for each for you. I have also included a side by side picture showing the hitches installed. You can see that they both appear about the same and the only part showing for either is the receiver.

If you plan on doing some towing I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

And for trailer wiring you can use # C59496 to add a 4-Way flat connector to the rear of the vehicle.

expert reply by: Michael H

click to enlarge

Philip G.

1/12/2021

I have the 2017 Turbo, with duel exhaust, is that going to be a problem for installation of either hitch ?

Jon G.

1/15/2021

These hitches are designed to fit all models. I looked through some of the reviews sent in and found some photos of where they were installed on models with dual exhaust just to verify.

Helpful Links

hitch-2017_kia_sportage.htm