Thankyou X5sport.

The dealer has kindly agreed that I try the X5 out in towing the caravan. It would be a usefull exercise to do so to confirm its capability and to record the outcome here as well for future reference.

After reading your sensible advice it does appear that a 3.0D would be a more workable option. I can always save for it.

Hayman Reese manufacture tow bars/hitch receivers here in Australia. See http://www.haymanreese.com.au/index.htm

In their catalogue they list a hitch receiver rated at 2700kg with a ball weight of 270kg, formally 120 kg as they indicate in their listing. Here in Australia there must be a minimum of 10% of the trailer weight over the tow ball. This is to ensure better stability when towing, and this rule is must be adhered to by all who tow and by the vehicle makers - who for the most part dislike this rule as it means modifications for the Aussie market.

I read a post where the X5 owner (not here in AU) bent their towing hitch probably because he exceeded the 120 kg limit.

Regards and thankyou.

Cheers ....... Nick