Buying a 4WD Feedback

Submitted: Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 12:38

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Buying a 4WD

This article focuses on the major considerations when choosing a 4WD vehicle for the purpose of travelling and camping. We give some brief definations of the various terms used to categorise 4WDs,

Gohie

I am keen to purchase a new 4wd. I have had a 1991 Hilux for about 10 yrs. Looking at the new Mitsubishi NT GLS Pajero or the Prado. Both Diesel. Does anyone have any opinion which way I go. We do have a property where I do use the vehicle. Also needed for potentially towing kids horses to shows. Look forward to people's comments and reasons.

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Reply By: Member - Alan John C (WA) - Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 17:15

Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 17:15

Gohie,
I have just completed a six thousand klm trip through our centre and had both the above vehicles with us I had current hylux and we also had a triton we found the Paj a lot better on fuel than the prado and being manual the Paj's gearing suited towing better than the Prado and the hylux and triton about same on fuel but same senario triton better gearing that Hylux for towing hope this of some help regards Alan.

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Follow Up By: Gohie - Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 17:21

Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 17:21

Alan,

Thank you so much for the comment. Not sure if anyone would answer as I just came across this forum this morning. You certainly make sense and all the research I have done seems to point this way. The fuel and the gearing comments resonates with me. Thanks once again

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Reply By: Kumunara (NT) - Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 17:24

Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 17:24

Gohie

I cannot comment on the Pajero as I have not driven a new one.

I have driven Prados at work and can make a few comments

FOR:

I love the 180 litre fuel tank. Coupled with the economical diesel motor it gives an excellent range. Ideal for up here in the NT

There are Toyota Dealers in just about every large town in Australia. This is important should you have to get your vehicle services.

Good performance.

AGAINST:

I am above average size and find the grab handle above the drivers door hits me in the head when the vehicle sways on rough roads. For undersized people this is not a problem.

I do not like the suspension. The rear end likes to slide when negotiating bends on corrugations. It is however easily corrected and controlled.

I would consider buying one. I would have to upgrade the suspension and remove the grab handle.

Tjilpi

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Reply By: Member - Don M (NSW) - Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 21:08

Thursday, Jul 30, 2009 at 21:08

The Prado has a towing capacity of 2500kg while the new Pajero has a towing capacity of 3000kg BUT..., if you tow more than 2500kg in the Pajero, you are restricted to 180kg TBM (tow ball mass) or 250kg if you tow uner 2500kg.

I have not tried either as they wouldn't suit my needs with a 2750kg ATM van with a TBM of 300kg but if I was considering something a little smaller in the van stakes, I would have little hesitation in going for the Pajero. Yeah I know I have a Toyota but I am really impressed overall with the Pajero package.

AnswerID: 376861