MacGregorSailors.com

Thanks for all the advice. I notice that Dannie is towing a X with a Nissan Murano without any problems. Dannie, how far to you normally tow? Do you go over any hills, highways? Any issues with swaying?

I did a comparison between the Nissan Murano and Lexus RX300 (my present SUV) and it is pretty close:

Murano RX300
Wheelbase: 111.2 103.1
Gross Weight 5051 4950
HP 245 220
Torque 246 222

Also, I talked to the Macgregor dealer in Seattle and they thought that towing with my RX300 would be OK for short distances (they wouldn't recommend towing to California), but it also really depends on how comfort I feel. I think at this point, I think will try with the RX300 (unless someone has a really bad experience doing this with an RX300 and would like to share their story). If it becomes a problem than I will look at changing SUVs. Next step is to figure out when I will buy a M(but that is another discussion altogether).

I have only had my 26X for a few months and the longest tow was about 60 miles and I felt no issues. I did pay the big bucks and get the factory hitch, not the 1-2 hour U-Haul system. It took the Nissan deal all day lots of frame hardware and mounting plates to change but it fits really nice and close. If I did longer towings I would just get a second axle added to the current trailer. I am sure bigger is better but you have to work within your budget.
Plus the variable drive of the Murano has lots of power and torque range

I tow my 26M with my 1999 Isuzu Trooper (this is the older model, before they started using the current GMC frame).

It's a beefy vehicle with 3.5 Liter V-6 (tow rating 5000#). I added an after-market transmission oil cooler when I bought the Mac. Huge inside. If you're looking for a 3rd vehicle as a dedicated tow vehicle, you can find one of these pretty cheap. Admittedly, they are not so luxurious inside, but mine is comfortable and the gear I carry in the back stays a lot drier than it would in the back of a pick-up.

- Andy