Towing w/2013 Nissan Xterra S

[Teddys R-Pod]

We're going to test drive a 2013 Nissan Xterra S tomorrow. We want to use it to tow our 2016 R-Pod 178. I want to hear from people that are towing small trailers with this particular year and trim if possible, but any advice is much appreciated!!
Our vehicle needs are:
-less than $15k
-5+ seats
-capable of towing 5000lbs

[RedLdr1]

Welcome to the forum. The potential issue I see is Cargo Payload capacity. Looking at the Xterra specs on Google it shows 974 to 1,061 pounds. I suspect that depending on model and options so look at the door sticker carefully and get the real capacity of the truck you're considering. Even at the best case of 1,061 pounds that is going to be really tight. The unloaded hitch weight of a 178 is 268 pounds, loaded that is probably closer to 350 pounds.

So 1,061 minus the estimated hitch weight of 350 pounds = 711 pounds. That isn't much capacity left over for five passengers unless they are really small kids. Or for anything stored in the back of the SUV. I think you are really close to overloading a Xterra. Depending on where you live it could be a real challenge driving in mountainous areas even with the 4.0L V-6.

I'd look for something with more cargo capacity, at least 1,500 pounds, based on the info you supplied.

[bikendan]

I almost bought a Xterra for a tow vehicle. But after doing a lot of research and looking at the specs, I quickly dropped it from contention. And I really love the Xterra but it has too many negatives for towing.
High center of gravity, short wheelbase and low payload capacity were the biggest negatives.
As a surfer and mtn biker, I get the attraction and it's a great choice for those kind of things.
But not for towing.

[Teddys R-Pod]

Originally Posted by RedLdr1

Welcome to the forum. The potential issue I see is Cargo Payload capacity. Looking at the Xterra specs on Google it shows 974 to 1,061 pounds. I suspect that depending on model and options so look at the door sticker carefully and get the real capacity of the truck you're considering. Even at the best case of 1,061 pounds that is going to be really tight. The unloaded hitch weight of a 178 is 268 pounds, loaded that is probably closer to 350 pounds.

So 1,061 minus the estimated hitch weight of 350 pounds = 711 pounds. That isn't much capacity left over for five passengers unless they are really small kids. Or for anything stored in the back of the SUV. I think you are really close to overloading a Xterra. Depending on where you live it could be a real challenge driving in mountainous areas even with the 4.0L V-6.

I'd look for something with more cargo capacity, at least 1,500 pounds, based on the info you supplied.

Thank you!

[Teddys R-Pod]

Originally Posted by bikendan

I almost bought a Xterra for a tow vehicle. But after doing a lot of research and looking at the specs, I quickly dropped it from contention. And I really love the Xterra but it has too many negatives for towing.
High center of gravity, short wheelbase and low payload capacity were the biggest negatives.
As a surfer and mtn biker, I get the attraction and it's a great choice for those kind of things.
But not for towing.

Thank you! Does anyone have any opinions on a 2011 GC Laredo? It has a higher GVWR at 6500lbs

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by Teddys R-Pod

Thank you! Does anyone have any opinions on a 2011 GC Laredo? It has a higher GVWR at 6500lbs

Not without its specs. Engine size, 4x4 or not, factory tow package or not, rear axle ratio, payload sticker amount.

[moose074]

Originally Posted by bikendan

Not without its specs. Engine size, 4x4 or not, factory tow package or not, rear axle ratio, payload sticker amount.

I think op is looking for someone that has these or towed with these vehicles. Vehicle probably not in their possession.

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by moose074

I think op is looking for someone that has these or towed with these vehicles. Vehicle probably not in their possession.

I get that but they should be able to get some info, from the seller.

[Teddys R-Pod]

Thank you for your help bikendan!


I took a picture of the sticker inside the drivers door but I do not see a curb weight. Where is this information? Google tells me it is 4660lbs empty. So 6500-4660-300(tongue)=1540 payload? Is that correct? It is 4x4, factory tow package, 3.6L VVT V6 flex-fuel engine, and 3.09 axle ratio.


https://www.midwestautostore.com/inv...rr4gg2bc717535

[Tom911]

Lots of Chevy, Dodge 1500's and F150's that can haul 5 and be bought for under 15k.

[Teddys R-Pod]

Originally Posted by Tom911

Lots of Chevy, Dodge 1500's and F150's that can haul 5 and be bought for under 15k.

Thank you! After these responses and reading other threads, we've decided a v8 is really what we want. Looking into Sierra 1500's and the like, now.

[RedLdr1]

Originally Posted by Teddys R-Pod

Looking into Sierra 1500's and the like, now.

There are "Cowboy Cadillac's" pick ups that have a very low payload. Make sure you check the listed payload on the door sticker.

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by RedLdr1

There are "Cowboy Cadillac's" pick ups that have a very low payload. Make sure you check the listed payload on the door sticker.

Yep, the ones with the fancy bling trim levels, will have lower payloads.
Payload stickers aren't a replacement for actually weighing the vehicle loaded. But it's a starting place since you can't weigh a vehicle that you don't own yet.

[TheWolfPaq82]

Originally Posted by RedLdr1

There are "Cowboy Cadillac's" pick ups that have a very low payload. Make sure you check the listed payload on the door sticker.

A 1500 Sierra and a R-Pod ? I don't think there is going to be any problem there.

[mcarter]

Me either. Towed my Pod with 2 different C1500 Silverados and a Colorado, come on man. None of which didn't meet payload above a beyond a Pod.

[Teddys R-Pod]

Ended up with a 2012 Nissan Armada [emoji7] [emoji7] [emoji7] We'll use it to tow for the first time this weekend.

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by Teddys R-Pod

Ended up with a 2012 Nissan Armada [emoji7] [emoji7] [emoji7] We'll use it to tow for the first time this weekend. Attachment 208494

Great choice! Now go have fun.[emoji847]