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Recommend a cheap 4x4 workhorse?

I am looking for advice on buying a cheap (fully depreciated) but reliable workhorse for very occasional trips to garden centres and still capable of (very infrequently) ferrying four people in comfort. Annual mileage is unlikely to exceed 2000, so economy is not an issue, but I'm guessing that primarily short journeys probably rules out a diesel? Reliability and ability to start after periods of infrequent use is critical. Ideally I need a 4x4, as I live out in the wilds of Hampshire. I had a Freelander in mind but I am put off by reviews highlighting poor build quality and reliability on the original model. I'm not looking to spend much more than about £4000.

Asked on 11 August 2010 by IanJ1984

Answered by Honest John
Ability to start after periods of infrequent use is critical. Nothing is significantly better than anything else in this respect. Diesel is okay for something of this age because it definitely won't have a DPF. A Shogun, Pajero or Terrano II should all do the job. Or a twin cab pick up.
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