Caravan holidays are gaining popularity in the UK, offering a convenient, affordable, and enjoyable getaway option. Choosing the right tow car is crucial, especially in today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
The Caravan and Motorhome Club (CMC) Towcar Awards, known for their expert insights, now include a lineup of nine impressive pure EV contenders, signaling a shift towards electrified towing options.
Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Platinum Edition:
- Overall Tow Car of the Year and Class Winner for Caravan Weight Over 1,700kg
- Kerbweight: 2,500kg
- Noseweight: 140kg
- Caravan Weight (as tested): 2,125kg
- Max Towing Capacity (braked): 3,500kg
- Price (as tested): £78,710
The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Platinum Edition has long been a standout tow car, and it’s now crowned the Tow Car of the Year. The latest plug-in E-Hybrid model combines a petrol V6 with a battery and motor, offering a formidable 456bhp.
This translates to a brisk 0-62mph in five seconds, a top speed of 157mph, and an electric-only range of up to 22 miles. While not matching diesel efficiency, it’s a cleaner option for urban driving and offers significant tax benefits for company car users.
Skoda Enyaq Coupé iV 82kWh vRS:
- Class Winner for Caravan Weight 1,100kg-1,300kg
- Kerbweight: 2,307kg
- Noseweight: 75kg
- Caravan Weight (as tested): 1,200kg
- Max Towing Capacity (braked): 1,200kg
- Price (as tested): £55,865
Skoda’s Enyaq Coupé iV 82kWh vRS offers a blend of power and comfort, especially suited for lighter caravans. With its 294bhp twin motors, it shines when towing, despite a seemingly limited towing capacity.
The car’s four-wheel drive configuration and stable road presence make it an appealing choice for those seeking a versatile towing companion.
Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG SE L:
- Class Winner for Caravan Weight 1,300kg-1,500kg
- Kerbweight: 1,577kg
- Noseweight: 80kg
- Caravan Weight (as tested): 1,340kg
- Max Towing Capacity (braked): 1,600kg
- Price (as tested): £35,535
The Skoda Octavia Estate, in its 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG SE L configuration, stands out as a well-rounded family car. Boasting a blend of power and sophistication, it excels at towing, particularly with the DSG automatic gearbox.
With a premium interior and ample cargo space, it offers excellent value for both everyday use and caravanning adventures.
Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor:
- Class Winner for Caravan Weight 1,500kg-1,700kg
- Kerbweight: 2,069kg
- Noseweight: 90kg
- Caravan Weight (as tested): 1,500kg
- Max Towing Capacity (braked): 1,500kg
- Price (as tested): £46,050
The Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor impresses with its remarkable 400-mile range, addressing a common concern for EVs used for towing. While it may not offer the same elevated view as SUVs, its large boot space easily accommodates loads.
It handles dynamic tests with finesse, demonstrating stability even in challenging conditions. The Polestar 2’s spirited driving experience and refined interior further enhance its appeal.
Conclusion:
In the evolving landscape of tow cars, electric options are gaining prominence. The 2023 CMC Towcar Awards showcase a range of impressive EV contenders, underlining the industry’s commitment to providing exceptional towing experiences.
Whether you opt for the efficiency of the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, the style of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, the power of the Skoda Enyaq Coupé iV 82kWh vRS, the versatility of the Skoda Octavia Estate, or the endurance of the Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor, each offers unique strengths for your caravanning adventures.
