The real-world fuel and cost impact of towing X kg
Towing adds two big loads. The first is rolling resistance, which rises with the trailer's weight. The second, and bigger one at highway speed, is aerodynamic drag: a caravan is essentially a brick punching a much larger hole in the air than your car alone. That is why a diesel ute that sips 8-9 L/100km unladen can easily drink 18-22 L/100km behind a big van.
A small box trailer (around 750 kg) adds roughly 25% to consumption. A typical 2,000 kg caravan adds about 70%. Towing near a 3,500 kg braked limit can more than double it. Electric vehicles are hit at least as hard, so towing roughly halves EV range and demands careful charging planning.
Towing estimates are modelled from manufacturer consumption and capacity specs plus a real-world-calibrated towing penalty. Actual results vary with terrain, headwind, trailer shape, load distribution and driving style. Always stay within your vehicle's rated towing limits and GCM. Estimates are approximate guides only.
Search and pick a tow vehicle to see the real-world fuel and cost impact of towing