ScorpionT16
Well-known member
If you are going that route make sure you budget for a new clutch. The stock clutch is marginal at best and I suspect lots of slipping when towing. A TDI could also work but same problem. Personally, I don't like the tail wagging the dog and trailer weights approaching tow vehicle weights make me very nervous. Also, I don't know if any VW car lets you go over 200 lbs tongue weight which is not enough for a trailer well over 2000 lbs.
It also voids any VW warranty, though the OP wants manual, in that budget.
My dad just sold his 2012 F-150 3.5L Ecoboost, was mint, fully loaded, he got like 12k for trade in, If I knew the OP, he could have got that at that price. Ford sold it for $16-17k I believe, it's not manual, however, the right tool for the job, twin turbo, efficient, and made to tow.