It is an often stated misconception that the best cars for towing caravans are the biggest. Granted, large 4×4s and estates crop up in every list due to their impressive grip and power. However traits such as handling and acceleration are equally as important in towing. And when this is taken into account some surprises can occur.
This year the Caravan Club voted for the Towcar Of The Year , and the result threw up one of the most familar names in family motoring. The Volkswagen Golf particularly impressed the 10 judges with strong performances when towing in a variety of situations, practicality as a caravanning family car and high quality cabin.
28 cars tested in this year’s competition were put through their paces at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. Each car was tested for its towing ability, acceleration, braking, ability to cope with demanding hill starts and an assessment of usability in terms of everyday caravanning.
Explaining the judges’ decision to award the Golf the top accolade, driving judge Barry Williams commented: ‘Absolutely faultless stability made the Golf steadfast on the test track and when the punchy engine had whisked its way to 60 mph it was still ready to accelerate, even in sixth gear. Agile handling enables the car to tackle the most demanding route. The Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS is a truly capable towing vehicle and a worthy winner.’
Below is a list of the winners in each category:
Under £16,000
Kia Soul Shaker 1.6 CRDi
£16,000 to £20,000
Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI
£20,000 to £25,000
Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS2
£25,000 to £32,000
Volvo XC60 SE D5 AWD
Over £32,000
Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE
All-Wheel Drive Vehicles Under 1800kg
Skoda Superb Elegance 3.6 V6 4×4 DSG
All-Wheel Drive Vehicles Over 1800kg
Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE
Overall Winner
Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI
