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Just bought a new '18 NX300 and I need to add a tow bar so that I can haul a couple bicycles. Trying to decide if the Curt or Draw-Tite is better? I have researched both and it seems the Draw-Tite mounts under the muffler hanger brackets, thus forcing the muffler outlets down as far as 1" on some installs (per reviews). The Curt mounts on the sides of the rear frame rails, accordingly. Does one fit the chassis any closer than the other? I'm big on aesthetics and want it up as tight as possible.
Also, can anyone recommend a bike rack for same? Assume 2" receiver hitch for Class III bar. I know Thule is a big/popular name for these but would like to hear all opinions/options. Would also consider finding a used one.
I'm solid with mechanics so installation of either bar doesn't phase me.
Dean, the drawtite mounts very close under the bumper, if you take the stickers off the tow bar you can barely notice it. I know that is not the case with the curt. Also, the exhaust doesn't drop very much, you can't really tell unless you are side by side with another nx.
...Also, the exhaust doesn't drop very much, you can't really tell unless you are side by side with another nx.
Gompka, thank you for the inputs and pics. FYI, on the 2018's they have detached the chrome exhaust surround from the tailpipe (it's no longer free-floating). So the new chrome surround is integrated into the rear bumper cover (lower valance) and the tailpipes (round) are now free-floating within. My concern is that the Draw-Tite might pull those round exhaust pipe ends down too far and then project the exhaust directly onto the lower rim of the surround. Or worse, make contact with the surround if the Draw-Tite configuration really does lower the exhaust tips by an 1" (or slightly more).
I'm hoping to gain more inputs here before I make a final decision. A muffler shop could tweak the tailpipes upward but I'm trying to avoid that, if possible.
I noticed one link where the Curt 13337 would fit the 300h because the hybrid only has one exhaust pipe and not the same lower bumper configuration. Then I found this link on etrailer.com with pics on a 2018 NX300 (my exact model) that clearly shows that it fits. Some installers found it more of a PITA to get it on, but I don't mind a two-beer project if that's what it takes.
Scroll down on this link and tell me what you think.
Your NX200t also has the free-floating chrome exhaust escutcheons, which makes installing the Draw-Tite not an issue. The 2018's are different (as per my original post).
Note that both Curt and etrailer were contacted by me and informed of the incompatibility.
The fine people at etrailer were unable to fix their listing, because they pull the compatibility chart from Curt.
The Curt representative took the information and evidently filed the case because their web site still shows this incompatible hitch as fitting my vehicle.
The 2018's have two tapped holes on the outside of the rear frame rails, which appear to line-up with the Curt option. I plan to contact etrailers.com on Monday to confirm fitment on '18's, as they have two reviews that support same. Also, on the 2018's the chrome exhaust escutcheons are attached with four studs/nuts. Easy access with extensions and a flex socket, and I won't have to be concerned with the exhaust pipes being lowered. One reviewer indicated that removing those made the install considerably easier. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress and decision, accordingly.
Okay. So I bought the Curt and I installed the Curt. Fits like a glove but it wasn't a simple "drop the exhaust down." Because of the exhaust escutcheons on the 2018's getting in the way, it was just easier to drop the entire rear resonator and tailpipe section. Three rubber isolators and two bolts on the flange exiting the primary muffler underneath. Then it became obvious to drop the two muffler brackets and get those out of the way, too. After that it was a piece of cake. Snug fit and I just had to slowly tap it into place before bolting it up and torquing to 60 ft lbs. Everything went back together with no drama and it fits great, looks great and will work great. One man job with a floor jack and the right tools.
Again, the Draw-Tite will also work on an '18. But the thickness of the flange will drop the tailpipes to a point where they will potentially touch the escutcheons and then you have a rattle situation.
Curt vs. Draw-Tite tow bars?
