The BMW X3 xDrive 20i with a Sterling Continental 580 with an actual weight of 1688 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the BMW is in general good. But the weight of the Sterling with a User Payload (156 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is quite heavy. Proper and careful loading is essential and don't drive too fast. Remember to load your caravan correctly, insuring that the noseweight of the caravan is sufficient and the weight is distributed properly!
Flat roads
Towing Performance
260
217
Mountains
Risk of snaking
299
113
Weight ratio: 85% (95% of kerbweight)
1688 kg
1995 kg
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BMW X3 xDrive 20i Sterling Continental 580
Actual Weights
Sterling Continental 580: 1688 kg.
BMW X3 xDrive 20i: 1995 kg.
Noseweight: 90 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 85%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally very good on flat roads (performance score to compare 260 points).
Speeds of 81 mph (130 km/h) to 86 mph (138 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is more than enough power at low engine speeds (score to compare 217 points).
Higher revs (1800 rpm) are usually not necessary on flat roads, under most circumstances.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 16.1 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally very good (score to compare 299 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 16%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3500 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 71 mph (114 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the BMW is more than sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, you will need a B+E (or B96) driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 85%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 95%.
The risk of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving exist. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are so great that it could be dangerous. Only if the driver has knowledge of and experience in driving a caravan it should be safe to drive. Proper and careful loading is essential! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is recommended.
Recommended noseweight is 90 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 113 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is good.
Proper and careful loading is still important!
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.