Thread: Budget Family 4WD

Hi All,

This is my first post on this forum, hope you guys can help me out with this one.

I recently started 4WDriviging around South Island when I realized my 2005 Toyota Kluger isn't exactly an off-road vehicle.
(ground clearance and the TRAC that cant be powered off are the major issues)

Doing some research online and visiting 4wd forums (NZ and AU) I found 2 options that fit my budget, under 15K.

Nissan X-trail Diesel 2012-2013 (petrol comes with CVT)
Suzuki Grand Vitara/Escudo Petrol 2008-2015

My needs:
Family off-roading/camping/ski field
Most of them by myself (only one vehicle)
Able to go through tracks like Nevis Rd, Porika Rd, Macaulay Hut Track
Able to do some river crossings
Daily usage (Christchurch city)
Driving about 10.000km per year, mostly in town

My requirements are:
As newer as possible.
Mechanical reliability (easy to source parts)
Below 120.000 Km
Automatic
Low maintenance cost, including fuel.

I am wondering,
Overall, what would be the best option?
Does X-trail diesel have any significant problems to be aware of?
What is the best engine option for GV? 2.0, 2.4, 2.7 or 3.2? (cost x benefit)
The easiest to modify (lift, tyres, underbody protection and so on)

Any other options I should consider?

Thanks for your help.

Marllon Braga