MANY owners are unhappy with the fuel economy of their Tributes. LPG kits are available and cost about $4500. With the government rebate you would recover the outlay in two years driving 15,000km a year.

I generally like the Mazda Tribute, but we have also received a lot of correspondence from owners complaining about fuel consumption, which is about 15-16 litres for 100km. When choosing a tow car you need to know the weight of the trailer, including all the gear you will carry in it. As you don't plan to do any tough four-wheel driving I suggest you go for a Subaru Outback. It will handle the sandy tracks you are likely to encounter getting to tourist attractions. The best part is that it's a decent car to drive around town.