At Get Cash for Cars Sydney, we understand the importance of finding the right vehicle for your needs. When it comes to towing, small cars are often overlooked, but they can be surprisingly capable.
In this post, we’ll explore the best small cars for towing in Australia, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll also cover essential factors to consider and best practices for safe towing with compact vehicles.
Which Small Cars Excel at Towing in Australia?
Mazda CX-3: Compact but Capable
The Mazda CX-3 stands out in the small SUV category. With a braked towing capacity of 1200kg, it punches above its weight. Its fuel efficiency ensures you won’t empty your wallet at the petrol station, even when hauling a load.
Volkswagen Golf: The Versatile Hatchback
The Volkswagen Golf proves that size isn’t everything when it comes to towing. This compact powerhouse can tow up to 2000kg braked, an impressive feat for a small hatchback. Its advanced safety features (including trailer stability control) make it a solid choice for towing novices.
Subaru XV: All-Wheel Drive Advantage
The Subaru XV shines in towing, particularly in challenging conditions. With a braked towing capacity of 1400kg, it handles small trailers or caravans with ease. The XV’s standout feature is its standard all-wheel drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability when towing. The 2.0-litre boxer engine delivers 115kW and 196Nm, striking a good balance between power and efficiency.
Ford Puma: The Surprising Contender
Ford’s compact SUV, the Puma, is making waves in the towing world. It boasts a respectable braked towing capacity of 1100kg for its class. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine might seem small, but it packs a punch with 92kW and 170Nm. The Puma’s light weight and nimble handling make it an excellent choice for those who need occasional towing capabilities without sacrificing everyday drivability.
These small cars prove that you don’t need a large vehicle to tow effectively in Australia. However, towing capacity is just one factor to consider when choosing a vehicle for towing. Let’s explore other important aspects that can influence your decision.
What Matters When Choosing a Small Car for Towing?
Selecting a small car for towing in Australia requires careful consideration of several key factors. These elements can significantly impact your towing experience and safety on the road.
Towing Capacity: The Maximum Load
Towing capacity is the most important factor to consider. This figure (measured in kilograms) indicates the maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow. For small cars, towing capacities can range from 640 kg (unbraked) and 1200 kg (braked) in a compact AWD SUV, to 750 kg (unbraked) and 3500 kg (braked) in many large SUVs. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific model, as towing capacities can vary even within the same car line.
Power and Torque: The Pulling Force
Engine power and torque significantly influence towing performance. While horsepower (measured in kilowatts in Australia) is important, torque is the real hero when it comes to towing. Higher torque, especially at lower RPMs, means better pulling power and less strain on your engine. A low-end torque vehicle will be able to accelerate faster, and can sustain faster speeds at a lower gear.
Fuel Efficiency: Economical Towing
Towing increases fuel consumption, so choosing a fuel-efficient small car becomes even more important. Look for vehicles with good fuel economy ratings, keeping in mind that these figures will increase when towing. The Australian Government’s Green Vehicle Guide provides excellent comparisons of fuel efficiency across different models. Some small diesel engines (like those found in certain Mazda models) can offer a good balance of towing power and fuel efficiency.
Safety Features: Protection on the Road
Safety should never be compromised, especially when towing. Look for small cars equipped with features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Trailer Sway Control, and Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS). These technologies can significantly enhance stability and control while towing. The Volkswagen Golf, for instance, comes with trailer stability control, making it an excellent choice for those new to towing.
The right vehicle choice can make a significant difference in towing experiences. While small cars might not be the first choice for heavy-duty towing, they can be surprisingly capable for many everyday towing tasks. Now, let’s explore some best practices for towing with small cars to ensure a safe and efficient journey.
How to Tow Safely with Small Cars
Master Weight Distribution
Proper weight distribution is essential when towing with a small car. Try to place about 10% of the trailer’s total weight on the tow ball. This balance prevents trailer sway and maintains steering control. Trailers exceeding 750kgs GTM (Gross Trailer Mass) must have brakes. The NRMA reports that incorrect weight distribution is a leading cause of towing accidents in Australia.
Maintain Your Trailer
Regular trailer maintenance is as important as car maintenance. Check tyre pressure, wheel bearings, and lights before each trip. Ensure the trailer brakes (if fitted) work properly. The Australian Automobile Association recommends servicing your trailer annually (or every 10,000km, whichever comes first).
Adapt Your Driving
Towing alters your vehicle’s handling. Increase your following distance and allow extra time for braking. Towing regulations vary by state in Australia. Be aware of crosswinds, especially when passing large vehicles. Practise reversing with your trailer in a safe area before hitting the road.
Comply with Australian Regulations
Each state in Australia has specific towing regulations. In New South Wales, you must not exceed the manufacturer’s specified towing capacity or the maximum towbar capacity. Speed limits for towing vary by state (typically ranging from 80km/h to 100km/h). Always check local regulations before your journey.
Use Proper Equipment
Ensure you use the correct towing equipment for your small car. This includes a properly rated towbar, tow ball, and safety chains. The towbar should match your vehicle’s towing capacity and the trailer’s weight. Safety chains must be crossed under the drawbar to create a cradle if the coupling fails. Double-check all connections before each trip to ensure a safe towing experience.
Final Thoughts
The best small car for towing in Australia balances capacity, power, efficiency, and safety features. We explored top contenders like the Mazda CX-3, Volkswagen Golf, Subaru XV, and Ford Puma, each offering unique advantages for towing tasks. These vehicles prove that compact cars can handle towing duties when selected wisely.
Towing safely requires proper weight distribution, regular trailer maintenance, and adapted driving techniques. Compliance with Australian regulations (which vary by state) is essential for a safe towing experience. Always check local rules before your journey and ensure you use the correct towing equipment for your small car.
At Get Cash for Cars Sydney, we understand the importance of finding the right vehicle for your needs. We specialise in vehicle removal and purchasing, but we also recognise that sometimes, the best solution is finding the perfect car for your towing requirements. Our team is here to help you make an informed decision about your vehicle choices.
