Which 4x4?

marlot

You have a strange shortlist. The Discovery is from the next class up, so will always look good next to the other two.

Rather than those three, I'd suggest looking at a volvo if comfortable seats are the requirement. You could always get the 4x4 version of the V70?

[I'm not normally a volvo fan, and don't drive one myself, so this is not the usual fanboy recommendations that these types of thread attract].

As someone who also has back problems from time to time, I recommend an automatic, and heated seats no matter which car you choose.

Pixie5740

AdrianC wrote: »

The Disco is a lot bigger than the other two. If you're considering that, why an X3 not an X5?

The X5 doesn't get as good reviews as the X3 so that's why I looked at the X3. I also think the X5 has a smaller boot that the X3.

AdrianC wrote: »

Your originally specified requirements didn't exactly scream 4x4/SUV. You want better seats than your 3-series and folding rear seats (presumably your 3 is a saloon?) Sounds like pretty much ANY hatch or estate will fit those, quite probably better than an SUV with severe packaging compromises to fit the drivetrain in.

Sorry, my original requirements were written before I'd had my first brew of the day. Yes my current car is a saloon.

AdrianC wrote: »

OK, you've now added a higher driving position and ground clearance. Fair enough - but bear in mind many soft-roaders don't actually have much more ground clearance than normal cars, because they really aren't designed for use in any kind of terrain more challenging than a bit of flat grass. Tyres do indeed make a lot of difference, but nowhere near as much as axle articulation, wheel travel and actual ground clearance do.

Some excellent points, thank you.

Pixie5740

marlot wrote: »

You have a strange shortlist. The Discovery is from the next class up, so will always look good next to the other two.

That's because I don't really know what I want. I keep changing my mind. I started researching and reading reviews of different 4x4 and that's how I came up with my short list, 3 quite different cars.

marlot wrote: »

Rather than those three, I'd suggest looking at a volvo if comfortable seats are the requirement. You could always get the 4x4 version of the V70?

[I'm not normally a volvo fan, and don't drive one myself, so this is not the usual fanboy recommendations that these types of thread attract].

I think my friend has a 4x4 V70 so I'll ask him about it.

marlot wrote: »

As someone who also has back problems from time to time, I recommend an automatic, and heated seats no matter which car you choose.

Heated seats are a definite. I never thought I'd use them but now I wouldn't be without them.

keith1950

Hintza...don't think the OP stated new or used but the new Nissan Xtrail is worth looking at from a size and comfort point of view although the diesel is now only 1.6 engine.


The Discovery, whilst a more up market car, is like driving a tank.

colino

With that budget and the fact you want a 4x4 (need rarely comes into buying decisions!) get a diesel, auto, full-fat Range Rover. Once you have one you'll rarely want to drive anything else.

Nodding_Donkey

daveyjp wrote: »

Budget? There are now a wide range of 4x4 soft roaders, a set of proper tyres and they will do the same job as a very expensive to run Disco.

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LMAO, they wish

AdrianC

marlot wrote: »

Rather than those three, I'd suggest looking at a volvo if comfortable seats are the requirement. You could always get the 4x4 version of the V70?

You've got a good basis for comparison of the various different drivetrain/groundclearance options there.

FWD V70
AWD V70
V70 XC (AWD with extra ground clearance)
XC90 (SUV on same drivetrain)

jaydeeuk1

Get a fiat panda 4x4 and stick a hot water bottle on the seat.

Friend of mine had 1 series and the ride ruined her back, went to a range rover auto and loves it, quite happy to do an 8 hour round trip to Cornwall and still be able to walk.

Gloomendoom

Pixie5740 wrote: »

It's the clearance under the car I need for some of the terrain I would like to be able to drive on.

We had the same issue when we were looking to replace Mrs G's hatchback. Ended up buying a 2wd SUV.

Had it over three years now and don't regret it. Its replacement will be an auto though.
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loskie

I would second looking at Volvo if seats are a problem. I had an Octavia wanted a new Scout model but seats were no good for me. After various test drives got a Volvo V50. Many flaws but the seats are great. Recently had a 320 msport as a loan car whilst the alternator was replaced. I found those very uncomfy.
I would go with an XC 60 if I were you either 2wd or AWD if you really need it. Look at Drive the Deal for decent discounts take those quotes to the dealer but avoid Parks Volvo in Ayr