Forester or Rav4

[ptc]

Suzuki quality is first class check one out.

[bitingmidge]

FWIW,
I have crawled all over a Suzuki SX4, and they are a fabulous new little niche market car. They are small, but could comfortably carry four adults, have the full 200 mm ground clearance and represent fabulous value.

We didn't buy one, got the 2.7l Grand Vitara after checking out all the others.

It's the only "proper" 4wd in the bunch (with low range and a few other tough bits) and the lowest price by by far for what it's worth.

Cheers,

P

[masoth]

I am not looking to go bush bashing.
Just want a good reliable small wagon with the added safety of 4X4.
The Forester takes 215/60 R16 94H, and these are available in other brands than Yokohama. Goodyear Eagle being just one.Thanks Macca

Macca, I don't want to appear rude but can't help wondering if you NEED or WANT a 4X4. Driving skill and anticipation are the major driving safety factors. If, for instance, you drive only in Perth and suburbs the additional costs will not be worth the end use. However, if you believe you'll FEEL safer then perhaps an AWD is a better choice for you.
Many years ago 'we' used to purposely put learner drivers in situations to test thier watchfulness over wet, dry, shifting sand and dunes, and devised methods to avoid traps - 4X4s were not available in lighter vehicles and VERY RARELY did the drivers need assistance, and really careful driving is still required in 4X4s.
Consider your NEEDS before spending your money.
Please don't be offended by this suggestion.

soth

[TassieKiwi]

Don't overlook the Kluger - the current deals look very good. All the running gear is Lexus 330, verrry smooth.

[Black Ned]

You should get a Nissan N-trail.

Gutsy vehicle!

[macca2]

Hi Soth....thanks for your input and no offence taken. Thanks to all others who have offered their advice.
I was looking at the small "softroaders" mainly for the seat height. I have recently migrated to a wheelchair and thought the seat height in a "softroader" would be easier to get into and out of.
However I have to have the vehicle converted to hand controls and also have a wheelchair hoist fitted on the roof.
The height of all the "softroaders" plus a hoist will not fit under my garage door, so I am now looking at something lower. i.e. Lancer or Corolla wagon.
Its either that or dig out the garage floor by about 200mm and replace the driveway and then fit a new garage door and so on etc. etc. $$$$$$$
Any more advice willingly accepted.

Macca

[masoth]

Macca, Why on the roof of whatever vehicle (a non folding chair)? There are back-end wheel chair carriers that seem easy to use. I judge this on an elderly, wheel-chair user in my street.
I'm not certain, but the chair is, I think, folded and lifted into place electronically then the lady users sticks to enter her vehicle. Her higher vehicle allows her easier entry.

soth

[dazzler]

Hi Macca

What about a toyota Avenis. They have a low roof height, adjustable seating and a similar seat set up to the soft roaders.

I found it comfortable for my arthritic knees where I need a decent angle to stop the pain.

They are well made too though not cheap .

[masoth]

Tassie K has mentioned the Kluger which was thought to be an excellent vehicle, but recently some companies are opting to replace the Kluger in the fleet range. They, seemingly, are facing too many niggerly problems. I almost bought one 18 months ago.

soth

[macca2]

I have a folding chair. The hoist is elctricaly operated from the driving seat. It picks up the chair verticaly and raises it to roof height and then lays flat on the roof rack. Two made in Australia....Wymo, and Sto'N'Go
I have looked at the rear mounted hoist but for me it is too difficult to fold the chair and load it while standing at the rear of the vehicle. I then have to walk to the driving seat. Not an easy task.

Thanks
macca

[masoth]

Ah, right. I'd forgotten those side operated lifts.

soth

[macca2]

Hi daz...Avenis is 1675mm, Forester 1590mm, Suzuki G Vitara 1695mm, Honda CRV 1710mm, Rav 4 1730mm and the Lancer is 1465mm.
The carrier plus chair is apprx 470mm above roof line.

Macca

[masoth]

Macca,do youg get purchasing/alteration asistance? I ask because, if you do, it may open other vehicles to consider.

soth

[macca2]

Soth, not from the government, but some assistance in conversion from Lotteries Commition, if you qualify. (means tested)

Macca

[TassieKiwi]

Tassie K has mentioned the Kluger which was thought to be an excellent vehicle, but recently some companies are opting to replace the Kluger in the fleet range. They, seemingly, are facing too many niggerly problems. I almost bought one 18 months ago.

soth

Everyone knows that Toyotas don't break! Any evidence or real information? That sentence could be lifted straight out of the 'No Idea' mag. I haven't had any 'niggerly' problems in 110,000 k's.