Lumbered

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Lumbered

I am looking to change from having a main vehicle as a 4WD. We live 700ft up in North Wales. Currently we have an Outlander 2.0 diesel. I am considering buying an Ibiza Cupra as an everyday vehicle (if we can get one) and having a 4WD SUV as a second vehicle. The second vehicle needs to cope with driving in fields and towing a trailer full of wood. I thought about a double cab pick-up or used SUV. I have read your used car details but cannot decide. Looked at a few Mazda and L200 pick-ups and you seem to like the Isuzu pick up. I would be pleased to have any suggestions. By the way we used your often-suggested route of selling a low mileage 2000 SLK 320 manual at Sure Sell (BCA) Preston, last June. At the time most trade models of similar spec and age were making about £7,000 at trade. They suggested a limit of £5,800 but it made £7,400.

Asked on 30 January 2010 by D.S., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John

Another accolade for Sure Sell. Among pick-ups, the Isuzu D-Max/Rodeo I-TEQ 2.5 and 3.0 diesels are the best engines. Strongest, most economical, most reliable and nicest to drive. I bought two in Thailand: one in a D-Max HiLander; one in a Chevrolet Colorado. Mitsubishi L200 Tritons have the strongest and best chassis, and the best handling, but (until the ‘Long Bed’ was launched in May last year) the smallest load decks. Currently the most popular in the UK is the Nissan Navara, because it's the biggest, but it isn’t as good since it acquired a diesel particulate filter.
I’d also consider the rather ore civilised 2010 version of the Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 diesel. Power is up to a colossal 194bhp, torque to 422Nm (more than the new Landcruiser 3.0 litre), yet fuel economy is around 40mpg by virtue of a new 6-speed manual (or 6-speed automatic) and the manual can tow 2,500kg. From £21,495.

Tags: buying 4x4s sure sell

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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