We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1600 kg kg with this Volvo.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1600 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Volvo S60 T5 with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1600 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Volvo is in general very good. 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
280
280
Mountains
Risk of snaking
340
120
Weight ratio: 85% (95% of kerbweight)
1600 kg
1886 kg
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Volvo S60 T5 Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1600 kg.
Volvo S60 T5: 1886 kg.
Noseweight: 85 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 85%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally very good on flat roads (performance score to compare 280 points).
Speeds of 83 mph (134 km/h) to 88 mph (142 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is a lot of power at low engine speeds (score to compare 280 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 12.2 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally very good (score to compare 340 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads (up to 25%). Not even on Hill starts.
On motorway inclines higher revs (2700 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 76 mph (122 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Volvo is 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 85 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 120 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 very 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.