Ask an expert

I am looking to buy a used 4x4 mainly for towing my horse trailer with two large horses around to events. Obviously reliability is a must.

I currently own a discovery 2.5 diesel P reg but the parts seem very unreliable when it is repaired.

Which 4 x 4 would you recommend?

Thanks for your help

Marion

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

The most important consideration is looking at vehicles capable of towing the required load.

This may narrow the field as you want a vehicle to comfortably handle the load rather than one which may be marginal as all you do is put the vehicle under stress.

Your current vehicle may well fall into that category.

Vehicles that spring to mind are the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the Nissan Patrol or Pathfinder. These vehicles are renowned for their reliability. I would imagine you would be looking at a towing capacity of around 2000kg.

Please promise me you will get the tow bar checked on what ever you buy. It's fine having a vehicle to tow a desired load, but without a tow bar designed for the same purpose, it can all turn to custard.