Anyone got newer model Rav4 or Grand Vitara?

[EmmaB]

As title really, looking for a small diesel 4x4 and the newer models of these are the only ones I can really find. Anyone got either of them?

Don't want to tow, just that my ka I currently have can't cope too well with the rough tracks and all the crap I carry around, could do with a bit more space but don't want something big so was looking at the 3 door versions.

 

[ladyt25]

I had the new shape vitara a few years back. Loved it! only downside is how the back seats fold and tie to the front seats. I don't know if they've changed that? Fantastic 4wd though - the DDis is the one you need as has option for locking in 4wd in low gear so if you really get stuck in mud/ice etc. Have to say I never ever struggled in even some of the really bad snow we had a few years back. Only sold it as it was on finance but I bought a house so couldn't afford mortgage and the car :-(

 

[Cowpony]

I've got the new Rav4 and love it! I don't use it for driving on rough tracks but it's got really good ground clearance so I would imagine it would be fine. I have the diesel one and they come in 2 versions - 2l 2-wheel drive and 2.2l 4-wheel drive. I got the 2-wheel drive version because the 4-wheel drive was much more expensive and the fuel consumption much worse (and TBH most of my driving is on roads in town). The only time mine has been off-road was when I had to park in a field at a show. It was tipping with rain and the surface was like cream because there was so much water mixed with the mud and floating on the top. The car didn't cope at all well and only just made it to the gate, where there was some hardcore, thank goodness! Somebody told me you can press a button somewhere to make the wheels move independently to cope with this, but I have to confess I haven't read the book in detail so have yet to find it. My view is that the 2-wheel drive is more of a posh town car than a true off-road vehicle. Still love it though!

 

[southerncomfort]

Not really relevant but we have an older Grand Vitara XL7 which we tow with and it's been excellent. Suits us down to the ground as it's also 7 seater so we can fit the whole clan in!