Message Forums

Quote: Originally posted by freeatlast on 17/7/2009

---

I wonder why the accent here is on the big beasties of the towing world. The OP suggested Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan X-trail. The X-trail is very much in the SUV market, where there is a wide range of smaller 4x4.

---

I changed from a V6 SRI petrol Vectra to a small 4x4. The Vectra was an excellent towcar, so I would be looking for something as good or better. Why was the 4x4 better for towing/driving.

Certainly better on getting out of soft ground. Our Tucson seems to float over soft ground whereas the Vectra would sink in, and I always had to be careful to park with the front on firmer ground. It is undoubtedly better in snow and ice.

Tucson has a full sized alloy spare wheel. Peace of mind when towing.

Firm springing, so the back does not dip when towing.

Tyre pressures the same for light and heavy loading which is a real bonus.

Cramped, not a bit, and does the B&Q run just as well as the Vectra, indeed nothing to choose in that department.

Worse roadholding. er... never noticed any difference between the two, but then I don't drive like a lunatic.

Noisier, true, but then the V6 was a petrol engine and very quiet.

Use more fuel, it is better than the V6, but admittedly not as good as some of the best diesel saloons. However, given that they all have very similar spec engines, I suspect that when towing the consumption drops to a similar level/or worse than mine. I get the same towing as I would do in and around town, consumption does not vary all that much.

4x4s have a lower top speed, therefore lower gearing. This is a definite plus. I had one Vectra with very high gearing, and it was poor for towing, even though it had a powerful engine. The V6 strangely enough had a lower bottom gear ratio and was far better.

Add on higher driving position, better ground clearance, more robust tyres, drum style handbrake for better holding on hills, then why not a small 4x4?

The issue between whether 4x4 or 2wd family car is obviously a question of individual taste.  I personally lean towards 4x4.  But then I have a Bailey Wyoming twin axle to pull now.  Even with my old Ace jubilee Viceroy (1400kg max) the 4x4 was better than the front wheel drive car for towing. That said, unless you get enjoyment out of a 4x4, it is an expensive option when you consider the amount of time you have a caravan on the back.  An Audi allroad (my previous car) is a good choice.  It is weighty, powerfull, has variable height and is, in essence, an A6 on steroids.  It's not so big as to get the eco worriers throwing eggs at you, yet very capable on and off road.

If you decide to opt for a big 4x4, go for it and ignore the misguided whingers who stand at the school gates shaking their heads.  They should mind their own business. 

Ant