Are Estates far superior to Hatches for towing?

[William_5106786]

Are Estates superior to Hatches for towing?

I was advised of this and intended to buy a Octavia Estate but have now been offered a great deal on Hatch version, Any Comments ?

 

[RichardS1]

I would not say that they are far superior to the same model in hatchback form but estates do give some benefits. They have a greater kerbweight, allow more space to carry pets and caravaning equipment which you would not be able to fit in the hatchback and many are now available with self levelling suspension as either standard or an option.

 

[Lutz]

There's no easy answer. Some estates have different max. towloads than the corresponding hatchbacks. Otherwise, the reasons given by Richard apply. One additional point worth looking at is rear overhang (the dimension between the rear axle and the towball). This may be different between two equivalent models, too. The shorter this distance, the better. Some estates also have a longer wheelbase, which also helps ride and stability.

 

[RogerL]

Whilst I agree with all that Richard and Lutz have said - if it meets all your requirements (space, weight, tow limit etc) AND is a better deal, the HATCH will probably be the better towcar but only marginally.

In the case of the Octavia Hatch and Estate the wheelbase is a bit short while the rear overhang is a bit longer so I think you'd notice pitching up and down quite often.

 

[Dusty1]

I have an '04 Octavia Hatch 1.9 TDi 130 bhp and I find it an excellent tow car.