Please help me find a used Midsize 4x4 SUV

[frozenpod]

There is a massive selection of vehicles in the class and most have multiple drive line configurations.

It can be very confusing.

Most vehicles are FWD and some variants have a AWD option and IE some of the Rav 4's are AWD with a lockable center diff button (pretty sure it is not a real diff but an electronically control clutch) whilst others are FWD.

[piscateur]

The T30 X-Trails are a hard car to replace, I have a 2005 model and cnat for the life of me find a decent replacement. It is decent off road with good approach and departure angles and had diff lock. it does lack power in climbing ability.
But it has tonnes of room and the back seats fold flat with the boot floor, so its awesome to throw a mattress in and go walkabout for a while.
Also its not too tall for me to throw a Kayak on top.
It is also Ugly enough for a bloke to drive this SUV.
So I too am looking for a replacement but haven't been able to land on a car that I'm Happy with.

[kahlua_khan]

If you're not looking into towing then have a look at the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Proper 4wd (high and low range) and not too big. Fairly reliable little things too from what I found so far.

[fishingvic]

There is a massive selection of vehicles in the class and most have multiple drive line configurations.

It can be very confusing.

Most vehicles are FWD and some variants have a AWD option and IE some of the Rav 4's are AWD with a lockable center diff button (pretty sure it is not a real diff but an electronically control clutch) whilst others are FWD.

I am actually starting to reconsider whether I actually need an AWD or 4x4 given I rarely ever even venture offroad!

He's an interesting video which has me questioning my personal need for AWD

looking at some FWD options now....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCjMvCynvvw

[piscateur]

If you're not looking into towing then have a look at the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Proper 4wd (high and low range) and not too big. Fairly reliable little things too from what I found so far.

Agree its probably the best SUV for off-roading, but you cant fit a mattress in it. And I do tow a boat occasionally.

[Brett]

Just get another xtrail, I'll sell you the wifes one if you like :p

[purple5ive]

The X trails are really hard to beat TBH, but since your now reconsidering then value for money you really cannot go past the Korean mob. Kia and Hyundai both have good units that are perfect for normal driving duties.

[fishingvic]

I've found a 2012 Outlander with the drop down tailgate in the colour I'm after with low KM's!

Only issue is it's FWD, which may not actually be an issue after all...

[frozenpod]

Auto expert has lots of great videos and he makes very good points in this video.

Re FWD they will get you there and back and you do not need AWD if you stay on the bitumen.

BUT the difference with the T31 xtrail auto 4x4 mode compared with FWD is noticeable even in daily driving particularly on wet roads.

The only downside is to AWD models is the increased cost.

[Ekaz3556]

Purple the subarus are definitely 100% AWD, but I still believe if the front starts to slip the power shifts and up to 90% can be delivered to the wheels slipping, there is no way of locking the ratios as is done in a 4wd. Would definitely be worth checking it out as it may impact what you want to do. Having said that I have a Subaru and love, best car we have ever owner and feels super safe in the wet.