We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1400 kg kg with this Renault.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1400 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Renault Megane Blue dCi 115 with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1400 kg is a match just suitable for most journeys but also with some limitations.
The motor preformance of the Renault is in general more than sufficient. But the weight of the Caravan with a normally distributed User Payload (200 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
189
155
Mountains
Risk of snaking
193
110
Weight ratio: 88% (101% of kerbweight)
1400 kg
1590 kg
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Renault Megane Blue dCi 115 Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1400 kg.
Renault Megane Blue dCi 115: 1590 kg.
Noseweight: 75 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 88%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 189 points).
Speeds of 68 mph (110 km/h) to 74 mph (119 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 155 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 24.3 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 193 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 15%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3700 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 58 mph (93 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Renault is more than 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 88%. 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 75 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 110 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 more than sufficient.
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.