Choosing the right tow car can make the difference between a relaxed journey and a stressful one. The best towing vehicles combine strong pulling power, stability, and enough kerbweight to keep even large caravans under control. Here are 10 of the best options available in the UK.

The Top 10

VehicleTowing CapacityKerbweight (approx.)Used Price Range
Land Rover Discovery3,500 kg2,294 kg£30,000–65,000
Skoda Kodiaq2,000–2,500 kg1,680 kg£18,000–35,000
Kia Sorento2,500 kg1,880 kg£22,000–40,000
Hyundai Santa Fe2,500 kg1,860 kg£20,000–38,000
VW Touareg3,500 kg2,170 kg£28,000–55,000
Ford Ranger3,500 kg2,150 kg£20,000–40,000
Mitsubishi Outlander2,000 kg1,745 kg£15,000–30,000
BMW X53,500 kg2,190 kg£30,000–60,000
Volvo XC902,700 kg2,070 kg£25,000–50,000
SsangYong Rexton3,500 kg2,125 kg£18,000–30,000

1. Land Rover Discovery

The Discovery is the benchmark tow car. With 3,500 kg capacity, a kerbweight of over 2,200 kg, and advanced tow assist technology, it handles even the largest caravans with ease. The air suspension self-levels when loaded, and the optional Advanced Tow Assist makes reversing a trailer straightforward.

2. Skoda Kodiaq

The Kodiaq offers 2,000–2,500 kg towing capacity depending on the engine, at a price significantly below premium SUVs. It’s spacious, practical, and has won multiple tow car awards. The 2.0 TDI 4x4 version is the pick for towing.

3. Kia Sorento

The Sorento combines 2,500 kg towing capacity with seven seats, a seven-year warranty, and strong value. The diesel version is the best for towing, with plenty of low-down torque. A hybrid version is also available but has lower towing limits.

4. Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe matches the Sorento on towing capacity at 2,500 kg and adds a slightly more upmarket interior. A five-year unlimited-mileage warranty adds peace of mind, and the diesel engine handles long motorway tows comfortably.

5. VW Touareg

With 3,500 kg towing capacity and a premium cabin, the Touareg is a serious tow car wrapped in luxury. The 3.0 V6 diesel provides effortless pulling power, and the air suspension keeps the outfit stable at all speeds.

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6. Ford Ranger

The Ranger is the go-to choice for heavy-duty towing. As a pickup truck, it offers 3,500 kg capacity and a robust chassis designed for serious work. It’s also one of the more affordable 3,500 kg options on the used market.

7. Mitsubishi Outlander

The Outlander is a versatile family SUV with a 2,000 kg towing capacity. The PHEV version is popular for its low running costs, though the diesel offers better towing performance. It’s well-priced on the used market.

8. BMW X5

The X5 offers 3,500 kg towing capacity along with BMW’s renowned driving dynamics. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, and the diesel models have strong torque for effortless towing. Premium pricing is the trade-off.

9. Volvo XC90

Volvo’s flagship SUV offers 2,700 kg towing capacity with a focus on safety and comfort. The XC90 is one of the most refined motorway cruisers on this list, making long towing trips less tiring. Available in mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and diesel forms.

10. SsangYong Rexton

The Rexton is the value pick of this list. With a full 3,500 kg towing capacity and prices significantly below European rivals, it offers more towing ability per pound than any other vehicle here. Build quality has improved significantly in recent years.

Final Thoughts

The best tow car for you depends on your caravan’s weight, your budget, and how you use the vehicle day-to-day. For maximum towing capacity, the Discovery, Touareg, X5, Ranger, and Rexton all offer the 3,500 kg maximum. For a great all-rounder at a sensible price, the Kia Sorento and Skoda Kodiaq are hard to beat.

Towing capacities may vary by engine and specification. Always check the specific vehicle’s documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Several vehicles offer the maximum 3,500 kg braked towing capacity, including the Land Rover Discovery, VW Touareg, BMW X5, Ford Ranger, and SsangYong Rexton. These are the best choices for towing large caravans, horse boxes, and heavy trailers.
The Skoda Kodiaq offers excellent towing ability (up to 2,500 kg) at a lower price point than premium alternatives. The SsangYong Rexton is another strong value option with a full 3,500 kg towing capacity at a significantly lower price than rivals.
Yes, many SUVs are excellent tow cars. The key factors are towing capacity, kerbweight (for the 85% stability rule), torque output, and whether the vehicle has a properly rated towbar. Most mid-size and large SUVs can tow at least 2,000 kg.
Diesel engines have traditionally been preferred for towing due to their higher torque at low RPM, which helps with pulling heavy loads uphill. However, modern petrol and hybrid engines are increasingly capable towers. Electric vehicles can also tow, though range is significantly reduced.
Key features include high towing capacity, good torque, electronic stability control with trailer sway mitigation, a properly rated towbar, and adequate payload. Automatic transmission is generally easier for towing, and hill start assist is helpful with a heavy trailer.

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