Ask an expert

Gday,
I've been reading other posts about tow/4x4 wagons. I'm looking at a 2005 Hilux Surf, the 2.7L petrol. I've been reading about problems with 2.4L diesels and that the 3L is great but I can't find anything about the 2.7L, can you help? I have a 20K budget and am open to any other suggestions. I'm towing a 6.5m tinny.

The only downside to the 2.7 petrol is that it's not all that economical, but from a reliability perspective, it has a good reputation and the Hilux/Surf is as good as anything in its class.
Obviously, for towing heavy loads, diesel is the preference due to the torque, and I'd imagine your boat is quite heavy, but if you feel that it's up to the job, the petrol should be fine - although expect a hefty fuel bill when you are towing.

Thanks mate, a couple of people today mentioned it might be a little light. I just been told I could get a low K's 2005 Prado Petrol 4L for little over 20K. Whilst this seems like a bargain to me do you think I would have to re-mortgage the house to run it? The vast majority of my towing is within 10km of my house. It's day to day life will be daycare pickups etc I would love a cheap old Terrano but the boss wont be seen in one.

Yes, I suspect the Surf could be too little light for towing a 6.5 metre boat. The Prado is an excellent tow vehicle but petrol Prados are notoriously thirsty, hence they're cheap to buy/hard to sell.
With a large SUV such as the Prado, diesel is really the way to go - but will cost more to buy as they are in high demand.