FRONTAL PROTECTION steel or aluminium, and there are impact on vehicle performance and fuel even some plastic models on the economy. SPEAKING of bullbars, if any night market such as those manufactured driving is on the cards, you really need by SmartBar. A well-designed and No matter what material you opt for, to have one fitted to your vehicle. An built steel bullbar will offer the best ensure the bullbar protects the front- animal strike on an unprotected vehicle protection, but there is a weight end of your vehicle as much as possible, can cause all sorts of damage, destroying penalty. And while aluminium bars including the cooling system and the cooling system, breaking the are generally not as strong as steel headlights. headlights and even bending steering ones, they are lighter, which has components, leaving the vehicle and its benefits in terms of less wear and tear Most bullbar manufacturers also occupants stranded and potentially in a on vehicle components (suspension and produce compatible under-vehicle life-threatening situation if driving in a tyres, for example), less of an effect protection systems, designed to protect remote area. on vehicle handling and less of an vulnerable mechanical components such as those related to the suspension and Most bullbars are manufactured from steering systems. NIGHT DRIVING: DO AND DON’T DO DON’T 1Upgrade your 1Drive at night vehicle’s lighting when tired system 2Drive too fast for 2Fit frontal and the terrain and the under-vehicle conditions protection 3Use spot beams in 3Plan your trip to closed-in terrain avoid night driving where possible 4Stare at oncoming lights (target 4Expect the fixation) unexpected 5Skimp on quality 5Dip lights early for lighting or oncoming vehicles protection gear 4x4Australia.com.au 101
Wildlife can hop out of the darkness just about anywhere, but there are some places where animals are more likely to be lurking than others such as at creek crossings or where there is decent-sized DRIVING TECHNIQUES EVEN if you have equipped your vehicle with the best possible lighting system and ample frontal protection, you still need to be super- attentive when driving at night to protect you, your vehicle, wildlife and roaming stock. On open roads, you want to look as far ahead as your lighting will permit, but also be wary of what is in the middle- and near-distance. Most animal strikes will come as a surprise, with kangaroos, for example, hopping out of the scrub on the side of the road right in front of you, not giving you enough chance to take evasive action. For this reason, it’s important to adjust your speed to suit conditions; if it’s dark and there are a lot of animals about, you really need to slow down to give yourself the best chance of avoiding an impact. SPOT OR SPREAD Wildlife can hop out of the darkness just about anywhere, With spotlights and light but there are some places where bars, you can adjust the lighting to best suit the animals are more likely to be terrain you’re driving. lurking than others, such as at creek crossings or where there is decent-sized foliage near the side of the road. When you happen upon these scenarios, back off a little and always expect the unexpected. Knowing when and how to best use your vehicle’s lighting system will make it easier to see where you are driving. You probably won’t want to use a pair of spot beams when driving in closed-in terrain with lots of foliage about, for example, as bright, focussed points of light shining into the bush just ahead of you can be distracting. This is when a combination of spot driving lights and a spread-beam light bar can come in handy, as you could switch off the driving lights and rely solely on the spread beam of the light bar, which would be much better suited to this scenario – then, when the terrain opens again, switch the spot beams back on. 102 4x4Australia.com.au
HOW TO – NIGHT DRIVING Powerful spot beams can also be This is called target fixation and it’s real, might find it difficult to see hand signals problematic on highways where there are so avoid it. at night. a lot of reflective road signs about; as the road signs are lit up they can distract you When driving at night on twisting TIRED EYES and make it difficult to see what is on the roads, anticipate what may be around the road right in front of you, so you might corner, whether that be an unexpected I’LL leave the last word on night driving need to dip them. Some driving lights animal, a downed tree or an oncoming to 4X4 Australia Editor Matt Raudonikis offer light-output adjustment, so you can vehicle. Again, adjust your speed to suit who, when I pitched this story to him, still have some of the benefit of improved conditions. offered this sage advice: “Don’t fall light output without the blinding asleep when driving.” reflections off road signs. The TFT screens and instrument panels in many modern vehicles can If you’ve been driving all day and you Always remember to dip your high- also be distracting and, if set too bright, find yourself still driving at night, there beam and/or driving lights for oncoming can make it difficult to see the road is a fair chance you’ll be tired, so make traffic. Try to anticipate when oncoming ahead at night. While most screens and sure you keep hydrated and eat healthy vehicles are likely to see your lights, instrument panels have auto-dimming foods. No matter how tempting, try to and dip to low-beam beforehand so the night modes, sometimes it’s better to avoid food and beverages with high oncoming driver isn’t blinded by all switch them off completely. Likewise, sugar and caffeine content; while sugary those banks of bright LEDs. If you’re make sure your rear-view mirrors are treats and buckets full of coffee may give cresting a small hill, or driving around angled so that the light from vehicles you a short burst of energy and a bend, you should be able to see an behind you is not shining in your eyes. attentiveness, when the effects wear off oncoming vehicle’s light beams before you’ll feel more tired than you did you see the lights, so you will know If you find yourself in a situation before, making it difficult to focus on the when to dip your lights. Also dip when where you’re driving off-road at night – task at hand, which is to safely reach following other vehicles; we all know and yes, some people actually like doing your destination without damaging you, how difficult it can be to focus on the this, whereas I reckon once the sun is your vehicle, other road users, and road ahead when you have the high-beam down you’re better off sitting around wildlife and stock. Remember, plan your lights of a following vehicle shining in the campfire with a chilled article – you trip, equip your vehicle with the right your eyes from your rear-view mirrors. will need to have as much light flooding gear, stay focussed, and drive to the the immediate vicinity as possible. conditions. Don’t stare at the headlights of Equipping your vehicle with under- oncoming vehicles, instead look to where vehicle lighting is one way to achieve BEST OF you want to go, on your side of the road. this, or you could make sure your spotter BOTH We’re prone to steering towards what has a powerful torch to help guide you we look at, so if you’re looking at an safely over obstacles. You should also On the highway, driving oncoming vehicle you might drive into it! have a reliable way to communicate with lights illuminate the your spotter, such as a UHF radio, as you distance, while light bars brighten the sides of the road and the critters hiding within. 104 4x4Australia.com.au
TECH 6 The RTR Tech 6 wheel design is inspired by beadlock rims, which adds a rugged off-road WHEEL look. With their aggressive stance, they make a bold statement that speaks to your love RTR TECH 6 wheels of adventure. Whether you’re parked at the 20” x 9” (+0 offset) trailhead or cruising down the highway, the 275/55R20 tyres RTR Tech 6 wheels are sure to turn heads and set your vehicle apart from the rest. AVAILABLE TO ALL, FEATURES NOT FOR EVERYONE • Fits all 2019+ PX3 & Next-Gen Rangers • Hub-centric design The RTR Evo 6 Wheel will give your 2019+ • Available in Satin Black and Satin Charcoal Ford Ranger a sporty off-road racing inspired • Flow Forming Technology – manufactured appearance. Designed and developed in conjunction with Vaughn Gittin Jr. the Evo for weight savings and strength 6 Wheel features a unique design that adds • Lift may be required for some applications an aggressive appearance, so your Ranger Available in sizes: looks like its tearing up the track or trail, even when sitting still. 17” x 9” (+0 or +30 offset) FEATURES 18” x 9” (+0 or +30 offset) • Fits all 2019+ PX3 & Next-Gen Rangers 20” x 9” (+0 or +30 offset) • Hub-centric design • Available in Satin Black and Satin Charcoal EVO 6 • Flow Forming Technology – manufactured WHEEL for weight savings and strength • Lift may be required for some applications Available in sizes: 17” x 9” (+0 or +30 offset) 18” x 9” (+0 or +30 offset) 20” x 9” (+0 or +30 offset) RTR EVO 6 wheels 18” x 9” (+30 offset) 285/65R18 tyres mustangmotorsport.com.au 03 9753 5799 10 HAYWARD RD, FERNTREE GULLY VIC 3156
GEAR TESTED – FRONT RUNNER SLIMLINE II ROOF RACK CRUISER’S NEW RACK TIME TO FIX MY LEAST FAVOURITE PART ABOUT MY FJ CRUISER, BY THROWING THE FACTORY ROOF RACK IN THE BIN AND INSTALLING A FRONT RUNNER SLIMLINE II UNIT I HAVE made no secret about how much I dislike the and ready to ship, which is half the battle these days. factory roof rack fitted to my FJ Cruiser. It’s noisy, ugly and pretty much useless at carrying loads, So, what did I learn about installing the Front Runner unless you spend a fortune on bits and bobs trying to upgrade it. Rather than put lipstick on a pig, I Slimline II roof rack to my FJ Cruiser on my own? First decided I wanted to start from scratch and fit a flat tray- style roof rack to maximise storage space in what is a mistake was trying to do this on my own. The job itself fairly small four-wheel drive. isn’t hard, but having a helping hand guide you through Why Front Runner? Well, I’ve installed a few of them WORDS AND PHOTOS EVAN SPENCE in the past and found them to be super-high-quality. the instructions (which you really need to read), and Secondly, they look fantastic on the FJ. Another key reason for choosing Front Runner was the large number then lifting the platform into position is required. Still, of cool accessories that are available, ranging from slide-out tables, recovery board mounts and a barbecue I managed to do it solo in my driveway, but I’d never do grill. I now have quite the wish list for future upgrades now that I’ve installed the roof rack. It was also in stock that again. Lesson learned. HIGH LIFE Secondly, you need really good quality silicon to You bewdy, seal the roof before installing the rack, and this isn’t the FJ’s bulky included. Make sure you grab a tube of the good stuff OE roof rack from your hardware store before spinning spanners. is in the bin. Tool-wise, you don’t need much more than a few basics Now for the like Allen keys, ratchet spanners and, in my case, a T40 accessories ... torx bit to remove the factory roof rack. That was the 106 4x4Australia.com.au
RATHER THAN PUT ASSEMBLY LIPSTICK ON A PIG, I DECIDED TO START FROM The Slimline SCRATCH AND FIT A FLAT- II tray comes STYLE ROOF RACK in a flatpack with assembly instructions. It’s an easy enough task to put together with basic tools. RATED RRP $2030 AVAILABLE FROM: www.frontrunneroutfitters.com WE SAY: A high-quality roof rack that will last the distance. Looks terrific and has loads of optional accessories available to enhance your camping trips. second step in the process; the first being to ensure you bit of wind noise, but it’s not an annoying howl. My fuel clean the heck out of your roof before installing the new economy has risen slightly post-installation, going from roof rack, especially a white roof like the FJ Cruiser. 11.0L/100km to 12.2L/100km, but I fully expected that. With the factory roof rack removed and put on top of Next up, I’ll be installing a range of Front Runner my rubbish bin where it belongs, I set about building accessories to the roof rack, and testing them out over the rails that secure the platform to the roof. These are the next few months. Stay tuned for a full review on the a two-piece unit, so you need to bolt them together first. Front Runner Slimline II roof rack and accessories after I applied a liberal amount of silicon around the captive I put them through their paces, with plenty of touring holes in the roof, and then bolted the now-assembled and camping trips planned. rails down with the supplied hardware – which is of very good quality. DIY + 1 The next step was to assemble the Slimline II tray Fitting the which comes as a flatpack – and installing a Front Front Runner Runner roof rack is kind of like putting together an rack and rails Ikea DIY pack but for four-wheel drivers. Find the two was tricky. A end pieces, arrange the slats to where they need to second set of be, and bolt it all together. It takes a bit of time, but hands would it’s certainly not what I’d call hard and I’d absolutely have been recommend you have a crack. appreciated. Now it was time to instal the supplied wind deflector to the front of the tray and bolt it on the mounting rails. A helping hand sure would have been appreciated here, but I’m not a patient man. So once the tray was in position, it was simply a case of bolting it to the rails ... and job done. I’m stoked with how it came out. Not only does it look great, it’s not loud at all on the highway. Sure, there is a 4x4Australia.com.au 107
GEAR TESTED – OZTRAIL TARKINE 1400 ROOFTOP TENT HIGH AND RRP DRY Tarkine 1400 RTT $1499.99 Tarkine 1400 ‘Annex’ $379.99 THE TARKINE IS A TRADITIONAL FOLD- Blockout 2m x 2.5m Awning $319.99 OUT ROOFTOP TENT FROM OZTRAIL THAT IS PACKED WITH CLEVER FEATURES AND IS AVAILABLE FROM: www.oztrail.com.au OH-SO COMFORTABLE WORDS AND PHOTOS DEAN MELLOR WE SAY: Top-quality rooftop tent that is easy to set up, is very comfortable and has a low profile when RATED packed down. W ITH all the rain we’ve had on the east coast of Australia tent’s base; I then lifted the tent on to the crossbars and attached it over the past couple of years, the thought of setting up using the supplied brackets, nuts and bolts; once secure, I opened the family tent or rolling out the swags in yet another the tent up, attached the ladder and put the mattress back in. I muddy-brown puddle has put me off camping a bit, but then closed it and fitted the PVC transit cover.The whole process with this new OZtrail Tarkine 1400 fitted to my Ranger, only took an hour or so and I managed to do it on my Pat Malone; we can stay high and dry when the weather turns foul. although, it would be much quicker (and easier) with two or three people in on the act. The Tarkine is the smallest and lightest rooftop tent in the OZtrail range, measuring 2.4m x 1.43m x 1.3m when open and weighing in One of the things I really like about the Tarkine is the design of at 59kg. I could have fitted it to the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform the telescopic-retracting ladder, which simply pulls out and locks above the Ranger’s cabin, but this would have limited me to on-road in place at any given height, up to 2.3m in length. Once closed and driving only (see ‘Weighty Issue’ breakout), so I instead mounted it folded flat against the tent for travelling, it has a very low profile, so on a pair of Yakima LockNLoad crossbars on the canopy. it doesn’t protrude excessively like some other rooftop tent ladders. In fact, the packed height of the Tarkine is just 31cm, including OZtrail recommends the Tarkine be fitted by a professional 4WD the bit where the ladder sticks up, which is around a foot in the old aftermarket store or a roof-rack expert, but I opted to fit it myself, language. Packed height is an important consideration when fitting and this proved pretty straightforward. Once unpacked, I removed a rooftop tent, as the lower the overall profile the less affect it will the mattress so I could bolt the supplied rails to the underside of the 108 4x4Australia.com.au
WEIGHTY ISSUE THERE was a fair bit of messing around prior to deciding which OZtrail rooftop tent (RTT) I was going to fit to my Ford Ranger, and that’s because the PXIII Ranger, like many modern vehicles without traditional roof gutters, doesn’t have a huge roof-load capacity at 100kg. I have a Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform on the Ranger, fitted via Rhino’s Backbone system, and this set-up weighs 27kg, so I can only put 73kg up on the platform. If driving off-road, Rhino recommends this capacity be divided by 1.5, so the actual roof-load capacity then drops to 48.6kg. The Tarkine 1400 is the lightest of the OZtrail RTT range, weighing in at 59kg. As a big chunk of my driving is off-road, I couldn’t fit the Tarkine to the Pioneer Platform. That meant it would have to go on the aluminium canopy, which has a dynamic roof-load capacity of 100kg, and this is equipped with a pair of Yakima LockNLoad crossbars that are also rated to carry 100kg. have on vehicle fuel consumption. always feel judged when setting up camp in a caravan park full of Once the Tarkine was secured to the canopy, I took the Ranger out onlookers.The process involves removing the strapped-down and zipped-on PVC transit cover, undoing a couple of tie-down straps that for a spin. On suburban streets I could immediately feel the extra secure the tent in place, extending the telescopic ladder and pulling weight up top, but with the Ranger’s Tough Dog 300kg constant-load on it to unfold the tent.The attached fly opens up with the tent, and springs in the rear, it handles that weight well. In fact, ride quality the straps that secure it can be easily adjusted if necessary. is actually better with a bit of extra weight on-board, especially when driving over speed bumps or other road-surface irregularities, The tent’s front and rear doors are protected by the fly, while the and the 41mm foam-cell shock absorbers ensure there’s plenty of side windows have generous awnings.The poles that hold the fly and damping control so the back-end doesn’t bounce around like a pogo awnings in place are durable anodised spring-steel items that are stick. Admittedly, body roll is more noticeable when cornering, but easy to attach, and there’s enough coverage that you can leave the it doesn’t feel excessive. At highway speeds, performance is blunted window and door flaps open in inclement weather to maintain good slightly by the extra wind resistance, but I’m never really in a hurry ventilation, of which there is plenty … when loaded up for a weekend away. As well as the large doors at either end, the large side windows The first test of the Tarkine rooftop tent was a family camping and small vents on either side up near the roof, there is also a weekend in a caravan park on the south coast of NSW. Considering ‘SkyMesh’ roof panel that can be opened to let heat out.This panel my lack of experience with the Tarkine, I found set-up to be has a flyscreen and a corresponding clear panel in the fly, allowing very quick and easy, which was just as well because I reckon you you to look up at the night sky as you drift off to sleep. Of course, VALUE SET-UP OZtrail’s RTT, awning and annexe combo costs just over $2000. 4x4Australia.com.au 109
TESTED – OZTRAIL TARKINE 1400 ROOFTOP PROTECTED BLOCKOUT AWNING the doors and windows have flyscreens fitted too, and shy types can rest assured that it is difficult to see into the tent when these are The awning AS well as the Tarkine, I fitted an OZtrail zipped closed, even with the removable LED strip light turned on. has impressive BlockOut 2m x 2.5m awning to the Ranger, That strip light has a long enough cord to be plugged into the USB sun- and and added optional front and side walls. The outlet I have fitted at the rear of the Ranger’s tub, but there is no rain-protection awning itself sets up like pretty much every switch, so you can’t turn the light on and off from inside the tent.The technology. other side awning on the market, providing easiest solution to this conundrum would be to run the strip light off quick and easy shade. Like the Tarkine a handheld powerbank, so you could unplug it from inside the tent 1400, the material used for the Blockout is when you want ‘lights out’. 280gsm ripstop polycotton canvas treated with OZtrail’s BlockOut technology, which The material used in the Tarkine is a 280gsm ripstop polycotton is claimed to block up to 95 per cent of light canvas that ensures good insulation and breathability.The seams to reduce temperature under the awning by are all double-stitched and the zippers and flyscreens are of a high up to 10°C. It also has a claimed 1500mm quality.The fly is made from waterproof 210D Polyoxford flysheet waterhead rating so it will keep you dry and it too looks to be a decent bit of kit, with quality straps and when it’s bucketing down. buckles for adjustment. The BlockOut side walls and the front wall For someone more accustomed to sleeping in a swag, I must admit are made from the same 280gsm polycotton I could soon get used to the Tarkine’s 60mm-thick high-density canvas, and they attach easily and quickly foam mattress – it’s sooo comfy.The mattress has a removable and via Velcro tabs and are pegged out at their washable luxe flannel cover, and it sits atop an anti-condensation respective bases. mat that is designed to allow airflow to help prevent moisture build-up and mould.The mattress itself is 2.4m long and 1.4m wide, With the Tarkine rooftop tent and the so even tall campers will be happy campers. awning both set up – and one side wall and the front wall fitted – there is loads of On this first camp with the Tarkine, I didn’t get the chance to weather protection down the passenger sample the comfort of the foam mattress – my wife Renata and I side of the Ranger. swagged it under the Ranger’s awning – but the following morning, we were greeted by two beaming and well-rested 12-year-olds who PROS AND CONS PROS CONS 1Quick and easy 1No mobility once set-up set-up 2Built-in fly 2Effect on vehicle 3Comfortable handling mattress 3Increased fuel consumption 4Plenty of ventilation 4Remove cover to fit annexe 5Great ladder design 5No switch for LED strip light 110 4x4Australia.com.au
reported that the Tarkine was “the best tent ever”. As they made the tie-down straps. Once you reckon you have it all packed down their way down the ladder for breakfast, I noted how they didn’t put nice and tight, throw over the PVC transit cover, zip it up and strap a second thought into their descent, thanks to the relaxed angle and it down. It should be noted that you have to completely remove the stability of the ladder, and its wide rungs. transit cover to attach the annexe via the sail track, but if you haven’t used the annexe you can save some time by leaving the transit After brekky, I decided to set up the optional annexe, which cover hanging; or in the case of my Ranger, stowing it between the simply attaches via a sail track and a couple of zips on the underside underside of the tent base and the canopy’s lift-up side door. of the Tarkine, and is then pegged into the ground at all four corners. You could use this annexe as an extra sleeping area or do what we A few weeks later, I got to sample the comfort of the Tarkine’s did, and use it as a change room and for luggage storage. It has a high-density mattress for myself.Tent set-up and pack-away was generous 2.3m x 1.7m floor space, three large fly-screened doors and much quicker the second time around due to the fact I knew what a tough (and removable) 600gsm PVC floor with high sides to keep I was doing … and I didn’t have an audience.The tent alone only water out. Another internal door allows you to access your vehicle, takes a couple of minutes to set up, and I can even have the awning which in the case of my Ranger’s set-up means access to the fridge attached and pegged down in another couple of minutes, which is through the canopy’s side door. great if you need to make camp under threatening skies. If you need to pack up the tent when it’s still wet, it’s advisable to dry it out as The large external doors of the annexe can either be rolled up or, soon as possible to prevent mould. with tent poles, used as awnings to provide additional shelter. As I have also fitted an OZtrail 2m x 2.5m awning (see ‘Blockout Awning’ I’ve had the Tarkine on top of the Ranger for just over two breakout) to the Ranger, with optional side and front walls, I now months now and, in that time, fuel consumption has increased from have more than enough shelter for camping in crappy weather. 12.6L/100km to 13.4L/100km. It’s less than I would have expected, but I’ll remove the Tarkine between camps rather than leave it out in When it was time to go home, packing up the Tarkine for the first the weather as fitment isn’t all that difficult or time-consuming. time took a little longer than set-up.The process involves removing bedding, pulling in the cord for the LED strip light and closing the The OZtrail Tarkine 1400 costs $1500, which I think is excellent flyscreens, windows and doors.You then use the ladder to flip the value for money for a good quality, well-designed and super- tent over in to its closed position, retract said ladder into its transit comfortable rooftop tent, while the optional Tarkine 1400 ‘Annex’ is position atop the tent, make your way around the tent to ensure all $380. If you’re after a rooftop tent, this one should definitely be on the tent and fly material is tucked away neatly, and then tighten your radar. MATTRESS Anti- condensation mat under mattress. DOOR PRIZE Internal door of annexe for vehicle access. 4x4Australia.com.au 111
FLASHLUBE DIESEL FLASHLUBE FLASHLUBE CONDITIONER HIGH TEMP GREASE MOLY GREASE FLASHLUBE OIL STABILISER PROMOTE YOUR AUSTRALIAN MADE PRODUCTS HERE 0410 221 434 Scott Crowley Brand Sales Manager 4x4 Australia E [email protected] PROMOTE YOUR Scott Crowley AUSTRALIAN MADE Brand Sales Manager 4x4 Australia E [email protected] PRODUCTS HERE ASK US HOW M 0410 221 434
THE AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE 4X4 MARKET HAS A RICH AND PROUD HERITAGE. FOR YEARS LOCAL DESIGN, INGENUITY AND MANUFACTURING HAS CREATED MANY FANTASTIC FOUR WHEEL DRIVE RELATED PRODUCTS. AT 4X4 AUSTRALIA WE ARE PROUD TO SHOWCASE AND SUPPORT TRULY AUSTRALIAN ENGINEERED AND MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS - HERE ARE A FEW AUSSIE MANUFACTURERS KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE, HELPING TO KEEP THE LOCAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY THRIVING AND KEEPING PEOPLE IN REAL JOBS. SO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL AUSSIE MADE PRODUCTS. THIS MONTH WE TALK TERRAIN TAMER Describe the Australian What do you consider to be What is next for an Australian 4WD industry Australian made (engineering, raw company like yours exporting to the material etc)? world? That’s an interesting question. Probably in a word, I’d say thriving. The automotive car manufacturing This is a great question because we have to play to As we roll out consistently new innovation each industry hasn’t been able to survive in Australia, our strengths. When innovation is developed in year, it becomes about the brand and protecting the with factories closing down, but the 4WD Australia, but possibly manufactured overseas, brand. Aftermarket industry, has thrived. we’re still driving Australian jobs, brands, Customers are expecting the Terrain Tamer brand to I think for a long time, we were underestimated by businesses and the economy. be innovating all the time, because that’s what the wider automotive community for innovation, but For example, in many cases, our products are they’re used to, so we have developed processes & we’ve come into our own and shown the world what designed in Australia, by our development team, so systems to have in place to keep those expectations is possible. even though formation of the product didn’t happen going, and to make sure our brand is embedded in When you attend international shows in places like in Australia, we’d definitely consider it Australian. consumers priorities when searching for 4WD Europe or Africa, you can look around and see It is has become harder to manufacture from end to solutions. another 6 or so Australian brands setting up, and end in Australia as many of these companies have something we should be very proud of. Much like simply closed. I’ve also seen iron ore shipped to our the surfing community, the Australian 4WD industry manufacturing plant in Japan and turned into steel. lead in many areas. That steel has then become Terrain Tamer bearings, and then re-exported to us in Australia before going What makes Australian 4WD all around the world. The end product might have industry so successful overseas been manufactured in Japan, but it’s an Australian product. A lot of it really comes back to the environment that we operate within. In Australia we have not only What is your most successful some of the harshest conditions in the world, but I Australian made product? believe Toyota achieve something like 16 of the required 18 testing environments for new vehicles, here. I think too, that because of how isolated Australia has traditionally been, and still is now, from the rest of the world, companies have had to think for themselves and be more creative when solving problems, which offers a uniqueness to our innovation. How many overseas locations does Springs have definitely evolved incredibly over a Terrain Tamer have? long period of time and now lead the international market. But we also have some niche products like We now have 7 (soon to be 8) locations outside of our air filter insert, that was released last year. It’s Australia, the most recent of which is in Cape Town, never going to sell in the same volume but it leads and was opened in 2021, during the pandemic. the category in innovation and until we released it, Each of our overseas locations serve as launching nothing like that had been seen before in the pads for the wider regions, which includes a international community. network of over 50 stockists throughout Africa, Seats and seatbelts are popular. Central Asia, South America and Europe. There are Exhaust Systems are growing in relevance also. very few regions that we don’t have a presence now.
GEAR AERPRO AMHXD3 NAVIGATION PRODUCT TESTS & NEW STUFF MODULE WITH HEMA MAPS EFS MRP 2.5 MONOTUBE REMOTE Aerpro and Hema Maps have partnered to RESERVOIR SUSPENSION offer an in-dash solution for on- and off- road navigation. Developed in Australia This is a big update from suspension, with specifically for the Australian market, the recent announcement it has developed the Aerpro AMHXD3 integrates both on- a new range of monotube remote reservoir and off-road navigation to your vehicle’s suspensions to suit a range of four-wheel head-unit display. Connecting through the drives on the Australian market. The EFS crew Apple CarPlay USB port, this module is tells us they have developed the product with optimised for Aerpro Multimedia Receivers the brief of creating suspension that offers and compatible with aftermarket head the best performance and the smoothest ride units that support Apple CarPlay. Get they could come up with. As well as featuring reliable turn-by-turn street navigation height-adjustable struts for the front of your provided by HERE Technologies as well vehicle, the MRP 2.5 range is also adjustable as Hema Maps off-road navigation and for both 36 settings of rebound and 24 stages track information. With more than 100,000 of compression, meaning you can tailor the ride moderated listings and over 40,000 Hema qualities of the struts and shocks to suit the Maps verified points of interests including weight you are carrying and the conditions you campsites, caravan parks and more, you’ll are driving. They are also fully serviceable, with have all the information you need for your EFS dealers being able to rebuild and service next adventure. From remote areas to the units at recommended intervals. 4WD tracks, the purpose-built off-road RRP: Contact your local EFS dealer for pricing navigation tool features Hema Maps (phone: 1300 337 493) and offers high-fidelity mapping, track WEBSITE: www.efs4wd.com.au recording and online trip planning synced via the Hema Cloud. On-road navigation 114 4x4Australia.com.au is powered by HERE Technologies and provides interactive mapping, voice and visual guidance and traffic alerts (when connected) with Hema Maps POIs overlayed. Plus, with map updates available regularly, you’ll never get lost on or off the road. The Aerpro AMHXD3 Navigation Module is available to purchase directly from Hema’s web store at www. hemamaps.com or leading independent and major automotive retailers such as Autobarn, Supercheap Auto and Repco. RRP: $799.99 WEBSITE: aerpro.com
ROADSAFE 4WD SHOCK ABSORBERS Roadsafe is bringing a range of 4WD shock absorbers to the aftermarket, designed with enhanced performance in mind for those running up to a 50mm lift. Roadsafe tells us these shock absorbers have been tested locally to suit Australian conditions, with testing performed at a research and development facility in Victoria. Roadsafe 4WD shocks are available in nitrogen gas up to a 35mm bore, and foam cell up to a 40mm bore, and are backed up by a three- year/100,000km warranty for peace of mind. To get your hands on a set of Roadsafe 4WD shock absorbers, pop in to your local Burson Auto Parts store. WEBSITE: www.roadsafe.com.au REVOLUTION POWER SOLUTIONS 12-36V CONVERTER This is a neat solution for those needing to supply 36V power to an item from a single 12V battery. The most common application according to the Revolution Power Solutions team, is using the 12-36V converter to run a 36V electric trolling motor on a boat. This allows all loads, navigation and marine electronics to run from the 12V house battery, then simply convert the 12V power up to 36V to safely power the trolling motor. This also removes the need to have additional heavy batteries on-board to make 36V. Installation is a simple affair, with all ports labelled as well as mounting holes positioned at the base of the unit. RRP: $1098 WEBSITE: revolutionpoweraustralia.com.au ALU-CAB 180-DEGREE SHADOW AWNING Looking for a quality awning but don’t have the need for a full 270-degree unit? Take a look at the new 180-degree awning from Alu-Cab. These are available for both left- and right-hand-side fitment, and are built with the same strength and materials Alu-Cab uses in its larger 270-degree awnings (which are also available for those wanting maximum coverage). This is a freestanding awning which provides quick set-up and pack-down times. Features include aluminium construction, as well as 315gsm heat-reflective canvas, with the result being the Alu- Cab 180-degree awning provides 7.7m² of shade from the elements. Alu-Cab’s 180-degree Shadow awning is available Australia-wide from Ironman 4x4 dealers. RRP: $1990 WEBSITE: www.ironman4x4.com 4x4Australia.com.au 115
gear PRODUCT TESTS & NEW STUFF FRONT RUNNER STRATCHITS Front Runner believes it has created the ultimate tie-down strap, called a Stratchits. These clever tie-downs incorporate the benefits of a compact ratchet strap and a bungee cord in one unit, which are sold in a pack as pairs. These are the new and improved Stratchits, which have a larger stainless-steel carabiner to easily connect the tie-downs, as well as a Velcro tab to keep the straps neat once you have adjusted them in to position. Think of the Stratchits as a stretchy ratchet strap that is strong enough to secure loads, yet won’t damage gear like surfboards as they can absorb tension. Adjustable in size from 22 all the way up to 63 inches, Stratchits are perfect for securing big or small items to a roof rack or in the back of a ute. RRP: $49 WEBSITE: www.frontrunneroutfitters.com LIGHTFORCE VIPER LED LIGHT BARS Available now from Lightforce is a new range of LED light bars which are 40 per cent more affordable, 25 per cent lighter, and provide 25 per cent more output compared to previous models. The Viper line-up is made using premium-grade Osram Oslon LEDs, offering a warmer 5500K colour temp that is easier on your eyes compared to a bluer light output. All Viper LED lights from Lightforce have Gore breathers for protection against ingress and moisture, stainless-steel fixings for corrosion resistance, and are backed by a three-year warranty. There are 11 different-size LED light bars offered by Lightforce in the Viper series, ranging from six-inch single-row units right up to a massive 50-inch dual-row light bar. RRP: Depending on size WEBSITE: www.lightforce.com.au IRONMAN 4X4 FORD RANGER FENDER FLARES The latest release from Ironman 4x4 is a range of fender flares to suit the new Ford Ranger. Ironman 4x4’s fender-flare range suits XL, XLS, XLT and Wildtrak variants, complete with blind-spot parking-sensor additions. These fender flares extend the guard by 40 to 50mm and are easy to instal to factory screw holes as well as with the supplied 3M adhesive. There is also the option of selecting additional fender-flare extensions for those with an even wider track width, as well as being perfectly matched with Ironman 4x4’s range of bullbars (BBC/BBCD/BBP and Raid bullbars). These fender flares can be painted or fitted as supplied, and are covered by a 12-month warranty. RRP: $499 WEBSITE: www.ironman4x4.com 116 4x4Australia.com.au
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gear PRODUCT TESTS & NEW STUFF IRONMAN 4X4 RAID SIDE-STEPS FOR CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 Finding it difficult to jump into your Chevy Silverado 1500? Well, Ironman 4x4 has the solution, with its new Raid series side-steps made specifically for the Silverado 1500. Made from two-inch tubular steel, the Raid series side-steps are finished in a textured powder-coated finish for durability. There is also a bolt-on tread plate for extra grip, perfect for accessing the roof or just making it easier to get in the big Chevy. The Ironman 4x4 Raid side-steps are SRS side airbag-compatible, making them legal for use in Australia. RRP: $1098 WEBSITE: www.ironman4x4.com BIG RED LED WORK LAMPS Big Red LED automotive lighting has announced it has a new website, and as such decided to release a range of LED work lamps to celebrate. The aim was to develop a wide range of LED lights to use around your vehicle, that were high in performance and didn’t cost the world. The range of new LED work lamps from Big Red includes a four-inch square unit, a six-inch lamp and six-inch flush lamp, a 3.2-inch flush lamp, and 2.75-inch pod lamps and rock lights. As well as a wide range of LED work lamps, Big Red also released additional mounting accessories to allow for extra fitment options. RRP: POA WEBSITE: www.bigredgear.com.au OFFROAD ANIMAL FORD RANGER TORO BULLBAR A good-looking ute like the Ford Ranger needs a good-looking bullbar – and the team at Offroad Animal tells us they think they’ve made just that. Not only is it a good-looking unit, it’s also built to work with the wide range of technology Ford has incorporated in the new Ranger. Features include built-in high-lift jack points, integrated recovery points, and the bar is winch-compatible. Being a fully welded one-piece bar, the Offroad Animal engineers have crafted it in a way so it only sticks out 150mm from the front of the grille, meaning those with small garages should still be able to fit in. LED light bars can be fitted inside the bar for a streamline look, with the maximum size being a 22-inch light bar. Another neat touch is that a winch can be fitted after the bar without the need to remove it, saving time and money. RRP: $3450 (sans freight and fitting) WEBSITE: offroadanimal.com.au 118 4x4Australia.com.au
® XD134 ADDICT 2 MATTE BRONZE WITH RIDGE GRAPPLER TYRES ON VEHICLE XD Series wheels are legends in off-roading. Their style and performance have made them favorites for off-road racers, rock crawlers and mudders alike. The designs are race-proven and feature an unmatched combination of light weight and durability. XD849 - GRENADE 2 XD137 - FMJ COMING SOON DARK TINT XD840 SPY II XD846 - DOUBLE DUECE XD140 - RECON SATIN BLACK WITH COMING SOON MACHINE FACED DARK TINT kmcwheels 1 800 835 484 kmcwheels.com
MARCH READERS WANT TO SEE YOUR 4x4 RIGS PUBLISHED IN THE MAG? SEND US A PIC VIA OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! NICK SHEMMELD 2016 MITSUBISHI MQ TRITON For the price of the Triton, you can’t ask for a good, cheap and more reliable 4WD; it’s very capable and very underrated. Mods include an ARB Commercial bullbar; two-inch Old Man Emu suspension; TJM rear protection bar and side-steps; CSA Hawk rims with Hankook A/T tyres; I’ve removed the rear seat for space and fitted an ARB 75L fridge/freezer; an ARB Classic canopy housing a second battery set-up; and on the roof I run a 180amp fixed solar panel.The engine is stock with a FlashLube catchcan, and I’ve fitted a 3-inch DPF back exhaust system. It’s a pretty basic set-up, but simple is best. I’ve been to theVic High Country and Blue Rag Track; Dargo and surrounding area; done the Oodnadatta Track out to Lake Eyre and Marree; been through the Flinders Ranges including Blinman, Arkaroola and out to Coober Pedy as I enjoy opal fossicking; as well as the Grampians, Halls Gap, Broken Hill and Silverton. DANIEL SANTALUCIA 2022 FORD F-150 I finally received the F-150 in August 2022 after a seven- lithium and 2500W inverter; a GME XR370 UHF and month wait, with the intention of building a tough, capable Cel-Fi Go mobile booster; and more. tourer with enough comfort and space for the family and for solo trips. In the six months of building it, it has been on three Vic High Contry trips covering the Dargo and Corryong Mods include a four-inch BDS kit with Fox coil-overs and areas including Mount Pinnibar. Will be heading north rear airbag assists; 35-inch Geolandar X-AT tyres with Icon to Fraser Island next month for a two-week trip with the 18-inch rims; Addictive Desert Designs’ Stealth Fighter family and camper in tow. front bar with Warn Zeon 12K winch, Stedi 40-inch light bar and Teralume Industries amber fog lights; Morimoto ditch lights; Front Runner slimline roof rack; Borla exhaust; and a Leitner bed rack with XL gearpod, small gearpod and twin fuel containers. It also has a Drifta Stockton RTT on some trips.The rear tub has 1300mm drawers, slide-out fridge, spare-wheel holder and two-tonne jack.The rear wall has a bed rack with axe holder and 240V dual outlets. Other kits includes a Bushwakka 270° awning; Safiery Blue Heeler battery management system, 100amp/h 120 4x4Australia.com.au
4X4AUSTRALIA.COM.AU @4X4AUS @4X4AUSTRALIANMAG MARK JACKSON boost controller, 15.5psi and a 3-bar MAP sensor; Safari snorkel with a Donaldson cyclonic pre-cleaner on top; a Pioneer Rhino 2005 TOYOTA PRADO GXL backbone roof rack with a rear awning, shovel holder and a set of MaxTrax on top; and 17 x 8-inch Dynamic rims with Cooper Original owner with 520,000km on the clock. In terms of STT Pro tyres in a 265/70/R17 size. mods, the auto has been fitted with a Nomad heavy-duty valve body and an external trans cooler; and it has a two-inch Inside is a Kenwood double DIN head unit with built-in GPS Dobinson lift at the front and three inches in the rear. Other and DVD player. There’s also a rear-mounted roof DVD and a gear includes a colour-coded ARB bullbar with custom- second Garmin GPS mounted on the dash. A Uniden UHF radio made scrub rails and steps; an Ironman 12,000lb winch; sits just below the rear-vision mirror and a hard-wired mobile dual batteries under the bonnet, along with an electronic phone kit. The rear houses a set of Outback Solution drawers, where my 40-litre Engel lives. The middle row of seats are currently out of the vehicle with a custom-made false floor and cargo barrier in their place, giving enough room for myself and my partner to sleep if we need to. As for trips, I have taken the Prado to WA three times, up to Kalbarri. Twice to Uluru and Kings Canyon. Once to Darwin and across the Gulf. It’s been to Fraser Island three times, up to Cairns once, and done several trips through outback NSW. Plus three trips to the Flinders Ranges, both between COVID lockdowns. Being from Victoria, most of its trips have been to the Vic High Country and the Grampians. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve been to both of these places. A lot of these trips have been towing a smallish camper trailer along, including through the river crossings in and out of Talbotville. As for the best places we’ve been, we live in Australia, so it’s all good. DAVID BUTLER 2020 FORD F-250 I love my F-250. I bought it new and had it all fitted out. Some of the equipment includes Dometic fridges, a microwave, 3000W inverter, Alu-Cab rooftop tent, and a 180-degree awning. We also tow our Hollywood Lotus caravan with it, and we have plans to do the lap soon.This pic was taken at Fraser Island or Double Island Point. 4x4Australia.com.au 121
4X4 SHED DATE ACQUIRED: JAN 23 PRICE: N/A 2022 FORD RANGER KM SINCE PURCHASE: 1774 SPORT V6 AV FUEL: 13.7L/100KM TOUR DE FORCE WA V6 RANGER SPORT MOVES IN TO OUR SHED HILE we’ve had plenty of time get to appreciate its refined and comfortable behind the wheels of RA Ford ride and its list of features. Apple CarPlay Rangers when testing them for a can take a little while to connect when you week at a time and at launches, first get in, and this is both wireless or hooked it’s another story when you take up by cable. Once connected, your music and ownership of one and really get to know it. phone calls are available via a touch on the big That’s just what we’ve done with the screen or voice command, which also works magazine’s latest project build car: this 2022 very well. Ranger Sport V6. This car came off Ford’s fleet The Ranger is a pleasure to drive around and, looking at the number plates, it was used town, but it does use a bit of fuel in the city. on that original press launch in Victoria. It had We’re averaging around 15.7L/100km in the around 6500km on it when we bought it and, suburbs; on the 110km/h open highway with while it didn’t come at a bargain price, buying all the additions on the car so far, the Sport a used one did mean we skipped the months- averaged 12.1L/100km without any extra load long waiting list. on it. Our plans for the Ranger are to kit it up for It’s been interesting to see how the WORDS MATT RAUDONIKIS touring and off-roading using some incredible accessories we fitted affect the way the aftermarket parts and accessories, and then Ranger drives as they go on. First up were drive it. This has meant a lot of motoring the TJM Venturer front bar, Torq winch and FOOT SAFE around Melbourne, going from one parts side-steps, and you can only just feel the extra Tough TJM side- steps have a good supplier/manufacturer to another to create a weight over the front end of the car but not tread surface. plan of what’s to go on the car, when, and how enough for it to be a negative. we can document it. Likewise, removing the steel load tub and Using the Ranger as a daily driver, you really fitting the aluminium Trig Point canopy added 122 4x4Australia.com.au
around 130kg to the back of the car, and you WHEELS could really notice the shift in the balance of the vehicle there. Maxxis muddies on Fuel alloys look While an extra 130kg over the back axle the goods. should be minimal when you consider the car’s 934kg payload, it has put the rear suspension under the pressure of a lot more weight – as driving it off-road now sees the standard set-up bottoming out over bumps and undulations. Lucky we have a Tough Dog suspension replacement lined up. The biggest difference has been felt with the fitment of Maxxis tyres and Fuel wheels. We put these same Maxxis RAZR MT772 tyres in the same size on our PX Ranger build a few years ago, and at the time we commented on how quiet they were for an aggressive mud- terrain tread pattern. Fast forward to the more refined and quieter RA Ranger and you really notice and feel the muddies on it. It really demonstrates how much quieter the new V6 Sport is over the 3.2-litre XLS we had. One thing I really dislike about the new Ranger is the small buttons for manually shifting the automatic transmission. Ford Australia’s engineers were really proud of the new ‘e-shifter’ at the time of launch, but it’s a fail for me – the thumb buttons are too small and not as easy to use as a shifter that moves fore and aft in its own gate, like in the earlier models. UNDER COVER More TJM armour, a multi-piece bash plate system. 4x4Australia.com.au 123
THE ESSENTIAL NUMBERS AND PRICES OF EVERY 4X4 ON SALE IN AUSTRALIA REAR VIEW 4X4 AUSTRALIA LOOKS BACK AT THE CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRY, THE RISE IN OUTBACK TOURING, THE EVOLUTIONARY SOPHISTICATION OF 4X4S, AND MORE 30 YEARS AGO – MARCH 1993 We were full of accolades for the new auto Australia, back then, turbo-diesel won the day but Discovery that we tested in this issue and which that may be changing! graced the cover of the magazine. The late Paul Harrington who tested the latest Green Oval Equipment-wise we had a look at the best offering rated it highly around town, on the dress-up wheels for your rig, fuel filters and the highway and when the going got much tougher. best swags to get a great night’s sleep when out High praise indeed. in the bush. Down in Tassie we wandered the backblocks of the Pieman, checked out the NT’s We also checked out a V6 Pathfinder and Eastern MacDonnell Ranges and trekked the had a towing comparison between some petrol Richmond Ranges in NSW; all great places to visit and turbo-diesel rigs. In the 4WD world here in and enjoy today. 20 YEARS AGO – MARCH 2003 A total of 17 vehicles graced the front cover of Our travel stories covered such places as this issue in what was one of the biggest – no, the the Barrington Tops in NSW and the remote biggest – 4x4 of the Year tests the mag has ever Diamantina NP in Queensland, Moonie was carried out. For the six judges, it was a busy time interviewing Glenn Ridge, the past host of ‘Sale with a few heated discussions on the strengths of the Century’ and an avid car nut that saw him and weaknesses of the players. Incredibly it run in the Targa Tasmania as well as present TV was a unanimous decision on the winner, the documentaries on remote areas of Australia. LandCruiser GXL V8 auto. What a weapon! Al Whiting looked at ways of improving your Toyota stole more headlines with the launch fuel consumption with hints that are as good and of its iconic and quirky FJ Cruiser at the Detroit effective today as they were 20 years ago. For Motor Show. It was certainly different and, while it campers we had a comprehensive look at swags appealed to some, it never really grabbed us until and tents, the swag market having changed and it won 4x4OTY when it lobbed in Australia. mushroomed in choice since. 10 YEARS AGO – MARCH 2013 Packed with great stories the cover yarn was an White driving lights and even more products to whet exposé on a supercharged and fully kitted out FJ your appetite and empty your wallet. Cruiser riding on 35s, which really meant a diff change to get the best performance … but what a There was a swag of destination stories spread weapon. We also looked at a Toyota Tundra, which right across the country. Moonie was wandering back then was a solitary import special, but now, a around Nuytsland in SA, while other scribes were decade later, Toyota is actually going to bring these exploring Shark Bay in WA, Lamington NP, the mighty pickups to our shores – and about time, too! Burrum coast and Cape York in Qld; while Yuraygir NP in northern NSW was deemed to be the epitome Product wise we looked at a heap of gear, of a beach and bush destination for four wheelers. ranging from Redarc solar panels to ARB’s Skydome All those place are high on our list of favourites to swag to Conquerors UEV-345 camper trailer, a go to today! Leatherman multitool, the Delorme inReach, Great 124 4x4Australia.com.au
JUST THE FACTS UNITS RANGER STARTS 2023 IN TOP SPOT 4250 Top-selling 4x4s in January 2023 3044 FORD’S next-gen Ranger continues to lure buyers, with the Blue Oval ute Source: VFACTS 1637 posting the strongest sales figures in January 2023 on both the overall VEHICLE 1230 and 4x4 charts. The Ranger shifted a total of 4250 4x4 units for the 1. Ford Ranger 1182 month – 4749 when you combine 4x2 and 4x4 sales – positioning it with 2. Toyota Hilux 1169 a healthy sales buffer above its perennial rival, the Toyota Hilux. 3. Isuzu D-MAX 1051 4. Ford Everest 996 Toyota’s ageing Hilux continues to sell well, securing second spot on 5. Toyota Prado 828 both the 4x4 (3044 sales) and overall (4131) charts, despite a new model 6. Mazda BT-50 716 looming. Isuzu’s D-MAX was the third best-selling 4x4 in Australia in 7. Mitsubishi Triton January, posting 1637 deliveries, a spike of 12.6 per cent compared to 8. Toyota LandCruiser 300 the same time last year. 9. Isuzu MU-X 10. GWM Ute The Ford Everest wagon also posted a strong start to 2023, with a total of 1230 next-gen deliveries arriving in new driveways – SUBSCRIBE TO this represents a sales growth of 68.5 per cent compared to January 2022 and positions the Everest as the best-selling large SUV in and get full access to our Australia. digital magazine archive! GWM’s Ute is the most popular of the budget utes available in Australia, with the Chinese ute’s 716 sales for the month securing a top 10 appearance. The GWM Ute leads the LDV T60 with 587 sales and the SsangYong Musso with 308 sales. In the $100K+ battle between the Chevrolet Silverado and RAM 1500, the RAM remains more popular with buyers – 405 sales versus 225 for the month. Overall vehicle sales increased by 11.9 per cent in January 2023, compared to the same month last year, with a total of 84,873 new vehicles delivered for the first month of the year. Of these sales, SUVs (46,698) and LCVs (18,546) accounted for a whopping 76.9 per cent of deliveries. The LCV market in particular was up by 1.6 per cent (287 sales) compared to January 2022. “This data is the best January result since 2018 and shows that the industry is continuing to recover following years of supply chain disruption and delay,” said Tony Weber, Federal Chamber Of Automotive Industries' chief executive. 4x4Australia.com.au 125
thescore 4X4 MARKETPLACE FORD 5-year/unlimited km www.ford.com.au ISUZU UTE 6-year/150,000km www.isuzuute.com.au RANGER D-MAX Ford introduces a V6 diesel powertrain for the next-gen Ranger, with the all-new model along with the All new D-MAX loses its links with GM and is an all-Isuzu affair. The new model is a huge step up with carried over bi-turbo 2.0L. Full-time 4x4 is also offered on some models. class-leading safety tech, more power and torque from the 3.0L, and fresh, aggressive styling. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Single XL C/C 47,030 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 1903 1327 3500 80 Super XL C/C 49,530 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2007 1223 3500 80 SX Single c/c PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL SX Single c/c Super XL P/U 51,430 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2167 1063 3500 80 SX Space c/c 40,200 I4TD/3.0 M6 450 140 1780 1310 3500 76 SX Space c/c 42,200 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 1790 1310 3500 76 Double XL C/C 48,280 SiT4/2.0 A6 405 125 2046 1144 3500 80 LS-U Space p/u 43,700 I4TD/3.0 M6 450 140 1850 1250 3500 76 SX Crew c/c 45,700 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 1860 1240 3500 76 Double XL C/C 51,780 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2072 1158 3500 80 SX Crew c/c 53,900 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2000 1100 3500 76 SX Crew p/u 46,700 I4TD/3.0 M6 450 140 1900 1200 3500 76 Double XL P/U 50,180 SiT4/2.0 A6 405 125 2190 1000 3500 80 SX Crew p/u 48,700 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 1910 1190 3500 76 LS-M Crew p/u 47,900 I4TD/3.0 M6 450 140 2025 1075 3500 76 Double XL P/U 53,680 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2216 1014 3500 80 LS-M Crew p/u 49,900 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2035 1065 3500 76 LS-U Crew p/u 51,900 I4TD/3.0 M6 450 140 2020 1080 3500 76 Double XLS P/U 54,730 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2216 1014 3500 80 LS-U Crew p/u 53,000 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2030 1070 3500 76 X-Terrain Crew p/u 54,900 I4TD/3.0 M6 450 140 2035 1065 3500 76 Super XLT P/U 59,990 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2178 1052 3500 80 56,900 i4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2045 1055 3500 76 62,900 I4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2130 970 3500 76 Double XLT P/U 61,990 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2225 1005 3500 80 Double XLT C/C 63,290 V6/3.0 A10 600 184 2129 1151 3500 80 Double XLT P/U 65,190 V6/3.0 A10 600 184 2285 995 3500 80 Double Sport P/U 64,490 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2242 988 3500 80 Double Sport P/U 67,690 V6/3.0 A10 600 184 2300 980 3500 80 Dbl Wildtrak P/U 67,990 BiT4/2.0 A10 500 154 2295 985 3500 80 Dbl Wildtrak P/U 71,190 Dbl Platinum P/U 76,990 V6/3.0 A10 600 184 2353 997 3500 80 V6/3.0 A10 600 184 N/A N/A 3500 80 MU-X Dbl Raptor P/U 86,790 V6P/3.0 A10 583 292 2431 753 2500 80 Isuzu’s seven-seat wagon based on the D-MAX ute underpinnings, but with a smooth-riding coil- spring rear suspension. Uses Isuzu’s respected 3.0-litre TD engine. EVEREST PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Second-gen Ranger-based Everest arrived in 2022 in four variants, with a choice of two diesel LS-M 53,900 L4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2092 658 3500 80 engines: a carryover twin-turbo four-cylinder or a new single-turbo V6. LS-U LS-T 55,900 L4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2142 608 3500 80 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL 65,900 L4TD/3.0 A6 450 140 2157 593 3500 80 Ambiente 57,990 L4TD/2.0 A10 500 154 2367 733 3500 80 JEEP 5-year/unlimited km www.jeep.com.au Trend 80 Sport 65,290 L4TD/2.0 A10 500 154 2383 717 3500 80 Platinum 80 69,090 V6TD/3.0 A10 600 184 2454 696 3500 WRANGLER 77,690 V6TD/3.0 A10 600 184 2492 658 3500 JL Wrangler has true off-road credentials and great versatility. In Rubicon-spec, the Wrangler is an absolute off-road weapon. GWM7-year/unlimited km www.gmwute.com.au PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL UTE Sport S (2-door) 51,950 V6/3.6 A8 347 209 1762 551 1497 66 Overland (2-door) Formerly Great Wall but now calling itself GWM, the brand's latest Ute comes in three 4x4 models, all Night Eagle (4D) 61,450 V6/3.6 A8 347 209 1900 560 2495 81 double-cab, and all with the 2.0-litre engine and eight-speed auto. Overland (4-door) Rubicon (4-door) 60,950 V6/3.6 A8 347 209 1762 551 1497 66 Rubicon (2-dr) PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL 65,950 V6/3.6 A8 347 209 1900 560 2495 81 Cannon 38,990* L4TD/2.0 A8 400 120 N/A N/A N/A 75 67,450 V6/3.6 A8 347 209 1992 570 2495 81 Cannon L Cannon X 37,990* L4TD/2.0 A8 400 120 N/A N/A N/A 75 64,950 V6/3.6 A8 347 209 1900 550 1947 66 Vanta 45,490* L4TD/2.0 A8 400 120 N/A N/A N/A 75 CHEROKEE 46,490* L4TD/2.0 A8 400 120 N/A N/A N/A 75 The MY19 update for the KL Cherokee – the fourth generation of the series – included a design facelift, modern in-vehicle tech and autonomous emergency braking across the range. TANK 300 Chinese-built Tank 300 may have similar design cues to the Jeep Wrangler, but it's powered exclusively PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL by a 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid system. Longitude 41,950 V6/3.2 A9 315 200 1780 678 2200 60 Limited PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Trailhawk 46,950 V6/3.2 A9 315 200 1806 652 2200 60 Tank 300 Lux 55,990 L4HY/2.0 A9 640 224 2331 N/A 2500 80 48,450 V6/3.2 A9 315 200 1889 605 2200 60 Tank 300 Ultra 60,990 L4HY/2.0 A9 640 224 2331 N/A 2500 80 GRAND CHEROKEE LT Trail Boss LTZ Premium GMSV www.gmspecialtyvehicles.com.au Jeep’s fifth-gen Grand Cherokee five-seater runs a grunty V6 petrol engine. Jeep's Quadra-Trac 4x4 system for all models, and Quadra-Lift air suspension for Overland. CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL General Motors Specialty Vehicles is part of the Walkinshaw Group and is responsible for importing, Night Eagle 77,950 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2167 N/A 2813 87 converting and marketing GM vehicles in Australia. Currently that is just the Silverado 1500, with more to Limited come including Silverado 2500 and the Corvette sports car. Overland 83,950 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2167 N/A 2813 87 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL 103,250 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2167 N/A 2813 87 106,990* V8/6.2 A10 624 313 2540 760 4500 91 GRAND CHEROKEE L 114,990* V8/6.2 A10 624 313 2588 712 4500 91 The seven-seat Grand Cherokee ditches diesel and runs V6 petrol power. Four variants on offer, with Overland and Summit Reserve featuring Jeep's Quadra-Lift air suspension. HAVAL 5-year/100,000km www.haval.com.au PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Night Eagle 82,750 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2190 N/A 2813 87 Limited H9 Overland 88,750 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2190 N/A 2813 87 Summit Reserve The Chinese-made Haval H9 is a midsize 4x4 from Great Wall’s luxury arm. It’s a relatively fresh arrival on 103,250 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2270 N/A 2813 87 the Aussie market. 115,950 V6/3.6 A8 344 210 2270 N/A 2813 87 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL H9 Lux 41,990* L4/2.0 A8 350 180 2250 645 2500 80 GLADIATOR H9 Ultra 45,990* L4/2.0 A8 350 180 2250 645 2500 80 Jeep's double-cab pick-up is finally here in two spec levels, with the Pentastar V6 and 8-speed auto in both. The Night Eagle is the entry level while the Rubicon is the hardcore off-roader. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL *This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads. Night Eagle 68,450 V6/3.6P A8 347 209 2104 693 2721 83 Rubicon 76,450 V6/3.6P A8 347 209 2215 693 2721 83
LAND ROVER www.landrover.com.au V8 SVAuto Dyn SWB 346,170 V8SP/5.0 A8 700 416 2591 569 3500 104 SDV8 Auto LWB 271,310 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2658 682 3500 86 DEFENDER 90 SDV8 SVAuto LWB 377,170 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2658 682 3500 86 V8 Auto LWB 284,410 V8SP/5.0 A8 625 386 2518 682 3500 104 Defender 90 range closely mimics the 110 wagon range but in a shorter three-door wagon body. Right V8 SVAuto LWB 403,670 V8SP/5.0 A8 700 416 2673 527 3500 104 from the four-cylinder petrol motors, through the various diesels, and up to the stonking V8. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LDV 7-year/200,000km www.ldvautomotive.com.au D90 P300 $80,540 I4/2.0P A8 400 221 2074 N/A 3500 90 T60 D90 S P300 $88,470 I4/2.0P A8 400 221 2074 N/A 3500 90 D90 S D250 $95,590 I6/3.0D A8 570 183 2303 667 3500 89 Chinese ute brings five-star safety to the budget-priced dual-cab segment. Revamped in 2021, with the D90 SE P400 $105,690 I6/3.0P A8 550 294 2141 N/A 3500 90 Pro variants bringing more power and redesigned front-end. D90 X P400 $145,700 I6/3.0P A8 550 294 2141 N/A 3500 90 D90 P525 $215,480 V8/5.0P A8 625 386 2470 N/A 3000 90 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL DEFENDER 110 Max Pro (manual) 41,042 I4/2.0 M6 500 160 N/A 935 3000 73 Max Pro (auto) 43,148 I4/2.0 A8 500 160 N/A 925 3000 73 Max Luxe (manual) 45,779 I4/2.0 M6 500 160 N/A 935 3000 73 Max Luxe (auto) 47,884 I4/2.0 A8 500 160 2900 925 3000 73 Mega Tub 49,463 I4/2.0 A8 500 160 N/A N/A 3000 73 A Defender by name only. The new wagon from Land Rover is all-new and shares nothing with its LEXUS 4-year/100,000km www.lexus.com.au predecessor. Still a bare-bones 4x4 with plenty of ability, just now wearing a shiny new suit. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LX P300 84,350 I4/2.0p A8 400 221 N/A N/A 3500 90 Take one Land Cruiser 200, give it a nose job, a whopping 5.7-litre petrol V8 and bunch of extra tech P400 S 99,500 I6/3.0p A8 550 294 N/A N/A 3500 90 gizmos and voila, you have the Lexus LX570. D300 SE 104,000 I6/3.0d A8 650 220 N/A N/A 3500 90 P400 SE 111,400 I6/3.0p A8 550 294 N/A N/A 3500 90 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL P400 HSE 129,900 I6/3.0p A8 550 294 N/A N/A 3500 90 D300 HSE 123,050 I6/3,0d A8 650 220 N/A N/A 3500 90 LX570 142,431 V8/5.7 A8 530 270 2740 705 3500 138 D300 X 151,000 I6/3.0d A8 650 220 N/A N/A 3500 90 LX570 S 167,731 V8/5.7 A8 530 270 2740 TBC 3500 138 P400 X 153,200 I6/3.0p A8 550 294 N/A N/A 3500 90 LX450 D 135,171 V8/4.5 A6 650 200 2660 TBC 3500 93 P525 V8 226,500 V9/5.0p A8 625 386 N/A N/A 3500 90 MAHINDRA 5-year/unlimited www.mahindra.com.au PIK-UP .Available in single- and dual-cab configuration with or without a tub. and recently scored the option of an automatic transmission - Flash! A tough and reliable farm truck. DISCOVERY PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Land Rover Discovery combines excellent on-road dynamics with impressive off-road capability. Single c/c 30,990* L4TD/2.2 M6 330 103 1780 1370 2500 80 Strong performance comes courtesy of state-of-the-art four-cylinder and V6 turbo-diesel engines. Dual c/c Dual p/u 34,500* L4TD/2.2 M6 330 103 1940 1210 2500 80 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Dual p/u S10 35,500* L4TD/2.2 M6 330 103 2080 1070 2500 80 D300 S 99,900 I6TD/3.0 A8 650 221 2109 831 3500 89 42,990* L4TD/2.2 M6 330 103 2080 1070 2500 80 D300 SE 106,100 I6TD/3.0 A8 650 221 2109 831 3500 89 D300 HSE 113,700 I6TD/3.0 A8 650 221 2109 831 3500 89 *This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads. D300 S RDynamic 105,200 I6TD/3.0 A8 650 221 2109 831 3500 89 D300 SE Dynamic 111,400 I6TD/3.0 A8 650 221 2236 814 3500 89 MAZDA 5-year/unlimited km www.mazda.com.au D300 HSE Dynam 118,600 I6TD/3.0 A8 650 221 2236 814 3500 89 BT-50 P360 S RDynamic 105,200 I6TP/3.0 A8 500 265 2236 814 3500 89 All new BT-50 steps away from its Ford roots, as Mazda partnered with Isuzu for the new model. That means Isuzu powertrains and class-leading safety wrapped in a sveldt Mazda skin. D360 SE Dynamic 111,400 I6TP/3.0 A8 500 265 2236 814 3500 89 D360 HSE Dynam 118,600 I6TP/3.0 A8 500 265 2236 814 3500 89 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL RANGE ROVER SPORT Dual XS p/u 51,210 I4TD.1.9 A6 350 110 1935 1165 3500 76 Single XT c/c Rangie Sport is available with four-, six- and eight-cylinder diesel engines, a PHEV or a stonking super- Single XT c/c 41,650 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 1186 3500 76 charged petrol V8. It delivers performance luxury and genuine off-road capabiltiy. Extra XT c/c Extra XT c/c 44,150 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1186 3500 76 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Dual XT c/c Dual XT c/c Si4 SE 105,759 L4TP/2.0 A8 400 221 2027 873 3000 104 Dual XT p/u 45,150 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 1135 3500 76 Dual XT p/u Si4 PHEV SE 134,289 L4TP/2.0 A8 640 297 2415 785 2500 91 Dual XTR c/c 47,650 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1135 3500 76 Dual XTR p/u Si4 PHEV HSE 149,598 L4TP/2.0 A8 400 221 2415 785 2500 91 Dual XTR p/u 51,960 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1096 3500 76 Dual GT p/u V8 HSE Dynamic 175,259 V8SP/5.0 A8 625 386 2252 848 3500 104 Dual GT p/u 49,460 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 1106 3500 76 Dual SP p/u V8 Autobiography 204,929 V8SP/5.0 A8 625 386 2252 848 3500 104 Dual SP p/u 50,860 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 1095 3500 76 SVR 238,829 V8SP/5.0 A8 700 423 2239 761 3000 104 53,360 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1090 3500 76 TDV6 SE (183) 113,131 V6TD/3.0 A8 600 183 2159 891 3500 86 55,910 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1910 1190 3500 76 SDV6 SE (225) 122,631 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2159 891 3500 86 54,810 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 1080 3500 76 SDV6 HSE 139,331 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2159 891 3500 86 57,310 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1070 3500 76 SDV6 HSE Dyn 146,231 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2159 891 3500 86 SDV6 Autobio 179,401 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2159 891 3500 86 57,090 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 1075 3500 76 SDV8 HSE 152,459 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2344 856 3500 86 60,090 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 1065 3500 76 SDV8 HSE Dyn 159,759 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2344 856 3500 86 63,090 I4TD.3.0 M6 450 140 2198 902 3500 76 RANGE ROVER 66,090 I4TD.3.0 A6 450 140 2208 892 3500 76 Land Rover combines supreme luxury and off-road capability in the Rangie. More power, less MERCEDES 3-year/200,000km www.mercedes-benz.com.au weight and better economy are just some of the improvements to the über-roader. SDV6 Vogue PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL G-CLASS SDV8 Vogue SDV8 Vogue SE 196,102 V6TD/3.0 A8 625 202 2328 802 3500 86 With triple diff locks, long-travel coil suspension and rugged construction, Merc’s Gelandewagen is off- SDV8 Auto SWB 212,195 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2570 720 3500 86 road heritage writ large. Unfortunately, so is the price tag on an updated 30-year-old design. I6 Vogue 230,795 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2570 720 3500 86 Si4 PHEV 261,310 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2570 720 3500 86 G63 AMG PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL V8 Auto SWB 201,395 I6TP/3.0 A8 550 294 2342 798 3500 104 G400d 211,925 I4TP/2.0 A8 400 221 2577 633 2500 90 259,600 V8/4.0 A9 850 430 2560 640 3500 100 274,210 V8SP/5.0 A8 625 386 2450 710 3500 104 233,776 I6/2.9 A9 700 243 2489 661 3500 112
thescore 4X4 MARKETPLACE MITSUBISHI 7-year/150,000km www.mitsubishi-motors.com.au RAM 3-year/100,000 km www.ramtrucks.com.au PAJERO SPORT RAM 1500 Pajero Sport replaced the Challenger in Mitsubishi’s 4x4 range. It’s still on a Triton ute chassis but with You'll find Ram trucks here from various importers, but the official distributor is Ram Trucks Australia. rear coils under the back and bespoke bodywork. 2020 refresh added Dynamic Shield front end. Currently selling the DS Ram 1500, with the newer DT model due to arrive shortly. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Express Quad cab 79,950 V8P/5.7 A8 556 291 2605 845 4500 121 GLX (5-seat) 49,940 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2145 630 3100 68 Express Crew Cab 89,950 V8P/5.7 A8 556 291 2620 830 4500 121 GLS (7s) GLS Deluxe (7s) 55,190 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2195 580 3100 68 Warlock Crew C 104,450 V8P/5.7 A8 556 291 2650 830 4500 121 Exceed (7s) GSR (7s) 57,440 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2204 571 3100 68 Laramie Crew 104,950 V8P/5.7 A8 556 291 2650 800 4500 98 60,690 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2209 566 3100 68 Laramie Crew 109,950 V6TD/3.0 A8 569 179 2715 735 3500 98 62,440 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2209 566 3100 68 RAM 2500 TRITON The 2500 is the first of the heavy duty Ram model and is only available in Laramie specification in Australia. Powered by the Cummins in-line six, the 2500 is a torque monster and towing champion. MR Triton consists of a four-model line-up that tops out with the GSR. All models get a 2.4-litre, PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL turbocharged diesel engine with a six-speed transmission. 2500 LAramie 157,950 I6d/6.7 A6 1152 276 3660 835 4500 117 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL RAM 3500 GLX Single c/c 33,240 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1660 1235 3000 75 The 1500 is the standard model while the 2500 and 3500 Rams are the Heavy Duty versions packing HD GLX Single c/c 35,740 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1665 1235 3000 75 drivelines, Cummins diesel engines and huge lowing capacities. New HD models also coming soon. GLX Club c/c 35,740 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1765 1135 3000 75 GLX ADAS Club c/c 39,040 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1780 1120 3000 75 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL GLX Dual c/c 36,490 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1795 1105 3100 75 GLX ADAS Dual c/c 39,790 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1795 1105 3100 75 Laramie Crew 162,950 I6TD/6.7 A6 1152 276 3596 1713 6170* 132 GLX+ Club p/u 41,740 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1930 970 3100 75 GLX Dual p/u 37,490 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1920 980 3100 75 SSANGYONG 7-year/unlimited km www.ssangyong.com.au GLX Dual p/u 39,990 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1920 980 3100 75 GLX ADAS Dual p/u 38,540 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1951 949 3100 75 MUSSO GLX ADAS Dual p/u 41,040 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1956 944 3100 75 GLX+ Dual p/u 40,990 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1915 985 3100 75 Thrifty South Korean dual-cab has been reborn with more subdued styling and an unbeatable warranty. GLX+ Dual p/u 43,490 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1915 985 3100 75 XLV variant adds segment-topping tray length to the line-up’s killer pricing. GLX-R 41,990 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 N/A N/A 3100 75 GLX-R 44,490 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 N/A N/A 3100 75 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL GLS Dual p/u 45,440 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1935 965 3100 75 GLS Dual p/u 47,940 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1935 965 3100 75 EX $30,490 L4TD/2.2 M6 420 133 2177 703 3500 75 GLS Premium 52,790 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 2042 848 3100 75 EX GSR 55,690 L4TD/2.4 A6 430 133 1999 901 3100 75 ELX $32,490 L4TD/2.2 A6 420 133 2192 688 3500 75 Ultimate ELX XLV $35,990 L4TD/2.2 A6 420 133 2192 688 3500 75 ELX XLV Ultimate XLV $39,990 L4TD/2.2 A6 420 133 2192 688 3500 75 Ultimate+ XLV $33,990 L4TD/2.2 M6 420 133 2160 1025 3500 75 $35,990 L4TD/2.2 A6 420 133 2170 1025 3500 75 $39,990 L4TD/2.2 A6 420 133 2170 880 3500 75 $43,990 L4TD/2.2 A6 420 133 2170 880 3500 75 REXTON NISSAN 5-year/unlimited km www.nissan.com.au After a two-year hiatus, the South Korean manufacturer launched its two-prong attack on the 4x4 wagon market. The family rig is loaded with kit and comes with a lean price tag. PATROL Y62 ELX PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Ultimate In a segment that drinks diesel, top-spec Patrol is available in V8-petrol guise only. Fully independent 47,990 L4TD/2.2 A7 444 148 2233 727 3500 70 suspension is backed by electronic traction aids. Updated model launched late in 2019. 3-door Hardtop 54,990* L4TD/2.2 A7 444 148 2233 727 3500 70 3-door Hardtop PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL SUZUKI 3-year/100,000km www.suzuki.com.au GX Ti 82,160 V8/5.6 A7 560 298 2812 688 3500 140 GXL VX Ti-L 95,115 V8/5.6 A7 560 298 2708 746 3500 140 Kakadu JIMNY NAVARA D23 GX Pint-sized cult classic returns in fourth-gen guise. Live axles front and rear and retro styling means it GXL will remain a favourite on the off-road scene. The latest iteration of Nissan's D23 Navara ute range arrives with a bolder look and a revised line-up. Crusade Pro-4X Warrior has to be the best navara produced ever!. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Single SL c/c 39,300 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1614 1296 3500 80 28,490 L4/1.5 M5 130 75 1095 340 1300 40 King SL c/c 45,800 L4TD/2.3 A7 403 120 1727 1183 3500 80 29,990 L4/1.5 A4 130 75 1110 325 1300 40 King ST-X p/u 57,695 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1908 1002 3500 80 King SL p/u 47,600 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1941 969 3500 80 TOYOTA 5-year/unlimited km www.toyota.com.au King ST-X p/u 53,750 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1944 966 3500 80 Dual SL c/c 44,800 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1759 1147 3500 80 PRADO Dual SL p/u 46,600 L4TD/2.3 M6 450 140 1823 1087 3500 80 Dual SL p/u 47,400 L4TD/2.3 A7 403 120 1923 987 3500 80 The 150 Prado has been Australia's best-selling 4x4 wagon for the better part of 10 years. In 2018, a Dual SL p/u 47,550 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1928 982 3500 80 heap of safety features were added to all automatic models, from the base-model GX up to the Kakadu. Dual ST-X p/u 55,770 L4TD/2.3 M6 450 140 1917 993 3500 80 Dual ST-X p/u 58,270 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1921 989 3500 80 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL PRO-4X 58,155 L4TD/2.3 M6 450 140 2186 724 3500 80 PRO-4X Warrior 69,990 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 2151 1019 3500 80 60,830 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2150 835 3000 150 67,530 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2325 665 3000 150 77,157 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2435 555 3000 150 87,807 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2435 555 3000 150 FORTUNER Toyota’s Hilux-based seven-seat wagon competes with Ford Everest, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Isuzu MU-X and Holden Trailblazer. Smaller than a Prado but still a proper 4x4 wagon PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL 49,080 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2175 625 3100 80 54,350 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2185 615 3100 80 61,410 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2190 610 3100 80 128 4x4Australia.com.au
LAND CRUISER 300 SERIES W'Mate Dual c/c 47,290 I4TD/2.4 A6 400 110 1915 1085 3000 80 W'Mate Dual p/u 46,790 I4TD/2.4 M6 400 110 2045 955 3200 80 It's out with the V8s and in with an all-new V6 diesel engine in the new 300 Series Land Cruiser. There W'Mate Dual p/u 48,790 I4TD/2.4 A6 400 110 2045 955 3000 80 are now six models in the range including the new GR Sport and Sahara ZX models. SR Single c/c 42,590 I4TD/2.8 M6 420 150 1795 1205 3500 80 SR Single c/c 44,590 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 1795 1205 3200 80 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL SR Extra c/c 46,250 I4TD/2.8 M6 420 150 1890 1110 3500 80 SR Extra c/c 48,250 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 1895 1155 3200 80 GX 89,990 V6TD/3.3L A10 700 227 2495 785 3500 110 SR Dual c/c 48,510 I4TD/2.8 M6 420 150 1955 1045 3500 80 GXL SR Dual c/c 50,660 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 1955 1045 3200 80 VX 101,790 V6TD/3.3L A10 700 227 2580 700 3500 110 SR Dual p/u 50,010 I4TD/2.8 M6 420 150 2050 950 3500 80 Sahara SR Dual p/u 52,010 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2045 955 3200 80 GR Sport 113,990 V6TD/3.3L A10 700 227 2630 650 3500 110 SR5 Extra p/u 58,400 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2045 1005 3200 80 Sahara ZX SR5 Dual p/u 57,920 I4TD/2.8 M6 420 150 2040 960 3500 80 131,190 V6TD/3.3L A10 700 227 2630 650 3500 110 SR5 Dual p/u 59,920 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2045 955 3200 80 Rogue Dual p/u 70,200 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2174 826 3200 80 137,790 V6TD/3.3L A10 700 227 2630 650 3500 110 Rugged X Dual p/u 69,990 I4TD/2.8 A6 500 150 2252 748 3200 80 138,790 V6TD/3.3L A10 700 227 2610 670 3500 110 TDI400 Core c/c TDI400 Core LAND CRUISER 70 TDI420 Core c/c TDI420 Core The 70 Series Cruiser’s torquey TDV8 makes it a load-hauler extraordinaire. Available as long-wheelbase TDI420 Core Plus Troopie or five-door, mid-wheelbase wagon. TDI550 Core Sportline 550 V6 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL Highline 550 V6 Ultimate 550 V6 WorkMate Troopy 72,950 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2320 980 3500 180 Ultimate 580 V6 W580S GXL Troopy 76,150 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2335 965 3500 180 W580X WorkMate wagon 69,000 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2220 780 3500 90 GXL Wagon 73,100 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2190 810 3500 90 LAND CRUISER 70 CAB-CHASSIS VOLKSWAGEN 5-year/unlimited km www.volkswagen.com.au With its TDV8 powerplant, the Land Cruiser ute is better than ever. Optional Toyota diff locks make it super-capable off-road. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL AMAROK WorkMate single c/c 70,550 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2045 1003 3500 180 Amarok is an impressive all-rounder with two Ute Of The Year wins. Bi-turbo engine punches above its weight and is very economical. TDV6 is a powerhouse. GX single c/c 72,550 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2010 1013 3500 180 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL GXL single c/c 74,650 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2020 1023 3500 180 LAND CRUISER 79 DOUBLE CAB 43,090 L4TD/2.0 M6 400 132 1865 1018 3000 80 44,590 L4TD/2.0 M6 400 132 1873 1018 3000 80 Tough-as-nails and with room for five, the LC79 dual-cab has the same V8 manual torque and diff- 46,090 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 1865 1018 3000 80 lock option as other 70s to make for an almost unstoppable off-road workhorse. 47,590 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 1873 1018 3000 80 51,590 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 1978 988 3000 80 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL 52,590 V6TD/3.0 A8 550 165 2091 989 3000 80 56,590 V6TD/3.0 A8 550 165 2078 1002 3500 80 WorkMate dual c/c 73,100 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2205 900 3500 130 61,090 V6TD/3.0 A8 550 165 2169 911 3500 80 68,490 V6TD/3.0 A8 550 165 2216 864 3500 80 GXL dual c/c 77,200 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2215 900 3500 130 72,790 V6TD/3.0 A8 580 190 2196 884 3500 80 79,990 V6TD/3.0 A8 580 190 2228 848 3500 80 HILUX 78,890 V6TD/3.0 A8 580 190 2285 847 3500 80 The N80 Hilux with a new 2.8-litre engine, six-speed transmissions and a beefed-up towing capacity. A facelift and more power for the 2021 model adds to its appeal. W'Mate Single c/c PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL W'Mate Extra c/c 39,520 I4TD/2.4 M6 400 110 1775 1225 3200 80 45,220 I4TD/2.4 A6 400 110 1890 1110 3000 80 FIVE-SEAT GRAND CHEROKEE IS OFFICIALLY OUT NOW FOLLOWING delays, the ‘regular’ five-seat 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee will finally land in Australia this month. The new variant headlines an update to the fifth-generation WL Grand Cherokee range, which launched in Australia one year ago in seven-seat, long-wheelbase ‘L’ form. While the 3.6-litre naturally-aspirated V6 continues for most variants, Jeep will offer a 2.0-litre four-cylinder ‘4xe’ plug-in hybrid for the range- topping, five-seat Summit Reserve later this year. The five-seat Grand Cherokee is priced from $77,950 before on-road costs – up $17,500 over the previous-generation model – with four grades available: Night Eagle, Limited, Overland and Summit Reserve. This is in line with the Grand Cherokee L, which gains the mid-spec Overland trim for model-year 2023 and minor price rises. Other additions include a larger 10.1-inch infotainment system for the entry-level Night Eagle and a 360-degree camera system for the Limited. While Jeep Australia has homologated the off-road-focused Trailhawk five-seat variant, it remains under consideration – but a Trailhawk-lite ‘Off- Road Group’ option pack is available for the Grand Cherokee Overland. 4x4Australia.com.au 129
PARTING We all have that one mate who manages to get in to PIC strife on every 4x4 trip, whether they are the first one to get bogged, roll the car or just get lost. Well, here’s SEND TO OUR FB PAGE: @4X4AUS your chance to show the world their embarrassing predicaments and give yourself a chance to win a $300 voucher for MAXTRAX recovery gear. BANG OUT OF ORDER BRENT EDWARD > ORMEAU, QUEENSLAND AS a photographer, Brent Edward was front drive, so we double-checked to ruts until it was flat, and told him to touring the 4WD tracks in Ormeau see if he was in 4WD – he was,” Brent disengage 4WD and power home with on the Gold Coast, taking snaps of added. “We then asked if he heard a no stops,” Brent said. his mates’ cars, when they came upon bang recently.” two P-platers struggling to mount a His mate stayed in front with a strap scrabbly track. Twenty-five minutes earlier, the just to be sure, and Brent told them to young lad was attempting a hill jump on his UHF channel and to let “We went down to give them a spot, climb and something went bang, so them know if they got stuck again. but the Holden Rodeo just couldn’t he turned around to come home and make it,” Brent told 4X4 Australia. made it to where Brent and his mates “They learned that if the car in front “The young fella’s tyres were so bald, found him. makes a bad (loud) noise, then put the he couldn’t get any traction. other car in front,” Brent told us. “We hooked my mate Klay’s GQ up “We also noticed the Rodeo had no to it and winched him over some small And make sure your tyres have tread! T&Cs • Voucher can only be redeemed through www.maxtrax.com.au • When using the voucher, any outstanding balance can be paid as normal. • If you don’t spend the whole thing, the remaining balance can be used on your account in the future. • The voucher will expire 3 years from the date of activation. 130 4x4Australia.com.au
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