Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems

It’s odd that the previous owner has removed the compliance plate from the vehicle. I don’t blame anyone for not buying because it makes the car appear dodgy. I would be getting the plates back from whoever has them and putting back on the car. You could also try talking to the Queensland registration authority to seek their advice on what to do.

There are a number of things it could be. Start by replacing the spark plugs and air cleaner, and clean the throttle body. You could add for fuel system cleaner to the petrol when you fill up, and you could give it a longish hard run to blow out any carbon build-up.

A chain.

Most small SUVs are all-wheel drive, as is your SX4, which means it's an on-demand four-wheel drive system rather than a traditional one. If the SX4 does what you want you could try a Suzuki Grand Vitara, or a Nissan X-Trail.

You first need to decide the level of off-roading you will be doing because that will determine if you need a four-wheel drive or you only need an all-wheel drive SUV. From what you have told us I suspect that an SUV, such as a Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, or a Nissan X-Trail would be the best all-round vehicle for you. All of those would fit your budget, they will all go off-road to a reasonable degree, and they're all reliable. The Mitsubishi Triton is a hard-riding ute, which I don't think is what you want, but the Suzuki Grand Vitara is a good vehicle and would also fit your needs.

You need to simplify your needs and wants. Most, if not all new cars have the sort of features you want. The more pressing issue is the choice of SUV or hatch. While a hatch might be best for your city needs, it probably wouldn't suit your camping needs, so I would rule that out and focus on a compact SUV. Of all the models you have looked at I would select the Suzuki Grand Vitara.

I've done some checking and no one recommends flat towing with an automatic. You really need to totally disconnect the drive system, which means a manual. Many people choose a Suzuki Vitara as it is light and relatively cheap secondhand and also has maximum flexibility when you get to your destination.

You will get great value and a classy car in the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The CR-V also goes well and is slightly better value than a RAV4.

From my experience, the Grand Vitara has the best reputation for reliability and for you it ticks the boxes. Next would be the Honda CR-V, then the Dualis with the ASX definitely last.