Are There Advantages to Hidden Trailer Hitch for 2017 Toyota Prius

Updated 06/19/2020 | Published 06/17/2020

Products Featured in This Question

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

(721)

$161.10

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

(168)

$156.63

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

(189)

$164.38

Question:

I have a 2017 Prius III Touring. Wondering what the advantages and disadvantage of the two types of installations. I see this gets 3 of 10 for install vs. 10 of 10 for the other model. Is there any benefit to getting the one that is harder to put on? Thank you.

asked by: Marc

Expert Reply:

The biggest advantage the trailer hitch receivers with a hidden crosstube have is the aesthetic, as they are otherwise very similar. A lot of people don't like having the crosstube visible so they choose the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11473 or Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 24966; they want the cleaner look on their Prius, like in the accompanying photo of the Curt hitch on a '17 Prius.

The advantage to the visible crosstube hitch, the Draw-Tite # 24847, is limited to the easier install, as you mentioned. So if you want the easiest install and don't mind the crosstube sticking down, you can go with that. If it were my '17 Prius, I would install the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11473.

This has the best ground and bumper clearances of the hitches that fit your Prius only having the small receiver visible is a bonus if the installation is something you want to attempt, or even pay a local mechanic to do. I have added a link to a video install for you to check out as well of the Curt hitch on a '17 Prius.

expert reply by: Kyle S