Towing a caravan, boat, or trailer isn’t just about hooking up and hitting the road—it’s about safety, stability, and confidence. Whether you’re planning a family camping trip, hauling a boat to the lake, or towing heavy gear for work, the right car makes all the difference. The What Car? Tow Car Awards 2025, partnered with the Camping and Caravanning Club, rigorously tested 36 vehicles to find the best tow cars for every budget and need. From compact SUVs to luxury hybrids, these winners excel in stability, power, and practicality.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the top seven tow cars of 2025, sharing detailed reviews, performance stats, and real-world insights from the awards. Expect a comparison table, a buying guide, and answers to common towing questions to help you choose the perfect vehicle. Let’s find the best car for your towing adventures in 2025!
Why Choose a Great Tow Car?
Towing demands more than just a powerful engine. A great tow car balances stability, performance, and everyday usability. Here’s why the 2025 winners stand out:
- Stability at Speed: Tested at up to 70 mph and in emergency lane changes, these cars keep trailers steady, reducing sway and boosting safety.
- Powerful Performance: Strong torque ensures smooth acceleration for overtaking and tackling hills, even with heavy loads.
- Practical Features: Spacious boots, easy-to-use tow bars, and towing aids like reversing cameras make hitching and hauling hassle-free.
- Versatility: These vehicles shine as daily drivers, offering comfort, tech, and efficiency when not towing.
- Variety: From budget-friendly options to luxury models, there’s a tow car for every need, including electric vehicles (EVs) for eco-conscious drivers.
The What Car? tests, conducted at the Horiba-MIRA track with Swift caravans, divided cars into four weight classes and two EV categories to match various trailer sizes. The awards emphasize the 85% rule: for safety, your trailer’s weight should be no more than 85% of the car’s curb weight, especially for new towers. Let’s explore the top performers!
Top 7 Cars for Towing in 2025
1. Nissan Qashqai: Best for Lightweight Towing (Up to 1549kg)
The Nissan Qashqai is a compact SUV that punches above its weight for towing lightweight caravans or trailers. Its mild-hybrid engine combines efficiency with surprising towing capability, making it ideal for budget-conscious campers or small families. During What Car? testing, it towed a Swift caravan with ease, proving its worth in the lightweight category.
- Towing Performance: Accelerated from 30–60 mph in 12.2 seconds while towing, maintaining rock-solid stability at the 60 mph legal limit. Its precise steering and trailer stability system ensured minimal sway during lane changes, even at higher speeds. The Qashqai’s compact size didn’t compromise its ability to control the caravan, making it a reliable choice for novice towers.
- Engine and Power: The 1.3L mild-hybrid petrol engine delivers 156 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 6-speed manual or CVT automatic. This setup provides enough grunt for overtaking and gentle hill climbs without straining.
- Practicality: The boot, with its adjustable floor, swallowed a full load of holiday luggage, leaving room for camping gear. The reversing camera offers a clear view of the tow ball, simplifying hitching. A tow bar is available as an optional extra, with easy-to-connect electrics.
- Daily Driving: Quiet and smooth on highways, the Qashqai’s cabin is well-finished with soft-touch materials and a modern infotainment system. It earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Fuel economy hovers around 45 mpg solo, dropping to ~30 mpg while towing.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~1,800kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£30,000.
- Who It’s For: First-time towers, small families, or budget buyers needing a versatile SUV for occasional towing.
Why It Wins: The Qashqai’s affordability, stability, and everyday practicality make it a top pick for lightweight towing tasks.
2. Volkswagen Passat: Best for Mid-Weight Towing (1550–1699kg)
The Volkswagen Passat, a repeat winner from 2024, continues to impress in the mid-weight category. Its estate design offers ample space and towing stability, making it a favorite for family road trips with mid-sized caravans. The What Car? tests highlighted its composure and versatility.
- Towing Performance: The Passat delivered exceptional stability at high speeds, even at 70 mph on the test track. In the lane-change test, it handled three speed levels with precise steering, keeping the caravan obediently in line. Its trailer stability control minimized sway, and it managed emergency maneuvers with confidence.
- Engine and Power: The 2.0L TDI diesel engine (150 hp, 266 lb-ft torque) provides robust pulling power, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic for smooth shifts. It’s ideal for overtaking on motorways and tackling moderate inclines.
- Practicality: With a 690L boot, the Passat offers class-leading cargo space. The variable-height boot floor can be raised flush with the tailgate for easy loading or lowered for extra depth. Rear seats accommodate tall adults comfortably, and the tow bar (optional) integrates seamlessly with a clear-view reversing camera.
- Daily Driving: The Passat shines as a long-distance cruiser, with a quiet cabin, supportive seats, and a refined ride. Its infotainment system includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Fuel economy reaches ~50 mpg solo, dropping to ~35 mpg while towing. A 5-star Euro NCAP rating ensures safety.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~2,200kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£38,000.
- Who It’s For: Families or frequent travelers needing a spacious, reliable tow car for mid-sized caravans.
Why It Wins: The Passat’s blend of stability, cargo space, and comfort makes it a top choice for mid-weight towing.
3. Škoda Kodiaq: Best Overall and Mid-Heavy Towing (1700–1999kg)
Crowned the What Car? Tow Car of the Year 2025, the Škoda Kodiaq is the ultimate all-rounder. This large SUV excels in towing, family practicality, and daily driving, making it a standout in the mid-heavy category. Its diesel 4×4 variant impressed testers with its power and poise.
- Towing Performance: Powered by a 2.0L diesel engine (193 hp, 295 lb-ft torque), the Kodiaq towed heavy caravans effortlessly, hitting 60 mph serenely. It aced the lane-change test at all speeds, with no caravan sway. The 4×4 system ensured traction on wet surfaces and hill starts, while trailer stability control kept everything in check.
- Engine and Power: The diesel engine, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic, delivers muscular torque for overtaking and steep inclines. Though the gearbox can be slightly sluggish, it’s barely noticeable once up to speed.
- Practicality: The Kodiaq seats seven, with a third row suitable for kids or short adult trips. Its 910L boot (third row folded) handles camping gear easily, and the optional tow bar is user-friendly. Features like a 360-degree camera and tow assist make hitching and maneuvering a breeze.
- Daily Driving: A balanced ride combines alert handling with comfort, ideal for long drives. The interior is spacious, with premium materials and a 13-inch touchscreen. Fuel economy is ~40 mpg solo, ~28 mpg towing. It holds a 5-star Euro NCAP rating with advanced safety tech.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~2,400kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£36,000.
- Who It’s For: Families or serious towers needing a versatile, spacious SUV for mid-heavy caravans.
Why It Wins: The Kodiaq’s unmatched stability, power, and family-friendly design make it the best overall tow car.
4. BMW X5: Best for Heavy Towing (2000kg+)
The BMW X5 is a powerhouse for heavy towing, setting the standard for large caravans or trailers. Its blend of speed, stability, and luxury makes it a premium choice for demanding tasks, as proven in the What Car? tests.
- Towing Performance: The X5 posted the fastest 30–60 mph time (under 10 seconds) and shortest stopping distance of any car tested, showcasing its power and control. It remained rock-solid in lane changes and at high speeds, with trailer stability control ensuring no sway. Its 4×4 system handled wet conditions and hills effortlessly.
- Engine and Power: The 3.0L diesel (298 hp, 494 lb-ft torque) or plug-in hybrid (483 hp combined) offers immense pulling power. The 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly, making overtaking and hill climbs seamless.
- Practicality: The 650L boot fits large loads, though it lacks a third row in the hybrid model. The optional tow bar is electrically retractable, and a 360-degree camera simplifies hitching. Towing aids like trailer backup assist enhance maneuverability.
- Daily Driving: The X5’s luxurious cabin features premium leather, a 14.9-inch touchscreen, and a quiet ride. It’s sporty yet comfortable, with ~38 mpg solo (diesel) or ~150 mpg (hybrid, solo). A 5-star Euro NCAP rating includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping tech.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~2,700kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£65,000.
- Who It’s For: Those towing heavy loads who want luxury and performance.
Why It Wins: The X5’s speed, stability, and premium features make it ideal for heavy-duty towing.
5. Škoda Elroq: Best Electric Car for Lightweight Towing (Up to 1200kg)
The Škoda Elroq, a new EV in the lightweight towing category, proves electric cars can handle towing with ease. Its battery weight adds stability, making it a budget-friendly option for small caravans.
- Towing Performance: The Elroq towed a small Swift caravan with superb stability, passing the lane-change test with no fuss. Its heavy 2-ton curb weight kept the trailer in line, and it handled high speeds confidently. Hill starts were smooth, thanks to instant EV torque.
- Engine and Power: The 82kWh battery and single motor (282 hp, 401 lb-ft torque) deliver quick acceleration. The electric powertrain ensures silent, smooth towing, though range drops to ~150 miles when towing (vs. 360 miles solo).
- Practicality: The 470L boot fits moderate luggage, and the optional tow bar is easy to use. A clear reversing camera aids hitching, and the compact size simplifies parking. Charging at 175 kW means quick top-ups on trips.
- Daily Driving: Nimble and comfortable, the Elroq’s modern cabin includes a 13-inch touchscreen and wireless charging. It’s efficient (~4 miles/kWh solo) and affordable, avoiding the UK’s luxury car tax.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~1,200kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£35,000.
- Who It’s For: Eco-conscious towers with lightweight trailers seeking value and tech.
Why It Wins: The Elroq’s stability and affordability make it a game-changer for lightweight EV towing.
6. Kia EV9: Best Electric Car for Heavy Towing (1200kg+)
The Kia EV9 is a beast in the heavy EV towing category, offering power, space, and stability for larger caravans. Its seven-seat design makes it perfect for families who tow.
- Towing Performance: With 378 hp and 516 lb-ft torque, the EV9 aced hill starts and high-speed stability tests. It led the EV class in lane changes, feeling secure at all speeds. The 4×4 system ensured traction in wet conditions, and trailer stability control minimized sway.
- Engine and Power: The 99.8kWh battery powers dual motors for instant torque. Towing range is ~114 miles (vs. 313 miles solo), but 210 kW charging tops up quickly. The 8-speed equivalent power delivery is seamless.
- Practicality: The EV9 seats seven, with a 333L boot (all seats up) or 1,999L (third row folded). The tow bar is optional, and a 360-degree camera simplifies hitching. Multiple USB ports and air vents keep passengers happy.
- Daily Driving: Spacious but large, the EV9’s ride is comfortable, though less agile than a BMW iX. The cabin boasts a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup and premium materials. It’s efficient (~3.8 miles/kWh solo) with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~2,500kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£65,000.
- Who It’s For: Families towing large caravans who want an electric SUV.
Why It Wins: The EV9’s power and family-friendly design make it the top EV for heavy towing.
7. Range Rover Sport: Best Money-No-Object Tow Car
For those with deep pockets, the Range Rover Sport is the ultimate tow car. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain and luxury features redefine towing performance, as proven in the What Car? tests.
- Towing Performance: With 542 hp (petrol-electric hybrid) and 479 lb-ft torque, the P550e model delivers effortless acceleration. It aced high-speed stability and lane-change tests, keeping a 2.8-ton caravan under control. The 4×4 system and advanced tow assist ensured flawless hill starts and maneuvering.
- Engine and Power: The 3.0L petrol engine and electric motor offer a ~70-mile electric range (solo) and smooth 8-speed automatic shifts. Towing range is ~50 miles, but fast charging (50 kW) helps.
- Practicality: The 647L boot handles large loads, and the electrically retractable tow bar is user-friendly. A 360-degree camera and tow assist make hitching and reversing effortless. The luxurious cabin seats five comfortably.
- Daily Driving: The Sport’s plush interior, with premium leather and a 13.1-inch touchscreen, is unmatched. It’s refined yet sporty, with ~100 mpg (solo, hybrid mode). A 5-star Euro NCAP rating includes top-tier safety tech.
- Max Towing Capacity: ~3,000kg (braked trailer).
- Price: Starting at ~£100,000.
- Who It’s For: Luxury seekers towing heavy loads with no budget limits.
Why It Wins: The Range Rover Sport’s power, stability, and opulence make it the ultimate tow car.
Comparison Table: Best Tow Cars 2025
| Car | Max Towing Capacity | Price (Starting) | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Qashqai | 1,800kg | £30,000 | Lightweight towing | Affordable, stable |
| Volkswagen Passat | 2,200kg | £38,000 | Mid-weight towing | Spacious boot |
| Škoda Kodiaq | 2,400kg | £36,000 | Overall best, mid-heavy towing | Family-friendly, versatile |
| BMW X5 | 2,700kg | £65,000 | Heavy towing | Quick, luxurious |
| Škoda Elroq | 1,200kg | £35,000 | Lightweight EV towing | Affordable EV |
| Kia EV9 | 2,500kg | £65,000 | Heavy EV towing | Spacious, powerful |
| Range Rover Sport | 3,000kg | £100,000 | Luxury towing | Unmatched performance |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Tow Car
Selecting the right tow car depends on your trailer, budget, and lifestyle. Here are key factors to consider:
- Towing Capacity: Match your car’s maximum braked trailer weight to your trailer (e.g., 3,500kg for large caravans). Follow the 85% rule for safety: trailer weight should be ≤85% of the car’s curb weight.
- Stability Features: Look for trailer stability control, 4×4 for traction, and towing aids like backup cameras or tow assist.
- Practicality: Ensure enough boot space for luggage and an easy-to-use tow bar. Check tow ball weight limits (e.g., 100–150kg).
- Engine Type: Diesels (e.g., Škoda Kodiaq) offer torque and efficiency for frequent towing. EVs (e.g., Kia EV9) suit shorter trips but have reduced range when towing. Hybrids (e.g., Range Rover Sport) balance power and economy.
- Daily Usability: Choose a car that’s comfortable and practical when not towing, with good fuel economy and tech.
- Budget: Balance upfront cost with running costs (fuel, maintenance, insurance). Consider used models for savings (e.g., a 3-year-old Kia Sorento).
Pro Tip: Test drive with a trailer if possible, and use tools like the What Car? Tow Car Chooser to filter vehicles by trailer weight.
FAQs About Towing Cars in 2025
The Range Rover Sport and BMW X5 excel for heavy caravans (2,700–3,000kg), while the Škoda Kodiaq offers similar capability at a lower price.
Yes, EVs like the Kia EV9 (2,500kg) and Škoda Elroq (1,200kg) offer instant torque and stability, but towing reduces range significantly (e.g., EV9’s ~114 miles).
For safety, especially for beginners, your trailer’s weight should not exceed 85% of the car’s curb weight to ensure stability.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Tow Car Awaits
The What Car? Tow Car Awards 2025 highlight the best vehicles for towing, from the budget-friendly Nissan Qashqai to the luxurious Range Rover Sport. The Škoda Kodiaq stands out as the overall champion, offering unmatched stability, space, and value. Whether you’re towing a lightweight trailer or a heavy caravan, these cars deliver safety, performance, and practicality.
Ready to hit the road? Explore our detailed reviews for more insights or dive into our buying guides for the latest trends. Share your favorite tow car in the comments or join our community on X for updates. Let’s make towing in 2025 safe and fun!
Why Trust MyPitShop.com’s Reviews?
At MyPitShop.com, we’re dedicated to helping you find the best vehicles for your needs. Our reviews are:
- Expert-Driven: Crafted by automotive experts with years of experience testing cars in real-world conditions.
- Unbiased: No sponsored content—just honest evaluations based on rigorous tests like the What Car? Tow Car Awards.
- Trustworthy: We rely on credible sources, including What Car? and the Camping and Caravanning Club, for accurate data.
- Reader-Focused: Designed to answer your questions, solve problems, and guide your buying decisions.
Author Bio: John Smith is an automotive journalist with over a decade of experience reviewing cars, bikes, and tech. He’s driven and tested vehicles across diverse conditions, from city commutes to towing tracks, ensuring practical insights for readers.
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