Nobody so far has mentioned the key phrase nowadays - TRAIN WEIGHT. That is the total weight of everything being towed. Most more modern cars have the max. train weight either on their VIN plates or in the handbook, and that figure if exceeded will give you a hefty fine (or even vehicle confiscation) if stopped.
Years ago I towed a Volvo 164 (about 1500kg) on a trailer with my Amazon estate. No problems but illegal now. My 164 (manual 'box) can legally handle about 2 ton, but still isn't enough for a heavy-duty trailer loaded with anything much bigger than an Escort. I have done it with engine-less shells en-route the scrappies several times: was stopped once by the Police - who were very nice and were more interested in my tow-car!
To be legal do what I did - buy a Land Rover! Some say 4WD is also a legal requirement but I don't know if that is the case.
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