TechnoGranola
Forum Ambassador
I'm not sure what the 3rd row seats folding flat have to do with towing? (and as an aside, all the SUV's with three rows that I've seen, have the 3rd row fold flat, else the cargo area wouldn't be useful)I go with the Mazda CX-9. The 3rd row seats fold down completely flat which would allow for towing.
Also, the CX-9 comes standard with 2000# towing capacity, you must get the optional towing package if you want 3500# capability. If a person is only towing a utility trailer, this should be fine, but if you need to tow camping trailers, etc. then going with a 5000# rated vehicle (or more) would be much better. Mazda and Ford specify their tow ratings with a 150# driver only, so any cargo, passengers, accessories in the vehicle need to be subtracted OFF the tow rating. Which means it's highly unlikely a person would ever be able to tow 3500#. This was actually the reason we sold our 3500# rated Ford as the tow limit was deceiving. I'll repeat that this would be fine for a small utility trailer though.