Would a 1.6-litre car be ok for towing a caravan?

I am looking for the best economical new car for towing a 1,000kg caravan. Can you please advise if a 1.6-litre car would do?

Many thanks

Eric Kinlan (Dublin)

May 2013 Filed under: towing

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Expert answer

Hi Eric,

We received some very helpful tips from Valerie, the Munster secretary of the Irish Caravan Club, on this one:

"Hope this is of some help in answering your query:  The Caravan Club recommends taking 85% of the kerb weight of the car and this is the max weight of caravan you should tow.  Most 1.6-litre cars are around 1,300- to 1,400kg in weight so there would be a good margin to play with in this case. Remember there will always be added weight to take account of to include the awning, BBQ, Cadac, bicycles, aqua roll, to name but a few items! Correctly loading the caravan is very important, balancing the weight between car and caravan, but all this comes with a bit of experience. Joining one of the caravan clubs and talking with experienced caravanners is the best way to learn the ropes."

Hope this is of help

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe