Recommendations please.

[felixthelogchopper]

As some of you know, I recently started a new job running the grounds maintainance team for a big healthcare company and part of the package I got was a company 'car' (crew cab truck) . As it's a new position, a truck has to be bought and so I am going out next week on a shopping trip with the Fleet manager. The criteria are that it will be about a year old diesel crew cab. Can anybody recommend/ warn against any of the usual suspects? I'm mainly interested in Hilux or L200 as I don't fancy the Ford Ranger or Navarra, especially after Big J's problems with his. By the way, I'm a big lad so any comments about space in the cab gratefully received.

[Big J]

Glad you are dismissing the Navara. Mine really is dropping to pieces. The clunking and grinding from the front right is downright comical. The garage can't find the issue, despite having had the technician wincing at the sound of it on a test drive. Also, permanent 4wd fault light on. Can't be bothered dealing with them anymore - the process for rejecting the truck has begun. Also, not much ground clearance compared to some rivals.

 

My friend got a Hilux the month before me and has had no issues at all in 37000 miles now. Even got front ended by a Fedex van, had a bit of a rebuild and it's still fine. Interior space is slightly smaller than the Navara, but I can drive it reasonably comfortably and I'm 6ft 8.

 

Jonathan

[felixthelogchopper]

Cheers Jon.

[Peter]

Hilux I always find a little agricultural and have a low towing weight, but do seem reliable.

 

L200 I hate the driving position, very low seat but that might suit taller drivers as you will have more head room. Also build quality seems poor on some, bumpers and wheel arch trim falling off etc.

 

I know you said year old, but my recommendation would be the new Isuzu D Max, best value for money pick up on the market right now IMO.

[Gray git]

Avoid the ranger as my experiences have showen the gear box to be made of rejected special brew tins!

I would have to put my vote for the l200 as you dont have landrover in your list, but check out the latest towing limits of all models as this could make a difference as to how useful each are to you.

[TimberCutterDartmoor]

I saw a few Navara King Cabs which I wondered about for the future; forget them then?!

[felixthelogchopper]

Keep 'em coming, chaps. The more info I have, the better. Tow weight isn't an issue as long as it will pull as much as my current Mazda truck(2.2 tons) and I am 6' 5" so extra headroom is a bonus.

[felixthelogchopper]

Hilux I always find a little agricultural and have a low towing weight, but do seem reliable.

 

L200 I hate the driving position, very low seat but that might suit taller drivers as you will have more head room. Also build quality seems poor on some, bumpers and wheel arch trim falling off etc.

 

I know you said year old, but my recommendation would be the new Isuzu D Max, best value for money pick up on the market right now IMO.

 

Hadn't thought of an Isuzu. I used to drive a Denver for a firm I subbied for and found it comfortable if a bit thirsty.

[dexta]

I have a nevera king cab,great usable space ,tows well,good to drive,BUT spent a fortune on it and so have many other people I no. Good comments about the newer hylux from some people I no,think that would be my next choice or a landy

[Marc Lewis]

I've had several of most of them and would narrow it down to the ranger or hi-lux. top of the list though would definately be the hi-lux. It is strong, reliable and lovely tro drive. plenty of room for the larger driver too.....I wouldn't touch the navarra or l200 with a barge pole mate