The 4×4 of the Year award is the longest running and most acclaimed accolade for new off-road vehicles in the country, spanning more than three decades of the best off-road vehicles to come to the market.

Over that time the award has gone to the biggest marques in the industry including Land Rover, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Nissan, Jeep and Ford, with judging from some of the most respected and well-travelled writers in the industry.

4×4 of the Year is back in 2025 and, as we have done in the past, we whittled down the field of eligible new vehicles based on our testing and reviewing all the possible contenders over the past few years.

This allows us to select just six finalist vehicles to take part in a week of testing and evaluation, where we score each vehicle against the established criteria to find a winner.

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4×4 of the Year criteria

Value for money

Judged according to a vehicle’s equipment level, safety features and price relative to its direct competitors. Just because a vehicle has a high price doesn’t mean it’s not good value in the same way a cheap car doesn’t always represent good bang for your buck.

Breaking new ground

Refers to advancements in technology and design. How a vehicle has raised the bar in the class it fits in and taken 4x4s to a higher level. If a vehicle has the latest safety features, worthy engine technology or an advanced driveline, it will score well here.

Built tough

This refers to how strong a vehicle is and how well it will cope with the rigours of tough off-road driving environments. Will it be up to the task of carrying loads and outback travel, or fall apart at the first hurdle?

Bushability

This is how well a vehicle is equipped for off-road travel. Suitability of the standard tyres for rough roads, touring range, available accessories and underbody protection are just some of the factors considered here. Is this a vehicle you would choose to drive around Australia the rough way, or is it best left to the suburbs?

Doing the job

Judged according to a vehicle’s design brief. Does a luxury vehicle have all the latest in comfort and convenience features and do they work in the real world? How well a ute carries a load, or a seven-seater accommodates a family, will all come into play here.

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How it works?

We’ve split the six wagon finalists down the middle based on awarding best vehicle costing less than $80,000 and best costing more than $80,000.

Over the decades, the 4X4OTY award had been split over various price brackets as the prices of new vehicles continued to get higher, and also between 4×4 wagons and utes as the technology and features of each varied over time.

For its 2025 return, we’ve also split the field between wagons and utes, with the former making up this first test and the workhorses to be judged later in the year.

At the end of a week of testing both on and off road, our team of testers – Matt Raudonikis, Dave Morley, Ron Moon and Dex Fulton – score each of the vehicles against each of the five criteria to give each car a score out of 50. The car with the highest combined score wins, nothing else comes into the outcome.

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The contenders

Ford Everest Sport

The second generation (for Australia) Ford Everest has been with us for three years now but wasn’t released the last time we did a 4X4OTY test. In those years the Everest has become the best-selling medium-size 4×4 wagon in Australia outselling the previously unchallenged Toyota Prado which, in its defence, was between models as the 150 Series ran out and the 250 Series came on line.

But the Everest rides high on its merits delivering a solid and spacious family wagon with a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations, four-cylinder and V6 diesel engines, a capable chassis and drivetrain, and an easy to live with interior. We chose the Everest Sport as our finalist for that sweet V6 engine and high level of comfort and features while not breaking the bank on purchase price.

An interesting side note; when 4×4 Australia gave the 4X4OTY award to the first-generation of Everest back in 2015, it was the first time that a Ford vehicle had ever taken the title.

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GWM Tank 300

This is the first time we’ve had a vehicle from Great Wall Motors in 4X4OTY and with the Tank 300 it’s a well-deserved inclusion. The Tank 300 is a small wagon similar in size to the Jeep Cherokee so it fills a void in the market for buyers who don’t want or need a bigger 4×4, but for whom a Suzuki Jimny wouldn’t cut it.

As a smaller vehicle it’s priced accordingly but doesn’t miss out on features, while its front and rear lockers and relatively light weight make it an impressive rig in rough terrain. Our request for a Tank test vehicle came as GWM was introducing its new diesel-fuelled model of the 300, and it’s this vehicle that we have on test here in Ultra specification.

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INEOS Grenadier Trialmaster

It’s not often that an all-new brand comes into the specialised 4×4 market, let alone one built on a traditional ladder frame chassis with live axles and coil springs front and rear, and genuine off road credentials. This made the Ineos Grenadier one of the most talked about new vehicles of 2024 and one that was on the shopping lists of many buyers.

Available in three model grades with the choice of petrol or diesel engines, we’ve gone with the Grenadier Trialmaster diesel as it is the best equipped model for off-road touring in Australia.

An as-tested price of $124,356 makes the Ineos the most expensive vehicle among our finalists; will the Grenadier have the firepower to live up to its price tag and high expectations?

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Nissan Patrol Warrior

The Nissan Patrol Y62 might be one of the oldest vehicles on our test but it’s the one that consistently puts ear-to ear smiles on the faces of our drivers. So why is it here? The Nissan Patrol Warrior is a new variant of the Y62 co-developed by private engineering firm Premcar to improve its overall off-road performance; and the results are a huge success.

With more ground clearance, improved suspension, taller all-terrain tyres, a host of styling and comfort upgrades, and a bi-modal exhaust system bellowing the sound of that sweet V8 engine out the side, the biggest wagon in our field was a favourite.

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Toyota Prado Altitude

From the oldest vehicle in the field to the newest, the 250 Series Toyota Prado has been one of the most highly anticipated new models of the last couple of years, only arriving late in 2024. The 250 Series is almost all-new with the engine being the only major component carried over from the old model, and even that has changed with a 48-volt mild hybrid assistance system.

In the five model 250 Series Prado range, the Altitude is the variant targeted the most at off-road touring with all-terrain tyres on 18-inch wheels, a rear locking differential and a disconnecting front sway bar all adding to its capabilities in the rough. Also important is that the Altitude only has five seats so the rear cargo area is left without the hugely compromised third-row seats taking up valuable space.

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Toyota LandCruiser 76

While we’re talking about the age of vehicles, the 70 Series Toyota LandCruiser is certainly the elder statesman of the new-car fleet, marking 40 years in production last year. The model’s ongoing evolution and improvements have kept the 70 Series current and it is one of the most rugged and off-road focused vehicles money can buy today.

A new driveline was fitted to the 70 Series range in 2024 with Toyota’s venerable 1GD 2.8-litre turbo-diesel slotted into the engine bay and backed by an automatic transmission for the first time in decades.
We’ve got the GDJ76 GXL LandCruiser here on test; it’s simple, basic and capable but has it got what it takes to be our 4X4 Of The Year?

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What’s missing?

With only six positions available among our wagon finalists, there had to be some worthy exclusions.

The toughest one to leave out was the Lexus GX550 Overtrail as it impressed us immensely when we drove it back in 2024. But with two other Toyota products already in the mix and one of them being the more popular Prado that is based on the same platform as the GX550, the Lexus narrowly misses out.

It’s a similar story with the LandCruiser 300 Series which won the best wagon accolade the last time we did 4X4OTY. But when we compared the LC300 GR Sport with the Patrol Warrior in 2024 the Nissan came up trumps and so earned its place over the Cruiser.

GWM’s Tank 500 is a midsize 4×4 wagon with a touch of luxe that you could say competes with the Lexus GX but at a lower price. It was on our reserve list but we felt the more rugged Tank 300 would better represent the GWM brand amongst the other 4X4OTY contenders.

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The previous generation of Jeep’s Grand Cherokee won 4X4OTY a few years back and a new generation of the model was launched since we last conducted the test. But the new Grand Cherokee has lost all the things that made the previous model so appealing and one of Jeep’s best ever selling vehicles in Australia, so sadly ruled itself out this time around.

Like the LandCruiser 70 Series, the Jeep Wrangler got a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine in 2024 but it wasn’t enough to get the iconic model into this year’s list of finalists.

Land Rover vehicles have been well represented among our 4X4OTY winners in the past and in recent years LR has made changes and refinements to its engines across the range but there’s been nothing significant since the new Defender arrived on the scene; we wait in earnest. Models like the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, as great as they are, have become too luxurious and high priced to be serious 4X4OTY contenders.

The Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior is set to expand its international presence, with the Premcar-developed hero ute to launch in South Africa by the end of April 2025.

The joint collaboration between Nissan Australia, Nissan South Africa and Premcar will see the PRO-4X Warrior arrive in South Africa with a number of significant changes tailor-made for the South African market.

These changes include a new chassis tune optimised for South African roads, consisting of newly engineered and developed suspension springs and dampers; Warrior-style 17-inch alloy wheels; Maxxis RAZR all-terrain tyres suited to local conditions; a unique front bumper bar design and assembly; wheel arch flares; and Warrior-branded front seats. It will remain powered by the 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine producing 140kW and 450Nm.

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“We launched the Warrior by Premcar program in 2019 with the Navara N-TREK Warrior, a vehicle that immediately resonated with our passionate Navara owners, and set new benchmarks for a locally enhanced ute in Australia,” said Andrew Humberstone, Vice President and Managing Director of Nissan Oceania.

“We then saw the international potential which was first realised with the introduction of the Navara N-TREK Warrior in New Zealand, sharing the same refinements as the Australian model. We’re thrilled to see this Australian initiative now launch in the South African market with the Navara PRO-4X Warrior. As any Warrior owner in Australia can attest, South African drivers are in for something special.”

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To ensure the venture runs smoothly, will expand its operations by setting up a joint venture with South African local firm, AIH, with all remanufacturing to be conducted at a Nissan production facility in Rosslyn, South Africa.

“While the vehicles will of course be slightly different, the end result will be the same; a ute that feels perfectly suited to South African conditions, and one that broadens capability without ever sacrificing comfort,” says Premcar CEO, Bernie Quinn.

“This isn’t just important for us, but for the Australian automotive manufacturing industry across the board. We’ve known that Australia is home to some of the brightest automotive minds on the planet, and we can’t wait to show the world what we can do.”

We’ve been agonising over the decision for the better part of two hours, and I can procrastinate no longer.

Brad, Josh and myself have half walked, half swum the Pascoe River, crossing more times than I can count, and it’s finally my time to bring the Gladiator across the sizeable flow of water.

As I inch down into the current while simultaneously spooling in the winch line I run through the list of reasons I really don’t like this crossing. Firstly, it’s deep. Wading across proved the main channel to be up to my belly button, and when I stepped in the occasional hole it quickly nudged my armpits. Comparing this to the bonnet height of the Gladiator, I fully expect to rely on my snorkel for this one.

Secondly, the riverbed is littered with large boulders, making the bottom extremely uneven and unpredictable.

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Though we have tried our best to scout the best line through the boulders, and even moved a few around, the sunlight and the fast flow make it very difficult to see through the water from the driver’s seat. Any of the larger boulders could easily hang up a diff or lower control arm, stranding me in the deep water.

Thirdly, the river is really flowing. This is by far our biggest concern, and we are all worried about the possibility of the water pushing us downstream, over a row of boulders and into much deeper water.

We’re hoping to avoid this at all costs, and I keep the winch line so tight it actually moves the Jeep. I’m really hoping the tension on the line will at least keep the nose of the Jeep pointed in the right direction.

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Finally, there might be crocodiles in this river. I don’t just mean little freshies, either, I mean their much larger and toothier salty cousins. It’s insane this is the last reason I don’t like this crossing, but that is an honest review of the situation. The depth, boulders and flow are more concerning at this point in time than man-eating crocodiles.

I inch forward over a few more boulders and can hear nothing other than sloshing water as it slowly begins to flow up and over the front of the bonnet.

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The Frenchmans Track

Pushed through the jungle and scrubland, Frenchmans Track was probably built in the 60s to access the Iron Mountain Range during a rush of gold mining exploration.

To this day Frenchmans remains as one of the more challenging four-wheel drive tracks in Far North Queensland, only a stone’s throw from the northern tip of the Australian continent. Traversing the entire track involves crossing two major rivers, the Pascoe and the Wenlock, which change in depth and flow dramatically over the seasons.

Even during our visit in the ‘dry’, when it isn’t supposed to rain much, the depth of the river can change by several feet in a matter of hours.

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Only the most well-equipped vehicles tackle Frenchmans, and it would be foolish to attempt this one solo. With safety and vehicle recovery in mind, we team up with Josh and Georgie in their Troopy and Brad and Kristy in their very flexy GU Patrol ute.

We last tackled the CREB Track together, where Josh demonstrated he has no fear of monster wheel lifts, and Brad demonstrated his love of using his right foot. No matter what happens on this one, I am certain it won’t be boring.

We rendezvous at stunning Chilli Beach in Iron Range National Park, one of Australia’s most isolated and northerly beaches. At only 12 and a half degrees latitude south, we’re so close to the equator that this part of Australia looks like a tropical paradise, complete with white sand, turquoise ocean and an abundance of palm trees laden with wild coconuts.

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Unfortunately, at these tropical latitudes we also have to contend with the local inhabitants: monster saltwater crocodiles and deadly jellyfish. It’s a sad irony that the more tropical and stunning northern Australia becomes, the more deadly the water is.

Though the air and water are both at perfect bath temperature, the water is absolutely off limits, and we all stay well clear to give the salties a wide berth.

On a happier note, after a short walk along the white sand I have a handful of perfectly ripe coconuts, and with the help of a metal stake I husk them in a few minutes each. Soon we have a heaping pile, and we take turns drinking the delicious milk.

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And while the milk is delicious, I have always loved the firm white flesh, and soon I have an enormous zip-lock bag stuffed full. Keeping it in the fridge provides the perfect road snack during these hot and sticky days, and I stash plenty more husked nuts in the back for good measure.

In the late afternoon the wind whips up a fury, so we move back into the shelter of the tropical jungle to camp, and right at dusk Georgie spots a family of cassowaries scratching around in search of dinner, complete with a fuzzy little black and white chick.

It is extremely rare to spot cassowaries in the wild, especially with chicks.

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On The Trail

After airing down and a quick team meeting, we make good progress for the first couple of hours through large wombat holes and deeply rutted sections of track. On the straighter sections the track is badly corrugated, forcing us to keep the speed down.

The jungle gives way to dry and dusty scrubland with commanding views over the Iron Range mountains. As we move deeper into the track we begin to encounter enormous grey termite mounds.

These towering dirt columns are often taller than me, and are built by billions of termites to serve as their home high above the seasonal monsoon rains. The architecture of these mounds has been studied for decades, and they are built perfectly oriented to the points of the compass to maximise cooling and minimise heating from the sun.

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Across Northern Australia termites build their nets in a variety of designs, each perfectly adapted to the particular environment in which they are located.

The deeply rutted sections of track and large wombat holes are the perfect opportunity to show off the immense flex of the Gladiator, and with Katie at the wheel the big Jeep easily crawls through every obstacle while the cab barely tilts. It’s fascinating to watch the three vehicles take identical lines and come through with very different results.

While the articulation of the Jeep allows it to crawl forward with all four wheels always finding traction, the big Troopy can barely keep even two wheels on the ground, and more than once has to reverse and take a different line for fear of a roll over.

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We drop down a series of very rutted ledges, signalling our arrival at the mighty Pascoe River. In flood it is a rainy torrent many metres deep, and at very low water the rocks are exposed and it’s possible to walk across without getting wet feet. In either of those two extremes the decision to cross or not would be easy, and basically makes itself.

As we wade into the river, we quickly realize the decision we have to make sits somewhere in the infinite grey zone of maybe we should and maybe we really, really shouldn’t.

Josh and I are both reluctant to risk our vehicles, but Brad does not want to turn tail and backtrack. Eager to keep us moving forward, we all make a pact. Brad volunteers to go first, but if he makes it across relatively unscathed, we must follow.

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Swapping the order of the vehicles in the severely rutted track turns into a low-range 4×4 challenge, and after reversing as far as I can possibly go, Brad is barely able to squeeze up to the front of the line.

Josh wades across and secures Brad’s winch to a solid tree on the far side, and will act as spotter while also pulling in the winch line if it’s not needed. I’m at the rear of Brad’s truck with Josh’s winch spooled out and ready – if the signal is given I will jump into action and pull Brad’s truck backwards out of the river. After running over the plan multiple times and with everyone in place, the time is now.

Brad eases into the flow, and just as the depth starts to be a serious concern he uses his patented right foot technique and in a matter of seconds has crawled over rocks and out of the deepest section before soon reaching the far bank in one piece.

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While Josh and I are relieved everything went to plan, our adrenaline quickly begins to peak, because Brad’s successful crossing means we have to go next.

After resetting all the winch ropes, Josh lines up and soon a repeat performance plays out and he slowly inches into the water before rapidly moving up and out of the deepest section. From my vantage point at the rear the crossing looked straightforward, though later in the day Josh and Brad confirmed the fast flowing water nudged the LandCruiser sideways and it was a battle to keep it moving in the right direction.

Being last in the lineup means there is no backout plan for me, no matter what happens I’m committed to pushing through. I let the winch pull the Jeep for the first three or four feet, and just as the river starts to flow over the front corner of the bonnet I use a little throttle to climb up onto the biggest of the rocks.

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In low range first with both diff locks I have no trouble with grip, and I move forward up and onto the larger boulders with ease. I don’t feel or hear any undercarriage bangs or scrapes, and soon Josh is working overtime to pull in the winch line as I drive confidently through the river, arriving at the far bank unscathed, grinning like mad.

With a GoPro stranded on the far back I wade back through the water solo, and can’t stop thinking about crocs the entire time. When we were all in the water the danger seemed somehow less real, but all alone I feel particularly vulnerable.

Coming back for the final time I move as quickly as I can, trying to keep my nerves under control.

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Mudholes and washouts

After all the excitement we stop for a hasty lunch above the river before continuing on, feeling proud to have cleared such a large obstacle. With little idea of the track that lies ahead, we’re all certain we don’t want to turn tail and retrace our steps across the Pascoe.

As we push further north the vegetation continues to change, permanently leaving the tropical rainforest behind for dry and dusty red dirt that is caked on all the trees and plants that line the track. We tackle the occasional mud pit and soggy section, and all manage to keep enough forward momentum in the sticky stuff.

Later in the afternoon we arrive on the banks of the Wenlock River, which we quickly see is much wider and shallower than the Pascoe.

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This river is a little lower and a little swampier, and I can’t help feeling it looks a little more like croc habitat, so we all stay back from the bank and decide not to walk this one first.

In the vehicles we enter the soft sand one at a time before driving along the riverbed for a hundred meters. The bottom is very firm, and none of us has any trouble leaving the water before tackling a short and steep climb up and out of the riverbed.

The shadows grow longer as we tackle the final wombat holes and corrugations, before bursting out onto the Peninsula Development Road just as the sun kisses the horizon. As we air up and share high fives, the already stunning orange and red dirt road flashes into a stunningly bright display of colour.

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An adventure to remember

While dreaming of an Australian adventure I planned to tackle the hardest four-wheel drive tracks of my life, and Frenchmans was everything I dreamed of.

I pushed my personal limits, successfully fording the most technical river I have attempted. Experiencing how the Jeep handled the severely rutted and washed-out track was confidence inspiring, with all four wheels almost always glued to the track.We worked together as a team to overcome the challenges in our path, and I’m extremely happy with how well we communicated, planned and then safely executed each obstacle.

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I’m always thankful to spend time with people who approach difficult situations in the same careful and analytical manner as me, though I certainly learned a thing or two from Brad’s slightly more gung-ho approach.

Tackling Frenchmans with friends meant I could push harder than I’m comfortable with when out solo, and it also made for a lot of laughter and good times. If you ever find yourself in Far North Queensland, I highly recommend you take the detour and have a crack at Frenchmans.

• The Frenchmans Track is 179km long from Archer River Roadhouse to Moreton Telegraph Station
• There is fuel at the Archer River Roadhouse and Bramwell Junction RoadhouseThe best time to travel is May to October
• There is camping at the Archer River Roadhouse and Moreton Telegraph Station
• For navigation grab the Hema Cape York Atlas and Guide, and Hema Cape York Map

Our 4X4 of the Year awards make a long-overdue return to 4X4 Australia! And in 2025, we’ve split the award into two segments: Best 4×4 Wagon and Best 4×4 Ute.

First off the rank, we’ve lined up the top wagons – Ford Everest Sport, GWM Tank 300, INEOS Grenadier Trialmaster, Nissan Patrol Warrior, Toyota Prado Altitude and a 76 LandCruiser – to tussle it out for the title. The vehicles are scored against our trusted criteria – value for money; breaking new ground; built tough; bushability; and doing the job – and the final tally is nail-bitingly close.

Keep an out later in 2025 for our Best 4×4 Ute awards!

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We road- (and dirt-) tested the new-for-2025 Isuzu MU-X, with a new upmarket X-Terrain model added atop the model line-up in Australia. The MU-X remains powered by either the proven 3.0-litre and relatively new 1.9, but what is new is the addition of new interior and exterior features, new tech, and added safety.

Also tested in this issue is the new GWM Cannon, which has received a midlife makeover including a more powerful powertrain, improved tech and safety and a revamped interior. All-in-all, these changes culminate to represent a huge step up in terms of performance, comfort and style.

Speaking of new metal, we put Ford’s recently launched Everest Tremor through the off-road ringer. It may be built for off-road escapes thanks to its extra clearance and flex, but Matt reckons better value can be found at the lower tiers of the Everest line-up.

Work on our 79 Series build continues to intensify, with no signs yet of it slowing down! This month we installed an all-new, Aussie-made Scavanger Snorkel, which not only looks great on the Cruiser, but is said to be extremely quiet and is loaded with high-quality materials to provide ultimate protection for the Cruiser’s engine.

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Plus, we pointed our tyres towards some quintessential Australian locales this month, including the Frenchmans Track in Far North Queensland, and the New England region of NSW.

What else is there?

• Triton GLS and BT-50 GLS in the shed
• Bush Company awning tested
• Gripsport bike rack reviewed
• A closer look at DownUnderLust’s canvas products
• New products, news and more!

The April 2025 issue of 4X4 Australia magazine is out now!

Owning a LandCruiser 79 reinforces that you don’t buy one of these for their features and standard equipment, but for their durability and go-anywhere dependability.

The coolest 4×4 in our shed at the moment is our VDJ79 LandCruiser. Cool because it’s ours and we’re fitting great products to it to turn it into a great off-road tourer.

We can’t comment as to how this particular vehicle drove in standard form as we had the suspension, GVM and rear track correction/diff replacement all done pre-registration under the Second Stage Manufacturer (SSM) scheme. We had all this work done before the Cruiser was first registered so that it’s covered by SSM approvals and certified nationwide. By the time we got to drive it, it was already on the way to becoming a better-than-standard vehicle.

There’s no denying that the 70 Series LandCruiser is a basic workhorse. Even in this GXL trim, the interior is spartan and it’s hard to believe that a vehicle costing the best part of $100k on the road still doesn’t have any sort of phone mirroring or satellite navigation. Even basic HiLux models get better infotainment for a lot less money.

The interior is certainly liveable as the seats are good, visibility is great and the driving position suits me, but the infotainment and lack of storage or useable drink bottle holders is unbelievable at this price point. At least these are things that are easy to fix and there’s a swag of aftermarket gear available to remedy the problems.

We’ve had the Cruiser for six months now and it’s just clicked over 600km and will be ready for its first service soon. Usage has been getting the vehicle between workshops and out for a couple of photo shoots to show what’s been happening with it and these little adventures have reinforced our belief that the 79 is the best platform on which to build an off-road touring vehicle. It might be basic but there’s nothing else built as tough and dependable as the 70 Series.

Our drive in a 2.8-litre manual gearbox LC76 gave us a feeling of how the two engines available in the 70 compare. Yes, the 79 is bigger and heavier than the 76, and our 79 has performance-draining bigger tyres on it, but drive the two Toyotas one day after the other and it becomes obvious that the four-cylinder engine will outgun the old V8 to 100km/h.

While the oversize tyres might rob the LC79 of some acceleration, the light truck construction Maxxis muddies provide the confidence to drive over rocks and logs without worrying too much about tyre damage. Quality off-road tyres need to be the first part of every tourer build and we’ve always been more than happy with the Maxxis RAZRs.

Combined with the Terrain Tamer suspension upgrades the set-up we have now gives the confidence to tackle any terrain but the 79 has its limitations there too; thankfully the GXL comes with factory diff locks because it needs them. The heavy duty chassis that makes the 70 so tough and dependable doesn’t flex much and the leaf springs don’t provide a heap of travel either.

The Cruiser does have electronic traction control but that is disabled when you go into low range so when the rear axle picks up a wheel over regular erosion mounds, it’s left spinning wheels until you engage one or both of the diff locks. Even with just the rear diff locked, the Cruiser feels unstoppable.

We’ve still got a lot of gear to fit to our LandCruiser from some great suppliers and when it’s all done, we’ll be able to get out for a proper test.

The crowd-pleasing Nissan Patrol has reached a sales milestone, notching up its 250,000th Australian delivery.

Since its local arrival in 1961 in 60 Series guise, powered by the 4.0-litre six-cylinder P engine, the Patrol has evolved through multiple generations – MQ, the highly customisable GQ, the Y61 and the current Y62 – to become a beloved off-road vehicle.

“Few models reach legend status, and even fewer are still cementing that legacy today, but that’s exactly what the Patrol has achieved across each of its generations in Australia,” said Andrew Humberstone, Vice President and Managing Director, Nissan Oceania.

That legendary status was established when the vehicle first arrived on local soil, with the G60 completing the first motorised crossing of the Simpson Desert throughout a two-week odyssey from Andado Station in the NT to Birdsville in Queensland, in 1962.

Since those early days, the Patrol nameplate has strengthened with each generation. In 2024, Nissan posted a total of 8293 sales of its Patrol, which was a 6.2 per cent increase on 2023 where the brand shifted a total of 7812 units.

“Last year, saw Nissan Australia record its best sales on record for the Y62 Patrol and record the best sales for the Patrol nameplate since 2004. That momentum continues, with the Patrol achieving number one in its segment for the last three months,” added Humberstone.

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“What makes this milestone particularly meaningful is how Australia has shaped the Patrol. The best example of that is in Nissan showrooms now – the Patrol Warrior by Premcar. It’s a Patrol that is second-stage engineered for Australians, in Australia.

“While we like to think of the Patrol as legendary, so too are all of its owners, for it’s their stories, memories and adventures that have shaped the legend of Patrol in Australia, and continue to do so today.”

When tackling Australia’s toughest terrains, lighting isn’t just about visibility, it’s about confidence, safety and style.

Ultra Vision, a proudly Australian company, has taken vehicle lighting to the next level with its Integration and Behind-Grille kits. These kits allow you to add enhanced lighting to your rig in a seamless and stealthy way, while keeping the factory look you love. These kits are perfect for all types of vehicles, giving you much improved visibility without having the bulk of a bull bar.

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Designed for those who demand more

For every journey, high-performance lighting is essential to help you see and be seen.

Ultra Vision’s range of Integration and Behind-Grille kits offer impressive beam width and distance, so that you’ll never miss a thing on any drive. Plus, if you’re not a fan of traditional mounting solutions, these vehicle-specific kits allow for a seamless installation behind or within the grille, preserving your vehicle’s clean, original aesthetic while delivering industry-leading, powerful lighting.

Aussie-made for the toughest environments

Ultra Vision is at the forefront of LED vehicle lighting, engineering and manufacturing its products right here in Australia.

That means it knows what it takes to build a light that can withstand the harshest conditions, from searing outback heat to relentless downpours – its lights are known for durability, performance and precision. When you choose Ultra Vision, you’re not only getting premium power, but you’re also supporting Australian innovation and quality.

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The perfect fit for your vehicle

One of the many advantages of Ultra Vision’s Integration and Behind-Grille kits is the vehicle-specific mounting design.

Each kit is engineered for a hassle-free, plug-and-play installation that blends seamlessly with a vehicle’s looks and wiring. With kits already available to suit 25 models from 9 major vehicle manufacturers, there are many more on the way including for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Mitsubishi Triton MV, RAM 1500 DT, and Toyota RAV4, as the range continually expands to accommodate Australia’s most popular vehicles.

Each kit comes with everything you need including Ultra Vision Nitro Maxx or Raptor light bar/s, a wiring harness, mounting hardware, plug and play wiring adaptor and OE switch (dependent on vehicle model), and a fitting guide.

Here are a few of the best-selling kits that are already available 👇

Next-gen Ford Ranger Raptor Light Bar Behind Grille kit

Precision fitment and powerful lighting make this kit a must-have for Raptor owners looking to push their adventures further. Choose from either Nitro Maxx 105w 13-Inch LED lights bars or Raptor 165w 26.5-Inch LED light bars. View the kit

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Toyota 300 Series LandCruiser Behind Grille Light Bar kit

The LandCruiser is built for the outback, and with Ultra Vision’s behind-grille lighting, you’ll have superior lighting power for any journey with a Raptor 165w 26.5-Inch LED light bar. View the kit

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2023+ VW Amarok Behind Grille Light Bar kit (all models)

Sleek, stylish and incredibly powerful, this lighting solution is designed to enhance an Amarok’s capabilities. Choose from either a 1 x Raptor 165w 26.5-Inch LED light bar or 2 x Nitro Maxx 105w 13-inch LED light bars. View the kits

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2020+ Nissan Patrol Y62 Series 5 Behind Grille Light Bar kit

Tackle the toughest tracks with confidence, thanks to Ultra Vision’s high-performance lighting. Choose from a Nitro Maxx 155w 18-Inch LED light bar, Nitro Maxx 205w 24-inch LED light bar, Raptor 125w 20.5-inch LED light bar/s OR a Raptor 165w 26.5-inch LED light bar. View the kit

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Mitsubishi Triton MR (Nov 2018+) Behind Grille Light Bar kit

A game-changer for Triton owners, providing enhanced night-driving safety without compromising style. Includes 1x Raptor 165w light bar, view the full kit

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2021+ Isuzu D-MAX RG Behind Grille Light Bar kit

Tough, durable and designed to complement the rugged nature of the D-MAX. Choose from either a Raptor 125w 20.5-Inch LED light bar or Nitro Maxx 155w 18-Inch LED light bar. View the kit

Substance AND style

Ultra Vision’s kits aren’t just about looks – they’re designed for serious performance.

They offer the best of both worlds with effortless installation and uncompromised light output. By using advanced LED technology along with Ultra Vision’s patented optics, these kits provide outstanding brightness and beam precision for improved driving visibility.

With plug-and-play capabilities tailored to specific vehicle models, these kits eliminate the hassle of complex wiring or modifications. Sitting discreetly behind or within the grille, they deliver powerful lighting without the need to cut or drill, and the results mean your vehicle will look as slick as when it came out of the factory. The fact you don’t need a bull bar is not only an aesthetic bonus, it also keeps down any added weight and means that your new lights won’t interfere with sensors or your original headlights.

Whether you’re exploring remote tracks, towing a caravan across the country, or simply adding to your vehicle’s capabilities, Ultra Vision’s Integration and Behind-Grille Kits deliver the ultimate combination of form and function. Upgrade your vehicle today and get the power to light up the night.

Explore the full range now and be ready for your next adventure!

Australian pricing and specs have been revealed for the 2025 Ram 1500, with the Hurricane-powered US-bred pick-up set to be available in local showrooms next month.

Two variants will be available at launch, the Laramie Sport at $141,950 (before on-road costs) and the Limited at $159,950 (before on-road costs), with Ram stating that the MY25 models will join the MY24 HEMI V8-powered variants – Big Horn, Laramie and Limited – in dealerships, while stock lasts.

Comparatively, the V8-powered Ram 1500 is currently priced at $119,950 (Big Horn); $137,850 (Laramie); $141,950 (Laramie with RamBox) and $156,950 (Limited with RamBox).

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Both MY25 variants will be powered by a Hurricane twin-turbo in-line 3.0-litre six-cylinder, but will be offered in different states of tune. The lower-spec Laramie Sport will get a Standard Output (SO) version that generates 313kW and 635Nm; while the upper-spec Limited gets a High Output (HO) version of the Hurricane which produces 403kW and 707Nm.

Any reservations about the transition from V8 to straight-six power are quelled by the fact the Hurricane produces significantly more power and torque in either tune than the outgoing HEMI, which musters 291kW and 556Nm.

Breaking down the numbers reveals the SO Hurricane produces 7.6 per cent more power and 14.2 per cent more torque than the 5.7-litre V8; while the HO Hurricane generates a staggering 38.5 per cent more power and 27.2 per cent more torque.

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“We know a lot of people love the sound of the Hemi V8, but we think the Hurricane engines will become iconic in their own right,” said Jeff Barber, the General Manager of Ram Trucks Australia.

“With more power and more torque than the 5.7-litre Hemi V8, the Hurricane engines take the Ram 1500 – and, frankly, US pick-ups – to a new level of performance.

“Once people experience the power of the Hurricane engine series they will see what the fuss is all about.”

The MY25 update also introduces a suite of mid-life spec and tech advancements including new front fascia and grilles; a 14.4-inch infotainment screen; an interactive 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen for the front passenger (covered with privacy film so the display cannot be viewed by the driver); a panoramic sunroof; 19-speaker audio system; retractable side steps; and a power-operated tailgate. Plus, the top-spec Limited variant comes with massaging seats for the driver and front passenger. Full list of specs and features can be found here 👇

2025 Ram 1500 Laramie Sport

• Twin-turbo in-line 3.0-litre six-cylinder Hurricane engine (Standard Output) – NEW
• 313kW and 635Nm – NEW
• Eight-speed automatic
• All-wheel-drive or two-wheel-drive
• Five driving modes (auto, sport, tow, snow, off-road) – NEW
• 98-litre fuel tank
• Redesigned LED headlights – NEW
• Redesigned tail-lights – NEW
• Redesigned front fascia – NEW
• Redesigned 20-inch alloy wheels (275/55/20 tyres) – NEW
• 19-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system
• Dual pane panoramic sunroof
• 14.4-inch infotainment screen – NEW
• 10.25-inch front passenger infotainment touchscreen – NEW
• Dual wireless phone charging – NEW
• Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Automatic lowering and retracting power side steps
• Power tailgate (up and down, also with one-touch function for losing) – NEW
• RamBox storage system
• Spray-in bedliner
• Rear-view camera
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Towing capacity 4500kg (70mm tow ball), 3500kg (50mm tow ball)
• Payload 863kg
• Four colour options: Bright White, Billet Silver, Delmonico Red, Diamond Black

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2025 Ram 1500 Limited

• Twin-turbo in-line 3.0-litre six-cylinder Hurricane engine (High Output) – NEW
• 403kW and 707Nm – NEW
• Eight-speed automatic
• All-wheel-drive or two-wheel-drive
• Air-suspension with three modes (normal, aero and off-road)
• Five driving modes (auto, sport, tow, snow, off-road) – NEW
• 125-litre fuel tank – NEW
• Traffic sign recognition – NEW
• LED headlights with animation on unlock – NEW
• LED tail-lights with animation on unlock – NEW
• Proximity lighting on unlock at night (with Ram logo projection) – NEW
• Redesigned front fascia – NEW
• Redesigned 22-inch alloy wheels (285/45/22 tyres) – NEW
• 19-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system
• Massaging seats (with five settings and three speeds) – NEW
• Dual pane panoramic sunroof
• 14.4-inch infotainment screen – NEW
• 10.25-inch front passenger infotainment touchscreen – NEW
• Dual wireless phone charging – NEW
• Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Switchable digital rear-view mirror
• Automatic lowering and retracting power side steps
• Power tailgate (up and down, also with one-touch function for closing) – NEW
• RamBox storage system
• Spray-in bedliner
• 360-degree view camera
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Towing capacity 4200kg (70mm tow ball), 3500kg (50mm tow ball)
• Payload 782.5kg
• Four colour options: Bright White, Billet Silver, Delmonico Red, Diamond Black

The all-electric JAC T9 EV dual-cab will make its Australian debut at the upcoming 2025 Melbourne Motor Show, to be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on April 5 and 6.

First revealed at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China in 2024, the zero-emissions ute utilises the same platform as its diesel sibling but replaces the 125kW/410Nm 2.0-litre single-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine with an 88kW LFP battery and dual electric motors.

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This EV drivetrain reportedly gives the T9 a driving range of 330km, according to the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure). It can also send the T9 from 0-100km/h in just 8.5 seconds. These figures are based on the specs of T9s sold in China.

The T9 EV will feature both AC and DV charging, with JAC stating it can recharge the battery from 15 to 80 per cent in 40 minutes. Plus, it will come equipped with an external socket to power tools or campsite electronics.

Tech, safety kit and interior fit-out is expected to be based on the top-spec Haven grade, which gets black/brown leather-accented upholstery; a four-way power-adjustable passenger seat; heated front seats; a 360-degree camera; and front parking sensors. Full T9 features listed here 👇

2024 JAC T9 features

2024 JAC T9 Haven features

“The JAC T9 EV dual-cab ute is further proof of JAC Motors’ standing as one of China’s leading innovators in sustainable motoring and EV technology,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director of JAC Motors Australia.

“With its powerful electric drivetrain, comfortable interior and hard-working credentials, the JAC T9 EV proves that environmental responsibility and work-life versatility can co-exist.”

The T9 EV is listed with a maximum payload capacity of 900kg, as well as the width to fit a full-size pallet between the wheel arches. The T9 received a five-star ANCAP safety score in August 2024.

An Australian company has transformed the iconic 79 Series LandCruiser into an all-electric tourer with up to 400kW on tap.

The brains of Australian Electric Vehicle Specialists (Australian EVS) – a Newcastle-based mob that specialises in electric conversions – this EV Cruiser made its public debut at the 2025 Everything Electric Show held recently in Sydney.

“This LandCruiser represents more than just another project; it’s a step forward in the future of sustainable off-road driving, combining rugged reliability with advanced EV technology,” Australian EVS said of the converted 79.

The 151kW V8 powertrain that powers the 2024 LC79 dual-cab ute was ditched in lieu of an advanced bolt-in e-kit 8 plug-and-play system. The conversion reportedly increases the Cruiser’s output by almost 250kW, to 400kW.

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Images sourced from Australian Electrical Vehicle Specialists Facebook page

The e-kit 8 utilises a Cascadia iM-375 e-motor sourced from the USA, as well as a 106kWh LifePO4 battery. Peak torque and power are listed at 580Nm and 400kW respectively. When using direct drive, Australian EVS says the e-kit 8 can produce up to a mind-numbing 1800Nm. The Cruiser is said to race from 0-100km/h in about six seconds, and its long-range batteries can provide up to 700km of range.

“The process begins with removing the old engine and gearbox to begin prepping the car for 3D scanning. From here, the team develops unique parts to mount our new motor to its direct-drive gearbox and to the factory Toyota 4WD system. These parts are then manufactured and ready to fit our new e-kit 8 powertrain,” Australian EVS says of the build.

This is said to leave plenty of room up front for batteries and other key components.

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The vehicle also features a Lovells two-inch lift, a GVM upgrade, multiple 240v outlets and a fast charger at the rear. It retains its 3500kg braked towing capacity, and can support up to 1000kg on the tray.

The fully electrified vehicle will be fully engineered for road use and ready to drive away by mid-2025, according to the company’s own Facebook page.