The BMW X5 3.0d [7-seats] with a Sterling Elite Explorer with an actual weight of 1804 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 Sterling with a User Payload (160 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is very good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
277
329
Mountains
Risk of snaking
330
185
Weight ratio: 70% (76% of kerbweight)
1804 kg
2560 kg
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BMW X5 3.0d [7-seats] Sterling Elite Explorer
Actual Weights
Sterling Elite Explorer: 1804 kg.
BMW X5 3.0d [7-seats]: 2560 kg.
Noseweight: 100 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 70%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally very good on flat roads (performance score to compare 277 points).
Speeds of 84 mph (136 km/h) to 89 mph (144 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is a lot of power at low engine speeds (score to compare 329 points).
Higher revs (1600 rpm) are usually not necessary on flat roads, under most circumstances.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 15.1 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally very good (score to compare 330 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads (up to 25%). Not even on Hill starts.
On motorway inclines hardly any higher revs 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, you will need a B+E driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 70%. 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 100 kg.
Safe speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 185 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.