Whats pulling your RPod

The hybrids are for the most part optimised for fuel economy rather than performance.  The Toyota Highlander hybrid pulls a decent 3500 pounds.  The Ford Escape hybrid however is rated at a measly 1000 pounds!

I had an 06 Sienna - it had the tow package which included the tranny cooler - check with your dealer - you may have the coolers already. My 06 only had the 1.25 receiver installed by Toyota but was rated for 3500. I towed a Jayco popup with it with no issues. It did ride a little low so had to be careful. Some Sienna owners have installed air bags to help with the hitch height when towing.

As long as you are rated to pull 3500 you should be ok - we pull with a similar minivan, and had the Transmission cooler put in.  I highly reccommend it.  They are really quite cheap to put in as well, and gives you good peace of mind.

Your tranny might over heat.  A lot will depend on if you have to climb any hills.  When you get home check or have someone check to see if the fluid is burnt.  I pull with a 3.7L but I have a tranny cooler.

Terry

Except for the trip from Couch's back to NC, I haven't had much opportunity for towing my 171. I towed from Couch's with a 2007 Toyota Tundra 5.7 V8 [about 450 miles] and there were no issues with sway, stopping, etc. MPGs were around 10 to 11. I had planned to tow for camping with a 2008 Toyota Highlander V6 [rated to tow 5K] and have towed approximately 20 miles with this vehicle. The computer showed similar MPGs as in the Tundra and no towing issues although a longer tow is required for a better test.
However, reading these posts makes me think that the Tundra would be better for regular towing and it does have lots of storage in the 8 foot bed with the bedrug and undercover for security of stored items. The only drawback is finding parking in town when the 171 is in camp. The Tundra is about the length of a 250/350 4door 6.5 foot bed Ford. Also, around town/sightseeing MPGs is a lot less than the Highlander.
Thoughts??? Thanks.