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What type of towing vehicle can you suggest?

I need something to tow around 2000kg, reliable, and fuel economical?

It will be used around town and for towing a horse float.

Needs to be priced under 20k.

I don't want anything too old and it needs to be safe (airbags and ABS)

Are there any 4x4s you can recommend?

Thanks!

Nicky

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

You may have to compromise a little on your wish list.

To tow a 2000kg horse float with a suitable 4x4 vehicle may mean slightly higher fuel consumption than you are expecting.

Anti Locking brakes should be available on most vehicles in the price range you are looking at, however, the airbag package may be limited. For example, you may get driver and passenger only or in some cases just a driver's airbag.

The next choice is between diesel and petrol and I think in this case I would lean more towards the diesel option.

Be careful though, as you need to try and find something with a proven service history as diesel maintenance and repairs can be extremely high especially with older diesel technology which you would be buying into. Straight fuel running costs on the other hand could be horrendous with a suitable petrol vehicle and the engines do not have the same low down power or torque you would need when towing.

Vehicles that spring to mind are the Nissan Pathfinder or Patrol, Toyota Prado or perhaps a late model Mitsubishi Challenger 2.8 Diesel.

All three vehicles will fit within your towing requirements, are relatively safe, reliable and can be purchased for under $20000.