Which is better for towing the Rav4 4x4 or the Duster 4x4

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Field04

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I am looking at getting one of the above, the Duster would be the Prestige
4x4 from this year. The Rav would be the top of the range model 4x4 from 2011. Which would be best to tow with and could I tow a two place or just a single?

Thanks
 
The Dacia Duster 4x4 is capable of towing a single horse van. Have checked in the manual and in the garage. Although I have seen many people driving two place vans with a Duster. :eek:
 
I still wouldn't be convinced. The Kia Sorrento or Hyundai Santa Fe would be better options I'd have thought?
 
We tow a caravan with the RAV and it has excellent torque, never had an issue or felt as though it were struggling or weaving. Haven't used it with a horsebox as I've not had the need to take the ponies anywhere.
You need to watch your weight though as it's quite a light vehicle. Depending on how large a horse you have in the box, it may not be right (or safe) for you. I think the towing specs should be on the manufacturers websites, it's crucial you get the weight allowance right.
 
I would think the Dacia would be too unstable to be safe in challenging conditions as it isn't very wide. Rav4 might be better, but I wouldn't tow my horse with either of them.
 
Dusters Stats -
Weight 1294 kg
Braked Towing Weight 1500 kg
Power Output 107 bhp

top spec Rav4 stats -
Weight 1595 kg
Braked Towing Weight 2000 kg
Power Output 174 bhp

So the Rav4 wins in capacity, being that little heavier and in power. However that was the RAV4 2.2 D-4D T180

But those are just stats, have no idea how either handles or pulls. I had a look at buying a rav4, till I saw how tiny they were IRL.
 
Wouldn't advise the RAV4 for towing. We used one towing an Ifor Williams 505 and a 12hh pony. It didn't feel gutsy or heavy enough for the job and it burnt out the clutch doing a Hill start - it didn't get used for towing again after that.

Much happier towing with the Jeep we use now.
 
I have a Rav4 and I wouldn't tow with it. I have looked in the manual and it advises against towing full stop as it would damage the vehicle's engine:(
 
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