Territory V's Prado

[Sapphire]

Hi Guys,

My wife & I are wanting to purchase a new car in the coming months, Im after some "constructive comments" that some of you may be able to provide regarding the two vehicles that we have short listed. Now before we go too far I know that these two vehicles are designed for different purposes eg AWD & 4WD. But I think consideration needs to be given to some aspects.

We anticpate using the vehicle to put our boat into lakes/rivers etc (minimum AWD requried), couple of snow trip every year and the occasional Fraser Island type trip.

But here is our problem:

1) The cost of a Territory Ghia equals roughly the cost of a GXL Prado.

2) Territoy has a few more creature comforts eg, Leather, reverse parking sensors and more car like in handling.

3) Prado drives similar but you still feel as though you are driving a large car on a truck chassis. The Prado but will go much further off road due to greater height clearance, low range gearbox etc.

4) Prado from what I have read and heard from owners uses less fuel than Territory, due to new 5 speed auto in Prado versus 4 speed auto in Territory.

5) Both vehciles weigh roughly the same.

These are both fantastic vehicles and we have had a great deal of trouble deciding between them. As much I would hate not to see a Ford badge in my garage we are slightly leaning towards the Prado at this stage.

Any thoughts guys?

[b2tf]

Yes Chris i have a thought - if you buy a 4WD and put a bullbar on it i will kill you.

What about the clearance in the garage? Didnt you say Terry was too high to fit? If so, how is a Prado going to fit?

I had a drive of a Prado which was the last model before the current one and it was ok, but as youve said, it feels like youre driving a bigger car. You really notice it at low speed and in parking lots etc, when we had a Terry for a few days its just like driving a slightly higher Falcon, a lot better at low speed and just more driver friendly IMHO.
I can see where you're coming from pricewise, a Ghia is a pricey bit of gear, but it's probably more suited to what you want to do (at a guess anyway). I like that the Terry is more or less a Fairmont Ghia on the inside (if you go for the Ghia anyway).The offroad capability of it is of course less than what the Prado has, but it's still enough to put a boat in or whatever.

Perhaps its an idea to get a Terry and a Prado back to back, drive them on the same road, do your own kind of comparison like Wheels Mag does. Let me know if you need any help with arranging a Terry again, if you want to do it that is.

Btw, a new auto is tipped to be in the Terry by the end of the year.

[Sapphire]

I was able to get the garage doors raised by 2 inches which will enable to fit either car.

And by the way I think a nice shiny bullbar would get lots of use in the carpark !!!!!....lol :hump:

[galaxy xr8]

If I were choosing between the two it would be the Prado, with the factory polished bar, beat's the Terri for off road work, relability and the fact it come's with a manual option and for long trip's a 180litr tank and yes it is better on fuel than the Terri, the only thing the Terri has over the Prado is the fact it drive's better on the open road.

[new2ford]

.. the only thing the Terri has over the Prado is the fact it drive's better on the open road.
And there's the rub - that is where most of us spend our driving time and that's where the unbeatable enjoyment of the Territory comes to the fore. Although the two vehicles represent a competitive choice for many buyers, the Territory is a car whereas the Prado is a light truck. This is reflected in a number of on-road performance aspects with safety (whether it is prone to losing traction and/or rolling over) being a high priority with me. In this the Territory is the only choice.

The Territory also goes further than you think off the bitumen. Excellent performer on dirt roads and I use my RWD on boat ramps with the usual cautions but no hassles. If on the other hand you're going to go rock-hopping (i.e. completely off road) then naturally the Prado has to be the choice.

Basically though it is not a comparison between two identical vehicle types. The Kluger is the only closely comparable vehicle to the Territory. The reason a lot of people are switching from Prados (or Pajeros) to Territorys is that don't want the off road capability and the cost of buying and running that capability. If you have Prado that you don't use off road, your initial purchase price might be the same as the Ghia but you will pay more to keep the Prado going in the long term. From all accounts on these forums the Territory is great on boat ramps, in the snow and on Fraser Island - so you have something to think about in terms of how much you really need 4WD. An AWD Territory could be a good compromise. Hope this helps.

[gz1]

Hi Guys,

We anticpate using the vehicle to put our boat into lakes/rivers etc (minimum AWD requried), couple of snow trip every year and the occasional Fraser Island type trip.

But here is our problem:

1) The cost of a Territory Ghia equals roughly the cost of a GXL Prado.

2) Territoy has a few more creature comforts eg, Leather, reverse parking sensors and more car like in handling.

3) Prado drives similar but you still feel as though you are driving a large car on a truck chassis. The Prado but will go much further off road due to greater height clearance, low range gearbox etc.

4) Prado from what I have read and heard from owners uses less fuel than Territory, due to new 5 speed auto in Prado versus 4 speed auto in Territory.

5) Both vehciles weigh roughly the same.

These are both fantastic vehicles and we have had a great deal of trouble deciding between them. As much I would hate not to see a Ford badge in my garage we are slightly leaning towards the Prado at this stage.

Any thoughts guys?
Funny you should say the above. I have basically the same requirements as you describe, chose the terri AWD Ghia and so far am very very happy with my decision.
The deciding factors for me were thus:
1. Ride/handling/parking. As the majority of the time spent in the car is in the city, usually in peak hour traffic, driving a prado in those conditions would literaly send me insane. Without meaning to detract anything from the Prado, if you haven't driven one in traffic try it. Ther is no escaping the fact that you are driving a truck, not a car.
2. safety. I don't think anyone can argue the terri is a safer car, with things like the DSC, side airbags etc, but also the Primary safety that comes from a lower ride clearance and hence improves handling and less chance of rollover. The added clearance of the prado would help if you take it off road, but so far I've had no issues and at least from my part I would much rather have less ground clearance and better handling than more clearance and worse handling. If you intend to go sereously off road, that equation may change.
3. Practicality. I find the interior of the terri much more practical than the prado, especially the third row seats.
As far as towing a boat down slippery boat ramps, I have had no problem at all with the terri. Off road drivability is great, see my previous post at http://fordforums.com.au/showthread.php?t=6856 for a writup on how it went. Snow trips remain to be seen, will definetly be testing that on the snow season though.
So as a summary, the cars I was considering were as follows:
1. Adventra (ok I admit i WAS a holden fan and never thought I's own a ford)
2. kluger
3. prado
4. subaru
5. teritory.

After lots of test drives, renting cars for weekends, talking to owners etc, my order of preference went thus:
1. teritory
2. Adventra (although not the V8, would need to wait for the V6)
3. kluger
4 prado
usuitable. subaru. (I found it grosly underpowered and far the smallest room of the lot with no possibility of adding extra seats)

cars like the lexus, X5, volvo etc were way outside my price range so I did not waste any time evaluating them.

[Ouzo]

I had a very similar choice to make. Liked both the Prado and the Territory and made a decision after consecutive 1 hour test drives of each. The Terri felt markedly better and more comfortable on road when you drove them back to back and it won.

If I was back living in Queensland, there is no doubt I would do a lot more off road trips particularly up the beach. Much as I love the Terri - I think my decison would have been for a Prado. But in Tassie, I'll only do pretend off roading and I have no doubt I made the right decision. Might be doing the Terri's off road ability an injustice but I think if I was doing the Double Island or Fraser trip quite regulallry, I'd want the proven package of a Prado.

My final five in order went:

1. Territory (everything felt right about it except the Ford badge)
2. Prado (cheap interior and a lot less fruit than a Ghia and it did feel truck like)
3. Kluger (cramped rear seat, fugly and weird interior features)
4. Adventura (too thirsty and didn't measure up in any respect to the Terri - would be interested in driving the V6 though)
5. Subaru Outback (too small)

Funnily enough - none of us seem to have looked seriously at a Pajero. I've read the reviews which are not too complimentary but I've often wondered why I didn't at least test drive it. It might actually be a compromise between the Terri and the Prado.

[b2tf]

4. Adventura (too thirsty and didn't measure up in any respect to the Terri - would be interested in driving the V6 though)

There's a comparo between V6 Adventra and Territory in the latest Wheels Mag.

[The Taipan]

Hi Guys,

My wife & I are wanting to purchase a new car in the coming months, Im after some "constructive comments" that some of you may be able to provide regarding the two vehicles that we have short listed. Now before we go too far I know that these two vehicles are designed for different purposes eg AWD & 4WD. But I think consideration needs to be given to some aspects.

We anticpate using the vehicle to put our boat into lakes/rivers etc (minimum AWD requried), couple of snow trip every year and the occasional Fraser Island type trip.

But here is our problem:

1) The cost of a Territory Ghia equals roughly the cost of a GXL Prado.

2) Territoy has a few more creature comforts eg, Leather, reverse parking sensors and more car like in handling.

3) Prado drives similar but you still feel as though you are driving a large car on a truck chassis. The Prado but will go much further off road due to greater height clearance, low range gearbox etc.

4) Prado from what I have read and heard from owners uses less fuel than Territory, due to new 5 speed auto in Prado versus 4 speed auto in Territory.

5) Both vehciles weigh roughly the same.

These are both fantastic vehicles and we have had a great deal of trouble deciding between them. As much I would hate not to see a Ford badge in my garage we are slightly leaning towards the Prado at this stage.

Any thoughts guys?

I looked at these two vehicles but at the lower end a $40K budget...
For us it was a RWD Territory TX, or a AWD Territory, or Klugger vs Prado.

Primary concern was childseat accommodation for our newly born twins, safety, and cost. We looked at many, many vans and 4wd's for a min 7 seats, and Prado was a finalist, but not good enough on-road, and iirc the prado, like the Klugger did not offer centre rear shoulder belts. This is a MAJOR oversight in my opinion. Other factors like rear boot space and operation of the third row in the Prado was not satisfactory. To pay so much for a vehicle so flawed, it was not really an option in the end. Finally it was between the 2wd and the AWD Territory. The difference in price meant room for a few options and if I really wanted to go off road I could buy a cheap Hilux ute and get really dirty and not care at all. Coincidently I have taken the 2WD territory off-road a couple of times, and while I am very selective in the environments I would travel, it handles very well on the local State Forest tracks.

With driving in snow in mind, I would suggest the AWD Territory has a significant handling advantage over the 2WD and Prado, so if you do have interest in doing a lot of snow driving (or sand for that matter) AWD might be preferable if you can afford it.

It might also be worth checking out the TX and ?TS models of the Territory, as the dash presentation is just that bit more logical and ergoniomically correct. The Ghia dash has some weird things like a clock on the ceiling, and HVAC controls which aren't as logical as the base models. Would love to have the Climate Control, but that is not that important to me. Might save you some important moolah...

Good luck with your purchase, if you are in Bris drop me a line and I'll put you in touch with a Ford dealer who will give you some special treatment if you'd appreciate that... If you choose the 'Brand - T' - still let us know how you go, I think they are a good package and I'm sure that either way you would not be dissapointed.

Simon.

[grahill]

I went on these factors in preferencial order (and I chose the Territory):

SAFETY (Territory is safer vehicle now with Side curtain airbags, etc,. etc,.)
PARTS and SERVICE (The Australian made is by far cheaper than an import)
PERFORMANCE (It is supurb)
FEATURES and OPTIONAL EXTRAS (It has lots to offer)
LOOKS (It is a great vehicle and catches many peoples eyes)

Don't get a Kluger! See this thread:

http://www.fordforums.com.au/showthread.php?t=8687

Although the Prado and Kluger were my only other competitors, the Territory won hands down for me!

.

[Sapphire]

Great, thanks for the varied responses good to get some different feedback. If there was such a thing as a Prado Forum it would be interesting to get there perspective.

There is no doubt in my mind that the territory handles like a car, but is pretty much also restricted due to clearance of a 2wd drive car. The AWD makes it able to handle slippery conditions eg dirt shallow sand & shallow snow etc.

To clarify my boat issue, I need a vehicle that can put a boat in a lake/dam that has no boat ramp (due to the drought most boat ramps at dams/lakes around here finish about 10-20 metres away from the water edge) therefore is needs to be able launch a boat on rocks or sand. Any experiences with this guys in Terri's?

One further question, wouldnt the running costs be roughly the same as they both have 17" tyres, both are 6 cyclinder, weigh about the same, both have a extra differential to service and the fact that one uses more fuel than the other, to my thinking means that they are about the same cost to run.

Anybody used their Terri to launch a boat on sand & rocks?? And what was your experiences?

[new2ford]

To clarify my boat issue, I need a vehicle that can put a boat in a lake/dam that has no boat ramp (due to the drought most boat ramps at dams/lakes around here finish about 10-20 metres away from the water edge) therefore is needs to be able launch a boat on rocks or sand. Any experiences with this guys in Terri's?

One further question, wouldnt the running costs be roughly the same as they both have 17" tyres, both are 6 cyclinder, weigh about the same, both have a extra differential to service and the fact that one uses more fuel than the other, to my thinking means that they are about the same cost to run.

Anybody used their Terri to launch a boat on sand & rocks?? And what was your experiences?

Re launching a boat in your circumstances Sapphire you need some feedback from the AWD owners. With 2WD and where I operate I have the luxury of clean concrete ramps.

Re running costs I assume you're comparing the AWD. My 2WD would be like a Falcon underneath and pretty basic. I know from owning 4WDs all that extra stuff underneath costs more to service. The general wisdom on long-term maintenance is that the locally produced car has cheaper parts than the imports.

On driving costs, Wheels stated that the Territory's fuel consumption was about 10 percent better than the Pajero's so maybe that might give some indication vs a 4WD.


Funnily enough - none of us seem to have looked seriously at a Pajero. I've read the reviews which are not too complimentary but I've often wondered why I didn't at least test drive it. It might actually be a compromise between the Terri and the Prado.

Wheels was not very complimentary of the Pajero in its comparison last year. Apart from those performance issues and a harsh ride I find the interior cramped and the claims made for it a little dishonest - the 2nd row bench really only holds 2 adults and a child. Also I don't know if the current model still has those inefficient 3rd row seats that take up the luggage space when folded.

[philby]

Hi Saphire - I currently own a AWD TS, and have done some basic offroad stuff just to see where the Terri sits.

Basically, the car will have no problem pulling the boat through the type of terain your talking about. The main concern however will be ground clearance, the Terri is not that high!!! - which is why it drives better on the road.

So really check out the terain you want to use, if you need the extra ground clearance then it's a no Brainer, go the Pardo. If not and you don't want to get into serious offroad stuff then it's the Terri.

Personally I perfer the Terri, just did a 1000K trip in a day from the gold coast to Sydney, car travelled like a gem fuel was 12.6Lt/100K. And I was not stressed when I got home after 10Hours driving (with a 2 & 3 year old) and yes they travelled fine to!!!

But if you really need that 4WD capability then the Pajero is the one to go 4.

[gz1]

Funnily enough - none of us seem to have looked seriously at a Pajero. I've read the reviews which are not too complimentary but I've often wondered why I didn't at least test drive it. It might actually be a compromise between the Terri and the Prado.

Iv'e had the misfortune of being a passanger in a Pahero once. That took away any inspirations at a test drive :puke:

[Ubdevoid]

Hi Guys,

My wife & I are wanting to purchase a new car in the coming months, Im after some "constructive comments" that some of you may be able to provide regarding the two vehicles that we have short listed. Now before we go too far I know that these two vehicles are designed for different purposes eg AWD & 4WD. But I think consideration needs to be given to some aspects.

We anticpate using the vehicle to put our boat into lakes/rivers etc (minimum AWD requried), couple of snow trip every year and the occasional Fraser Island type trip.

But here is our problem:

1) The cost of a Territory Ghia equals roughly the cost of a GXL Prado.


2) Territoy has a few more creature comforts eg, Leather, reverse parking sensors and more car like in handling.


3) Prado drives similar but you still feel as though you are driving a large car on a truck chassis. The Prado but will go much further off road due to greater height clearance, low range gearbox etc.



4) Prado from what I have read and heard from owners uses less fuel than Territory, due to new 5 speed auto in Prado versus 4 speed auto in Territory.



5) Both vehciles weigh roughly the same.



These are both fantastic vehicles and we have had a great deal of trouble deciding between them. As much I would hate not to see a Ford badge in my garage we are slightly leaning towards the Prado at this stage.

Any thoughts guys?

You can get a GXL auto on the road for $52,000 quiet easy these days

Parking sensors are a $450 option on the Prado for the 4 head ones . I should know as I bought them :)

Prado weighs more and it permanent 4wd . Motor is far more efficient as the Territory is extremeyl thirsty

Go the Prado !

I have loved mine from day one. My garage has an 04 GXL and an 03 XR6t so I am very chuffed at the moment.

Rule of thumb for myself. When you are talking 4wd's it is best to get one from the guys who have been doing it for years and have got the whole thing totally sorted. Prado is a sales leader all over the planet. Ford is locally built and it Ford's first 4wd in this country. Prado looks better , will last longer and will have better resale at the other end . Next door neighbour was tossing up the same scenario in January and the Ford delaership leant him a Territory for the weekend with 4000km's on it. He came over that Sunday and told me he was going to but a Prado as he could not believe the noises this thing had at 4,000km and the cheapness of the build .

GET A PRADO AND SLEEP WELL AT NIGHT !!!.. ESPECIALLY IF YOU GO WHERE I GO AND THERE IS NOBODY TO HELP YOU IF THE S*** HITS THE FAN !!

[Ubdevoid]

If I were choosing between the two it would be the Prado, with the factory polished bar, beat's the Terri for off road work, relability and the fact it come's with a manual option and for long trip's a 180litr tank and yes it is better on fuel than the Terri, the only thing the Terri has over the Prado is the fact it drive's better on the open road.


true !

[Ubdevoid]

And there's the rub - that is where most of us spend our driving time and that's where the unbeatable enjoyment of the Territory
Not so sure it is unbeatable enjoyment , it's only a Territory mate LOL

comes to the fore. Although the two vehicles represent a competitive choice for many buyers, the Territory is a car whereas the Prado is a light truck.


Light truck ??? No a light truck is a Dyno

This is reflected in a number of on-road performance aspects with safety (whether it is prone to losing traction and/or rolling over) being a high priority with me. In this the Territory is the only choice.

You are not aware that the Prado Grande has more features than any Territory obviously . Prada has traction control in reverse , does territory ?Does it have Down hill assist control ? Height adjustable suspension ? Grande has vehicle swerve control and 8 air bags as well....... You need to read more on other vehicles before you make these ridiculous claims

The Territory also goes further than you think off the bitumen. Excellent performer on dirt roads and I use my RWD on boat ramps with the usual cautions but no hassles.

Not according to every review I have read nor from people who own them

If on the other hand you're going to go rock-hopping (i.e. completely off road) then naturally the Prado has to be the choice.

Basically though it is not a comparison between two identical vehicle types.

And this is why he is asking. He knows that and we know that

The Kluger is the only closely comparable vehicle to the Territory. The reason a lot of people are switching from Prados (or Pajeros) to Territorys is that don't want the off road capability and the cost of buying and running that capability.

Territory uses more fuel than both of them so I geuess it is that people are buying the 2wd ;)

If you have Prado that you don't use off road, your initial purchase price might be the same as the Ghia but you will pay more to keep the Prado going in the long term.

How so ?? It is a Toyota so resale is much better therefore cost of ownership is less

From all accounts on these forums the Territory is great on boat ramps, in the snow and on Fraser Island - so you have something to think about in terms of how much you really need 4WD. An AWD Territory could be a good compromise. Hope this helps.

[b]You need to go and visit http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/Default.asp forums . Many bad stories of Territory on Fraser etc. They advise not to touch one for off road.

Hope this helps.

[Ubdevoid]

The prado is a piece of crap.If you change your battery you must reprogramm your power windows from the drivers side in a special sequence or they wont work. The dashes and trim scratch easily.The radios drop in their brackets occassionally and squeek after a couple of months.I used to love toyota landcruisers..but recently I am not so sure. I think that they are overrated.


who told you that ?

You raise and lower each window . Nothing hard about that !. Piece of crap hey ? LOL !!!!

How many Territorys are sold around the world than fool ?

Would not last a second on the world stage !!

[Ubdevoid]

Great, thanks for the varied responses good to get some different feedback. If there was such a thing as a Prado Forum it would be interesting to get there perspective.


go here http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/Default.asp and get opinions. Not a bunch of 15 year olds there ;)

[Sapphire]

Thanks for your comments Ubdevoid, its good to get a Prado owner perspective as well as Terri owners perspective. I will check out the link, thanks mate.

[Ubdevoid]

Thanks for your comments Ubdevoid, its good to get a Prado owner perspective as well as Terri owners perspective. I will check out the link, thanks mate.


Don't get me wrong either. I do think the Territory is a good vehicle but I would have felt much better if it had a Toyota badge on it ... Now that would be a good car. A Toyota built Territory ;)

[new2ford]

Welcome aboard Ubdevoid - great to have some truck drivers on the forum. I'm sure there is an F-series thread somewhere. Now where is the centre of gravity on that Grande?

I've put a rave review from a Toyota owner on the "Glad I didn't choose that Kluger" thread for you. And how are Prado sales going in Australia lately?

[Ouzo]

Prado looks better
You just lost all credibility!

[Ouzo]

[b]You need to go and visit http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/Default.asp forums . Many bad stories of Territory on Fraser etc. They advise not to touch one for off road.

My search skills are obviously very poor as I couldn't find one of these "bad" stories.

[udbevoid]

Welcome aboard Ubdevoid - great to have some truck drivers on the forum. I'm sure there is an F-series thread somewhere. Now where is the centre of gravity on that Grande?

I've put a rave review from a Toyota owner on the "Glad I didn't choose that Kluger" thread for you. And how are Prado sales going in Australia lately?


Prado sales are great . It is number one in it's category as always and Toyota are number 1 so all is good . Where are Ford ??? LOL !!!

How are the AWD Terri sales going ? LOL !!.. THe whole industry knows that 70% of all sold are 2wd only so do you consider Ford to be cheating when they quote their figures alongside real AWD's like the Subaru Outback and Kluger ? .. No of course you don;t . You are a Ford man !! LOL !!

Essentially 70% of all Terri's sold are a jacked up FAlcon wagon for $500 more !!. I would not buy the wagon either :)> But are they buying an SUV when they buy 2wd ??? Hmm... Dont think so Terri !!! LOL !!

The day Ford make a car the quality of the Prado is a day we will never see ...

[udbevoid]

You just lost all credibility!


The worldwide market is against you.

[udbevoid]

My search skills are obviously very poor as I couldn't find one of these "bad" stories.


Damn .... That is THE biggest off road vehicle forum in the country and there is no mention of the Territory ?? LOL !!!

Now that tells you something. Why not join the forum and put the question to the members there ?? LOL !!

That will be a great laugh !

[MR_SIDO]

are you having an identity crisis ubdevoid or is it......udbevoid or ubdevoib?
I would say ubdevoid of a brain.....nuff said.

[udbevoid]

are you having an identity crisis ubdevoid or is it......udbevoid or ubdevoib?
I would say ubdevoid of a brain.....nuff said.


thanks for your contribution.

You have elevated the discussion to a great height :weirdo:

[MR_SIDO]

mate this thread went to the S*$theap when you replied to it. Sapphire asked for constructive comments about both vehicles, not your mindless BS.

[udbevoid]

mate this thread went to the S*$theap when you replied to it. Sapphire asked for constructive comments about both vehicles, not your mindless BS.


and he thanked me for mine . You don't see your advice as BS as you look through Ford eyes mate. But anyone saying the Territory is a better built more capable vehicle than a Prado is kidding themselves. Fair enough it is good to be proud of something that us Aussies have banged together but Ford are miles away from anything near Toyota quality ...... Damn they are even licensing Toyotas hybrid technology for the Ford Escape in the States.

Like it or not.

Toyota are the benchmark for quality and are showing the rest of them the way forward.

Do yourself a favour a travel outside this country and then come back with a real world perspective. Till then be satisfied with mediocrity and naievety.

[Ouzo]

Damn .... That is THE biggest off road vehicle forum in the country and there is no mention of the Territory ?? LOL !!!
Actually, I found quite a few threads on Territories but none of them were critical. Quite the contrary - they were quite balanced and supportive but pointing out the bleeding obvious that Territory is primarily a road vehicle with a reasonable degree of off road capability. So where are the "many bad stories"?

By the way how's the front tyre wear on your Prado? My mate who has one tells me there's a bit of a problem in that area.

[new2ford]

Prado sales are great . It is number one in it's category as always ...

Huh? - statistics must be lying. See: http://www.fordforums.com.au/vbportal/modules.php?name=Content&file=viewarticle&id=198 and
http://www.automotivepersonnel.com.au/news/

You are a Ford man !!
Now that's an insult!

The day Ford make a car the quality of the Prado is a day we will never see ...
Thank goodness.

Back to the topic, I thought we were here to help poor Mr Sapphire. I never said anything against the Prado as an off-roader (except that, just to get you going, Land Rover's much better). Just that a lot of 4WD people have a conceptual problem about the Territory. It is basically a car - we bought it because we wanted a car, not a 4WD. Is that OK? Sorry to trouble you.

P.S. Please don't saying anything too rash and get yourself banned off the forum like the other Toyota stirrer - we enjoy comedy here. I'm starting to understand why Toyota marketing is directed towards camels that jump up and down.

[udbevoid]

Actually, I found quite a few threads on Territories but none of them were critical. Quite the contrary - they were quite balanced and supportive but pointing out the bleeding obvious that Territory is primarily a road vehicle with a reasonable degree of off road capability. So where are the "many bad stories"?

By the way how's the front tyre wear on your Prado? My mate who has one tells me there's a bit of a problem in that area.


I think you mean the Northern Territory LOL !!

Please link me to any of these threads you found .

Waiting !!!

[Ouzo]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ouzo
You just lost all credibility!

The worldwide market is against you.

Just so I've got this right - Vehicle A is sold globally while vehicle B is sold only in Australia and New Zealand (and soon in South Africa). Vehicle B outsells vehicle A in the only markets in which they compete while Vehicle A outsells Vehicle B globally. Therefore Vehicle A looks better.

Enough said.

[udbevoid]

Huh? - statistics must be lying. See: http://www.fordforums.com.au/vbportal/modules.php?name=Content&file=viewarticle&id=198 and
http://www.automotivepersonnel.com.au/news/


Now that's an insult!


Thank goodness.

Back to the topic, I thought we were here to help poor Mr Sapphire. I never said anything against the Prado as an off-roader (except that, just to get you going, Land Rover's much better). Just that a lot of 4WD people have a conceptual problem about the Territory. It is basically a car - we bought it because we wanted a car, not a 4WD. Is that OK? Sorry to trouble you.

P.S. Please don't saying anything too rash and get yourself banned off the forum like the other Toyota stirrer - we enjoy comedy here. I'm starting to understand why Toyota marketing is directed towards camels that jump up and down.


A conceptual problem :lol:

The concept of you thinking it will be good off the road would certainly cause a problem.

[udbevoid]

Just so I've got this right - Vehicle A is sold globally while vehicle B is sold only in Australia and New Zealand (and soon in South Africa). Vehicle B outsells vehicle A in the only markets in which they compete while Vehicle A outsells Vehicle B globally. Therefore Vehicle A looks better.

Enough said.


And as I have asked many times . How many are AWD ?? :doh:

Can't you see the stupidity of claiming SUV sales victory on the back of 2wd sales ?? LOL !!

Prado is not in the same category . That would be the Exploder . Another brilliant Ford product LOL !!

[Ouzo]

Please link me to any of these threads you found .

Waiting !!!

I think he who made the first claim should post the first of the many links.

But here's one - On Thursday, July 08, 2004 at 20:25
Jeff (Beddo) posted about FORD TERRITORY offroad - anyone driven one - (PostID: 14496) http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/View.asp?ForumQID=14496&Keywords=ford%25territory&Page=%2FForum%2FDefault%2Easp%3FDisplaySet%3DBoth%26Search%3D1%26Keywords%3Dford%2525territory%26Search%5FTopic%3Don%26Search%5FBody%3Don%26Search%5FName%3D%26PN%3D1

[Ouzo]

Can't you see the stupidity of claiming SUV sales victory on the back of 2wd sales ?? LOL !!
I wasn't claiming SUV sales victory - just pointing out your silly logic . Beauty is in the eye of the beholder but Prado a better looking vehicle than Territory - seriously now!

[MR_SIDO]

SUV = Sports Utility Vehicle

Where in those words does it say that a SUV has to be AWD or 4WD? People buy Territory for many reasons, but most of the people I talk to trade in their prado's (or any other Large vehicle) because they dont want a large vehicle. They want something comfortable, something that will tow, something to seat 7 people comfortably and something reasonable on Fuel. This is all your average Soccer mum wants and believe me they are heading that way in droves. You dont need to get upset at the fact that Ford are outselling Toyota in the SUV market in Australia, just accept it and move on.

[udbevoid]

Toyota have even offered to go easy on Ford in America by increasing prices to let them recover their stocks from just above "junk" classification.

Toyota should make carmakers shape up in U.S.

The Herald-Tribune's "Today's Marketplace" column on Tuesday (in a report coming out of Tokyo) says that Hiroshi Okuda, chairman of Toyota Motor Corp., is worried that U.S. automakers' problems could cause a backlash for Toyota and other foreign carmakers. He suggested that the Japanese carmaker may consider raising the prices of the cars it sells in the United States to help support its ailing U.S. peers. This news came because of weak earnings reported by General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co.

Does this sound logical or is there some coercion behind the scenes? Is this an attempt by U.S. carmakers to force the sale of their gas-guzzlers by suggesting that something will happen to foreign imports?

It would seem to me that the most beneficial happenstance for the consumer would be for Toyota to maintain its prices, continue making economical automobiles that are affordable and dependable for the average-income buyer and lay the responsibility for improving the overall quality of transportation in the hands and factories of American automobile producers.

Ms. Lee Richardson

Venice

http://www.heraldtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050501/OPINION/505010950/1029

[udbevoid]

SUV = Sports Utility Vehicle

Where in those words does it say that a SUV has to be AWD or 4WD? People buy Territory for many reasons, but most of the people I talk to trade in their prado's (or any other Large vehicle) because they dont want a large vehicle. They want something comfortable, something that will tow, something to seat 7 people comfortably and something reasonable on Fuel. This is all your average Soccer mum wants and believe me they are heading that way in droves. You dont need to get upset at the fact that Ford are outselling Toyota in the SUV market in Australia, just accept it and move on.


SUV is AWD at minimum . Read and learn more about cars mate.

Territory looks boring. Sorry it does ! ... Interior is shocking , cheap bottle holder plastic thingies , cheap plastic and cheap feel on the road. RATTLE RATTLE !!

In contrast look at Prado , everything fits , no panel gaps different spacingall around top of bonnet like Terri . Open up a door on the Terri and look at the side of it . Are those screws screwed into bare metal by any chance ??? LOL !!!! Check any toyota now.. Plastic sleeve for all of them .. Nothing is screwed metal on metal in a Toyota but that is how Ford keep the price down.

I will never talk you guys out of your love affair with this vehicle . Some people are happy to settle for less.

Oh .. Sales volume does not equal quality either.......... Work out 70% of Terris sales and you have a whole heap of people in a vehicle which could not get up a steep drive way let alone go off road .

TERRI-BLE !!

[udbevoid]

I think he who made the first claim should post the first of the many links.

But here's one - On Thursday, July 08, 2004 at 20:25
Jeff (Beddo) posted about FORD TERRITORY offroad - anyone driven one - (PostID: 14496) http://www.exploroz.com/Forum/View.asp?ForumQID=14496&Keywords=ford%25territory&Page=%2FForum%2FDefault%2Easp%3FDisplaySet%3DBoth%26Search%3D1%26Keywords%3Dford%2525territory%26Search%5FTopic%3Don%26Search%5FBody%3Don%26Search%5FName%3D%26PN%3D1


Great thanks for that ,,

Has some real accurate comments in there.



Hi Jeff,
They do stack up as an good package, but I must admit that over a large number of new cars purchased, I have found local units have more problems and quality issues.

So I'm sticking with fully imported Japenese products for now. Ive given local product repeatedly a fair go,currently have XR6, EL GT Falcon, EL wagon,(all lots problems)Prado and Mazda.
Toyota, Mazda Nissan products, just are less problems repeatedly.

We are about to trade Mazda and I'm resisting looking at TERRITORY

Regards
Joe ..

It doesn't even have proper recovery points if you do get stuck!

Will never beat Patrol, Prado etc off road.If you want to get away from dirt roads into the rough stuff, look elsewhere.

Their advertising is poor, making it seem as if it will do more than it can.

( especially as they are all 2wd LOL !!!!! )



Exactly as I have been saying.

Thanks for that


:yelrotflm

[new2ford]

The concept of you thinking it will be good off the road would certainly cause a problem.

Like Ouzo's driving on the beach, me driving my Territory on firetrails, steep dirt driveways and paddocks around Sydney must be a figment of my imagination. And that's only in 2WD. But obviously as an ex 4WD'er I would not go rock-hopping in it and I never said this about it.

Talk about fordless revisited - we shouldn't be rising to the bait. You have a viewpoint that you're going to stick to regardless of all the properly-sourced facts people are throwing back at you on this forum. At least I came from a background of being prejudiced against Fords but know a great vehicle when I see it - the Prado is in the dark ages by comparison, a Tonka truck from a previous generation. As for Toyota, Wheels once said that just because you're the biggest doesn't mean you're the best. That about sums it up - fairly reliable but uninspiring, even boring. For people who just want to get from A to B and don't want any enjoyment out of driving.

[udbevoid]

Like Ouzo's driving on the beach, me driving my Territory on firetrails, steep dirt driveways and paddocks around Sydney must be a figment of my imagination. And that's only in 2WD. But obviously as an ex 4WD'er I would not go rock-hopping in it and I never said this about it.

Talk about fordless revisited - we shouldn't be rising to the bait. You have a viewpoint that you're going to stick to regardless of all the properly-sourced facts people are throwing back at you on this forum. At least I came from a background of being prejudiced against Fords but know a great vehicle when I see it - the Prado is in the dark ages by comparison, a Tonka truck from a previous generation. As for Toyota, Wheels once said that just because you're the biggest doesn't mean you're the best. That about sums it up - fairly reliable but uninspiring, even boring. For people who just want to get from A to B and don't want any enjoyment out of driving.


At least Ouzo knows a little about vehicles. You on the other hand are a young twit dribbling nonsense.

No offense .. I got a laugh !

[new2ford]

Thanks for the compliment about my age. So I'm lying? Come with me one day and I'll show you where the Territory goes.

Hey c'mon guys I bet you're all doing this in work time. Get back to work all of you. Ignore the serial stirrer. Toyota fans are just bad losers.

[udbevoid]

Thanks for the compliment about my age. So I'm lying? Come with me one day and I'll show you where the Territory goes.

Hey c'mon guys I bet you're all doing this in work time. Get back to work all of you. Ignore the serial stirrer. Toyota fans are just bad losers.

Losers ?

Check the vehicle sales tally then come back
:doh:

Toyota again #1 !!!

Oh ..

Follow Formula 1 at all ? ;)

All that in 4 years !!!

[Sapphire]

Judging by the comments it appears I have created a bit of a storm in a tea cup!!! Anyway I appreciate everyones point of view.

Anyway back on topic, with regards to running costs would there be there much difference between AWD Terri & Prado 4wd. They both have a AWD/4wd system to maintain at every service, then there is the fuel consumption issue and they both have similar weights & tyre sizes??.

As for spare parts prices I have used Toyota "extra care" warranty before when i bought my falcon and it was bloody fantastic. It is a "real" extention of the manufacturers warranty not a after market one the only cover 20% of the car. Therefore relative cost of parts etc would not really be great until probably around 5 years of ownership (not taking into account general servicing costs), unless i break or damage something etc. I'm sure Ford would have something similar in their warranty.

[Ubdevoib]

Judging by the comments it appears I have created a bit of a storm in a tea cup!!! Anyway I appreciate everyones point of view.

Anyway back on topic, with regards to running costs would there be there much difference between AWD Terri & Prado 4wd. They both have a AWD/4wd system to maintain at every service

Nothing to maintaining those mate, not in the Toyota anyway.. Oh it has low range as well ;).

, then there is the fuel consumption issue and they both have similar weights & tyre sizes??.

Prado tyres are much bigger

As for spare parts prices I have used Toyota "extra care" warranty before when i bought my falcon and it was bloody fantastic. It is a "real" extention of the manufacturers warranty not a after market one the only cover 20% of the car. Therefore relative cost of parts etc would not really be great until probably around 5 years of ownership (not taking into account general servicing costs), unless i break or damage something etc. I'm sure Ford would have something similar in their warranty

Toyota warranty is typically Toyota.

QUALITY !!

.

QUALITY !!

[new2ford]

Judging by the comments it appears I have created a bit of a storm in a tea cup!!! Anyway I appreciate everyones point of view.

You haven't created a storm Sapphire. You seemed to be getting good considered advice on the Territory side of things and you needed a source of good advice on the Prado. From the tone of our new contributor, it doesn't look as though you will get intelligent advice from a Prado owner (if he is such) so perhaps its worth researching through Wheels, the NRMA and other road tests and reviews to ferret out the information. There is a Toyota owners club but a glance at their forum does not reveal much on the Prado. As several have said on this forum, they are two different, but overlapping vehicles for two overlapping markets.

[outback_ute]

Ubdevoib, Ubdevoid, udbevoid (which ever one you are) why is it so hard to accept the Territory exists and as new2ford says has an overlapping market with the Prado? The Prado isn’t that much of a hard-core 4x4 anyway, it has independent front suspension! If the Territory will do what a buyer expects, why do they have to buy more off-road ability than they are going to use?

[davester]

Own a Terri AWD, but if I was going offroad into challenging stuff, I'd buy the Prado. Actually I'd buy on of the many secondhand Prado's that have never left the tarmac.

Though, having driven the Terri, I'd maybe stick with it (because it drives like an X5), and hire a Cruiser for the occasional offroad weekend.

[new2ford]

Sapphire I just remembered there was a comparison test between the Territory and Prado in 4X4 Australia magazine about July last year. Being an offroad magazine it obviously came down in favour of Prado's for the offroad side of things but you might get some useful information from the article.

[Ouzo]

Anyway back on topic, with regards to running costs would there be there much difference between AWD Terri & Prado 4wd. They both have a AWD/4wd system to maintain at every service, then there is the fuel consumption issue and they both have similar weights & tyre sizes??.
I remember reading somewhere (maybe in the 4x4 article mentioned above) that the Prado achieved marginally better fuel consumption and that was before it got a 5 speed auto. Can't comment on the other aspects other than a friend of mine with a Prado has had problems with excessive tyre wear.

Al the silly debates aside - I am a very happy Territory owner and I'm sure there are many very happy Prado owners. As others have commented it really gets down to how much genuine off road you intend doing. If like me its not a lot of off roading and you won't be going into difficult terrain I think you'd be very happy with the Territory.

Will be interested to hear your final decision and how you reached it.

[Sapphire]

As I have had the Terri for a couple of days (and loved it, this was arranged through a friend who knew the sales guy). I thought I might also do the same thing with the Prado, however the sales people wouldnt lend me one over night I think. Therefore i might hire a Prado from Avis for a couple of days and give it a more thorough test drive.

It was amazing how much more i found out about the Terri when I had it for a couple days (things I liked & disliked). I will try and arrange something in the comings days and i will post up my thoughts.

[b2tf]

It may be worth asking the Toyota Salespeople as i think they do lend them out sometimes, in a similar way to how Ford do it.

[johnydep]

As I have had the Terri for a couple of days (and loved it, this was arranged through a friend who knew the sales guy). I thought I might also do the same thing with the Prado, however the sales people wouldnt lend me one over night I think. Therefore i might hire a Prado from Avis for a couple of days and give it a more thorough test drive.

It was amazing how much more i found out about the Terri when I had it for a couple days (things I liked & disliked). I will try and arrange something in the comings days and i will post up my thoughts.

When deciding which vehicle to buy, I mentioned the price drop that Holden had with the Adventra to the Ford salesman and that I wanted to go to Holden's & road test the Adventra, the Ford guy did not want me to go & was all prepared to hire a Adventra for me to road test overnight.

[Peter B]

Go for the Territory-you don't need a heavy duty 4WD for what you have said you would do in it, and the Territory is a far superior road car, which is what you really need. Why pay for strong 4WD mechanicals and high service costs when you don't need them? Spend the money on creature comforts and greater safety and stability instead.
We just changed from a 2000 Prado TX diesel, which was a very good vehicle in its own way, but we found the access and exit increasingly awkward (getting old), the handling a bit top heavy and ponderous, and the price of diesel and servicing sky rocketing. So far the Terri is on a par fuel cost wise (uses more but costs less) and servicing will be 75% less.The Terri is a whole generation ahead in comfort and sheer driving pleasure, and has a much more thoughtful and user friendly interior. The Prado has a large side opening rear door which can be difficult to use, whereas the Terri has the very handy split tailgate.
Don't miss the Prado one bit.

[Sapphire]

Thanks for everyones comments, as requested I have posted up my findings after having hired a Prado for a couple of days .

As alot of people have read my post I thought the only way to settle this was to do my own road tests.

A friend of mine who has a Territory TS AWD (owned a Pajero prior, and has a greater level of 4wd knowledge than myself) came with me for a 2 day fishing trip. I towed my boat to our cabin in the Prado and he towed it back on the Territory the following day to compare.

I took the Prado to all the places where I thought I would need to go and then some (apart from the snow) and it handled everything without trouble. The Territory went to about 60-70% of the places that the Prado went.

Our findings:

1) Fuel consumption figures:

Prado towing boat: 14.9 L/100 km
Prado not towing: 12.5 L/100 km

Territory towing boat: 16.9 L/100km
Territori not towing: 13.7 L/100 km

No surprises here.

Figures calculated using manual calculation and checked with trip computers on each vehicle (note: results are almost the same)

2) Territory had trouble getting down to waters edge a few times without scraping itself on rocks on the way down (note: Heaps of 2wd drive utes Hilux & Rodeo's etc at waters edge which appeared to have little difficulty. We talked to one of the 2wd Rodeo owners who confirmed this). This was probably the most interesting discovery of the whole trip.

When launching boat on sand (not using boat ramp) the back of the Territory's tailgate was half underwater, due to its lower height. We decided not to risk the Territory in going on any further and decided to use the Prado instead. Lucky we did as the Prado's Low range made it alot easier. The Territory had a degree of trouble just getting itself out of the water, never mind the boat as well even with TC on or off.

3) Prado has no rear air vents for rear passengers, a surprising discovery for a $50k + vehicle!!.

4) Territory feels really twitchy on the road and felt like the steering was over sensitive. ( I picked this up last time I drove the Territory as well and after a while I remebered I got use to it, but it still feels strange.

5) Territory has more little compartments to store crap into however, Prado generally has more bulk boot room to store this stuff in the back anyway.

6) Headlights on Prado are crap, Territory's are marginally better.

7) The 180l tank is awesome in the Prado, however the $200 petrol bill was a little hard to swallow before we left.

Overall the trip was well worth while in discovering which vehicle is suited to my needs.

In summary I think I am pretty much going to buy the Prado due to its more versatile off road ability. While there is no doubt that the Territory handles a little better on road, the Prado seems to more than easily compensate this the moment you step off the bitumen. Furthermore, while I do not intend to go seriously into the Desert etc, it was nonetheless very handy to have a vehicle that could that little bit further to do the things we wanted to do.


From all the vehicles that I tested including the two above my ratings is as per below:

1) Prado (as above)
2) Territory (as above)
3) Kluger ( Nice car, similar to territory, but looks ugly)
4) Outback (nice car, very small storage)
5) Adventura (very poor)

[b2tf]

In summary I think I am pretty much going to buy the Prado

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! :weirdo:

I know where you live and I will be paying visits. And if there is a bullbar in play.........:shootout:

[johnydep]

In summary I think I am pretty much going to buy the Prado due to its more versatile off road ability. While there is no doubt that the Territory handles a little better on road, the Prado seems to more than easily compensate this the moment you step off the bitumen. Furthermore, while I do not intend to go seriously into the Desert etc, it was nonetheless very handy to have a vehicle that could that little bit further to do the things we wanted to do.

Yes the Prado is a very good 4WD and very capable at 4WD tasks, but saying that "the Territory handles a little better on road" is very misleading. The Prado is a 4WD with a truck chassis, designed to handle off road conditions, the Territory is a AWD with a car type Monocoque chassis, designed to handle on road conditions.
My dad tows his boat with a tractor, he does not intend to farm, but he finds it reassuring to have such a vehicle next to his boat.

Congratulations and good luck with your "Truck" http://www.nosuv.org/suvspecs.html :yeees:

[Ouzo]

Sapphire, if I was going to judgement based on the things you did on your trial then I think my decision would also be for the Prado. However, you seem to have undervalued the on road and dirt road superiority of the Territory. My comparison test drives rated the Terri markedly superior in these conditions which were where I would be spending 99% of my time.
Twitchy handling on the Terri? Not sure how you reached that conclusion. I suppose though I'd find a Ferrari a bit twitchy at first!
Good luck with the Prado - despite my Territory bias, I'd be the first to agree it is a fine off road vehicle (I almost got one myself). Give us an update after you've owned it for awhile.

[new2ford]

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! :weirdo:
I know where you live and I will be paying visits. And if there is a bullbar in play.........:shootout:

Now what's that supposed to mean?! Ultimately everybody is entitled to choose their vehicle according to their needs. I'd say Sapphire's analysis is well thought out. He won't have the same on-road driving pleasure but the Prado obviously fulfils other needs so good luck to him. I question the fuel consumption figures though - how run-in is that Territory? With or without a boat my readings are in the 11s to 13s in those circumstances. Hope the Prado doesn't have any problems - hate you to run into Toyota's abysmal attitudes to warranty follow-ups. But then I suppose you take your luck with some Ford dealers too!

[Sapphire]

Now what's that supposed to mean?! Ultimately everybody is entitled to choose their vehicle according to their needs. I'd say Sapphire's analysis is well thought out. He won't have the same on-road driving pleasure but the Prado obviously fulfils other needs so good luck to him. I question the fuel consumption figures though - how run-in is that Territory? With or without a boat my readings are in the 11s to 13s in those circumstances. Hope the Prado doesn't have any problems - hate you to run into Toyota's abysmal attitudes to warranty follow-ups. But then I suppose you take your luck with some Ford dealers too!


The TS AWD has around 10,000km on it. (Note: The Prado that I rented had around 2500km on it)

As for Toyota's warranty yes I agree it does depend on the dealer, some are good and some are just bloody terrible. I have purchased a car from our local Toyota dealer before and I have had a fantastic level of service from them, each dealer is different I guess. I would highly recommend the Toyota Extra Care warranty as well.

Just thought id share something else. I approached my local dealer for prices etc and felt very comfortable with there service. Just as a precaution I rang a Toyota dealership in Sydney to double check that I was getting a good deal. The sales guy started out all nice etc (as they all do) I explained my situation etc re double checking a quote etc, and I was told that he could not ask his boss to beat the quote without my credit car number....?. Then if his boss could beat the quote he would place a deposit on my credit card straight away. I thought this was bloody ridiculous and refused. He must have asked me 10- 20 times for my card info and I contiued to refuse.

I told him to go and ask his boss to beat the quote without my credit card which he did not like but did so anyway. He rang back a few minutes later and was very quick to stay that his boss had refused, so I thanked him for his time and said bye.

Another sales guy (who I think was his boss) rang back a week later and asked me if i still wanted to buy the car, I said yes but based on my experience thus far with his dealership I was not going to buy from there out of principle.

I have not heard from them since........


Anybody else heard of this sort of things happening?

[b2tf]

new2ford,

my comment was a joke - I know Sapphire outside of these forums and was just having a dig. Im not so shallow as to bag someone for buying a Toyota over a Ford if it is a bettet vehicle for what they want.

Sapphire,

that credit card things sounds VERY odd, ive never heard of a credit card coming into play during any stage of car buying unless it's how you intend on paying for the car. Sounds like they were trying to lock you in to buying which is never a good thing.

[Polyal]

Sounds like you picked the right car for your needs, good stuff.

Its also good to see someone takes the effort to try out both cars first. Usually people dive straight in then start bitching that it sucks.

[Sky Pilot]

The prado is a piece of crap.If you change your battery you must reprogramm your power windows from the drivers side in a special sequence or they wont work. The dashes and trim scratch easily.The radios drop in their brackets occassionally and squeek after a couple of months.I used to love toyota landcruisers..but recently I am not so sure. I think that they are overrated.I've owned a Prado for 8 years and had absoltely no problems at all. Not one warranty claim in that time and I've noticed none of the things you mention. If you're going to help someone make a decision, don't use rumours. Have you ever owned one?

[Territory]

If you do currently own one, there was a recall announced last week on certain Prados globally for steering issues. You should contact your dealer to check.

[Fast forward]

If you do currently own one, there was a recall announced last week on certain Prados globally for steering issues. You should contact your dealer to check.



Only vehicles built

Model Years From: 22 May 2001-7August 2002

are maybe affected.

http://www.recalls.gov.au/view_recall_detail.php?Recall_ID_Auto=13360

[Fast forward]

Sapphire , the TErritory is a good looking comfortable vehicle for around town and highway trips. If you want to go off road the Prado is the way to go . I would no sooner take my Terri off the road than my XR6 !

[The Taipan]

Took my XR6 off road once, had too, but I was EXTREMELY careful, even had to do a dry creek crossing, got through with some light scrapes to the front spoiler, but I have taken my 2wd Territory off road a few times now, nothing super serious, but it handles a light state forest track very well...

[jr12]

Been a couple of years and I was wondering how you got on. I have same issue and was considering what vehicle to use. Territory or Prado.

[Tles]

We obviously have a Territory, my sister has a Prado GXL (traded a Pajero), and BIL has a Discovery3 HSE and Territory.

If you plan on going offroad Touring for a significant portion of the time you own the vehicle for then go with the Prado - good used petrol for 35+ or get a turbo diesel new. The Discovery3 is so much better than the old Disco that it is well worth considering too TDV6 SE would be the pick especially a good usedie.

If most of the work will be onroad with the occassional offroad journey, like us to Robe, then the Territory will more than meet your needs.

[Deadman]

If most of the work will be onroad with the occassional offroad journey, like us to Robe, then the Territory will more than meet your needs.

Um, it's been two years - I'm sure they've decided by now :P

[Tles]

Um, it's been two years - I'm sure they've decided by now :P
Agreed just trying to help Jr12 with first post. Fair enough question as it is a choice made by many.

[paulie0735]

Um, it's been two years - I'm sure they've decided by now :P

Um, jr12 rebirthed this thread with a current question and a fair enough one at that.

The Prado has always been a pretty good thing when used for its primary purpose. The current one (particularly with the new Diesel) is a gem. I'd have one in a heartbeat if I wanted something skewed towards off road work.

[David See]

For what it is worth (this far down the track) I have had our Terry now for 18 months.

If I had my time again, I would go for the Prado, hands down.

The reasons:

(1) Build quality - leaves Territory in its dust
(2) Height (for vision)
(3) Height/Clearance for jumping gutters and going bush
(4) 8 Seats (our family has expanded and now we can't take anyone with us - probably should have got the 7-seat Terry in the first place!)
(5) Did I mention build quality?
(6) Room
(7) Solid/quiet feel on the road

The Territory is a great car but feels like it was thrown together although I have not had as much trouble as some others here.

If the Prado had a lift-up tailgate (I know some of the UK models do - look at the website) and I didn't owe so much on the Territory, I would sell it now and get a Prado.

Waiting for the next model to come out.

[johnydep]

Hello David, It's been a while since we saw you last.

[davester]

For what it is worth (this far down the track) I have had our Terry now for 18 months.

If I had my time again, I would go for the Prado, hands down.

The reasons:

(1) Build quality - leaves Territory in its dust
(2) Height (for vision)
(3) Height/Clearance for jumping gutters and going bush
(4) 8 Seats (our family has expanded and now we can't take anyone with us - probably should have got the 7-seat Terry in the first place!)
(5) Did I mention build quality?
(6) Room
(7) Solid/quiet feel on the road

The Territory is a great car but feels like it was thrown together although I have not had as much trouble as some others here.

If the Prado had a lift-up tailgate (I know some of the UK models do - look at the website) and I didn't owe so much on the Territory, I would sell it now and get a Prado.

Waiting for the next model to come out.

Why don't you talk to your finance company/bank about trading across to a same age 7 seat Terri...they can be pretty creative.

Have you lived with a Prado? I'd question 4, 6 and 7, which is why Terri is such a sales success. Take a peek over at the Toyota forums and you'll find just as much grizzling.

If u r going 4WDing then the on-road compromises and narrow cabin compared to Terri are worth it...only if you are going 4WDing.

[gz1]

For what it is worth (this far down the track) I have had our Terry now for 18 months.

If I had my time again, I would go for the Prado, hands down.

The reasons:

(1) Build quality - leaves Territory in its dust
(2) Height (for vision)
(3) Height/Clearance for jumping gutters and going bush
(4) 8 Seats (our family has expanded and now we can't take anyone with us - probably should have got the 7-seat Terry in the first place!)
(5) Did I mention build quality?
(6) Room
(7) Solid/quiet feel on the road


re: 1 & 5. I was under the same impression, however the second terri I got is much much better build quality. Perhaps ford has listened and improved, perhaps they have had some practice or perhaps I just got lucky at the ford lottery.
re: 2 & 3. This comes with the big disadvantage of loss of handling and hence primary safety. The latter are far more important to me than the former, however to each his own.

re: 4 & 6. Have not lived with a prado, however I have had some trips in prados and from that limited experience as a passenger I would claim the terri is roomier. as for the 8 seats vs 5, well maybe a 7 seat terri would be a closer match.

re 7: You must be kidding. The prado drives like a truck on the road. I personally could not use that as a daily driver without risking stress related hypertension. Taking a prado for a test drive through Sydney gave me a whole new respect and reverence for truck drivers who are forced to drive similar vehicles daily.
But then again, to each his own. Have a look at changing over to a prado of the same/similar age as your terri, doing that won't cost you too much extra.

[Twinpiston]

Throw in the price of a Prado and the Terry still has it!!!

[Tles]

My sister has a 04 Prado GXL petrol had a 01 Pajero, they love it. They are a far better than average vehicle and not a bad compromise, I'd have one. What they are not though is a Territory, nor is a Kluger. If they don't have anything substantially better than a Territory then I wouldn't buy one.

Our friends have a late 06 TD GXL and it suits them, they are ex Jo'burg BTW.
What suits them is the touring range with the excellent new diesel which is a great thing, as is the offroad ability.
If more of my driving was of this type, then one would suit us too - the Territory does 95+% of what we would in a Prado and is far better as a day to day sedan/wagon replacement. A Discovery3 TDV6 SE for the same price as an AWD Ghia, would be almost irresistable though.