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

Which cheap, reliable vehicle would you recommend for towing?

My 15-year-old Mercedes E-Class estate finally got scrapped last year, so I treated myself to an E63 AMG estate. I love the car and I can still get masses of stuff inside and on the roof, but I can't legally fit a tow-bar, even if I wanted to. I need a car capable of towing a horsebox or car trailer that doesn't cost too much and is fairly simple to maintain myself. Even my 15-year-old Mercedes had so many complicated electronics that repairs became prohibitively expensive. I'm currently looking at old Land Rovers, but maybe there is something more practical (and comfortable). Any suggestions?

Asked on 6 July 2013 by JO, via email

Answered by Honest John
Like you, I wouldn't want to offload a 6.2 E63 AMG just to be able to tow something. Cheap tow-cars include Nissan Terrano IIs, Mitsubishi Shoguns, etc. Land Rovers and Range Rovers are generally a bit more risky, but excellent towers and with better parts availability.
Similar questions
I cover about 10,000 miles per year, mostly journeys of 50+ miles. I need a 4x4 to negotiate muddy/slippery tracks and to tow a trailer. I'm looking at the 2007 diesel Honda CR-V with 70,000 recorded miles...
I'm in a position where I need to replace my Suzuki Grand Vitara with a similar SUV or 4x4. I need something which can seat five adults, has 4x4 or AWD capability for towing and which will enable me to...
I have a limited budget of £4000 and am looking for a reliable and economical 4x4 vehicle to tow a single horse trailer (need 1500kg kerb weight).
Related models
The ultimate 4x4. Simply unstoppable off-road. Body panels easy to replace. Latest 2.2-litre diesel offers strong pulling power. Retains its resale value like no other utility vehicle.
Excellent tow car and rugged off-roader. Better ride quality than the previous Shogun.