This is not about getting rid of my Prado or what to get next..... I've currently got a "modified" Suzuki Vitara for my exploring bush Trips and a Navara D22 for driving to/from work + a bit of exploring of SEQ where a bit more distance is required. As the family grows the room for 3 kids in the Zook will become hard and the same goes for the back seat of the D22..... So, I thought while I've got a little bit of time on my side, I'd start looking at what I can or could replace the Navara with in a few years time... (Zook stays as it's too much fun to get rid of just yet.....)
My requirements:
> Engine: Needs to be 4-cyl, preferably a Diesel
> Good economy with a reasonable range distance
> Transmission is to be an Auto so the missus can drive if req'd
> Suspension - ALL Coils with solid front end..... or at least Rear Coils with Coils &/or IFS in the Front (no Torsion Bars)
> 5 Seater so the family can fit in... if req'd![](https://www.pradopoint.com.au/core/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif)
> Must be able to tow our 1.8T Caravan
> Wagon or Ute...... Wagon is perferable but Ute is still an option as long as the back seat has enough room for the growing kids
> Price under $15/20k would be good
> Reliability is obviously important
> Limited to no Electronics to help with self repairs....
> Parts need to be readily available and a reasonable price.....
After a bit of research and driving in my cousins....and as crazy as it sounds, I'm leaning towards a Landover Discovery TDi300 Auto. From what I've found out, this model seems to be the most reliable with reports of many reaching the half million mark (obviously depends on service history). They seem to be cheap to reasonable in price as well.
The things that I've found out:
> VERY economical
> Coils all round with a solid front Diff;
> 4cyl TD Auto
> No Electronics except for the AirBag (mechanical injection)
> Plenty of room for the kids in the back seat
> Good towing capacity
> Spare parts are readily available via a few different methods (overseas being one of them instead via the local dealer)
I know there will be plenty that will disagree with what I'm leaning towards, but I'm open to others ideas & suggestions.... (remembering MY List of Requirements)
let the comments flow.....
My requirements:
> Engine: Needs to be 4-cyl, preferably a Diesel
> Good economy with a reasonable range distance
> Transmission is to be an Auto so the missus can drive if req'd
> Suspension - ALL Coils with solid front end..... or at least Rear Coils with Coils &/or IFS in the Front (no Torsion Bars)
> 5 Seater so the family can fit in... if req'd
![](https://www.pradopoint.com.au/core/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif)
> Must be able to tow our 1.8T Caravan
> Wagon or Ute...... Wagon is perferable but Ute is still an option as long as the back seat has enough room for the growing kids
> Price under $15/20k would be good
> Reliability is obviously important
> Limited to no Electronics to help with self repairs....
> Parts need to be readily available and a reasonable price.....
After a bit of research and driving in my cousins....and as crazy as it sounds, I'm leaning towards a Landover Discovery TDi300 Auto. From what I've found out, this model seems to be the most reliable with reports of many reaching the half million mark (obviously depends on service history). They seem to be cheap to reasonable in price as well.
The things that I've found out:
> VERY economical
> Coils all round with a solid front Diff;
> 4cyl TD Auto
> No Electronics except for the AirBag (mechanical injection)
> Plenty of room for the kids in the back seat
> Good towing capacity
> Spare parts are readily available via a few different methods (overseas being one of them instead via the local dealer)
I know there will be plenty that will disagree with what I'm leaning towards, but I'm open to others ideas & suggestions.... (remembering MY List of Requirements)
let the comments flow.....
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