RAV4 Hybrid

In the same situation myself but not sure as it didn't impress in the recent Practical Caravan towcar awards!!

I have not been impressed by any of the New Generation Hybrids as tow cars yet.  I don't think that the development of such vehicles has reached the right level yet.

When the industry gets around to cleaning up the 2.5 to 3 litre plus band, used by the large white delivery vans, then we might start to see some decent new tow vehicles.  Until then its the strong diesel for me.

Have just changed by beloved ML300CDI for an ML350CDI.    I just couldn't face the issues that seem to accompany each of the hybrids that I tried.  They all had either low range (miles) Low power, Low nose weight or low maximum permitted tow limit.

I want to know that whatever weight that I might be towing, my vehicle can cope.  That it can do at least 500 miles between fill ups (Solo) and a minimum of 400 miles towing heavy van.  I want absolute confidence that it will tow my van confidently up a steep wet ferry ramp, and that it will have total reliability .  When and only then, will I consider buying a Hybrid.

TF

The RAV 4 hybrid is a 2.5 petrol and satisfies the criteria set out by tigerfish.

i've had mine for almost a year and find it much more comfortable as a tow car than my previous car which was a manual diesel estate.

But check out the TOY reports and its still not ready for heavy duty towing.  Its got a reasonable engine but sadly not matched with an & out stable chassis for confident towing under all conditions.

I will stick with my heavy and stable 3 litre V6 until a proper alternative is available.  And I do like Toyota's!  Come on Toyota, - put a great Petrol Hybrid engine in the Landcruiser shell, and you will have a Tow car to be proud of!

TF

The low noseweight alone is sufficient reason it would not work for me. I need about 90kg. Have pondered a used Lexus RX400H but given my annual mileage last year was 21k of which 16k was private and most of my journeys are 30+miles (commuting) i doubt there would be any advantage over my current diesel. Another factor with any Hybrid or EV is the gradual deterioration of the batteries - loss of range, charge cycling and ability to hold charge such that by 100K miles it is likely they will need new batteries...... 

I'd like to ask Liam what mpg he gets when towing. I'm looking at a Rav4 Hybrid but the reviews don't make good reading.