Toyota Problems

You've singled out two of the best in the class. Others to consider are the Mazda CX-9 and the Toyota Kluger, but it's hard to go past the Sorento and Santa Fe. Comparison information is available if you click on car reviews and go to the models you are interested in.

All of the models you list would do the job you want well, so it comes down to personal choice. Add in the Kia Sorento and you have the field pretty much covered. The Sorento generally gets the most ticks from CarsGuide reviewers.

All of the vehicles are worthy choices, but you need to be careful about the towing ratings of them. The Kia Sorento, which would be my choice, is rated at 2000kg, which is right on your towing requirement. Others, such as the 2WD Everest, are rated to tow much more. Others, like the Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota Prado, are full-on 4WDs, and would seem beyond your needs.

That's a tough call. With its Hilux roots the Fortuner is a very competent off-roader, it has a separate chassis, switchable four-wheel drive, good ground clearance, a great diesel engine, and accommodates seven. The Prado's off-road credentials are well established, it's more refined, but it's heavier than the Fortuner, which weighs on its performance, and its towing rating is lower than the Fortuner's. Either one would do what you want, but I would slightly favour the Fortuner.

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.

There are quite a few reports of problems with the dpf clogging on the latest 2.8-litre diesel, but a Toyota spokesman told us there is currently no service campaign or recall related to the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on any of the three vehicles you reference.

Toyota spokesman told us that there have been "no service campaigns or recalls related to the components referenced", but he would like to have a member of his team reach out to gather more information on your "concerns and organize a time to give the vehicle a thorough inspection." I suggest you contact Toyota's customer service people and arrange for that inspection. Other than that you could consult suspension experts like Pedders to see what they might be able to suggest.

All of the cars you name meet your criteria of size, economy, performance and handling.

You could also add the Mazda3 and 6 to the list.

Of all of those I would nominate the Camry as the great all-rounder.