Dean Mellor

Contributor

Advice

Off-roading in mud: How to stay in control and avoid getting bogged

Mud might look like harmless fun, but it’s one of the most unpredictable and damaging off-road conditions. Here’s how to handle it safely when you can’t avoid it

Advice

4WD tyre pressures explained: Your off-road guide

Tailoring the air pressure in your tyres to suit different terrain types has many benefits, for both you and your rig

Advice

4x4 at night: How to avoid wildlife and stay safe on outback roads

In a country as vast as Australia, night driving is sometimes unavoidable. Here’s how to do it safely

Reviews

Nissan Patrol Buyers Guide: Every generation (60 Series, MQ, GQ, GU, Y62 and Y63)

An in-depth look at the Patrol's long and proud history

Reviews

First drive: All-New MGU9 enters Australia’s dual-cab contest

MG has joined Australia’s toughest segment with a bold dual-cab. We sample it on a short off-road drive

Old 4x4s are better at going off-road
Opinion

Why older 4x4s are way more fun in the bush

Older 4x4s can still outperform modern 4x4s in the bush, offering unrivalled fun

Opinion

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

Opinion

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 4x4 touring and customisation

Opinion

4x4s we'd buy, and how we'd modify them: Isuzu D-MAX LS-M

Serious 4x4 capability, solid towing credentials and loads of upgrade potential without the premium price tag

Reviews

Ford Ranger PHEV 2025 review: A compelling alternative

Blends petrol and electric power for strong performance, smooth handling, true 4x4 capability, and lower fuel use with plug-in convenience

Opinion

4x4s we'd buy, and how we'd modify them: Toyota HiLux SR5

A rugged and customisable 4x4 built for serious touring, with powerful performance and extensive accessory options

Opinion

4x4s we'd buy, and how we'd modify them: Toyota Prado GX

Base-spec GX is a well-equipped, five-seat 4x4 touring solution with solid off-road capability

Explore

The best off-road trips in Australia: Our most memorable 4x4 adventures

To celebrate 500 issues of 4X4 Australia magazine, three editorial elders share their most memorable adventures

Reviews

The top six off-road expedition vehicles

Not all 4x4s are suited to long-distance, remote-area expeditions, so the 4X4 Australia team share their six top choices

Reviews

2020 Ford Ranger XLS Sport long-term review

Deano's loaded Ranger XLS is an all-terrain tourer

Gear

Tested: Zorali Pack & Stash fireplace

When it comes to ease of setup, effectiveness and quality, not many portable fireplaces can match the clever Zorali Pack & Stash

Gear

OZtrail Tarkine 1400 rooftop tent review

The Tarkine is a traditional foldout rooftop tent from OZtrail that is packed with clever features and is oh-so comfortable

Gear

Razed Products' MaxTrax Flush Mounting Kit review

Mounting kit provides an easy way to carry and quickly access MaxTrax boards

Gear

How to safely negotiate water crossings

How to successfully and safely negotiate water crossings. After all, there are plenty of them around right now

Gear

How to: 4x4 systems and traction aids

In this instalment of 4x4 Australia's How To: Off-Road Driving Series, we're looking at the different 4x4 systems and traction aids available in various vehicles, what they do and how to best use them

How to pack a 4x4
Gear

How to expertly pack a 4x4

How to safely, securely and smartly pack gear in to your vehicle

How to rock crawl
Gear

Rock crawling: How to tame rocky terrain

The best techniques to safely and successfully drive over rocky terrain

How to plug a 4x4 tyre
Gear

Emergency fix: How to plug a tyre

Sooner or later you’re going to get a flat tyre. Rather than remove the wheel and fit the spare, you can often plug the hole. Here’s how

Convoy procedure
Gear

How to drive in a convoy

We look at best practice when it comes to driving in convoys – the why, the how and what equipment you’ll need to keep a group of travellers safe and prevent anyone from getting lost