What can the Mahindra really tow?

[gnorthern]

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As mentioned elsewhere, my goal when I retire is to purchase a fuel efficent vehicle (must get 30mpg highway) and tow an RV that I would enjoy living in for several weeks. Until now, I thought no problem, the Mahindra can pull every trailer on my list with it's 5000 pound towing capacity. I am now hearing that there are two other limitations:
1. The length of the wheelbase of the tow vehicle determines maximum legth of the trailer you can SAFELY (as opposed to legally) pull. I have done some research on this and have seen some guidelines, but not from anybody I consider authoratative.
2. I am also hearing that with the specs of the Mahindra I will struggle on hills towing a heavy trailer (3500 to 4600) loaded. That there would be a lot of hills I would slow from 55 down to 20 to 30 mph.

Thougts on that?

[gandrimp]

Personally I think it will tow the 3500 to 4600 lbers fine. Of course we'll all have to wait to see real world power.
The one problem I see with the little trucks is if I recall correctly is that theyre like 4-6 inches longer behind the rear wheels, if this is correct then bumper hitch trailers will add more weight to the mahindra than say a ranger.

[sirmombo]

I don't think the wheelbase will be limiting factor. A Ford Ranger is rated at over 5700 pounds and it's wheelbase is 8 inches less.

I think the limiting factor for the Mahindra will be horsepower. I am sure it can tow 5000 pounds, but may not be able to do it quickly.

As long as the trailer is reasonably aerodynamic, 3500 pounds shouldn't be an issue. I towed that much with an older 4 cylinder Toyota Tacoma without any issues.

[clubgitmo]

The limiting factor will be the fact that it's a small truck and that you will have too much frame hanging off the rear axle for the hitch to mount to. These two items will make for an unstable towing platform on the highway. The engine specs equal what used to be in a one ton truck, but an old one ton truck will tow more just because it's a big old heavy truck that won't be pushed around as easily by the load. Power doesn't limit a truck's towing capacity in this case; Being able to safely handle and stop the load does.

I don't think the wheelbase will be limiting factor. A Ford Ranger is rated at over 5700 pounds and it's wheelbase is 8 inches less.

Sure about that? To achieve the max tow rating in a Ranger you either need a 7ft box or the supercab - Neither of which are 8 inches shorter.