Buying a used 4x4 - what do you recommend? | Ask Honest John

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Buying a used 4x4 - what do you recommend?

I am replacing a 2003 Land Rover Freelander TD4, which has started to run up expensive servicing and repair costs. My budget is about £15,000 and I would like another 4x4 as I live on Bodmin Moor, with hills in every direction from our house. I have been told to look at the Nissan Qashqai. Is this a 4x4? Have you any other recommendations?

Asked on 11 March 2014 by Lettuce

Answered by Honest John

You can get a 4WD Qashqai, but most of them are 2WD for cheapness and economy. Unfortunately the 2.0 diesel has had a few problems, leaving only the 2.0 petrol as a viable proposition. The 1.6 is underpowered and problematic and only available with 2WD. A 2.0 X-Trail diesel can have the same engine problems. Better a 2007-2009 Honda CR-V 2.2iCTDI. Avoid the later 2.2iDTEC that can have DPF problems.

Tags: buying a used car 4x4s

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