Thread: Help me! 4x4 Recommendations

Terrano/Navara, Bighorn, Pajero, Prado if your budget can accommodate one. KZN130 Surf is an ok platform too if looked after. Escudo/Vitara is a cheep wee run about that does well in standard form offroad too. Toyota Surf offers better ground clearance from factory the most other IFS based 4wds of a similar age. 2.8 Diesel engine in the Bighorn is pretty bulletproof, as is the 2.7/3.2 Diesel Terrano. Terrano has a weaker steering system looking at it from a 4wd perspective. Pajero has the strongest suspension/steering set up but is a heavier wagon and has a lower ground clearance than some. Also the seating position varies, Bighorn and early Prado has an upright position(sitting at a table with legs down, verses Surf and Terrano/Navara that have a more reclined position, (legs straight)
5K -6K may see you in a older/roughish Patrol/Safari which is pretty bulletproof, but maintenance costs may be higher. Things like the 10+ litres of oil and the two filters to replace every oil change. They are a truck engine that just don't stop though.
Pros and Cons with any vehicle choice, it always ends up being a compromise.