Are Honda HR-V and CR-V 4x4s suitable for towing?

I often tow a trailer with a 2000 1.8-litre Vauxhall Vectra but I feel that a 4x4 might be more appropriate for the task. A local motor trader has a range of S, T and V-reg Honda 4x4s for sale from £1000 to £1600, with both automatic and manual gearboxes, and either 1.6- or 2-litre engines. Which would you recommend to purchase with regard to reliability and economy? All have covered between 100,000 and 120,000 miles with a full service history. Is a Honda safe to buy at this age or would you recommend something else?

Asked on 6 September 2012 by JF, Rye, East Sussex

Answered by Honest John
These must be HR-Vs and CR-Vs. HR-V CVTs are totally unsuited to towing. Older vehicles anyway are not good for towing because they are more prone to overheat, but to specialise in 10-15 year old HR-Vs and CR-Vs, this chap must be pretty confident about them.
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