FACTFILE
Engine
2.0-litre horizontally opposed 4-cyl petrol
Max power
175bhp @ 5600rpm
Max torque
181lb ft @ 3200rpm
0-60mph 7.9sec
Top speed 125mph
Official combined economy
28.8mpg solo
Kerbweight 1450kg
Max towing weight 1800kg
Noseweight 75kg
As if to prove that petrol ain’t dead yet, the Subaru Forester came through to convincingly win not just this sector, but the whole competition. It may not have a transfer ’box like some of the competition, but it certainly wasn’t hampered by the fact. Subaru’s 4x4 system was more than game for lifting its laden caravan from a dead start up the 14 percent rise.
Subaru’s faith in four-cylinder horizontally opposed petrol motors has proved fully justified. The addition of the turbo pumps out 45lb ft more torque (181lb ft) than the standard 2.0 unit and brings it lower down the rev range, too, at 3200rpm. The lion’s share of that torque was available even lower than this, making towing effortless much of the time, and acceleration beautifully swift.
The rugged suspension was even more surprising in a category with such heavyweight opposition. The self-levelling rear suspension is strong enough to deal with the effects of any trailer, but it is not so hard that the ride is unforgiving. On the contrary, the ride is excellent, taking bumps in its stride and preventing the trailer from putting too much pressure on the suspension.
Verdict
Subaru’s 4x4 system is more than adequate for all kinds of towing, proving that a transfer box isn’t a must-have. The torquey turbo petrol engine provides loads of shove just when you need it with a trailer, and its excellent suspension and big load bay makes it one of the towing greats.
Buying used
Buying a turbo version new will cost you, but it will hold on to its money well. Running costs are high, too, as fuel economy is low and insurance steep on turbo models.
RUNNERS-UP
2nd Toyota Rav-4 D-4D GX 5dr
Last year’s winner in this category has managed another strong performance.
3rd Nissan X-Trail 2.5 SVE
Nissan has fielded its distinctive and trustworthy soft-roader with a new 2.5-litre petrol engine.
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This year, Practical Caravan were once again invited to bring our caravanning expertise to the judging panel and over the following pages we bring you the Carvan Club's view on what's the best towcar for your cash.