Anyone used the 1.6TDi for caravan towing, and how did it perform. I have just bought a van, but its a little heavy for the car (88% ratio).

Cheers

Ian

Hi Ian

I have had 3 1.9tdi Octavias 105 bhp but when I was due to change earlier this year and drove the 1.6tdi I decided it wasn't man enough for my caravan, only 1250kgs and so bought the 2.0 140 bhp, it's the low down torque that is missing with the 1.6, put 1200 odd kgs on the back and it's even worse. The 2.0 has behaved impeccably, superb tow car.

Regards

Ian

I agree with Ian Octy, I tow with my Octavia at 88% ratio, it too is the 2 litre diesel and pulls it well. I would try it with your 1.6 tdi. I did read an article in a caravan magazine where they tested a Yeti greenline fitted with the same engine and it seemed to work well with it. If you are finding it not quite man enough and you can stand the cost and insurance then chipping it could be an option.

Ian

Thanks for your replies. I have just bought another van after a year without, Ace Award Dawnstar which is aprox 1102kg MRO so would probably be about 1200kg with bits and pieces in, so I think it will struggle a bit. I was more worried about the weight ratio and if its unstable but we will have to see.

I wont be going anywhere this year just bringing it home tomorrow. It looks like a bigger car next year as I intend to go to France with it and it may be a bit too much for it.

Edited 12 October, 201213 yr by ianbenny

Like you I have a 1.6TDI Elegance, and whilst I love the car I would not want to tow with it. I don't tow any more, but I have in the past with a variety of cars, mostly very suitable but notably one under-powered or under-torqued cars and it's a nightmare. You really don't want to go there!

In another thread I have been singing the praises of the 16TDI engine in an Octy, even when fully laden - but there is a big difference putting a 'van on the back. Not only the weight, but the aero-drag too.

Your decision to go for a bigger car next year is, in my opinion, the right one.

Steve

This site may help you with your calculations ,if you havent all ready found it .

http://www.whattowcar.com/

If you REALLY want to, Shark and Revo are now offering 1.6TDI remaps. Looking at 130-140BHP I believe, and around 185ftlb torque (up from 140) might help a bit.