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I'm looking for a car to take tramping in the summer and to the ski fields in the winter, ideally one that would fit four or five people and their gear, including a driver with long legs. I've been looking for a 4WD to handle the gravel roads and snow. My ideal budget is around 4-7,000. I'm not fussy about cosmetics, but I want something that's reliable and won't require expensive repairs in the next few years. Of course, the more fuel efficient the better, but I know my options are pretty limited there.

I have been considering the Subaru Outback, Toyota Rav4, Toyota Caldina, and Honda CRV and possibly also the Nissan X-Trail, but I am definitely open to other suggestions.

What would you recommend? Are there particular models/years that stand out for high (or low) reliability after many kms? How concerned should I be about common faults like the head gasket in the Subarus or the transmission in the Hondas? Anything I should especially watch out for when test-driving?

Thanks!

Hi there,
I think a great option will be a Subaru Forester 2.0ltr, or 3.0ltr Outback as the 2.5ltr did blow head gaskets fairly easily if overheated and could be a problem for older vehicles.
Foresters are not the prettiest of vehicles but they have room, ground clearance, and drive well on snow and gravel. They are reliable and don't cost the earth to repair and maintain.
The other models are also good options but would be older and have high km's in order to be available in your budget.