Cheap Price and 4x4 Capability Gives Competition to Jeep's TJ
Borrowing on the legendary names of Land Rover and Land Cruiser, the back-to-basics Cross Lander offers Land Rover Defender 4x4 capabilities at Suzuki Vitara prices - or at least that's the premise behind the 244 model's marketing spin.
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| Back-to-basics 4x4 at a value price. (Photo: Cross Lander) |
Designed and engineered in Romania and built in Brazil, the Cross Lander 244 is setting up shop in the U.S., with most of its current dealer body in the south, predominantly in Florida where the importer keeps its headquarters.
Power is derived from an International Harvester 2.8-L turbodiesel 4-cylinder making 124-hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 5-speed manual transmission. The drivetrain is perfect for true off-road aficionados while towing 2,630 kg (5,799 lbs) with trailer brakes is possible. But those looking for the smooth ride and dynamic handling of today's car-like SUVs probably won't be moved to take advantage, especially considering its 145 km/h (90 mph) top speed.
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| Off-road capability but lack of car-like handling in exchange for a low MSRP. (Photo: Cross Lander) |
Its USD$17,995 (CAD$24,385) could cause many to reconsider though, as there is little in the market that comes close to offering the Cross Lander 244's capabilities for such a low MSRP.
Young families will especially appreciate the model's bare-bones interior, with vinyl seats and rubber floors. It'll take only a hose to clean up JR's messes.