What car can handle an offroad caravan? Comparison of SUVs, pickups and 4×4s
If you're planning an adventure with an off-road trailer, choosing the right towing vehicle is key. Not every car can handle pulling a caravan in difficult terrain. In this article, we'll advise you on which car is suitable for towing an off-road trailer, what to look out for, and which models are the most popular among caravanners.
🚗 Basic requirements for a car for towing an offroad trailer
4×4 drive (AWD or 4WD): Essential for off-road driving - forest roads, gravel, mud or sand.
Sufficient torque: Ideally above 350 Nm – important when starting off with a loaded trailer.
Homologated towing device: The car must have an approved towing device and the maximum trailer weight stated in the technical certificate.
Braked trailer: Most off-road trailers have their own brakes – the car must be able to tow a braked trailer weighing 1,200–2,000 kg.
Automatic or manual transmission?: An automatic is more comfortable, but you will also appreciate a manual with a reduction gear on difficult terrain.
✅ Recommended vehicle types
Mid-range and high-end SUVs E.g. Toyota Land Cruiser, Volkswagen Touareg, Škoda Kodiaq, Mazda CX-5
Pick-ups: E.g. Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max – ideal for heavy trailers and difficult terrain
Off-road vehicles: e.g. Jeep Wrangler, Mitsubishi Pajero – suitable for expeditions outside civilization
⚖️ How to find out if your car can handle a trailer?
1.: Check the technical certificate - look for the "maximum braked trailer weight"
2.: Compare with the weight of the trailer (e.g. CRAWLER TRC 458 ≈ 1,600 kg)
3.: Consider cargo and crew – the total weight will quickly add up
🧭 Practical examples
Mazda CX-5 – suitable for smaller off-road trailers like the Hunter Nature NTR-2X
Volkswagen Touareg – can handle heavier models like the Camppass CR555
Toyota Hilux – ideal for long expeditions with a fully loaded trailer
📍 Offroad trailer rental Camprent
At Camprent we offer trailers of various sizes and weights. We will be happy to advise you on which model is suitable for your car. We offer:
CRAWLER TRC 458 I. a II.
Hunter Nature NTR-2X a 4X
Decamp X5
Camppass CR555
📞 Ready to go?
👉 Contact us to find out if your car can handle an off-road trailer. Or book a caravan straight away and we will help you with your choice.
🚗 Basic requirements for a car for towing an offroad trailer
4×4 drive (AWD or 4WD): Essential for off-road driving - forest roads, gravel, mud or sand.
Sufficient torque: Ideally above 350 Nm – important when starting off with a loaded trailer.
Homologated towing device: The car must have an approved towing device and the maximum trailer weight stated in the technical certificate.
Braked trailer: Most off-road trailers have their own brakes – the car must be able to tow a braked trailer weighing 1,200–2,000 kg.
Automatic or manual transmission?: An automatic is more comfortable, but you will also appreciate a manual with a reduction gear on difficult terrain.
✅ Recommended vehicle types
Mid-range and high-end SUVs E.g. Toyota Land Cruiser, Volkswagen Touareg, Škoda Kodiaq, Mazda CX-5
Pick-ups: E.g. Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max – ideal for heavy trailers and difficult terrain
Off-road vehicles: e.g. Jeep Wrangler, Mitsubishi Pajero – suitable for expeditions outside civilization
⚖️ How to find out if your car can handle a trailer?
1.: Check the technical certificate - look for the "maximum braked trailer weight"
2.: Compare with the weight of the trailer (e.g. CRAWLER TRC 458 ≈ 1,600 kg)
3.: Consider cargo and crew – the total weight will quickly add up
🧭 Practical examples
Mazda CX-5 – suitable for smaller off-road trailers like the Hunter Nature NTR-2X
Volkswagen Touareg – can handle heavier models like the Camppass CR555
Toyota Hilux – ideal for long expeditions with a fully loaded trailer
📍 Offroad trailer rental Camprent
At Camprent we offer trailers of various sizes and weights. We will be happy to advise you on which model is suitable for your car. We offer:
CRAWLER TRC 458 I. a II.
Hunter Nature NTR-2X a 4X
Decamp X5
Camppass CR555
📞 Ready to go?
👉 Contact us to find out if your car can handle an off-road trailer. Or book a caravan straight away and we will help you with your choice.
