Late model CRD 3.0l PATROL owner here. I have read the first and last page of this thread. Here is my 2 cents worth....
First up when people say they are gutless they're right.(lots of new factory turbo diesels are) Out of the box power wise they are a heap of junk, i very nearly got rid of mine due to the frustrating lack of power.
You will hear lots of horror stories but as far as I am aware and all the Patrol forums on the net, the reported failure rate and problems of the CRD patrol engine is actually fewer than most modern day diesels. Overall, They're actually very well built and are a strong and reliable unit.
A few simple and relatively inexpensive mods can turn it into (not a powerhouse) but a good and very livable with 4WD and tow vehicle. 100% glad I kept it now. It's night and day now to compare it power wise before mods. If I wanted, It will light up 33s on the road now 😎.
ECU REMAP - $1000
3" exhaust - $800
Dawes or Tillix valve - $300 ish
Upgraded intercooler - $500 - $1500
Intake and airbox models $500
Catchcan, egr block, boost and egt gauges - $500
It can and will tow your camper no worries. 👍 I probably wouldn't like to regularly put 3 tonne behind it (never tried) but most campers come in well under that anyways. We tow our fully loaded Jayco Eagle, with the Patrol also loaded up. It will easily sit on 110 all day long if needed.
The PATROL with a few off-road mods is also an absolute weapon off-road. All legal mods like 2" lift, 33" decent tyres, diff lock on the front and the Patrol will go further more easily than most other 4wds out there. Easily better than the 4wd Utes we use for work.
As for a cruiser 200... sure I'd love one, but unless I was buying new $$$$ or a low klm model say under 50000 I'd steer clear, they suffer badly from chocked up intake.. google it
76 series dual cab or wagon would be awesome too and I would definitely have one, but yeah, very $$$ for what you get. (Maybe the next car if I'm allowed)
Prado would be the pick of the soccer mums cars. The rest I'm not too fussed with. They're probably some very good vehicles, just not up my alley.
It's horses for courses really, lots of choice, all have their pros and cons.
I'm happy with my Patrol now, and have no intention to try to upgrade. Set one up right and you won't be disappointed.