Tough choice on what to use ,buy for towing our beloved boats around. I have just brought a older model 2007 Ranger to replace an even older model Surf 91 2.4 lts Manual 5 speed. Sold the Surf for $500.00  less than I brought it for 12 yrs ago. Only used 4wd Low range due to its lack of power towing the boat up the boat ramp. Never had any speeding tickets with or without the boat so that has to be a bonus. We also have another vehicle for the family type trips and the wife has got to get to work. So get something she wants to drive to work while you are out fishing very important,  Happy Wife Happy Life. 

The other good thing about a Ute is they have a proper chassi and designed for towing. Not sure about some Suvs and cars.

Don’t listen to the ute propaganda, a landcruiser will tow better, ride better, 4wd better and be better for your family... plus all your stuff is inside the vehicle not outside... tools bikes etc...

The first Prados were referred to as Landcruiser 2's. Lighter built than previous landcruisers. The running gear was pretty much Hilux running gear. They retained the beam axles but changed to coil sprung. Later models changed to IFS.

Just to clarify, I wasn’t calling anyone a propagandist, just saying when it comes to utes it’s seems like it’s trendy to have one, and they are the shizz in every way. Half of them are not even 4wd...
A year ago I had to make the same decision, a tradesperson that wanted a vehicle for work, towing and family that was comfortable on long trips.
Having my tools on the back of a Ute just wasn’t an option, and when u put a lid on a ute u just can’t fit much in. As mentioned earlier I like as much gear as possible inside the vehicle.
Camry/Prado whatever u like to call it, for us was the best choice for us and it’s a 7 seater
Only my opinion, not knocking utes (to much) but I do think they are overrated a little bit... fashion accessory for builders 😀

I have a couple of questions along the same vein but more along the lines of FWD vs RWD regards traction on a motorhome.

I have a manual 2WD Colorado with a hard lid. I love it. Great for holidays, fishing, towing and general yard work. It could be a workhorse if need-be, or it can be a no drama commuter. You cant do that with a station wagon unless you want to wreck it. Thats why I am an urban ute owner.

Iv got a vw Amarok. 2.0 manual. Owned it for about 4 years now and it hasnt missed a beat. Tows my ht like its not even there. Gets close to a 1000 kms out of a tank of gas out on open road. Drives beautifully. Im a builder so its essential to have tints and big tyres fitted.

I had to replace my ageing 350km Mazda Atenza wagon last year, 

This is fun. Ill put my oar in. I cant understand why so many buy a wellside ute, when a flat deck does the same job much better - because, can - put flat panels on the back, and use it as a workbench - and its high so much easier getting stuff on and off - and can carry loads of stuff like sand and potting mix.