Car Buyers' Guide: Towing needs

By Jack Biddle

NZ Herald·

2 Nov, 2013 04:30 PM3 mins to read

The Isuzu D-Max

Comfortable ride needs to tow the toys and suit trips around town

Brett is about to semi-retire and his plans this summer include boating and caravanning - but first he needs a vehicle that can tow.

"I'm selling my sedan and am now after something big enough to tow. It also needs to be comfortable and handle around-town driving with my wife behind the wheel at times," says Brett.

He wants something with a towing capacity of around 2000kg and is thinking of maybe an SUV or a double cab ute such as the Ford Ranger.

We covered the diesel v petrol debate in a recent Buyers' Guide article but, in summary, if the planned travel distances are long, regular and at times challenging then diesel comes into play more.

If it's a quick trip to launch the boat or have the caravan parked up in a favourite camping ground for long periods then petrol may be an option worth strong consideration.

Price wise, petrol may well get you into a later model or even a new vehicle, which should be the ultimate goal in those retirement years.

The other important point is interior comfort and the ability to drive and park easily around town, especially for a one-car family.

There's nothing to dislike about the new Ford Ranger; it has set the benchmark in this market segment on style alone. In your price range, however, you may be limited to a manual transmission if you want to keep the odometer low. Ride quality has improved on the latest model utilities but you still need to strike that balance of having a vehicle fit for purpose but enjoyable to drive in all conditions.

A robust test drive should be undertaken to check out things such as the turning circle in built-up areas or the overall vision in busy traffic as much as power and economy.
The budget: $45,000

Toyota Highlander (2012)

Isuzu D-Max

Mazda CX-5 4WD 2.5-litre petrol (2013)

Driven recommends

If it's a ute and the towing requirements are more demanding then look for a Ford Ranger. If you want a vehicle that is a little less robust, then try out the Mazda CX-5.