Best Used Cars for Towing Caravans
Planning a caravan holiday? We identify the best used cars for towing caravans, from powerful SUVs to practical estates. Our guide highlights top models, key features, and expert tips to help you find the perfect towing partner for your next adventure.
The Cazoo editorial team
Published on 14 October 2025 | 20 mins read
Planning a caravan holiday is exciting, but finding the right car to tow your home-away-from-home can feel like a bit of a mission. You need something with enough muscle to pull a heavy load, but the best tow cars offer so much more than just power. They should be comfortable for long journeys, practical enough for all your gear, and reliable.
Whether you’re looking for a sturdy SUV, a sleek estate, or even a roomy people carrier, there are plenty of great used cars up to the task. We've put together this guide to walk you through some of the best options and give you a few handy caravan towing tips to make your search a little easier.
What makes a car good for towing?
First things first, let’s talk torque. You’ll want a car with plenty of it, especially at lower revs, as this is what gives you the pulling power you need. It’s also vital that the car's towing capacity is equal to or greater than the total weight of your caravan. Don't worry, we'll explain how to check that.
But it’s not all about brawn. Modern tow cars come with clever tech like anti-sway systems to keep you steady on the road. Things like fuel economy and good visibility are also important. Diesel engines are a popular choice for their efficiency and strong performance, but there are excellent petrol, hybrid, and even electric options available.
Our top 10 used cars for towing
Ready to find your perfect match? Here are ten of our favourite used cars that are brilliant for towing caravans.
1. Land Rover Discovery (2017-Present)
It’s no surprise the Land Rover Discovery is on this list. These cars are famous for handling tough jobs with ease. With a mix of petrol and diesel engines, you can find a model that fits your life. The best part? They all boast an impressive braked towing capacity of 3,500kg, so you won’t have to compromise on power.
The Discovery is also incredibly practical and refined, with room for up to seven people and a massive 1,137 litres of boot space (with five seats in use). It feels premium, but if your budget is a bit tighter, an older Discovery 4 (2009-2016) is still a fantastic tow car.
Search for a used Land Rover Discovery
2. Skoda Superb (2015-2023)
If an SUV isn’t your thing, the Skoda Superb is a brilliant alternative. Available as a saloon or a super-practical estate, it’s well-built, spacious, and comfortable for long drives. Most models have a braked towing capacity of 2,000kg, but if you need a little extra, look for the ‘Scout’ versions, which can handle up to 2,200kg. The Superb is a great reminder that you don't always need a huge 4x4 to tow a caravan.
Search for a used Skoda Superb
3. Mercedes-Benz EQC (2019-2024)
If you’re thinking about going electric, the Mercedes-Benz EQC shows that you don’t have to give up your caravan adventures. This stylish electric SUV offers a braked towing capacity of 1,800kg and up to 260 miles of range. It’s packed with cutting-edge tech and offers a quiet, refined driving experience. While you’ll need to plan your charging stops on long trips, the EQC is a fantastic, future-proof choice.
Search for a used Mercedes-Benz EQC
4. BMW 5 Series (2017-2023)
The BMW 5 Series is known as a luxury executive car, but it’s also a bit of a secret weapon for caravan owners. Offered as a saloon or a stylish 'Touring' estate, it combines sophistication with serious towing muscle. Most models can tow a braked weight of around 2,000kg. For extra grip on slippery surfaces, look for models with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It’s a refined choice for towing in style.
Search for a used BMW 5 Series
5. Kia Sorento (2020-Present)
The Kia Sorento is a standout in the large SUV market, especially for towing. It’s practical, packed with features, and has some serious pulling power. Diesel models are the champions here, with a braked towing capacity of up to 2,000kg. Hybrid versions are still very capable, pulling between 1,350kg and 1,650kg. Plus, all-wheel drive comes as standard on recent models, and you might find one with the remainder of Kia’s fantastic 7-year warranty.
6. Dacia Duster (2017-2024)
Finding a budget-friendly tow car can be tough, but the Dacia Duster is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune. It’s a no-nonsense SUV that can tow a braked weight of up to 1,500kg, which is perfect for many caravans. With a big boot and roof rails as standard, it’s ready for adventure. For towing, it’s best to go for one of the more powerful engine options and consider the capable 4x4 system if you plan on venturing off the beaten path.
Search for a used Dacia Duster
7. Volvo V60 (2018-2024)
Volvos are built to last, and the V60 estate is a perfect example. It blends practicality with a premium finish, making it a classy and dependable tow car. Towing capacities vary, but the B6 petrol models can pull a braked load of up to 2,000kg and come with all-wheel drive. Other versions can still tow between 1,300kg and 1,800kg. True to Volvo’s reputation, it’s also packed with safety features to protect you and your loved ones.
8. Skoda Karoq (2017-Present)
The Skoda Karoq was named Towcar of the Year in 2023 by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, so it's fair to say it knows what it's doing. This mid-size SUV is a fantastic all-rounder, offering great value, practicality, and tech. Depending on the model, it can tow a braked weight of up to 2,000kg. We’d recommend finding one with the four-wheel-drive system, which can make manoeuvring your caravan on a grassy campsite pitch much less stressful.
9. Nissan Qashqai (2021-Present)
As one of the UK’s best-selling cars, the Nissan Qashqai is a familiar and reliable choice. It's practical, user-friendly, and has a braked towing capacity of up to 1,800kg. To get that maximum pulling power, you’ll want to look for the 1.6-litre four-wheel-drive diesel models. The Qashqai is a family favourite for a reason, and higher-spec models often come with handy extras like roof rails.
Search for a used Nissan Qashqai
10. Volkswagen Caravelle (2015-2024)
Looking for something a bit different? The Volkswagen Caravelle is a people carrier that’s brilliant for towing. It offers tons of space for up to seven people and has an impressive braked towing capacity of up to 2,500kg, thanks to its strong 2.0-litre diesel engine. It might have van-like looks, but if you need maximum space for a large family and all their gear, the Caravelle is hard to beat.
Search for a used Volkswagen Caravelle
Things to consider before you buy
Finding the right car is just the start. Here are a few final caravan towing tips to keep in mind.
- Check the history: Cars used for towing often cover more miles. This isn't a bad thing, but it’s always wise to check the service history to make sure it’s been well looked after.
- Think about practicality: Do you need roof rails for extra storage? Does the car have a tow bar already fitted? Think about what you’ll need for your trips and check if the car you’re looking at has it.
- Know the rule of 85: This is a guideline from caravanning clubs. It suggests that the weight of your loaded caravan should be no more than 85% of your car's kerb weight. This isn’t a legal rule, but it’s a good safety practice, especially for new towers.
- Check your driving licence: If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, you can usually drive a car and trailer combination up to 8,250kg. If you passed on or after that date, you can tow a trailer up to 3,500kg. It’s always best to double-check the gov.uk website to be sure.