The Ford Ranger has ended 2024 just as it started the year: On top of the 4×4 sales charts.

In fact, the Ranger remained the best-selling 4×4 vehicle for every single month of 2024. In December, the Ranger registered 4231 sales, positioning it ahead of the Toyota HiLux and Prado.

On the year-to-date charts, the Ranger’s success transcends the 4×4 charts and positions it as the best-selling overall vehicle in Australia – when 4×2 and 4×4 sales are combined. A total of 62,593 Rangers were delivered to customers throughout 2024, placing it ahead of the Toyota RAV4 (58,718) and Toyota HiLux (53,499) on the final podium.

Despite this dominance, Ranger sales slipped in December 2024 (4493 sales) compared to the same month in 2023 (7767 sales). This significant decline of 42.2 per cent is reflective of the trends of the overall market, where LCV sales have started to slow.

A total of 270,351 LCVs found new homes in 2024, but 274,185 LCV sales were registered in Australia in 2023. Diving a bit deeper in the LCV segment reveals that the PU/CC 4×4 category– which accounts for a vast majority of sales within the segment – also dipped compared to 2023 (203,176 versus 208,716).

The SUV segment held the bulk of sales in 2024, finishing with 695,566 sales. That’s 57.0 per cent slice of overall sales, and an increase of 1.2 per cent compared to 2023 which saw 679,462 sales registered.

Still in its infancy, the all-new LandCruiser Prado continues to perform well on the charts, with the SUV notching up 2687 sales and ending December as the the fourth best-selling vehicle for the month – only below the RAV4, Ranger and HiLux. In fact, five of the ten best-selling vehicles in December are ones we drive here at 4X4 Australia: Ranger, HiLux, Prado, Everest and D-MAX.

However, FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber expects new-found challenges will disrupt consumer preferences in 2025.

“While overall consumer preferences remain clear with SUVs and Light Commercial vehicles continuing to dominate the market and especially the top ten sales, many vehicles in these segments are either difficult or expensive to decarbonise,” Weber said. “This will prove to be a significant challenge in meeting the extremely ambitious targets of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) which began on 1 January 2025.

“The industry is responding to NVES by increasing the range of zero and low emission vehicles on offer. However, a continuation of current customer buying preferences will inevitably lead to the accrual of substantial penalties under the Government’s new scheme, which will create price inflation within the new vehicle market.”

Diesel and petrol sales were down in 2024 compared to the previous year – diesel sales dropped from 379,512 in 2023 to 369,842 in 2024; while petrol sales dipped from 588,596 sales in 2023 to 528,978 in 2024.

On the flip side, the Hybrid and PHEV segments registered improved sales in 2024 compared to 2023. A total of 172,696 hybrid vehicles were sold in 2024, up from 98,105 in 2023. A total of 23,163 PHEVs were sold, up from 11,572 sold in 2023. The EV segment dropped by 14.5 per cent, with 74,612 sales confirmed in 2024 compared to 87,217 in 2023.

In the battle of the Upper Large SUVs, the Nissan Patrol outsold the LandCruiser 300 Series by just 15 units in December – 726 to 711 sales – but neither of these vehicles could sneak into the top 10 on the 4×4 sales charts for December.

The Chevrolet Silverado (HD included; 362) outsold both the Ford F-150 (344) and RAM 1500 (277) in December; and the GWM Ute remains the popular budget choice (687 sales in December), preferred by consumers over the LDV T60 (454) and SsangYong Musso (113).

VFACTs has released its sales data for the year, with Toyota emerging as the best-selling brand in Australia in 2024.

Led by the RAV4 and venerable HiLux, Toyota was at the forefront of overall sales in 2024, accounting for 241,296 sales or 19.8 per cent of the market. This is an increase of 12.1 per cent compared to 2023, a year which saw the Japanese marque shift 215,240 units.

Toyota’s dominance was followed by Ford with 100,170 sales (8.2 per cent); Mazda with 95,987 sales (7.9 per cent); Kia with 81,787 sales (6.7 per cent); and Mitsubishi with 74,587 sales (6.1 per cent).

In fact, a new record was set in 2024 for the total number of new vehicles sold throughout the calendar year, with 1,220,607 sales representing a growth of 0.3 compared to 2023. However, FCAI Chief Executive, Tony Weber, has indicated there was a concerning sales trend in the second half of the year.

“The second half of the year showed a concerning trend with sales in the Private segment falling to very low levels as interest rates and general cost of living pressures impacted Australian families.”

“Customers are also increasingly making choices regarding environmental outcomes and the associated total cost of ownership of moving to low emissions technologies,” Weber continued. “So, while the sales of battery electric vehicles are lower than expected, this is offset to a degree by an increasing number of buyers turning to hybrid and plug-in hybrid models which make up 14.1 per cent and 1.9 per cent of the total market respectively.

“While overall consumer preferences remain clear with SUVs and Light Commercial vehicles continuing to dominate the market and especially the top ten sales, many vehicles in these segments are either difficult or expensive to decarbonise. This will prove to be a significant challenge in meeting the extremely ambitious targets of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) which began on 1 January 2025.”

On closer inspection, the Hybrid and PHEV segments were alone in registering improved sales in 2024 compared to 2023. A total of 172,696 hybrid vehicles were sold in 2024, up from 98,105 in 2023; and 23,163 PHEVs were sold, up from 11,572 sold in 2023. The EV segment dropped by 14.5 per cent, with only 74,612 total sales in 2024 compared to 87,217 in 2023.

Diesel and petrol sales were also down in 2024 compared to the previous year. Diesel sales dropped from 379,512 in 2023 to 369,842 in 2024; while petrol sales dipped from 588,596 sales in 2023 to 528,978 in 2024.

The SUV segment hoarded the lion’s share of sales in 2024, finishing the year with 695,566 sales in the bank. That’s a massive 57.0 per cent slice of overall sales, and an increase of 1.2 per cent compared to the previous year which saw 679,462 sales registered.

The Light Commercial segment was the next most sought-after, with a total of 270,351 LCVs finding new homes in 2024 (or 22.1 per cent of overall sales). Interestingly though, LCV sales were down in 2024 compared to 2023, where 274,185 sales registered in Australia. Diving a bit deeper in the LCV segment reveals that the PU/CC 4×4 segment accounted for a vast majority of sales (203,176). However, this segment also dipped compared to 2023 (208,716).

Passenger car sales continue to decline, with the segment dropping by 3.8 per cent in 2024 (14,005) compared to 2023 (16,245). This only gives the passenger segment a 14.6 per cent share of the new-car market.

When combining 4×4 and 4×2 sales, the three best-selling cars in Australia in 2024 were the Ford Ranger (62,593), Toyota RAV4 (58,718) and Toyota HiLux (53,499).

The minor weep from my 11-year-old factory-original radiator wasn’t a massive issue while driving around the ’burbs. The small stain on the ground was hardly noticeable, but it presented a possible major problem down the track.

Given the remote use this HiLux will be used for, along with the daily bump and grind, I opted for preventative maintenance over an emergency trackside dramathat could be caused by an overheated and damaged engine.

Given Terrain Tamer’s penchant for manufacturing products that are better than OE parts, I’ve opted to try the company’s heavy-duty aluminium radiator. Yeah, I know the horror stories of aluminium products cracking under stress and vibrations, but given the correct manufacturing procedures, mounting process and quality hardware, I have no doubt the Terrain Tamer unit will be fit for purpose, both around the ’burbs as well as on remote, rough tracks in hot weather.

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Ancillaries

Making the installation process a breeze are the identical mounting points to the OE radiator.

The swap involved simply unbolting parts from the OE unit, reattaching them to the Terrain Tamer radiator and hey presto – no custom fabrication, no sourcing extra components and, most importantly, no stress.

Once the radiator was fitted and pressure tested, it was time to drive – no other work was necessary.

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I also opted for the Terrain Tamer hose kit and low-coolant alarm. The kit provides every hose needed for the radiator replacement, while the alarm sounds an audible buzz to alert for loss of coolant.

Notably, it’s not a temperature-related alarm but a low coolant alarm. Each time the engine is started, a short buzz, plus the lighting of the LED light, tells me the system is working and correctly filled.

I haven’t had the alarm alert me for any loss of coolant, so that’s one parameter that can’t be tested until something awry happens – which hopefully doesn’t!

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What’s aluminium and what’s not?

While the top and bottom tanks, the fins and the tubes are all aluminium, the side-mounting brackets are steel, which are mounted in such a way as to avoid vibration and shock.

The fins’ pitch returns an improved cooling effect, as does the increased tube count.

The two tanks are fully pressed to prevent the need for any welding, which is historically the weak point of most aluminium products that spend their life in arduous conditions.

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How cool?

We cannot prove how much cooler the HiLux engine runs compared to the factory original radiator, not that it should under normal driving conditions.

It’s when the going gets tough, driving with heavy loads in hot climates, towing and in off-road conditions, where I’d expect the HiLux to keep its cool better and longer than the replaced unit.

The added strength and durability should allow the HiLux’s new radiator to dissipate the engine-produced heat more efficiently in all driving conditions.

To date, other than when I pop the bonnet and see the shiny new aluminium radiator, there is no way of telling if there is anything different with the HiLux. That’s a good thing; I’ll be sure to note the future workings of the new Terrain Tamer aluminium radiator as it is tested, so stay tuned.

After an enjoyable stint driving through the amazing Kimberley region I was hesitant to leave Western Australia, but with daily temperatures rising I knew I had to leave soon.

Crossing the border into the Northern Territory and watching the edge of the Kimberleys fade away in my mirrors, I was really hoping something would draw me back.

I was about 10 minutes into the Northern Territory when I saw a sign south to Halls Creek and the Buntine Highway. Now, always looking for adventure, I had a quick look at the map to see what was south and it all looked good to explore. The sign said that Halls Creek was nearly 450km away and that this was a remote and isolated area where travellers proceed at their own risk.

In the big scheme of things, I found Duncan Road just like many other outback roads, in pretty good condition, easy to drive after dropping some air out of the tyres, and with stunning scenery to pass the miles away.

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Heading south

Duncan Road was originally cut through in 1949 to service remote cattle stations and for the transportation of cattle out of the area, and it is notable in that it starts in the NT, crosses into WA, then back out into the NT and finally back into WA where it meets the Buntine Highway.

Along its length I was expecting a nice drive through savannah-type country but honestly, it blew my mind. I was travelling on the eastern edge of the Kimberley region the whole way down, intersecting stunning mountains with million-year-old rock formations covered with spinifex.

Heading down Duncan Road there are several rivers and creeks that are safe for swimming, and some really nice rock pools and gorges where you can set up camp for the night. Just make sure you respect the country where you stop to ensure it won’t be closed to future travellers; all along Duncan Road is private property.

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Halfway down a huge rock cairn caught my eye and I discovered that it was a memorial for the Ord River Regeneration Reserve.

The project was to regenerate and stabilise some severely eroded sections of the Ord River catchment which covered nearly 10,000km². They fenced the area, removed feral donkeys and cattle and reseeded the damaged and barren areas.

I was a bit bemused seeing potential flood warning signs along the way, but after seeing just how wide some rivers and creeks get in flood season I was amazed by just how much water must flow through this area. Duncan Road ends at Nicholson Station at the Buntine Highway, where I would continue west towards Halls Creek.

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Purnululu

On the southern side of Purnululu NP, the scenery is spectacular with the sun bathing mountains covered in golden spinifex grass and huge white gums.

Strangely, I didn’t see any Kimberley boab trees along this section of my journey. While it’s only 170km to Halls Creek, I camped 50km shy of there at Sawpit Gorge. There is a narrow and slow track into the gorge, where there are two camping areas near the Black Elvire River.

There’s a towering rock wall on one side and sandy shaded banks on the other where raging flood waters have cut a path over time. It’s a secluded and beautiful location to stop. Free overnight camping is allowed and there’s an eco toilet and rubbish bins here.

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The lower camp is 4×4 access only, and is set beside pools of water amongst gums and the massive rock wall. At different times of the day the sun lights up the wall with a stunning red glow.

There are several walking trails along the creek to spot wildlife or to find a private swimming hole and I have no doubt you will appreciate the tranquility. Back out on Duncan Road, a popular local swimming hole is Palm Springs. Also on the Black Elvire River, this palm-fringed spring-fed pool also has free camping.

With permanent water it’s called ‘an oasis in the desert’ where palms and soft grasses line the waterhole. It’s thought that Afghan teamsters planted the original date palms found here. One Afghan man, Sam Hazlett, and his Aboriginal wife Duddru, lived at Palm Springs for many years, where they used the springs for drinking water and to grow vegetables, which he sold locally.

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Gold rush

Not far down the road is Old Halls Creek, where the first gold was discovered in Western Australia and where the state’s gold rushes began. It was in 1885 that Charles Hall found a 28oz nugget here, hence this area becoming known as the Golden West.

Old Halls Creek was the site of the original gold mining community where prospectors followed the gold up the creeks and gullies from Brockman to Old Halls Creek. Today, some of the original mud buildings are protected under a huge shed from the belting sun and weather.

The 1885 gold rush was short and sharp here, but it brought people from the coast, and as far away as California. At its peak the town had stores for commercial and private trade. Out the back of the old town there’s a memorial for the RFDS that was erected for the service’s 90th anniversary, as this is the location where the idea for a remote doctor service originated.

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A chain of events in July 1917, with the accident of stockman Jim Darcy, eventually led to the founding of the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Australia.

Further towards Halls Creek a natural phenomenon has occurred where softer rock has weathered away leaving a striking pure white quartz wall rising up to six metres out of the ground.

Called China Wall, the white quartz stands out along its length over several mountains and into the gullies. It’s said that this wall of quartz can be traced all the way north to Kununurra.

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With nearly 500km under my belt I needed to head into Halls Creek to fuel up, but not before finding a couple of old stone huts on nearby Sophie Downs Station.

A horse track back in the late 1800s up to Wyndham, where the main port was, followed creeks for watering points, and the huts were built as rest stops or hotels. These are of significant historical value to the area.

If you have the time, like getting off the main roads, driving through stunning scenery, and setting up at amazing campsites, then this route is a no brainer. With amazing history and dramatic landscapes following the Ord River, I personally consider the Duncan Road to be one of the most scenic in the whole of the Kimberley.

Traction control advancements in new 4x4s are getting close or equal to the ability of a cross-axle diff lock.

Plus, for many, that factory traction control system is more than adequate for most situations that most people find themselves in when driving off-road. But with older 4x4s, like my 2013 HiLux, the electronic devices are left wanting, to the point of being almost worthless. This makes the aftermarket diff lock the best tool for any off-road job where one hundred percent drive is needed.

I went with the Terrain Tamer ELocker option on the rear diff only. Yes, there are benefits to both front and rear diff locks, but in my experience with many of my previous twin-locked 4x4s, the rear always gets used the most, so that’s how I’ve gone with my new (secondhand) HiLux.

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Why Terrain Tamer?

The advantage of purchasing the locker via Terrain Tamer is all the extras provided with the Harrop Eaton Elocker in the kit including a complete bearing and gasket kit, along with a comprehensive fitting guide.

Given the specialised equipment and thorough understanding of how to set the whole system up, the job is not really in the realm of a backyarder or the average DIYer – it’s best to leave this one to the experts.

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How does it work?

Without going into the intricacies of how a differential works, the Terrain Tamer ELocker is a manually selectable diff lock powered by the vehicle’s 12-volt system and is magnetically actuated – an electromagnetic system.

That manual activation is via an in-cabin-mounted switch that can be flicked both on and off at the driver’s discretion. Once ‘on’ or ‘locked’, the diff then sends equal drive to both left and right axles of the differential, allowing constant drive regardless of terrain or if wheels are in the air or on the ground.

That constant drive is what we rely on to get through all off-road situations easier: sand, mud, snow, rocks, ruts, uphill or down – you name it, and a diff lock will help you off-road.

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While the Terrain Tamer Elocker can be engaged while driving/moving, it’s suggested that it can only be done under 5km/h when both left and right wheels are turning at the same speed.

Given that I’m mechanically sympathetic, I only engage mine at a standstill, which requires understanding the terrain you’re about to drive and knowing if you might need it or not.

Once engaged, I know I have total drive to both rear wheels (given I fitted the locker to the rear diff), allowing me to take my Hilux further down most tracks and be safer on the driveline given the lower speeds at which I can tackle obstacles.

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Hardcore or touring?

Don’t be fooled into believing a diff lock is only for the ‘crash and bash’ mob, or competition use.

No siree. Any 4×4 will benefit from a cross axle diff lock, such as touring, playing or even the rarely used off-road 4×4. That diff lock really is a get-out-of-jail-free card that can be used in many situations.

No, you don’t have to wait until you’re stuck to use your diff lock; engaging it allows for a slower approach to most obstacles, resulting in less damage to both vehicle and terrain – a win-win product! Turn it on before you need it, drive the obstacle, then turn it off – easy!

Am I happy with the newly fitted Terrain Tamer Elocker? You betcha; I wouldn’t be without it in this HiLux and tend to use it more often than some to help ensure easier off-road driving.

Queensland’s Billy McKinnon probably wasn’t the first person to slot an 80 Series chassis underneath a classic 40 Series LandCruiser but we reckon he was the first in Australia to make a business out of doing it.

It was eight years ago when we featured Billy’s turbocharged V8-powered FJ45 Troopy in 4X4 Australia, a vehicle that was built on an 80 Series platform. In the years since he has established McKinnon’s Cruisers, specialising in such creations for customers all around Australia. And there have been a few more of them featured in our pages since, as no two of the amazing builds are the same.

The latest Cruiser to come out of the workshop caught our eye as once again, it was something a bit different.

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While most of the Cruiser conversions from McKinnon’s are long wheelbase 45 Series utes or Troopies that better accept the 80 Series chassis, this short wheelbase FJ40 retains its stubby stance because the 80 chassis was cut down to 2360mm to sit under the 40 body.

Oh yeah, there have been one or two mid-wheelbase 40/80 conversions to come out of the shop as well, but this is the first SWB one… and it wasn’t straightforward.

“Being the first FJ40 SWB on an 80 chassis, there was a lot that went into the design and engineering processes,” Billy says.

Fitting an 80 Series chassis under a 40 makes it much nicer to drive thanks to the comparatively modern coil spring suspension replacing the original leaf spring setup. But the donor 80 Series for this build had a 2850mm wheelbase while a standard FJ40 has a 2285mm wheelbase.

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In a minor compromise, this 40 is now a bit longer in the wheelbase at 2360mm, but that meant almost half a metre still had to be cut out of the 80 Series chassis.

The chassis has been beefed up with Superior Engineering front arms and links, Dobinson’s Monotube Remote Reservoir (MRR) suspension and hydro bump stops designed for taking those hard hits when off road, plus LCS4x4 trailing arms. The FZ80 diffs were likewise toughened with Longfield chrome-moly axles, CVs and ARB Air Lockers, providing the drive to the 35-inch Toyos.

The big slotted brake rotors are from Bendix and they sit behind a set of Method beadlock wheels.

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The topside of the chassis benefits from a heap of custom-made protection equipment all courtesy of the House of McKinnon.

The front bar is a McKinnon’s Cruisers stubby bar and it houses that impressive looking Red Winches Cobra XL winch. The twin swing-out rear bar is also made in-house with a spare tyre on one side and a fridge mount on the other.

Why would you want to mount your fridge up there outside the 4×4? Billy says this Cruiser was made to enjoy with mates on board, so he built it as a four-seater and the rear seats take up the space in back. The roll cage was also made to accommodate rear-seat passengers and includes a bikini top to keep the sun off occupants’ heads when cruising up the beach.

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More custom bar work comes in the form of the rock sliders to protect the sills.

The other donor to this project was an old FJ40… or what was left of it. It was just a bare cab that was on the scrapheap in pretty bad shape. A lot of work went into fabricating the replacement panels and patching up what was left of the original Toyota metal and now it looks better than new back in ’77.

An FJ40 is obviously a lot smaller than an FZ80, in both width as well as length. While it was one thing to cut down the 80 Series chassis to make it fit under the 40, getting the wheel track within the guards required more custom work. Wide guards were made up using more tube steel and some sheet metal and these have become standard equipment for these 40/80 hybrid Cruisers.

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We’ve seen a variety of different engines powering these hybrids from McKinnon’s over the years, from the turbo LS in Billy’s Troopy, to a Ford Coyote V8, LSA V8, and even a Cummins diesel. This shorty sticks to the Toyota brand but not with the turbo-diesel inline six you might expect.

The V8 rumble comes from a 1UZ engine as found in V8 100 Series and Lexus LX470s back in the day. They were some of the most refined and best performing engines around in the 1990s and this one gets some extra mumbo with the intake charge forced into the 4-valves per cylinder DOHC heads courtesy of an Eaton M90 supercharger.

The 1UZ engine is known to be over-engineered and very tough, so this retains its standard internals.

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Engine management comes via a Link G4 ECU controlled via a Haltech IC-7 digital dash.

Behind the Lexus engine is a Ford C4 three-speed automatic which Billy says was also on the scrapheap prior to finding a new life here. It uses a Marks 4WD adaptor to mate to a 60 Series split-case transfer case and custom drive shafts.

With its mixture of parts from many automotive brands, and a hell of a lot of custom fabrication, this FJ40/80 has come together particularly well, maintaining the look of the classic Toyota ‘shorty’ with improved ride, handling and performance courtesy of a master craftsman.

Now it’s time for Billy to fill up that fridge, load up his mates and hit the Queensland beaches.

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Happy new year from the crew at 4X4 Au!

It looks like 2025 promises to be another big year for new 4×4 vehicles, and in turn the accessories to equip them, and we’re getting stuck into it already. In fact, two of the key pillars of 4X4 Australia are 4×4 vehicles and the aftermarket accessories industry. Another is vehicle based travel, but I want to talk about the first two now.

Both the new 4×4 vehicle market and the 4×4 aftermarket industry have snowballed in growth over the past 30 years. One feeds the other as the growing number of new 4x4s being bought by consumers feeds the appetite to accessorise them, to make them better suited for touring and off-road adventures. Sure, not everyone wants to accessorise their new vehicle but a huge percentage of owners do, and if you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re one of them.

The right accessories make your 4×4 more capable so you can take it on tougher tracks, make it more resilient to the harshness of rough roads and tracks, and easier to live with during weeks or months on the road. Thankfully, the Australian 4×4 aftermarket industry is considered globally to be the best in the world, designing and producing the foremost gear and accessories on the planet. While we have some well-established brands that have been around for many decades and are known for their quality and innovation, we’re now also seeing a lot of new companies popping up to feed the growing demand for gear.

What I’ve found really interesting in the last few years is that vehicle manufacturers are now collaborating with the aftermarket producers to kit out their customers’ 4x4s. Previously, dealers were seeing owners take delivery of their shiny new 4x4s and then driving them around the corner to the local accessories store where they’d spend tens-of-thousands more equipping them. This left the car dealers wondering how they could get a slice of the action.

Ford has made the biggest move partnering with ARB to have OEM-backed and fitted accessories for its 4x4s both here in Australia and in the USA. Now we see ARB kit filtering through to the Volkswagen Amarok, which is really a no-brainer considering the shared parts between the Ford and VW… but VW Australia also did its own testing and certification to make sure the products meet that company’s standards.

Check out the Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Edition we drove recently that is equipped with gear from ARB, Rhino-Rack and other quality aftermarket accessories. The other interesting partnership we’ve seen at the end of 2024 is Ironman 4×4 partnering with newcomer BYD to create a range of off-road accessories for the brand’s Shark 6 ute.

The Shark 6 is certainly making waves in the 4×4 ute pond and the first deliveries will be going out to owners early in the new year. This BYD/Ironman 4×4 collaboration will be a very interesting one to watch. Stick with us for the ride!

We list some of the best 4×4 products that came out in December 2024 👇

• Bendix Ultimate 4WD brake upgrade kit
• Bendix Brake Booster for 2.8 LC70
• MSA 4×4 Explorer Storage Bags
• Loaded Wheels: Gibb 1675
• General Tire Grabber ATX and AT3
• GME XRS-660 UHF radio
• Idemitsu motor oil
• XTS 4×4 1600 Starter Bundle
• Teralume XGO trays and canopies
• Invicta Hybrid Starter Battery
• Offroad Animal bars for INEOS Grenadier
• Narva Ultima MK3 lights

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Bendix Ultimate 4WD brake upgrade kit

The Bendix Ultimate 4WD brake upgrade kit is a comprehensive package that includes advanced brake pads and rotors, braided brake lines and other essential accessories, all supplied in a durable touring case.

The high-performance ceramic brake pads are specifically formulated to enhance stopping power under extreme conditions. The included Bendix Ultimate Rotors utilise high carbon metallurgy for superior braking performance and feature diamond tip slots. The bi-directional pillar design is claimed to efficiently expel gases, water, dust and grit.

During testing, the kit is said to have demonstrated reduced braking distance by up to 5m at 100 km/h compared to OEM brakes. Other benefits include a firm brake pedal that resists over-expansion under pressure; minimised brake dust; reduced noise; thermal stability; and resistance to brake fade.

The kit includes easy-to-install braided brake hoses designed to withstand pressure without expanding. In addition, the touring case also contains Bendix heavy-duty brake fluid, brake cleaner, parts degreaser, Ceramasil lubricant, and brake rotor wipes.

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Bendix Brake Booster for 2.8 LC70

• RRP: $849

The upgrade is designed to increase braking performance by up to 30 per cent, making it an attractive option for owners who use their LandCruisers to carry heavy loads or for towing, either in work or recreational usage.

ADR-approved and a direct bolt-in replacement for the original equipment (OE) booster, the Ultimate 4WD Brake Booster features a dual diaphragm design that dramatically reduces the pedal effort required to bring the big Cruiser to a standstill.

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MSA 4×4 Explorer Storage Bags

• RRP: $100 (small); $110 (medium); $120 (large)

Available in three sizes and made from a spill and water-resistant high-quality satin-black Hypalon exterior with a grey PVC interior, the bags are reinforced with high-density 4mm EVA foam sides and lid. A sturdy carry handle and grab handles at each end provide comfortable means to handle the bags. The four clear pockets on the lid, combined with the supplied blank labels, allow for a highly visible labelling solution for the contents.

Each bag comes with at least two bag dividers, creating multiple segmenting options. Whether buying as a one-off or in combinations of the three available sizes, the MSA 4X4 Explorer Storage Bags all fit snugly together within a MSA 4X4 Storage Drawer System or anywhere else in your vehicle.

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Loaded Wheels: Gibb 1675

These new wheels by Loaded Wheels are load-rated up to 1675kg and are designed for vehicles with GVM upgrades, and those that tow and go off-road. They are named Gibb 1675 after the legendary 660km road of the same name that was constructed in the 1960s.

With increased strength and shock resistance, the wheels have a number of premium features including staggered offsets for LandCruiser 79 Series track adjustment; self-cleaning vents in the wheel lip to clear water and mud; full-length caps with removable hub access; and flow form technology to increases the tensile strength.

Four colours are available: Satin Black, Dark Tint, Silver Machined and Bronze, and all rims are 17×9-inch. The wheels come with a lifetime structural warranty and have been subjected to rigorous international testing standards for cornering fatigue, impact and radial loads.

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General Tire Grabber ATX and AT3

General Tire has introduced two new all-terrain 4×4 tyres to its Australian line-up: the Grabber ATX and Grabber AT3.

Both tyres, designed to balance on- and off-road performance, feature Comfort Balance Technology, which is said to provide a comfortable and quiet ride on bitumen courtesy of a tread cushioning system with an acoustic tread pattern. Plus, DuraGen Technology is said to provide impressive cut and chip resistance and grip when driving off-road. The tyres also feature a sturdy compound with reinforced blocks, high-strength steel belts, an open tread shoulder, large sidewall lugs, stacked deflection ribs and rim protection ribs.

The ATX is available in 13 sizes ranging from LT235/85R16 to LT275/65R20. The AT3 is available in nine sizes ranging from LT225/75R16 to LT265/65R18.

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GME XRS-660 UHF radio

• RRP: $549

The unit has built-in GPS, wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, a colour TFT LCD screen, IP67 ingress protection, and a MIL-STD810G rating. It’s covered by a five-year warranty.

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Idemitsu motor oil

• RRP: From $19.99

All products are available in either 1L or 5L containers. The IFG 7 Series is the flagship offering features such as Septet Guard Technology and nano-cleansing which are claimed to maximise performance, protection, cleanliness and oil life. The range is available now via the Idemitsu website.

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XTS 4X4 1600 Starter Bundle canopy

• RRP: $11,490

The 1600L canopy is made from corrosion-resistant 2.5mm aluminium plate and features dual wing doors with piano hinges and gas struts, an internal reinforced floor, roof and wall bracing, and whale tail locks.

Optional extras include vinyl wrap, jack-off legs, spare wheel holder, rear ladder, jerry can holder, roof rack, slide-out drawer shelf, slide-out pantry, power system, Bushman 85L fridge and central locking. The 1600 Starter Bundle canopy is available to pre-order.

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Teralume XGO trays and canopies

Teralume is a one-stop shop for all of your 4×4 touring needs, with the Queensland crew providing everything from its range of XGO trays and canopies to lithium power solutions and lighting systems.

They offer complete tray and canopy installation, a full suite of electrical services and customisable LED lighting solutions. Plus, they’ll also install roof rack systems, suspension upgrades and bolt on general 4×4 products such as winches, bull bars, snorkels, rooftop tents and awnings.

Ready-to-run features and options include a premium full-length tray, up to three canopy sizes, XGO lithium battery storage, an XGO power management hub, an internal channel frame, Victron range of inverter chargers, unique tapered drawers, a headboard water tank, full-length trundle drawer, integrated tie-down points, expedition wheel and jerry can holders, integrated fuel filler, no false floor, and camera and sensor relocation.

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Invicta Hybrid Starter Lithium Battery

The Invicta Hybrid Starter Battery is a dual-purpose under-bonnet lithium starting and deep-cycle solution that is claimed to be able to withstand high-heat environments.

Utilising premium A123 pouch cells, it can output more than 1400CCA depending on the product. As an added feature, a backup Jump Start function is included so users can be confident that they will be able to run their 12v accessories without sacrificing starting ability.

These particular pouch cells have been specifically selected due to their inherent ability to be discharged and charged at a high rate. The SNLMAX battery is so powerful it can even power an electric winch.

The batteries feature a three-year full replacement warranty, Bluetooth monitoring, under-bonnet lithium battery replacement, lightweight LiFePO4 chemistry, BMS for high continuous charge/discharge, jumpstart feature, high CCA capabilities, charge directly from the alternator, and come in standard automotive case sizes.

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Offroad Animal bars for INEOS Grenadier

• RRP: $2550 (Predator); $3250 (Toro)

Offroad Animal’s bars for Ineos fit both models and are available in two styles – the full hooped Toro Bar or the hoopless Predator Bar.

Made using 3mm and 5mm steel, the bars improve approach angles, are designed to accommodate most winches, have integrated high-lift jack points, come with a solid bash guard, are ADR and airbag compatible, and can be colour coded to match or contrast your vehicle.

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Narva Ultima MK3 lights

• RRP: $1450 (Hybrid kit pair including harness)

The new spot beam pattern delivers more than 1400m of light (and more than 1200m for hybrid beam) per pair of lamps. The spot beam also features a significantly wider beam width than most other driving lights but when compared to the hybrid beam, a deliberate width reduction of 12m means less light on road signs to minimise unwanted flare.

There seem to be so many different lights and headlamps on the market these days it’s hard to figure out what will best suit your needs.

Apart from a headlamp or two, I’ve found the following LED lights to be a handy and flexible addition to my travelling gear.

CAOS LED lanterns come either singularly, in a twin pack, or a four-pack parcel. We bought the four-pack unit which comes packaged in a well-made zip-closed padded case that includes the four lights, four rechargeable lithium batteries, and four battery cases that take three AAA batteries (12 batteries supplied) as a back-up power source. There’s also a couple of USB charging cables.

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Each light has a magnetic mount for easy attachment to bonnets and the like, while also having a bungee cord for attaching to non-magnetic items such as tree branches, plastic handles or tent poles up to about 25mm in diameter.

Each light weighs 85g and has an IP66 waterproof rating, which means they can withstand a bit of a blast from a high pressure water jet – don’t take them underwater though.

Each of the lamps has five lighting modes which includes white high, medium and low power, amber high and amber strobe flashing. Battery life from the 1200mAh lithium batteries reportedly varies from five hours on white high to 95 hours on white low. We’ve used the lights for quite some time before they needed recharging.

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These lights throw a good beam of even light in the white modes and when used in the amber mode are great around the food preparation area or on the dinner table, as insects aren’t attracted by the amber light.

On the CAOS website we’ve noticed they only have the two-pack for sale at present although we bought the four-pack within the last 12 months for around a 100 bucks.

Looking on the web you’ll probably find similar lights for a similar price, but we’ll stick with the CAOS brand for its carrying case and warranty… and we know they work and have done for 12 months or so without a hassle. They are covered by a two-year warranty which is extended to three years for CAOS Crew members

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1. Moreton Island

Words: Justin Walker

Photos: Scott Mason

Just 40km from the city of Brisbane, Moreton Island offers the perfect off-road adventure. With 18,000ha of sand, bush and beaches, it’s ideal for a weekend escape whether you’re into swimming, diving, fishing, camping or bushwalking.

What makes Moreton Island stand out is that all its roads are sandy tracks – there are no sealed roads here, so it’s a true 4×4 experience. The island’s soft sand makes it a prime destination for off-road enthusiasts, and it’s just a short ferry ride from Brisbane. The Micat ferry runs daily from the Port of Brisbane to the island’s western coastline (The Wrecks) where your adventure begins.

The island’s beach-driving conditions depend on tides and weather. Big storms can erode large sections of beach, so it’s important to check the latest track and beach conditions on the Queensland Department of National Parks website before heading out.

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We recommend planning your beach driving around two hours either side of low tide to avoid getting stuck – many vehicles have been claimed by Moreton’s beaches.

Moreton Island offers five campgrounds equipped with toilets, showers and bore water (always treat or boil the water before use). In addition, there are five beach-based camping zones, but note that campfires are only allowed in designated fire pits at campgrounds, and you’ll need to bring your own wood.

Fishing is popular on the island, but parts of the coastline fall within the Moreton Bay Marine National Park, where fishing is prohibited, so be mindful of restricted areas when planning your catch.

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If you’re camping overnight, head north after arriving at The Wrecks. From there, you can take high-tide tracks at Cowan Cowan and Cravens Creek, then return to the beach for the remainder of the drive north to Bulwer.

For a picturesque camping spot, head to Comboyuro Point campground, a quiet spot near the island’s northern tip.

For a longer adventure, the Bulwer North Point Road takes you across the island’s northern section, passing beaches and access tracks, as well as the Five Hills Lookout. This viewpoint, atop a huge sand dune, offers stunning views of Heath Island. Continue on to Yellow Patch and North Point campgrounds, near the historic Cape Moreton Lighthouse, for an overnight stay.

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If you’re towing a camper trailer, the Bulwer Blue Lagoon Road is a good route to reach Blue Lagoon campground on the east coast. During whale-watching season (June to October), you might even spot a few whales from here.

Blue Lagoon is another must-visit, known for its crystal-clear waters and popular campground. South of Spitfire Creek, more camping opportunities await, but we recommend stopping at Blue Lagoon for a swim and rest.

For history buffs, a stop at the Rous Battery site is worth it. This World War II defence installation is now in ruins, but it offers an interesting glimpse into the island’s military past and is a great spot for the kids to explore.

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A little farther south, the Little Sandhills and Big Sandhills provide fantastic views and the chance to try sand tobogganing, a favourite Moreton Island activity. These massive dunes rise over 80m, offering plenty of thrills.

At the island’s southern tip, Mirapool Lagoon is a prime birdwatching spot, and the nearby Kooringal area is the ferry departure point for North Stradbroke Island.

From here, you can either head back along the eastern beach track to The Wrecks and the ferry back to Brisbane, or take the ferry from Kooringal for a new adventure. Moreton Island is a true 4×4 paradise, offering something for every outdoor enthusiast, all just a short trip from the city.

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2. North Stradbroke Island

Words: Justin Walker

Photos: Matthew and Lucy Eaton

Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as it’s affectionately known, offers a perfect weekend escape from Brisbane, similar to Moreton Island.

Accessible by ferry from Cleveland or from Moreton Island’s northern tip, Straddie boasts a wide range of activities including swimming, surfing, fishing, beach driving, kayaking, camping and golf – yep, there’s a golf course on the island.

Like Moreton, a beach access permit is required for driving on Straddie’s beaches. It’s important to note that four-wheel drive access to the beaches is restricted an hour either side of high tide, and fines are issued for violations. Naree Budjong Djara National Park covers parts of the island, with restrictions on vehicular access to certain areas, such as Blue Lake, which requires a 5km return walk to reach.

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The island’s roads are a mix of sealed bitumen and unsealed 4×4-only tracks. The ferry lands at Dunwich, the island’s main settlement, where you can pick up supplies and grab an island map before heading off on your adventure.

From Dunwich, the preferred route is to head north along Dickson Way. A quick detour east along Tazi Road takes you to Brown Lake, a great spot for a swim or picnic. However, this track is best suited for high-clearance 4x4s, especially after rain, as it can become quite muddy.

If you’re after a more relaxed family-friendly route, continue north on East Coast Road, passing through the northern section of Naree Budjong Djara National Park. You can then head to the Amity Point caravan park or, for a quieter experience, camp along Flinders Beach.

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The beach drive here is fantastic, but be cautious as this area is popular with pedestrians and anglers, so it’s important to drive slowly and be aware of others.

From Flinders Beach, you can head further north towards Adder Rock, a small settlement before reaching Point Lookout, where fuel and supplies are available. Continuing south, you’ll drive the iconic 24km stretch along Main Beach, which runs from Point Lookout to Jumpinpin Channel (The Pin), the channel separating North and South Straddie. Along the way, there are several campsites where you can settle for the night.

Alternatively, you can retrace your steps north and turn onto Tazi Road, passing the Blue Lake walk carpark before returning to Dunwich and taking in Brown Lake if you missed it earlier.

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For a more challenging 4×4 experience, head north from Dunwich along East Coast Road/Dickson Way and turn right just past Beehive Road onto Tripod Track.

This is a thrilling drive through Straddie’s lush interior, and you can stop at Tripod Lookout for panoramic views. The track then narrows, leading you onto Tazi Road before turning onto Fishermans Road.

Continue north on Fishermans Road until you reach the turnoff to Keyhole Lakes Track. This side trip is recommended for experienced 4×4 drivers, as it involves several water crossings, so make sure your vehicle is equipped with a snorkel, and check water depths before attempting.

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This track takes you to remote lakes perfect for kayaking, fishing and picnicking. Due to the tough access, these lakes provide a sense of solitude that’s hard to find on the more popular parts of the island.

Straddie offers a fantastic mix of easy-going coastal drives and more challenging off-road tracks, making it an ideal destination for both families and experienced 4×4 adventurers. With its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and remote spots for paddling and fishing, it’s the perfect weekend getaway just a short trip from Brisbane.

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3. K’gari (Fraser Island)

Words and photos: Dan Grec

For decades many have referred to Fraser Island as paradise, which coincidentally is the meaning of the island’s original Aboriginal name K’gari, which it has now re-adopted.

K’gari is the world’s largest sand island, and is made of 113 cubic kilometres of the stuff. Much more than just sand, however, K’gari also boasts rainforests, wildlife, 1000 year old trees and more than 865 species of plants.

This incredible island paradise was UNESCO World Heritage Listed in 1992, and virtually the entire island can be explored with a well-equipped four-wheel drive vehicle. K’gari sits barely a kilometre off the mainland, and multiple barges and ferries regularly make the crossing, transporting an armada of 4x4s and their grinning drivers.

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Many of the decked-out vehicles could easily be on the cover of a magazine, and they’re all packed to the brim, ready for adventure.

From top to bottom, K’gari is dotted with spectacular places to visit, each of which are a worthy destination in their own right. The aptly named 75 Mile Beach runs along most of the east coast of the island, and is designated a main road complete with speed limits and police radar. The sand road is so consistently good it is also used as a runway for light planes, which makes for some interesting decision making while navigating its length.

Halfway along the east coast of the island is the famous wreck of the luxury passenger ship, the SS Maheno. In 1935 the ship was caught in a strong cyclone about 80km off the coast of Queensland while being towed to a scrapyard. The ship became beached on the east coast of the island where it has remained ever since, slowly rusting away in the corrosive saltwater.

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Just north of the Maheno wreck on the east coast, Eli Creek flows into the ocean and provides not only a refreshing swimming hole, but also hours of entertainment for the whole family.

The crystal clear creek flows at a rate of 80 million litres per day, which provides plenty of flowing water allowing you to drift downstream on just about any kind of inflatable or pool noodle.

Cutting across the island to the west coast is the breathtaking Awinya Creek camping area where paradise is elevated to a whole new level – with white sand stretching to the horizon, and sunset painting the sky and sand every shade of red, orange and yellow that can be imagined.

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Further north along the east coast, as you round Indian Head, is Champagne Pools.

This series of natural rock pools provide a sheltered swimming area in the otherwise unforgiving ocean. When the tides are timed just right, the largest waves crash over the rocks into the swimming pools in spectacular fashion, creating plenty of foam and excitement for those swimming in relative safety.

For those in need of a serious 4×4 challenge, head to Ngkala Rocks, one of Australia’s most notorious 4×4 obstacles. K’gari is also famous for its superb fishing, especially along the eastern coastline directly into the South Pacific.

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Don’t forget about the dingoes. They’re extremely common across the island, and sadly the 300 or so resident animals have become quite habituated to humans.

You’ll see them prowling the shoreline searching for any tasty morsel they come across. In the late afternoons and evenings they have learned that humans and campsites mean food, so they move up into the dunes where they inevitably come into close contact with people.

Attacks on adults are exceedingly rare, but dingoes have attacked and seriously injured children on more than a few occasions over the years.

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4. CREB track, Cape York

Words and photos: Dan Grec

If beach driving doesn’t interest you, perhaps a trip along the famous CREB track in Cape York is on the cards.

Created as the service access track for the old Cairns Regional Electricity Board (CREB), the track mostly follows ancient aboriginal foot trails through dense rainforest.

As well as providing spectacular scenery, the CREB is notorious as one of Australia’s most challenging four-wheel drive adventures. With rain the track becomes extremely slippery and dangerous, and vehicles have been known to roll-over in the area.

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The track traverses spectacular World Heritage-listed rainforest as it weaves north from Daintree Village, up and over multiple peaks of the McDowall Range and back down past the Aboriginal community of Wujal Wujal. This track is not to be taken lightly.

For 4×4 enthusiasts, crossing the Daintree River is an iconic challenge on the way to exploring Queensland’s ancient wilderness. A cautious approach is required due to the Daintree’s crocodile population. Once across, mud holes, washouts and soggy stretches will challenge 4×4 talent as the track begins to climb. The dense jungle will quickly close in as the track grows steeper and more challenging.

The CREB slices through Daintree National Park, which contains the oldest rainforest anywhere on earth. Because the rainforest here has existed continuously for more than 110 million years, many species of trees and plants are the ancient ancestors of more common species today.

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This flora dates back roughly 30-50 million years and gives scientists a direct window into the past, and what the planet looked like long ago.

Elsewhere on earth these ancient plants and trees died out millions of years ago, and can only be studied as fossils. This park is made up of trees and plants that existed when dinosaurs roamed the earth, so is a literal Jurassic Park.

The Daintree is also home to thousands of animal species, including the majestic cassowary. Equally as flightless as emus but much more beautiful, cassowaries are typically wary of humans but can get very aggressive when provoked or while defending their young.

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Their three-toed feet have large claws that resemble a velociraptor, making you think you might actually see a dinosaur wander by.

Cassowaries have on occasion killed people, leading to the label of ‘world’s most dangerous bird’.

The entire region has enormous cultural and spiritual significance to the local Aboriginal people, and in a historic deal made by the government of Queensland, the eastern Kuku Yalanji people took formal ownership of Daintree National Park in 2021.

Oh, and of course, watch out for crocodiles!

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5. Expedition National Park

Words and photos: Kev Smith

For something left of centre, a trip to this hidden paradise is well recommended. Located 500km northwest of Brisbane, Expedition National Park is a hidden gem in Central Queensland’s sandstone country.

Spanning just over 1000km², the park offers a remote wilderness experience, with rugged 4×4 tracks, tranquil gorges and waterholes, making it an ideal destination for off-road enthusiasts. While some sections are accessible by 2WD, a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended to fully explore the park’s stunning landscapes and remote corners. Visitors should be self-sufficient, as the park is isolated with limited facilities.

The park’s highlights include several campgrounds, such as Starkvale, accessible only by 4×4, which has toilets, firepits and non-potable water.

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For more secluded camping, Beilba and Lonesome Bush Camp are excellent options, with the latter offering a peaceful, unserviced camp with breathtaking views of the Dawson River. Bookings are essential for all campsites, especially during peak seasons.

Taroom, 380km north of Brisbane, serves as the gateway to Expedition NP. This small town offers a variety of local attractions, including Chain Lagoons, Lake Murphy Conservation Park, and fishing at Dawson River. Taroom is also home to historical landmarks, such as the Leichhardt Tree, marked by the 1844 explorer, Ludwig Leichhardt.

Access to Expedition NP is via several roads, though rain can close some tracks. The main entry into the park leads to Robinson Gorge, where visitors can explore deep gorges, striking sandstone cliffs and palm-lined rivers. For those with 4×4 capability, the track to Starkvale Creek offers a rewarding experience, passing through remote cattle stations and historical cattle yards.

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Once at Starkvale, the campsite beside the creek is pristine, with clean facilities and a tranquil atmosphere.

From here, a 4×4 track leads to Cattle Dip Gorge, where sweeping views of the water-filled rock pools can be enjoyed. Hiking trails, such as the Robinson Gorge Lookout and Shepherds Peak Track, offer spectacular views and the opportunity to immerse in the park’s wild beauty.

The area is part of the Sandstone Belt, stretching over 82,000km² across Central Queensland. The landscape is shaped by millions of years of geological history, with layers of ancient sand worn away to reveal dramatic rock formations. The park conserves a variety of plant communities and protects vulnerable species, including several animals listed as endangered.

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In the late 1800s, the land was used as a sheep station, and remnants of old shepherd huts can still be found scattered throughout the park.

The nearby Robinson Gorge Track is a low-range 4×4 route that traverses creek crossings, rutted roads and steep climbs. Oil Bore Road then heads towards Lake Nuga Nuga, a large natural waterbody in the Arcadia Valley. The lake is a haven for birdlife and offers bush camping by its shores, with stunning views of Mount Warrinilla.

The Lonesome Bush Camp, located high above the Dawson River, is accessible by Arcadia Valley Road and offers a tranquil setting, perfect for unwinding.

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From here, the Mount Jiman Loop passes dramatic rock formations and vivid earth-coloured cliffs.

The drive to Karingbal Pass is another highlight, with steep, rugged tracks leading to spectacular views across the valley and surrounding sandstone cliffs. The area is known for its ancient bottle trees and cycads, adding to the region’s unique natural beauty.

While Carnarvon Gorge often steals the spotlight in the region, Expedition NP is a rewarding alternative for those seeking adventure, history and stunning landscapes. Whether hiking, camping, or tackling challenging 4×4 tracks, this remote park offers an unforgettable experience in one of Queensland’s most ancient and unspoiled regions.