What used dual-cab ute should I buy? - Drive
He'd like us to point him to some of the better equipped options in his budget range. The budget Less than $20,000. The shortlist Toyota's Hilux is the default choice for many dual-cab buyers, but its golden resale means higher prices than the norm. In this budget range, that means a distinct difference between what kind of safety gear you can get in a Hilux and its alternatives, and it's not in the favour of the Toyota. A later year example with the right safety kit (i. e. stability control and curtain airbags, which arrived in 2011) but also a high odometer count wouldn't necessarily be a ticket to ownership oblivion. Here, though, we'll focus on some sub-$20k dual-cab 4x4s that allow you to maximise safety without having to compromise unreasonably on age or condition. 2006-11 Ford Ranger crew cab 4X4 pick-up, from $9700*. This Ford is tight in the back, its maximum towing capacity (2500kg) isn't a benchmark and its ride and handling are old-school (i. e. vague and bouncy). But the Ranger's twin front/side airbags and ABS combo (standard on topline XLT, the latter two optional on base XL) is better than you can expect in the Holden Colorados, Isuzu D-Maxes and other rivals of this era. Source: www.drive.com.au
