Vehicle Tests > Tow Test: Part 1 - Large Wagons

• Low-speed (including reversing) to highlight caravan park maneuvering

• Emergency brake test from 80kph to test ABS actuation, grip and stability

These activities were in addition to Overlander's usual onroad freeway, highway, back-road and twisties testing. There was even a railway crossing and steady-state 80kph corner to test the metal's mettle. Of course, we also looked at cabins, towbar design and luggage areas, and measured fuel consumption to judge relative efficiencies.

How we did it
The logistics were daunting. No less than 30 of Australia's most popular 4WDs, - large and small, petrol and diesel; with a few exceptions, all tow-friendly automatics - were booked months ahead, so manufacturers could install tow equipment. To minimise Overlander's office disruption, and reduce wasted time, tolls and taxi fares, a vehicle collection/return schedule was designed, also taking heed of the need to test petrol and diesel models in pairs at similar times to competitors.

Then the real work began. The vehicles were picked up and delivered to 'ground zero', evaluated over the 165km loop, photographed and returned in an almost continuous rolling sequence of 12-hour days over four weeks. A big thanks to the PR/media staff from all 11 manufacturers - you know who you are - for helping make it happen.

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The team at Jayco Sydney weighed in with two 'tow masses'. For the larger 4WDs, a 2050kg dual-axle Jayco Sterling (and a Hayman Reece hitch) came our way. Jayco Sydney also made available a smaller Jayco pop-top (around 1000kg) to make the smaller wagons work for their living.

It's not only the biggest tow test ever assembled, but also the most comprehensive new-vehicle evaluation in Australian motoring-magazine history.

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY HSE TDV6
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY HSE V8

The package
Recipient of many international awards including Overlander's 4WDOTY, the third-generation Discovery blasted 4WD wagon technology into another orbit. Highlights of the seven seater (the entry-level model has five seats) include a hydroformed chassis, world-class engines, independent air-spring suspension at both ends and the five-mode Terrain Response system.

Whew. Power comes from a 4.4-litre petrol V8 with 220kW/425Nm or a 2.7-litre turbocharged intercooled diesel V6 with 140kW/440Nm. Both engines drive through a six-speed auto (with sports shift function) and full-time 4WD.

The driving position in the two HSEs on test offers multi-adjustable seats with fold-down armrests. Quality trim highlighted with wood and satin alloy give the interior a funkiness that the shades of grey of other vehicles can't match. However, the main instruments suffer from the numerals being shrouded by the needle.

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