Recommended Hitches for a 2014 Prius and a 2017 Mazda 6

Updated 02/12/2023 | Published 02/11/2023

Products Featured in This Question

EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(115)

$390.67

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2621)

$16.53

2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs

(2621)

$18.47

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

(721)

$161.10

Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitch - 2-1/8" Rise, 2-3/4" Drop - 6-5/8" Long - 2K

(2328)

$33.46

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

(138)

$180.88

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(231)

$59.66

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(9)

$57.16

Yakima Rack and Roll Trailer - 78"

(82)

$2598.95

Question:

Hi, I just bought a 2016 Yakima 78” Rack and Roll trailer off Craigslist that’s still in box. I’ll be using it to haul whitewater kayaks that are very light. I have a 2017 Mazda 6 and a 2014 Toyota Prius. What would be best tow vehicle and best tow hitch for each. I want this project to be as cheap and easy as possible. I use both cars to haul my boats now. Thanks!

asked by: Steve D

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since you're wanting to save some money I would recommend going with 1-1/4" hitches for both vehicles. This will allow you to use the same ball mount and the Yakima Rack an Roll Trailer item # Y08107 is well under both hitches capacities. The 2" hitches for both vehicles are pricey and you won't need them with your current set up. The installation process on the 2" hitches is also complicated and way more involved than the 1-1/4" options.

For your 2014 Toyota Prius, I recommend the Draw-Tite Hitch item # 24847. This hitch is custom fit and has a class I 1-1/4" receiver that has a 2,000 lbs towing capacity. You will also need a wiring harness to control your trailer's lighting functions. The Curt T-Connector item # C56147 is a custom fit harness that plugs into existing wiring behind your tail lights.

For your 2017 Mazda 6, you will want the Curt Trailer Hitch item # C11356 and the Curt T-Connector item # C56280.

For a ball mount you'll need the Draw-Tite Drawbar item # 3593 and then for hitch balls item # 19258 for a 2 inch ball or item # 19256 for a 1-7/8 inch ball.

I have linked a couple of installation videos below.