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I currently have a Nissan Terrano ( 1997, 3.2 litre diesel, 215,000 kms ) to tow our Liesure Line caravan ( 2008, 6.0 metre, up to 2.0 tonne laden weight ). The Terrano has given great service but I feel may be getting close to retirement age. I would like your opinion on a replacement vehicle costing up to $22,000, not necessarily 4WD but at least rear wheel drive, either petrol or diesel and no older than say 2004. It seems to me that there is not a lot of difference in operating costs between petrol and diesel vehicles.

If you are going to tow the caravan on a regular basis then Diesel is the way to go for me. Towing that size van with a petrol vehicle will drain your fuel tank faster than you believe or are use to.

Clearly this is where Diesels shine.

A couple of possible options would be the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Toyota Prado. A low mileage Mitsubishi Pajero 2.8litre is another possibility.

I agree with your comments on age but also try and find a vehicle with a proven service history and the lowest odometer reading possible .

Thanks for that, Jack.

What about a ford territory?, as on average people only tow for 10 days a year, while it will drink like a fish during towing there cost is less than a diesel( to buy ) and lower servicing cost.