Small Pickup Trucks
If you don't need to carry more people but want more space for gear, then a small pickup truck is for you. Trucks in this category typically have four- or six-cylinder engines, making for the best fuel economy you can get in a pickup. Four-wheel drive is an option on all models. Most are available with towing packages, so they come direct from the factory ready to pull your camper. While they have less passenger space, small trucks have plenty of space for gear, so for sporting enthusiasts, this is a great choice. Trucks in this category include the Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, Dodge Dakota and Nissan Frontier.
Small SUVs
Small SUVs are typically a bit better on fuel economy than pickup trucks, with most again having four- or six-cylinder engines, though not quite as good as vans or crossovers. Almost all offer all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Most are available with factory towing packages, so you are ready to pull when you drive off the lot. They offer a good blend of passenger and cargo hauling capability. Vehicles in this category include the Ford Escape, Chevy Trailblazer, Nissan XTerra and Subaru Forester.
Vans
Passenger vans also make good towing vehicles for small trailers. Most have six-cylinder engines and offer good gas mileage. While they don't have as much cargo space as trucks or SUVs, vans have even more passenger space, so if you have a large family or camp in groups, this can be an attractive option. Towing packages are sometimes available but sometimes have to be added as an aftermarket product. Ford E-series, Chevy Express and Dodge Grand Caravans make good tow vehicles.
Crossovers
In recent years, crossover vehicles have appeared on the scene, combining features of SUVs, vans and passenger cars to create a vehicle with good fuel economy, passenger and cargo space with foul weather and off-road capabilities. Many crossovers are available with towing packages. This type of vehicle includes the Ford Edge, Chevy Equinox, Dodge Nitro and Nissan Murano.
