Best Cars for Towing a Caravan

Caravanning is a sense of freedom you just don’t get with other holidays! However, choosing the right tow car is just as important as the caravan itself. 

From family road trips across the UK to longer getaways, you’ll need a lease vehicle that’s powerful, stable, and comfortable on long journeys. 

The good news is that there are plenty of great cars on the market. Whether you’re after a spacious SUV or a practical estate, each car in this blog combines towing capacity with everyday essentials. We discuss: 

Before diving into the best cars for towing a caravan, it’s worth taking a step back and thinking about what really matters when choosing the right vehicle: 

• Towing capacity - The most important figure is how much weight your car can legally and safely tow. A car with a higher towing capacity will give you more flexibility if you’re pulling a larger caravan. 
• Kerb weight - A heavier car offers better stability. The general rule is that your caravan should not exceed 85% of the car's kerb weight.
• Engine power and torque - While engine size matters, torque is the real star of the show. A car with plenty of low-down pulling power makes it easier to get moving from a standstill. 
• Suspension and stability - Safety features like trailer sway control, electronic stability control, and self-levelling suspension help keep things safe and smooth.
• Comfort - A caravanning holiday usually involves hours on the road, so comfort shouldn’t be overlooked. Supportive seats, a smooth ride, and a modern infotainment system are essential. 

If you're planning to tow a caravan, choosing the right car matters. You need strong towing capacity, good stability, and enough comfort for long trips. Here's a list of five of the best tow cars available this year, based on up-to-date reviews and specs.

Yes, some electric cars are capable of towing a caravan, but it’s an area where you’ll need to do your homework. Not all EVS are rated to tow, and those that are often have much lower towing capacity than equivalent petrol or diesel models. 

The main limitation is range. Towing a caravan can reduce an EV’s mileage significantly, meaning you’ll need to plan charging stops more carefully on longer journeys. 

That said, models like the Tesla Model X, Kia EV6, and BMW iX can pull respectable weights, offering strong instant torque. 

This is a question many caravanners have asked. In the past, manuals were the go-to choice, especially for tackling inclines and giving drivers more control. 

However, today’s automatics have come a long way. They’re smooth, efficient, and often better suited for towing. Many large SUVs and estates designed for towing are now automatic-only, so if comfort and convenience are priorities, an automatic is often the best bet. 

Bigger isn’t always better, but when towing a caravan, it usually helps. As a general rule, a 2.0-litre engine is recommended if you’re towing a large caravan. 

Smaller engines, such as 1.5-litre units, can tow lighter caravans, but they may struggle on hills or when fully loaded with passengers or holiday gear. 

Caravanning is one of the best ways to explore the countryside and beyond, but the right car makes all the difference. 

From towing capacity to comfort and practicality, choosing the right vehicle ensures every journey is safer and more enjoyable. 

Whether you’re planning a family holiday to Cornwall or a European road trip, leasing a capable tow car gives you access to the latest SUVs, estates, and 4x4s at a predictable monthly price.