Have you ever been behind the wheel of your RV, ready to hit the open road, and stopped to wonder—Can my RV bring my car along without a trailer? That’s where flat towing, or dinghy towing, comes in. Increasingly, more vehicles are being designed for flat towing, making it easier to tow your daily driver wherever you please. Whether you’re traversing national parks, dry camping, or simply trying to save money by avoiding a rental car, selecting the best flat-towable vehicle or SUV is key.
Flat towing involves pulling a vehicle behind your RV with all four wheels on the ground, utilizing a tow bar, which makes it a very efficient and comfortable way to tow. However, not all cars are well-suited for the job. Transmission types, drivetrains, weight distribution, and manufacturer’s instructions are all large factors affecting whether your vehicle can be flat towed. Pick the wrong setup and you end up with a damaged transmission, not to mention a vacation that could be a total washout.
This is why we put together our comprehensive, current guide to the best vehicles you can dinghy tow behind an RV in 2025. Whether it’s a rugged off-road SUV like the Jeep Wrangler or an efficient hybrid like the Ford Maverick, there’s a selection of factory-approved options to suit every kind of lifestyle. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know, including specs, pro tips, and flat towing requirements—so you can hit the road with complete confidence.
Must Check: 10 Best Trucks for Towing Campers & Fifth Wheel Travel Trailers
Top Flat Tow Vehicles You Can Pull Behind an RV in 2025
Below are the top flat-towable cars and SUVs for 2025, organized by key specs and quick tips to help you make the best decision for your adventures.
#1. 2025 Jeep Wrangler (All Trims)
- Flat Tow Compatible: Yes – factory-approved
- Transmission: Manual or auto with 4WD (NV241/NV241OR transfer case)
- Curb Weight: 4,000–4,500 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: Tow bar + braking system
- Why It Works: Built for it; setup is fast and easy.
- Engines: 2.0L Turbo, 3.6L V6, 4xe Hybrid
- Model Years: 2009–2025
- Expert Tip: For hybrids, keep an eye on battery discharge while towing
The Jeep Wrangler is once again one of the best cars to flat tow behind an RV, with factory-endorsed flat towing availability on all trims. Whether you opt for the 3.6L V6 or the 2.0L Turbo 4 model, all Wrangler models feature a 4WD system with a manual transfer case, enabling dinghy towing.
At an impressive 4,200 lbs, it’s light enough for almost all RVs to manage while providing accurate, authoritative stability. Built tough and easy to pop up and use, the Wrangler is a fan favorite for full-time and weekend RVers. Plug in your baseplate and tow bar, and remember to invest in a supplemental braking system, such as the Blue Ox Patriot, for safe and legal towing on any road.
#2. 2025 Ford Bronco (Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Badlands)
- Flat Tow Compatible: Yes – manual trims only
- Transmission: 7-speed manual with 4WD and manual transfer case
- Curb Weight: ~4,500 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: Standard tow bar + brake assist
- Why It Works: Great off-roader, robust platform
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost
- Model Years: 2021–2025
- Expert Tip: Automatics are not flat towable—read the manual carefully!
The Ford Bronco, specifically its trims such as Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, and Badlands, are good choices for flat towing behind your RV. With a factory-authorized 4WD system and manual transfer case, the Bronco is engineered for serious fun, whether on the road or off the trail. It can be equipped with a 2.3-liter 4 or a 2.7-liter V6, and it weighs approximately 4,500 pounds, making it a good fit for most Class A and Class C motorhomes.
No need for a driveshaft disconnect; all you’ll need is a tow bar and safety chains to get moving. With its off-road capabilities and robust build, it’s a popular choice for RVers who enjoy tackling remote trails. And steer clear of Sasquatch trims, which are built without a manual transfer case. A $5,000 Braking system is always used when towing.
#3. 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
- Flat Tow Compatible: Yes – ZR2 trim
- Transmission: Auto + 4WD with neutral transfer case
- Curb Weight: ~4,750 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: Tow bar + auxiliary brake
- Why It Works: Midsize rugged utility, perfect RV companion
- Engine: 2.7L Turbo High-Output
- Model Years: 2023–2025
- Expert Tip: ZR2 only—others may not have the required neutral setting
For flat towing behind an RV, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is a solid choice, thanks to its factory-approved hardware and robust construction. Custom Rally 4 Sport Red Unlimited Rubicon equipped with a 2.7L Turbo High-Output and automatic transmission with 4WD and neutral transfer case that is required for safe flat towing. The ZR2 weighs approximately 4,750 pounds, making it the perfect size for performing well while also being towable.
Competing with off-road cred, the Frontier’s midsize footprint makes it an ideal companion for camping and road-tripping. Add a reliable tow bar and a suitable brake system for towing cars, and you’re ready to embark on your adventures. And remember, only the ZR2 trim is flat tow capable—other Colorado trims may not be eligible.
#4. 2025 Ram 1500 (4WD with Transfer Case)
- Flat Tow Compatible: Yes – select trims only
- Transmission: 8-speed auto with neutral-capable 4WD
- Curb Weight: 4,800–5,300 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: Driveshaft remains stationary in neutral
- Why It Works: Tough, reliable, great for long hauls
- Engines: 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.6L V6
- Model Years: 2019–2025
- Expert Tip: Avoid eTorque trims unless explicitly listed in the manual
The Ram 1500 is a brawny and capable pickup that can be flat towed—but only in certain 4WD trims with a neutral-capable transfer case. When the crawler gear is engaged, the driveshaft does not spin, which enables the Gladiator to be flat-towed behind an RV without issue.
Weighing in at between 4,800 and 5,300 pounds, the Ram 1500 is designed for individuals who require power and durability for extended periods. Engines range from the fuel-efficient 3.6L Pentastar V6 to a 5.7L HEMI V8. This is a favorite of many RVers who tow mid to large-sized vehicles. But keep a special eye on those with the eTorque, only flat tow if the owner’s manual specifically states that they are clear for four-down towing.
#5. 2025 Chevrolet Equinox (FWD Only)
- Flat Tow Compatible: Yes – limited trims
- Transmission: Automatic
- Curb Weight: ~3,500 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: May need transmission lubrication pump
- Why It Works: Compact and fuel-efficient
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo I4
- Model Years: 2020–2025
- Expert Tip: Always check if the trim and year are approved
The Chevy Equinox is a great, fuel-efficient, and compact SUV with tow capability available on some front-wheel-drive trims. With a 1.5L turbocharged inline-four and an automatic gearbox, it’s light, weighing a mere 3,500 pounds, making it capable of being easily towed behind most RVs. Some model trims are rated for flat towing, while others require a transmission lubrication pump to prevent damage.
RVers seeking a reliable daily driver that doesn’t overburden their setup may find the Equinox an appealing choice. However, it’s essential to verify that your specific trim and model year are indeed rated for flat towing in your owner’s manual. The 2025 Equinox, when properly equipped, combines efficiency, convenience, and flat towing versatility.
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#6. 2025 Honda CR-V (Manual Transmission Only)
- Flat Tow Compatible: Older manual trims only
- Transmission: Manual
- Curb Weight: ~3,300 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: Tow bar setup
- Why It Works: Lightweight and reliable
- Engine: 2.4L I4
- Model Years: Up to 2014 (limited trims)
- Expert Tip: Modern CR-V hybrids are not towable flat
The Honda CR-V cannot be flat towed; however, some earlier year manual transmission versions “particularly up to the 2014 model “can be flat towed provided that they are being towed with the equipment that they are being flat towed. Those older CR-Vs are equipped with a 2.4L inline-four engine, a manual transmission, and weigh approximately 3,300 pounds, making them perfect for RVers seeking a small, dependable rig to tow behind them.
These trims come with a basic tow bar connection option for easy, low-hassle towing. That being said, contemporary CRVs, particularly hybrids or units with CVTs, are ill-suited for flat towing. As always, consult your specific model’s owner’s manual to verify. If you’re shopping used, the manual CR-V is also still a wise, fuel-efficient choice to flat tow behind an RV.
#7. 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid
- Flat Tow Compatible: Yes
- Transmission: e-CVT
- Curb Weight: ~3,700 lbs
- Towing Gear Needed: Standard flat-tow setup
- Why It Works: One of the only flat-towable hybrids
- Engine: 2.5L Hybrid
- Model Years: 2022–2025
- Expert Tip: Disconnect the 12V battery to prevent draining
The Ford Maverick Hybrid is one of a tiny handful of hybrid vehicles that is flat towable; it is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious RVers. Maverick Hybrid offers impressive fuel efficiency with a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine and an e-CVT transmission while still preserving flat-tow capability. At a curb weight of about 3,700 pounds, it’s light enough for most Class A and Class C motorhomes to manage comfortably.
The Maverick doesn’t have to be towed with all four wheels up, but a standard flat-tow setup is required. Ford recommends disconnecting the car’s 12V battery before towing to prevent a drain on the battery. The Maverick Hybrid may be flat towable from the 2022 to 2025 model years, offering everyday practicality with the one-of-a-kind addition of flat-towing capability —a rarity in the hybrid field.
Quick Reference List – Other Flat Towable Vehicles (2025 Edition)
Vehicle | Year Range | Flat Tow Approved | Starting Price (Est) |
Jeep Gladiator | 2020-2025 | Yes | $39,500 |
Ford F-150 4WD (w/ transfer case) | 2015-2025 | Yes | $38,000 |
Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD | 2014-2025 | Yes | $37,000 |
GMC Canyon (select trims) | 2023-2025 | Yes | $36,000 |
Jeep Cherokee (Active Drive II) | 2014-2022 | Yes | $33,500 |
Buick Enclave (FWD trims) | 2020-2023 | Yes | $43,000 |
Honda Fit (Manual only) | 2015-2020 | Yes | $17,000 (used) |
Chevy Sonic (Manual only) | 2012-2020 | Yes | $16,000 (used) |
Pro Tips Before You Flat Tow
- Check the Owner’s Manual – Factory suggestions can be updated on an annual basis
- Use a Supplemental Braking System – Where it’s required in many states
- Invest in a Quality Tow Bar – RV-rated and matching weight limit
- Watch Transmission Cooling– Particularly crucial for automatics and hybrids
- Disconnect the Battery– If the instructions tell you to, then do so
- Don’t Overload Your RV– Keep under the towing capacity of your RV
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Flat Tow Vehicle for You?
If freedom, convenience, and stress-free automobile transportation are what you are looking for, you need a tow dolly. Flat Towable Vehicles: 2025 Guide From durable Jeeps to affordable Mavericks, the 2025 collection of flat towable vehicles, has everything you need and more.
The rest should be easy: find the appropriate ride for your lifestyle, and hit the road. Happy towing, and safe travels!