Hyundai Terracan (2003 - 2007) 2.9 CRTD 5d Auto (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Practical, functional and gets the job done. Not flash or superficial, with deep-rooted ability. (That's the car anyway - no doubt others would say differently about me!)

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Very comfortable, very handy (when towing others out of trouble!), large and often ask "Just what is it?"

Would you buy this car again and why?

Without hesitation - would like a later "Limited" version with integral roof-mounted DVD player for the kids in the back and a bit more power.

What are you likely to buy next?

If I can get hold of one, a "Limited" Terracan!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,600

When did you buy the car?

December 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Overall deal was good - cash sale - although salesperson unsure on a number of issues, ie service history, functionality of air conditioning.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed a full-size 4X4 for boat towing and to be large enough to accomodate a family on camping trips.

What was the dealer like?

Clean, efficient but didn't carry out the requested remedial work fully.

What's it like to drive?

As expected for a fullsize/ladder frame chassis 4X4, has a degree of roll when cornering but engine, albeit bit noisy, more than powerful enough and knobbly ride settles down on long motorway runs. All seats roomy and comfortable. Overall - very easy to drive and place on road, with smooth and responsive automatic transmission.

What's it like to park?

Thanks to vertical rear window/tailgate, not too bad (always remember the towbar!)with excellent side vision. Very handy that the car is relatively narrow compared to other fullsize 4X4s.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Have had a fair bit replaced/upgraded as car was to an extent neglected by the previous owner (but I was aware of this when I bought it)- sadly car was out of warranty so incurred full cost! Have had steering pump replaced on top of ongoing maintenance/wear such as brakes, suspension etc.

What's most practical about your car?

Plenty of accommodation and genuine off-road ability - tested during extreme winter rescue trips through snow to the Highlands! Very capable as tow car with decent consumption for a 2.9l turbodiesel (up to 35mpg).

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Self-dimming rear-view mirror - excellent!