Lghtspeedz
Active Member
I bought a ‘20 Limited with the tow package a few months ago. It occasionally tows a 23’ boat and trailer weighing ~5,000 lbs. My previous tow vehicle was an Acura MDX. I was technically within the specs Acura laid out (I weighed the whole rig) but it was not an easy tow. I am sitting 300 miles from home at a rented Lake House about to return with my boat in tow. I can honestly tell you 1- we would not have done it with the MDX. It didn’t have the margin I needed to feel comfortable. 2- the tow package is 100% worth it, even at this weight. I specifically held out for the tow package because I didn’t want to be in a GCWR constraint situation at some point. I drove models with and without the tow package and while I didn’t tow I’m certain it makes a difference based on how different the two gear ratios drive unladen. Deadman is right, the non tow versions feel sluggish. The versions with the 3.73 ratio are more sprightly. I did not care about pro trailer assist but I did care about the 3.73 ratio, 4LO, and the radiator upgrade. At the end of 300 miles, a lot of back road driving by the way, I can honestly tell you I almost didn’t know the 5,000 lb boat was there. Up and down steep inclines, the gearing was a good thing.
I was basically looking for a unicorn - a 2020 Platinum or Limited with a bench seat and tow package. It took I swear six months or looking. I am VERY glad I held out for the tow package (and bench).
Also, regarding WDH - most boat trailers use surge brakes which are generally not compatible with a WDH. I think maybe some specific ones are but they’re harder to come by. There are no suspension upgrades I know of between the HD Tow and standard Expy so I wasn’t concerned about tongue weight. I spent extra money on a solid adjustable receiver/ball mount setup and when you get the height right, it all balances nicely. Like I said, what 5,000 lb boat?
Good luck!
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