Story by Mark Borlace
Australian buyers expect this market's 'dedicated' off-roaders to conquer rugged and almost unforgivable terrain.
However, they also like a bit of comfort in their carriages. Even the most adventurous souls traipse back to town, and the bustle, at some stage.
The top three wagons this year were the same cast as in 2003, and once again it was Toyota Prado GXL which stole the show.
Prado buyers can opt for 4.0-litre petrol or 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engines. The other finalists have similar choices - a 4.7-litre petrol or 4.2-litre turbo-diesel in the Toyota LandCruiser, and either a 3.8-litre petrol or 3.2-litre turbo-diesel in Mitsubishi's Pajero.
It is the perennial qualities of torque, traction, gearing and suspension articulation for tackling hills, obstacles, ruts and creek crossings that makes these vehicles stand out from SUVs in the other two 4WD categories. These vehicles excel off road.
Although the Mitsubishi Pajero performs well, it is outpointed by the two Toyota finalists for overall design and function scores and drops behind in driveability.
The Pajero does throw up one surprise however. Against the trend seen elsewhere in the class Mitsubishi's Di-D version, courtesy of better fuel consumption and off-road scores, pips the petrol vehicle.
Eventually though it is a matter of which Toyota tickles your fancy.
Full Details: www.australiasbestcars.com.au.
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