We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1320 kg kg with this Seat.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1250 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Seat Leon 1.5 TSI with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1250 kg is a match just suitable for most journeys but also with some limitations.
The motor preformance of the Seat is in general fairly good. But the weight of the Caravan with a User Payload (130 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
209
210
Mountains
Risk of snaking
234
122
Weight ratio: 86% (101% of kerbweight)
1250 kg
1449 kg
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Seat Leon 1.5 TSI Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1250 kg.
Seat Leon 1.5 TSI: 1449 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 86%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 209 points).
Speeds of 70 mph (113 km/h) to 76 mph (123 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is more than enough power at low engine speeds (score to compare 210 points).
Slightly higher revs (1900 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 19.5 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally good (score to compare 234 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 17%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3100 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Seat is sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 86%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 101%.
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 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 122 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 fairly good.
Proper and careful loading is still important!
It's a fairly good match, only for experienced (caravan) drivers and with some limitations.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.