[D81]

G'day all.

Currently I own a 60 series cruiser. I love it but I've just landed a new job that involves some k's so the cruiser has to go.
So I've always liked the idea of a small 4x4 so I thought now might be the push I needed!

We are a family of 4 who like some road trips and mainly beach work now days - another reason to get rid of the cruiser!

So I have a few questions for anyone who is willing to help;

I love the look of the late model Sierra's but what should I go for - Jimny, Sierra or Vitara? What are the pros and cons of each and what are the best year/model of each to look for and what rough price range should I be looking at (I'm wanting something with under 200k's). I should point out that the main use would be around town - 60km zones, with the odd trip up to Perth so are there any safety/road worthiness issues once you start driving around the 100km/hr mark?

With regular servicing and maintenance, what is the rough life span of the engine?

What economy can I get?

In the 4 seater models, are there anchor points for baby seats?

Sorry for the barrage of questions guys but I thought I'd touch base with you tried and tested bunch whilst I continue to sift through the net.

I appreciate the help!

[atari4x4]

whats the budget stretch to?

i'd be looking at 95-97 SV620 Vitara's & the 98-06 SQ625 Grand Vitara's both will be nice daily drives with room for the family + the extras & do everything you'll want offroad. i know the SV's have 2 rear anchor points.

neither the sierra or jimny would make a good family car in my opinion.

[SierraDan]

LWB SE416 at LEAST!

[want33s]

Yep as above. Vitara.

A Sierra is an awesome car but even 4 seaters aren't comfortable family transport and there's no room for 'luggage'.

[D81]

atari4x4 wrote:

whats the budget stretch to?

i'd be looking at 95-97 SV620 Vitara's & the 98-06 SQ625 Grand Vitara's both will be nice daily drives with room for the family + the extras & do everything you'll want offroad. i know the SV's have 2 rear anchor points.

neither the sierra or jimny would make a good family car in my opinion.

Thanks for all the info guys. As for budget, I'm looking at $9k tops but obviously hoping for a bit less!