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Good afternoon
My wife and I have recently purchased a new car but in addition would like a 2/4 wheel drive that can be used around town and also weekend use for carrying camping gear to sites accessed by metal / poor roading. We would be happy with a 3 door vehicle, up to about 10 years old with a maximum price of around $12,000. I have looked at a 2000 Suzuki Escudo 1600cc but would value your comments on this brand / model and fuel use
Thanks
Graham

The Suzuki Escudo/Vitara is a very durable vehicle and is built more for the rugged outdoors than it is for comfort on the sealed highways.

Overall they are pretty reliable however, engine timing chains are their biggest weakness. While a chain driven engine has no official chain replacement period like a cambelt, these engines are known to develop a very bad rattle which eventually leads to a very expensive chain replacement repair.

Repairs bills from around the $1,800 mark are not unusual.

Another 3-door vehicle to consider is the trusty Toyota Rav4. If you were to consider a 4-door vehicle I do believe the Nissan X-TRAIL represents great value for money.

The Suzuki is OK but be careful.