Many cars should be able to tow 2,000 lbs, but manufacturers rarely rate them for towing because people who tow tend to buy SUVs. A list of some 2013 non-SUVs that were rated to tow: https://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/top-10/top-13-best-cars-for-towing-for-2013.html Aside from the Corolla, the Outback is probably the most fuel-efficient car on this list. So if you want to maximize both interior space and fuel economy while also being able to tow, it does seem like your best bet. Add the manual transmission, and it's pretty much your only bet, as the Toyota Venza and Honda Crosstour weren't offered with one (and aren't as efficient, either). Given your price limit, you should be able to get a reasonably new Outback. In the past Subarus have tended to get a little pricey to maintain once over 100,000 miles. The 2010 and up Outback seems better in this regard, but perhaps it's too soon to be sure. Be aware that some owners experience excessive oil consumption with the new, more efficient engine introduced with the 2013. Subaru often pays to fix these, but I'm not sure up to what age / mileage. When not fixed, they require a quart of oil every 1-2k. I don't know what percentage are affected. Far from all, but plenty of reports. If you can get a 2014 or even a 2015, the odds of this decrease.
| 1 |
