Isuzu has a new flagship model sitting atop its D-MAX model line-up, with the Walkinshaw-fettled D-MAX Blade revealed and set to land in dealerships across the country from November 1.

The all-new Blade will launch with a price of $76,990 drive-away – IUA says this is a special introductory price, so expect that to rise in 2025. That price tag means it only costs marginally more than the former flagship D-MAX X-Terrain (at $70,500 before on-road costs), and despite no change to the powertrain there’s plenty of Walkinshaw treatment included to justify spending that little bit more.

The collaboration between Isuzu Australia and Walkinshaw essentially began more than three years ago, when Walkinshaw began concepting and prototyping the previous-gen D-MAX in secret at its Clayton base in Victoria. The hush-hush development included countless back-and-forth discussions between Isuzu and Walkinshaw to ensure the Blade would stand out but also remain true to the regular D-MAX.

1

“Before we even kicked this project off, we spent months speaking with local engineering outfits to determine how to best bring the Blade to life,” said Isuzu UTE Australia’s Managing Director, Mr Junta Matsui. “In the end, we chose to partner with Walkinshaw due to their unrivalled local LCV experience and local engineering and design talent pool – with the finished product speaking for itself.”

Following countless hours of evaluation including more than 100,000km of durability testing at Lang Lang, as well as a six-day 3300km test trip to the Flinders Ranges via Arkaroola and Cameron’s Corner – towing a Wayfarer no less – the end result is a vehicle loaded with kit that will prove of use when off-road.

The decision was made to use the D-MAX LS-U+ as the base vehicle, which means, in addition to the regular equipment gained with the LS-U, it gets leather-accented upholstery with black stitching; an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat; and heated front seats. Enter Walkinshaw.

1

From this base vehicle, Walkinshaw then harnessed the experience gained from previous projects – SportsCat, Amarok and Triton – and worked its magic, giving the Blade a 29mm lift courtesy of new suspension and a larger wheel and tyre package. Monroe 35mm MTV twin-tube dampers, tuned for local conditions, were installed and are said to be 16.6 per cent larger than the original 30mm items.

This suspension set-up has been paired with 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tyres wrapped around satin black 17×8.5-inch flow-formed alloy wheels with a +17mm positive offset. For comparison’s sake, the LS-U+ is fitted with 265/60R18s with a +33mm positive offset, giving the Blade a track increase of 32mm.

For the Blade, Walkinshaw doubled the thickness of the D-MAX’s underbody protection steel bash plate from 1.5mm to 3.0mm. Behind the bash plate, Walkinshaw engineers also developed a new eight-tonne load-rated recovery point system with an integrated cross member – essentially making it a single-piece unit. Despite all of these changes, there was no impact on towing and payload capacities.

1

Walkinshaw’s design team, lead by Chief Designer, Julian Quincey, has implemented a revised satin black front grille surrounded by a hexapod motif, a design feature that has been utilised throughout the exterior including on the bigger wheel-arch flares. An integrated 112w light bar is a welcome addition; plus there’s no shortage of decals and satin black geometric stripes throughout the exterior.

“Visually, with the widened stance and increased ride height, the Blade makes an absolute statement.” said Julian Quincey. “But equally, it looks a part of the Isuzu range.”

The interior is relatively unchanged, save for the addition of Blade lettering on the head rests, floor mats and scuff plates, as well as individually numbered Blade identification plaques located on the transmission selector surround.

1

A full list of Walkinshaw changes

• 244mm ground clearance
• 29.2° approach angle
• 19.2° departure angle
• 25.2° breakover angle
• Blade-exclusive lifted suspension, finished in signature Isuzu red
• Blade-exclusive 3mm bash plate underbody protection, finished in signature Isuzu red
• Blade-exclusive 8-tonne load rated recovery points with cross-bracing, finished in signature Isuzu red
• Blade-exclusive satin black 17×8.5-inch +28 flow-formed alloy wheels
• 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tyres
• Satin black front grille with ISUZU lettering
• Satin black front bumper cladding
• Satin black fender flares with integrated air curtains
• Blade-exclusive widened mud flaps
• Satin black ‘BLADE’ lettering across tailgate
• Blade-exclusive satin black tailgate badging
• Blade-exclusive satin black decals on front bar, bonnet, doors and tailgate
• Blade-exclusive satin black tubular side steps
• Satin black one-piece extended sports bar with integrated stop lamp
• Tinted lens light bar integrated into the front grille
• Blade embroidered headrest
• Blade embroidered floor mats
• Blade embossed scuff plates
• Individually numbered Blade identification plaque on transmission selector surround
• Individually numbered Blade identification plaque in engine bay
• Basalt Black tailgate and door handles
• Basalt Black door mirrors
• Available in Moonstone White pearl, Basalt Black mica, Granite Grey mica or Sunstone Orange mica

However, an obvious omission is that IUA and Walkinshaw have left the powertrain unchanged. And while the 3.0-litre 4JJ is a proven, reliable engine, its 140kW and 450Nm outputs remain untapped. For a brand known for being big and brash, this is likely to irk a few people, and Walkinshaw says the decision was made based on cost, stringent regulations and, as a result, time.

And while the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel is more than enough for off-road grunt work, the lack of an engine tickle means the Blade is – on paper – more in line with Premcar’s Navara PRO-4X Warrior rather than a desert-tearing Ranger Raptor – which may disappoint those hoping for a relentless off-road racer.

1

The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4×4 system that remains as per the regular D-MAX. As it’s based on the LS-U+ variant, a rear diff lock is standard, as is Rough Terrain mode.

The Blade is equipped with the full suite of safety kit that comes standard with the MY24 D-MAX. This includes Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) which consists of: AEB with Turn Assist; Forward Collision Warning; Adaptive Cruise Control; Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control; Traffic Sign Recognition; Lane Departure Warning; Lane Departure Prevention; Lane Keeping Assist; Emergency Lane Keeping; Blind Spot Monitoring; Rear Cross Traffic Alert; Rear Cross Traffic Brake; Welcome Headlight; Digital Reversing Camera; Trailer Sway Control; and eight airbags.

Just like the regular D-MAX, Isuzu will offer a six-year/150,000km warranty, and up to seven years of roadside assistance for the Blade. Isuzu will initially have 400 vehicles to distribute at launch, before ramping numbers up in the new year.

Stay tuned to 4X4 Australia to read our full review when the embargo lifts on November 1.

Capacities

Dimensions

The spacious, comfortable and capable third-generation Mitsubishi Pajero Sport has been on sale since 2015.

For a long time it has offered a reasonable price, a capable selectable four-wheel drive system and decent on- and off-road capability. It received an additional update in 2021, as well a minor facelift more recently to keep it relatively fresh for 2024.

The ute-based four-wheel drive segment is quite competitive – think Isuzu MU-X, Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and the soon-to-be-launched Toyota Prado, but is the Paj Sport still worth considering?

1

What is new?

For MY24, the Pajero Sport has received a refreshed exterior, new wheels and upgraded interior. 2WD models are no longer available for the Australian market due to lack of demand, and the Pajero Sport remains powered by a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine that is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and selectable 4WD system.

Features that have been added include an automatic LED headlight function, automatic rain-sensing wipers, a revised 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheel design, a darkened black headlight extension, and revised front and rear bumper trims.

1

There is also a choice of two new colours stolen from the new-gen Triton: Blade Silver Metallic, which is available on the GLX, GLS and Exceed; and Graphite Grey with a black roof, which is available only on the GSR.

Inside the cabin, the Pajero Sport has received a new steering wheel that has been lifted from the latest Triton, as well as a new, updated digital instrument display for Exceed and GSR modes – as well as an improved standard specification for GLX.

How much is it and what do you get?

Prices start from $51,540, topping out at $64,840 before on-road costs; so, depending on the model variant, prices are up between $1600 and $2400.

This is similar to an Isuzu MU-X, which kicks off from $54,900 for the LS-M 4×4 model to $61,400 for the LS-U 4×4. However, it is still cheaper than a Ford Everest, which is priced between $59,240 for the base Ambiente 2.0-litre 4×4 diesel, to $81,115 for the top-spec Platinum.

The entry-level GLX is only available as a five-seater and is priced from $51,540 before on-road costs. GLX includes side steps, roof rails, LED daytime running lights, cloth upholstery with driver’s lumbar adjustment, an eight-inch touchscreen with both wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four speakers, and an analogue gauge cluster.

1

The next model grade is the GLS, which is priced from $56,890 before on-road costs. For a budget family-friendly version, this is the pick of the range as it gets a seven-seat configuration along with a power tailgate, integrated satellite navigation, a six-speaker sound system, and a rear differential lock.

There is also a $2350 Deluxe option for the GLS, which adds leather-appointed seats, driver’s side electric adjustment, and Mitsubishi’s (MAM) multi-around monitor that provides a 360° bird’s eye view of the car.

1

The Exceed is priced from $62,590 and is a premium variant that comes with an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, heated front row seats, a premium eight-speaker sound system, front parking sensors, and a remote app function via a smartphone.

The top-spec GSR is priced at $64,840 and includes a new two-tone burgundy, black premium synthetic leather trim, and black door mirrors, door handles and a tailgate handle. The GLX also benefits from dusk-sensing headlamps and rain-sensing wipers.

Storage and practicality

The standard GLX is exclusively a five-seater, whereas the GLS, Exceed and GSR come with seven-seat configurations. There are plenty of storage solutions throughout the cabin and, in terms of connectivity, there is an HTMI in the lower section of the dashboard along with two USB Type-A ports. Unfortunately, the CarPlay feature is wired and, as my iPhone 16 is USB Type-A only, I couldn’t connect to Apple CarPlay.

In the second row, there is a 150-watt power socket along with a USB-A port, air vents on the roof, map pockets, bottle holders in the doors, and a centre armrest with two cup holders. For passengers, there is a decent amount of space for legroom for all three adults, but the rear pews aren’t as wide as a Ford Everest or Toyota Prado. The seats also recline backwards and forwards, but have no sliding adjustment. For young families, there are two ISOfix points, as well as a roof-mounted child restraint top tether point for three points.

1

In the third row, there are no ISO fix points or top tether points and, in terms of space, it is only suitable for occasional use or small children.

Boot space with the first row in place is rated at 131 litres; and with the second row in place it expands to 673 litres for the five-seat GLX and 502 litres for the GLS, Exceed and GSR. With all seats folded, it amounts to 1624 litres for the five-seater version and 1488 litres for all seven-seat versions.

All variants also receive a 12V power socket, a small underfloor compartment, a full-sized spare wheel, and Exceed and GSR models get an automatic power tailgate.

Is it safe?

The Pajero Sport received a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2015, but it is worth noting that all vehicles built from January 1, 2023, are currently unrated at this point.

The standard GLX comes with a reversing camera with rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Exceed and GSR models receive blind-spot monitoring, front parking sensors, a surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert.

Powertrain

The 133kW/430Nm 2.4-litre MiVEC diesel engine performs admirably compared to its closest rivals, but when accelerating beyond 80 to 90km/h, there is a bit of a delay and the turbo-diesel is not as punchy as something like a V6-equipped Ford Everest.

Refinement-wise, the seats in the Pajero Sport offer a lot of comfort. After three hours behind the wheel, the ride remained quite reasonable for a body-on-frame 4WD. In comparison to an MU-X, the steering feels a bit more solid on the road, and the eight-speed gearbox remained fairly responsive through town.

The claimed fuel consumption is at 8.0 litres per 100km, and I managed to achieve 8.6 litres after driving 71k – from Adelaide’s CBD to St Ives. The fuel tank size is 68 litres in capacity.

All variants feature a 4WD transfer box, Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4WD system, selectable off-road modes, and a rear differential as standard for the GLS, Exceed and GSR. The paddle shifters were quite useful, shifting gears between first and second while performing some mild off-roading at Adelaide Hills 4WD Park.

Off-road specs

Towing specs

Ownership

Mitsubishi Australia offers a five-year/100,000km vehicle warranty that covers all new Mitsubishis as standard. Additionally, if you stay on top of your scheduled servicing with the Mitsubishi network, that extends your warranty to an impressive ten years or up to 200,000km, a 10-year capped price servicing plan and four years of complimentary roadside assistance.

The Pajero Sport’s service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first, and each visit is between $449 to $999 depending on the service that is required.

1

Verdict

The interior may look outdated compared to most of its rivals, and its performance isn’t the best in its category; but as a value proposition, the Pajero Sport offers the best if you want full four-wheel drive capability and decent space for a growing family. In terms of recommended model grade, it’s hard to go past the GLS with the Deluxe pack.

Pricing

*All prices exclude on-road costs **Deluxe pack for the GLS adds $2350

Chery has put on display a K11 Off Road concept, with the adventure-ready dual-cab ute expected to be in showrooms next year.

On show in Wuhu, China – and spotted by Philippine publication AutoIndustriya – the K11 concept looks fit to challenge the likes of LDV and GWM in Australia, but when (or even if) we see it here is yet to be confirmed.

The idea of a Chery ute was first floated way back in June 2022, when news emerged the Chinese brand was hinting at the idea of introducing a ute to compete in Australia against rivals such as GWM and LDV. However, details were non-existent at that early stage.

1

1

According to the AutoIndustriya report, Chery is aiming to have two different designs of the KP11: the Urban, and the Off-Road (as seen here). The report also indicated Chery plans to launch the KP11 ute with three powertrain options: a 2.4L turbo-petrol; a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV); and a range-extender (RE-EV/REEV) vehicle.

This model pictured is shown equipped with a rooftop tent and awning, and it’s rolling on BFGoodrich all-terrains.

Further information and specifics at this stage are extremely scarce, but we’ll bring you the latest information when it comes to light.

Images snapped by Autoindustriya.com

The FOTON Tunland ute is set to land in Australia in the first half of 2025, following the brand’s local relaunch at the end of this year.

Both the Tunland V7 and V9 – a new range of “new energy” and internal combustion utes – are slated to arrive by June next year, joining the Aumark S light-duty commercial truck range in Foton showrooms, which will launch toward the end of 2024.

To be distributed by Inchcape, both Tunland variants are expected to be influenced by the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, but the Chinese offering will undercut both in price. More information will be revealed closer to the launch.

1

The story so far ?

The FOTON Tunland single- and dual-cab ute was last seen in Australian showrooms in 2019, but the appointment of Inchcape as the brand’s new distributor will see its imminent return.

1

However, the 2023 Foton Tunland G7 (SWB) and Tunland V9 (LWB) sold in overseas markets – but never in Australia – are both powered by a 120kW 2-0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, either mated to a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The V9 comes with a 48V mild-hybrid system.

In addition to re-launching FOTON’s new generation of utes, Inchcape – also the distributor of Subaru, Peugeot and Citroen vehicles in Australia – will initially focus on expanding the presence of FOTON’s light-duty trucks.This will be followed by the introduction of vans, with electrification of its utes and vans slated for the future.

1

“The addition of the FOTON distributorship enables Inchcape to diversify its local distribution portfolio by entering entirely new segments of the Australian market, including utes and light- duty trucks, and further strengthen our presence in the light commercial vehicle segment with FOTON’s vans also forming part of the local product pipeline.” said Colin Christie, Managing Director, Inchcape Australasia.

Damon Xu, VP, Foton International, added: “With a shared commitment to delivering value for our customers as we bring more high-quality products and services to Australian consumers, FOTON’s partnership with Inchcape, a global leader in distribution, will strengthen our presence in the local market.”

Stay tuned for more details when they are released.

Nissan’s GQ/GU series of Patrol has deservedly won itself a reputation as one of the toughest and most dependable 4x4s of all time.

As the basis of touring rigs that have covered thousands of kilometres around the country and the globe, and the bedrock of the toughest competition trucks, it’s a reputation that is well earned.

This reputation was the appeal for Victoria’s James Atkinson who recognised the strengths of the venerable Nissans; as a mechanic at the 4×4 Offroad Clinic in Melbourne’s south-east he has seen first-hand the durability that Nissan has built into its Patrols, so he knew one would be right for him.

1

“I’ve always been attracted to how tough a GQ single-cab ute looks, and how strong the driveline and chassis is in Nissans,” James told us.

We couldn’t agree more with him and like James we reckon that the earlier, round headlight GQs are the better looking of the breed and the ones to get. This example is James’s second GQ after previously owning a 2.8 wagon, but he had a hankering for a coil-cab ute and bought this clean example back in 2022.

No puny 2.8 for James his time around, the ’93 model tray-back came with the legendary TD42 4.2-litre diesel that the previous owner had added a turbocharger to. Nissan’s TD42 sixes might be known for their durability but you can’t say much about their power outputs, even with the later factory turbo models. That hasn’t stopped Patrol owners wicking them up and adding some life to the old Nissan lump. For a mechanic like James, it was only a matter of twirling the spanners and adding the right hardware.

1

The engine was pulled out and the bottom-end rebuilt, but retaining the naturally aspirated specifications.

The top-end copped turbo valve springs, turbo injectors, turbo pre-combustion chambers, and a turbo head gasket, all in readiness to accept some boost from a UFI 18G turbocharger via a HPD top-mount intercooler and 40mm Turbosmart external wastegate. The air enters the mill through a weld-on top half intake plenum, where it meets the diesel fuel supplied via an 11mm pump.

The 4.2 gulps air via a PatrolDocta snorkel and a modified airbox before it is compressed to the tune of 27psi, mixed with diesel, goes bang, and then exits via a three-inch stainless steel exhaust that James welded up for the job. The result of all that activity is 112kW and 394Nm measured at the hubs on the dyno.

1

While it’s one thing to turn up the boost and fuel to get the most out of a 4.2, keeping them cool becomes a challenge as they are known to blow steam when you load them up ascending big hills. James has reduced temperatures with a 4×4 Offroad Clinic water pump and a new viscous fan hub.

The engine now makes enough grunt to turn those 37-inch Trepadors when the Patrol is out on the tracks, but for everyday driving the Treps are replaced with a set of 35-inch X-Comp Gladiators. This not only makes it better to drive on the road but it attracts much less attention from the Jacks than it does with the bead-locked 37s fitted. Aside from the beadlock wheels, everything else on the modified Patrol is engineer approved.

The GU Patrol was an evolution of the GQ and as it was slightly bigger and heavier, it scored some heavier duty components which thankfully slip easily under the older model.

1

James’s GQ benefits from GU diffs which are not only stronger but also wider to increase the GQ’s wheel track, and they have bigger and better brakes. These diffs are stuffed full with 4.6 geared ARB air lockers front and rear.

The front is located using Superior Hyperflex radius arms and an adjustable Roadsafe Panhard rod, while the rear-end uses Superior long arms, adjustable rear upper control arms, and an adjustable Panhard rod, the latter both from Roadsafe.

Suspending the heavy axles and smoothing out the bumps are Dobinson remote reservoir adjustable shocks and a set of six-inch flexy coils up front, while under the back, another pair of Dobinson remote reservoir adjustable shocks and 250kg rated coils do the work.

1

The coil-cab Patrol was in pretty good nick when James picked it up and only required a bit of tidying up to get it looking as good as it does. It even had the PatrolDocta front bar and the high-mount 8274 fitted, but James has added his own touch to both of these.

He made his own set of side-rails and sliders and pulled the winch off to give it a rebuild, adding a drilled and tapped brake shaft, pinned free spool and braced housing. An Albright solenoid controls the power to an Iskra Mahle motor via heavy duty 120mm-sq cables. James says it’s a winch that gives him the confidence to hit the harder tracks knowing that he has the pulling power to get out of trouble if needed.

“Being twin locked and (with) a strong high mount winch means I can go just about anywhere in Australia and not have to worry about being stuck,” he told us.

1

You might get the impression that James is pretty handy with the tools and fabrication, and nowhere is that talent more evident than with the tray fitted to the Patrol.

James made it in the carport at home with help from his dad, saying that they spent about six months tinkering with it and he couldn’t be happier with the result. That said, he’s now working on a canopy to fit to the tray with some more long-distance touring planned in the future. As well as continuing to hit the tough tracks around Melbourne, James wants to see more of Australia.

“I did a trip in January that started off at the beach in Robe, South Australia and we made our way to Arkaroola and Wilpena Pound. It was awesome exploring out in the middle of nowhere.

1

“I want to finish the canopy set up and go to a bigger fuel pump, maybe aim for 150kW, and then start touring around Australia doing Cape York and Fraser Island among other places,” James says. Sounds like a bloody good plan to us and he’ll certainly have the rig to do it.

He’s the first to admit that skill only gets you so far and help from the right people will get you even further. James thanks his folks Joanne and Stewart Atkinson; he says their endless support made this build possible.

Also, his boss Damien Witts at 4×4 Offroad Clinic who is “my boss/sponsor/supporter when I need parts, advice or a hand”.

The myCOOLMAN Recreational 20 fridge is a tough little unit that’s ideally suited for camping trips, off-road adventures and more.

The fridge’s compact design will suit those with limited space; it measures 452 x 346 x 368mm and weighs just 10kg, so it fits comfortably in most vehicles and can be easily transported. Despite its small size, the fridge offers a generous 19.3L capacity (24 cans) with internal dimensions of 280 x 205 x 235mm in the large section, and 160 x 205 x 235mm in the small section.

A sturdy handle makes carrying the fridge easy… even when full. The controls are user-friendly and feature a bright digital display that’s easy to read and operate, even in direct sunlight. The display shows the current fridge temperature, and it’s easy to adjust the settings. You can also monitor and control the fridge via Bluetooth using the myCOOLMAN Recreational Series app.

1

Energy efficiency is a standout feature of this fridge and it also has an eco mode that further reduces power consumption, while multiple power options add to its versatility. The 12/24V DC input is ideal for vehicle use, and the 100-240V AC adapter means you can use it at home as well.

It can also be powered using the DC-DC myCOOLMAN Lithium PowerPack. This versatility allows you to seamlessly transition from using the fridge in your vehicle to using it indoors. Battery protection modes ensure your car battery doesn’t drain while the fridge is running.

The powerful compressor cools the Recreational 20 quickly, and the fridge operates with a temperature range from -18°C to +10°C, which means it will keep your food chilled or your ice cream frozen. On test, when plugged into 240V, it took around 20 minutes to chill the fridge from a room temperature of +21°C to 2°C, which was handy for food shopping.

1

When running the fridge off the myCOOLMAN Lithium PowerPack in the back of a car, it maintained a temperature of 2°C for eight hours before recharging was required. Run as a freezer at -18°C using the PowerPack, we could get four hours out of it during the day and six hours at night.

The compressor in the Recreational 20 is both efficient and quiet, cooling quickly and maintaining a consistent temperature, ensuring that your perishables will stay fresh for as long as possible. Aiding efficiency is the fridge’s well-insulated cabinet, which has a layer of high-density foam to keep the internal temperature stable even in hot weather.

The interior wipes clean easily, and the removable lid and baskets make organising and accessing items straightforward. The durable exterior can be cleaned with a damp cloth, keeping it looking good and functioning well.

1

Portability is key for a portable fridge, and the myCOOLMAN Recreational 20 fridge excels in this regard. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, and the sturdy handle provides a comfortable grip. The balanced weight distribution ensures you can carry it without straining, which I found handy when staying in caravan parks as it was easy to move the fridge from the Prado and plug it into a powerpoint to keep it running.

The myCOOLMAN Recreational 20 fridge offers excellent value for money. Its durable construction, reliable performance, and energy efficiency make it a great investment for outdoor enthusiasts. Its rapid cooling, user-friendly features, and efficient insulation set it apart from many competitors.

Plus you can count on it to keep your food fresh and your drinks cold, no matter where you are. The only negative, according to my wife, is that it won’t accommodate a bottle of wine standing up.

RRP: $449

Almost 6000 RAM 1500 DT pick-ups have been recalled due to a software issue with the vehicle’s Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), which could cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to fail and result in a loss of control.

A total of 5916 vehicles built between 2023 and 2024 have been caught up in the recall, with all variants within the model range affected.

A full list of VIN numbers of affected vehicles can be found HERE.

Consumers have been advised to contact their local authorised RAM dealer and they will update the ABS control module software, free of charge. Owners can also contact RAM Trucks customer support by calling 1300 681 655.

RAM only recently announced that its HEMI V8-powered RAM 1500 DT is now in run-out mode in preparation for the launch of the 2025 model, which is expected to be powered by a straight-six powertrain. In 2023, RAM in the USA replaced the 291kW/556Nm 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with the choice of two Hurricane 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six alternatives (a 313kW/636Nm version and a higher-output 403kW/707Nm option).

The recall has been issued by the federal government’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

Mazda has revealed a midlife facelift for its popular BT-50 midsize 4×4 ute range, the biggest update since the new model was launched in 2020.

Sticking with its aim to provide a more stylish and somewhat sportier look than other products in the segment, the 2025 BT-50 has new LED headlights, a new grille with an enlarged logo, and a revised bumper featuring an ‘air curtain’ for increased aerodynamic efficiency. At the back, Around the back, new LED tail-lights frame a new-look tailgate, to complete the exterior upgrades. Fresh alloy wheels are also available.

The changes inside are more significant, with a new infotainment system centred around a screen of up to nine inches depending on model grade. Thankfully Mazda has retained a tactile dial for easy volume control and toggle switches for cabin temperature control, instead of incorporating these regularly used functions within the screen. The driver information screen is now a seven-inch display.

1

Wireless Android Auto is now integrated within the system, joining wireless Apple CarPlay. The centre screen now also displays information previously only found within the MID screen, including real-time vehicle steering and tilt angles, TPMS status, drive mode/diff lock status, and Rough Terrain Mode status.

The BT-50 is expected to remain closely related to the Isuzu D-MAX in its underpinnings and drivetrains, and Rough Terrain was added to the Isuzu ute with its recent upgrade. It essentially recalibrates the electronic traction control for better performance when driving at low speeds off-road.

ADAS systems have been upgraded with new front stereo cameras that doublethe vehicle’s field of view for checking traffic. Traffic Jam Assist is a new feature, as is Rear Cross Traffic Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control. The AEB system also now has motorcycle and pedestrian detection.

1

“Forming an integral part of our Mazda model range here in Australia, the BT-50 has set the tone as a versatile, ready-for-anything vehicle that suits a variety of customer needs whether it’s as a trusty work companion or an enabler for life’s passions,” said Vinesh Bhindi, Managing Director of Mazda Australia.

“For 2025, this impactful new design has matured our much-loved ute to be an even more compelling choice regardless of the task in hand.”

Mazda Australia will reveal more information and pricing on the 2025 BT-50 closer to its launch in the new year.

BYD has confirmed the Shark 6 will be priced below $60,000 when it is officially on sale in Australia from October 29 this year.

Released in partnership with BYD’s exclusive Australian distributor, EVDirect, customer deliveries of the Shark are expected to begin in December.

At this sub-$60K price point, the Shark will significantly undercut top-spec rivals and sit more squarely in-line with its competitor’s mid-spec dual-cab models – think Ranger XLS ($57,380); HiLux SR5 auto ($61,930); D-MAX LS-U auto ($61,000); and Triton GLS ($59,090).

The Shark 6 will also beat the more-closely-aligned GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and PHEV Ranger – which it shares stylistic similarities – to market, but pricing for those two models is yet to be confirmed.

The Shark features BYD’s advanced DM-O (dual-mode off-road) tech, which combines a 170kW 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with dual electric motors for a total output of 320kW. It offers three terrain modes – Sand, Mud, and Snow – and has a claimed range of approximately 800km.

1

It’s a typical body-on-frame, four-door ute, but the Shark’s frame is specifically designed for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The front suspension uses a conventional double wishbone, coil spring independent design, while the rear features a similar configuration without a traditional gearbox or driveshaft connecting the front to the rear axle. This setup enhances the Shark’s driving dynamics, complemented by disc brakes all around and 265/65-R18 tyres fitted to alloy wheels.

Interior features include a 12.8-inch infotainment system that’s compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster; a 360-degree camera system; wireless phone charging; a head-up display; and an NFC key card for added convenience.

Exact pricing and further details will be revealed on October 29.

It may not be an off-road 4×4, but the all-new Inster Cross EV city car has been dressed for ‘mild’ outdoor adventure.

Slated to arrive in Australia in Q1 of 2025, the Hyundai Inster Crossover wears a suite of touring equipment including roof racks as standard (with the option to add a basket); new front and rear bumpers; skid plates; bespoke 17-inch alloy wheels; and embossed black claddings.

1

1

Aside from the aforementioned exterior changes, everything else remains unchanged from the regular Inster model – so both ground clearance and the electric drivetrain remain as per the standard model. Best visit campsites that can be reached via bitumen and mild dirt tracks. The drivetrain is said to offer up to 360km of all-electric range, and it can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 30 minutes.

Safety kit includes an ADAS package consisting of Highway Driving Assist 1.5; Smart Cruise Control; and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5.

In addition to the regular colour palette offered for the Inster, an exclusive exterior colour dubbed Amazonas Green Matte is offered for this specific model. Plus, it gets a unique colour and trim combination of grey cloth with lime-yellow accents in the cabin.

Production will begin later this year at Hyundai’s manufacturing plant in Korea.