Selecting a Pre-owned Towed Vehicle: A Guide
When embarking on a caravan tour, finding the right tow vehicle is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a used tow car.
Caravan Weights and Towing Capacity
Ensure the vehicle's maximum towing capacity comfortably exceeds your caravan's weight, including all loaded gear. This includes the caravan's Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and the towball download weight (typically up to 350 kg), which counts towards the vehicle’s GVM. Allow a safety margin, as towing near maximum capacity stresses the vehicle.
Drivetrain: FWD vs RWD vs 4WD
4WD vehicles or full-size 4x4 utes/wagons with turbo-diesel engines are generally best for towing, especially for heavier caravans or off-road/uneven terrain, providing better traction and stability. RWD vehicles can be preferable for towing on paved roads because they handle load better under acceleration. FWD vehicles, like many minivans, often have limited towing capacities but can still tow lighter caravans and are easier to drive and park.
Transmission: Manual vs Automatic
Automatic transmissions are often preferred for towing as they reduce driver fatigue, handle torque delivery better, and may have integrated towing modes or trailer sway control. Manuals can provide more driver control but may be less practical for heavy or long-distance towing.
Fuel Type
Turbo-diesel engines are usually the best choice for towing due to their high torque at low RPMs, which benefits towing heavy loads and improves fuel efficiency under load. Gasoline engines can work well for lighter caravans but may be less fuel-efficient and have lower torque.
Reviews and Reliability
Look for vehicles with good towing records and reliability. For example, minivans like the Dodge Grand Caravan and Honda Odyssey are known for reliable towing in lower weight classes and have positive owner reviews. Reading owner reviews on specific used models provides insight into long-term reliability and common issues.
Towball Considerations and Additional Features
The towball download rating (how much weight the caravan places on the towball) must be within the vehicle’s limits. Towing stability improves when the distance from the rear axle to the towball is shorter. Features like trailer sway control, vehicle stability control systems, and reversing cameras with guidelines simplify and enhance safe towing and maneuvering.
Electric and Hybrid Tow Cars
Pure electric cars can perform strongly in acceleration and stability, but their range and the difficulties of recharging while towing count against them. Some pure electric cars and self-charging and plug-in hybrids can be used for towing. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a common choice among those considering tow cars that are electric or hybrid.
When buying a used car for towing, it's important to check what the car has been towing if buying from a private seller. If a car doesn't have towing gear, the cost of having this fitted should be considered before buying. Regularly check tow car reviews and reliability surveys to stay informed about the latest models and their performance as tow cars. Owner satisfaction studies are also useful when refining your shortlist of possible models.
Diesel vehicles offer better fuel economy compared to petrol vehicles, but currently, petrol values are usually a few percentage points stronger than diesel values. Diesel vehicles started out from a position of strength, typically holding onto more of their original price than petrol counterparts. However, in 2018, a diesel Volkswagen Tiguans returned 30.3mpg while the petrol version returned 20.8mpg, towing the same tourer on the same route.
Full hybrids and plug-ins have improved significantly as tow cars in the past few years. If you're buying from a private seller, make sure the car's towing capacity is suitable for the weight of your tourer.
- For safer and more enjoyable caravan tours, consider electric-vehicles like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV that are suitable for towing, despite their range and recharging challenges.
- Car-maintenance is crucial when making a buying decision, especially as it pertains to the car's towing capacity. For instance, check if the diesel Volkswagen Tiguan, when towing the same tourer on the same route, returns better fuel economy than its petrol counterpart.
- When looking for a used tow car, don't overlook home-and-garden reviews and lifestyle magazines for insights into the latest tow car models, their performance, and owner satisfaction.
