Toyota HiLux Problems

No dramas and the price is great. He'll really notice the difference 20 years has made, in every area from safety to quietness, too.

A rear-wheel drive model would sell for $10,000-$13,000 depending on condition, a four-wheel drive model would sell for $13,000 and $16,000, again depending on condition. With170,000 km on the odometer, yours would likely be at the high end of that range, if it were in tip-top shape.

The Holden is cheaper because more people are choosing the Ford. If it's close enough on features, and ahead on value, then park the dream for some reality. But perhaps also cross-shop the Mazda BT-50, which is a clone of the Ranger.

Toyota spokesman, Stephen Coughlan, says the lack of an automatic is a result of overwhelming global demand for manuals in the Extra Cab models. "There is no plan at this time for an automatic but we will continue to monitor customer demand in Australia," he says.

Comparing utes and SUVs is tough. I get complaints from Grand Cherokee owners, the HiLux is being replaced soon and the Outlander is nothing special. The Colorado SUV is probably best for you but drive a Hyundai Santa Fe before you commit.

With your budget you’re looking at quite an old model, particularly if you want a 4WD dual-cab ute. You’d be looking at something around 2007-2008, but my concern with vehicles that old is that they will have done quite a lot of kilometres. If you want a dual-cab ute, and it sounds like the best option given your needs, go for a Toyota Hilux diesel. The alternative is an SUV, such as a Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Prado, but again you’ll be looking at older models.

A 2.8-litre turbo diesel is one of the engines announced this week for the new HiLux, with a gutsy 450Nm of torque.

The HiLux is all new and should be here around the middle of the year, perhaps a bit later. It's definitely worth the wait and I'm certain the auto will handle a relatively light load such as yours.

If Toyota has agreed to help you out with the repairs I would stick with them and have the car repaired, but if they haven't you could approach the government consumer affairs people and ask their advice on what action you could take. You could also consult a solicitor and consider sending them a latter requesting they take action to resolve the issue.

I bought a Toyota HiLux last year which I love, and it would be in your budget, but a Falcon would also be good. Avoid anything too old, also high-mileage, or with go-faster modifications.