Positive from the negative; MATTHEW TUMBRIDGE looks at three "soft-roaders' that are worth considering

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), April 23, 2008

Byline: MATTHEW TUMBRIDGE

MOST of us don't live in London, but to read the national press you would think we do.

For the millions outside the M25, even if Ken Livingstone decides to tax the residents of Chelsea for breathing while driving, our lives won't change too much. Looking at the pictures of motorists trapped in recent storms and floods underlined the value of a 4x4 outside of London. Of course, if all the negative press about 4x4s continues, then prices will soften. So don't rush, but keep an eye on these three popular 'soft-roaders'.

Honda CRV:

Make: Honda Model: CRV (1997-present) An excellent estate car with 4x4 ability and looks. It won't break down - ever. Pre-2002 model is now the value buy, but not always that cheap, especially when buying privately. Most economical: 2002 on 2.0 - 3 1mpg Best used buy: 2.0 ES Buy from: Honda dealers, specialists dealers.

UsedCarExper t.com buyers checks: 7 Price: A year 2000 2.0 ES with 78,000 miles should be around pounds 4,499-pounds 4,633.

Land Rover Freelander:

Make: Land Rover Model: Freelander (1997-2003) A good on and off-road compromise. Better than some lightweight 4x4s and the Land Rover badge keeps values firm. Early cars need to be checked thoroughly for faults though. Most economical: 2.0 Td4 - 37.2mpg Best used buy: Station Wagon GS second generation 1.8 Buy from: Land Rover dealers/specialists, auctions, company/private sellers. UsedCarExper t.com buyers checks: 12 Price: A year 2001 2.0 Td4 with 74,000 miles should be around pounds 4,601 - pounds 5,575.

Mitsubishi Shogun:

Make: Mitsubishi Model: Shogun (1991-2000) High quality build, rugged off-road ability and reliable. The Shogun is like a Range Rover but more reliable. A flood of imports has increased choice and softened prices.

Most economical: 2.5TD Best used buy: 2.8 TD Long wheelbase with GLS trim.

Buy from: Specialist importer/ 4x4 dealer but must have history. UsedCarExper t.com buyers checks: 1 1 Price: A year 2000 2.5 TD with 80,000 miles should be around pounds 2,682-pounds 3,250.