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I am an ecology field technician, and have spent much time driving to remote places too. I wouldn't get an off-roader without a low range and a manual transmission... it sounds like you may overextend the intended uses of "road geared" SUV's like the MDX. I think most modern SUV's are sufficiently comfortable on highways, though little fun in the twisties.
I think any of the Rodeo/Passport/Pathfinder types would suit your field/comfy cruising needs, if you're bent on an SUV and not an extended cab pick-up (Ranger, Frontier, Tacoma etc). SUV's seem pricier and heavier than their pick-up brethren (and carry a lot less), though they come with nifty doo-dads. I don't think you can go wrong with a truck-based Japanese platform for relative efficiency and reliability in that market.
I'd always buy used with minimal options, because there's no point in wasting money on something you're going to beat the piss out of in the dirt, and you don't want to feel bad about getting blood and dirt all over those Connolly leather seats.
The following vehicles are all one's I've either owned, driven for work, or driven with co-workers in the field. For deep sand, many SUV's will do, and I'm sure you'll have a winch, ramps, and anchor along with proper tires and pump if you're going hardcore...
I have loved Land Rovers in the field. I still have a 1971 Series IIA (4-cyl), and it is unstoppable in the mud and trees in low range, and easy to field-repair. Its aluminum body means no rust to worry about, and keeps the center of gravity low for 40 degree traverses. It's utter crap on the highway though (4-speed no synchro tranny, no overdrive), burns leaded gas, and gets 13 mpg.
I've also taken a Discovery to task (mid 90's) in the Montana deserts, and it performed admirably in all aspects except fuel economy (14 mpg, tiny tank) and interior space. Plenty comfy, good towing, low range, locking diffs, and amazing off road (till you run out of gas very, very, far from anywhere). When I was in Africa, well-used Land Cruisers, Land Rovers (most models, but no Freelanders as they were brand new), and Isuzus seemed to be the choice for flat/sandy conditions in both SUV and pick-up configurations. Most were diesels, which I don't think are available here...
Currently I work from a late 80's 4WD 2 door GMC Jimmy. It is an automatic with a low range, and is awful on road and off (poor traction and response, and the transfer case likes to slip out of range at inopportune moments). It's had a tough life, but just feels like a POS compared to all the other trucks. And GM has some infuriatingly stupid servicing inconveniences (how many torx drivers do you need to change a light bulb?).
I've never driven a jeep, but my associates say they fall apart, and are uncomfortable to boot. I'd test drive them anyway...
You can also get almost anything converted to 4WD... Quigley is one aftermarket company. Maybe they'll do 9-5 wagons...
Best,
Lutfisk
posted by 132.236.139...
, Tue, 18 Feb 2003 16:22:16
, Tue, 18 Feb 2003 14:07:48
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