The Shogun Sport uses the same gruff yet effective 2.4-litre diesel engine and effective four-wheel drive setup but replaces the L200’s rear leaf springs for a multi-link rear end, while there’s enough ground clearance to wade up to 700mm.
The result is a large and tough SUV that feels very old-school in its approach; it’s not the most efficient or comfortable family car, but it’ll shrug off a 3,500kg braked trailer if required.
How to buy a used tow car
It probably goes without saying that it’s important to know the weight of any trailer or caravan you intend to tow. By law, this cannot exceed the towing limit of your car. It’s sensible not to max out this figure if possible, however; it’s a good idea to leave a bit of headroom to maximise stability on the road.
It’s also worth noting that the very best tow cars will have a larger noseweight limit – the force exerted on the car’s tow ball by a trailer – than is legally required. This limit is set at four per cent of the towing capacity by law, but it’s a good idea to aim for a higher percentage than that to improve stability.
Given the importance of safety when towing, it’s a good idea to consult experts if you’re unsure. The UK’s major caravanning clubs are a good place to seek advice, while trailer towing courses are well worth the investment in our experience, even if your licence doesn’t require it. The government-approved Safe Towing Scheme is a good place to start.
Now take a look at our guide to caravanning for beginners…
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