Recommended Transmission Cooler and Hitch for 2019 Kia Sorento LX V6 2WD

Updated 11/20/2020 | Published 11/19/2020

Products Featured in This Question

EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(87)

$375.64

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(867)

$92.17

etrailer 2-3/4" Rise or 4" Drop Ball Mount Kit - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$109.63

Question:

I believe my cars towing capacity is 3,500 lbs since it does not have the All Wheel Drive option. So, my questions are: 1 how heavy of a pop-up trailer can I tow if I plan to take it across country with my wife and two dogs? 2 Should I add a transmission cooler to the car? 3 I assume Ill want a Class III hitch. Which one do you recommend?

asked by: Bob N

Expert Reply:

The maximum towing capacity is determined by the lower of the weight capacities for your vehicle and the hitch that is installed on it. So if the weight capacity of your vehicle is lower, that will be the limiting factor. The towing capacity won't be changed by the weight of any passengers or cargo in your tow vehicle.

According to the owner's manual for your 2019 Kia Sorento, if you have the 2.4L or 3.3L engine without trailer brakes, you can tow up to 1,650 lbs, or 2,000 lbs with trailer brakes. If you have a 3.3L engine with the trailer package, you can tow up to 3,500 lbs with 2WD or 5,000 lbs with 4WD.

If you are towing anything, a transmission cooler is always a good idea. Basically, your transmission fluid can never be over-cooled, so any additional cooling is a good idea, especially if you are pushing your vehicle transmission harder by towing a trailer. I recommend something like the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit # D13502. This is a Class III transmission cooler that measures 11" wide x 7-1/4" tall x 7/8" deep. Make sure to select a proper mounting location and make sure there is enough space before selecting a transmission cooler.

For a trailer hitch for your vehicle, I recommend the EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver # 306-X7326. This is the highest weight capacity hitch for your vehicle at 2,000 lbs and has a 2" hitch receiver. Note that this could limit your vehicle's towing weight capacity if the hitch is lower than your vehicle's capacity. To tow a trailer, you will also need a ball mount. I recommend our etrailer 2-3/4" Rise or 4" Drop Ball Mount Kit # EBMK4. This fits a 2" hitch receiver and comes with both 1-7/8" and 2" hitch balls.

Check out the videos linked below for more details on these products.