If you’re looking for a tug that won’t let you down, these are among the cars to choose
NOTHING SPOILS a caravanning holiday like breaking down on the road. Picking a reliable tow car will keep the chances of that happening to a minimum.
There are plenty of studies and surveys out there to help you track down a really dependable vehicle. For example, in compiling this list, we have leaned heavily on the What Car? Reliability Survey, as well as other reliability and driver satisfaction studies.
Some makes are generally safe bets, such as Lexus. But not all models from a given brand are created equal, so it’s worth doing some digging into the strengths and weaknesses of specific vehicles. Your choice of engine and gearbox can also make a difference.
Whether you plan to tow with a crossover, an SUV or an estate, there are reliable examples to consider. These are a few of our favourite dependable tow cars.
LEXUS RX 350H PREMIUM PACK
Price £59,950 Kerbweight From 2040kg* 85% match 1734kg Towing limit 2000kg
Lexus tends to be at the sharp end of any reliability or owner satisfaction survey. In the past 30 years, it has won many fans, thanks to better reliability and excellent customer service.
The current RX has only just gone on sale, so there isn’t much reliability data on this model, but it seems unlikely Lexus has forgotten how to build durable cars. It’s a pretty safe bet that the RX won’t let you down.
For 2023, the RX is available with three petrol-electric hybrid powertrains. The 350h is the least powerful, but with 250hp, it will accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds. It should cope with a sensibly matched van, although the RX450h+ plug-in hybrid and the RX500h have extra punch, albeit along with higher price tags.
In the past, Lexus tended to lag behind the likes of BMW and Mercedes for driver appeal. The new RX has closed the gap to the BMW X5, with sharp handling that bodes well for stability while towing.
Luxury cabin
There’s ample space for five inside. The boot is big enough for a fortnight’s luggage, and the rear seats split and fold 40/20/40 for more room.
You won’t find the new RX on the used market yet, but earlier generations of the car are available, at big savings.
BMW 320I TOURING M SPORT
Price £42,865 Kerbweight 1660kg 85% match 1411kg Towing limit 1600kg
If you’ve read Nigel Hutson’s review (issue 464), you’ll know the 3 Series Touring is a very fine tow car. It should also prove a reliable one.
As a brand, BMW can
