Car choice: Shogun or Jeep?

Carl Thomas needs a 4x4 for some proper towing duties. He boasts a budget of £3,000, and adds that the selected vehicle can be in ‘scruffy’ condition, if needs be

(Mitsubishi)

A car for the head

Because Carl is after a reliable vehicle then it should ideally come from Japan. A Mitsubishi Shogun Sport would be a very good idea. These have an excellent reputation for reliability. It is a working 4x4 rather than being a style icon, which is exactly what Carl needs. We found a privately owned 2007 2.5 Trojan model with 102K miles and recent servicing with lots of receipts for plenty of important work. It has two new tyres, battery, a cambelt change and also some suspension. The asking price was a reasonable £3,000.

(Jeep (Jeep)

A car for the heart

Should Carl decide to use the 4x4 for some social, domestic and pleasure usage then a big old American Jeep might be a good idea. These are supremely comfortable and very distinctive. With a 3.0 V6 diesel engine, a Grand Cherokee will be more than up to the job of towing just about anything. We came across a 2007 3.0 CRD Limited as an unwanted part-exchange at a dealer. It is well equipped with leather, electric seats and alloy wheels with 158,000 miles in smart condition for just £3,000, but with no warranty attached.

If you would like James Ruppert to help with your car choice, email james@freecarmag.com. For more motoring views visit freecarmag.com