Cee wrote:

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Hiya,

I would appreciate some advice on a tug for my van.

I've recently purchased a 1988 13` Windcheater van, 800kg weight, but am adding an extra 300kg when loaded, and I am now looking to buy a 4wd tug to tow the van.

So far I have considered a Nissan Xtrail, Subaru Outback, Mitsubishi Pagero, Challenger and an Merc ML270 cdi (although they are a bit harder to find).

I don't really want a big 4wd as I am a solo traveller and don't have a need for a people mover.

I've considered the diesel options, but I'm leaning more to a dual fuel (ie unleaded/lpg) tug.

Any suggestions?

Keep Smiling

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G'day Cee, looking at your vehicle selection I would drop the Mercedes simply on cost of servicing/spare parts when touring Oz. All your other considerations are fine and will  tow your 800kg + van with no problems.
You could also look at secondhand Suzuki Vitara 4wd, although it does have a short wheel base ( longer heavier vehicle will tow better) Hyundai have some very good 4wd vehicles along with Kia. (perhaps members with some of the above could add their comments with pro's and con's?) most of these vehicles come with petrol/diesel motors and some are able to be converted to LPG whilst some on the list are doubtful, I would check with manufacturer to be sure.
There are govt rebates avail for this but you will still be out of pocket in the region of $1500 to $2000 for current LPG conversion. If you want to travel to more remote regions you cannot rely on LPG being available when you need it.
Do you have a preference for auto or manual?
You are on the right track, between members and your motoring organisation you will find what you are looking for.
cheers,
Ozi
 

hi cee
I am a bit bias but I have 2 hyundais the santa fe 2.2 turbo diesel is also another good option just my 2 bobs worth
excited-newbies
Chris and Vina

I had an X=Trail for a number of years and absolutely loved it.

The only reason I got rid of it was because we upgraded the van and it was to heavy for the X-Trail.

It was a sad day for me.  I went everywhere in that by myself and felt very safe.   

It was a Jayco Penguin Cee.  Length approximately 14ft and weight around 1600.

The x-trail towed it with ease.  By the way it was an automatic and petrol engine.

I think the X-Trail is perfectly suited to us ladies.  So easy to drive and the vision from all round is excellent.   Hope you can find one, you certainly won't regret it.