T&T OFFICIAL New Vehicle Prices & Discussion Thread

[Capleton]

Yet another WTF head scratch courtesy of the Indian auto industry.

Is it a case of " you get what you pay for?"

It's basically a better baleno on stilts with the jimny drive train lol

Quite right, it is based on the Baleno's platform, but with the Grand Vitara (2WD) drive train, same engine and tranny. It should be at least 150-200kg lighter than the Grand Vitara, so the drive should be a lil more peppy with the better power to weight ratio.

Suzuki is basically gonna use the same engine set up (1.5L with ISG) on most of their model range.

Is this the same hybrid system that initially came on the RORO Swift hybrid?

I have no idea, would depend on what the RORO Swift came with (mild or strong hybrid).

Saw MG launched the the new MG4 EV :

- 2WD - $249K
- AWD - $285K

The dual motor AWD supposedly puts out over 400hp. Price is nice, bet the vehicle is nice as well. Only issue I have is the Chinese reliability factor.

Have been seeing various Sales reps putting up the ad I just refuse to believe its the 435hp version of that car they selling for 285k because that thing is rapid at road legal speeds.

Video of it drag racing an older R35 and Lambo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF9ksaXfUGg&t=47s

Update, the 400hp figure is erroneous. The reps got it wrong in their FB posts. The dual motor HP is something like 200hp while the estimated range is over 400km.

[Gladiator]

Yet another WTF head scratch courtesy of the Indian auto industry.

Is it a case of " you get what you pay for?"

It's basically a better baleno on stilts with the jimny drive train lol

Quite right, it is based on the Baleno's platform, but with the Grand Vitara (2WD) drive train, same engine and tranny. It should be at least 150-200kg lighter than the Grand Vitara, so the drive should be a lil more peppy with the better power to weight ratio.

Suzuki is basically gonna use the same engine set up (1.5L with ISG) on most of their model range.

Is this the same hybrid system that initially came on the RORO Swift hybrid?

I have no idea, would depend on what the RORO Swift came with (mild or strong hybrid).

Saw MG launched the the new MG4 EV :

- 2WD - $249K
- AWD - $285K

The dual motor AWD supposedly puts out over 400hp. Price is nice, bet the vehicle is nice as well. Only issue I have is the Chinese reliability factor.

Have been seeing various Sales reps putting up the ad I just refuse to believe its the 435hp version of that car they selling for 285k because that thing is rapid at road legal speeds.

Video of it drag racing an older R35 and Lambo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF9ksaXfUGg&t=47s

Update, the 400hp figure is erroneous. The reps got it wrong in their FB posts. The dual motor HP is something like 200hp while the estimated range is over 400km.

The spec say 170HP to be exact

[Strugglerzinc]

Quick google says the only dual motor option is the XPower version which has 400+Hp. All other trims are single motor with different HP and battery ratings.

[drchaos]

Has ansa been reduced to just selling low end third world Honda and mitsubishi models?
Except for the CRV ....

[nervewrecker]

Our fire service cant even put out a small house fire. I waiting for some scholar to do a bess sound system wuk on an electric car with exposed wiring and too small wire gauge.

That will shut down the highways for nearly a day when that fire happens.

It's wise to invest in your own fire extinguisher.

[telfer]

Has ansa been reduced to just selling low end third world Honda and mitsubishi models?
Except for the CRV ....

Please elaborate

[SLVR1]

Has ansa been reduced to just selling low end third world Honda and mitsubishi models?
Except for the CRV ....

Please elaborate

To some point maybe with the City and BRV. HRV is not too bad but still watered down. You still have the Civic. I am sure the new Accord will be introduced shortly. They are catering for differing segments. Cannot comment on Mitsubishi too much save and except for the Eclipse Cross.

[shake d livin wake d dead]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

[Capleton]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

Think Toyota will be launching it soon, some reps have teaser images on their FB pages.

[shake d livin wake d dead]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

Think Toyota will be launching it soon, some reps have teaser images on their FB pages.

E bounce

[Xander_25]

Good Day Everyone,

I'm looking at purchasing a new vehicle in the next 2 to 3 months and I was wondering whether any advice could be given. I'm looking at an SUV type vehicle (to accomodate wife and children) and after much searching, reading, etc., I'm leaning towards either of the following:

1. Suzuki Grand Vitara:
I was able to sit in one that belongs to a close friend of mine who recently bought his. It's very comfortable (important for me as I have minor back issues from a fall sustained while at work), the height is good and it is quite spacious. I'm approxiomately 6ft. 1 and there is a lot of headroom throughout, as well as the trunk space is sufficient. The features are cool and all (he showed me the 360 camera, HUD, etc.), but my main takeaway is the interior space and comfort especially if seated for long periods at a time.

2. Subaru Forester (RORO):

I have another close friend who has one (older model circa 2010) which I've ridden and drove in numerous times, and am also leaning towards this option; for the recent models I was considering the E-Boxer Hybrid versions (given the rising cost in fuel, etc.). I was looking at the 2021/2022 models as the 2023 has now integrated all functions into a singular touch interface which I dislike. However, in discussion with an associate who works with Massy Motors, he advised stongly against purchasing the Hybrid version, stating that Massy imports and tests these before comitting to selling them locally. He further stated that once the vehicle does not stand up to the tests, that they do not import them, hence the reason why they have no local hybrid versions to date.

Can anyone say for sure if what was stated RE: Massy is correct? If it is, then would now be safe to say that the more reasonable purchase would be the Vitara? I honestly would prefer the Forester as it has more cargo capacity, but I am also concerned about repairability/parts availability. The only other option I may consider would be the Mazda CX5, but are there any other SUVs that I should consider?I hope I've made sense; thanks in advance for any replies/advice given.

[zando]

Good Day Everyone,

I'm looking at purchasing a new vehicle in the next 2 to 3 months and I was wondering whether any advice could be given. I'm looking at an SUV type vehicle (to accomodate wife and children) and after much searching, reading, etc., I'm leaning towards either of the following:

1. Suzuki Grand Vitara:
I was able to sit in one that belongs to a close friend of mine who recently bought his. It's very comfortable (important for me as I have minor back issues from a fall sustained while at work), the height is good and it is quite spacious. I'm approxiomately 6ft. 1 and there is a lot of headroom throughout, as well as the trunk space is sufficient. The features are cool and all (he showed me the 360 camera, HUD, etc.), but my main takeaway is the interior space and comfort especially if seated for long periods at a time.

2. Subaru Forester (RORO):

I have another close friend who has one (older model circa 2010) which I've ridden and drove in numerous times, and am also leaning towards this option; for the recent models I was considering the E-Boxer Hybrid versions (given the rising cost in fuel, etc.). I was looking at the 2021/2022 models as the 2023 has now integrated all functions into a singular touch interface which I dislike. However, in discussion with an associate who works with Massy Motors, he advised stongly against purchasing the Hybrid version, stating that Massy imports and tests these before comitting to selling them locally. He further stated that once the vehicle does not stand up to the tests, that they do not import them, hence the reason why they have no local hybrid versions to date.

Can anyone say for sure if what was stated RE: Massy is correct? If it is, then would now be safe to say that the more reasonable purchase would be the Vitara? I honestly would prefer the Forester as it has more cargo capacity, but I am also concerned about repairability/parts availability. The only other option I may consider would be the Mazda CX5, but are there any other SUVs that I should consider?I hope I've made sense; thanks in advance for any replies/advice given.

I don't believe for one second that massy ' tests ' any vehicles, these are billion dollar companies that pour billions into r&d to design and produce these vehicles for multiple markets, how is massy so called ' testing ' better? .

Also the new Crosstrek massy is bringing, btw which is very over priced, has the e-boxer badge, Subaru e-boxer is hybrid, so why bring that in and not the Forester? I don't even think the current Forester comes in hybrid form.

Also you should probably drive that grand Vitara, the engine isn't very powerful so once loaded up it may struggle especially if you're heading places maracas etc.

I'd say check out the new vezel from a foreign used dealer.

[Xander_25]

Good Day Everyone,

I'm looking at purchasing a new vehicle in the next 2 to 3 months and I was wondering whether any advice could be given. I'm looking at an SUV type vehicle (to accomodate wife and children) and after much searching, reading, etc., I'm leaning towards either of the following:

1. Suzuki Grand Vitara:
I was able to sit in one that belongs to a close friend of mine who recently bought his. It's very comfortable (important for me as I have minor back issues from a fall sustained while at work), the height is good and it is quite spacious. I'm approxiomately 6ft. 1 and there is a lot of headroom throughout, as well as the trunk space is sufficient. The features are cool and all (he showed me the 360 camera, HUD, etc.), but my main takeaway is the interior space and comfort especially if seated for long periods at a time.

2. Subaru Forester (RORO):

I have another close friend who has one (older model circa 2010) which I've ridden and drove in numerous times, and am also leaning towards this option; for the recent models I was considering the E-Boxer Hybrid versions (given the rising cost in fuel, etc.). I was looking at the 2021/2022 models as the 2023 has now integrated all functions into a singular touch interface which I dislike. However, in discussion with an associate who works with Massy Motors, he advised stongly against purchasing the Hybrid version, stating that Massy imports and tests these before comitting to selling them locally. He further stated that once the vehicle does not stand up to the tests, that they do not import them, hence the reason why they have no local hybrid versions to date.

Can anyone say for sure if what was stated RE: Massy is correct? If it is, then would now be safe to say that the more reasonable purchase would be the Vitara? I honestly would prefer the Forester as it has more cargo capacity, but I am also concerned about repairability/parts availability. The only other option I may consider would be the Mazda CX5, but are there any other SUVs that I should consider?I hope I've made sense; thanks in advance for any replies/advice given.

I don't believe for one second that massy ' tests ' any vehicles, these are billion dollar companies that pour billions into r&d to design and produce these vehicles for multiple markets, how is massy so called ' testing ' better? .

Also the new Crosstrek massy is bringing, btw which is very over priced, has the e-boxer badge, Subaru e-boxer is hybrid, so why bring that in and not the Forester? I don't even think the current Forester comes in hybrid form.

Also you should probably drive that grand Vitara, the engine isn't very powerful so once loaded up it may struggle especially if you're heading places maracas etc.

I'd say check out the new vezel from a foreign used dealer.

Thanks for the insight. I'm actually from Tobago, so we have more hilly terrain here, so I'm wondering about how it would cope with that under a full load; my friend lives on flatter terrain so it may not be that much of a challenge for him. I did see the reviews about the engine's power output, so it's one of the reasons I wasn't too sold on it, but the physical interaction gave me a bit of hope so to speak.

I didn't know that the new Crosstrek is hybrid. Tbh, I wasn't sold on his explanation as Massy is historically (in my book) a say one thing and do another type of company. My first vehicle was an Elantra (2016) and I had numerous issues with the steering 2 years after buying which they denied existed till the warranty expired. I had to write to the chairman of Massy and ended up getting it replaced for free, so I have no intention of even setting foot in their showroom.

I'd have to see and sit in a Vezel for myself as it looks pretty small from my viewpoint, but again I've never interacted with one so I don't know for sure how it really feels. I should be coming to Trinidad sometime closer to the end of the month so I'll see about getting a test run at one of the RORO dealers. I can't say if any of the dealers here in Tobago have any but I'll check around and see as well.

[aaron17]

I sworn I saw a Kia Nero latest model on the road,,ah white or light cream with 2 vertical tail lights . I could be mistaken for a Hyundai.

[nick639v2]

Good Day Everyone,

I'm looking at purchasing a new vehicle in the next 2 to 3 months and I was wondering whether any advice could be given. I'm looking at an SUV type vehicle (to accomodate wife and children) and after much searching, reading, etc., I'm leaning towards either of the following:

1. Suzuki Grand Vitara:
I was able to sit in one that belongs to a close friend of mine who recently bought his. It's very comfortable (important for me as I have minor back issues from a fall sustained while at work), the height is good and it is quite spacious. I'm approxiomately 6ft. 1 and there is a lot of headroom throughout, as well as the trunk space is sufficient. The features are cool and all (he showed me the 360 camera, HUD, etc.), but my main takeaway is the interior space and comfort especially if seated for long periods at a time.

2. Subaru Forester (RORO):

I have another close friend who has one (older model circa 2010) which I've ridden and drove in numerous times, and am also leaning towards this option; for the recent models I was considering the E-Boxer Hybrid versions (given the rising cost in fuel, etc.). I was looking at the 2021/2022 models as the 2023 has now integrated all functions into a singular touch interface which I dislike. However, in discussion with an associate who works with Massy Motors, he advised stongly against purchasing the Hybrid version, stating that Massy imports and tests these before comitting to selling them locally. He further stated that once the vehicle does not stand up to the tests, that they do not import them, hence the reason why they have no local hybrid versions to date.

Can anyone say for sure if what was stated RE: Massy is correct? If it is, then would now be safe to say that the more reasonable purchase would be the Vitara? I honestly would prefer the Forester as it has more cargo capacity, but I am also concerned about repairability/parts availability. The only other option I may consider would be the Mazda CX5, but are there any other SUVs that I should consider?I hope I've made sense; thanks in advance for any replies/advice given.

22 forester owner here. My options last year were the CX5, Crv and forester so I suspect your train of thought is same . So far so good 90% of parts is available from the us for my model if massy decides to play up they mc. I avg 5.5/6L per 100kms which rivals some hybrids. Safety was my #1 which is why I went Subaru. If your going RORO route then check out the crv as well.

[Kritical01]

The CX5 is a comfortable and reliable vehicle. Zero issues to date. A regular proven 6 speed transmission will suit the hilly terrain. Premium fuel is however recommended and this may be an issue especially if you are looking at fuel economy.
Personally, I won’t recommend the new Tucson/Sportage due to the DCT tranny for the hilly terrain.

[A172]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

Goes on sale next week; basic G model, fabric interior $250k.

The Yaris Cross being sold by TTTL is the Daihatsu platform Indonesia/Taiwan made model for "developing markets".

It is not a replacement for the Japan/European made Yaris Cross which is a different model for Japan/Euro markets. That would explain why the Daihatsu YC has the Raize interior.

[telfer]

Has ansa been reduced to just selling low end third world Honda and mitsubishi models?
Except for the CRV ....

Please elaborate

To some point maybe with the City and BRV. HRV is not too bad but still watered down. You still have the Civic. I am sure the new Accord will be introduced shortly. They are catering for differing segments. Cannot comment on Mitsubishi too much save and except for the Eclipse Cross.

It’s what the market wants crossovers are the main focus right now the accord stayed in the showrooms for months and wasn’t moving it’s still available though but main focus is on suv type vehicles

[jamesblunt1]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

Goes on sale next week; basic G model, fabric interior $250k.

The Yaris Cross being sold by TTTL is the Daihatsu platform Indonesia/Taiwan made model for "developing markets".

It is not a replacement for the Japan/European made Yaris Cross which is a different model for Japan/Euro markets. That would explain why the Daihatsu YC has the Raize interior.

What’s the difference with the two models besides the engine?

[A172]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

Goes on sale next week; basic G model, fabric interior $250k.

The Yaris Cross being sold by TTTL is the Daihatsu platform Indonesia/Taiwan made model for "developing markets".

It is not a replacement for the Japan/European made Yaris Cross which is a different model for Japan/Euro markets. That would explain why the Daihatsu YC has the Raize interior.

What’s the difference with the two models besides the engine?

Japan YC - 18" rims, half leather interior, 360 degree cameras, powered seats, ambient lighting, powered tailgate, audible parking aids, seat heaters

Indo/Taiwan YC - 17" rims, fabric interior

Both carry the usual push button start, keyless entry, steering wheel controls, cruise control & TSS

styling is subjective

[Capleton]

Good Day Everyone,

I'm looking at purchasing a new vehicle in the next 2 to 3 months and I was wondering whether any advice could be given. I'm looking at an SUV type vehicle (to accomodate wife and children) and after much searching, reading, etc., I'm leaning towards either of the following:

1. Suzuki Grand Vitara:
I was able to sit in one that belongs to a close friend of mine who recently bought his. It's very comfortable (important for me as I have minor back issues from a fall sustained while at work), the height is good and it is quite spacious. I'm approxiomately 6ft. 1 and there is a lot of headroom throughout, as well as the trunk space is sufficient. The features are cool and all (he showed me the 360 camera, HUD, etc.), but my main takeaway is the interior space and comfort especially if seated for long periods at a time.

2. Subaru Forester (RORO):

I have another close friend who has one (older model circa 2010) which I've ridden and drove in numerous times, and am also leaning towards this option; for the recent models I was considering the E-Boxer Hybrid versions (given the rising cost in fuel, etc.). I was looking at the 2021/2022 models as the 2023 has now integrated all functions into a singular touch interface which I dislike. However, in discussion with an associate who works with Massy Motors, he advised stongly against purchasing the Hybrid version, stating that Massy imports and tests these before comitting to selling them locally. He further stated that once the vehicle does not stand up to the tests, that they do not import them, hence the reason why they have no local hybrid versions to date.

Can anyone say for sure if what was stated RE: Massy is correct? If it is, then would now be safe to say that the more reasonable purchase would be the Vitara? I honestly would prefer the Forester as it has more cargo capacity, but I am also concerned about repairability/parts availability. The only other option I may consider would be the Mazda CX5, but are there any other SUVs that I should consider?I hope I've made sense; thanks in advance for any replies/advice given.

I don't believe for one second that massy ' tests ' any vehicles, these are billion dollar companies that pour billions into r&d to design and produce these vehicles for multiple markets, how is massy so called ' testing ' better? .

Also the new Crosstrek massy is bringing, btw which is very over priced, has the e-boxer badge, Subaru e-boxer is hybrid, so why bring that in and not the Forester? I don't even think the current Forester comes in hybrid form.

Also you should probably drive that grand Vitara, the engine isn't very powerful so once loaded up it may struggle especially if you're heading places maracas etc.

I'd say check out the new vezel from a foreign used dealer.

Thanks for the insight. I'm actually from Tobago, so we have more hilly terrain here, so I'm wondering about how it would cope with that under a full load; my friend lives on flatter terrain so it may not be that much of a challenge for him. I did see the reviews about the engine's power output, so it's one of the reasons I wasn't too sold on it, but the physical interaction gave me a bit of hope so to speak.

I didn't know that the new Crosstrek is hybrid. Tbh, I wasn't sold on his explanation as Massy is historically (in my book) a say one thing and do another type of company. My first vehicle was an Elantra (2016) and I had numerous issues with the steering 2 years after buying which they denied existed till the warranty expired. I had to write to the chairman of Massy and ended up getting it replaced for free, so I have no intention of even setting foot in their showroom.

I'd have to see and sit in a Vezel for myself as it looks pretty small from my viewpoint, but again I've never interacted with one so I don't know for sure how it really feels. I should be coming to Trinidad sometime closer to the end of the month so I'll see about getting a test run at one of the RORO dealers. I can't say if any of the dealers here in Tobago have any but I'll check around and see as well.

I have 2023 Grand Vitara, it's not so much that the engine is under powered. From my experience, its the gearing ratios on the vehilce's transmission. It tends to hold the higher gears longer (for efficiency reasons I assume), so sometime the car is in a higher gear when it should down shift to a lower gear to harness the engines output. That said, I took it to Maracas this past Saturday (loaded vehicle). I used the paddle shifters going up the hills and it worked fine. I could have also tried putting it into sport mode for better throttle response, but was not necessary when using the paddle shifters. Apart for the engine/tranny power delivery issue, it does check all the right boxes in terms of price, safety and tech. A great family vehicle. I also had a Subaru Forester, but the older SG5 XT. A new Forester and or Crosstrek is almost double the price of a fully loaded Grand Vitara. I could write a book on "Subaru-ism", loved my SG5, but a 2.0L boxer engine will drink gas, and the new SG5 does not come turbo charged at Massy, so it wont be anything special.

[zando]

See they bringing the new Kona soon, N-line is 285k and the gl is 249.

[shake d livin wake d dead]

Can anyone say if we would be seeing the 2024 yaris cross on our shores?

Goes on sale next week; basic G model, fabric interior $250k.

The Yaris Cross being sold by TTTL is the Daihatsu platform Indonesia/Taiwan made model for "developing markets".

It is not a replacement for the Japan/European made Yaris Cross which is a different model for Japan/Euro markets. That would explain why the Daihatsu YC has the Raize interior.

What’s the difference with the two models besides the engine?

The new one looks like a smaller rav4...at 250k, pretty decent for the price. Pretty sure RORO dealers might bring a few

[A172]

fu dealers have access to the japan/euro spec only

[shake d livin wake d dead]

fu dealers have access to the japan/euro spec only

Which would you recommend? Fu or stealership

[A172]

more features, less $, better interior, a more modern look & japan built is a no-brainer for me

the daihatsu product would obv be cheapy hence the raize interior, less features etc. but it would appeal to those who can't afford a Rav4 but want the Rav4 look

both vehicles would appeal to 2 different customer bases

[shake d livin wake d dead]

more features, less $, better interior, a more modern look & japan built is a no-brainer for me

the daihatsu product would obv be cheapy hence the raize interior, less features etc. but it would appeal to those who can't afford a Rav4 but want the Rav4 look

both vehicles would appeal to 2 different customer bases

Moms looking for a retirement vehicle to roll around and carry out lil errands. She used a yaris for the last 8 years and with regular maintenance it was an exceptional vehicle.

It was a toss up between this
Vezel(almost everybody have it)
Xtrail

But would prefer to stick with toyota. Thanks for the assistance

[drchaos]

more features, less $, better interior, a more modern look & japan built is a no-brainer for me

the daihatsu product would obv be cheapy hence the raize interior, less features etc. but it would appeal to those who can't afford a Rav4 but want the Rav4 look

both vehicles would appeal to 2 different customer bases

Moms looking for a retirement vehicle to roll around and carry out lil errands. She used a yaris for the last 8 years and with regular maintenance it was an exceptional vehicle.

It was a toss up between this
Vezel(almost everybody have it)
Xtrail

But would prefer to stick with toyota. Thanks for the assistance

Whats your definition of exceptional???
Or do you just mean reliable?

[shake d livin wake d dead]

more features, less $, better interior, a more modern look & japan built is a no-brainer for me

the daihatsu product would obv be cheapy hence the raize interior, less features etc. but it would appeal to those who can't afford a Rav4 but want the Rav4 look

both vehicles would appeal to 2 different customer bases

Moms looking for a retirement vehicle to roll around and carry out lil errands. She used a yaris for the last 8 years and with regular maintenance it was an exceptional vehicle.

It was a toss up between this
Vezel(almost everybody have it)
Xtrail

But would prefer to stick with toyota. Thanks for the assistance

Whats your definition of exceptional???
Or do you just mean reliable?

That vehicle was used as a daily from grande to piarco with the odd runs here and there. From monday to friday, gas gauge read just under half tank and we used premium.

Changed: tyres once, batteries twice(3rd might be soon), plugs.

In that 8 years, suspension still solid as a rock and drives very smooth and nice...Id take some interior pics, one would consider it as straight outa the showroom still.

Id say very very reliable after that time, cant really fault it for a daily. Shrugs shoulders

[carluva]

Good Day Everyone,

I'm looking at purchasing a new vehicle in the next 2 to 3 months and I was wondering whether any advice could be given. I'm looking at an SUV type vehicle (to accomodate wife and children) and after much searching, reading, etc., I'm leaning towards either of the following:

1. Suzuki Grand Vitara:
I was able to sit in one that belongs to a close friend of mine who recently bought his. It's very comfortable (important for me as I have minor back issues from a fall sustained while at work), the height is good and it is quite spacious. I'm approxiomately 6ft. 1 and there is a lot of headroom throughout, as well as the trunk space is sufficient. The features are cool and all (he showed me the 360 camera, HUD, etc.), but my main takeaway is the interior space and comfort especially if seated for long periods at a time.

2. Subaru Forester (RORO):

I have another close friend who has one (older model circa 2010) which I've ridden and drove in numerous times, and am also leaning towards this option; for the recent models I was considering the E-Boxer Hybrid versions (given the rising cost in fuel, etc.). I was looking at the 2021/2022 models as the 2023 has now integrated all functions into a singular touch interface which I dislike. However, in discussion with an associate who works with Massy Motors, he advised stongly against purchasing the Hybrid version, stating that Massy imports and tests these before comitting to selling them locally. He further stated that once the vehicle does not stand up to the tests, that they do not import them, hence the reason why they have no local hybrid versions to date.

Can anyone say for sure if what was stated RE: Massy is correct? If it is, then would now be safe to say that the more reasonable purchase would be the Vitara? I honestly would prefer the Forester as it has more cargo capacity, but I am also concerned about repairability/parts availability. The only other option I may consider would be the Mazda CX5, but are there any other SUVs that I should consider?I hope I've made sense; thanks in advance for any replies/advice given.

I don't believe for one second that massy ' tests ' any vehicles, these are billion dollar companies that pour billions into r&d to design and produce these vehicles for multiple markets, how is massy so called ' testing ' better? .

Also the new Crosstrek massy is bringing, btw which is very over priced, has the e-boxer badge, Subaru e-boxer is hybrid, so why bring that in and not the Forester? I don't even think the current Forester comes in hybrid form.

Also you should probably drive that grand Vitara, the engine isn't very powerful so once loaded up it may struggle especially if you're heading places maracas etc.

I'd say check out the new vezel from a foreign used dealer.

Thanks for the insight. I'm actually from Tobago, so we have more hilly terrain here, so I'm wondering about how it would cope with that under a full load; my friend lives on flatter terrain so it may not be that much of a challenge for him. I did see the reviews about the engine's power output, so it's one of the reasons I wasn't too sold on it, but the physical interaction gave me a bit of hope so to speak.

I didn't know that the new Crosstrek is hybrid. Tbh, I wasn't sold on his explanation as Massy is historically (in my book) a say one thing and do another type of company. My first vehicle was an Elantra (2016) and I had numerous issues with the steering 2 years after buying which they denied existed till the warranty expired. I had to write to the chairman of Massy and ended up getting it replaced for free, so I have no intention of even setting foot in their showroom.

I'd have to see and sit in a Vezel for myself as it looks pretty small from my viewpoint, but again I've never interacted with one so I don't know for sure how it really feels. I should be coming to Trinidad sometime closer to the end of the month so I'll see about getting a test run at one of the RORO dealers. I can't say if any of the dealers here in Tobago have any but I'll check around and see as well.

Being underpowered is relative and to be honest I would safely say that any vehicle on the road could take the hilly terrain of Maracas and even Tobago.

I've done several road trips across Tobago across the Main Ridge from Roxborough to Parlatuvier. Whilst I did it in a 4x4 SUV (not needing to ever use it) I have seen Almeras, b13s and Tiidas make that run. Even these type of vehicles make the Fond Pois Doux Road off the North Coast Road.

I have been to Barbados and rented a 1.3l Suzuki APV and made some steep hills close to Oistins and on the Eastern Atlantic side. And that van made those runs with 6 adults and one child in it.

While vehicle power has alot to do with the ability to overcome hills, proper driving technique, use of lower gears and constant and steady throttle control also significantly contributes to being able to drive on hilly terrain.

I think your vehicle choices are fine. My only concern with Suzuki is availability of parts. Having owned a Swift, I can say that Lifestyle did not have a large stock of parts and often, for some intermediate type repairs, a 3 month wait time was necessary to get the parts. Parts were also not widely available elsewhere.

Being from Tobago, you should consider servicing of your vehicle especially from a new car dealer (not grey market new car).

Personally, I'd stick with the Toyota (I have bias here) as my first choice. Subaru, Mazda and Nissan would then be the others I'd consider.

Your budget would also factor in and if you're budget is capped at a Grand Vitara, the others I mentioned may be out of reach.

If not, have a look at a CX5, RAV4 or another offering from TTTL or Mazda.

Good luck.