Whether you only buy new or used cars, any avid caravaner can add these models to their vehicle wish list. AUTODOC experts have composed a list of the top-recommended cars for towing based on reviews, performance specs, the maximum towing weight, and the practicality of their design.
| Model | Price Range | Towing Capacity | Best For |
| Volvo XC60 T6 Plug-In Hybrid | £52,000 – £63,000 | 2,250 kg | Eco-conscious towers wanting luxury and safety with hybrid efficiency |
| BMW X5 | £67,000 – £80,000+ | Up to 3,500 kg | Heavy-duty towing with premium comfort and high-tech features |
| Volvo V90 D5 | £48,000 – £55,000 | 2,200 kg | Long-distance touring with excellent fuel economy and interior comfort |
| Land Rover Discovery | £64,000 – £80,000+ | 3,500 kg | Serious towers needing maximum capacity and off-road capability |
| Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI | £28,000 – £36,000 | Up to 1,600 kg | Budget-conscious towers with lightweight caravans seeking great value |
Volvo XC60 T6 Plug-In Hybrid
| Pros | Cons |
| Plug-in hybrid fuel efficiency | Expensive |
| Volvo safety tech | Reduced towing range in electric-only mode |
| AWD traction | Limited boot space due to battery |
BMW X5
| Pros | Cons |
| High braked towing capacity | Pricey |
| Excellent ride & refinement | PHEV can be heavy and expensive to maintain |
| Strong petrol and diesel engines | ULEZ/CAZ costs for older diesels |
Volvo V90 D5
| Pros | Cons |
| Low-slung, stable towing | Lower ground clearance |
| Fuel-efficient diesel models | AWD models pricier |
| Superb interior comfort | Not ideal for off-road sites |
Land Rover Discovery
| Pros | Cons |
| Best-in-class towing | Expensive to buy and run |
| Terrain Response system | Very large, making it less agile than smaller models |
| Air suspension stability | Reliability concerns in older models |
Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI
| Pros | Cons |
| Great MPG | Limited towing ability |
| Lots of boot space | FWD only in most versions |
| Excellent value for money | Not suitable for heavy caravans |
Other popular models
While they didn’t make it to the top 5, we can’t forget to mention the following vehicle models:
Factors to consider when choosing a tow car
Towing capacity
Make sure the vehicle’s towing capacity (maximum braked weight) meets or exceeds the weight of your caravan. This is crucial for legal compliance and safety as exceeding it can not only compromise your safety but also void your insurance. Always check the manufacturer’s load rating, especially if you’re planning to tow near the vehicle’s maximum load limit.
Kerb weight
The kerb weight is the total weight of the vehicle with fluids and a full tank of fuel, but without passengers or cargo. The 85% rule, which is recommended for most caravanners, says you should tow a caravan that weighs no more than 85% of the tow car’s kerb weight.
Engine power and the transmission
Larger engines with more torque (pulling power) are generally better for towing, especially up hills. Generally speaking, cars with automatic gearboxes offer a few benefits over manual transmissions when it comes to towing heavy loads.
For example, there is less clutch wear when starting on hills or in traffic, and modern torque converters multiply torque at low speeds, making towing easier for drivers. Some automatic models also feature towing modes, specifically for driving with trailers or caravans.
Stability and handling
Look for models with a long wheelbase, low centre of gravity, and good suspension setup. Some modern vehicles include trailer assist or trailer stability control, which automatically corrects sway or instability, which is especially useful at motorway speeds or in crosswinds. A stable setup reduces driver fatigue and increases confidence on long journeys.
Towing electrics and features
Make sure the vehicle has the correct towing electrics, usually a 7-pin or 13-pin socket, depending on your caravan’s requirements. These power your caravan’s lights, brakes, and charging systems.
You should also check for a properly fitted tow bar rated for your vehicle’s capacity. Advanced features like reversing cameras, parking sensors, and trailer assist systems can greatly simplify hitching and maneuvering, especially in tight spaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right towing car is essential for safe, efficient, and enjoyable caravan travel. Consider the overall capacity, kerb weight, engine power, and stability features. Prioritise vehicles with suitable electrics and fuel economy. Whether driving with a manual or automatic transmission, always match the car to the caravan for confident, legally compliant, and comfortable towing.
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