Discussion - SUV vs bakkie vs kombi / wagon

[henriZA]

Happy (cold) Friday chaps

Please shoot with your opinions, here's our situation

• Family expanding and we will need a bigger vehicle as our main family car (Mazda CX-5) is starting to feel a bit cramped and low on juice
• We do go to Kruger / farm etc, do camping, tow trailers and looking to do more of this in future
• This vehicle is also the SO's daily in town, I daily the 5 series. My mileage is considerably higher over annual period and would like to keep it that way

We want:

• Something that can tow and take us places in more comfort and with more capability than the CX5
• Reliability & maintenance cost is the main concern here - don't want major breakdowns etc
• 7 seater or something wide enough for at least 2 seats in the second row (ie booster and baby seat) plus space in the middle between - like Amarok, Touareg etc

What I've considered and why (budget max R420k)

1. 2017+ Amarok Double cab, either 2.0 BiTDI or 3.0 V6 (mileage is higher on these and they tend to be moered generally). Wide enough and with a canopy would tick most boxes. the 2 liter mileage in budget would be about 150000km which is not terrible, and in town not bad on consumption
2. 2013 - 2016 F15 X5 - definitely the 7 seater, the split tailgate is handy, engines are great - would be looking at base spec, not M-sport, granted won't be going to Bots in one but should suffice for our purposes. Maintenance risk
3. 2010 - 2014 Toyota Prado D4D - Mileage would be higher, 180000km + at least, proven engine, good resale value, lots of space
4. Left field options:
   1. VW Kombi, Hyundai Santa Fe, VW Touareg, Pajero

Questions I have

1. How is the F15 seven seater and the space back there, good enough for toddlers on longer trips? Any known catastrophic issues on them? Anyone have the 2.0 Diesel in F15 (xdrive25d)?
2. Does anyone here's SO daily an Amarok? Experience in town, school runs, parking etc? This might be the most frightening option cause they not small

Thank you for your attention in this matter 🐸

 

[individj]

I have a large family and bought a combo for the weekends etc. I now daily it most days ...its got coilovers and 20"s with low profiles ... I am really glad I took it over a 7 seater SUV ...the X5 was the route I was going but I love the space inside with the kids and seats etc it is just really easy for that purpose. Now you could get a all motion caravelle and pop on tyres etc and take on some farm roads and the Kruger perhaps but I am not sure about reliability then. I kept it simple with FWD manual diesel. You are probably going to have to give the kombi a miss. Thats the only advice I can give to you. I have a Range Rover which I use for when I go out with less kids....was looking at a Volvo XC90 7 seater recently as I think they're nice but I dont know if they're reliable.

 

[Benji]

Volvo V90 XC is the correct choice

 

[Salt]

My opinion based on my experience...I am sure others might not agree.

• SUV - doesn't really give you worthwhile extra boot space VS a family sedan and take into account when they measure the space its up to the roof so you can't see using the rearview mirror - if calculated up to the level of the seats its probably about the same as a sedan). It does give you better ride height if that is what you are after. But do you really want to climb raised pavements with it? (New Volvo XC 90 boot space 680L, BMW 3 series 480L)
• Kimbi - awesome vehicles - so much space inside the vehicle. Have driven multiple VW Kombi's and the Hyundai Staria - boot space is not great, no better ride height and not the easiest vehicle to daily - in my opinion.
• Bakkie - double cab with canopy. Plenty of space in the load bin/canopy, can climb any pavement, great ride height, great space inside and if you buy the right brand, plenty of standard ince to have spec. In my opinion the best out of the lot. Plus if you want to take if off road - you are set to go.

 

[Tinuva]

I was curious to see how an AI would answer this one for you. So not my own opinion, but an worthwhile exercise. It processed your question and combined it with 6 different google searches for what that is worth.

Recommendation​

Based on your requirements, budget constraints, and focus on reliability/maintenance costs, I would rank your options as follows:​

​

1. Toyota Prado D4D - Best balance of space, reliability, and off-road capability. While the mileage will be higher within your budget, these vehicles are known to run reliably well past 300,000km with proper maintenance. It's a safe choice that will handle family duties and adventures equally well while maintaining good resale value.​

​

2. VW Amarok Double Cab - If you don't need the third row and prioritize having a wider bench for child seats, this is an excellent option. The cabin width is superior for fitting multiple car seats with space between. Consider a newer 2.0 BiTDI with lower mileage if possible, as it offers a good balance of power and economy.​

​

3. BMW X5 (7-seater) - While it offers luxury and comfort, the maintenance risk and limited off-road capability make it less suitable for your stated requirements. However, if most of your driving is on-road with occasional light off-road use, and you value the premium features, it remains a viable option.​

​

Final Thoughts​

If reliability and maintenance costs are your primary concerns, the Prado is the safest choice. The Amarok offers excellent width for child seats but comes with higher maintenance risks. The X5 provides luxury and comfort but with potential for higher maintenance costs down the line.​

​

For a daily driver that also handles adventure trips, consider how much off-road capability you truly need versus on-road comfort for daily use. The Prado strikes the best balance overall for your stated requirements, while the Amarok offers the best solution specifically for multiple child seats side by side.​

 

[Nishcat_M140i]

For me, its between the Prado and the X5.

For R420k, chances are you'll find yourself a very high mileage M sport 30d F15 X5, as well as a high mileage Prado VX.

Both, the 30d and the D4D are extremely reliable engines. The 30d has proven to be solid, but the D4D will definitely be the one that lasts forever of the 2. Another thing is the Prado's resale will definitely be a lot better in comparison to the X5, since they are very much in demand.

My dad use to have a 2011 Prado 3.0 VX and he did about 230k on it and he absolutely loved it. It was one of the best off roaders he's ever had. He would have kept it if he had more space for it. It did the job absolutely well.

Personally though, I would rather go for the 4.0 V6 VX over the 3.0 Diesel. Those engines, as heavy as they are on fuel, they've also proven to be a solid option. I would say its the better option if you plan on keeping long term.

 

[modocrat]

For your use case; Prado all day, everyday and twice on Sunday.

Prados are a plentiful at WBC. These vehicles are generally well taken care of by the previous owners.

 

[henriZA]

Volvo V90 XC is the correct choice

They are quite pricey though, quick search on AA. Pretty though

For me, its between the Prado and the X5.

For R420k, chances are you'll find yourself a very high mileage M sport 30d F15 X5, as well as a high mileage Prado VX.

Both, the 30d and the D4D are extremely reliable engines. The 30d has proven to be solid, but the D4D will definitely be the one that lasts forever of the 2. Another thing is the Prado's resale will definitely be a lot better in comparison to the X5, since they are very much in demand.

My dad use to have a 2011 Prado 3.0 VX and he did about 230k on it and he absolutely loved it. It was one of the best off roaders he's ever had. He would have kept it if he had more space for it. It did the job absolutely well.

Personally though, I would rather go for the 4.0 V6 VX over the 3.0 Diesel. Those engines, as heavy as they are on fuel, they've also proven to be a solid option. I would say its the better option if you plan on keeping long term.

Yeah those 4.0 V6 are reliable but the fuel bill might just kill me. That and the toyota tax

My opinion based on my experience...I am sure others might not agree.

• SUV - doesn't really give you worthwhile extra boot space VS a family sedan and take into account when they measure the space its up to the roof so you can't see using the rearview mirror - if calculated up to the level of the seats its probably about the same as a sedan). It does give you better ride height if that is what you are after. But do you really want to climb raised pavements with it? (New Volvo XC 90 boot space 680L, BMW 3 series 480L)
• Kimbi - awesome vehicles - so much space inside the vehicle. Have driven multiple VW Kombi's and the Hyundai Staria - boot space is not great, no better ride height and not the easiest vehicle to daily - in my opinion.
• Bakkie - double cab with canopy. Plenty of space in the load bin/canopy, can climb any pavement, great ride height, great space inside and if you buy the right brand, plenty of standard ince to have spec. In my opinion the best out of the lot. Plus if you want to take if off road - you are set to go.

Kombi is something I should probably consider. Have heard stories from people who bought and were incredibly happy with them.

 

[msm]

As good as the Prado is, there are 2 major issues.

1) D4D engine is agricultural and slow - not just by todays standards, but 15 year ago when it was launched in the Prado 150... Fuel consumption is also not that great as it's a big heavy car with a 4-pot motor that doesn't like the weight. If you've driven anything else recently from the Germans (E.g. X5 in 3.0d, Amorok, etc), you'll find the D4D lacking. Go test drive one if you can - if you're ok with the performance (or lack of it), they are fantastic vehicles.

2) Prado V6 - had the previous 120 V6 Prado one and briefly the 150 V6 (over a week). Epic cars that put the Germans to shame with the VX spec and comfy ride quality. The 4.0 V6 slightly addresses the D4D lack of oomph - BUT heavy on fuel. Also, if you ever drove a decent German 3.0 diesel, these 4.0V6 engines don't have enough mid-range torque to cruise comfortably with a heavy load. They keep kicking down a gear or 2 on any slight incline, especially at altitude. Forget the brochure based claimed consumption and expect 15-20l/100km realistically when loaded. On a downhill, with a strong tail wind and not loaded, at 100KPH, they get below 10l/100km... if you're keen on one, try to get a test drive on the open road for a decent distance. You'll either love it or hate it.

That said, both of the Prado variants will probably outlast anything else on your list.

 

[Clint@MMS AUTO]

Going to throw a spanner in the works… but have you considered a Toyota GD6?

The only reason I’m suggesting it is because I bought my wife a Fortuner 2.4D GD6 4x4 brand new back in 2019, and she’s been daily driving it since then.
In that time she’s never bumped it, Never scratched it, Never curbed a wheel. It’s still immaculate

Here’s my take after living with it for years:
👎 The Cons:

• High risk – but we don’t really go to dodgy places or leave it parked on the street for long, so this never bothered us.
• Insurance – R914/month (no excess when claiming)
• Tracking units – 2 fitted (insurance requirement). One is wireless so no battery drain. R325/month for both.
• Interior is basic – no fancy bells and whistles, but it’s functional and hardwearing.

👍 The Pros:
✅ Tires last 50,000km – cost R10k for a full set (Bridgestone Dueler A/T, fitted)
✅ 9 year / 90,000km service plan – all services free at Toyota
✅ Maintenance is nearly zero – only ever replaced brake pads (Hella Pagid: R800 front, R600 rear from Goldwagen). Easy DIY job every 20–25k km.
✅ Cheap EGR delete – R400 kit, no coding needed. Better fuel economy and noticeable power bump.
✅ Solid bakkie suspension – potholes, curbs, and traffic circles? No problem. No burst tires or bent rims even after hitting a few potholes at night. Alignment still fine.
✅ Remove 3rd row seats easily (6 bolts total) for loads of extra space. I Never put them back in.
✅ Excellent resale value – 4x4 models are in demand and sell quickly.
✅ Nice little extras standard – reverse camera, auto headlights, auto wipers.
✅ Original battery lasted 7 years.
✅ The only time it wasn’t with us? The one day a year it went to Toyota for its service.

I’ve only ever owned one Toyota and honestly, it’s been a fantastic experience: Reliable, Durable, Cheap to run and maintain. We’re planning to drive it until the wheels fall off.

 

[individj]

They are quite pricey though, quick search on AA. Pretty though



Yeah those 4.0 V6 are reliable but the fuel bill might just kill me. That and the toyota tax



Kombi is something I should probably consider. Have heard stories from people who bought and were incredibly happy with them.

im extremely happy with my kombi but im not sure its going to be great for your off road adventures

 

[Budleigh]

Touareg 3.0Tdi is a great all-rounder.
XC90 is a bit underpowered/4 cyl, but a great all-rounder, and cavernous inside. Most of the other SUVs can do people or luggage, but not both.

A bus is probably a better bet in terms of an all-in-one solution. The VWs can be a bit rattly on the rough stuff.

Lexus RX?

Sent from my SM-S901E using Tapatalk

 

[VinceM]

As good as the Prado is, there are 2 major issues.

1) D4D engine is agricultural and slow - not just by todays standards, but 15 year ago when it was launched in the Prado 150... Fuel consumption is also not that great as it's a big heavy car with a 4-pot motor that doesn't like the weight. If you've driven anything else recently from the Germans (E.g. X5 in 3.0d, Amorok, etc), you'll find the D4D lacking. Go test drive one if you can - if you're ok with the performance (or lack of it), they are fantastic vehicles.

2) Prado V6 - had the previous 120 V6 Prado one and briefly the 150 V6 (over a week). Epic cars that put the Germans to shame with the VX spec and comfy ride quality. The 4.0 V6 slightly addresses the D4D lack of oomph - BUT heavy on fuel. Also, if you ever drove a decent German 3.0 diesel, these 4.0V6 engines don't have enough mid-range torque to cruise comfortably with a heavy load. They keep kicking down a gear or 2 on any slight incline, especially at altitude. Forget the brochure based claimed consumption and expect 15-20l/100km realistically when loaded. On a downhill, with a strong tail wind and not loaded, at 100KPH, they get below 10l/100km... if you're keen on one, try to get a test drive on the open road for a decent distance. You'll either love it or hate it.

That said, both of the Prado variants will probably outlast anything else on your list.

Prado = Hijack Magnet


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[henriZA]

Going to throw a spanner in the works… but have you considered a Toyota GD6?

A friend is trading his 2.4 GD6 in over December 2025, given the pros you listed this is a solid option.

im extremely happy with my kombi but im not sure its going to be great for your off road adventures

Our idea of camping is definitely not towing a Mobi Lodge to Chobe. I want to be able to tow a reasonable trailer on dirt roads. Not gonna be doing 4x4 tracks. With our Mazda we pulled a small B license trailer to Kruger and it's not the most assured experience. The tank is also small. Would be happy with a 4x2 option if the other criteria are met.

I've seen many Kombi's towing and the space is amazing. but at the moment not in my top 3. Might just go drive one. Heard good things about the Viano also. But you're right, a fortuner will go further than a bus.

Touareg 3.0Tdi is a great all-rounder.
XC90 is a bit underpowered/4 cyl, but a great all-rounder, and cavernous inside. Most of the other SUVs can do people or luggage, but not both.

A bus is probably a better bet in terms of an all-in-one solution. The VWs can be a bit rattly on the rough stuff.

Lexus RX?

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Touareg are very tempting. The RX are pricey though

I am leaning to something more conservative. At my age I can't do irresponsible things anymore

 

[VinceM]

BMW 3.0d are sensible and easy to live with. Had E70 X5, F25 X3 and F10 530d, though not F15, its largely the same engine. It is highly reliable and frugal.

If you don’t mind 5 seats, there is a RRS SDV8 at WBC thats selling for R429k….whilst pricier than X5 to maintain, those Land Rover V8s are solid and have a lot of Oomph.

Was with my uncle not so long ago, and talking about cars, their neighbour has had their Prado HiJacked 3 times (she was lucky they could find it in all those three times due to 3 trackers she has in it). Might be an isolated case but Toyotas are high risk and with the new kidnapping trend, I’d steer away from it.

Double cab vans that make sense are too pricey relative to SUVs in the 2nd hand market, the older ones are too agricultural.

All the best with search.

 

[TurboLlew]

If I didn't have such mixed experiences with Mercedes, a V class would be very high on my list

From your list, I would go with the Prado.

 

[Mytfine]

I bought a 2013 prado 4.0 lt a while back so we could tour SA a bit, was gonna sell it when i got back but have fell in love and will drive it till the wheels fall off. It doesnt do anything the best in class but is superbly reliable, very capable off road, tows like a mofo and except for fuel consumption is cheap as chips to run.

 

[MLorgat]

2018+ Fortuner GD-6 would be my choice based on what you're looking for.

My uncle first bought a 4x2, then his wife didn't want to drive anything else, so he ended up getting another 4x4. (I feel the 4x2 is enough for the occasional off-road)

Father-in-law also has 1 since new and has about 160k on it now. My mother-in-law takes it up and down on errands, whilst they use it on weekends and holidays comfortably with 5 kids. (They used to use a Thule Box, but now there are only 3 kids at home, so seating and boot space is perfect.

In terms of risk, I'd say any car in SA is risky, depending on where you go and where you Park. As far as I know, both my In-Laws and uncle have never had any issues.

 

[individj]

dont shoot me...I think the Prado is great and I actually was doing paperwork on a black one because I had 20" Works SUV wheels but pulled out at the last minute...as a car guy I can't do a Prado ...its so good its boring.

 

[henriZA]

If you don’t mind 5 seats, there is a RRS SDV8 at WBC thats selling for R429k….whilst pricier than X5 to maintain, those Land Rover V8s are solid and have a lot of Oomph.

Tough choosing between this and an education for my kids

I drove an older Prado over the weekend and will have to take it off my list. Given the 95% short distance travelling we'll be doing on a weekly basis, the fuel bill (be it petrol or diesel) will be significant. Given comments above I'd rather consider a 2.4 Fortuner.

BMW 3.0d are sensible and easy to live with. Had E70 X5, F25 X3 and F10 530d, though not F15, its largely the same engine. It is highly reliable and frugal.

Opinions on this 2016 X5? If it has full agents service history, are there any major concerns at this mileage? What's 4 tyres gonna cost me?

BMW X5 xDrive30d for sale in Sandton - ID: 28088297

Used 2016 BMW X5 xDrive30d For Sale - R 389 995 - ID: 28088297

www.autotrader.co.za