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Hi I'm looking for a second hand 4wd SUV which will be needed to tow a 5m boat approx 800-900kgs, often on long trips. I have heard good things about the Outlander & X-trail however I understand they both use a CVT transmission. Are these CVT transmissions ok for towing or should they be avoided? I am also interested by the Tiguan, do they use a CVT and if not would they be a better option (albeit more expensive to fix).

Ideally I would buy a manual but the market for manuals seems to be limited. I have owned a 2006 2.5L manual x-trail in the past which I was impressed by, but looking for something a bit newer and possibly slightly more efficient.

Hi there,
Vehicles with earlier model CVT's, it is generally not recommended to tow anything more than a bike rack or garden trailer. Technology is advancing and these transmissions are getting stronger and the tow rating increasing. The Tiguan has a conventional transmission or the DSG, and is very good at towing. A 2009 Diesel NZ new model has a braked tow capacity of 2,200kg for example. Maybe even look into a Mazda CX-5?

Great thanks for the advice. What years would you recommend CVTs for towing, ie 2011 onwards? Any preference of the above cars?