caravan towing capacity Page 661

Thinking about towing a caravan and wondering what your car can actually manage? Your limit hinges on the vehicle’s braked towing capacity and key masses: ATM, GTM, GVM, GCM.

In Australia, unbraked trailers max out at 750 kg; many family SUVs allow 2,000–2,500 kg braked, while big 4x4 utes/SUVs quote 3,000–3,500 kg.

A sensible rule: keep the van’s loaded ATM to about 85–100% of the vehicle’s rated tow, with tow‑ball mass around 8–12% of the van’s ATM.

Stay under the vehicle’s GCM once you add people, fuel and gear—accessories nibble payload like seagulls on hot chips.

If in doubt, weigh it at a public bridge and save the heroics for the overtaking lane.

Consult official documentation for exact figures.