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I own a Hobby bought in Germany, with fire retardant upholstery & 13amp British mains sockets. the upgrade cost was negligible compared to the full cost of UK vans. I have had no issues with insurance (Saga).

Quote: Originally posted by Jafa on 23/7/2007

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Surfer01, I wouldn't say the car has a battle with hills (and I suppose it does depend on the gradient), but it needs 2nd gear maintaining 30 mph on most average hills......perhaps that's the norm??? But the car cruises nicely on motorways and level roads. Wet ground however is a different matter - heavy car, heavy van and the rear wheels spin. Had real fun and games this weekend just trying to get off a grass pitch. Needed a tow in the end. Just out of interest, what did you change your Volvo for? We're thinking ahead to when we next change the car and were thinking Volvo (as they no longer make the Omega). Personally I prefer estate cars to big 4WD, but with our experiences this weekend on both campsites and getting stuck more than once (including without a caravan), I'm beginning to think that we'll have to look at 4WDs.

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With the Volvo I also had problems getting off wet grass standing as the front wheels would spin.  The same applied if there was a bit of mud leading on a hard standing.  Although the Volvo was an almost new 2003 model at the time, 18 months later we did a virtual straight swap for a imported 1997 Toyota Hi Lux Surf 3.0L d auto diesel and have never looked back.  there are some other subscribers on thsi forum who also have the Surf.  There is no issue with spares.

We have a new Yaris which we tend to use when socialising.  I only use the 4 x 4 for commuting to work and towing.  It is a brilliant vehicle and has no problem towing.  I get about 30mpg plus commuting and about 22-24 when towing. Road tax is £180 per year.  The bonus is the you can pour veg oil straight into the fuel tank without any modificaion on the later Surfs 1996 onwards however after the first 2000 miles you will need to change your fuel filter asthe veg oil cleans all the pipe work and tanl.  Also it is an easy vehicle for DIY not like the Volvo!