What's The Difference Between the Two Hitches That Fit The 2018 Lexus RX 450h

Published 01/23/2026

Question:

I have a 2018 Lexus RX 450 H and I’m having trouble deciding on which hitch to use. C73DR Appears to be a newer model. with less weight capacity., while the C13282 appears to be an older hitch, but made specific for the 450 H. I am more concerned with overall concealed look and ground clearance, then weight capacity.. would I have to permanently lower the exhaust on the C 73DR ? What would your recommendation based on what I’m looking for?

asked by: Enrique Q

Expert Reply:

Hey, Enrique.

Ground clearance wise between the two hitches is going to be exactly the same, 16". There are a few differences between the hitch, so I'll go over them.

The cross tube for the Curt hitch part # C13282 sits further back behind the bumper which leads to needing to lower the exhaust during the install, and do some trimming to the underbody panels/fascia. Once installed you can mount the exhaust back into location. You also do mention that this hitch is specific to the RV 450H, you are correct, this hitch ONLY fits that model where as the other one fits the RX 450H and the RX 350.

Curt hitch part # C73DR is going to sit closer to the bumper and is designed so that you don't have to lower the exhaust for the install or do any trimming to the underbody panels/fascia.

The # C13282 does use 3 bolts preside where as the # C73DR only uses 2. I imagine that is why the first hitch has a slightly higher capacity than the second. Since capacity isn't a concern for you, I'd go with Curt hitch # C73DR. If you're going to be installing yourself, it will be a much easier hitch to install.

There are two pictures below showing what I mean about where the hitch mounts in

One last thing to note is both of these hitches will NOT fit if you have an F Sport. Currently there is no hitch out on the market that can.

What are you needing to use the hitch for?