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

Which 4x4 do you recommend for city and desert driving?

Could you please advise my daughter who is moving to live in the city of Accra, Ghana? She will need to take journeys into desert terrain. She hopes to buy a high clearance vehicle, preferably one that would be reliable and easily repaired.

Asked on 26 January 2013 by WM, via email

Answered by Honest John
For simplicity, a Dacia Sandero Stepway or a Dacia Duster. With the Duster there is a choice of 2WD or 4WD. For ruggedness, a 4WD pick up. I like the current or old model Isuzu D-Max and current Ford Ranger, but for parts availability, a South African-built Toyota HiLux is probably best.
Similar questions
Volkswagen Amarok, Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200, Toyota Hilux or Isuzu D-Max. Which car is the best according to price and performance? Please give me advice for buying one of these trucks....
I wish to purchase a 4x4 pick up for my work as a forester, driving on rough forest tracks as well as the public highway. With a budget of approximately £4000 I was thinking of an older Ford Ranger, preferably...
I hope you can help. I know this is a bit off your usual track. We are currently looking for a proper 4x4 to drive here in Oman. I am not planning to cross Africa in it but it needs to be a real 4x4 capable...
Related models
Exceptional value for money – an SUV for the price of a small hatch, low running costs, hugely practical, large boot and spacious cabin.
Stylish and rugged looks, comfortable cabin, five star Euro NCAP crash safety rating, impressive towing ability.
Space and practicality of a small hatchback for the price of a tiny city car, low prices and cheap PCP deals make this one of the most affordable cars.