1.8 Vmatic Towing

[1karlbb]

Anybody have any experiences of towing with the new 1.8 petrol models? Weights and hp look good for our small 1250kg van, but what about suspension and torque etc?

Wil only tow about 2000 miles a year and solo about 6 so struggling to justify diesel premium and potential complications.

Any experience or technical thoughts welcome....

[Valvematic]

I'd imagine it will be hardwork, performance and economy drop off when the car itself is fully laden with luggage, belongings etc, 2 adults and 2 children.

[sproutdreamer]

I sometimes tow a small trailer with a 1.8 auto-my feeling is that the 1.8 is not quite big enough to tow a caravan. Not just the moderate power but the car is quite light a swell. I have towed caravans and boats with 2000 and 2200 cars and there seems a lot of difference between those and a 1.8.

[1karlbb]

Well that's why I ask - the van weighs safely within the recommended 85% of the car's weight, an the listed bhp on paper is more than enough, nose weight limits appear safe etc and also well within the car's towing limit. I know previous petrol models figures weren't particularly good but hoped the new Vmatic engine range may be better?

Do you know the weight of the trailer?