We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1580 kg kg with this BMW.
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 BMW 320i xDrive with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1250 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 very good. And also the weight of the Caravan with a User Payload (-130 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is very good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
268
244
Mountains
Risk of snaking
332
192
Weight ratio: 68% (76% of kerbweight)
1250 kg
1840 kg
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BMW 320i xDrive Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1250 kg.
BMW 320i xDrive: 1840 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 68%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally very good on flat roads (performance score to compare 268 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 244 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 12.7 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally very good (score to compare 332 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads (up to 25%). Not even on Hill starts.
On motorway inclines higher revs (2900 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 74 mph (119 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, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 68%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 76%.
The chance of snaking is relatively small at normal speed, if the caravan is well loaded.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 192 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.
Safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.