What is the Difference Between Curt and Towsmart Hitches for a 2025 Kia Sportage

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Question:

Curt vs Towsmart: C94WR vs TS96VR for 2022+ KIA Sportage/Hyundai Tucson. What is the difference between them? They look exactly same, but they have different ratings. Is it a mistake or Curt is underrated? Please let me know at your convenience.

asked by: Piotr P

0

Expert Reply:

Hey Piotr, thanks for reaching out!

The weight ratings between the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C94WR and Towsmart Trailer Hitch Receiver # TS96VR that fit your 2025 Kia Sportage are determined by the testing done according to those manufacturers. I don't know the details of it (and the manufacturers rarely go into the details), but what I can say is that in this case it actually ends up being more of a moot point because even the lower 3,500 lb rating of the Curt is well over what Kia and Hyundai have rated those vehicles to tow.

I believe Curt tends to be a bit more conservative with their weight ratings because they'd rather be on the safe side of things than to have the highest weight rating, if that makes sense.

I personally like the Curt brand more just because they've been in the business a really long time and have a really reliable name (they actually compete with Draw-Tite to be the "U-Haul" hitch each year) so I recommend going that route, but ultimately there isn't a wrong decision here - both options will give you a safe towing experience.

I'm attaching installation videos as well as photos of each hitch installed on a 2025 Sportage for you to check out!

expert reply by: Jon G

0

Towsmart Hitch on a 2025 Kia Sportage
(click to enlarge)

Curt Hitch on a 2025 Kia Sportage
(click to enlarge)

Jon G.

10/30/2025

Hey Piotr, how did things turn out with the Curt hitch on your Sportage? Did the fit and towing performance meet your expectations? Your update could make it easier for others comparing these two hitches.

Piotr P.

10/30/2025

@JonG Hard to compare as I purchased Curt (no Towsmart on my hand). The fit was OK, except the need to heavily trim the cover in the middle section of the bumper cover. I wanted to keep the look as OEM as possible and I had to cut a lot from the cover. It took multiple attempts. Other than that the install went smoothly. I did not do much of towing, but enough to say it holds very well.

Jon G.

10/30/2025

@PiotrP I definitely get what you're saying about the fascia trimming. Most modern vehicles outside of trucks unfortunately have a lot of fascia to help make the vehicle look more slick, which results in the trimming for a hitch receiver to fit. I'm glad it's holding up well for you!

Answer 1

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

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Answer 5

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What is the Difference Between Curt and Towsmart Hitches for a 2025 Kia Sportage

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