Waits and measures

What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Waits and measures

I would welcome your advice on which 4x4 to choose. I intend to purchase new and keep the car for 10 years during which time I estimate I will drive 150,000 miles. I want a diesel engine and automatic gearbox. I am considering the Honda CR-V, Land Rover Freelander or the BMW X3. The BMW fuel economy is impressive although the initial price (with some optional extras) is higher. What do you think?

Asked on 9 January 2010 by SD, Norwich

Answered by Honest John

The new BMW F25 X3 is by far the best vehicle in its class: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/bmw/bmw-x3-f25 But readers are reporting an 8 month waiting list. I'd put the CR-V 2.2iDTEC auto 2nd and the Freelander 3rd because the Freelander has a timing belt engine and the others are chain. The Audi Q5 would also be worth considering were it not for a 6-month waiting list and a belt cam. And don’t dismiss the Mitsubishi Outlander II 2.2 175PS (same engine as the Freelander II). It goes and handles very well, has selectable 4WD and centre diff lock, and at 45mpg is surprisingly economical.

Tags: buying 4x4s

Similar questions

Which 4x4 to buy used?

I'd like to buy a 4x4. So far it's between the X3 and Freelander 2 but I don't know which model to choose used/ used approved. 99% will be on road use. I live in Brighton, so will use car to drive around...

Replacing a CR-V

Essentials are : 4WD,40+mpg, Elec sun roof option, five doors, Elec full driver seat alteration. Petrol or diesel (annual mileage approx 24000), elevated driving position an advantage. Due to high...

Inexpensive jeep

I will soon be changing my car and will have £25k-£30k to spend on a new or almost new vehicle. I live in a farmhouse that can only be approached by a single-track lane of about 1/3 mile. The nearest town...

Related models

Honda CR-V (2007 - 2012)

Roomy and versatile. Very comfortable, pleasant and relaxing to drive. not at all cumbersome. 2.2 i-CTDI diesel is excellent.

Land Rover Freelander 2 (2006 - 2015)

Bigger than original Freelander. 2.2-litre belt cam diesel. Incredibly good off-road. Robust interior. More fuel efficient 2WD model from 2011 with no rear diff to fail.