The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak X – another addition to Australia’s top-selling ute range – will arrive in the second half of this year.

Joining the luxury-focused Platinum flagship due in May, the Ranger Wildtrak X prioritises off-road capability by adding new Bilstein-tuned dampers and a Raptor-lite wider track.

However, unlike the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6-only Platinum, it’ll be restricted to the 2.0-litre four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine fitted to lower Ranger variants.

Upgrade your Ranger

1

But, unlike other part-time 4×4 2.0-litre variants, it’ll follow its Everest large SUV stablemate in gaining the V6’s full-time four-wheel-drive system, with a 4A automatic mode.

It is priced from $75,990 before on-road costs – $8000 more than the standard 2.0-litre Wildtrak, and $1000 less than the Platinum V6.

It will be fitted as standard with the Wildtrak Premium Pack – adding matrix-LED headlights, a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and an overhead auxiliary switch bank – reducing the price premium to $6150 compared to the standard Wildtrak.

1

Ford’s local arm has confirmed the Wildtrak X will become the first Ranger to meet the stricter Euro 6 light-duty truck emissions standard in Australia, requiring the use of AdBlue diesel exhaust fluid – as seen in the related Ford Everest and Volkswagen Amarok.

Currently, all local Ranger variants meet the lenient Euro 5 emissions standard – the minimum requirement for all new vehicles sold in Australia since 2016 – which doesn’t require AdBlue to reduce harmful gases being released into the atmosphere.

The addition of a Raptor-like wider frame sees the front and rear track width increased by 30 millimetres – adding to the range-wide 50mm increase compared to the previous-generation Ranger – while ground clearance is up 26mm over the regular Wildtrak, to 258mm.

1

Under the skin, Ford has fitted wheel and suspension improvements, highlighted by Bilstein-sourced ‘position-sensitive’ dampers, as found in its twin under-the-skin, the Ford Bronco.

This updated system allows the dampers to automatically adjust to the terrain, with ‘end stop control valve’ technology for greater off-road performance, while also improving on-road dynamics.

Unlike the performance-orientated Raptor, the Wildtrak X retains the Ranger’s standard leaf-spring rear suspension, with a 3500-kilogram braked towing capacity.

1

Other new additions include; 17-inch black and silver alloy wheels, chunkier 265/70 R17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres, and Trail Turn Assist – another Bronco-derived feature – to reduce the vehicle’s turning radius by up to 25 per cent on narrow tracks by applying the brake to the inside rear wheel.

It can be engaged under 19km/h when the vehicle is engaged in either 4H or 4L, with the rear differential unlocked.

In addition, the Wildtrak X will feature the Raptor’s Trail Control off-road cruise function to maintain a constant set speed below 32km/h while off-roading, and a rock crawl drive mode tuned for “uneven, rocky terrain in a controlled manner at low speed.”

1

Like the Platinum, it’ll become the next Ranger variant to feature Ford’s new flexible rack system. You can read more about that by clicking here.

External revisions include; a unique grille design with integrated LED auxiliary lamps, a steel bash plate, cast aluminium side steps, Wildtrak X badging, additional gloss black highlights, and an exclusive cyber orange finish.

Inside, the Wildtrak X gains leather-accented and suede upholstery, Wildtrak X badging, all-weather floor mats, suede on the glovebox, instrument cluster hood, door trim and centre console, and orange stitching throughout.

It also receives the full-screen 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster shared with the Ranger Platinum and Raptor, replacing the smaller 8-inch unit found in the standard Wildtrak.

As mentioned, the Ranger Wildtrak X will be exclusively available with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder bi-turbocharged diesel engine. The turbocharged V6 diesel is available on the standard Wildtrak, but it won’t appear in the new variant – at least initially.

With no power bump, it retains the standard 150kW and 500Nm tune, and remains paired to a 10-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak X will arrive in Australia in the second half of this year, with pre-orders now open.

2023 Ford Ranger dual-cab 4×4 pricing

Prices exclude on-road costs. A full run-down for the 2023 Ford Ranger lineup is available here.

4X4 Australia's project builds

Land Rover owners are preparing to invade the NSW town of Cooma this Easter, to celebrate the 75h anniversary of the brand’s involvement with the Snowy Mountains Hydro Scheme.

Seen by many as the spiritual home of Land Rover in Australia, Cooma plays a significant role in the history of the British brand in Australia, as the Series 1 was launched in 1948 – a year before commencement of the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

The Snowy Mountains scheme – which consisted of 16 major dams, nine power stations, two pumping stations and an incredible 225km of tunnels, pipelines and aqueducts – was constructed between 1949 and 1974. More than 700 Land Rovers were used to tame the High Country’s mountainous terrain during the works, cementing the brand’s reputation in Australia and resulting in the success of the Series 2.

The Cooma Car Club is co-ordinating the upcoming celebration.

“They took part in various aspects of Australian life and won a lot of hearts,” Cooma Car Club president Rogan Corbett said. “As a result, our festival will show off almost every variation of this mighty machine, from renovated to restored, rare conversions, military derivatives and more.”

1

Perhaps the mightiest Land Rover in existence – the Oxford, one of two Series 1 Land Rovers that took part in the historic Oxford and Cambridge Far Eastern Expedition of 1955 (a six-month journey from London to Singapore, commissioned by David Attenborough) – will be in attendance, with many Landy buffs sure to flock to it for a photo or two.

The celebrations will officially begin on Good Friday, April 7, with an action-packed weekend consisting of navigation trials, off-road trials, tag-along tours to visit local sites of interest, live music, and a gala dinner. The majority of the event will be held at the Cooma Showground including swap meets, interviews, book signings, and a show and shine.

The grand parade will take place on Easter Sunday, April 9, with the convoy of registered vehicles to journey down Sharp Street to the Cooma Showground. The event will conclude with a farewell breakfast at the showground, on Monday, April 10.

More than 700 Land Rovers are expected to gather for the celebrations. For more information, visit the Cooma Car Club.

The 2023 LDV D90 large SUV has received a price rise of up to $3550.

First launched in 2017, the seven-seat, body-on-frame D90 is due for an update in the coming months, as LDV has recently unveiled a restyled version of the SUV in its home market, with further price rises likely.

In pre-update form, it is available in two variants – Mode and Executive – priced from $38,990 drive-away with the option of a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol or diesel, and two- or four-wheel-drive.

The LDV D90 – based on the T60 dual-cab ute – competes with other ute-based large SUVs in Australia, including the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X.

1

JUMP AHEAD

• 2023 LDV D90 pricing
• 2023 LDV D90 features
• Colours
• Engine, drivetrain, and fuel economy
• Safety
• Dimensions
• Warranty and servicing

1

2023 LDV D90 pricing

All prices are drive-away.

1

2023 LDV D90 features

Mode

Executive 2WD

Executive 4WD

1

Colours

Engine, drivetrain, and fuel economy

Under the bonnet, the LDV D90 is available with two engine options: a 160kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine or a 158kW/480Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine.

The petrol engine is matched to a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, while the diesel is paired to an eight-speed unit.

1

The LDV is available with either two-wheel-drive (Mode and Executive petrol) or four-wheel drive (Executive petrol and diesel).

Diesel variants have a 3100-kilogram braked towing capacity, while petrol models are limited to 2000kg.

All versions of the D90 have a 750kg unbraked limit and a maximum 200kg tow ball download.

A 74-litre fuel tank is fitted across the LDV D90 range. 95RON premium unleaded or higher is required for the petrol D90.

1

Safety

The LDV D90 is covered by a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted in 2017.

This rating will expire at the end of 2023, in line with ANCAP’s newly-introduced six-year date-stamp limit.

Six airbags (dual front, side and curtain) feature across the lineup, including coverage for third-row passengers.

Back to top.

1

Dimensions

The LDV D90 is 5005 millimetres long, 1932mm width and 1875mm tall, with a 2950mm wheelbase.

It has a 210mm ground clearance and a 550mm wading depth.

2023 LDV D90 boot space

LDV claims the D90 has an 1140-litre boot capacity with the rear seats in position.

Folding the second row increases luggage capacity to 1800 litres, while there’s 412L of storage with all seats in use.

Back to top.

Warranty and servicing

As with several other LDV vehicles, the D90 is covered by a five-year/130,000-kilometre warranty, with roadside assistance for the duration of this period.

LDV’s latest vehicles – the Mifa people-mover and the MY23 T60 Max ute – have extended seven-year/200,000-kilometre coverage, but this has yet to be applied across its lineup.

Servicing for the D90 is required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever occurs first.

LDV doesn’t offer a capped-price servicing program for the D90.

Back to top.

Camping can be an enjoyable and exciting experience, not only for humans but for our furry friends as well. However, many pet owners often neglect the comfort of their pets when they go camping, which can result in a less enjoyable experience for both the pet and the owner.

This is where the Woof Den by 23Zero comes in, as it offers a comfortable and practical solution for pets to have their own space and shelter during camping trips.

1

The Woof Den is designed to provide a safe and comfortable shelter for dogs while camping. It is made from proofed tear-check poly-cotton canvas, which is durable and able to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. The easy-action trigger-lock ridge pole makes it quick and easy to set up, allowing you and your dog to start enjoying your camping trip right away.

One of the most notable features of the Woof Den is the large arched entry with a canopy above, which provides shade and shelter from the elements. Additionally, the side screened windows offer proper ventilation, ensuring that your dog stays cool and comfortable even in hot weather. The fully welded PVC tub-style floor ensures that your pet’s bed remains dry and comfortable in rainy conditions, providing a safe and comfortable place for your dog to sleep.

1

The Woof Den also offers versatility, as it can be used for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnics, and beach trips. All you need to add is your pet’s own mattress, and you and your dog are ready for adventure.

The Woof Den by 23Zero offers a practical and comfortable solution for pet owners who want to ensure their furry friends have a comfortable and safe space during camping trips. It is a well-designed and durable shelter that offers the perfect balance of comfort and functionality for your furry friend.

23Zero Woof Den dog swag specs

Fuel Offroad, a leading manufacturer of aftermarket wheels for big pick-ups, has recently made an exciting announcement regarding its new range of Forged polished alloy wheels.These wheels are designed specifically to fit larger four-wheel drives, such as Ford F-Trucks, Chevy Silverado or RAM vehicles.

1

The Forged line-up from Fuel Wheels are machined from 6061 T-6 aluminium alloy monoblock forgings. This ensures the wheels are both durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for heavy duty use. In addition to their durability, the Forged wheels are also manufactured in the USA, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality.

One of the standout features of the Forged line-up is the fully polished finish on each wheel. This gives the Fuel Ventura a sleek and stylish look that is sure to make any big rig pop, whether it’s cruising around town or tearing up the tracks.

The Fuel Ventura FF116 Forged wheels are available in a range of sizes, from 20 inches in diameter all the way up to 26 inches. This means that you can find the perfect fit for your vehicle, no matter how big or small it may be.

These wheels are not only stylish and eye-catching, but they are also durable and high-quality, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their wheels.

Fuel Ventura FF116 Forged wheel specs

UPDATE: Want to see what the various iterations of the new Triton could look like?

Check out the renders we’ve created, and some extra information about where the next-generation Triton will go. We’ve imagined a battery electric variant as well as a hardcore Ralliart off-roader inspired by the below XRT Concept.

Our original story, below, continues unchanged

UPDATE 21 March: Mitsubishi Motors has unveiled the XRT Concept that directly previews the sixth-gen Triton, with the production version anticipated before March 2024.

Although it’s still in a sort of camouflage with its Ralliart livery, the XRT looks very similar to renders previously commissioned by 4X4 Australia.

The concept debuts with narrow split LED headlights and daytime running lights that give it a menacing look. Boldly flared wheel arches and a muscular shoulder line define the new Triton, though its kicked-up rear window and square arch design nod to the current MQ ute.

5

Mitsubishi’s XRT Concept has the look of a worked-over Triton including Ralliart decals – a rival for Toyota’s new, tougher HiLux Rogue, perhaps? Last year, Mitsubishi executives indicated that a locally-engineered hardcore Triton was in the works – though whether that’s this XRT pictured with its spare tyres and beefy roll hoop is not confirmed.

Triton’s powertrains are yet to be confirmed for the next-gen ute that will be built at Mitsubishi’s Laemchabang factory in Thailand. A hybrid version – almost certainly a plug-in – is anticipated, with a battery-electric possible down the line.

The Japanese automaker has promised a full reveal in ‘fiscal year 2023’ – which includes any time between April this year to March 2024.

1

“Fiscal 2023 is an important year for Mitsubishi Motors to accelerate our business in the ASEAN region, with the launch of a fully revamped Triton and an all-new compact SUV,” said Takao Kato, president and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors.

Triton’s Australian release will follow its unveiling in Thailand and beat its twin-under-the-skin next-gen Nissan Navara to the punch. It’s understood that Mitsubishi is taking the lead within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance when it comes to medium-sized utes.

“The all-new Triton is going through final touch-ups in preparation for its release, as we have performed rigorous endurance tests around the world while also incorporating the know-how gained from rally activities. With the new vehicle launches as the centerpiece, we will continue our drive toward further growth,” Kato-san added.

Below: The Triton in its current form

1

1

Below: The new Triton, spied and speculatively rendered

1

1

TAG Towbars and TJM have joined forces to offer buyers an extensive range of towbars and towing accessories at retail stores across Australia.TJM 4×4, which in 2023 is marking 50 years in the business, will now offer the full range of TAG towbars and accessories through its extensive spread of 4×4 stores.TAG has a range of towing products to cover all applications, with brands including its own Extreme Recovery and Heavy-Duty towbars, BRiNK European Towbars, and a wide array of accessories such as tow balls, hitch pins and tow ball scales, along with CURT brake controllers and cargo solutions, plugs and trailer adapters, and vehicle-specific wiring.

1

“Bringing on TAG Towbars, a market-leader themselves, as our official partner for towing solutions, is a sign of great things to come for TJM,” said Matt Logan, Head of Customer Experience and Retail Strategy.“With this partnership, we’re able to offer our customers an even greater range of unbeatable 4×4 accessories, for even more vehicle models, and ensure that we remain the number one destination for aftermarket 4×4 accessories.”

“For over 35 years, we’ve made it our mission to design and manufacture the best towbars and towing accessories imaginable” – TAG Towbars Chief Operating Officer, Mike Tomsett

1

TAG Towbars Chief Operating Officer Mike Tomsett added: “For over 35 years, we’ve made it our mission to design and manufacture the best towbars and towing accessories imaginable to handle the harsh Australian environment. Partnering with one of Australia’s premier 4×4 accessory manufacturers has been a long time coming for us, and we’re proud to announce that with this partnership that day is finally here.”The TAG Towbars range of towing products will be available at TJM’s 80 locations around Australia from the first quarter of 2023.

More info: www.tjm.com.au/towing

Bendix Ultimate 4WD disc brake pads are an affordable and easy way to improve the braking performance of 4WD vehicles, especially those with bigger tyres or extra weight.The brake pads are specifically designed for extreme conditions and are manufactured with Bendix’s premium Mechanical Retention System (MRS) and a high-tech ceramic formulation. The MRS tech enhances the strength of the brake pad, making it more durable and suitable for heavy duty conditions.

1

These brake pads are also engineered to work best with slotted rotors, delivering confident stopping in all conditions. The brake pads are suitable for a wide range of 4WDs on the Australian market, and they are ideal for those who need to tow heavy loads or traverse challenging terrain, providing high-temperature stability and excellent fade resistance.

Bendix also offers complete brake upgrades for those who require further braking performance. Initially, the Ultimate 4WD disc brake pads were exclusively offered in the Bendix Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade Kit, but they are now available for purchase separately.

So, if you want to improve your 4WD vehicle’s braking performance, Bendix’s Ultimate 4WD Disc Brake Pads are an excellent starting point that can provide better braking confidence on highways or 4WD tracks.

Bendix Ultimate 4WD disc brake pads specs

Ironman 4×4, a renowned manufacturer of off-road accessories, has recently expanded its range of accessories for the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series.The company’s all-new Atlas roof-rack platform system, designed specifically for the LC300, comes in two sizes: a full-length option, and a half-length option for those with a factory sunroof. The platform is constructed using durable materials, making it sturdy enough to carry heavy loads while withstanding the rigors of off-road use.

1

In addition to the Atlas platform, Ironman 4×4 also offers a wide range of accessories that complement the platform system. These accessories include gas bottle and jerry can holders, swags and soft luggage storage, as well as accessories to secure spare tyres and chainsaws.The gas bottle and jerry can holders are designed to keep fuel and other fluids securely in place during off-road adventures. The swags and soft luggage storage options provide ample storage space for camping gear and other essentials. The platform system also comes with accessories to secure spare tyres and chainsaws, ensuring that these critical items are always within reach when needed..

1

Ironman 4×4’s latest range of accessories for the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series provides off-road enthusiasts with a complete solution for carrying their gear safely and securely. With the Atlas roof-rack platform system and the wide range of accessories available, adventurers can now focus on enjoying their off-road adventures without worrying about their gear.

Atlas roof rack for 300 Series

Hulk 4×4, an aftermarket specialist, has introduced a new foldable steel ramp set to its range of accessories. The ramps are designed to assist in the safe loading and unloading of heavy equipment and can elevate vehicles up to 160mm.Sold in a set of two, the ramps have a total elevation capacity of 1500kg per pair (750kg per ramp), and a combined loading capacity of 500kg per pair (or 250kg per ramp).

1

They are easy to store, measuring just 900mm long x 250mm x 160mm when folded, and 2000mm x 250mm x 50mm when open. The maximum tyre size allowed is 650mm in diameter and 225mm in width. Straps are not included.Hulk 4×4 also offers heavy-duty ramps made of aluminium, which are suitable for loading UTVs, ATVs, golf buggies, ride-on lawn mowers, quad bikes, dirt bikes, motorcycles, and agricultural equipment. The ramps can withstand heavy loads and provide a secure platform for loading and unloading.

Additionally, Hulk 4×4 sells a range of lightweight levelling ramp chocks that are UV-resistant and durable. These chocks have grooves that lock in place to secure the tyre, providing a safe and stable platform for loading and unloading.

1

Hulk 4×4’s range of ramps and levelling chocks is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and safe solution for loading and unloading equipment or vehicles.

The foldable steel ramp set is a versatile and practical accessory that can be easily stored and used to elevate vehicles up to 160mm. Browse Hulk 4×4’s collection of ramps and chocks to find the right solution for your needs.

Hulk 4×4 2-in-1 foldable steel ramp set