Hi Martin. We tow with a 180BHP Kuga Titanium Powershift and love it. It manages the caravan really well, and no issues with the auto box. Would recommend to anyone looking for a tow car that is not silly money in the second hand market. Look forward to your vlogs,

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi,Thanks for the info. Good to hear some positive feedback on the auto Kuga. I will more than likely change to that one eventually but it’s great to get as much information about it as you can. Thanks again, Martin 🙂

We have the kuga titanium x sport 180 break awd and it tows our twin axle Bailey Pegasus 624 with a mtplm of 1661 kg a treat.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Adam, we are really happy with the Kuga just need to check this auto box out before we eventually change! Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 😊

Hi Martin, I went from a 54 plate Jeep Grand Cherokee (2.7td Auto) to a 65 plate Titanium Sport 180bhp auto. Not one regret, superb tow car, easy 32mpg on a run and goes like stink without the van on the back. If I'm towing round town I use the sport mode on the autobox, but out on the A roads normal drive mode plus cruise control. Brilliant, don't be put off by the scare mongers. All the best Black Country Dave

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, that’s reassuring to hear. Like I said in the vid, every tow car will get a slating off someone. I guess using sport mode around town when towing will stop it changing up and down too early? I do want to stay with a Kuga, I’m feeling more positive about the auto now 👍 Thanks for the info and watching, Martin 🙂

@davereynolds3682

5 жыл бұрын

Yes, you are correct about the sport mode, the gearbox doesn't "hunt' and it's easier pulling away in traffic, honestly, I think the only thing that could better the Kuga for the average Joe, is if it did 40mpg whilst towing, but what tow car does?? Mega buck motors still struggle to hit 35mpg. I'm going for the ST model next. Also, I will add that the Sat nav is brilliant, and the reversing camera is unbelievable, you can zoom in on the towball as you approach the hitch.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

My dad has just bought a 2015 Kuga Titanium, the reversing camera is great.

We have the Kuga 2.0 Ecoboost and it goes like the clappers. We had the Ford Territory 4.0 and that was an awesome SUV. We changed down to save on gas.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

The Ecoboost has had some good reviews and seems a great car. Not sure I’d want a 4ltr! Thanks for watching 😊

Hi Martin, A freind tows with a Kuga manual and he highly rates the car. My first year of driving was a manual then tried an auto and never looked back. I have been driving automatics nearly 32 years. When we bought our caravan in Feb 13, our first and, still going good today, I had an excuse to buy the car I was wanting for a while. It's auto of course and been towing regular for six & half years with no problems at all. It has high engine torque output, ideal for towing and I also enjoy driving during everyday use - no gears to change. Remember, hybrids and electric are coming and they are all auto so people will have to convert eventually. Best regards Rob

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Rob, I’ve had autos in the past and loved them. So easy to drive and takes some of the hassle of driving away. Don’t know why I haven’t had another, but my next change will definitely be back to auto. I just need to do lots of research to make sure I get the correct one for us. Thanks for comments and watching. Martin 😊

We have an automatic 67 plate AWD Kuga ST Line 180bhp and it tows our 2018 Bailey Unicorn Valencia with ease. We have surprisingly very little road noise and have Continental tyres.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the info, I’m getting more and more comments about the Kuga auto which are positive. This will help me when we eventually change the car. I think automatics take away some of the stresses of driving these days. I have heard that changing the tyres can help with road noise, however it’s expensive to do that to get rid of a bit of noise when I can just turn the radio up to drown it out 😂 Thanks for your comments and watching, Martin 🙂

Having previously had a 2005 freelander with a kerbweight of 1650kg approx pulling a Elddis Aurora MTPLM of 1565kg we did enjoy the journey with not to bad a fuel consumption. The reason I write a comment is that you were saying about your consumption when towing which of course will be increased by 10-15% , we bought a plug in power box which connect very simply to the spark/glow plugs and found it amazing the increase in fuel consumption and not only that at roundabouts where before we had to have a huge gap before pulling out that was removed once this powerbox was installed. Just a suggestion as you clearly like the Kuga and who are anyone else to tell you any different. Happy towing

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Graham, this powerbox thing sounds interesting. Will be looking that up, increasing MPG would be great. Thanks for the info and watching, Martin 😊

You beat me to it... I have been asked to vlog our Landie Freelander 2. We get about 25 - 28 towing. Interesting vlog as always Martin. Thanks for sharing. Ian....

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ian, will look forward to that one as it may be a possible when we eventually change car. Thanks for the support, Martin 😊

@ForTheLoveOfCaravans

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut no probs... Ian..

Hi Martin. We had a Kuga for towing about 8 yrs ago and was good. Were using the Kodiaq now and it's really good in all areas, you can see review and pics on our channel its well worth considering. Thanks for sharing 👍cheers Rob 😁

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Rob, Will have a look at that one. Our first choice would have been a Kuga but I’m always looking at other options. We are not changing for a while so have plenty of time to look 🙂 Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 🙂

Hi Martin, so glad you said the Kuga is a good tow car as we have one on order. We will be towing our Elddis 576, so not as heavy as yours (1496 MTPLM). Can't wait for delivery. Great vlog, thanks for sharing. Mark

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, I noticed on twitter that you had ordered one. We love ours and will more than likely have another....but auto! Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 🙂

Hi Martin thanks for the video we went through the same thing to change the tow car we had a 2011 Landrover freelander 2 2.2 Litre Automatic it was a great car and good for towing we kept it for two years it had a very low mileage but its age and strange noises at times so i researched for another replacement we purchased a 2018 plate Nissan Xtrail 2.0 litre Auto has a max towing of 1650 kg and towball 100kg we have a Lunar quasar its 1350 kg it tows great and it good on the fuel etc have some minor issue with the choice of car but nothing is perfect best wishes when you go for a change Dave

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, I think no matter what car you get there will always be some issues and people telling you they are no good! You have just reminded me I looked at a Xtrail a few years ago and it looked very nice. Another manufacturer to consider when we eventually change. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 🙂

People I know tow with the new shape Kuga and say it’s great, the best tow car they’ve ever had, with auto box and manual no problem. I tow with a 2015 Mondeo Titanium X Estate 180bhp diesel that also excellent.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Gary, The new shape Kuga looks great. Fords make great tow cars and seem to be reliable. Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

Hi Martin, we have a 2016 Titanium Auto 180 AWD. No issues pulling and after 4 trips away we are getting roughly the same MPG as you quote in your video. Our caravan as an MTPLM of 1526kg.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ian, Thanks for the info, I’ve had a few comments from people who have the Kuga auto and they have been positive. Want to make sure that when we eventually change the car we have as much feedback as we can to help us make the right decision. Thanks again, Martin 😊

@ianf6512

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut No problem. I watched your video first before I brought mine, so it works both ways.

when the 4 wheel drive engages, you will see a icon light up on the instrument display, looks like a slippery road ahead sign

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Oh cheers for that, I looked in the manual but there didn’t seem to be anything in there! Thanks for watching 😊

We bought the mondeo titanium x on a 12 plate, the automatic powershift version, sold it the first time I towed with it 2 months after purchasing as the auto box was shocking! Vibrations, hesitations, didn't want to risk it on Scottish hills this summer so got a Pathfinder instead.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

I’ve heard the same reports about the auto box. More research needed! Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

Thanks Martin great vlog. I actual tow with an Antara and I thought my 27mpg was down to the vehicle. It’s reassuring to know there are other vehicles out there with a similar fuel consumption.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

I thought the MPG was pretty standard then you read people getting 35-40MPG, but it is was it is, not going to stop a holiday! Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 🙂

I tow with a vw tiguan 140 bhp and only get 28/29 mpg. On a motorway about 33 mpg. Definitely reccomend the car for towing its a 2010 sport 4wd.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

When we bought the Kuga we also looked at Tiguan, the Kuga had less mileage on it so we got that. It is another option to look at when we change, will see what’s available at the time. Thanks for watching 🙂

Agreed with your last commenter and yourself most of the vehicles tested seam to fall into said bracket , we are at the same point as yourself , found your review and update of the kuga great information surprised at your comment about the boot space against my yeti it’s generous which is the only downside of the yeti space ! DSG box is great for towing , at present no intention of swapping Think there could be a gap in the reviewing for tow cars less than £15000? Nice one Gav

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Gavin, yes there should be more towing reviews for affordable cars. The tow car of the year award makes me laugh, yes we know the Discovery is a great tow car but we also know it’s about 40 - 50k....I’ll have 2! Thanks for comments and support, Martin 🙂

Hi Mark. I've bought the new 2021 kuga, it's the 2 ltr mild highbrid ST line X and tow's our Bailey Pegasus Verona 2011. I manage to get up to 54 MPG on a run and with the van on the back I get 35 MPG. It's very steady on the road and I love it. All the very best, Malc

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Not looked at the mild highbrid Kuga’s, will have a look though. We will be staying with the current one for a few years yet! Thanks for the info, cheers 🙂

Hi Martin good honest review. You say next car you would like a automatic. I bought a car with auto gear box very very good for towing don’t think I would go back to a manual car now. Thanks for the information on the draught stopper works really we’ll Thanks

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Paul, I think the auto would make towing journeys easier. I still enjoy driving but with the traffic these days it will be less effort. Glad you like the Draught stoppa. Thanks for watching Martin 😊

Thanks for the review. I watched it before buying a 2013 titanium back in Sept and I've just watched it again to see if it rings true. It does. We went to the Lakes back in October where they had 1ft of rain in two days. Most roads were flooded and whether we were towing or not, made no difference to the Kuga. I actually look forward to towing with this car because it's very easy and relaxed. We're now looking to replace our Swift Fairway with a heavier van as my son has outgrown the bunk. Your video and the comments have given the confidence and knowledge to tow a larger van.

@TheCaravanNut

2 жыл бұрын

Glad the vlog help with your decision. The Kuga is a great tow car, we see lots of them on sites which must say something. Our van has a MTPLM of 1565kg and the car copes well with that. Hope you manage to find a new van, cheers

I towed with a 65 plate 2.0 diesel Kuga. It was a titanium model also with 150hp. Towed really well I though. Plenty of power for towing our 1300kg caravan. Now we have a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Max towing weight is only 1500kg but still averages 30mpg. Our Kuga was around the same mpg wise. The reason we bought the Outlander was because it does my daily commute on all electric power and saves me around £60 per month in fuel costs. Plus there’s no road tax 😁👍

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, it will be interesting to see what hybrid/electric cars become available for towing market. I know a few who have the same car as you and rave about it. Maybe one for the future change. Thanks for comments, Martin 😊

Hi Martin, I have seen reviews of second hand cars or lower priced new ones in caravan magazines, other options are to visit their website online where there are reviews of pretty much all tow cars. I currently have a BMW X 3 which tows my coachman very well, it is a 3 litre so a little thirsty when towing but very good when not towing. I bought it second hand so not terribly expensive. However plenty of choice out there when it comes to picking your next car.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi David, yes lots of vehicles to consider and lots to think about when we eventually change. Thanks for comments and watching 😊

Thank you, we will let you know about Automatic transmission as we have just bought a ford kuga automatic to tow a caravan - first timers we are, and we have gone for a 2 birth, which we only purchased yesterday and not picking up till October so excited

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

I will be interested on how you get on with the auto. I have since spoken to a few people who tow with a Kuga auto and they said it was great. Should be no problem with your 2 berth caravan. Welcome to caravanning and enjoy, cheers, Martin

Great video Martin. I tow with a Vauxhall Zafira 2ltr cdti and a Vauxhall Insignia 2ltr cdti. Yes we are lucky to have 2 cars capable of towing our Bailey Pageant Bretagne. I do prefer to have the better view in the Zafira. Always liked the look of the Kuga but never really had much luck with Fords in the past. Each to their own I suppose. We are a family of 5 so we have a lot of stuff!!! We do like our Vauxhall’s though. And yes looking back I think I’d prefer an automatic version. The old left leg can start aching with all the gear changes!!! Ps love the outtake!!! All the best. Dave

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, Yes definitely an auto next time. Driving these days is not as much fun as it used to be. There are good points to every car, everyone has their own needs. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 😊

Hi Martin, great review of the “older” Kuga. I bought a 2013 titanium 2WD a month ago, swapped from a Honda CRV. I have found the Kuga to be much better when towing my Ace Award Morningstar (1577 MTLMP) and get far better MPG from it. I watched your first review before I bought the Kuga.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Graham, yes the Kuga is great. It copes well with the heavier van. Think we will stay with Kuga when we eventually change. Thanks for comments & watching, Martin 😊

Random, this came on is an automatic next vid having watched a Skoda Yeti vid. BTW the AWD there isn’t anything to say the rear wheels are in use, it just happens. The Haldex system can sense any slip from front wheels and sends power to the rear wheels, but there’s nothing to tell you that’s going on.

@TheCaravanNut

2 жыл бұрын

Yes I’ve researched the AWD now and know how it works. I’ve also had the Haldex serviced which is quite important. All running great! Cheers

😂🤣 effortlessly. Hi Martin we have a Ford Kuga and Swift Challenger caravan the same weight as your unicorn and we have had no problems over the last 4 years, tows no problem 🚙🚌

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Liz, It’s a great tow car and tows effortlessly 😂 it’s s at the top of our list when we eventually change. I’ve got plenty of time for more research on the auto gear box. The ST line looks good. Thanks for the support Martin 🙂

The Kuga is a great towcar I’ve just changed mine to another Kuga after 3 years of towing all over the UK from the Isles of Scotland to The Cotswolds and various places in between lol I had the 2.0 auto (180bhp) AWD Diesel but have now changed to Petrol 1.5 Ecoboost AWD which still gives 180 bhp

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Bob, how did you find the Kuga auto? That 1.5 have more power than I thought. Thanks for the support, Martin 😊

@bobmckayfreedom

5 жыл бұрын

The Caravan Nut auto is brill ... mind you I’ve been auto for years ... not towed with new one still to get bar fitted but it feels the same as old

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for that Bob, had some bad reports on the auto box but need to see for myself. 😊

@bobmckayfreedom

5 жыл бұрын

The Caravan Nut I’ve just done 57000 not a prob

I've had 2 kuga A lunar clubman 2002 1150kg And now A Valencia 2016 1495kg Both kugas have pulled both caravans A 2015 titanium 150 bhp fwd And now an ST line X 4x4 180 bhp AWD Yes the second Kuga is more stable.. Wider tyres Stiffer suspension More powerful engine Constant 4x4 I keep most of my weight in the boot. Second Kuga 88 % of MTPTLM Both cars were better than my previous vehicles My X type 2.2 Jag was great from the lights but drifted around corners.. I believe the bigger and more powerful the tow car, the faster the owner tends to drive which defeats the object. As the van has no idea what's towing it until it's probably to late.. I'm looking ahead to the new Kugas the hybrid ones..more powerful bigger but may be too light. Yes I love the Kuga good vision. I tell you what I have done martin. I made a template and then had a nice piece of carpet edge bound and cut to fit from the back to the front behind the driver's seat an L shape as I keep one back seat up..the carpet fits through to the rear boot lid. . Makes a lovely soft flat loading bay..very neat and tidy.. Finally the ATC came on the other day going round a corner down in to a sharp dip..Could feel the left caravan brake come on for about 2 seconds as I was turning left.. absolutely brilliant felt the unit slow down and pull straight.. Plus the Valencia has suspension and that makes for a smoother ride. There's a lot to consider isn't there..

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

That Kuga ST line looks a beast. I do like the new front end, it reminds me of the transit! Is yours auto? We tow at 95% and it feels great, very stable. Not sure about the hybrid ones but it will have to be done one day. Will that be the end of caravanning? Liking the boot carpet idea, I have the moulded plastic tray in the boot which I bought off Amazon, great for keeping the carpet clean. I also bought a rubber bumper protector for the bottom tailgate edge. ATC is a great feature, thankfully it’s never kicked in for us when towing but glad it’s there. Thanks for comments and continued support, Martin 🙂

@muddymarvellous

5 жыл бұрын

No Martin it's manual. Your probably aware automatics tend to have a much lighter towing capability..I've driven a Kuga Auto for a weekend on loan, the 150bhp fwd.. .I didn't like it, the garage said I wouldn't like it, they were right too..It was notchy you could feel the gear changing and the engine was racing between the gears..not nice..I think Auto's are better on the more top of the range vehicles like Jag. landrover and Audi etc where autos are more the norm. I like my Kuga I actually like the shape of yours more sporty, the new Kuga comes out next year my son in law works for ford ...he advices it's much to early to buy into electric for at least 5 years..The new technology, battery capability, high depreciation, and high cost are prohibitive.. So my little Kuga is a keeper...

Thanks Martin for the vlog The lack of a proper auto excludes fords for me that powershit is terrible at slow manuvers and is fragile

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Greg, yes I’ve heard the power shift isn’t great. Will have to do more research. Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

I mate i have a kia 2lt sportage 15 reg and it pulls my swit carvan with f/bed like a dream my van is 25ft and the sportage is automatic i would not swap it for anything apart from a brand new one and i have still got 4 years warranty still on the kia because its got 7 years from new so just take a look at them so time all the best dave

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, The Kia is another one on the list to look at when we eventually change. There is so many on the market and lots to consider. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 😊

Personally think all the caravan mags miss a big trick in not reviewing the older car. My old supervisor had a kuga automatic and said the box isn't that great. The boot is brill. Personally have a skoda octavia 2litre tdi automatic 2005. Fantastic car and get 35 to 40mpg when towing. Last year from chesterfield to Newquay I did 42mpg. Admittingly dropping to nutural going down hill. Look forward to the next one. 👍

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Jon, I can’t understand why they don’t cover used tow cars, caravanning used to be affordable! You’re getting good MPG out of your car, will have to see what’s around when we eventually change. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 😊

Got nissan xtrail 1.6 dci 2015 model. with two tonne tow limit.. its got 4wd function but mainly keep it in 2wd, towing our sterling eccles sport 584 i get over 30mpg and normal driving can easliy get 55+ extra urban * not towing* all i will say is use decent diesel not supermarket stuff... does make a difference.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

The Xtrail is a great car, from what i’ve seen it will run forever! Not bad MPG there 👍 Thanks for watching, Martin

hi martin as i,ve said before we have the same caravan as you and the same car a ford kuga its our second kuga the first being a 2009 manual titinium that towed our bailey unicorn valencia 2013 with ease ,just recently we changed the kuga to a newer model a 2013 auto titanium ,now on sunday we plan to go down to the west country and on to the new forest having a week in the west country and a week in the new forest so i can let you know how the car performs it being automatic it will be roughly 600 mile round trip all the best colin

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Colin, they are a great tow car and so far it’s at the top of our list when we eventually change. Let me know what you want think of the auto, I think it will be fine but the more info I can get the better. Thanks for watching and enjoy your break, Martin 🙂

Great video. We have a 2010 Titanium AWD 163bhp tdci. Lovely and stable towing our 1450 mtplm Lunar Cosmos. The only problem we now find, like you said is the boot is so small. We used to put awning and most stuff in the boot but since our dog is now the size of a horse...lol he takes all the boot space. Have 2 kids also so looking at new shape Smax Titanium next with the 150bhp diesel engine. Just hope it will tow as good as the Kuga

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, the Smax should tow fine. It might feel a little strange at first as I think it’s lower down than the Kuga. Performance wise it should be the same, nice car though. Thanks for watching, Martin

Great car

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, tows really well 😊

Good review Martin and I can recommend an automatic. Although I have a Range Rover (2005 L322) which I need to tow our Buccaneer, I've had euro's before when towing. It makes it so much easier especially when queing. Anyway, I enjoyed your review and interestingly, I was given a Kuga to use when someone hit my RR. Enjoyed it.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi John, yes you have a lovely Range Rover! That would be perfect, however the price isn’t! I will have to do some more research for when we eventually change. Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

You’ve never had the AWD on? Ever noticed that you’ve never spun the front wheels when pulling away? Ever noticed that you have never suffered torque steer, no matter how hard you drive? It’s intelligent - it’s there when you need it, no fuss! I have a 2011 Titanium AWD and It’s been pretty trouble free. My problem will be what do I eventually replace it with? The new Kuga does not have a split tailgate, which won’t suit the dog, and there is nothing out there I like better, which is why I still have it 8yrs later... Nice vid, thanks.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Lee, No AWD never kicked in! Never had the front wheels spinning. Great car though. Thanks for comments and watching 🙂

Thanks Martin. We may change our car next year and the Kuga is one I’m considering as the don’t make the Skoda Yeti anymore. ☹️☹️☹️.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ian, so far it’s been great, just need to do my research on the auto gear box before we eventually change it. Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

@stephgawronska2441

3 жыл бұрын

They do do the skoda yetti even now in 2021

We have a 2017 St line awd 180,cracking thing, pulls like a train and mpg isn't unreasonable compared to the performance.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

The ST line looks great so on the list of possibles when we eventually change. Thanks for watching, Martin 🙂

Hi Martin “it tows very well” 😂🤣

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

It’s almost effortlessly Colin! 😂😂 Thanks for your support, Martin 🙂

Hi Martin, you are not going to believe this mate, but 2 weeks ago I bought a 2012 Kuga titanium automatic with 60,000miles on the clock, here in Perth, Australia. I googled Kuga towing ability it came up 1500kg & 2100kg, I rang 2 different ford dealers here 1 in Bunbury where the car was purchased the other in Perth who told me 1500kg, I asked the dealer (Nuford) if they could fit a genuine ford tow ball plus the cost, he came back to me saying ford did not manufacture a tow bar for the Kuga I asked him why, and he had no answer, I then rang a local tow bar company who said yes it would cost $710 OZ, but the Kuga in Australia is only permitted to tow a maximum weight of 750KGS !!!! bloody crazy eh ? so the Kuga has to go and it's back to towing the van (1050kgs) with our 2007 Nissan X Trail.

@TheCaravanNut

2 жыл бұрын

That doesn’t sound right! Is it something to do with Aus legislation? If the manufacturer says 2100kg how can it be different. The Xtrail should do the job! Cheers 🙂

Have you tried Volvo I have had 10 over the years towing caravans and no trouble.My current car is a Volvo V60 D4 it has zero road tax fuel on average 40 to 50 mpg.I use it for my job as a car valeter and mobile disco.My last service cost £300 including MOT 2 tyres

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Mike, I know Volvo’s make great tow cars, another one to look at but when I’ve looked in the past they were over my price range. Don’t want one too old or with high mileage. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 🙂

Nice video Martin. I have a kia sorento 2.5 xs auto diesel. Wouldn't change it ;))

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Stew, I’d forgot about the Sorento! Another to add to the list to look at. We’re not changing for a while but I like to do all my research then I get the right one for us. Thanks for reminding me of that one, cheers Martin 🙂

Great review mate, the Kuga seems like a great all round tow car if you ask me. Nice looking too..........the car that is 🤣👍🏻

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Aaron, think we will stick with the Kuga when we eventually change, auto of course. Yes I am good looking! 😂 Thanks for continued support 😊

hi martin as promised hear is my opinion of our new to us 2013 ford kuga titainium automatic as i said before this is our second kuga our last one being a 2009 manual which towed great , now we have just come back of holliday to brixham in devon and burley in the new forest and the car performed great we covered about 320 mile of towing and using the cruise control wear possable set at 57 mph the car returned 32 mpg on average , the gearbox is a six speed which coped well, on the odd occasion i had to use sport mode to hold onto a gear longer but this was not an issue in my opinion the auto box done the job well and would definitely get another ,hope this helps martin all the best colin

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Colin, thanks for getting back to me. The MPG sounds reasonable and using sport mode will stop it hunting through the gears. I bet it was far better with an auto, less stress when driving. Hope you enjoyed Brixham, we went there last year and really enjoyed exploring the area. Thanks again for the info, really appreciated, cheers Martin 🙂

hi martin sorry my mistake our caravan is 2012 and not 2013 all the best colin

Just bought my 1st caravan. Just found your channel. Similar to your tow car video, I have Citroën c4 grand Picasso. Kerb weight and tow limit similar to the Renault Scenic you had. So I find myself probably needing another tow car. Thanks for these very informative videos. May now add Kuga to my list. Really just looking for something similar value to mine.

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Welcome to caravanning. The Scenic was a great car but not good for towing! The low 75kg tow ball limit along with the low towing capacity made for a very uncomfortable tow. The Kuga has been a great tow car and would definitely have another. Having to right combination makes for a more relaxing journey. Thanks for watching and support 🙂

@fat-shotgolf2937

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut thanks. Its a minefield trying to understand tbh. The MRO on my van is 1350kg. Max car weight is 2250kg & max train weight of the car is 3130kg. And the kerb weight is 1505kg. I think with just the caravan empty total train weight is 2855kg and its around 89% Does this make sense? Am I missing something? Hope you can enlighten me 😷

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Yes all makes sense but need more details, what caravan have you got? Year/make need MTPLM and what size engine is the car + year of car. With the correct details should be able to give you more info. cheers.

@fat-shotgolf2937

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut hi thanks car- 2013 Citroën c4 grand Picasso 1.6hdi. Caravan - Swift Challenger 490 (2007). MTPLM 1565kg. Maximum towing weight for the car appears to be 1500kg

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Just looked at all the info and from what I can see it’s not legal. It lists the cars max towing in the handbook at 1450kg with a maximum nose weight of 70kg. If the van is at MTPLM of 1565kg the recommended nose weight should be between 5 & 7% of van MTPLM, 5% which is the minimum is 78kg and that’s 8kg over your 70kg max. The car and caravan together is 680kg over max train weight. If you have bought your caravan from a dealer they should have checked the weights for you. Hope that helps but probably not the answer you wanted! cheers, Martin

Unless there are differences in the automatic box for the UK it is strange that reports of problems exist as almost every Ford in the USA including the Escape is automatic and when I lived there I heard of no major issues with them.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

That’s reassuring to know as I do like the Kuga and would like to get another....but auto of course! Thanks for comments and watching 🙂

Good review Martin, doing a little home work on Tow cars, were seriously thinking of moving from MH to caravan, last couple of trips out we have felt restricted where we can go (may just be the circumstances were in at the moment ) we were thinking of tow car but that's more expense with 3 vehicle running costs, we need the bigger car for running round with Grankids (once things get back to some kind of normality) so changing to a caravan with one vehicle would save us money, we always stop on sites so to me this is the best option, who knows what 2121 will bring

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Andrew & Karen, it’s a big decision and needs a lot of thought. I had many conversations with Aaron (caravan chit chat) about changing back to a caravan. I see the benefits of a caravan, it’s much more comfortable. The Kuga is a great tow car and we would definitely have another. It’s not good for short journeys and needs a good run regularly. There are lots of different specs out there, we have the Titanium which has a bit of kit. It would be cheaper than buying another small car to tow around with the Moho. Good luck with the decision making, I’m sure you will do what’s best for you. Cheers, Martin

@andrew-karens-adventures

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut Yes it's a big decision, Once we get out of this lockdown we will be checking out caravans, we have done a list of what's good and bad for caravan & motorhome, looks like were on the side of caravan at moment

If it’s anything like the MK 2 Kuga, the 4 wheel drive is always cutting in and out, when you pull off from a stand, when you accelerate etc, the more 2 has a display you can show on the little screen by the Speedo, if you don’t have that screen on you are completely unaware which wheels are being powered, it’s not very interesting although the four wheel drive kicks in more than you imagine. Ended up getting rid of my Kuga though as the power shift seemed to be developing a problem changing between 2nd and 3rd

@TheCaravanNut

4 жыл бұрын

Ours is the Mk1, not experienced any of those issues, I’ve heard about problems with the powershift. Thanks for watching 😊

A very helpful review thanks.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

You’re welcome, thanks for the feedback and watching 🙂

I have a automatic kurgan don’t pull a caravan but think it would pull fine.great in traffic jams I wouldn’t go back to manual.

@TheCaravanNut

4 жыл бұрын

thanks for the info, I have since spoken to a few people who have Kuga Auto's and tow a caravan with no issues or problems.

The biggest downside of the kuga aside from those auto gearboxes is it's very low kerb weight. From memory I think they're around 1700kgs which is low for a big car. If you were to follow the 85% rule (which I don't) it wouldnt be a big van you would be towing at all.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

I’ve not heard great stuff about the auto. This is the heaviest van we have had and it’s fine, but like you said I wouldn’t go any heavier. Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

Sorry Martin, forgot to mention it's a 2012 Titanium 2.5 litre, 5 cylinder, automatic petrol

I have auto in our 2016 Ford cmax pretty much similar car auto is ok but it does keep going from 6th to 5th a lot mpg fully laden pretty much similar to yours but my caravan is 1759 total weight twin axle baily Carolina series 6 6 berth the car is a 2 litre 140 hp diesal power shift titanium nav model we trading in ours we just ordered a brand new vw tiguan all space 4 motion 2 litre tdi dsg auto wont be here till november so wont no what it is like till then

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi, I’ve heard that the auto box struggles to make its mind up. The Tiguan is another car on my list for when we eventually change. This will be a long drawn out decision when we eventually change the car. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin😊

You wouldn't know that the AWD system is operating as it's fully automatic. As it's got a Haldex system, make sure this has been serviced properly because many are not and they are very expensive to fix.

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Yes I am aware of that now, it has been serviced since. Thanks for the info.

Swapped mine for a BMW520d touring. 181bhp, 1750kg kerb wt. 30 - 35mpg towing a Unicorn Cadiz. I wouldn't go back to a Kuga now.

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Nice looking car, not looked at BMW. Might be out of my price tag 🤔 Thanks for watching, Martin 😊

Have heard of lots of alternators needing to be replaced after they have been connected to a caravan battery.

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

We had a new alternator a couple of years ago, will keep an eye on that. Cheers

Brilliant video and very helpful

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching

Ive just brought my first caravan a swift challenge 500, haven’t got a clue what I’m doing lol, have you got a video on how to turn the water heater on , and the fridge? Cheers

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Neil, Sorry haven’t got a vid on the heating as it’s different to ours. You should be able to find a vid on it on YT, just search the make and model. As for the fridge, there will be 3 settings - Battery/gas/mains. Battery is for when you are towing to keep the fridge cool, it only maintains temperature on this setting. Gas, fridge should have ignition switch, usually turn to ignite and press a button. Mains - for when on electric hook up. Hope that helps, there is a great caravanning community on twitter and if you ask any questions on there someone will have the answer. Thanks for comments and watching, Martin 🙂

Hi Martin. Like the Kuga a lot but the Mpg is a little low. Is the new version any better. My old man has has had several and has just changed from the Edge back to the Kuga. Thanks Phil 👍

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Phil, more research needed before we eventually change. Will see what’s on the market when we eventually change. Thanks for the support, Martin 😊

Would a 2 ltr kuga be any good for towing 1 1/2 ton in and out fields I have been using a mondeo but to low to ground not good when wet but really good on road. All cars on KZread tow caravans which are quite lightweight. Cheers

@TheCaravanNut

Жыл бұрын

I would get an all wheel drive version, should be ok but it’s not really an off road vehicle. Thanks

I love my kuga ....however I dont like the new 2020 model kuga as it looks more like a car and they have lowered it !!

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

I’ve not noticed the lower ride height, great cars though, Thanks for watching 😊

@scotcamvideos3068

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut here is a comparison with the current model...uk.motor1.com/news/316603/2020-ford-kuga-side-by-side/

@scotcamvideos3068

5 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut www.whatcar.com/news/2020-ford-kuga-suv-price-specs-and-release-date/n19158

You did that ethesfortlee 😂 It’s a Ford. Everyone loves a Ford. Everyone’s had a Ford. You can’t go wrong with a Ford. Are you there yet ? 😂 Trev

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Trev, my first car was a Ford, loved it. Had a few since and love the Kuga. Tows effortlessly!! Just got here now 😂 Cheers Martin 😊

@PoshcatsCamping

5 жыл бұрын

We had several Fords. Ka, Fiesta, Escort, Focus and our towcar was a Mondeo 😄

@TheCaravanNut

5 жыл бұрын

Can’t go wrong with a Ford 😊

Hello Martin great review we are getting a 2012 kuga titanium with a view to towing our first van. I noticed ours is the 140 bhp diesel version would this still be okay to tow

@TheCaravanNut

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Wayne, as long as you are towing within the legal limits is should be fine. The mpg when towing won't be great and it may be working hard up hills, at 85% towing it can tow 1346kg. What are you towing? cheers Martin

@jackjack3902

4 жыл бұрын

yes

Hi Martin, hope you’re well. I’m currently looking for a tow car 3k or under any suggestions. Newish to towing only 2 years experience and have the same caravan as yourselves. Looking at the sorento but I’m struggling to find a good example at the moment

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Ben, A Sorento will do the job well, should have a 2000kg towing capacity and 100kg nose weight. You might get a Kuga for that money but look at minimum 163bhp. You could also pick up a Discovery or similar 4x4. Main thing you need with that van is a car with minimum of 1800kg towing capacity and nose weight of 100kg. We tow with nose weight at 95kg, which always seems stable. Auto trader is a good place to look. Happy searching, Martin

@bencluroe4183

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheCaravanNut thanks Martin appreciate the advice I’ll keep my eye out for a sorento, they all seem to be corroded to high heaven. Hopefully we can all get back in the vans this year 🤞🏼

@TheCaravanNut

3 жыл бұрын

Let me know how you get on 👍

Do not buy the Kuga with auto box, they are rubbish!!!!. You have been warned.....

@TheCaravanNut

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks