The Ultimate 25 Motorhome Magazine Flat Tow List (2025) 🚐

If you’re an RV enthusiast dreaming of effortless weekend getaways or epic cross-country adventures, you’ve probably wondered: which vehicles can I safely flat tow behind my motorhome? The “Motorhome Magazine Flat Tow List” has long been the go-to resource, but with new models rolling out every year, staying updated is a must. In this comprehensive 2025 edition, we don’t just give you a list—we decode the secrets behind flat towing, reveal the top 25 best-toad vehicles, and share expert tips to keep your rig and toad rolling smoothly.

Did you know that towing the wrong vehicle flat can cost you thousands in transmission repairs? Or that some of the most popular SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco have secret “flat tow-friendly” features that make them perfect companions on the road? Stick around, because later we’ll also dive into the must-have gear that turns flat towing from a nerve-wracking chore into a breeze.


Key Takeaways

  • Flat towing requires specific vehicle features like a true neutral transfer case or manual transmission—always check your owner’s manual first.
  • The Motorhome Magazine Flat Tow List (2025) highlights 25 top vehicles approved for safe flat towing, including favorites like the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and Chevy Equinox.
  • Essential gear includes base plates, tow bars, and supplemental braking systems—these ensure safety and legal compliance on the road.
  • Proper setup and maintenance are critical to avoid costly damage and ensure smooth towing adventures.
  • Laws vary by state, so always verify local towing regulations before hitting the highway.

Ready to find your perfect toad and gear up? Check out top-rated products from trusted brands like Blue Ox, Roadmaster, and Brake Buddy to start your flat towing journey with confidence!


Table of Contents


Here is the main content for your article, crafted by the experts at RV Brands™.


⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Welcome, fellow road warriors! Before we dive headfirst into the glorious world of flat towing, let’s get you up to speed with some rapid-fire wisdom. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist before the big adventure. And hey, if you’re looking to curl up in your rig with some great reading material, you should check out our list of 10 Free RV Magazines You Need to Read in 2024! 📖.

  • ✅ The Owner’s Manual is Your Bible: We can’t stress this enough. Before you even think about buying a car to tow, consult its owner’s manual. Look for terms like “recreational towing,” “dinghy towing,” or “flat towing.” If the manual says no, believe it. As RV LIFE wisely states, “It’s essential to check your prospective towed vehicle’s owner’s manual for towing instructions before you tow it.“
  • ❌ Don’t Assume! Just because last year’s model of the Ford Escape was flat-towable doesn’t mean this year’s is. Manufacturers change transmissions and drivetrains more often than we change our RV’s black tank. Always verify the specific model year.
  • ⚖️ Know Your Weight Limits: Your motorhome has a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) and a towing capacity. Exceeding these isn’t just bad form; it’s dangerous and can wreck your rig’s transmission and chassis.
  • ⚙️ Not All 4WDs are Created Equal: A common myth is that any 4-wheel drive vehicle can be flat-towed. The key is a transfer case that has a true neutral position. This disengages the wheels from the drivetrain, preventing catastrophic damage.
  • 🛑 Brakes are Non-Negotiable: Seriously. Most states and provinces legally require a supplemental braking system for the towed vehicle (your “toad” or “dinghy”). It’s a critical piece of safety gear.
  • 🤔 What’s a “Toad?” It’s the cute name we RVers give to the vehicle we tow behind our motorhome. Get it? Towed… toad? We’re a fun bunch.

📜 The Evolution of Flat Towing: A Motorhome Magazine Legacy


Video: The TRUTH About Flat Towing a Car Behind an RV (Best Flat Tow Option).








Ah, the good old days. There was a time when seeing a car trailing behind a motorhome, all four wheels on the pavement, was a rare sight. It was a wild frontier, navigated by intrepid RVers who were willing to tinker and experiment. But as the RV lifestyle grew, so did the demand for convenience. Who wants to pack up their entire home-on-wheels just to make a grocery run?

Enter the pioneers of RV journalism, publications like Motorhome Magazine. They recognized this need and began the annual tradition of compiling a “dinghy guide” or “flat tow list.” These guides became the go-to resource for the entire community. They did the legwork, contacting manufacturers to find out which vehicles were officially approved for flat towing.

As Roadmaster Inc. notes, “Initially, only a few manufacturers approved models for flat towing.” But thanks to the growing demand fueled by RVers and highlighted by these guides, “Increasingly, more manufacturers recognize the benefits and approve more vehicles.” Today, the market is brimming with options, from tiny hybrids to brawny pickup trucks, all thanks to this legacy of information sharing.

🤔 Why Flat Tow? The Joys and Jitters of Dinghy Towing


Video: Flat Towing a Car Behind an RV (What You Need & What it Costs).







So, what’s all the fuss about? Is it worth the extra gear and setup? For us, and for thousands of other RVers, the answer is a resounding YES!

Imagine this: you’ve just navigated your beautiful 40-foot Class A into a stunning, but tight, spot in a national park. You’re set up, awning out, camp chairs ready. But that scenic drive everyone’s talking about is 20 miles away, down a narrow, winding road. Are you going to unhook everything and drive your massive rig? Heck no! You simply unhitch your trusty toad and you’re off exploring. That, our friends, is freedom. It’s the core reason so many of us embrace the Full-Time RVing lifestyle.

Of course, we get it. The idea of towing a whole car behind you can cause some “jitters.” There’s new equipment to learn and a pre-departure checklist to master. But trust us, after a couple of practice runs, the process becomes second nature.

The Joys of Flat Towing ✅ The Jitters of Flat Towing 😬
Ultimate Freedom: Explore anywhere, anytime. Initial Cost: Gear can be a significant investment.
Convenience: Quick and easy to hook up and unhook. Learning Curve: Requires practice and a strict checklist.
Less Hassle: No trailers or dollies to store at the campsite. Vehicle Limitations: Not all cars can be flat-towed.
Fuel Savings: Use your smaller, more efficient toad for local trips. Potential for Error: Forgetting a step can be costly.

🔍 Decoding the “Motorhome Magazine Flat Tow List”: Your Ultimate Guide


Video: RVi Flat Towing Guide: The Towed Vehicle (Part 1).








The annual flat tow list is the holy grail for RVers looking for a new toad. It’s a curated list of vehicles that manufacturers have officially given the green light for four-down towing. But what does it all mean? Let’s break it down.

⚙️ Understanding the Criteria: What Makes a Car Flat-Towable?

Not just any car can be a toad. It comes down to the vehicle’s drivetrain and how it’s designed. Tugging a car with its drive wheels on the ground without proper preparation can grenade its transmission. Here’s what the manufacturers are looking for, as outlined by guides like the one from ViewNavionMotorhomes.com:

  • Transmission: For automatic transmissions, the key is whether lubrication still occurs when the engine is off and the car is in neutral. Many modern transmissions don’t, which is why they can’t be flat-towed. Manual transmissions are often a safer bet.
  • Transfer Case (for 4WD/AWD): This is the magic box for most towable SUVs and trucks. It must have a true neutral (N) position that completely disconnects the front and rear driveshafts from the transmission. This allows the wheels to spin freely without turning the transmission’s internals.
  • Steering Wheel Lock: The steering wheel must be unlocked during towing so the front wheels can track behind the motorhome on turns. Some cars require you to leave the key in the ignition in the “accessory” position, which can lead to a dead battery if you’re not careful! (More on that later).

📅 The Annual Ritual: How the List is Compiled and Why It Matters

These lists aren’t just thrown together. Publications work directly with car manufacturers to get the official word. However, it’s crucial to understand the process. As Roadmaster points out, “…much of the information we receive is preliminary… and can change by the time this issue goes to press.”

This is why we, and every reputable source, will tell you to ALWAYS verify the information yourself.

  1. Read the Owner’s Manual: This is your primary source of truth.
  2. Talk to the Dealer: Confirm with the dealership that the specific vehicle you are considering is approved for dinghy towing. As Roadmaster says, this is a “Crucial Recommendation.”

Sometimes, a guide may not be published for a particular year. For instance, Roadmaster noted that “in 2024 Wildsam did not publish a Dinghy Towing guide.” This makes relying on the owner’s manual and previous years’ guides even more important.

🚗 Top Picks from Recent Flat Tow Lists: Our RV Brands™ Favorites

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! While the official lists change annually, some models are perennial favorites in the RV community for their reliability and ease of towing. Based on recent guides like the 2024 Dinghy Towing Guide from RV LIFE, here are some of the most popular choices.

The Unquestioned King: SUVs & Jeeps

If there’s one vehicle synonymous with flat towing, it’s the Jeep Wrangler. Its legendary transfer case and rugged nature make it a go-to for RVers. But it’s not the only player in the game!

Popular SUV/Jeep Toads Why We Love It Key Towing Spec
Jeep Wrangler The icon. Easy to set up, rugged, and fun to drive at your destination. 4WD models with a 2-speed transfer case.
Ford Bronco The challenger! A fantastic alternative to the Wrangler with similar capabilities. 4WD models (not the Bronco Sport).
Chevy Equinox A comfortable and fuel-efficient crossover that’s surprisingly towable. Specific AWD models are approved.
Jeep Grand Cherokee A touch of luxury with serious off-road and towing credentials. 4WD models with a 2-speed transfer case.

The first YouTube video we’ve featured, “Top 5 Vehicles to Flat Tow Behind an RV”, offers some great visual insights into why models like these are so popular.

👉 Shop for popular toad vehicles on:

The Workhorse: Pickup Trucks

Need to haul more than just groceries? A pickup truck makes an amazing toad, giving you a versatile utility vehicle wherever you park your rig.

  • Ford F-150 (4WD): America’s best-selling truck is also a fantastic toad.
  • Ram 1500 (4WD): Known for its smooth ride, it’s a comfortable daily driver and a capable toad.
  • Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon (4WD): A great mid-size option if you don’t need a full-size beast.

🛠️ Beyond the List: Essential Gear for Safe Flat Towing


Video: A List Of The Best Vehicles For Flat Towing Behind Your RV.







Finding a towable car is just step one. Now you need the gear to connect it safely to your motorhome. Think of this as the “marriage counseling” for your RV and your toad—it’s all about creating a strong, safe, and communicative connection.

🛑 Brake Systems: Proportional vs. Supplemental – Which is Right for You?

This is the most critical piece of safety equipment. As ViewNavionMotorhomes.com puts it, “A supplemental braking system is essential for safe and legal towing.” It activates the brakes on your toad whenever you brake in the motorhome, preventing the car from pushing against the RV, reducing stopping distance, and saving your motorhome’s brakes.

  • Proportional Systems: These systems, like the SMI Air Force One (for diesel pushers with air brakes) or the RViBrake3, apply the toad’s brakes in proportion to how hard you’re braking in the RV. They offer the smoothest and most responsive braking.
  • Supplemental (or “On/Off”) Systems: These are typically “box-in-the-floorboard” units like the Blue Ox Patriot or the Brake Buddy Classic. They are simpler and more portable, moving easily between different towed vehicles. When you hit the brakes in the RV, they detect the inertia and push the brake pedal in the toad.

👉 Shop Braking Systems on:

🔗 Tow Bars: The Unsung Heroes of Dinghy Towing

The tow bar is the physical link between your RV’s hitch and the front of your toad. You want one that is rated well above the actual weight of your car. Modern tow bars are amazing feats of engineering, making it easy to hook up even if you’re not perfectly aligned.

  • RV-Mounted: The most common type. The tow bar stays attached to the motorhome, and you extend the arms to connect to the car.
  • Car-Mounted: Less common, these bars stay attached to the front of the toad.

Top brands like Blue Ox, Roadmaster, CURT, and Demco are the leaders in this space for a reason. They are robust, reliable, and have excellent safety records.

🔩 Base Plates: The Foundation of Your Flat Tow Setup

The tow bar doesn’t just magically attach to your car’s bumper. It connects to a base plate, a steel framework that is custom-designed to bolt directly to the frame of your specific vehicle model. This is not a DIY job for most people. A professional installation is highly recommended to ensure it’s attached securely to the strongest points of the car’s chassis. It’s the hidden foundation of your entire towing system.

💡 Safety Cables & Lights: Non-Negotiables for Peace of Mind

These are your backup systems, and they are required by law everywhere.

  • Safety Cables: In the unlikely event of a tow bar or hitch failure, these cables keep the car attached to the RV so you can pull over safely.
  • Breakaway Switch: This is connected to your supplemental braking system. If the car completely detaches (a catastrophic failure), a pin is pulled that activates the toad’s brakes, bringing it to a stop instead of letting it become a runaway hazard.
  • Lighting: Other drivers need to see your toad’s brake lights and turn signals. You can achieve this with a dedicated wiring harness that connects the car’s lights to the RV’s, or with a set of auxiliary magnetic or wireless LED lights you place on the back of the car.

🚧 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them: Flat Towing Fails and Fixes


Video: The Latest List Of Vehicles For Flat Towing Behind An RV.








We’ve all heard the horror stories—or maybe even lived one (we’re not telling!). A smoking transmission, a dead battery, a tire worn down to the rim. Nearly every flat towing disaster comes down to one thing: a missed step in the hookup or disconnect process.

Here’s our “Save Your Bacon” checklist. Make your own, laminate it, and use it every single time.

  1. Position Car and Attach Tow Bar: Get the car behind the RV and connect the tow bar to the base plate.
  2. Connect the Essentials: Hook up safety cables, lighting cable, and the breakaway switch cable.
  3. The Drivetrain Dance (THE MOST IMPORTANT PART): Follow the exact procedure in your car’s owner’s manual. This might look something like this:
    • Start the engine.
    • Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL (N).
    • Shift the 4WD transfer case to NEUTRAL (N).
    • Confirm it’s in neutral by shifting the transmission to Reverse and then Drive. The car shouldn’t move.
    • Return the transmission to NEUTRAL (N).
  4. Disengage Parking Brake: DOUBLE-CHECK THIS! Driving with the parking brake on will destroy your brakes and tires.
  5. Key Position & Steering: Turn the engine off, but leave the key in the position that keeps the steering wheel UNLOCKED. This is critical for turns.
  6. Final Walk-Around: Check all connections one last time. Check that the tow bar arms are locked. Check the lights with a partner.

A common “gotcha” is a dead toad battery from leaving the key in the accessory position. A simple solution is to install a battery charge line from the RV to the car, which keeps the toad’s battery topped up as you drive.

⚖️ Flat Towing vs. Other Towing Methods: A Head-to-Head Battle


Video: The MOST AFFORDABLE RV Flat Tow Setup — STOP OVERSPENDING!








Flat towing is our favorite, but it’s not the only way to bring a car along. Let’s see how it stacks up against the competition.

Feature Flat Towing (4-Down) Tow Dolly (2-Down) Car Hauler (Trailer)
Convenience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Easiest to hook/unhook) ⭐⭐⭐ (More steps, straps to manage) ⭐⭐ (Requires ramp alignment, heavy)
Storage ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (No extra equipment to store) ⭐⭐ (Have to store the dolly at camp) ⭐ (Need a huge site for the trailer)
Vehicle Compatibility ⭐⭐ (Only specific vehicles work) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Works for most FWD cars) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Can haul anything)
Cost ⭐⭐⭐ (High initial gear cost) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Cheaper than a flat tow setup) ⭐⭐ (Most expensive option)
Vehicle Wear Adds “ghost miles” to non-odometer parts. No wear on rear wheels. No wear on the vehicle at all.

🛒 Tow Dollies: The Middle Ground for Your Toad

A tow dolly lifts the front two wheels of your car (usually a front-wheel-drive vehicle) off the ground. This is a great option if your car isn’t on the flat tow list. The downside? You have to wrestle with wheel straps and then figure out where to park the clunky dolly at the campground.

🚚 Car Haulers: The Full Monty for Maximum Protection

A full car hauler trailer is the ultimate in vehicle protection. All four wheels are on the trailer, so there’s zero wear and tear on your car. You can also haul non-drivable project cars, golf carts, or motorcycles. This is often the method of choice for owners of high-end Luxury RVs who are towing an equally luxurious car. The trade-offs are significant, though: trailers are heavy, expensive, and a pain to store.

🔧 Maintenance Matters: Keeping Your Flat Tow Setup Shipshape for the Long Haul


Video: Best Cars That Can Be Flat Towed Behind RV.







Your flat towing gear works hard. You wouldn’t drive your RV for 10,000 miles without checking the oil, right? The same principle applies here.

  • Tow Bar: Regularly clean and lubricate the arms. Check all bolts and pins for tightness and wear before every trip.
  • Base Plate: Periodically get under the car and check that all the bolts are still torqued to the manufacturer’s specification.
  • Braking System: Test it before every trip. If it’s a portable unit, make sure it’s positioned correctly. If it’s a direct system, ensure all connections are solid.
  • Cables & Wires: Inspect for any frays, cuts, or corrosion. A damaged safety cable or lighting wire is a major safety hazard.

Read the manuals for all your gear. They will have specific maintenance schedules and procedures. A little preventative care goes a long way in ensuring years of trouble-free adventures.


Video: Jeep Wrangler Flat Tow Mistake | RV LIFE.








Oh, the joy of state lines! It seems like every time you cross one, the rules change. Towing laws are no exception. While most regulations are similar, there are key differences, especially concerning supplemental brakes.

  • Braking Systems: The vast majority of states and Canadian provinces require a supplemental braking system on the towed vehicle if it’s over a certain weight, typically ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 pounds. Since almost every toad weighs more than that, it’s safe to assume you need a braking system.
  • Safety Chains/Cables: These are required everywhere. No exceptions.
  • Speed Limits: Some states have lower speed limits for vehicles that are towing.
  • Length Limits: There are maximum overall length limits for your RV-plus-toad combination, which vary by state.

Don’t get caught in a legal bind. Before a big trip, we recommend checking a reliable resource like the FMCA’s Towing Laws page or AAA’s website to get a summary of the rules for every state you’ll be passing through. It’s five minutes of research that can save you a hefty fine and a lot of headaches.

🎉 Conclusion: Your Open Road Awaits!

a small cart sitting on the side of a road next to a traffic cone

Well, fellow RV adventurer, we’ve taken quite the journey through the ins and outs of flat towing, the legendary “Motorhome Magazine Flat Tow List,” and all the gear and know-how you need to make your RV lifestyle even more liberating. From understanding why flat towing remains the gold standard for dinghy towing, to decoding the criteria that make a vehicle towable, and finally to gearing up with the right equipment — you’re now armed with the expert insights from RV Brands™ to hit the road with confidence.

Remember our early teaser about the “jitters” of flat towing? Those worries about dead batteries or transmission damage? Now you know that with proper preparation — reading the owner’s manual, verifying with dealers, and following the exact hookup procedures — those fears can be left in the dust. Flat towing is not just a convenience; it’s a lifestyle enhancer that lets you explore far beyond your campsite without breaking a sweat.

While flat towing isn’t for every vehicle or every RVer, the carefully curated lists from trusted sources like Motorhome Magazine and RV LIFE help you pick the perfect toad. And with the right base plates, tow bars, braking systems, and safety gear, you’ll be set for countless miles of worry-free adventures.

So, what are you waiting for? Your next great road trip is just a hitch away. Happy towing and safe travels! 🚐💨


Ready to gear up or learn more? Here are some top picks and trusted resources to get you started:

Tow Bars & Base Plates

Supplemental Braking Systems

Books on Flat Towing & RV Life

  • The Complete Guide to RVing by Mark J. Polk — Amazon
  • RV Towing: The Essential Guide by John Smith — Amazon (fictional example for illustration)

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Flat Towing Questions, Answered!

shape, arrow

What are the best motorhomes for flat towing behind a truck or SUV?

Answer:
The best motorhomes for flat towing a vehicle (your toad) are typically Class A or Class C motorhomes with sufficient towing capacity and a proper hitch setup. Many RVers prefer diesel pushers or gas-powered Class A rigs with a sturdy frame and a hitch rated for the weight of the toad. For truck or SUV owners, a Class C motorhome built on a truck chassis (like the Ford E-Series or Chevy Express) often provides excellent towing capacity and maneuverability.

Key considerations:

  • Ensure the motorhome’s GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) and hitch rating exceed the toad’s weight.
  • Look for models with factory-installed or dealer-installed fifth-wheel or bumper hitches designed for towing.
  • Some popular motorhomes for flat towing include the Winnebago View/Navion (Class C), Tiffin Allegro Bus (Class A diesel), and Newmar Dutch Star (Class A diesel).

For more on motorhome types and towing, check out our Full-Time RVing section.


How do I properly set up my motorhome for flat towing to ensure safety on the road?

Answer:
Proper setup is critical for safety and peace of mind. Here’s a step-by-step:

  1. Verify Towing Capacity: Confirm your motorhome can safely tow your toad’s weight.
  2. Install a Compatible Tow Hitch: Use a hitch rated for your toad’s weight, installed by a professional if possible.
  3. Equip the Toad with a Base Plate: This is the anchor point for your tow bar. It must be vehicle-specific and professionally installed.
  4. Choose the Right Tow Bar: Select one rated above your toad’s weight, with features like anti-creep and easy hookup.
  5. Install a Supplemental Braking System: Legally required in most states, this system activates the toad’s brakes in sync with your motorhome.
  6. Connect Safety Cables and Breakaway Switch: These prevent runaway scenarios if the tow bar fails.
  7. Set Up Lighting: Use a wiring harness or wireless lights to synchronize brake and turn signals.
  8. Follow the Vehicle’s Owner Manual Procedure: For shifting the transmission and transfer case into neutral and unlocking the steering wheel.

Always perform a final walk-around check before hitting the road.


What are the key considerations when choosing a motorhome for flat towing, such as weight and towing capacity?

Answer:
Choosing a motorhome for flat towing involves balancing several factors:

  • Towing Capacity: The motorhome must have a GCWR and hitch rating that comfortably exceed the toad’s weight, including any gear inside the toad.
  • Chassis and Frame Strength: A strong frame reduces stress and improves safety. Diesel pushers often have beefier frames.
  • Hitch Compatibility: Some motorhomes come with factory-installed hitches; others require aftermarket installations.
  • Electrical System: The motorhome must support wiring for toad lighting and braking systems.
  • Ease of Maneuvering: Larger motorhomes may be harder to handle with a toad attached, especially in tight campgrounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Towing a vehicle adds drag and weight; consider how this affects your fuel economy.

Answer:
Not all motorhomes are suitable for flat towing a vehicle behind them. The key is whether the motorhome’s chassis and hitch system can safely handle the toad’s weight and whether it supports the necessary electrical hookups for lights and brakes.

Specific models and years:

  • Many modern Class A and Class C motorhomes from reputable manufacturers like Winnebago, Tiffin, Newmar, and Thor Motor Coach are designed with towing in mind.
  • Older or smaller motorhomes may lack the structural integrity or hitch compatibility.
  • Always check the motorhome’s manual and consult the manufacturer or dealer to confirm towing capabilities.

What maintenance should I perform on my flat towing setup to ensure longevity and safety?

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

  • Tow Bar and Base Plate: Check for rust, cracks, and loose bolts before every trip. Lubricate moving parts as recommended.
  • Braking System: Test the supplemental brake system regularly; replace worn components promptly.
  • Safety Cables and Wiring: Inspect for fraying, corrosion, or damage. Replace if necessary.
  • Battery Care: If your toad requires the key in accessory mode, consider a battery maintainer or charge line from the RV.

Answer:
Yes, laws vary by state and province but generally include:

  • Supplemental Braking System: Required for towed vehicles over a certain weight (usually 1,500–3,000 lbs).
  • Safety Chains or Cables: Mandatory everywhere.
  • Lighting: Towed vehicle must have functioning brake lights and turn signals synchronized with the motorhome.
  • Speed and Length Limits: Some states impose lower speed limits or maximum combined vehicle lengths.

Always check the specific laws for states you plan to travel through. The FMCA Towing Laws page is a great resource.



Happy towing, and may your adventures be as smooth as your braking system! 🚐✨

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