[Groesbeck Hurricane]

Ben,

Think long wheelbase for your tow vehicle, it will be steadier and more capable of controlling your load. Make sure your vehicle is FACTORY equipped with the towing package. This will include sturdier springs, factory tow bar, electrical wiring, transmission intercooler (VERY necessary for distances more than a few miles). I suggest electric brakes instead of a load activated trailer brake (one that is attached to the hitch and brakes when the trailer gets closer to your vehicle, this is not the break away brake which is for a runaway trailer), these types of brakes are required by law in most states for loads over 3,000 pounds.

Just because it is an SUV does not mean it is capable of towing. Go to the manufacturer's web sites and check on the maximum towing capacities in several different situations. I know the Nissan claims to be able to tow 9,000 pounds, but that is on a straight road with all proper equipment installed at the factory. Get on a hilly road and the load capacity goes way down.

I use a Ford F250 Diesel with a 3.73 rear end and factory towing package but I tow loads approaching 11,000 pounds. For our smaller loads we used to use a Chevy 1/2 tonne, 5.7 liter with a 3.73 rear end. The 4.10 is a great rear end, but gets lousy fuel economy so there is always a trade off.

I think the Nissan and Toyota have a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and on "average" terrain (not flat). Don't know about the others.