What Car? Q&A - Can I fit a towbar to a Prius?

Q: I am considering a Toyota Prius as my next company car. However, I do go camping from time to time and want to ensure I can fit a towbar to take the additional luggage. I'm told it is not possible to fit a towbar to a Prius – is this correct?
Graham Degg

A: Toyota tells us that it does not offer the option of fitting a towbar to a Prius, because it's possible for the battery packs to overheat after a period of prolonged towing.

Fitting an aftermarket towbar to the Prius could also invalidate the warranty of the car.

As long as you do not exceed the gross vehicle weight and adjust the tyre pressures accordingly, carrying additional luggage on the roof is possible. A dealer we spoke to quoted us £206.46 for roof bars, and £278.38 for a luggage box – although costly, this could be a solution for your camping requirements.