Ask an expert

I currently have a 1996 Toyota Carib 2WD 1.6 litre auto.

I am looking for a 4WD 1.8 litre, manual, 96 model as I recently took up snowboarding. Can I expect much difference in fuel economy, or is there any reason I should avoid the 4WD version.

Richard

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 29 September 2009

If you are going to the snow on a regular basis then it's a good choice. Obviously having 4WD increases the potential for unwanted repair bills but if you need a car to suit your lifestyle then that's the risks you have to accept.

Certainly Toyota has a proven reliability record.

I would take a good look at the Caribs big brother the Caldina to be honest. More room, more comfortable and not that much difference (if any) regarding fuel consumption.

Make sure you get a Pre-Purchase inspection before you buy and if you are looking at a private sale ensure the car has a Warrant of Fitness, not more than 1 month old, and check to see if there is any money owing with Vehicle History report.

I'm currently in the market for a 4WD thats smooth on the road but effective going to the ski field and handling the conditions without the need of chains. I like the Suzuki Grand Vitara 5dr but am unsure whether to look at the 2.0 or 3.0 V6. Am also liking the Mitsi Outlander. I need a reasonable amount of room to fit the average sized dog, two adults and luggage etc. Fuel economy is important and reliabilty and servicing of equal importance. I prefer a manual transmission but will consider an automatic if reliability is an issue. Obviously looking for low kms and below $20k. Appreciate any information you can provide.

You have selected a couple of good vehicles; both have their merits.

As more and more SUV type vehicle have come onto the market in recent times, the Suzuki Vitara has fallen off the radar for many buyers.

Vehicles like the Outlander offer a better occupant comfort and overall drive experience but it’s hard to ignore the workhorse like capabilities of the Vitara.

It has earned itself a great name for durability and toughness when driven off road. Their one known engine weakness however is timing chain rattle which can be a very expensive repair.

Any signs of an engine chain rattle would indicate wear in this area. My sources tell me the 2.0 litre engine suffers the most in this area and repair costs can be upwards of $1500.

The 3.2 litre engine has the same basic design but timing chain issues seem to have been sorted.

The Outlander comes with two engine options, 2.4 or 3.0 litre. The 2.0litre engine is partnered with a Constant Variable Transmission (CVT) which can take a little getting used to. The bigger engine has the more traditional transmission fitted.

Other possible options could be the Honda CRV or Toyota RAV4.

Thanks so much for this information. After more research and conversations with various owners of 4wd's I now have a few questions for the following vechiles. The Toyota Kluger and also the Mitsi Pajero have been in my radar. I've just sold my Holden SS so I'm looking at the 3.0L V6's. Obviously the Pajero will be far more superior in the 4WD but I like the lower and roomy Kluger. As I mentioned previously I want something thats effective going to the ski field and handling the conditions without the need of chains. Is there anything I should be mindful of when looking at these vechiles. Thanks

Fuel consumption was the first thing that jumped into my head when I saw the two vehicles however after owning the Holden this may not worry you too much.

Both vehicles have their benefits the Pajero is almost a go anywhere vehicle whereas the Kluger is more refined, more modern, more comfortable and more car like.

Because the Kluger is based more around a car platform it would also, in general terms, be a safer vehicle. The Pajero is more truck like and would not have the same in-built crumple zones to help protect occupants in the event of an accident.

The opposite applies however if the Pajero was to come in contact with a lighter and smaller vehicle (size wins every time).

A proven service history would be a high priority for me on both vehicles.

And I’m not sure if you can ever guarantee that chains will never be required regardless of what you buy.

Kyla, as Jack says, if you are going skiing, then it would be wisest to still carry chains, regardless whether you buy a "round-town" 4WD or a "serious" 4WD. Another consideration is the type of tyres the car comes with, as a lot (most?) of Japanese imports come with (or are changed to) road tyres rather than off-road or all-terrain tyres. Also, the typically larger tyres on a full-sized 4WD require more expensive chains. However, you did say that fuel efficiency was an important consideration, and all of these factors work against that ideal. What is most important to you (eg on a day to day basis), and what can you compromise on?