Toyota Land Cruiser Problems

A four-year-old Sahara will barely be run in. If you like all the fruit then have it.

I know people who run big Toyotas on gas but the maker has never recommended gas conversions on any of its vehicles. Does that help?

With modern stability control systems and on-demand all-wheel-drive you are far less likely to get caught out with understeer (where the nose of the car pushes wide) than you once were. Having said that, the Kluger — and the LandCruiser for that matter — aren't city-friendly vehicles. If you no longer need to tow but still like the safety net of all-wheel-drive, why not look at a Subaru Outback or Forester?

Jeep is overhauling its customer support systems in Australia and I'm much more confident in recommending the Grand Cherokee. It will also be fine for your towing and any off-road work.

On average I would expect it to be around 16.0L/100 km driven normally, but fuel consumption is affected by the type of driving, your driving style, the load you're carrying or towing, headwinds, tyre inflation pressure, roof racks fitted, all manner of things. If you're cruising on the highway without a load and not towing you might expect it to be a little lower, but if it's fully loaded, towing a caravan, and being driven on outback roads you might expect it to be quite a bit higher.

It's the LandCruiser every time if you're heading into the outback. The truck itself is just about bulletproof and gets The Tick from me. Toyota's service and support in the bush is legendary and could make all the difference if you strike trouble.

The MU-X is not as refined as a LandCruiser but is a lot cheaper and is a solid, sensible workhorse. It should be fine for towing and travelling.

The new Discovery Sport is an excellent car, both stylish and suitable for family use. I would drive a current Range Rover across Australia, although I know Toyota has the best reputation and support network in the Outback.

You will definitely enjoy a new car and the Prado gets The Tick but, really, the Isuzu will be cheaper and almost as good for your towing needs.