Opel Insignia Quiz
Driving and operation

Using a trailer

In this manual: Driving and operation
Introduction — 1In Brief — 17Keys, doors and windows — 27Seats, Safety Systems — 20Storage — 17Instruments and controls — 42Air conditioning — 11Driving and operation — 50Vehicle care — 45Service and maintenance — 3Technical data — 5Customer information — 3Exterior lights — 11Instrument panel light control — 1Reading lamps — 1Special lighting functions — 2
~2min read

Towing capacities

The permitted towing capacities are maximum values that depend on the engine and must not be exceeded. The actual towing capacity is the difference between the actual gross weight of the trailer and the actual nose weight with the trailer coupled.

The permitted towing capacities are specified in the vehicle registration documents. In general, these values apply to gradients of up to 12% maximum.

The permitted towing capacity applies to the specified gradient and up to an altitude of 1000 metres above sea level. As engine power decreases with increasing altitude due to thinner air, performance at altitude is reduced; the permitted gross combination weight must also be reduced by 10% for every additional 1000 metres of altitude. The gross combination weight does not need to be reduced when driving on roads with a shallow gradient (less than 8%, for example motorways).

The maximum permitted gross combination weight must not be exceeded. This weight is stated on the data plate 255.

Nose weight

The nose weight is the load exerted by the trailer on the tow ball. It can be varied by changing the weight distribution when loading the trailer.

The maximum permitted nose weight (85 kg) is specified on the towing device data plate and in the vehicle registration documents. Always try to stay close to the maximum load, especially with heavy trailers.

The nose weight must never fall below 25 kg.

Rear axle load

When a trailer is coupled and the towing vehicle is loaded to its maximum, the permitted rear axle load (see data plate or vehicle registration documents) may be exceeded by 90 kg for the 5-door saloon/4-door saloon and by 85 kg for the Sports Tourer; the permitted gross vehicle weight may be exceeded by 65 kg for the 5-door saloon/4-door saloon and by 60 kg for the Sports Tourer. If the permitted rear axle load is exceeded, the maximum speed is 100 km/h.

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