Anybody with a 4x4 give me some advice please?

[HinnyPet]

We really wanted a Landrover Freelander but my mechanic mate said only newer ones are any good.
So we looked at a Honda CRV but they are mega expensive.

We just don't know what to get or look for! Vitara? Nissan x trail? Hyundai? Nissan terrano?

We want a 4wd as we are in semi rural location, (the awful weather in Jan had us almost housebound) fabulous Which? safety record, a high driving position, diesel, and manual.

We have an ancient Scenic which we love but it is not well now. We can only get £500-700 for it, so we are looking at cars costing about £4000.

Advice would be great, thank you.

I had a freelander as my nanny car a few years ago. I loved it. I would however agree with your mechanic. This car was newish at the time but my employers had had problems with it since new.

Thank you, will cross that one off list ....

We have a Kia Sportage which is a fantastic car and you would definately be able to buy one for £4k. It drives beautifully, is reasonable to run, is spacious and has definately been a superb buy.