The Lexus IS 220d [short ratio] with a Swift Charisma 560 with an actual weight of 1450 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Lexus is in general good. And also the weight of the Swift with a User Payload (162 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is not too heavy, if the caravan is well loaded.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
237
262
Mountains
Risk of snaking
291
146
Weight ratio: 78% (87% of kerbweight)
1450 kg
1860 kg
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Lexus IS 220d [short ratio] Swift Charisma 560
Actual Weights
Swift Charisma 560: 1450 kg.
Lexus IS 220d [short ratio]: 1860 kg.
Noseweight: 80 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 78%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 237 points).
Speeds of 76 mph (122 km/h) to 81 mph (131 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is a lot of power at low engine speeds (score to compare 262 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 17.1 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally very good (score to compare 291 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 21%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (2300 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 67 mph (108 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Lexus is sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, you will need a B+E (or B96) driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 78%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 87%.
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 80 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 146 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 good.
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.