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e_thompson
By e_thompson | AA Member | 2 Posts | 4 October 2011 at 10:41am

Hi there, I do approx 15,000 - 20,000 kms per year in my current 4WD (Nissan Terrano 3.3l V6 petrol) and will be towing 1 x week average over summer with horsefloat / 2 horses (say 2500 kgs max weight). I'm currently looking at upgrading my car to a 2003-2004 Toyota Prado and wondering whether to go petrol or diesel? The vehicle will also be my everyday work car to and from Auckland city. Cheers, Liz

jbiddle
By jbiddle | Community Member | 1657 Posts | 4 October 2011 at 1:41pm

Diesel is the way to go in view of the weight and regularity you will be towing. The low down torque benefits that Diesel offers will make towing much easier and the savings on fuel will be considerable in comparison to a petrol alternative.

You don't say just how far you will be towing the horse float so I have assumed it would be a reasonable distance each trip.

The higher registration and potential repair costs along with Road User Charges are things you may have to simply accept because of the lifestyle you lead.

Based on a proven reliability record the Prado is a good choice of vehicle but make sure you try and find one with a proven service history.

e_thompson
By e_thompson | AA Member | 2 Posts | 4 October 2011 at 1:52pm

Thanks for that, much appreciated. The distance towing isn't too far, mainly out to Woodhill Forest and Muriwai Beach so say 60-100kms round trip once week on average.