Coming round to the idea of a small 4X4, quite like the look of the these and would go for the diesel but have read some bad things about them generally falling to bits very quickly.

Has anyone owned one?

 

No, not owned one, but have very nearly a couple of times in the past 5 years or so.

If you do go for one get as new as you can. Pre-04's were shitter than a shite thing for electrics going u/s & general crap quality. The later re-vamped models are good but have a look on the 4x4 forums for some reviews. I test drove a 51 plate in 02 & it felt awful. Soggy steering & the interior was gopping. Think Disco & your there. New models are much better all round but you will pay.

Depending on what you want it for i'd have a Nissan Navara over one any day. I know its bigger but you get a shedload more bang for your buck & lots more toys for way below 10k. I've seen 53 plate mid range miles for less than 9k with loads of toys. Load carrying capacity is great too & the off-road capability is good with its 2.5TD lump.

Altenatively, go hardcore & get a Def 90 or 110. With the comfort pack they are the best. My business partner just bought one for the company from Ebay off a geezer in the Lakes on an 03 with 30k on it for

 

not owned one and don't intend to

I do buy more than my share of cars though, and the Freelander is one I always ignore

that's based on conversations with dealers who say they are more trouble than they are worth

maybe later ones are better as Ed suggests, but you would have to be brave

and answer the question of why you would want one, when there are much better alternatives available

 

Brother has one. it's completely shite, falls apart and depreciates quicker than it falls apart.

He had to reject his first one because of so many problems. And the second one has spent a large proportion of its time in the garage too. So dealer service can be shite too.

 

If I really needed a 4x4, i'd probably get a Defender. I can't think of many scenarios where you'd need things like a CRV, Disco or Freelander where a decent estate wouldn't suffice (like a Forester for example).

 

I think I have my answer

It's just the first one I'd considered and liked the look of although looks are going to be very far down the list of criteria.

Nissan X-trail?

 

with Graham

FFS, don't go near a CRV. Worst 4x4 by far..........as the saying goes.
My ex has one & its fekkin shite........i'd sonner drive a 51 plate freelander!!

Ed

 

What are the criteria?

 

He wants a tow car. And this has to be about the 15th thread he's started on the subject.

Graham, just get an sub

 

thread 15 of 127

Will probably get something cheap and nasty for the time being but want something half decent in the long term.