An adjustable 1000 lumen camping light and Bluetooth speaker built into one? That’s exactly what OzTrail’s new Ignite 1000L Rechargeable Speaker Lantern is capable of, and we were super keen to try it.
We grabbed two of these lanterns and gave them a test during an overnight camping trip last winter and were amazed at how useful they were.
Anybody who has been camping in the long nights of winter knows how important campsite lighting is, because there’s nothing worse than trying to set up camp or cook dinner in the dark.
First up, the lighting side of things. The lantern features five adjustable light settings, so you don’t have to blind yourself. OzTrail say you’ll get five hours of runtime on high and a whopping 32 hours on low settings, in-between charges thanks to the lithium battery.
The body has hooks top and bottom, so you can hang it from just about anywhere, and the sturdy feet mean you’ve got to put a fair bit of effort in to knock it over.
The feature that sets this lantern apart from the rest is the Bluetooth speaker. It’s even easier to pair to your phone than most modern infotainment systems, and you can adjust the volume from your device with ease.
Despite the size, the speaker quality is surprisingly good. There’s no distortion if you’re into your doof-doof bass tunes, and if you have more than one lantern on site then you can pair them both to the same phone for a neat surround-sound experience. Sure, you won’t give a nightclub a run for its money with overall volume, but when you’re out on the middle of the whisper-quiet bush there’s really no need.
The lanterns are splash-proof, so you don’t have to worry if you get a bit of rain on them. They also come with their own USB charging cables, and there’s even a USB port on the back that makes the lanterns double as a power pack – so you can charge your phone while jamming out to some mad tunes!
We love these things. At $120 a pop, they’re no more expensive than any other good-quality Bluetooth speaker, but they also double as some seriously powerful lanterns and can even be used as a basic power pack in a pinch. Really, how can you lose?
AVAILABLE FROM: Oztrail.com.au RRP: $119.99
OZTRAIL RV DIRECTOR’S CHAIR
After a hard slog taming off-road tracks all day, it’s nice to rest up at camp around the fire in a comfortable chair. OzTrail’s new RV Director’s Chair has a wide, powder-coated steel frame and sturdy fabric with a padded seat and backrest, so it’s not only comfy but durable to boot. It’s king size means it’ll house portly folks too, and it folds flat for easy storage within a 4×4. It also comes with a sturdy side table with a cupholder that easily folds away when not in use. RRP: $149.99
OZTRAIL SUN LOUNGE
A comfy camp chair is one of the best remedies after a day spent bouncing on corrugations that would put vertebrae out of place. The new Sun Lounge Jumbo from OzTrail is a reclining, padded chair (extra wide padded seat and backrest), with an ergonomically shaped armrest that’s perfect for such occasions. It also features a side table with drink holder, adjustable headrest and a strong 19mm high-tensile steel tube frame.
OZTRAIL LUMOS 10P TENT
This 10-person tent is ideal for the next family getaway. With three large bedrooms sized to fit queen, double stretchers and airbeds, this tent provides adequate space to sleep the family in comfort. Features include integrated LED lighting built into the Fast Frame system; BlockOut coating on the fly; a Triple Hub Frame system; 3000mm waterhead rated Ripstop polyester fly; and Heavy-duty PVC-coated Polyoxford floor. Head to the OzTrail website for a full list of features. RRP: $1249.99
OZTRAIL IGNITE SPEAKER LANTERN
Your camp lantern is no longer just that with this new jobbie from OZtrail. The Ignite Speaker Lantern provides a hefty 1000 Lumens of bright white light, courtesy of its multiple LEDs, but it also acts as a campsite nightclub, thanks to the 3W RMS Bluetooth speaker. As well, it can be used as a powerbank, to recharge electronic devices. The recharging comes via its grunty internal 4000mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery. OZtrail claims up to a five-hour run-time if on the highest of the five light levels, and up to 32 hours if you set it to the lowest light output. As per OZtrail gear, this thing is built to withstand around-camp treatment and has an IPX4 (splashproof) protection rating. The carry handle helps make short work of the 672g weight, and it is also easily packed in your rig, measuring only 125mm x 176mm. RRP: $120
OZTRAIL CAPE SERIES BAMBOO TABLE
Be the envy of others at camp with this quality Cape Series bamboo table. The new Camp Series range of outdoor furniture features sustainably sourced bamboo that is weather resistant, easy to clean and environmentally friendly. This table in particular, has a lightweight aluminium frame; a two-panel design for maximum stability; adjustable legs for three table heights; adjustable feet for uneven surfaces; and leg locks with easy locking thumb tabs. The table is available in two sizes. RRP: $169.99 to $229.99
MORE INFO
COMPANION 45L TRANSIT FRIDGE
Outdoor adventure brand Companion recently released its new 45-litre Transit fridge, a lightweight and portable fridge/freezer tailor-made for camping and recreational use. The unit, constructed using tough-yet-lightweight polypropylene, features a dual-speed LG compressor, a three-stage battery monitor, strong carry handles, internal LED lighting, a digital display control panel, and AC and DC operation (240V and 12V/24V) – an AC power adaptor is included. The fridge/freezer is said to have an average power usage of 1amp per hour. It comes with a three-year warranty. RRP: $599.99
COMPANION AQUAHEAT GAS SHOWER
Spoil yourself with hot water anywhere, anytime, with the AquaHeat shower. The portable outdoor shower provides hot water in seconds and features an integrated rechargeable lithium battery, which can charge when the shower is in use via DC lead or AC adaptor (sold separately); a digital display control panel; a one-touch shower head control; quick-connect fittings; a built-in gas regulator with BOM connection; a Unique slimline design; and a brushless pump. RRP $524.99
COMPANION PROHEAT 2-BURNER STOVE
Aussie camp-stove specialist, Companion, has released this all-new low-profile stove for use in camper-trailer kitchens. Reflecting the brand’s knowledge of what’s required in a touring stove, this unit features a larger-than-usual cooking area, which makes using two pots at once a lot easier (and with less burnt fingers). The stove includes an impressive 18,000 total BTU output, easy heat adjustment, dual ignition, a handy LED cooking light, built-in windshields and a heavy-duty pot privet. It is bayonet-ready, and you also get a low-pressure hose and regulator. RRP: $240
COMPANION LITHIUM 75L FRIDGE/FREEZER
This robust unit from Companion features more than 24 hours of battery life from a single charge, thanks to its integrated/removable 12V 42amp/h lithium-ion battery. Said battery doubles as a power pack, with two USB ports. The fridge/freezer also features direct solar connections for an extended runtime; a dual-speed SECOP compressor; three-stage battery monitor; AC and DC operation (240V and 12V/24V); a digital LED display control panel; dual direction lids; internal LED lighting; and much more. The unit comes with a three-year warranty. RRP: $1779.99
CAMPFIRE 8L POTJIE POT
Just because you’re embarking on an off-road adventure doesn’t mean you always have to sacrifice a hearty, home-cooked meal. This 8-litre Potjie Pot is pre-seasoned and ready to use, so it’ll be kicking taste buds in to overdrive in no time. The pot features built-in cast iron legs to position in the fire coals; heavy-duty base and walls to provide even heat distribution; and a comfortable steel spiral carry handle. The pot also comes with a wooden storage box with rope carry handles for convenience. RRP: $189.99
MORE INFO
W: www.companionoutdoor.com W: www.campfirecook.com
Part 1: Woody buys an FJ40 Part 2: Minimalist outback touring
PART 1: WOODY BUYS AN FJ40
It seems being a Land Rover nut and then buying a classic LandCruiser is akin to barracking for both Carlton and Collingwood at the same time, or, if you’re into that other game, the Doggies and the Rabbitohs.
But while old Land Rovers seem to be popular with Instagram hipsters these days, I’ve always had a thing for old Toyota Land Cruisers. Growing up in the bush surrounded by them is probably the reason why, with trayback 45s and shorty 40s seeming to be on the periphery of my life for the past three or four decades. That said, I’ve never actually owned one.
Stateside, prices for old FJ Toyotas have gone nuts, but the sheer volume of Toyota tin on the ground locally has seen Aussie prices remain a little more realistic for the average enthusiast. I’ve always wanted one and have been keeping an eye on the market.
The thing is, I wanted a stock FJ, which is harder to find than you may think. I’d noticed really good examples were getting hard to find and had some pretty serious asking prices. Everything else with a realistic price tag was deep in the heart of project territory.
After a couple of false starts – which nearly saw me buy a diesel Series 1 Land Rover and a late-70s F100 4×4 with a period-correct motorhome installed on its chassis – the FJ40 you see on these pages appeared on my internet browser.
The young bloke I bought it off couldn’t tell me anything about its history, as he’d only owned it for 18 months. To me it looked like an older resto that was never quite finished, but, importantly, it wasn’t rusty or full of bog. It was presentable and I loved the FJ Cruiser Army Green hue, so I managed to negotiate quite a few grand off the hefty asking price and the deal was done.
Getting it on the road required a few minor bits and bobs like bulbs and lenses, an exhaust repair and new wheel cylinders. This truck originally had drum brakes all around, but somewhere along the line someone has thrown later model disc brakes on the front.
As luck would have it, I have an FJ Toyota guru about one kilometre from my house. Ray Saggal at Hendra Motors, Queensland, is an FJ nut, a bloody good mechanic and, as it turns out, a really nice bloke. Ray handled the brake work and, while we were at it, an electronic ignition was installed.
So now I get to bob along on my cart-sprung Shorty, constantly twitching the wheel to compensate for all the bendy bits and linkages that make up the FJ’s “unique” road-holding equipment. I’d say I’m doing so with a grin, but the smile usually only lasts until the next servo – that 4.2-litre 2F petrol engine may be tough, torquey and reliable, but it drinks like an old-school motoring journo.
If I’m to take this old banger any distance in the future, I reckon a long-range fuel tank may be on the cards. In the meantime, I’ll need to look at finishing off the interior and installing some sound deadening, because those 33-inch BFG muddies make this thing bloody loud.
I do plan to get it dirty, just carefully dirty. I’ve found there’s something quite stressful about taking a restored 4×4 off-road. So, for the most part it’s a mall crawler. That said, this truck attracts commentary wherever it goes; like so many classic cars, everyone seems to have an FJ Land Cruiser story. I get the feeling that this one’s a keeper. The garage is full, but I did see an awesome FJ55 the other day…
PART 2: MINIMALIST OUTBACK TOURING
Having nice things and being allowed out to use them isn’t something any of us can really take for granted at the moment.
Thankfully a window of opportunity presented itself recently, and both myself and my saintly wife threw some gear in to the shorty and bolted west for an outback adventure. Why saintly, you may ask? She not only tolerated nearly 4000km of outback travel in a short wheelbase, leaf-sprung tin can, she reckons she actually had fun.
You may point out that surely my diesel Perentie was the smarter option for eating outback miles, but until I tackle the high-range issues in the LT95, the little ’Yota is our only bush-driving option.
Anyone who owns a classic car will be familiar with the conversations they generate when you’re out and about. So, you can imagine the amount of old Toyota anecdotes I was assailed with in Western Queensland, from old ringers to former railways workers to other travellers lamenting that they’d sold theirs years ago.
As my significant other hails from the UK, she’s never really seen much of outback Australia, so my plan was to head west out of Brisbane in to the channel country, up through Diamantina Lakes National Park and … er … make the rest up from there.
But as anyone who owns a short-wheelbase 4×4 will tell you, setting up for an extended trip can make packing seem like an extreme sport. I’m not a huge fan of new-style roof racks on old cars, but practicality had to kick in at some stage. It also made fitting an awning possible and gave a spot to stash the swag.
The 2F-powered FJ also provided other challenges in the range and storage department. Being pretty much stock, the shorty is only equipped with a 60-litre under-seat fuel tank.
With the 4×4 accessories industry being flat knacker at the moment, picking up an aftermarket long-range tank wasn’t going to happen in my desired time frame. I ended up dependent on way too many jerry cans, which, unfortunately, all ended up on the roof rack, which isn’t great for vehicle dynamics on- or off-road.
A new water pump and stainless-steel exhaust system were fitted before hitting the road. I also gave the old girl a grease, oil change and a good check over before turning a wheel.
After a few days on the road in a SWB, you get in to a rhythm of unpacking and setting up. It really is amazing just how much you can fit in if you need to.
The sense of being remote didn’t hit us until we were trundling across Davenport Downs Station, as the cattle-specked horizon shimmered in the gibber plain heat haze. The Hunter Gorge campsite on the Diamantina is a great (if busy) spot to roll out the swag for a couple of days when there’s water in the system. The abundant birdlife wheels and dives against the backdrop of the Goyder and Hamilton ranges.
The shorty developed a misfire, which turned out to be as simple as a loose plug lead. After a visit to Boulia (and showers) we turned east and slowly wound our way towards a part of Queensland I’d never explored, the Central Highlands. The road from Injune to Mt Moffatt (Carnarvon National Park) is okay and sealed for about 100 or so kays, but quickly turns to an unsealed, rutted mess that had us crawling along in places.
The 4×4-only access track that leads to the Top Rotary campsite saw me lose a jerry can off the roof at one stage, but when you reach the site it provides stunning views south across the Great Dividing Range. It’s one of the best sites I’ve stayed at. The day-use lookout area above is accessed by a pretty gnarly climb that requires some commitment to scale in an old banger like mine; but once you get there, you have an awesome northern vantage point back towards Carnarvon Gorge.
While packing and unpacking requires a little time and effort, there’s something quite rewarding about travelling simply. A 50-litre fridge and an AGM-equipped battery box were our only real mod cons. There’s a freedom to just rolling out a swag, lighting a fire and cooking a roast on a shovel.
The Cruiser unsurprisingly did what Cruisers do; reliably, simply and maybe lacking a little finesse. Also unsurprisingly it used a lot of fuel, a fuel average of 27L/100km, with a highway cruising speed of 85km/h. A long-range fuel tank is most definitely in our future!
Total kilometres: 88,806km Date acquired: July 2020 Price (as tested): $18,500 Kilometres since last update: 3851km Average fuel use: 27L/100km
Excessive. It’s an interesting concept. In a land with thousands of different styles of 4x4s between the two coasts – dream builds that range from $5K Sierras with swags thrown in the back, to $200,000 Rams with carbon-composite canopies – every individual’s idea of excessive is going to be different.
The one thing we can all agree on, though, is it’s pushing the boundaries of the way things can and should be done. A bit bigger tyres, a bit more power, a bit more time painstakingly managing cables to make a dual-battery install. Excessive.
The 2014 SR5 Toyota Hilux you’re looking at now is one man’s idea of excessive. A concept pushed to the nth degree with painstaking attention to detail; making a vehicle his own personal work of art, where every cable clip is something to be proud of.
Jeremy Landt is the proud owner of this rig, and after buying it brand-new back in 2014, it’s not hard to see where the ‘XSESIV’ plates came from.
STOCK TO HOT
While the outside of the Hilux is impressive, under the bonnet is where things really get out of hand. Off the factory floor the 1KD turbo-diesel four-cylinder would have put out around 75kW and a little over 400Nm through a five-speed manual. Jeremy’s set-up now pushes out a monster 184kW and 656Nm thanks to an extensive list of modifications.
Sucking air in through the TJM snorkel, a Psico airbox and high-flow filter keep the F55 turbo fed. It then pushes through a hard-pipe kit and Psico front-mount intercooler. From here, an ECU=Shop Monster Max engine control unit and throttle control team up with +30 injectors before the spent gasses are fired backwards out a three-inch mandrel-bent exhaust.
The manual gearbox was swapped out for a factory-looking auto conversion due to strength concerns, and that’s tightened up further with an MV Autos HD torque convertor and HD valve body with a stand-alone YRS transmission control unit. PWR Coolers help keep the trans temps under control and Pajero Sport paddle shifters have been installed to help Jeremy bang through the gears.
SPRINGS ’N’ THINGS
On the suspension front, Jeremy has perfectly straddled the fine line between weekend warrior and hardcore tourer. Up front, Fox Shocks two-inch lifted struts give a boost in ride quality and altitude. To save the CV joints from grenading themselves under assault from 656Nm, Jeremy has fitted a Phat Bars diff drop to get the CVs back on a safer angle. They’re paired up with CalOffroad tube upper control arms, and PSR high-clearance CV boots let the suspension extend to full droop without anything rubbing.
Moving up the back, the stock springs have been replaced with 600kg constant-load-carrying leaf springs from EFS, while an airbag load helper allows Jeremy to dial the ride height in perfectly and level the rear suspension at camp. While the welder was out, a hybrid 80 Series/Hilux rear axle was pieced together, and a PSR chassis brace kit installed for maximum strength. A pair of matching Fox Shocks in the rear smooth out the bumps.
Shoehorned in to the wheel arches are 35-inch Maxxis RAZR Mud Terrains wrapped around 16×8 0-offset Fuel Boost alloy wheels – a 50mm body-lift kit giving the necessary clearance. DBA upgraded brakes help reign in the big mud tyres, with drilled and slotted rotors up front and upgraded drums in the rear.
Back on the outside and the Hilux has had an extensive overhaul with no expense spared. The tip of the spear is the iconic Muzz Bar up front. It’s colour-coded to the OEM Toyota silver with a blacked-out radiator hoop. Taking pride of place up top are a pair of laser beams disguised as driving lights, with a pair of Baja Designs LP9s front and centre.
Hiding beneath it, tucked inside the bar, is a matching Baja Designs S8 20-inch light bar ensuring Jeremy has ample light no matter how dark the tracks get. Poking out from the polished alloy fairlead is a synthetic winch line wrapped around 12,000lb of Runva pulling power.
Moving along the flanks, Jeremy has extensively up-armoured the Hilux. High-clearance bash plates from Phat Bars cover the Toyota’s soft bits, while Southern Cross Fabworks rock sliders sit high and tight to the body to not only make entry and exit easier but also guard vulnerable sill panels.
Up top, a flat rack from Rhino-Rack provides additional storage as well as housing many permanent accessories. A 40-inch Baja Designs S8 light bar occupies the front spot, while MaxTrax, a high-lift jack, shovel and Stedi camp lights fill out the rest of the rack.
PSICO BABBLE
Moving to the rear and the stock tub has been binned, in its place now lives a Psico canopy that’s every bit as modified as the Hilux it’s bolted to. On the nearside, the custom carpeted drawer system not only houses the pots and pans, but a full slide-out kitchen set-up from Dometic.
The trick unit houses a three-burner gas cooker no different than you’d find in a camper or caravan – there’s also a kitchen sink in there ensuring you’re never wanting for cooking gear. Moving back past the stereo set-up and there’s a Travel Buddy oven resting above a 12V coffee machine complete with milk frother.
Moving around to the far side and there’s bulk storage with the dog box, and an ARB Elements fridge on a Clearview drop slide. Back on the outside and shelter is provided under a 30 Second 270-degree wraparound awning, while camping duties are handled by a hard-shell Bush Company rooftop tent.
Eagle-eyed readers will spot the custom box mounted next to the spare tyre on the rear. It’s where the Joolca hot-water system lives, bringing all the comforts of home to wherever the Hilux is parked up for the night. It’s fed by an 80L stainless-steel water tank.
Keeping the whole system running late into the night is an extensive 12V set-up, so neat it looks factory fitted. The brain of the system is a Simarine vehicle monitoring system Jeremy has set up to give him info on everything from fridge temperatures and water tank levels to how much of an angle the Hilux was on when coming in to camp. The grunt of the system is a 200amp/h lithium battery from Hard Korr, kept charged by twin Projecta chargers.
The 25amp DC to DC charger keeps it topped up when the Hilux is moving, while a seven-stage 240V charger keeps it topped up at home. When the Hilux is parked up at camp a Victron solar regulator feeds juice in to the battery bank from the twin 120W solar panels mounted up on the roof. Jeremy has wired multiple 12V outlets throughout the canopy and tent, and 240V outlets fed by a PROJECTA 2000W invertor.
IN EXCESS
On the inside, Jeremy has taken that same excessive mentality to ensure he’s got everything he could possibly want all within arm’s reach. Taking pride of place is the factory-looking centre console where the manual gear shifter used to be. Strapped to the side are the various aftermarket control units, as well as a gear indicator.
Directly above it is a roof console from Department of the Interior. It houses the airbag and compressor controls, as well as an easy-to-read gauge so Jeremy knows exactly what’s going on up the back. There’s a full suite of Redarc gauges too, monitoring exhaust gas temps, trans temps, boost levels and oil pressure.
Up on the dash, a trick rear-view screen replaces the rear-view mirror with a second switchable camera pointing at the tow ball. A huge aftermarket stereo also got the nod, with a combination of Focal and Rockford Fosgate gear all being fed tunes from the PVS head unit.
Seeing the attentional to detail and constant pushing for that next-level gear, it should come as no surprise to see that XSESIV license plate turn in to a business doing plug-and-play 12V systems for 4x4s. If Jeremy’s personal rig is anything to go by, it’ll be a name you’ll hear more of over the coming years.
Nissan has unwrapped a new special edition variant of the Patrol in the Middle East to mark the nameplate’s 70th anniversary.
Initially based on the Willys Jeep, the Patrol first launched in Japan in 1951, before expanding to additional markets over the next decade – with the Gulf region receiving the off-roader in 1956.
Exclusive to the Middle East, the anniversary model is headlined by a number of additional styling and technological enhancements to set it apart from the regular Patrol.
These upgrades include; a bolder front grille, new-design 20-inch alloy wheels, extra chrome trimmings and a unique 70th Anniversary badge on the side vent. Additionally, the vehicle gains burgundy diamond-stitched quilted leather inside.
As for the broader 2022 Patrol range in left-hand-drive markets, the large SUV has picked up the same revisions as the recently-facelifted Armada sold in North America.
This includes a redesigned centre console with a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – as well as updated Nissan badging to reflect the marque’s new branding.
An improved set of 10.1-inch rear entertainment screens is also new for model-year 2022, with wireless headphones and screen mirroring options. An inductive smartphone charger is also available for the front seat passengers.
Unfortunately, constraints surrounding right-hand-drive production mean Australian buyers of the Patrol aren’t so lucky, with local examples likely to miss out on any major interior revisions for at least another two years.
The refreshed interior design is the second major change for the Middle East since 2011, with the large external facelift revealed in 2019 – which did arrive in Australia – also bringing larger screens and smartphone mirroring overseas.
Right-hand-drive units continue to largely utilise the same interior design as that found in the pre-facelift Patrol, which dates back more than 10 years – meaning technologies such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain unavailable.
Under the bonnet, the petrol-only 70th Anniversary range can be selected with either a 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated V6 producing 202kW of power and 394Nm of torque, or the same 5.6-litre V8 found in the local Y62 Patrol, which boasts more-powerful outputs of 294kW/560Nm.
UPDATE, September 13, 2022: New Ford Everest on sale, and we’ve driven it!
The new-generation 2023 Ford Everest is finally on sale in Australia, and our man Matt Raudonikis has driven it. Get the full story, and our first-drive video, at the link below.
The story to here
UPDATE, December 13: The 2022 Ford Everest has been seen driving on the streets of Thailand, with more of its front-end spied.
The latest Everest images, posted by the Kurdistan Automotive Blog, show the SUV in greater detail following the unveiling of its Ranger ute sibling late last month.
Ford manufactures both the Everest and the Ranger in Thailand, with the company investing $1.26 billion to upgrade its manufacturing facilities to help increase its annual output.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CXYq8Srsghn/
It’s believed to be the first time the Everest has been seen in Thailand, suggesting the model is nearing production readiness – though prototypes have been spied in both the US and Australia, including off-roading in the Victorian High Country alongside a camouflaged Ranger Raptor.
In recent days, artist Sascha Thilmany created digital renderings based on camouflaged spy photos, providing a glimpse of what we can expect when the Everest makes its debut.
The story to here
November 15: The 2022 Ford Ranger Raptor and Everest have been spied testing in Victoria’s rugged High Country, ahead of the reveal of the standard Ranger on November 24.
These photos, posted to the Vic High Country Trips, Info, Vehicle Setups Facebook group by user Warren, show the new Ranger and Everest testing a suite of ARB accessories – in addition to a left-hand drive Ranger Raptor.
The thinly-disguised Ranger and Everest models were fitted with a number of off-road parts, including; a front bull-bar, LED spotlights, antenna, snorkel, roof racks and tow bar. Meanwhile, the Ranger Raptor remained stock – apart from the addition of a snorkel – during the trip along the steep Blue Rag Range Track, near Dargo and Mount Hotham in East Gippsland, this week.
These spy photos follow an announcement by Ford Australia earlier this year that it will partner with ARB to supply accessories from the aftermarket giant for the Ranger and Everest through its dealership network, covered by the manufacturer’s full five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.
Providing our best look yet at the 2022 Ranger Raptor, we can see a set of chunky off-road tyres similar in design to the 285/70 R17 wheels on the current Raptor, as well as Fox suspension shocks.
In addition, the larger flared guards, high-strength aluminium side steps, unique F-O-R-D grille and separate black bumper bar are also set to carry over into the next-generation model.
Meanwhile, the camouflaged 2022 Everest is equipped with a set of bigger BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres and steel wheels in comparison to the regular tyres and alloy wheels that will be fitted to the production Everest in stock form, which is expected to be unveiled in early 2022.
Design wise, an evolution of the current rear-end design is seen underneath the camouflage, with LED tail-lamps and a larger tailgate.
As with the current Everest, the front of the next-generation model is virtually identical to the Ranger – albeit with a redesigned grille.
A set of twin exhaust pipes can be seen on the Ranger Raptor, which is rumoured to be fitted with the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel V6 found in the F-150, producing around 185kW of power and 600Nm of torque, for the Australian market.
The 2.7-litre turbocharged petrol found in the Bronco is also expected to feature on the Ranger Raptor bound for the North American market, meaning this left-hand drive example could instead feature petrol V6 power – rather than the diesel V6 bound for Australia.
While the diesel V6 is likely to be available on selected Ranger and Everest variants, the 157kW/500Nm 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel from the current model is tipped to carry over largely unchanged across the broader line-up.
A single turbo version of the 2.0-litre diesel engine is also expected to replace the ageing 2.2-litre mill found in the outgoing Ranger, while the 3.2-litre five-cylinder diesel will also be dropped from the next-generation range.
The engines are expected to be mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, with no word on whether, or where, a manual transmission will be available.
Our earlier coverage of the next-generation Ranger and Everest indicates each model might pick up a rotary gear shifter, where drivers shift from ‘park’ to ‘drive’ in a clockwise motion.
An electronic parking brake will also be fitted on selected Ranger variants and across the Everest range, owing to the expected fitment of rear disc brakes.
Lower-grade Ranger variants are tipped to forego the modern rotary dial and electronic parking brake, instead offering a regular shifter and manual hand brake lever.
A large portrait-orientated touch screen featuring Ford’s latest ‘Sync 4’ infotainment system is also anticipated on upper grades of the Ranger and Everest.
Stay tuned to 4X4 Australia on November 24 as the covers come off the next-generation Ranger (6pm AEDT).
After selling his well set-up but ageing GU Patrol, our man Stuart picked up a 2015 Prado GXL that had served its life to date as a suburban car that had never been off-road. As such, it had no off-road accessories fitted, so Stu was left with a blank canvas that needed some gear fitted. The first item on his list was to update the electricals to run a second battery, to allow him to run some accessories.
“It was once philosophised to me that the Aussie bloke lives on meat and beer,” says Stu. “If your vehicle electrics aren’t up to scratch or fail while in the bush, then your trip is stuffed.
“The advice was: use good quality components, cables, fittings and battery, as you don’t want it to fail when you need it. Warm beer and those back-up cans of beans sure won’t be that appealing.”
Looking for quality kit, Stu went for a Projecta Intelli-Charge 25amp DC/Solar charger to build the system around.
“The Projecta charger suited my needs perfectly,” says Stu. “It’s a step up from the old isolator set-up on my Patrol and it allows solar and alternator feed, with intelligent three-stage charging.”
The Projecta unit is resistant to shock, heat (up to 80°C), vibration, dust and water, so it’s able to be mounted under the bonnet of the vehicle. It comes with all electrical connections, fittings, cable ties and heat shrink for the install, but, to complete the job, you need the cables and fuses to connect to your batteries plus the second battery itself.
A quick search online found a kit designed to help fit the Projecta Intelli-Charge, with all the cables, fuses, convoluted tubing and heat shrink – and it even included an Anderson plug for the solar input.
“Hey, I am not an electrician by any stretch of the imagination, but I got the job done painlessly,” Stu recalls. “With a crimping tool, soldering iron and some patience, it took me a day or so to get it all sized up and ready.”
The fitting of the unit itself was really straightforward using a mounting bracket specific for a 150 Prado that was bought online. This mounts the unit at the front of the engine bay behind the grille, from where it’s easy to run the cables through to the batteries. It took around an hour or so to bolt the unit in place, then connect up to the batteries.
A big plus in choosing the Prado is that it is one of the few relatively new-ish 4x4s available that has under-bonnet space for battery number two. It sits at the front of the engine bay at the opposite side to the starting battery.
The chosen auxiliary battery is a Century N70T deep-cycle unit that fits neatly in the front of the car.
To best be able to consume the new-found power from the back of the Prado, Stu chose a Narva heavy-duty surface-mount twin socket outlet and replaced one of the outlets with an Engel-style plug socket.
“I chose the heavy-duty surface mount sockets from Narva over the flush panel mount as I wanted to keep things out of the way, and this unit is as neat as a pin. There is an access storage space for I don’t know what, in the left-hand side rear panel just above the jack, and the space looks made for this.
“The unit came with two standard cigarette lighter outlets and an LED Volt meter, so I can keep an eye on the battery charge. I replaced one of the standard outlets with an Engel plug for my fridge, as they screw in and endure the rough and tumble of off-roading better. The Narva unit came with a couple of sturdy mounting screws to make fitting easy.
“The system is completely set and forget,” adds Stu. “Thanks to lockdowns, we’re yet to get away with it, but so far, I am making plenty of friends during long days at junior cricket, where I have power on tap to charge phones and cool drinks in the fridge.”
AVAILABLE FROM: Auto parts stores and www.projecta.com.au RRP: Projecta ICD25 – $455; Narva Twin socket mount – $87; Narva Engel-style plug – $28.90
Key Points
- Jeep showcases technologies that could join the range in the future
- Includes an augmented-reality HUD, off-road vehicle-to-vehicle communication
- Unveiled during the Stellantis Software Day event earlier this week
Jeep has unveiled a host of ‘concept features’ that could be offered on its next-generation range.
The new technologies were shown in a video published by the automaker, titled ‘Freedom Connected’.
The clip hints at what is to come for the brand and is headlined by an off-road navigation system with over 6000 pre-loaded trails, as well as the ability to communicate with other Jeep drivers – even without an active mobile service.
This compatibility includes a ‘Group Ride’ feature that can show the location of other Jeep drivers within an off-road party and provide information about their vehicle – including any modifications that have been fitted, the colour of the car, and where the owner resides.
In addition to connecting with known Jeep drivers, the vehicle-to-vehicle functionality can also extend to unknown motorists, which could be handy if a vehicle is lost or broken down off the beaten track.
Drivers can also acknowledge Jeeps surrounding them by sending a digital wave via a concept version of the built-in UConnect 5 touchscreen – an Android-based infotainment system set to debut in Australia next year on the new Grand Cherokee.
Another addition is an augmented-reality head-up display (HUD), which can project relevant information onto the windscreen with greater detail than a traditional HUD.
As demonstrated in the video, the augmented-reality display can be used to show aspects such as vehicle speed, navigation data, and off-road information. It also suggests the charging status of a plug-in hybrid or full-electric 4×4 could be displayed on the windscreen projection.
Over-the-air software updates could also allow upcoming models to gain additional features beyond the showroom, much like a Tesla vehicle. The ability to update the software wirelessly is available on the new Grand Cherokee, although it is limited to aspects of the infotainment system (such as map updates) rather than the vehicle as a whole, as showcased here.
Although these are purely conceptual developments, Jeep’s parent company Stellantis announced plans to introduce subscriptions for certain vehicle functions and three new technology platforms powered by artificial intelligence – STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit and STLA AutoDrive – earlier this week.
As part of a push to raise €20 billion (AU$31.65bn) in revenue from its vehicles by 2030, the conglomerate also confirmed future models will include a new ‘proactive’ digital assistant – with companies such as Foxconn, Waymo and BMW stepping in to assist with various aspects of the software offensive.
UPDATE, December 12: More renderings of the 2022 Ford Everest have emerged, allowing us to see what the four-wheel-drive might look like when it’s set up for the bush.
These digital creations by artist Sascha Thilmany imagine what the new Everest could look like when the camouflage is removed, when the vehicle eventually lands in Ford dealerships across the country.
However, one version has been modified with aftermarket wheels and tyres, a bull bar with Warn winch, bash plates, LED spotlights, awning, and UHF, as well as some gear for camping stashed on the roof basket.
Also included in this image gallery are renderings by SRK Designs and KDesign, all of which provide a slightly different take on the new Everest.
Let us know which one you prefer in the comments section below.
The story to here
November 30: The 2022 Ford Everest will venture into new ground when it’s released next year, with the four-wheel-drive set to benefit from a turbo-diesel V6 powertrain.
As the Everest will be based on the recently-unveiled Ranger ute, the model is expected to be fitted with the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel Power Stroke V6 engine, making the Ford the sole six-cylinder option and the most powerful four-wheel-drive in the ute-based category.
These renderings by illustrator Theottle provide an idea of what we can expect when the new-generation Everest is unveiled.
Despite the Power Stroke producing 185kW and 600Nm when it was fitted to the F-150 pick-up – compared to the 227kW and 700Nm from the turbo-diesel V6 found in the new LandCruiser – Ford’s new engine could end up causing headaches for Toyota across the board.
While the outgoing Ranger has been nipping on the heels of the Toyota HiLux – Australia’s best-selling passenger vehicle for the past five years – a V6-powered Everest could overtake the Toyota Kluger for annual sales, while also stealing buyers away from the ageing Prado and costly LandCruiser 300 Series.
Those wanting a capable four-wheel-drive with a powerful engine may gravitate towards the Everest, with the outgoing model priced from $50,090 – compared to the much larger LandCruiser, which is priced from $89,990, both before on-road costs.
The Everest and LandCruiser may be significantly different on paper, but new-car buyers could cross-shop the two models if the additional cabin space of the Toyota isn’t required, such as with grey nomads who often tow caravans.
Let us know what you think: Would you consider buying a V6-powered Ford Everest instead of a V6-powered Toyota LandCruiser?