Stewart P replied on 28/01/2020 18:18
Posted on 28/01/2020 18:18
I've been towing a caravan for almost 6 years, the first 3 with a Freelander 2 XS TD4 manual and the balance with one of the last Freelander's built, a SD4 Metropolis that only came with an auto gearbox and has a high spec with lots of features that would normally come as extras, including a full sized spare wheel. The current car has 190bhp, 420Nm of torque, approx 1800 kerbside weight and can take a tow ball loading of 150kgs. Both cars have been fantastic towing vehicles of the two caravans we have owned, both single axles and slightly under 1500kgs weight.
However, now that our current car is 5 years old and is well out of warranty I've been looking at replacements but am struggling on finding a car with similar properties. I'm resigned to having to have a "skinny" spare wheel and 100kgs max tow ball loading but most potentially suitable cars seem to be longer, (and clumsier), with 7 seats I don't need, have a list price with the essential features over the £40,000 threshold that means you have to pay the government a significant premium on the road fund licence for the first 5 years.
Any sensible suggestions? I would like to buy an almost new, up to 2 yrs old to keep the cost down, keep the list price new under the £40k threshold, with a reversing camera, heated seats and leather trim if possible.
Stewart P
Caravanner from West Midlands