Caravanning is fun, but the towing part could be a little challenging. The Ford Galaxy is a large 7-seater people carrier that’s been on the market since 1995. It’s a popular choice for families and those who need to transport many people or equipment regularly.
So, can a Ford Galaxy tow a caravan?
The answer is yes; a Ford Galaxy can tow a caravan. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before attempting to do so:
The Galaxy’s towing capacity is only 1,500 kg, so it can only tow a small caravan or trailer.
The Galaxy is not a particularly powerful car, so it may struggle to tow a heavy caravan up hills or over long distances.
The Galaxy’s suspension is not designed for towing, so the ride may be uncomfortable if you carry a lot of weight.
If you’re planning on towing a caravan with your Galaxy, we recommend taking it for a test drive first to make sure it can handle the weight and that you’re comfortable with the ride. Happy travels!
What size car engine do you need to pull a caravan?
The size of the engine will affect the towing capacity. Towing functions will be handled efficiently by a 1.8L diesel or petrol engine.
Although smaller engines can be used, towing with a 1.6L engine is limited to a maximum towing weight of 1500kg, whereas a 2.0 litre engine can tow up to 2,000 kg.
Can a 1.6 diesel engine pull a caravan?
With a 1.6 diesel, you can tow a caravan as long as your caravan’s MTPLM (maximum loaded weight) does not exceed 85 percent of your car’s kerbweight.
What BHP is needed to tow a caravan?
Aim for 40bhp/tonne of GTW, which includes everything in the outfit that the engine has to pull, including a laden car and a burdened trailer. This is a minimum target figure for permitting reasonable performance while not causing delays to other vehicles and having enough power to overtake.
Most caravans have a Maximum Towing Weight (MTPLM) between 1200kg and 1800kg. For towing a caravan weighing up to 1600kg, you will need at least 100bhp.
For a caravan weighing between 1600kg-1800kg, we recommend 120 – 140bhp.
How do I know if my car can tow a caravan?
The best way to find out if your car can tow a caravan is to consult your car’s owner’s manual. The owner’s manual will have the specific towing capacity for your car. You can also check the towing capacity by looking up your car’s specs online.
If you’re still unsure, you can always take your car to a mechanic or dealership, and they can help you determine if your car can tow a caravan.
What Happens If Your Car Isn’t Powerful Enough To Tow?
If you try to tow a caravan with a car that’s not powerful enough, you may damage your car’s engine or transmission. You could also have problems stopping the caravan, leading to an accident.
It’s always best to err on the side of caution and make sure your car is powerful enough to tow your caravan before attempting to do so.
What cars have a 3.5-tonne towing capacity?
Some examples of cars with a 3.5-tonne towing capacity are the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Jaguar F-Pace, Land Rover Discovery, Mercedes GLE, and Porsche Cayenne.
These are just a few examples – many other cars have a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes or more. Consult your car’s owner’s manual to find out its specific towing capacity.
Is it better to tow a caravan with a 4×4 or an estate car?
There are pros and cons to both options. 4x4s typically have better traction and stability, which can be helpful when towing a caravan. However, they can also be more expensive to buy and run than estate cars.
Estate cars typically have more space for luggage and passengers, which can be helpful if you’re planning on taking a long road trip with your caravan. They also tend to be more fuel-efficient than 4x4s.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Talk to a mechanic or dealership to get expert advice on which option would be best for you.
