Vehicle Tests > Towing Comparison: LandCruiser v Prado v Patrol v Jackaroo v ML270

The Prado's problem was stability. It didn't feel safe at speed with the rear end swaying as it did and would definitely require the fitment of some sort of towing aid. Its got the performance and driveability to keep up with the others and the security of permanent 4WD but its stability lets it down.

None of the vehicles tested performed badly and they all towed the Trakmaster with relative ease. But it became obvious that the heavier the vehicle, the longer the wheelbase and the more powerful the engine, the better it would tow. The LandCruiser is a winner on all accounts.

Note: The other electronically controlled turbo-diesel 4WD wagon currently on the market that would have fitted in this test is the Land Rover TD5 Discovery. It was tested in our last towing test in the August 1999 issue. Other vehicles in that test were the Discovery V8 and the V6 Pathfinder, Challenger, Frontera and Monterey.

Thanks to Trakmaster for the use of its Nullabor caravan. For a full report on living with the Trakmaster Nullabor see the April 2001 issue of Overlander. Call Trakmaster on 03 97200822 for more information and a brochure showing the full range of off-road caravans.
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