Thread: Towing larg(er) caravans

I think you also need to compare the specification levels of a D4 SE 3.0 to a LC200 GXL Diesel.
IMO the D4 is better specced than a GXL. I personally couldn't tolerate the velour trim in the LC200 that looks like they borrowed form a 1990s Avalon! I think the VX is probably a closer match in spec to a D4SE, add another $10k for a VX!
Also you should check what options you want, for example on the LC200 their answer to wheel articulation for offroading and onroad handling is KDSS, however this is not standard on a GXL diesel + $2500. LC200 do have side steps, roof rails and reversing cameras standard D4 doesn't...
It's not easy but you need to compare everything you get.

Originally Posted by MartyJB

I think you also need to compare the specification levels of a D4 SE 3.0 to a LC200 GXL Diesel.
IMO the D4 is better specced than a GXL. I personally couldn't tolerate the velour trim in the LC200 that looks like they borrowed form a 1990s Avalon! I think the VX is probably a closer match in spec to a D4SE, add another $10k for a VX!
Also you should check what options you want, for example on the LC200 their answer to wheel articulation for offroading and onroad handling is KDSS, however this is not standard on a GXL diesel + $2500. LC200 do have side steps, roof rails and reversing cameras standard D4 doesn't...
It's not easy but you need to compare everything you get.

If the vehicle ( LC200 ) has KDSS and 3rd row seating, there is very little excess left on the allowable GVM. It would pay to check carefully on the intended load and use. A GVM upgrade can easily add another $5000 to the cost.

After looking at all available data and comparing many figures and vehicle standard fitment, reading reviews and reading the comments on this site (which have been free of any bashing of other manufactures as in some other sites), I have made a decision.

We will go for the Discovery 4 SD V6 3.0L, inlieu of the LC200 and Discovery 4 2.7L.

Comparing it to the 2.7L, there is a big difference in torque, and with the different gearbox and brakes etc, I agree the 3.0L is the better option.

When comparing the 3.0L to the Landcruiser with its 4.5L engine, the torque is 600 vs 650 and power to weight ratio 185 vs 197. I don't consider the differences to be terribly significant. Especially when coupled with the standard towing features of the Discovery.

Looking at the ratio between the rpm at max power, to the rpm at max torque, I get 1:2 vs 1:1.6 (Toyota state torque at 650 @ 1600 rpm to 2600 rpm. I took the middle at 2100 to base my calculations). Using Toyotas figure of 1600, you get a ratio of 1:2.1 (1 to 2 point 1) or using 2600, a figure of 1:1.3. Again the Discovery 3.0L is at 1:2.

Just in closing, again I appreciate all of the comments and advise that has been provided to me through this Forum.

Best wishes to everyone.

Originally Posted by Dahai

After looking at all available data and comparing many figures and vehicle standard fitment, reading reviews and reading the comments on this site (which have been free of any bashing of other manufactures as in some other sites), I have made a decision.

We will go for the Discovery 4 SD V6 3.0L, inlieu of the LC200 and Discovery 4 2.7L.

Comparing it to the 2.7L, there is a big difference in torque, and with the different gearbox and brakes etc, I agree the 3.0L is the better option.

When comparing the 3.0L to the Landcruiser with its 4.5L engine, the torque is 600 vs 650 and power to weight ratio 185 vs 197. I don't consider the differences to be terribly significant. Especially when coupled with the standard towing features of the Discovery.

Looking at the ratio between the rpm at max power, to the rpm at max torque, I get 1:2 vs 1:1.6 (Toyota state torque at 650 @ 1600 rpm to 2600 rpm. I took the middle at 2100 to base my calculations). Using Toyotas figure of 1600, you get a ratio of 1:2.1 (1 to 2 point 1) or using 2600, a figure of 1:1.3. Again the Discovery 3.0L is at 1:2.

Just in closing, again I appreciate all of the comments and advise that has been provided to me through this Forum.

Best wishes to everyone.

Great choice Dahai. You won't be sorry.
One thing that I forgot to mentioned previously (which you kinda touched on) is the gear ratios.
I found that the D43.0 was happy to sit in sixth gear up and down hills with my boat on, whereas the LC200 was always hunting. If the road was dead flat, the LC would stay in sixth, but as soon as there was an incline (let alone a hill) it changed back to 5th.
You must follow up once you have the D4 and remember...........it didn't happen unless you post photos
Cheers, Craig

Craig thank you.

That was one thing I recall reading on a Landcruiser forum, about the cruiser hunting for the most appropriate gear.

We return to OZ mid October, so photoes etc will be shortly after that. Of course all subject to reasonable price discussions with dealer, re new or low kilometre 2nd hand, and test drive.

My wife is not tall, so I think the seat and view would be a plus with the Discovery.

Hey mate,

Sniff around for ex Demo models. They are effectively new and a lot cheaper. They also tend to be specced up, so that they can be used to demonstrate options.

I picked up an SE with only 4000K on it. It was significantly cheaper than a new one and had a few more goodies.

I'm a little unclear on what is standard on the SE as there has been some changes between MYOs but I'm certain the MFD (touchscreen) is not standard.

With the MFD you get Satnav, full phone functionality and iPod functionality, etc. I think this also includes the better sound system. This all ties in with voice command and steeringwheel functions.

The car also came with tinted windows, towbar & ball, mudflaps and top of the range floor mats.

Air suspension is also really good for kids, the elderly or short people.

Hope this helps,

Kev.

Kev thanks you. That is what I will be doing. I will firstly visit the dealer in Brisbane who has been most helpful with responses to my email questions, and give him the first chance to locate a vehicle that would be suitable. I will then visit other dealers if I have to.
Amazingly, some dealers (LandRover, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan ) do not respond to email questions. I think they see my vehicle purchase as either too far in the future, or just someone after information. Either way, if they believe it, then they are right.
However, those that have replied, it has been my intention to contact them when I return, even just to personnaly thank them for their help and explaining that I have decided on an alternate manufacturer, i.e. LandRover.
But I digress, thank you for your comment re looking for a demo model. I do not want Sat./Nav as we will be travelling away from the main roads. I will probably purchase the Hema HN5i (I think it is from memory), and apparently is very good for major roads as well as outback.
Best wishes
Bruce

A back on topic comment...

We just towed our van from Brisbane to Melbourne via the Newell Hwy. We did it over 3 days and it was an easy trip. The D4 just pulls like a train maintaining an easy 100klm/h. The fuel burn was a little higher than expected at between 17-18L/100.

One thing is clear if you are going to tow a big van with a D4 you will need a long range fuel tank. The aux tank allowed us to stretch our range and pick fuel stops where the price wasn't stupid.

Our van is currently undergoing a suspension transplant. The simplicity 3.0T system is being changed to a 3.5T coil control rider system. I am told it will tow much better.