We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1360 kg kg with this Volkswagen.
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 Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI 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 Volkswagen is in general more than sufficient. But the weight of the Caravan with a User Payload (90 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
173
148
Mountains
Risk of snaking
163
138
Weight ratio: 82% (95% of kerbweight)
1250 kg
1521 kg
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Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1250 kg.
Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI: 1521 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 82%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 173 points).
Speeds of 65 mph (105 km/h) to 71 mph (115 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 148 points).
Slightly higher revs (2000 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 26 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 163 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 13%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines the speed drops despite high revs.
A speed of 55 mph (88 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Volkswagen 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 82%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 95%.
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 138 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.
If the caravan is well loaded 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.