I've kind of given up pursuing the argument. People who want to tow, using their Prius, are going to tow using their Prius. To me it's pretty simple. When Toyota says flat out, "Toyota Does Not Recommend Towing A Trailer With Your Prius" , I kind of take that as Toyota Does Not Recommend Towing A Trailer With Your Prius. The whole vehicle has a total load capacity of 835 lbs...including occupants. The vehicle has a regenerative braking system, synergized with ABS braking. It has electric motors and an unique e-CVT planetary gear based transmission. All things that absolutely scream to me, that the Prius is not a towing vehicle. But this issue comes up enough that I know resistance is futile. You're going to get your audience of Prius Owners who swear that towing does no damage, and will provide panoramic vista photo's of the Prius and a trailer at a view point on a mountain pass. So? I don't think the Prius is the right tool for the job. But some people, maybe a lot of people, just seem to want to "prove" it can be done. I wouldn't do it.
It is their vehicle. Toyota is NOT liable. When they cause a wreck, they will get sued and lose and pay a high price. This is America, and people are still free to be stupid if they so choose.
Bravo! These last two entries are the best in the thread. Toyota says "NO" towing, so I've never attempted to tow anything, and don't even have a hitch installed on mine. If others choose to ignore that spec and have consequences, well, it's their choice and they alone will be responsible. I've used my Prius for road trips only when it's either an overnighter with my family (just a small bag or two in the back), or much longer when it's just my wife and I (drop the back seat and tons of storage). If I want to tow something my Chrysler is rated at 3,500 lbs (and has a Class 3 hitch installed).
