BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 11th Jul 2003
YOU will get a much newer diesel Patrol for the price of an equivalent LandCruiser turbo-diesel. Handsome, roomy, refined and tough, it regularly outsells the LandCruiser since it costs less and is not as bulky. Manual-only non-turbo 4.2 diesel pulls like an ox and is just as slow.
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY 4D WAGON (1994-2000)
THE clattery but economical 2.5-litre four provides good torque to help the Land Rover excel in off-road conditions. Although luxury and equipment levels are high, the Disco's ponderous and wallowy nature means the on-road dynamics are low.
MITSUBISHI PAJERO 4D WAGON (1993-1996)
THE flagship of the Mitsubishi range is jam-packed with luxury features as well as a gutsy petrol 32-valve V6, ensuring smooth on-road progress. Not bad as an off- roader either, although no diesel option limits economy and pulling power. Roomy interior seems dated.
JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 4D WAGON (1996-2001)
THIS car-like Austrian-made off-roader has looks, on-road performance, good equipment levels and the Jeep reputation going for it. Not very roomy though and the luggage area is limited. The engine is old-fashioned but gutsy and economical.