I didn't lengthen mine at all. My receiver bar sticks out about a foot from the back bumper. It is much easier to haul in trunk if it isn't lengthened. I don't try to make immediate 90 degree turns. I never try to back up with car in tow. You do want the tow bar pretty level with the ground when installed - you can get an adjustible hitch receiver or a receiver with a different lift. I use the inexpensive Harbor Freight magnetic mount (of course that isn't applicable) tow lights ($20) for the towed car.
