Trying to decide on new 250 series or 150 series

[Steve_B]

Hi all,

Apologies if similar has been asked already or if this might be posted in the wrong forum - I had a scan back through more recent posts but couldn’t find anything.

I have a 2007 commercial 120 series which I love, but I think it’s probably wise to start thinking about upgrading. I’m trying to decide between the new 250 series at around €60k for the commercial, or a two or three year old 150 series which would probably cost around €45k-€50k.

I’ve read some peoples concerns about the engine size on the new 250 series, but it would be good to hear any further thoughts you guys might have on the two options above.

Thanks!

 

[Juddian]

If you can get the new model for circa 10 or 15k euros more, to me thats no contest, new model it would be...which also gives you the chance to fully rustproof it with a spotlessly clean chassis and underbody making the job more effective for longer and far easier than something thats already seen 2 or 3 winters.

Regarding the engine size of the 250, its the same engine as fitted to 150 after around 2016 (later modified around 2020 if i recall correctly) and some Hiluxs too, can't say as i've seen mile long queues of frustrated motorists stuck behind any of those.
I think this underpowered engine thing has become a bit of a throwaway line with some testers afraid to voice a contrary opinion, personally i'd rather the larger swept volume per cylinder of a 4 pot than 2 more cylinders for the same capacity which won't have that stump pulling torque from tickover which our Toyotas do...obvious they're comparing unfavourably with a rivals products...assuming the crankshaft stays in one piece or the umpteen other likely faults don't render the alternative a workshop queen.

Top Gear tested the obvious alternatives including the new 250 offroad a few months ago and i recall in the write up they didn't find it underpowered and they confirm what all of us here know, that the Toyota 4 pot Diesels we use are so torquey and responsive to throttle input that they are simply a pleasant drive whether on or off the road.

 

[AndycruiserguyLomas]

Believe me the 250 is not underpowered in any way. True it doesn't have 3ltr LR defender lugging power but it's not slow. I was driving mine yesterday and was impressed with the way it goes. I'm just hoping the coarse sounding engine quietens down with some miles on it, although it is fundamentally the same engine as the 150.

Personally I think the 250 is better in every way than a late model 150, it has a presence about it with a breakaway from the 90-120-150 evolution image.

.which also gives you the chance to fully rustproof it with a spotlessly clean chassis

Which is exactly what I have done. All the underneath has 3 extra coats of paint on it ( including wheel arch removal and paint under there). Inside the chassis treated end to end with Bilt Hamber and the remaining Bilt was sprayed on all forward facing surfaces. It should last longer than the average 250 I think.

I will keep at it with the Bilt products as I am quite impressed so far.

 

[Steve_B]

Thanks for the input folks. Good to hear the positive feedback on the 250.

If you can get the new model for circa 10 or 15k euros more, to me thats no contest, new model it would be...which also gives you the chance to fully rustproof it with a spotlessly clean chassis and underbody making the job more effective for longer and far easier than something thats already seen 2 or 3 winters.

I'm leaning towards agreement with you. The second hand market seems to have gone crazy in recent years with the prices for both options so close.

That's an issue with my 120 and I wish I had the underside sprayed when I got it. It'll be the first thing I get done with whatever I get next!

Personally I think the 250 is better in every way than a late model 150, it has a presence about it with a breakaway from the 90-120-150 evolution image.

While the 150 took a while to grow on me, I'm immediately drawn to the 250. Great looking motor!