Toyota HiLux Problems

It's not as simple as increasing your vehicle's grunt, you also have the bear in mind its braking and handling, and things like its springs, shock absorbers, wheels and tyres. You also have to be aware that by exceeding a vehicle's maximum towing load you could void your insurance and actually be illegal.

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.

Not in a car that’s nine years old and six years out of warranty. Things go wrong, even in a Toyota.

The Ranger gets The Tick and is a clear winner from the Amarok. The all-new Navara is not even close. But we're expecting a new Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota HiLux in the first half of 2015, so check back nearer then.

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.

There is no legal requirement that a used car must have a jack, but reputable dealers usually make sure there is one before they sell it. I would take the car back and ask the dealer to supply you with one.

The Ranger is the winner, ahead of the Colorado and the HiLux (which gets replaced in the first half of next year). But don't forget to cross-shop the Ranger's Mazda BT-50 twin.

Right now, with the HiLux set for a total replacement in the first half of next year, the Ford and Mazda are the better choices and get The Tick. Ford developed the car but shoppers report better deals on the BT-50.