Top towcars for 2012: Vauxhall Mokka and new Toyota Land Cruiser
The Mokka is Vauxhall's first ever compact SUV
Thursday, 12, Jan 2012 04:27
by Chris Jefferies
Choosing your towcar is never an easy decision, with so many attractive options on the market. And with a flurry of new launches being planned in 2012, that decision is likely to become even harder.
For this reason, CaravanTimes has run the rule over two of the more exciting new launches heading your way in the next 12 months - the exciting new Vauxhall Mokka and the revamped Toyota Land Cruiser V8.
Make mine a Mokka
Continuing one of the key themes from 2011, Vauxhall is moving into the compact SUV market with its latest offering, the Mokka (pictured above).
Its sporty styling is instantly reminiscent of the Nissan Juke, the Range Rover Evoque and the Kia Sportage, but it also has the respectable pulling power of up to 300Nm to back this up.
Towcar buyers will surely be tempted to plump for the All-Wheel Drive version, which Vauxhall claim ensures "high levels of stability and safety" and will provide plenty of grip, even in "more rugged environments".
In terms of engines, there are two petrol options (1.4 and 1.6 litre) as well as a 1.7-litre turbo diesel version, all of which come with a six-speed manual gearbox. Automatic drivers will have a straight choice between the 1.4 and the 1.7 litre power plant.
Prices, weights and towing limits will be announced closer to the Mokka's March launch date, but with its impressive looks, this is certainly a tempting prospect.
A tough new Toyota
For those who prefer a more traditional look for their 4x4, there's a new version of the Toyota Land Cruiser on the way, as the Japanese carmakers are adding a V8 to its range.
With a 4.5-litre turbo diesel engine that generates a massive 650Nm of torque, this is certainly a very powerful contender that should be able to easily shift even the heaviest of twin-axle caravans.
Despite the new Land Cruiser's impressive engine size, Toyota has managed to bring it within the Euro 5 emissions standards, which should shave off a few pounds at the pumps.
Aesthetically there have been a few changes too, with a new over-sized front bumper and integrated fog-lights, which give the Land Cruiser a distinctly heavy-duty look.
In terms of optional extras, Toyota will be offering a new heated steering wheel, a cool box in the centre console and a power-assisted tailgate.
With a March release date in the diary, they are holding back on the rest of the details for now, but it Toyota can keep the prices down, this ultimate Land Cruiser could prove to be a very popular option for new towcar buyers.
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