We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1400 kg kg with this Subaru.
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 Subaru XV 1.6i with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1250 kg is in general a good match and suitable for journeys on most kinds of roads, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
The motor preformance of the Subaru is in general just sufficient. And also the weight of the Caravan with a User Payload (50 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is pretty good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
166
88
Mountains
Risk of snaking
139
168
Weight ratio: 74% (84% of kerbweight)
1250 kg
1683 kg
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Subaru XV 1.6i Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1250 kg.
Subaru XV 1.6i: 1683 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 74%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 166 points).
Speeds of 65 mph (105 km/h) to 71 mph (115 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only very moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 88 points).
Slightly higher revs (3000 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 28.8 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally sufficient (score to compare 139 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads but the performance is not that great. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes from 11% to 12%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (6100 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 53 mph (85 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Subaru 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 74%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 84%.
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 62 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 168 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 just sufficient.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a good match, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.