Opinion
Can you turn a Ford Ranger XLT into a Raptor-beating tourer for less money? Absolutely
Why pay Raptor money when a modified XLT can do it better … for less
Don’t blame local councils for banning 4×4 vehicles – here’s why tightening beach access could be a good thing
As more councils tighten 4×4 beach access, sensible regulation could protect both the environment and recreational users
Is modern safety tech making driving more distracting than ever?
Modern vehicles are packed with safety tech – but all that beeping, flashing and prompting might be distracting drivers more than it helps
Australia’s caravan park prices are out of control! Here’s what to do instead
As some prices soar across Australia, more travellers are seeking out free camps and budget-friendly alternatives
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R
The Triton GLX-R is a strong base vehicle for mods, with solid 4WD capability
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Ford Ranger XLS
The Ranger XLS is a well-equipped, budget-friendly base for serious 4×4 touring and customisation
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Isuzu D-MAX LS-M
Serious 4×4 capability, solid towing credentials and loads of upgrade potential without the premium price tag
Modern 4x4s are overbuilt and overweight – and that’s why old ones are skyrocketing in value
As modern 4x4s grow heavier and more complex, demand for simpler, tougher classics is driving prices through the roof
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Isuzu D-MAX SX
A base-spec D-MAX SX can be transformed into a go-anywhere touring rig that will outperform higher-priced rivals
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota HiLux SR5
A rugged and customisable 4×4 built for serious touring, with powerful performance and extensive accessory options
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota HiLux SR
Building a capable and comfortable HiLux SR for less than a GR Sport
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota Prado GX
Base-spec GX is a well-equipped, five-seat 4×4 touring solution with solid off-road capability
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota Prado Altitude
The Prado Altitude is built for real-world adventure, not showroom flex
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Nissan Navara
Transforming a basic SL into a tough tourer that outshines the top-spec Warrior
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota Fortuner
A no-nonsense tourer with comfort and capability that won’t break the bank
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota LandCruiser 76 GXL wagon
A no-frills 4WD built for solo travel, serious off-roading, and zero compromise
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Nissan Y62 Patrol
A tough, V8-powered touring rig, the Patrol Y62 still earns its place in 2025
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Ford Everest
A well-balanced, well-equipped wagon that’s ready for touring straight from the showroom
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Isuzu MU-X
Pairing a tough 3.0L diesel with real-world comfort and capability
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series
Skip the GR Sport. Build a better, tougher tourer from the base GX and pocket the difference
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
The Pajero Sport is a sleeper hit – Japanese-built, reliable and off-road-ready
4x4s we’d buy, and how we’d modify them: Mazda BT-50
The under-appreciated BT-50 is a great base from which to build a capable tourer
Safety alerts and chimes are distracting drivers, and it’s becoming dangerous
The newer the car, the more annoying and distracting it is to the driver
Happy New Year! 2025 is going to be another big year for new 4×4 vehicles and the aftermarket industry
Manufacturers and the aftermarket industry are collaborating more than ever