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

Which car would you advise for towing in muddy fields?

My daughter has enjoyed her 2005 Volkswagen Golf GTI, but now it is time to change. The Golf has done all she could ask, including pulling a small caravan, except that it is not good at coping when towing in a muddy field. For her next car, she would like all the good things she's used to but with a four-wheel drive that can be selected when required. She does not want a large SUV if it can be avoided. A diesel would be ok, provided that it's suitable for very short journeys without particulate filter problems.

Asked on 11 March 2012 by RM, via email

Answered by Honest John
All diesels now have diesel particulate filters and the jury is still out as to whether the technology has been improved sufficiently to run them for successive short distances. What she might like is a Skoda Yeti 1.8TSI 4WD, that drives and handles better than a Volkswagen Golf GTI but with the same sort of character, and, of course, has the advantage of four-wheel drive.
Similar questions
Would you be kind enough, please, to recommend a car that will do approximately 10,000 miles per annum, and will last for the next ten years, will do at least 10 miles per litre in mainly rural and small...
I have a 2008 Focus Zetec 1.8 TDCI estate with 42,000 miles recorded. You described the engine as "awful" and you were right. Despite remapping it has a considerable flat spot just above tickover that...
I currently drive a 2009 Skoda Roomster 1.4 turbo diesel, which is fine for towing my small dinghy. However, I am considering buying a bigger boat and will need a vehicle that can comfortably tow 650 kilos....
Related models
Unique styling. Solid build. Excellent petrol engines including frugal yet peppy 1.2 TSI. Good space in the back. Frugal 1.6 TDI Greenline can return 60mpg+.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer