Ford Problems

I'm not surprised Ford wouldn't reassure you that the transmission in your car won't give you any trouble in the future. Realistically, they can't do that, at best they could only hope it won't give you any trouble. No one can predict what might happen, and unfortunately the reputation of the cars fitted with the terrible Powershift transmission has taken a hit with buyers.

The Everest has a longer list of safety features, a higher towing capacity, is more family-friendly, and drives nicer; the Prado is more refined, but feels dated, the Discovery Sport is a true off-roader with car-like road manners. The Discovery for mine. Another to try is the Toyota Fortuner.

There no difference between the models that I can think of that would cause the later ones to vibrate as you describe. I would check the idle speed in Drive to make sure it's not too low.

The Amarok is rated to tow 3000 kg, which would make it marginal for your needs given that you want to tow around three tonnes. The Ranger and BT-50 are rated at 3500 kg, which would make them more suitable for you. The Ranger and the BT-50 are the same vehicle, it's only the features that separate them. For me, of those you list the Mazda is the best value-for-money.

They all have child seat anchorages in the second row, but you're right that the Everest has anchorages in the second and third rows. The Everest would be the one to go for; it's got the most up-to-date cabin and would be best suited to your needs.

Ford's offer is pathetic. The trade-in value for your 2014 Focus is $12,000-$14,000, not the pitiful $5000 you have been offered. That shows how much Ford values the cars they produced. Start by going to Consumer Affairs and enlisting their help to negotiate a better deal, also consider joining the class action against Ford being run on this issue.

Opinion is divided on the PXII Ranger. Some owners think it's the greatest, others say it is a nightmare. Most complain about the paint, which is thin and scratches easily, others complain of rough changes in the auto, others also say theirs stops for no reason, and there have been the odd report of torque converter failures.

I am reluctant to recommend any European car, particularly those from VW, because of the problems that have soured the ownership experience for so many people. Rather than those you name I would be looking at the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V or Suzuki Vitara.

There are lots of SUVs to choose from, it's a very crowded market, which works in the favour of the buyer. The Territory of the vintage you are considering is a decent car, the diesel is economical and it would tow up to 2700 kg. Also consider the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Honda CR-V.