alhambra/sharran/galaxy

[peter_374564710]

Hi just wondering if anyone tows with 1 of the above cars I'm thinking of getting a 1.9 tdi 130bhp version just wondered if they were any good at towing and what the max noseweight for it is I have read 3 different figures 50kg 85kg and 100kg.

thanks in advance

Pete

 

[Martin24]

not much help on the question but my Uncle has a Sharron as a spare run around, 1.9 done 167,000 miles and just sailed through yet another MOT with hardly an emmissions reading in sight

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Peter,

I run a Renault Grande Espace MPV, which I find to be a super tow vehicle, and may of the reasons why I like it will apply equally to the Alhambra/Galaxy/Sharan vehicles. The VW engine they use is well proven.

Load capacity, they will all swallow large volumes of people and luggage.

Flexible seating arrangements to suit many situations

Individually adjustable seats even for rear passengers

Raised seating which affords good views especially for passengers.

Generally heavier bodies that also moves towing ratios in a good direction.

Relatively short rear overhang, improves the vehicles control of the trailer.

Generally better fuel economy compared to 4x4s you might consider, along with better road manners and road tax.

I am generally happy with my Espace, but it has not been problem free, and I would definitely consider alternative makes when replacement is due. Others to consider, Fiat/Citroen/Peugeot, Kia and Chrysler.

 

[DevonshireDave]

Hi Pete

I tow with an Alhambra 130 Tdi SE. I think according to the V5, is around 1808kgs kerbweight with a nose weight of 85kgs.

We tow an Elddis Odyssey 524 (MTPLM 1450 kgs).

It tows exceptionally well, especially when we have the car loaded with the family etc. Wet grass can pose a problem with the van in tow so we avoid CL's when its wet though wet roads are no problem.

Fuel economy varies. In poor weather, we may only get around 23 MPG but we have had as much as 31MPG in France and 29MPG this Easter on a 100 mile tow. Solo, at present, I'm getting around 46-48 average.

It's a great car, nice to tow with but a warranty is a must as these cars are renowned for problems with the auxillary heater under the rear floor which can cost upwards of

 

[Guest]

Just got rid of our galaxy [115bhp] and replaced it with a newer Seat [130bhp]

I concur the 85kg nose weight,but the MAX tow weight is stated to be 2000kg.

Have to say until we bought one 4 years a ago certainly not my cuppa tea, but they do make good tow vehicles with plenty of space to boot.

we got around 29/30 mpg towing, and when not towing 45/47mpg is easily attained unless its doing town work.

Really hard to fault, but make sure they have the correct tyres fitted load baring wise,seen many that do not!

 

[BurtonRob]

We tow our Pageant Bordeax with a 130 BHP Galaxy TDI. It is quite simply a dream to tow with. On motorways we average 30+ mpg. Can't reccomend it enough. The versatilty is great as others have said.

Best wishes with your choice.

Rob

 

[peter_374564710]

Thanks for the info guys I'm going to go for an Alhambra stylance. The fuel economy has swung it at the moment I have a KIA sedona it tows great but it struggles to achieve 20mpg while towing which means we visit more service stations than caravan sites.