Convert Ford Explorer to LPG or buy a Kia Sorento?

[James_374224753]

We have 1998 Ford Explorer 50,000 miles 17 MPG solo 15 MPG towing value £2000 ,6000 miles solo 6000 miles towing per year.

Should I spend £1800 on an LPG conversion, just keep running on petrol or buy a £13,000 Kia Sorento Diesel Auto?

 

[354]

Not an easy one to answer as there are so many variables. If short term cost is the question then it is a matter of keep the Explorer and get it converted. If however it is a matter of long term cost then I would consider the Sorento. However if it were me I would opt for an XS Sorento with a 5 speed auto box, dont know which Sorento yoyu are looking at.

 

[mcghee]

My view is if you tow a fairly large 'van you'd be disappointed with the Sorrento after towing with an Explorer.

 

[DavidW1]

Hi James,

I faced a similar dilema 3 years ago - I had a 98 SWB shogun and had it converted to LPG.

It performed well and I was pleased with the saving at the pump, it reduced running cash flow considerably.

I passed it accross the family to my son as I found that a SWB was not the best towcar niether did it have enough room for my dog - had it been a LWB I would still be using it.

I now tow with a LWB desel Isuzu which is excellent but admit to a hankering back to a nice smooth V6 or V8 petrol/LPG.

I think in your case you need to consider pay back time firstly and then wether your Ford is durable enough to lastfor the next three years without major expense - at 50k it should be in good fettle but only you know what condition it's in.

I have no experience of US Fords but a soreexperience with Jeep and Chrysler - if an Explorer is in the same league as a Cherokee reliability wise then forget it - you might as well pour yourcash down the loo!

Against that you have to consider an additional investment of around

 

[James_374224753]

Hi James,

I faced a similar dilema 3 years ago - I had a 98 SWB shogun and had it converted to LPG.

It performed well and I was pleased with the saving at the pump, it reduced running cash flow considerably.

I passed it accross the family to my son as I found that a SWB was not the best towcar niether did it have enough room for my dog - had it been a LWB I would still be using it.

I now tow with a LWB desel Isuzu which is excellent but admit to a hankering back to a nice smooth V6 or V8 petrol/LPG.

I think in your case you need to consider pay back time firstly and then wether your Ford is durable enough to lastfor the next three years without major expense - at 50k it should be in good fettle but only you know what condition it's in.

I have no experience of US Fords but a soreexperience with Jeep and Chrysler - if an Explorer is in the same league as a Cherokee reliability wise then forget it - you might as well pour yourcash down the loo!

Against that you have to consider an additional investment of around