We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1390 kg kg with this Ford.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1390 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost 150 with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1390 kg is a match just suitable for most journeys but also with some limitations.
The motor preformance of the Ford is in general fairly 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
218
178
Mountains
Risk of snaking
240
108
Weight ratio: 89% (102% of kerbweight)
1390 kg
1569 kg
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Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost 150 Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1390 kg.
Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost 150: 1569 kg.
Noseweight: 75 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 89%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 218 points).
Speeds of 72 mph (116 km/h) to 78 mph (125 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 178 points).
Slightly higher revs (2100 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 18.7 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally good (score to compare 240 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 16%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3500 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 63 mph (102 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Ford 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 89%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 102%.
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 75 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 108 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 fairly good.
Proper and careful loading is still important!
It's a fairly good match, only for experienced (caravan) drivers and with some limitations.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.