What is the best car for towing a caravan?
Not sure if you’re current vehicle is up for the towing challenge, or thinking of upgrading your car to suit a family or small caravan weight? We’ve wrapped up some of the leaders in the field.
It’s a tricky question. Do I buy my caravan before buying a car, or do I buy a car and then figure out what caravan it’s capable of towing? Or will my current vehicle be sufficient? They’re both big purchases, and one you want to get right the first time! Ideally a towing vehicle would fall in the diesel, automatic and all-wheel drive category; don’t despair, that’s not to say that a petrol or manual isn’t capable of successfully pulling your trailer, it just all depends on what you want to achieve. There are a few basic requirements that a car should ideally be fitted with if you are to safely and without stress, tow a caravan. We’ve created a quick checklist to help determine if your current car is up to the challenge, if you’ll need to make any aftermarket modifications or if only a new car will sufficiently tow your dream Caravan.
The Caravan Towing Checklist!
Brakes
All caravans that weigh over 750kgs GTM (Gross Trailer Mass) or more must be fitted with brakes. Electrical brakes must be fitted to at least two wheels and at least one axel, and must be operable from the drivers seating position.
Torque
Torque is the pulling power of your car’s engine. Higher torque can get you out of tricky situations, get you up hills faster, give you greater control of your trailer and means you can safely pull heavier caravans.
Tank Capacity
Before deciding on what tank capacity you will require, you first need to consider what you will be doing and where you want to venture with your caravan. If you’re planning on heading off the beaten track, ideally the bigger the tank the better. The larger your tank, the longer you can go between refuelling stops, which opens up exploring more remote places. And remember, the heavier your van, the faster your vehicle with chew through your juice.
Towing Capacity
Before purchasing a van or a car, it is imperative to know the towing capacity of either your current car or if purchasing a new van, what will be expected of the towing car. Exceeding tow limits and recommendations can be extremely unsafe and can also void your insurance. Keep in mind that for safe towing, and to avoid ‘tail wagging the dog’ it is recommended that your tow vehicle be 30% heavier than your caravan (and remember to include the weight of all your gear on board). Basically the less tow weight, the more road stability.
Current car doesn’t make the grade? We’ve rounded up a few classic options to suit both our smaller caravans and for our weightier family caravans or luxury caravans.
Best Cars for towing a lightweight Caravan Reviewed
Mazda CX-5
Price: From $43,000
Torque: 309
Kerbweight: 1632 – 1690kg
Towing Capacity: 1800kg
Gearbox: 2.2lt Diesel
Fuel Consumption: 5.7L/100km
Tank Volume: 58 litres
Verdict: Impressive towing capabilities and commendably high towing limits. Downside, interior can give a cheap, hard plastic feel
Ford Mondeo 2.0 LX Wagon
Price: From $35.490
Torque: 345
Kerbweight: 1612kg
Towing Capacity: 1600kg
Transmission: 2L inline four-cylinder turbo diesel six-speed manual
Fuel Consumption: 6.2L/100km
Tank Volume: 62 litres
Verdict: Great price tag and good towing capacity given its size, however fuel consumption is a down side
Volvo V60 D3 Wagon
Price: From $57,990
Torque: 400
Kerbweight: 1626kg
Towing Capacity: 1800kg
Transmission: four-cylinder turbo diesel eight-speed automatic
Fuel Consumption: 4.5L/100km
Tank Volume: 67.51
Verdict: The Volvo V60 may be heftier on the price tag, but it packs a punch on torque, towing capacity and fuel consumption. The perfect all-rounder!
Best Cars for towing heavy Caravans Reviewed
Toyota LandCruiser 200
Price: From $78,990
Torque: 650
Kerbweight: 1632 – 1690kg
Towing Capacity: 3500kg
Transmission: 4.5L Six Speed V8 Turbo Diesel
Fuel Consumption: 10.3L/100km
Tank Volume: 93L + 45 sub tank
Verdict: The best in the biz, especially for off road, but be prepared to pay for it in price and fuel consumption
Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
Price: From $50,500
Torque: 520
Kerbweight: up to 2329kg
Towing Capacity: 3500kg
Transmission: 8 Speed 3lt turbo diesel
Fuel Consumption: 8.3L/100km
Tank Volume: 93.1 litres
Verdict: Great value for money, but if the deep outback is where you’re headed, this one’s not the best off roader. And did we mention superb fuel economy?
Mazda BT-50
Price: From $48,924
Torque: 470
Kerbweight: up to 2118
Towing Capacity: 3500kg
Transmission: 8 Speed 3lt turbo diesel
Fuel Consumption: 9.2L/100km
Tank Volume: 80 litres
Verdict: Best for versatility in terms of twin cab and tray. Great price point but could do with a bit more engine refinement
**This is a guide only – all manufacturers’ specifications should be checked carefully Need more help or information on towing your caravan, contact our expert team on 03 9305 1714 today!