Question:
Im looking at the Draw-Tite and Curt trailer hitches for my 2016 Mazda 3 Hatch i-Touring. I am not sure what is meant by Vehicle Style or what the difference is and how to know which applies to my vehicle. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
asked by: Brian
Expert Reply:
When it comes to "Vehicle Style" in our fit guide, there are 4 options in the drop down menu for a 2016 Mazda 3 - "Hatchback - with LED Taillights", "Hatchback - without LED Taillights", "Sedan - with LED Taillights", and ""Sedan - without LED Taillights". Since you mentioned your Mazda was a Hatch i-Touring, that narrows things down to the pair of hatchback options.
Choosing either one of those options from the drop down menu will bring you to the two available hitches, the Draw-Tite # 24914 and Curt # C11377. When you go to the product page for either hitch, it will have text that says "Confirmed to Fit" next to a green checkmark, and will list the vehicle style it fits. Each hitch is going to fit your 2016 Mazda 3 hatchback with or without LED lights, so you have the option of either.
I strongly recommend going with the Draw-Tite # 24914 because the Curt hitch is going to require the use of stabilizing straps # 18050 with all non-trailer accessories such as bike racks and cargo carriers in order to maintain the warranty. I've added a link to a demonstration video which shows you how the straps are used.
If you plan on doing some towing, you would need to add a 4-flat harness # HM11141824, and the recommended ball mount is Draw-Tite # 3593, along with either 1-7/8" hitch ball # 19256 or 2" hitch ball # 19258.
I've added links to a couple video reviews for you to take a look at as well.
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs
Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitch - 2-1/8" Rise, 2-3/4" Drop - 6-5/8" Long - 2K
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
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