There is something about Australia’s deserts that gets under your skin – the silence, the scale and the feeling that you are a very small part of a very big landscape.

It is exactly what draws so many of us back time and time again. But those same qualities that make desert travel so rewarding are the ones that can turn a simple mistake into a serious situation. Out here there is no roadside assistance, no phone signal and no servo around the corner. When you head into desert country you are relying on your preparation, your judgement and the gear you carry. Desert travel is not about being fearless – it is about being ready.

These are the five things every 4×4 adventurer should have when heading into remote desert country. Not the flashy extras or the latest trends – just the solid essentials that keep you safe, self-sufficient and confident to explore further than the bitumen.

1. Sand flag

A sand flag is one of the simplest pieces of safety equipment you can bolt onto your four-wheel drive, yet it is often the one that saves lives.

When you are driving in desert country – especially among sand dunes – visibility becomes your biggest challenge. Tracks twist and turn. Crests hide what is coming. Dust hangs in the air long after the last vehicle has passed.

In places like the Simpson Desert, a sand flag is not just a good idea – it is compulsory. The reason is simple. When two vehicles meet on the crest of a dune there is very little time to react. A bright fluorescent flag gives the driver approaching from the other side a vital early warning that someone is coming. It can mean the difference between slowing down in time and a head-on collision.

But the Simpson is not the only place where a sand flag matters. Any desert track with blind rises and soft dunes is a place where visibility is limited. Len Beadell’s iconic routes – such as the Gunbarrel Highway, the Connie Sue and the Anne Beadell Highway – all feature sections where a sand flag can be the only thing visible above the scrub.

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Even beach driving benefits from a sand flag. When you are climbing dunes near popular coastal areas, other drivers can appear out of nowhere. A flag gives everyone more time to react.

Choosing a sand flag is not complicated. Most 4×4 accessory stores stock dedicated kits, but a homemade option can work just as well as long as it meets the guidelines. The flag must be fluorescent and clearly visible. It should measure at least 300mm by 290mm. I used to run an old UHF aerial mounted to the roof rack, wrapped in red electrician’s tape and topped by a fluorescent flag.

Mounting height is just as important as the flag itself. If fitted to the bullbar, the top of the flag needs to sit at least 3.5m from the ground. If mounted to a roof rack, it must be at least 2m above the mounting point. This ensures the flag is visible above the vehicle and surrounding terrain.

A sand flag is not about ticking a rulebook box – it is about protecting yourself, your passengers and the people travelling in the opposite direction. In remote desert country, that responsibility sits with all of us.

2. UHF radio

In the desert, communication is everything. When something goes wrong, being able to talk to other travellers can change the outcome of a situation in seconds. That is why a UHF radio is one of the most valuable tools you can carry into remote desert country.

Many people see a UHF as nothing more than a way to talk to mates in convoy or listen to truck drivers swap stories. But in desert travel it becomes a critical safety device. It allows you to share your location, warn others of hazards and listen for approaching vehicles long before you see them.

Channel 10 is widely recognised as the desert travel channel and is the recommended channel for the Simpson Desert. Along major routes such as the QAA Line and French Line you will find marked call points where drivers announce their position and direction of travel. A simple call – such as “eastbound vehicle at dune 15” – can prevent a dangerous encounter moments later.

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Experienced desert travellers often keep one radio permanently tuned to channel 10 while using another channel for convoy chatter. It might sound excessive, but it keeps the safety channel clear for important information. When you are hundreds of kilometres from help, clear communication becomes a form of insurance.

It is also important to use the right channels for the right reasons. In the desert and on major highways, channels such as 10, 18 and 40 are used for safety and information. They are not the place for long conversations about camp cooking or last night’s footy score. Keeping those channels clear helps everyone.

A good quality UHF with a properly mounted aerial will give you several kilometres of range – often more in open desert terrain. That range can be the difference between handling a situation yourself and needing outside help. I noticed on a recent CSR trip that my 3.0dBi UHF antenna was not well suited to dune country, so I plan to upgrade to a 6.6dBi aerial for my next desert adventure.

When travelling remotely, a UHF radio does more than keep you in touch. It keeps you connected to the wider travelling community. And in the desert, that community is often your first line of support.

3. Paper maps

We live in a time when navigation has never been easier.

Satellite systems and digital maps have put incredible tools in the hands of every traveller. Units like the Hema X2 and Garmin Overlander, along with apps such as Newtracs, allow us to pinpoint our location within metres. Tracks, campsites and fuel stops appear with a tap of the screen.

But the desert has a way of reminding us that technology is never foolproof. Batteries go flat, screens crack and units overheat. Sometimes the simplest things – dust and vibration – can bring electronics to an end at the worst possible moment.

This is why paper maps still deserve a permanent place in every desert travel kit. A good quality map gives you a broader understanding of the country you are travelling through. It shows not just where you are, but where you can go if plans change. Alternative routes, old tracks, water points and emergency exits all become part of your decision-making.

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Knowing how to read a map is a skill every outback traveller should develop. It does not require advanced training – just a basic understanding of scale, direction and landmarks. Pair that map with a simple handheld compass and you have a navigation system that works anywhere, anytime, without power.

A compass is often overlooked because it seems old-fashioned, but it remains one of the most reliable tools you can carry. It tells you where north is, no matter what. From there everything else falls into place.

In the desert, redundancy is not about being paranoid – it is about being practical. Carrying both electronic navigation and paper maps means you always have a backup. When you are far from help, that backup can become your primary lifeline.

Navigation is not just about finding your way forward – it is about knowing how to get out if you need to. And in remote desert country, that knowledge brings confidence.

4. Water

If there is one item that defines survival in the desert, it is water. You can travel for weeks with minimal food. You can manage with limited comfort. But without water, everything stops.

The human body is made up of about 60 per cent water. Every cell, every organ and every system relies on it. Water regulates body temperature, keeps joints moving and helps flush toxins from the body. Without it, the effects of dehydration begin quickly and escalate fast.

In cool, shaded conditions a person might survive close to a week without water. In the heat of the desert that time frame shrinks dramatically. Three or four days can be enough for dehydration to become life-threatening. In extreme temperatures, even less.

An adult needs at least 4L of water per day just to stay alive in hot conditions. That is not for comfort or luxury. That is simply to keep the body functioning. In severe heat, a person can lose up to 1.5L of fluid per hour through sweating alone. If that fluid is not replaced, the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke rises quickly.

For desert travel the rule is simple. Carry more water than you think you will need – then carry some more. Plan for breakdowns, delays and detours. Plan for the day when the track is slower than expected and the heat is higher than forecast.

How you store your water is just as important as how much you carry. Relying on a single tank or container is a risk. A cracked tank or leaking fitting can cost you everything. Spread your water across multiple containers so that one failure does not leave you stranded.

Water is not just for drinking. It is for cooking, washing wounds, cleaning eyes full of dust and keeping yourself functioning when conditions are tough. In remote desert country, water is not a convenience – it is life itself.

Every desert traveller should treat water with the respect it deserves. Because when everything else fades away, water is what keeps you going.

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5. Recovery gear

Getting bogged in the desert is part of the experience.

No matter how skilled you are or how well prepared your vehicle might be, soft sand and steep dunes have a way of catching everyone out eventually. What matters is not whether you get stuck, but how you deal with it when you do.

Recovery in desert country is not about rushing – it is about thinking clearly and working methodically. The best recoveries are often the calmest ones. When you feel frustration creeping in, that is the time to stop, boil the billy and take a breath. A few minutes of clear thinking can prevent hours of hard labour or expensive damage.

Every desert touring vehicle should carry a basic recovery kit. At a minimum, this includes a long-handled shovel, a quality set of recovery tracks, rated shackles, a kinetic rope and properly rated recovery points on the vehicle. These items will handle the vast majority of situations you are likely to encounter.

A shovel is often the most powerful recovery tool you own. Clearing sand from in front of tyres and diffs can turn an impossible situation into a simple drive-out. Recovery tracks add traction where tyres struggle, especially on soft dune faces.

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Rated recovery points are critical. Never attach a strap or winch line to anything that is not designed for the load. A failed recovery point can become a deadly projectile. Safety must always come first.

For those travelling solo or tackling more challenging routes, a winch adds another layer of security. In the desert, winching is not always straightforward due to the lack of solid anchor points. This is where a snatch block, a static extension rope or even a sand anchor can make all the difference.

But owning recovery gear is only half the story. Knowing how to use it properly is what really counts. Take the time to learn correct techniques and attend a recovery course if you can. Practise in controlled environments before you need those skills in the middle of nowhere.

In remote travel, self-reliance is everything. The better prepared you are, the more confident you become. And when you are confident, you can relax and truly enjoy the adventure rather than worry about what might go wrong.

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Extra advice

Desert travel strips things back to the basics.

Out there the distractions fade away, and what remains is you, your 4×4 and the country stretching to the horizon. It is one of the most honest ways to travel Australia, but it also demands respect – respect for the environment, for the distances involved and for the reality that help is never close.

The gear you carry is not about fear; it is about freedom. Freedom to explore further, to take the long way around and to camp where the silence is louder than the engine ever was. When you know you are prepared, you travel with confidence rather than caution. You enjoy the moments instead of worrying about what might go wrong.

A sand flag, a UHF, proper navigation, enough water and the right recovery gear are not glamorous additions to your build. They will never draw a crowd at the pub, but they are the difference between a trip that stays in your memory for all the right reasons and one you would rather forget.

The desert will always be bigger than any of us, and that is part of its magic. Travel it well, travel it prepared and it will reward you with experiences that no highway ever could.

The Jeep Gladiator has been a hit in the USA but, unfortunately, it hasn’t enjoyed the same following here in Australia.

That doesn’t mean the Gladiator isn’t a good thing – quite the opposite, in fact – and Jeep’s ute makes an excellent off-road touring vehicle. And when we say off-road, the Rubicon is built for serious challenges straight out of Toledo. That’s not to say you can’t improve on what Jeep created, and that’s exactly what Vijay has done with this Gladiator Rubicon. At its core, the Gladiator is a long-wheelbase Jeep Wrangler ute – or pick-up in Jeep-speak.

“I’m a fan of ‘beast-looking’ trucks, and I felt the Jeep Gladiator delivers that look, along with the mechanicals to make it a great 4×4 both on- and off-road,” Vijay says.

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Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator is now only available in top-of-the-line Rubicon specification in Australia, and that means heavy-duty live axles with locking diffs front and rear, long-travel suspension, a disconnecting front swaybar to aid articulation, proper rock rails, and ultra-low gearing for superior off-road crawling.

Unfortunately, Australian-delivered Jeeps get smaller tyres than they do in the USA, where 35s are standard on a Rubicon and some models even come off the showroom floor wearing 37-inch off-road rubber. Vijay Kumar didn’t let the smaller tyre size dissuade him from purchasing a new Gladiator Rubicon, as he had bigger plans for his Jeep.

AccuAir suspension transforms capability 

With the help of Bill Barbas from Jeep specialist workshop Double Black Offroad, Vijay has transformed his Gladiator into an unstoppable off-road tourer. We featured Bill’s own Gladiator a few years ago, and it’s the lessons learnt on that vehicle – and other Jeeps – that he now applies when building customer rigs.

A great example of this is the AccuAir suspension system fitted to both Gladiators. This system replaces the standard coil springs with air bellows at each corner. Height sensors work with the onboard air system, allowing the Jeep to be dropped low for easy loading or raised up to five inches above stock to clear obstacles on the track.

The compressor and air tank are mounted under the chassis, and the system is self-levelling when parked on uneven ground or when the load in the canopy changes. It’s a setup that retains excellent wheel travel while adding the versatility of adjustable ride height. Bill also fitted Teraflex HD ball joints and a Synergy draglink to optimise the suspension package.

The AccuAir suspension is a Mopar-approved accessory in the USA, where it can be fitted to a new Jeep at the dealership. Here in Australia, Double Black Offroad is the place to source and fit an AccuAir kit. The state-of-the-art suspension setup works superbly to keep the 34-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tyres planted. Extra clearance at the front comes courtesy of a set of Double Black Offroad front fender extensions.

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Touring-ready canopy and off-grid setup

Jeep Wranglers might be great off-road rigs, but they are limited as touring 4x4s due to a lack of interior and cargo space.

The Gladiator overcomes this problem, but you’re still left with an open and unsecured ute bed at the rear. The best fix – as many Australian four-wheel drivers have discovered – is to ditch the tub and replace it with a service body-style canopy.

“I chose to fit the canopy to accommodate our camping needs and our two fur babies,” explained Vijay.

The Mits Alloy setup on the back of the Gladiator features an aluminium canopy mounted to a flatbed tray, so it can be removed if Vijay wants to use the Jeep as a ute. Inside, the canopy houses a Dometic upright fridge, a slide-out pantry and kitchen, soundbar speakers, Redarc RedVision power management, an auxiliary battery, an inverter, and plenty of storage.

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There’s more storage under the tray in tapered toolboxes, while up top you’ll find a 180-degree awning and solar panels. A bank of KC HiLiTES lights is mounted atop the headboard to illuminate the tracks at night. The Mits Alloy canopy has been set up to support all of Vijay and his family’s needs on camping trips.

“It makes more sense to have a canopy with proper storage so things are convenient at all times,” Vijay said.

Other gear on the Jeep includes an Ironman ‘Raid’ front bumper with a Warn Evo 12 winch tucked inside for recovery duties. The intake snorkel comes from Rugged Ridge, while UHF communications are handled by GME.

The Gladiator build is comprehensive, transforming the Jeep pick-up into an all-in-one off-grid touring 4×4 with exceptional off-road capability, and Vijay couldn’t be happier. It’s still a fresh build, and Vijay says he’s enjoying exploring its capabilities and refining the setup as he heads for the hills in the Victorian High Country and other locations around Melbourne.

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List of mods, upgrades and accessories

• AccuAir air suspension system (air bellows replacing coil springs)
• Onboard air system with compressor and air tank (AccuAir setup)
• Teraflex HD ball joints
• Synergy draglink
• 34-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tyres
• Double Black Offroad front fender extensions
• Mits Alloy flatbed tray conversion
• Mits Alloy aluminium service body-style canopy
• Dometic upright fridge
• Slide-out pantry and kitchen setup (canopy fit-out)
• Integrated soundbar speakers (canopy interior)
• Redarc RedVision power management system
• Auxiliary battery system
• Under-tray tapered toolboxes
• 180-degree awning
• Roof-mounted solar panels
• KC HiLiTES lighting (mounted on headboard)
• Ironman ‘Raid’ front bumper
• Warn Evo 12 winch (integrated into bumper)
• Rugged Ridge snorkel
• GME UHF radio communications system

There’s no handbook handed out when you buy your first 4×4.

No dealer throws in a pamphlet explaining convoy etiquette, track courtesy or the little things experienced drivers just expect everyone to know. Instead, most people learn the hard way – usually after annoying someone on a track, getting called out over UHF, or realising they’ve made a rookie mistake everyone else spotted immediately.

Like most tight-knit communities, Aussie 4WDing has its own unspoken code. It’s not about gatekeeping or acting like there’s only one right way to do things. It’s about respect – for other drivers, for the tracks we all use, and for the bush itself.

Whether you’re new to four-wheel driving or have been hitting dirt for years, these are the unwritten rules every 4×4 driver should know.

1. Wave to oncoming drivers

It sounds simple, but the classic two-finger wave is still one of the strongest traditions in Australian 4WDing.

Whether it’s a finger lift off the steering wheel, a quick nod or a proper hand-up through the windscreen, acknowledging another driver is just part of the culture. It’s not compulsory, but it’s one of those small things that keeps the community feel alive out on remote tracks. Ignore everyone and you’ll stand out – and not in a good way.

2. Air down before the track forces you to

Few things scream “first trip out” like hitting a rough track at highway pressures.

Lowering tyre pressures improves traction, smooths out corrugations and reduces the punishment your suspension cops over rough terrain. It also helps protect the track by letting the tyre flex rather than dig in. If everyone else is pulling over to air down and you’re still rolling along untouched, you’ve probably missed a key step.

3. Leave gates exactly how you found them

Open stays open. Closed stays closed.

It doesn’t matter what you think is more convenient or whether it looks like no livestock are around. If someone before you left it a certain way, there’s usually a reason. Get this wrong on private land and you’ll quickly find out how important it is to respect access agreements.

4. Don’t sit up someone’s backside on obstacles

Watching another vehicle tackle a climb or crossing is useful. Sitting right behind them while they’re trying to pick a line is not.

Drivers need space to reverse, reposition or recover if things go wrong. Crowding them adds pressure and increases risk for everyone involved. Give people room to work the obstacle, not a rearview mirror full of your bull bar.

5. Recovery gear isn’t a fashion accessory

Maxtrax on the roof, a winch on the bar and a shovel on the side look the part – but none of it matters if you don’t know how to use them.

Recovery situations are where small mistakes become big problems. If you’re carrying gear, you should know how it works before you need it in anger. Out on the tracks is not the time to be learning from scratch.

6. Keep UHF chatter useful

Convoy comms matter.

Short, clear and relevant radio calls help keep everyone safe and moving smoothly. Calling hazards, blind corners and directions is useful. Twenty minutes of unrelated noise is not. And if someone calls for quiet on the radio, there’s usually a reason.

7. Pack out everything you brought in

This one should be obvious, but it still gets ignored.

Campsites, tracks and rest stops are not rubbish bins. Every bit of waste left behind increases the chances of access restrictions down the line. That includes recovery holes, broken gear and the “I’ll pick it up later” mindset.

8. Don’t let your build write cheques your skills can’t cash

Big tyres and expensive mods don’t automatically equal capability.

Some of the most experienced drivers are in near-stock rigs, while heavily modified vehicles sit stuck on the sidelines. Skill, judgement and patience matter more than spec sheets. Knowing your limits is part of being a good driver.

9. Help others when you can

One of the best parts of 4WDing in Australia is how often people stop to help.

If someone’s stuck or broken down, checking in is just what you do. You don’t need to become everyone’s recovery crew, but a bit of help or advice goes a long way. Chances are, you’ll need it one day too.

10. Track closed means track closed

Not “closed unless you think you can make it”. Not “closed unless your setup is capable”.

Closed means closed. Track closures protect people, the environment and future access. Ignoring them doesn’t just risk fines – it puts long-term access at risk for everyone.

Special mentions

• Don’t stop in blind spots or narrow sections unless you absolutely have to
• If you’re unsure, stop and walk the obstacle first
• Be self-sufficient – don’t rely on others to get you out
• Don’t spin tyres unnecessarily just to “push through it”
• Keep convoy spacing consistent – not tailgating or strung out miles apart
• When turning in a convoy, wait at intersections until the vehicle behind is in sight before proceeding

An updated Suzuki Jimny has been spotted testing overseas, with camouflaged prototypes snapped driving in snowy conditions in Europe.

Images shared to the SuzukGarage Instagram page show two disguised three-door Jimnys featuring covered front fascias and temporary LED light strips replacing the standard headlights during testing. Reports suggest the prototypes could preview an electric version, but the vehicles appear to retain conventional 4×4 hardware.

The current Jimny uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing 75kW and 130Nm, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Suzuki sold 579 Jimny variants in Australia in April 2026, taking year-to-date deliveries to 2537 units. That’s down 12.8 per cent on the same period in 2025, when 2910 Jimnys had been sold by the end of April.

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_{Photo: Instagram/@suzukgarage}

Locally, the Jimny range is priced from $31,990 for the Jimny Lite, with the standard three-door starting at $33,990 (manual) and topping out at $36,490. The five-door version is priced from $34,990, while the Heritage edition sits at $40,990.

The three-door model returned to Australia earlier in 2026 after a brief production pause in 2025, when manufacturing was temporarily halted while the model awaited updates to meet Australian Design Rules. Suzuki also resumed sales of the Jimny XL after a temporary stop-sale and order cancellations last year linked to a Japan-led quality investigation.

During that period, deliveries were paused and some customer orders were refunded while the issue was reviewed. Suzuki later confirmed there were no concerns relating to safety, quality, performance or compliance, allowing stock to be released and deliveries to restart.

Suzuki launched the current-generation Jimny in 2018, and the latest spy shots point to a mid-life update rather than a full redesign of the compact off-roader.

The 70 Series is legendary for reliability, but even the toughest 1VD‑FTV diesel struggles in extreme Aussie environments. 

From the Simpson to the Kimberley, heat is one of the most common yet preventable threats to engine performance. Stock cooling systems are predominately designed with road use in mind, but venture to the outback with a trailer in tow (or simply just running accessories like fridges and winches) and the 70 Series can often be pushed to its thermal limit.

Sustained low-speed driving reduces airflow through the radiator and intercooler, causing coolant, transmission and engine oil temperatures to rise. In these conditions, the engine’s stock cooling capacity is often insufficient. Veteran tourers know that an overheated engine can not only ruin a trip but also lead to costly component failure or leave you stranded in remote locations with limited recovery options.

Prolonged heat stress can warp cylinder heads, distort the engine block, break down oil, strain the turbocharger, and reduce transmission performance. Recognising these risks early is critical, and fitting proven aftermarket cooling solutions is a smart way to keep your vehicle’s vital systems within safe operating limits.

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Upgrades to keep your 70 Series running cool

Managing heat in extreme conditions requires the right combination of components, all available from the 70 Series Store.

Performance radiators increase cooling capacity, helping the 1VD‑FTV shed heat faster under heavy load or prolonged low-speed driving. Transmission and engine oil coolers maintain fluid temperatures, protecting the gearbox, turbo and internal components under sustained stress. Heavy-duty thermostats stabilise engine temperature, while coolant overflow tanks provide extra system capacity to reduce the risk of boil-over.

Airflow is equally important. Safari snorkels from the 70 Series Store feed cooler, cleaner air into the engine, lowering under-bonnet temperatures while keeping dust and water out. Under-bonnet ventilation, through strategically placed vents or mesh grilles, allows trapped heat to escape, helping all cooling upgrades work efficiently.

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Monitoring is a critical part of thermal management. High-accuracy temperature gauges provide real-time readings for coolant, oil, and transmission fluids, allowing drivers to adjust speed or load before critical thresholds are reached. For longer trips, data loggers track trends and identify potential hotspots, giving insight needed to prevent problems before they occur.

Pairing a quality snorkel with trusted cooling and monitoring hardware is a surefire way to ensure your 70 Series stays cool even in the harshest conditions.

Using a real-world example, a fully loaded 70 Series crossing the Simpson Desert highlights the difference proactive cooling makes. On a stock setup, the engine can approach critical temperatures within hours of heavy sand crawling. After fitting an upgraded radiator, auxiliary oil and transmission coolers, and under-bonnet ventilation, the same route is more than likely to be completed without a single thermal warning. Continuous monitoring can also allow the driver to make informed adjustments on the fly, keeping the engine within safe operating limits.

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Keeping the cabin cool matters just as much

Heat inside the vehicle can be relentless in the midday sun, compounding driver fatigue and making long-distance travel uncomfortable and unsafe.

Upgrading interior comfort doesn’t just help your air conditioner work smarter, it reduces radiant heat load and keeps occupants alert on long sections of corrugated dirt or sandy plains. A great first step is the Freezebrain A/C Amplifier, a plug‑and‑play unit that lets your air con drop evaporator temperatures significantly lower than stock, delivering genuinely cold air when you need it most.

Complementing that, external shade solutions like these Weather Shields help reduce heat entering through open windows during rain or dust runs, while Magnetic Sun Shades block solar gain through glass when parked or driving, protecting the interior from UV and reducing cabin temperature build‑up. Together these upgrades keep the inside of your 70 Series noticeably cooler in harsh Aussie conditions, improving comfort without sacrificing airflow or practicality.

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Heat is one of the most underestimated threats to 70 Series reliability in the outback.

Stock cooling systems cannot always cope with extreme conditions, heavy loads or extended bush travel. Veteran tourers know that radiator upgrades, auxiliary coolers, airflow improvements, and accurate monitoring are just as essential as a quality set of tyres.

For many 4×4 enthusiasts, heading off the bitumen isn’t an occasional detour – it’s the whole point. 

Beaches, fire trails, desert tracks and remote touring routes are where modern four-wheel drives earn their keep. But despite that, plenty of owners are still insured under policies designed primarily for sealed-road use. Club 4×4’s policies are built specifically around off-road driving, modified vehicles and the realities of touring beyond city lights.

Off-road driving: covered by design

One of the biggest questions we hear 4×4 owners ask is whether they’re insured once the asphalt ends. With Club 4X4, off-road driving isn’t treated as an exception or grey area. If your vehicle is being used legally and within the policy terms, coverage applies whether you’re on a highway, a bush track, a beach or an unsealed access road.

Club 4X4’s approach is simple: If the track or area is legally accessible to vehicles, the policy follows you there.

What about water crossings, sand and rough tracks?

Off-road incidents rarely look like suburban prangs. Damage often comes from washouts, boggings, creek crossings or low-speed mishaps in rough terrain. Club 4X4 policies are structured to respond to accidental damage that occurs in those environments, rather than assuming every claim will take place in traffic.

That doesn’t mean anything goes – deliberate misuse, unlawful activity or mechanical failure from neglect still sit outside cover – but genuine off-road accidents aren’t automatically excluded just because they happened in the bush.

Accessories and modifications aren’t an afterthought

Modern touring and recreational 4x4s are rarely stock. Suspension upgrades, bar work, winches, drawers, rooftop tents and electrical systems can quickly add tens of thousands of dollars to a build.

With Club 4X4, declared accessories and modifications can be insured at an agreed value, separate to the base vehicle. That includes not just the parts themselves, but also installation and labour costs, which are often the hidden expense when repairing or replacing modified vehicles. Club 4X4’s product is designed around the kinds of upgrades most four-wheel drivers actually fit.

Recovery coverage when you’re nowhere near help

Getting stuck off-road isn’t unusual, and getting professionally recovered from a remote location can be expensive. Standard roadside assistance often stops where sealed roads end, leaving owners to foot the bill.

Club 4X4 includes off-road recovery benefits as part of its comprehensive policies, contributing to the cost of professional recovery when you’re bogged, stranded or unable to safely drive out. For those heading further afield, higher recovery limits can be selected to reflect the real costs of remote travel.

Importantly, this isn’t about a mate with a snatch strap – it’s cover for specialist recovery services when you’re genuinely stuck and need professional help to get back to a gazetted road or safe location.

Gear you carry, not just what’s bolted on

Touring setups usually involve plenty of gear that isn’t permanently fixed to the vehicle including recovery kits, camping equipment, fridges, tools and personal items. Club 4X4 policies include personal effects cover for this kind of equipment, with options to increase limits or specify higher-value items.

That means your trip doesn’t become uninsured the moment gear is unloaded at camp or stored in the vehicle overnight, provided it falls within the policy terms.

The fine print still matters

While Club 4X4 policies are tailored for off-road use, they’re still insurance contracts with conditions. Illegal activity, overloading, exceeding vehicle limits, wear and tear or poor maintenance aren’t suddenly covered just because the policy is specialist. Sensible vehicle use and preparation still matters.

The difference is that off-road driving itself isn’t treated as a problem to be excluded – it’s treated as normal use.

The bottom line for 4×4 owners

If your idea of driving regularly involves dirt, sand, water crossings and remote tracks, insurance designed purely for suburban commuting may not reflect how you actually use your vehicle. Club 4X4’s coverage is built around real four-wheel driving, recognising modified vehicles, off-road recovery and the gear that comes with touring and recreation.

As always, the PDS is essential reading. But for off-roaders who want clarity rather than caveats, specialist cover can make a meaningful difference when things go wrong a long way from home.

Despite the arrival of the ninth-gen Toyota HiLux late last year, the Ford Ranger continues to be the best-selling 4×4 vehicle in Australia. 

In April, the Ford Ranger recorded 3431 sales on the 4×4 charts, comfortably ahead of the Toyota HiLux on 2535. That gap is also reflected year-to-date, with the Ranger leading 15,023 to 11,486. The perennial top two are followed by the Isuzu D-MAX (1526), BYD Shark (1371) and Mitsubishi Triton (1125) in the PU/CC 4×4 rankings. Further down the list, it was another subdued month for the Kia Tasman despite its strong on- and off-road credentials, with Kia managing just 266 sales in April and 1433 year-to-date.

In the budget 4×4 segment, the GWM Cannon range has continued to outperform its direct rivals, with 796 combined sales across Cannon and Cannon Alpha. By contrast, the LDV T60 (214), LDV Terron9 (89), Foton Tunland (88), JAC T9 (56) and MG U9 (94) all recorded relatively soft results. The KGM Musso posted 132 sales ahead of its mid-year update.

At the premium end of the market, the Chevrolet Silverado/HD (237) led the large pick-up segment ahead of the Ram 1500 (121), Ford F-150 (84) and Toyota Tundra (51).

Overall, the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) market softened in April 2026, with 17,408 sales recorded compared to 20,436 in April 2025 – a 14.8 per cent year-on-year decline. The slowdown is also reflected in year-to-date figures, with 6202 fewer LCVs sold so far in 2026, representing a 7.3 per cent drop.

Digging deeper into the PU/CC 4×4 segment reveals a similar trend. April 2026 sales totalled 13,251, down from 15,672 in April 2025 – a 15.4 per cent decline. Year-to-date, 5400 fewer vehicles have been sold compared to the same period last year, equating to an 8.3 per cent decrease.

Diesel- and petrol-powered vehicle sales have also taken a significant hit, with 6225 fewer diesel models and 10,953 fewer petrol variants sold in April compared to the same month last year. Much of that demand appears to be shifting towards electrified options, with EV, hybrid and PHEV sales up by 8693, 3874 and 7027 units respectively.

The year-to-date figures tell much the same story. Diesel sales are down by 10,248 units, while petrol has seen a much steeper fall of 32,938. Meanwhile, EV, hybrid and PHEV sales continue to climb, up 22,998, 3812 and 12,546 units respectively.

In fact, Australians are buying EVs in record numbers, with electric vehicles accounting for 16.4 per cent of all new-car sales in April 2026 – roughly one in every six vehicles delivered nationwide. Overall, the new-vehicle market recorded 92,591 sales for the month, up 2.2 per cent on April 2025 despite ongoing economic uncertainty.

“The increase in supply of EVs since the introduction of the New Vehicle Efficiency Scheme, combined with higher petrol prices and the continued support provided through the Federal Government’s Electric Car Discount, is now translating into stronger demand,” said Tony Weber, FCAI chief executive.

“There are around 110 EV models available to Australians, and the supply of EVs continues to increase. The Electric Car Discount has provided important stimulus to the market, and its continuation will support the growth of EVs,” Weber said. “Stronger EV uptake is driving increased demand for public charging, and that demand must be matched by a step change in both public and private investment to ensure infrastructure keeps pace.”

Toyota held onto its position as Australia’s top-selling brand in April, shifting 15,185 vehicles for the month, while BYD continued its rapid rise to claim second spot with 7702 sales ahead of Kia and Hyundai. Ford rounded out the top five on the back of strong Ranger demand, while Chinese brands including GWM, Chery and MG all featured inside the top 10, highlighting the continued shake-up of the local new-car market. On the model charts, the Toyota RAV4 narrowly edged out the Ford Ranger (4×4 and 4×2) as Australia’s best-selling vehicle, with the Toyota HiLux (4×4 and 4×2) close behind.

Chinese brands also continued to strengthen their foothold, making up around 30 per cent of total sales, while BYD emerged as the country’s second best-selling marque for the month with an 8.3 per cent market share. That momentum is being driven largely by China’s growing dominance as a production hub, with 28,041 Chinese-built vehicles sold in Australia in April 2026 alone. That compares with 14,917 in April 2025, underlining the rapid pace of growth.

The year-to-date figures reinforce the trend, with nearly 40,000 more Chinese-made vehicles sold in Australia so far in 2026 compared to the same period last year.

The most powerful LandCruiser ever sold in Australia will be priced from $156,060 when the new hybrid lands mid-year, positioning the electrified variant firmly at the top end of the 300 Series line-up.

Toyota has confirmed pricing for the hybrid line-up, with the GR Sport opening at $156,060 and the Sahara ZX following at $156,810.

Both variants use Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX twin-turbo 3.4-litre V6 petrol-electric system, producing 341kW and 790Nm combined. That gives it a clear gain over the 3.3-litre turbo-diesel, up 114kW and 90Nm, and marks the most powerful output ever seen in a LandCruiser sold here.

“For more than two decades, Toyota has played a pioneering role in the development of hybrid technology and the new performance hybrid in the LandCruiser 300 Series takes that to another level,” said John Pappas, Toyota Australia’s Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations.

“Unlike our efficiency hybrids in vehicles like Camry and RAV4, this hybrid powertrain is all about improving performance – whether that’s for off-road adventures well beyond the tarmac or towing heavy loads such as caravans, horse floats or boats.

“Toyota customers have experienced the power and towing performance of the i-FORCE MAX powertrain in the Tundra landmark truck, with that proven capability now coming into the LandCruiser family.

“As the most powerful LandCruiser we have ever produced, the new performance hybrid GR Sport and Sahara ZX offer the ultimate performance in a premium 4WD SUV,” he said.

Underneath, the 300 Series formula remains intact. Full-time 4WD, Multi-Terrain Select and adaptive variable suspension continue across both grades. The Sahara ZX retains a rear Torsen limited-slip differential, while the GR Sport uses a more off-road-focused setup with front and rear diff locks and electronically controlled E-KDSS suspension.

Changes tied to the hybrid system include electric power steering replacing hydraulic assist, a 200V/1500W rear auxiliary power outlet, and a revised 40/20/40 split rear seat.

Inside, both grades remain heavily equipped with leather-accented trim, heated and ventilated front and outer rear seats, a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. The Sahara ZX also adds dual rear-seat entertainment screens.

Both models will be covered by Toyota’s five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and capped-price servicing program.

JAC has confirmed the Hunter PHEV will start from under $50,000 MSRP in Australia, undercutting key plug-in hybrid rivals including the BYD Shark and Ford Ranger PHEV.

BYD’s Shark launched in Australia at around $57,900 drive-away, establishing an early benchmark for the segment as one of the first mainstream plug-in hybrid dual-cab utes to reach the local market.

JAC has also confirmed the Hunter will offer a 3500kg braked towing capacity and 915kg payload across the range. Power comes from a dual system pairing a 2.0T GDI engine with dual electric motors, backed by a 31.2kWh LFP battery.

“Our focus was simple, deliver a truly work-ready ute with class-leading power, serious towing capability and outstanding efficiency, without the premium price tag,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director at JAC Motors Australia. “With Hunter, we’re giving Australian buyers everything they’ve been asking for and more, at a price point that changes the conversation.”

The 4×4 system includes front and rear differential locks and vehicle-to-load capability. JAC lists combined fuel consumption at 1.6L/100km (NEDC), with a claimed combined range of up to 1,005km under NEDC testing.

Development input came from Michael Barber of Multimatic, known for high-performance and off-road engineering programs, while the Hunter has also completed a 50,000km local validation program covering extreme heat, heavy rain, unsealed roads and long-distance touring conditions.

Reservations for the Hunter open Tuesday 5 May at 5pm AEST via jacute.com.au/hunter, with the first 1000 customers eligible for either a free home charger or a $500 JAC Genuine Accessory voucher on delivery.

Chery Australia has narrowed the field in its nationwide naming competition for the brand’s upcoming plug-in hybrid diesel ute, revealing a shortlist of nine names from more than 20,000 submissions.

Set to arrive in local showrooms later this year, the all-new ute has been developed with Australian conditions in mind. Chery says it will offer a 1000kg payload, 3500kg braked towing capacity and a diesel-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain aimed at combining traditional towing grunt with improved efficiency.

The public call-out drew entries from across the country, with Australians asked to nominate a name that captured the character of the new dual-cab and explain why it suited the vehicle. According to Chery, the shortlisted entries were shaped by themes of toughness, performance and durability, reflecting the way Aussies view utes as both hard-working tools and lifestyle vehicles.

“We asked Australians to help name this ute, and they delivered in a big way. The shortlisted names show just how passionate Aussies are about utes, but also how they’re thinking about the next generation of vehicles as new energy technology evolves,” said Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer, Chery Australia.

The nine shortlisted names are:

• Outrider: Inspired by pioneers scouting new territory, highlighting capability and long-range potential
• Orca: Draws on strength, intelligence and adaptability
• Ironbark: A nod to the tough native eucalyptus, reflecting durability
• Bushwalker: Captures Australian adventure and all-terrain ability
• Stockman: References outback heritage and dependable workhorse credentials
• Longreach: Suggests long-distance touring and rural toughness
• Ridgeback: Evokes rugged terrain and durable performance
• Terra: Derived from the Latin word for earth, linking to versatility
• Mate: A distinctly Australian name emphasising trust and everyday usability

The competition now moves to the public voting stage, with Australians soon set to choose their preferred name before the final winner is announced.

Whoever submitted the winning name will receive the first example of Chery’s new plug-in hybrid diesel ute when it lands in Australia later this year.