We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1000 kg kg with this Volkswagen.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1000 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Volkswagen Polo 1.6 TDI with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1000 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. And also 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 very good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
184
179
Mountains
Risk of snaking
190
196
Weight ratio: 69% (80% of kerbweight)
1000 kg
1447 kg
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Volkswagen Polo 1.6 TDI Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1000 kg.
Volkswagen Polo 1.6 TDI: 1447 kg.
Noseweight: 65 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 69%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 184 points).
Speeds of 66 mph (106 km/h) to 72 mph (116 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 179 points).
Slightly higher revs (1800 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 22.6 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 190 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 the speed drops despite high revs.
A speed of 57 mph (92 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Volkswagen 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 69%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 80%.
The chance of snaking is small even at higher speeds.
Recommended noseweight is 50 - 65 kg.
Towball limit is 50 kg (Check this on the type plate of your towbar!)
Safe speed up to 60 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 196 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.
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.