Outer Limits 4x4 Board

hey all,
my parents are looking at getting a second hand prado in the near future. they are planning to pull a caravan around the country side (not sure what size yet probabally biggish) as well as use it around town.

off road ability isn't an issue. yet..... (wait til i get them up the beach or bush and they might change)

so given that i know suzukis and not toyotas i need some info.
what are they like at towing a caravan, or towing in general?
what engine and gearbox variants are there?
what are each of the engines like for fuel economy, towing and unladen?
reliability, any common problems to look out for?
anyother useful info that might be handy to know?


now i know i could look some of this stuff up and the post nazis will say search, but for those that have experience with the prados your input will be highly valued and appreciated.

cheers everyone, Mark.

What model Prado are they looking at? A 90 Series or 120 Series?

im not sure, they're prepared to spend up to $35,000

mrw82 wrote:im not sure, they're prepared to spend up to $35,000

For that money they would get a good V6 120 but if towing and touring is the aim then they would be better off looking at a late model 90 series should get a good TD GXL for that with some change for some minor mods. I have a 120 so cant really comment on the 90s

For $35k they will be able to find a decent 4.0L V6 Petrol 120 no problems, which in comparison to a 90 Series 3.4L V6 Petrol, has a lot more power, only slightly heavier on fuel and typically more comfortable to drive. I've towed heavy loads with both engines in Hiluxs, and they both go alright, the 4.0L obviosuly being better.

In a Turbo Diesel, you could probably find a higher km earlier model 120 GX, possibly at a stretch a GXL, but they basically have the same engine as a 90 Series. Wasn't till only a few years ago that the 120 got the D4D diesel, which is definantly a vast improvement, but out of their price range. For that money you could get hold of a 90 Series Turbo Diesel Grande (or even a TX) no problems.

So in my opinion, if they want a V6 Petrol, get a GXL 120, if they want a Turbo Diesel, get a Grande 90.

i just got my self a 2000 GXL 3L TD 69000kms for $29k and happy as with it . as a family car/tourer hard to find tho and it tows good