[Lamo]

Hey Guys,
I've never owned a Suzuki before, always had larger 4wds but the misses and I are looking at a 2005 2.7l auto Grand Vitara. The only real problem I have is its towing capacity. The plan is to do a fair amount of travelling with extended stays of up to 6 months in certain places. We didn't want to go too big with the caravan but not too small either. We have decided on something like a 14 ish foot pop top (Jayco Eagle style)

The pop tops I have been looking at seem to be around 1200 - 1300kg. Combine that with water, food clothes etc, I see the GVM grossing around 1500 - 1600kg (could even go higher depending on grey water tank). This weight is getting close to the Vitara's Towing capacity of 1800kg.

Has anyone towed something heavier than a camper trailer for extended periods? Is the car capable enough to do this? I understand suspension will have to be upgraded, maybe even air bags but my main worry is longevity of the vehicles performance.

Any help/opinions are greatly appreciated.

[watermouse]

You will be fine.
One factor affecting towing ratings is the ball weight rating usually specified as 10% of the trailer mass for stable towing. 10% of 1800kg is 180 kilo ball weight which would be the limit of the standard suspension rating and tyre ratings when the when you approach the vehicle GVM. In europe, at least, they also worry about where your headlights are pointing when loaded.

The 2.7 will have adequate power and strength to tow that. I would keep an eye on the auto trans temps though.

[sezed]

I have towed heavy things in three different GV's. They handle it fine. Expect fuel consumption to rise dramatically. I would strongly recommend stiffer rear springs yo cope with the load, the stock ones sag a lot if you have anything in the back and a bit of ball weight on the trailer