Any - 4x4s

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Mon 20 Dec 2010 17:42
Any - 4x4s - Macattack
I was wondering what is the best model of 4x4 at or under 2.0L engine size, irrespective of what year?

All help appreciated!
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Mon 20 Dec 2010 17:47
Any - 4x4s - SteveLee
That's a fairly long piece of string. budget? Age? The New Freelander is supposed to be the best off-roader and is (finally) supposedly reliable.
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Mon 20 Dec 2010 20:58
Any - 4x4s - Macattack
That's a fairly long piece of string. budget? Age? The New Freelander is supposed to be the best off-roader and is (finally) supposedly reliable.

I suppose some specifics would help! I am looking for something that will drive well in snow and under normal conditions - on road only. Need a 5 seater, not a commercial, probably mid to late 00s in price. Heard mixed reports about land rover so was wondering what else would do the trick - some vouching for Hyundai and Kia but I am new to 4x4 so I really don't know which way to go on this...
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Mon 20 Dec 2010 18:09
Any - 4x4s - rogue-trooper

depends what you want it for. If you want a really good off roader then the Freelander will fit your bill pretty well. Maybe a pit pricey. If that is a consideration then Suziki Jimny with it's low ratio box would be better. But then it isn't much good on road.

it's all about compromise

I wanted a car which had a big boot, could seat 7, had a modicum of off road ability, wasn't expensive, progressed at a decent speed, was comfy and did about 40mpg. I found one that ticked most boxes and went for a Hyundai Santa Fe. Well worth a look if you don't need an out and out off roader. I will put some proper tyres on it and that should help, but it does all that I need.

The badge doesn't concern me.

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Mon 20 Dec 2010 18:16
Any - 4x4s - veryoldbear

The badge is actually well worth considering. The chaps from South Korea are dedicated workers who make some of the most reliable cars ever .... and just look at the guarantees if you are buying new.

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Mon 20 Dec 2010 19:11
Any - 4x4s - rogue-trooper

very true. I really don't mind having a 5 year unlimited mileage warranty. I guess that when they offer these, they are fairly confident about their workmanship.

I have a 5 series that I have had for the past 10 years and before that a 3 series for 5 years. I did try and persuade the Mrs that I should have the Hyundai but she rather likes the heated seats. Anyway...I prefer the South Korean dealership. No frills really. I never understood what the point of having a snazzy showroom/dealership as all it does is "justify" higher costs.

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Mon 20 Dec 2010 19:34
Any - 4x4s - dieseldogg

Why?

I have left the Steyr Puch parked up whilst currently driving a FWD Octavia in the snow.

Plus I was on totally "white-out" roads today in a 7.5 tonner, up hill and down dale, ( & not on winter tyres either btw)

A couple of buttock clenching moments when I had to pull in whilst meeting other vehicles, plus a wee downhill stretch ( with bends) or two

I do not usually drive a 7.5 tonner( mostly just a car ) this was exceptional., and FUN.

Cheers

M

OK I do appreciate that in a few select locations due to steep hills/ private lanes etc a 4WD may be needed.

So an Octavia 4*4 on winter tyres perhaps.

Edited by dieseldogg on 20/12/2010 at 19:35

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Mon 20 Dec 2010 20:11
Any - 4x4s - rogue-trooper

Why? Why not? For me, I needed a vehicle to take me across fields and away from the pavement. Sure I could have had an Octavia but ground clearance isn't much cop.

Best car I ever owned on ice was my old Pug 306. Seemed to be able to go anywhere.

Out of interest, the Santa Fe does hill starts on compacted snow/ice a lot better than the wife's previous FWD car.

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Mon 20 Dec 2010 21:15
Any - 4x4s - a900ss
Subaru Legacy of any age your budget can afford. Fine car on road with dry tarmac and very good in the snow. At my works car park today, all the other cars needed to be pushed out. That included FWD cars as well as RWD cars. My Subaru didn't even slip its wheels driving out.
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Mon 20 Dec 2010 21:18
Any - 4x4s - gordonbennet
Could do far worse than a Forester for a capable all round vehicle with an enviable and deserved reputation for long life and total reliability, includes good road manners.

Subaru sold a number already converted to LPG which would make them very handy motors.

55 plate or older though (or first couple of weeks of 06), or you'll be paying £400+ ved...mind you who knows what this lot will do to ved in an attempt to exract even more cash from those who go to work, anyone's guess.
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Mon 20 Dec 2010 23:27
Any - 4x4s - Ethan Edwards

Nissan X trail. I've owned one for some years very capable and utterly reliable. Avoid early Diesel Turbo 2.2's otherwise bullet proof.

Not fancy boxy and utilitarian, does what it says on the tin. Must have All season Mud n Snow tyres though, Some owners cheap out and just fit road summer tyres which make the 4wd less effective. It comes with a switchable centre diff lock too.

2litre petrol are as cheap as chips to buy.

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Tue 21 Dec 2010 12:46
Any - 4x4s - oldtoffee

Subaru Legacy or if you need extra ground clearance Outback or Forester. Ultra reliable, highly regarded all wheel drive system and good dealer network. Skoda Octavia 4x4 or Octavia Scout if you want a diesel 4x4. If you want the space and large road presence then the Koreans are good alternatives to Land Rover family - Freelander - spend far less than you can afford and give the dealer the spare cash as a down payment for repairs and servicing ;-)

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