Track Trailer Forum

Does a Prado have a MAP?  I think it would.
Maybe learn where this is as the MAP sensor post intercooler on my Land Rover  is what needs the occasional clean.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks for the feedback Luke. I'm pretty keen on permanent 4WD for relatively heavy high vehicle, which cuts out some options.

With the problems makers are having with meeting emissions standards, in starting to consider petrol options. Although it's hard to go past the amazing torque diesel delivers.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

RACQ released their comparison of vehicle running costs over 5 years. It indicates the 200 LC petrol v8 was cheaper over 5 years than the TDV8.

Thanks. I agree. I can't see us towing anything near 3 tonne.

Thanks Jim, some very good points there. Someone earlier also mentioned weight/carrying capacity on top of 4 adults and full tank of fuel. Weight on the towbar also eats away at capacity.

I did a trip from Cooktown to the Cape with a tinny on the roof and motor on bull bar. It worked out ok but never again.

The new Defender is due for release in a mth or so, but will probably be too much for me new. Also, no regional/remote support if something goes pop.

The extent that workshops simply won't touch anything outside the mainstream was rammed home recently when I broke down outside Roma. Couldn't get anyone in Roma to look at it.

Thanks, yes I did read that. So it sounds like the 2019 model Prado is ok.

Quote from: monktm on July 31, 2019, 07:02:50 AM
https://www.caradvice.com.au/727735/2019-nissan-patrol-ti-l-v-toyota-landcruiser-gxl-comparison/?source=trending&slot=2

Cruiser and patrol same on fuel will surprise a lot of people . Read the full report

Thanks, that's an interesting read.

I'm blown away by the price of used 6 year old 200 series.

Thanks for the feedback on your Prado.

Prado size appeals as in a few years it will only be two of us touring. So won't need the size of a 200 series, if something smaller will tow well. 4 cyl rego and that size around town also appeals.

I think a 6 speed in an auto is also what I want. I have driven the new Prado. I thought it was ok but nothing to get excited about, but have read less than flatering reports on the Prado 6 speed. Any adverse observations on the auto box from long term ownership? I guess I was comparing it to the ZF 6hp26 which is nice.

Thanks. I love the diesel V8, such a nice configuration.

Has anyone had experience with the Toyota 2.8?

Thanks for MUX feedback. We recently hired a Holden Trailblazer 4WD, which is fairly similar. I really liked the motor and gearbox, but didn't tow anything. It had good load space, and would be good bang for buck.

The only thing I didn't really like was the part time 4WD.  Permanent 4WD is more complicated etc but feels more sure on the road.

Yes the Y62 is one vehicle I've looked at. I agree good value esp against a used petrol LC200 of similar age & km.

Great feedback, thanks.

Most of our driving is on road to get to somewhere so comfort while soaking up the miles is important. My preference is for an auto but a 5 speed manual would be ok.

Most of our offroad work is beach driving or a medium level track to get to a camp site. I would like to do some more desert trips, this time with a TVan or Topaz.

That probably means a diesel.

Quote from: Gumb on July 28, 2019, 07:28:32 PM
So we don't comment on something you already have, what tow vehicle are you driving now ?

Good point. I have a 2008 Range Rover Vogue 3.6 tdv8. But it has nearly 300k km and age related mechanical issues are starting to show. I love it. Fantastic on and off road driving experience. It will be difficult transitioning to something else. But I won't be buying a bear new $90k car.  Also, terrible mechanical support if a breakdown happens.

I know this is a potential can of worms, but am interested in TVan/Topaz/Trackmate owners experiences of various tow vehicles.

I'm looking at possibly changing to another 4WD vehicle and maybe down the track moving to a Topaz.

So owners perspectives/experiences would be appreciated in terms of topics such as:
- suitability as a tow vehicle,
- economy (not a huge issue),
- reliability,
- off road ability when towing,
- breakdown support in remote locations etc.

Thanks