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This isn’t a new topic, but it is one I’m sure nearly all of you have thought about at one time or another. Should I keep my older 4X4 running, or trade it in on something new? For some, it is easy. Wait until the warranty expires, and trade your 3-5 year old fourby in on the next model – only to lose a fortune in the process thanks to depreciation. As I’ve mentioned plenty of times before, I have a GQ Patrol. And when I drive it, it makes me happy. The smells, the rattles, the shear terror of not knowing if it will conk out randomly for no reason. I sometimes think I don’t want to make it to my destination; that would simply be too easy. I actually pat it on the dashboard and mutter, “Good work!” when we do arrive in one piece. And that is what new 4X4s are to me… too easy. I’ve been piloting a Toyota Fortuner around lately, and have to say I am smitten.
So much so, I’m thinking about buying one. It just works. Off-road I dare say it would munch my GQ too; except when it comes to wheel travel and ground clearance. But it lacks ‘soul’ – like nearly every new vehicle on the market, really. And for most people, that isn’t even a consideration. A vehicle is an appliance these days; designed to do a job. It doesn’t need to have a soul. So do I sell, enjoy a reliable vehicle with air-con and Blueteeth (whatever that is)? Or do I battle on with the clunky but soulful Patrol that is easy and rather cheap to work on? I’d love to hear your thoughts, as it is a decision I just can’t seem to make.
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