go the Xtrial but not too sure if you can get them that low?
Mate has the "TI" model pretty comfy and capable offroad(beach sand duties)

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Chinese Mexican
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Have you thought about a ford escape or territory?

We've got a new shape diesel Xtrail. Good size, lots of storage and really good fuel economy. Plus it can tow 2 tonnes as well.

Yeah not keen on the ford because they are much more expensive. Also the older ones where puss.

Im talking older models Dan. Like 2005ish.

You may be able to get one of the current shape ones for close to what you're looking for. We ended up with the Diesel as it was such a good deal and the deal had they had with finance was really good.

We were looking at a Territory for a while but the running costs seem to be quite high, as you mentioned be carefull with the series 1 as they had issues with front ball joints.

Avoid escape like aids - horrid cars.

I loathe my mates CRV, such a souless car.

Xtrail would be my choice.

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I am only an asshole on the internet :)

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Yeah I had a mate whow worked for Ford. Told me to always steer clear of Territory's and Escapes.

I would chose Rav4 (Toyota make the best 4wd's, might as well give their soft roaders a go too) or an Xtrail. I also like the Mitsubishi Challenger or the Outlander, on the outside.. the outlanders interior is terrible, unless you go the top spec one. And there's something about the brand Mitsubishi.. I'd never buy one

People dont seem to say much about the GV. I dont like the rear drum brakes on them but lockable center diff and plated rear diff is good! Thoughts?

Pocket Rockets: Forester V Grand Vitara V Rav4 - Vehicle Tests - Overlander 4WD Magazine - Australia's leading four wheel drive magazine

^that article compares the GV & the RAV, for my money id get either of those, ive driven my mates RAv4 to bears a few times and it goes pretty good around town, downside of it is the boot is real short so seats have to go down to put surf boards etc in

although having the low range in the GV would be a definate win for towing/offroad duties

Russ, My sister has a 2003 Xtrail. They've got a load of grunt for a n/a 4 banger. Good on juice, she lives in Dunsborough & drives to Marg's everyday. It's never missed a beat in the last 6 years....And she's very lax on the servicing, once every 2 years if it's lucky

Loads of storage space, a/c powered drink coolers in the dash...cubby boxes everywhere!

I've taken it to bears (sand track) and there was no issues....They are front wheel drive when in 2wd too, in case you didn't know.

4cyl newer model vitara's are a piece of shit....Like driving a Sierra with LESS power.

My 2 cents.....I'd go with the xtrail.

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