Recommended Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack for 2014 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen

Question:

Hello, I am interested in getting a trailer hitch for my 2014 VW Jetta Sportwagen SE. I intend to use it for a bike rack with 4 bikes and also towing a lightweight trailer less than 2000 lbs. The two products I am considering are the Draw-Tite and the Ecohitch. The Ecohitch is almost 3x the price but seems to have the best ground clearance. I am concerned with ground clearance since I have a steep driveway. Thank you!

asked by: Preston H

Expert Reply:

For your 2014 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen SE, I recommend the Curt Class I Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11474. When compared to the other trailer hitches confirmed to fit your vehicle, the Curt has the best ground clearance measurement of about 10-1/2 inches from the ground to the top of the hitch receiver. I have attached an installation video on your vehicle for you to check out. Keep in mind that Curt requires you to use stabilizing straps like # 18050 for non-trailer loads such as bike racks and cargo carriers.

The EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver # 306-X7315 referenced in your question is designed for the VW Golf model vehicles and is not confirmed to fit your Jetta Sportwagen.

This is a Class I trailer hitch with a tongue weight capacity of 200 pounds and a gross towing weight capacity of 2,000 pounds. I also recommend checking your vehicle's towing capacity as listed in the owner's manual, as this might be the limiting factor.

We have a large number of hitch mounted bike racks available that are compatible with Class I hitches, however with a Class I trailer hitch you will be limited to carrying only 2 bikes. For a compatible bike rack, I recommend looking at the Swagman Chinook 2 Bike Platform Rack # S64683. This is a very nice platform style rack that can hold up to 2 bikes at 45 pounds each. The rack includes a hitch lock and cable lock so you can secure the carrier to your vehicle and the bikes to the carrier. I have attached a video demonstration on this rack as well as a link that will take you to our available selection of Class I hitch mounted bike racks.

In order to transport another two bikes, I recommend installing a roof rack like the Inno Square Crossbar System consisting of parts # INB117, # INSUT and # INK590. You can then install a roof bike rack such as the Yakima FrontLoader Wheel Mount Bike Carrier # Y02103. The carrier can hold 1 bike with wheels from 20 to 29 inches.

I have also attached a link that will take you to our available selection of roof bike racks for you to look through.