Thread: New D4

Originally Posted by Bigstu

Got me stuffed why anyone would by a Prado when you can have one of these awesome vehicles for pretty much the same money!

I've had six Prado's (work vehicles). During that same period, my "personal" vehicles were -

1. Ford F100 with Chev V8 diesel.
2. Discovery 1 V8 petrol.
3. Discovery 2 tD5 diesel.

- all of which were better vehicles than the Prados I had.

In my last job when I transferred from a remote site to Perth head office, the position came with a new fully serviced company vehicle for work and personal use. When I asked what what the vehicle would be, I was told that the standard vehicle for the position was a Prado GXL.

So I asked if there was any choice available and was told that I could either accept the Prado, or accept a "vehicle assistance" monetary allowance, and supply my own vehicle.

I took the allowance and bought the D4.

Over the three years or so I worked in that position, the "vehicle assistance" allowance virtually paid for the purchase, and what I was able to claim in tax paid for all the accessories plus running costs.

My position was made redundant a while back - had I accepted their new Prado, I would have left the job without the vehicle. Instead, I now have a fully optioned (to my requirements) D4 sitting in the shed, which doesn't owe me a cent. Gotta be happy with that.

And I agree with you - why would anyone waste their own money on a Prado when you can get a Disco for about the same dollars - there is simply no comparison.

Originally Posted by Bigstu

Got me stuffed why anyone would by a Prado when you can have one of these awesome vehicles for pretty much the same money!

Probably three main reasons:
? Toyota has an excellent reputation for consistent quality and reliability (deserved or not, it's the widely accepted perception);
? much better dealer network than LR, and independent mechanics are more likely know their way around a Prado than a D4, especially outside the city;
? I'm betting most people who buy a Prado have never driven a D4. My BIL was sold on a Prado and somehow got the idea of looking at a D4. After a test drive he was sold on the D4, but he's still no LR or 4WD enthusiast. He just thought the D4 was miles ahead compared to a Kakadu.