Review written on 8/1964.
Durack is in a unique position with the Tidewater. The Minivan segment rules the everyone else market. While the Avocet is the worst vehicle in the segment. Where does the Tidewater fit between these two extremes? Should consumer celebrate Durack's new Minivan? Or is this just another underachieving vehicle in the Minivan segment?
We brought the Durack Tidewater out to the track expecting the worst. And boy were we surprised. While the Tidewater isn't the fastest Minivan, it is certainly as good as most Minivan out on the market today. We thought the 75 hp @ 2169RPMs 2162 cc I4 engine was a good fit for this model. We were able to top out at 61 mph and on the strip we did a Not Applicable. We found that with 147 lb-ft of torque this machine can tow an impressive 22 lbs. While impressed the Tidewater isn't perfect on the track. But it's still good enough for most people. There is not much to say about the Durack Tidewater when it comes to handling. As a Minivan it's below average. As an everyday driver it'll do its job. In summation the Tidewater is mundane.
While the Durack Tidewater won't win any awards, It won't turn heads, and it certainly doesn't have a wow factor. The Tidewater does have a very well design interior. It may not be top end, but it is more than enough for long trips and everyday drivers. It makes you feel good about life. Without feeling pompous.
Inside the Durack Tidewater it feels like they could add an extra row of seats. There is enough room to even lay down, which is amazing! The 83 cu-ft of cargo and passenger space ensures that you always have plenty of room to do whatever it is you need to do. And that makes us happy.
The workmanship put into the Durack Tidewater is unparalleled in this market. From its hand finished panelling to ultrahigh quality materials the Tidewater is truly a work of art that should last a life time. It seems Durack has perfected the perfect.
The Durack Tidewater is a reliable car that we would trust our dear old grandmother with. These things are almost bulletproof.
While the Durack Tidewater will not win any awards for its fuel consummation. Its 20.0 mpg is better than most vehicles in its class. This means more money in your wallet and a happier long term experience. Durack did a good job in this respect.
In some sense the Durack Tidewater reminds us of an over protective parent. One that wraps you in damage proof forcefield that prevents all interaction with the outside world. While the Tidewater isn't that safe. It is still quite comforting to know that nothing can hurt you.
When it comes down to it, the Durack Tidewater is one of the best Minivan on the market. For almost everyone on the looking for a Minivan, you won't find a much better vehicle than the Tidewater. It testing team was astonished by the results. We give it our total and complete recommendation.