Why Class 3 Trailer Hitch For 2025 Kia Sportage

Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/02/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(382)

$232.60

Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(1670)

$73.55

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

(786)

$216.97

Question:

1 Why do you recommend Class 3 hitches for the Kia Sportage when the cars maximum towing weight is under 2000 pounds. A Class 2 should certainly handle it. 2 Also, in the installation directions for the C59236 wiring harness, when it discusses determining the vehicle wiring type, under Wire Probing Voltage on Vehicle Wires it says things like only PS signal activated or only DS signal activated. What do PS and DS mean? 3 Some installation instructions for running the power wire to the battery say to disconnect the battery's negative terminal before attempting to add a ring connector to +12v. The hybrid has no 12v battery per se. it only has a 12v fuse box that somehow extracts 12v from the high voltage traction battery. So I don't believe there is any negative terminal to disconnect. My vehicle: 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid EX

asked by: Brian W

Expert Reply:

Hey Brian,

So the reason to go with a Class III hitch for a 2025 Kia Sportage is that's actually the only class hitch that fits; you're right a Class II would suffice for towing if they were made, but the only options are the Class III etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e38KR or Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C94WR.

These are essentially the same hitch, with the only difference being the matte black finish of the etrailer hitch, but these hitches are mostly hidden under the bumper so I'd just go with whichever has the better price.

As for DS and PS on the Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C59236, that refers to the driver side and passenger side.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Jesse M.

12/22/2025

Hey Brian, how did things go with the Curt hitch and wiring harness on your Sportage Hybrid? Your setup could really help others working with the same hybrid system. Sharing what worked might guide someone else tackling this install.