Dacia Duster SCe 115 Bi-Fuel Caravan as an example
Advice with maximum weight
We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1370 kg kg with this Dacia.
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 Dacia Duster SCe 115 Bi-Fuel with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1250 kg is in general a good match and suitable for journeys on most kinds of roads, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
The motor preformance of the Dacia is in general just sufficient. But the weight of the Caravan with a User Payload (80 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is quite heavy, but no problem if the caravan is well loaded and the driving speed is not too fast.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
169
75
Mountains
Risk of snaking
147
142
Weight ratio: 81% (93% of kerbweight)
1250 kg
1540 kg
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Dacia Duster SCe 115 Bi-Fuel Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1250 kg.
Dacia Duster SCe 115 Bi-Fuel: 1540 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 81%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 169 points).
Speeds of 65 mph (105 km/h) to 72 mph (116 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only very moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 75 points).
Slightly higher revs (3200 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 27.3 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally sufficient (score to compare 147 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads but the performance is not that great. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 10%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines higher revs (5300 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 54 mph (87 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Dacia 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 81%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 93%.
There is a small chance of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are great at high speed. For drivers with knowledge of, and experience in driving a caravan it is safe to drive, but proper and careful loading is still important! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is worth considering.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 142 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 just sufficient.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a good match, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.