Nissan Problems

I wouldn't recommend the Captiva but the Dualis gets The Tick and is good value. 

For your main requirements, I'd avoid all four of your shortlisted models and go for a Subaru Forester or Outback. They are more car-like but will still handle the rough roads.

If the Pulsar is in good condition, as you seem to indicate, it might be best to repair it. A mechanic should be able to work out if it's a head gasket problem or a cracked head and from that give you a cost to repair the engine. It might be better to spend a few hundred dollars on repairs than spending a similar amount on another old car that might itself have problems. Trade-ins are generally passed down the line, from dealers to used car lots, until they are no longer viable and they are then scrapped. Check local used car yards. If they don't have a car for you give them an idea of what you want and they might be able to source one. There are also plenty of websites offering used cars for sale, and they are probably the best place to start shopping. If you need help using the sites, get a friend or relative to help. 

Some owners have complained about the CVT in past models, but we haven't had any reports about the current model here at Carsguide. The issue complained about is shuddering on take-off. Fuel consumption is also a concern. The Pathfinder has a powerful 3.5-litre V6 engine and reports say it can slurp 10 L/100 km on the highway and more around town. If your daughter is concerned she should perhaps look at a four-cylinder SUV.

The new HiLux and Triton will arrive in the first half of next year. If you're planning a five-year run for your new ute it would be worth waiting to see how the pecking order changes once they're in place.

Nissan spokesman Peter Fadeyev says: "Since the late 1980s, all Nissan vehicles have had a timing chain fitted, not a belt. This chain does not need replacing as a service-related item."

The main concern with the CVT transmission is shuddering, particularly on takeoff from a standstill. It's easily recognised if your car has it. If it isn't showing any signs of the problem I wouldn't be too concerned about it.

The kilometres done are about what you would expect a vehicle of that age would have done, but the price is high. I would think $13,000 to $15,000 is more reasonable. With a 3000 kg towing rating it would comfortably tow your caravan. The things to be aware of are low clutch life and high cost to replace them, and failures of the cam timing chain. The latter is generally put down to poor maintenance, so make sure yours has a credible service record showing regular oil changes.