Hiluxes
 

Hi,

We are a family of 4 who need an every day car, bike shifter and a vehicle for trips to N Africa. We reckon a Hilux double cab probably fits the bill. (I know that there will be proponents of LRs and toyota 80s, but we want a pick up). We are lucky to have the choice between a two year old 2.5 d4d VX double cab and a 1 year old new shape HL3 d4d double cab. Both around 20,000 miles. We reckon on the "old" shape one as spares - if needed - are easy to source all over the world.

I know there's folk out there with Hilux experience. What are your thoughts? "Old"(5th generation) or "New"(6th generation)?

bfgjohno

Hi,

We have a 2001 Nissan Pickup ourselfs for more or less the same reasons. One thing to keep in mind is that that most doublecab pickup's have a shorter loading eh... how do you call that in English: loading bay? than a single or 1,5 cab. (Besides not having having kids) That was the main reason for us to go for the Kingcab on which two normal sized bikes fit in with the rearwheel (just) on car and not on the tailgate. With doublecab you will have to improvise to fit two bikes as they will both have their rearwheel on the open tailgat and that is not what its made for.

Cheers
Peter

In west Africa this vehicle is the most common of the 4x4s now, so you would find good parts and mechanic support there. I think it is a pretty sound choice for what you want. Also you can mount a rocket launching rack in the rear load bed!!!