No-one makes a proper basic rough and ready 4x4

[Tannedbaldhead]

I work in construction and over the years there have always been rufty tufty basic competent 4/5 seat 4x4s that could bounce about rough sites pulling a little piling rig for soil investigation work or a water bowser for decontaminating plant then when finished be used by the operative as a company car.

Over the years there have been plenty of vehicles up for the task: Daihatsu Fourtracks, Isuzu Troopers, Hyundai Terracans, Mitsubishi Shogun Sports, Land Rover Defenders and Nissan Pathfinders all did the job well and none broke the bank. There are no doubt quite a few that also fit the same bill that have been around over the years.

Now? Not one vehicle is around that fits this bill. Not one. If you don't want to drive a pick-up nothing is available.
Surely to God there is a market for a cheap, basic, off-road capable 4x4 that can tow a reasonable weight.

[Tannedbaldhead]

ambuletz said:

Suzuki Jimny?

We worked with a fencer who did a lot of work with stables re-configuring fencing to grass fields. His works vehicle was a little old Jimny that had the back chopped off and then converted into a tiny off-road flatbed truck to carry his tools, posts and wire. It was also fitted with wide wheels massive oversized balloon tyres to spread the weight and save the grass he was driving on from damage.
To date it is my favourite 4x4.