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I want to buy a SUV which would occasionally be able to travel easily and safely on hilly, shingle roads so I could get to tramping huts. Therefore I need a 4WD but a dealer has said an AWD would be just as good. So is that true?
Another issue for me is the size of the engine. I sometimes carry 2 bikes on a bike rack, one a heavier electric bike. And at times I use a trailer to take green waste to the transfer station. I have been told that a 1.6 model would be as good as a 2.0 model at taking this load but again I don't know. I have always had a 2.0 or more model in the past which has been very adequate. What is your opinion; would a 1.6 AWD meet my needs?
I can spend up to $40,000 so I can buy a reasonably low mileage SUV. And of course there are so many out there. Are there some (or one) which you consider to be above the rest when it comes to safety, comfort and which is economical to run.

Look forward to hearing from you.
Isobel

Hi there,
For your requirements AWD will be just as capable.
A 1.6 Turbo engine can have the same or more power and torque than a greater capacity larger naturally aspirated engine. The smaller turbo engines are becoming more popular of late as they are a great combination of small engine fuel efficiency and turbo power when required. Vehicles like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Tucson, and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are some fine non-European examples of this as we discussed on the phone.

Many thanks, Cade. This has been very helpful.