Ford Australia continues its water torture like drip-feed of information on the Ranger Super Duty ahead of the model’s release in 2026. The latest trickle of details flows to the Australian testing for the unique Super Duty’s water fording capabilities.

The Ranger Super Duty will have a quoted wading depth of 850mm and to validate that the local engineering and development teams have been out testing the car at its facilities at You Yangs near Melbourne, and out on the rivers in the Victorian High Country.

At the You Yangs Proving Ground is a 50-meter rectangular concrete basin that can go from bone dry to more than a metre deep in minutes making it the perfect controlled environment for systematic vehicle testing.

“With significant force acting on the front of the vehicle during deep water wading, every seal must perform flawlessly so that not a drop of water gets where it shouldn’t,” said Drew O’Shannassy, Ranger Super Duty program engineer at Ford Australia. “Our controlled water bath allows us to repeat our tests for accurate validation, but the real proof comes when conditions become unpredictable.”

The team then took the SD prototype to the Victorian Country and the Crooked Rover Track with its 27-or so river crossings and the track winds its way through the hills near Dargo.

“The first crossing always gets your heart pumping,” Vehicle integration engineer, Ranger Super Duty, Tim Postgate recalled. “You’ve done all the maths, run all the controlled tests, but there’s something about watching the nose of the truck disappear into rushing water that makes engineering very real.”

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The process also tested the performance of the breathers for transmission, transfer case, differentials, fuel and AdBlue tanks, which all sit safely above the 850-millimetre depth mark.

Shallow crossings at higher speeds test everything under the car – from the alternator, to belts, turbo housings and exhaust – forcing engineers to look at ways to prevent water smashing its way past the wheel arch liners. Deeper crossings at controlled speeds test intake sealing and overall water intrusion protection. Each scenario replicates real-world challenges customers encounter.

The team was also testing the Super Duty’s bespoke Safari snorkel. This is different product to the standard Ranger snorkel from Safari not just because of the higher wading depth but also the unique shape of the bonnet and ’guard.

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The Safari equipped Ranger SD came through the proving ground and Crooked River tests damp but unscathed just as any adventurous 4-wheel driver would expect of a vehicle wearing the Super Duty name.

The Ranger Super Duty is on track to be released early in 2026 in single and extra-cab models with the double-cab XLT variants to come soon after, with prices from $82,990.

Ineos Automotive, official partner of the Mundi Mundi Bash, recently carried out one of Australia’s most remote vehicle handovers, putting its “Love It or Leave It” program into action.

Originally limited to the Quartermaster ute and Cab Chassis, the program now applies across the Ineos range including the Grenadier Utility and Station Wagon. The concept is simple: Try it, test it, adventure with it. Ineos is so confident in the Grenadier range that if, within six months, your adventures haven’t left you impressed, they will buy the vehicle back.

At this year’s Mundi Mundi Bash near Broken Hill, three 4×4 owners traded in their existing vehicles for brand-new INEOS Quartermaster dual-cab utes. INEOS has dubbed the move “Love It, So I Left It.”

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“Most handovers happen at a dealership – we prefer ours on the red dirt of the outback, with a soundtrack of live music and a backdrop straight out of a movie,” said Justin Hocevar, Head of Region, INEOS Automotive Asia Pacific. “These customers knew what they wanted. They made the trip, they made the upgrade, and they drove home in vehicles built to take on more.”

The Quartermaster is engineered alongside the Grenadier, pairing off-road capability with the practicality of a dual-cab ute. It’s designed to handle hauling gear into the bush, tackling muddy station tracks, and covering long distances across challenging terrain.

The Quartermaster dual-cab ute and cab chassis is powered by BMW 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with an eight-speed ZF automatic. It offers 264mm ground clearance, 800mm wading depth, and approach, breakover and departure angles unmatched by any other series-production ute. 

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Payload is 907kg (petrol) or 832kg (diesel), with a 3500 kg towing capacity and 7000 kg GCM. Standard features include a centre differential lock and two-speed transfer case, with optional front and rear diff locks, heavy-duty five-link suspension, Carraro solid beam axles and Brembo brakes.

The ‘Love It or Leave It’ offer applies to any Grenadier Station Wagon, Quartermaster ute, or Quartermaster Cab Chassis purchased from 1st July 2025, with terms and conditions.

The Ford Ranger has reclaimed the top spot in Australia’s 4×4 sales race, outselling the Toyota HiLux in August by 4730 sales to 3958.

It capped off a strong month for Ford, with the Everest also taking honours as the best-performing 4×4 wagon. The Everest posted 2203 sales, outselling the Toyota Prado (2033) and finishing behind only the Ranger and HiLux on the 4×4 charts.

At the top end of the ute market, Chevrolet’s Silverado led the American pickups with 310 sales – including 151 of the heavy-duty HD variant – ahead of the RAM 1500 (221) and the Toyota Tundra, which managed just 74.

Across the broader market, Australians bought 100,539 new vehicles in August, the second-strongest result ever for the month. Chinese brands continued their rapid rise, with BYD, GWM, MG and Chery all breaking into the national top ten for the first time. Integral to that rise, BYD’s Shark recorded 1261 sales for the month, lifting its year-to-date total to 12,918.

“The presence of four Chinese brands in the top ten illustrates the continuing evolution of the automotive landscape in Australia. Consumers have an extraordinary range of vehicles to choose from – more than 400 models, including around 100 EVs,” said Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive, Tony Weber.

Toyota still leads overall with 20,791 deliveries in August, followed by Ford (8002), Kia (7402), Mazda (6814) and Hyundai (6322). SUVs dominated the market with 60,495 sales (60 per cent share), while passenger cars made up just 13.1 per cent and continue to track 25 per cent lower year-to-date than in 2024. The LCV market lifted by 704 sales (+3.1 per cent).

A total of 18,529 4×4 utes were sold in August, up 10.5 per cent on the same month last year. That brings the year-to-date tally to 143,985 sales – an increase of 2.1 per cent. Diesel ute sales dipped slightly (1.4 per cent), while petrol variants fell sharply (26.4 per cent).

The top-selling overall models (4×4 and 4×2) for the month were the Ford Ranger (4942), Toyota HiLux (4823), Toyota RAV4 (4115), MG ZS (2680) and Isuzu D-MAX (2314). Also in the top ten were the Ford Everest (2203), Toyota LandCruiser (2117) and Toyota Prado (2033).

Aussie brand Terrain Tamer has purchased the late Steve Irwin’s iconic 1982 Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier.

Before 2013, the Crocodile Hunter’s HJ47 lived at Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, where it ferried staff and handled duties. A local family bought it in 2013, before it recently went under the hammer again with an impressive 415,000km on the clock.

During its time with those owners, the Troopy received a 4.9-litre Cleveland Ford V8 in place of the original diesel, plus a range of mechanical and electrical upgrades – including Terrain Tamer suspension. Fittingly, it was the trademark yellow shocks that first caught the company’s attention.

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“Over the years, customers have learned that if you just want a 4-inch lift, we’re probably not for you, but if you want to survive the outback and all of its demands, then Terrain Tamer Suspension should be your first choice,” said General Manager Brent Hutchinson.

“One customer recently shared that he believes the industry perception is that Terrain Tamer are the best parts around for hard-working LandCruisers, so it feels like a natural fit that this Troopy would be fitted with our suspension and should come to us, where it can be shared with other enthusiasts and operators who appreciate its significance,” he said.

“LandCruisers are a cornerstone of Australian automotive culture, and the Troopy in particular is known for being rugged and practical. With the connection to Steve Irwin, there’s an overlap of cultural identity and automotive history beyond anything mechanical,” Hutchinson added.

The vehicle still wears its “The Crocodile Hunter” branding, and comes with full documentation of modifications, provenance papers, and a signed letter from Steve Irwin’s son, Robert.

Terrain Tamer hasn’t confirmed long-term plans for the Troopy, but for now it will be on display at the Classic LandCruiser Expo & Car Show, Caboolture Showgrounds, on October 18.

Mercedes-Benz has announced the return of a diesel-powered G-Wagen to Australian showrooms with the arrival of the G 450 d, priced from $214,900 (excluding on-road and dealer delivery costs). 

Joining the all-electric EQG and high-performance AMG variants, the G 450 d pairs the G-Wagen’s renowned off-road capability with the efficiency and torque of a six-cylinder diesel. Under the bonnet, a 3.0‑litre inline six-cylinder engine works with an integrated starter-generator and 48‑volt mild-hybrid system to deliver 270kW and 750Nm.

The G 450 d retains the traditional ladder-frame chassis and three mechanical locking differentials. Off-road credentials include 241mm of ground clearance, 700mm of fording depth, stable performance on side slopes up to 35 degrees, and approach and departure angles of 31 and 30 degrees respectively.

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Merc’s OFFROAD COCKPIT system provides key terrain information, while MBUX with Augmented Reality Navigation and the Burmester 3D surround sound system enhance comfort and convenience. Interior highlights include open-pore walnut wood trim, sunroof, digital radio, rear USB ports, and full smartphone integration. The exterior features 18‑inch five-spoke black alloy wheels, MULTIBEAM LED headlights, and a rear-mounted spare wheel.

In standard spec, all-terrain tyres are a no-cost option. For serious off-road enthusiasts, a Professional Exterior Package adds touring features such as a spare wheel holder and roof luggage rack.

The G-Class can be customised with several option packages. The MANUFAKTUR Exterior Package adds a striking roof finish in obsidian or night black magno, with matching bumpers and flared wheel arches. The Interior Comfort Package improves everyday usability and rear-seat luxury, including a heated windscreen, steering wheel and armrests, plus dual 11.6-inch rear-seat entertainment screens. The AMG Luxury Package adds AMG styling elements, Nappa leather interior, 20-inch wheels, side running boards, and detailed interior touches such as stainless steel sill plates and a leather-trimmed dashboard.

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With the AMG Luxury Package, customers can optionally add the Night Package, featuring blacked-out exterior elements and 20-inch black AMG wheels, or the Superior Line Interior Plus Package, which enhances interior comfort and craftsmanship with premium Nappa leather, advanced seating and luxury trim details.

Historically, Australia has seen a number of diesel-powered G-Wagens, from the utilitarian G 300 CDI Professional wagon and cab chassis to the more luxurious G 350 d and, most recently, the G 400 d. The G 400 d launched in July 2021 but was discontinued a year later in July 2022, making it the last diesel G-Class sold locally. 

Since then, no diesel variant has been available in Australian showrooms, though the G 450 d mild-hybrid diesel offered in Europe had been flagged as a possible future addition.

Pricing (MRLP):

• G 450 d: $214,900 (excluding on-road and dealer delivery costs)
• MANUFAKTUR Exterior Package: $4100
• Interior Comfort Package: $8500
• PROFESSIONAL Exterior Package: $15,900
• AMG Luxury Package: $18,000
• Night Package: $5600 (AMG only)
• Superior Line Interior Plus Package: $14,200 (AMG only)

GWM is expanding its electrified lineup with the all-new Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV. Set for release in Q4 2025, it’s GWM’s fourth PHEV this year and the third model to use its Hi4-T hybrid system.

Under the bonnet, the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV combines a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine with a 120kW electric motor, delivering 300kW and 750Nm. Power goes through a nine-speed Hybrid Automatic Transmission to a torque-on-demand 4WD system.

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The Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV retains three locking differentials, low-range gearing and 11 selectable driving modes. Ground clearance is listed at 213mm, while approach and departure angles are listed at 30° and 24° respectively. Wading depth is an impressive 800mm, and maximum braked towing capacity is 3000kg.

A 37.1kWh battery provides up to 120km electric range (NEDC) and a combined range of 950km. Charging includes 50kW DC fast charge and AC home charging, with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) to power tools or camping gear off-grid.

Inside, the five-seat cabin features heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row seats, a 14.6-inch touchscreen, three-zone climate control, and a seven-inch rear passenger interface for controlling infotainment and climate settings.

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Safety kit includes seven airbags, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, parking sensors, and a 360° camera system.

GWM backs the Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV with a seven-year/unlimited km warranty, including battery coverage, roadside assistance, and capped-price servicing. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Without a doubt, the most common question I get asked by people when they find out what I do for a living is, “When are we all going to be driving 4×4 EVs?”

This is often followed by, “How much longer will I be able to buy diesel fuel?” These questions really show how much misinformation there is out there regarding EVs and their emergence on the market. Yes, EV passenger cars are coming in big time, but it will be some time yet before we are using an EV for the sort of long-distance and off-road touring that we do. And if you’re driving a diesel-fuelled 4×4 now you’ll be able to buy fuel for it for the life of that vehicle.

Despite the rapid growth in sales of EV cars, they still don’t have the range required for touring long distances and the charging infrastructure isn’t up to the standard we expect when travelling in our diesel- and petrol-fuelled 4x4s. Also, there are very few EVs available now that offer proper 4×4 off-road ability.

We’ve even jumped behind the wheel of the Ford Lightning EV. This truck was imported and converted to right hand drive by a private company, and Ford Australia tells us it has no plans to bring the Lightning in as part of its F-150 truck program, but it is an off-road capable EV that you can buy now.

The Shark PHEV has taken the market by storm, and it looks like the BYD Shark may be the first midsize 4×4 ute to arrive as an EV. Other than that there are not a lot of EV 4x4s coming soon… but they will be here soon enough.

Whether you will be able to actually take them anywhere interesting is another thing.

Is your 4×4 set up for the tracks you really want to tackle?

Whether you’re chasing tougher touring gear, better clearance, or just smarter storage, the right upgrades can make all the difference. We’ve rounded up the latest aftermarket gear hitting the Aussie market this month. If you’re planning your next trip or just looking to get more out of your rig, these are the products worth checking out! 👇

JUMP AHEAD

• Lovells Haulace 5.5t all‑terrain coupling
• Bremtec Big Brake Upgrade kits
• Living In A Bubble window covers – TroopCarrier
• NSV Quick Release Extinguisher Clamps
• Ironman 4×4 Scope 42-inch light bar
• ARB Security Mesh
• MSA 4×4 Drawer Systems – Ford Everest
• Custom Lithium Ultra Slim 100ah battery
• XSpec drawer system – Ineos Grenadier
• Apex Shocks suspension upgrades
• Bluetti Multicooler Fridge + AC180T Power Station
• Loctite 598 RTV silicone

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Lovells Haulace 5.5t all‑terrain coupling

• RRP: $899

Made in Newcastle, the ADR-compliant Lovells HaulAce is a 5.5-tonne-rated off-road coupling designed for caravans, toy haulers and heavy-duty trailers. It features 360-degree articulation, a drop-on connection and a Duplex stainless steel head. Built for harsh Australian conditions, the HaulAce is fully weld-on and complies with ADR 62/02 for safety and performance. Quick to hook up and built to last, it’s a tough and reliable option for serious towing. 🔧 View product details

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Bremtec Big Brake Upgrade kits

• RRP: POA

Available through Adventure Industries, Bremtec’s ADR-compliant P4X Big Brake Upgrade Kits are designed to improve braking performance when towing, off-road or carrying heavy loads. Suitable for vehicles running 17-inch wheels or larger, the kits include high-carbon Evolve P4X rotors with thermal paint indicators, corrosion-resistant coating and aggressive hyper slotting.

Each kit also includes copper-free Pro-Line P4X ceramic pads, braided stainless steel hoses, and lightweight two-piece six-piston aluminium calipers with forged pistons. Kits are available for Ford Ranger PY, Raptor and VW Amarok NF, as well as the Toyota LandCruiser 76, 78 and 79 Series. Rotors and HD4X pads are also sold separately.

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Living In A Bubble window covers – TroopCarrier

• RRP:  $99.95

A new range of insulated window covers for the Toyota LandCruiser TroopCarrier is set to launch in September. Designed for privacy, thermal insulation and complete light block-out, the covers help keep the vehicle cooler in summer, warmer in winter and more comfortable year-round. The full set includes covers for the windscreen, front windows, side glass and rear barn doors, offering all-round protection and reduced heat transfer.

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NSV Quick Release Extinguisher Clamps

• RRP: $110

Designed for 1kg fire extinguishers (80mm diameter), NSV’s Quick Release Clamps allow fast, one-handed access in an emergency. The simple latch system avoids fiddly locks or moving parts, making it easy to operate under pressure. Each kit includes a powder-coated steel bracket tailored to specific vehicles and takes around 20 minutes to install. The system meets ECE and ADR standards and has been extensively crash tested. Fire extinguisher not included. 🔧 View product details

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Ironman 4×4 Scope 42-inch light bar

• RRP: $1699

Pumping out over 35,000 raw lumens, Ironman 4×4’s 42-inch Scope light bar uses Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lenses and hooded reflectors to deliver a broad, usable beam ideal for off-road driving. Efficiency is rated at 88.9 per cent. High-output OSRAM LEDs are mounted directly to a cast aluminium housing for better heat management. The bar is designed to fit Ironman’s Raid roof rack and includes a wiring harness, black lens covers and an illuminated logo that doubles as a DRL. 🔧 View product details

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ARB Security Mesh

• RRP: Optional with ARB canopies

ARB’s Security Mesh adds an internal steel barrier to your canopy, helping deter theft while maintaining airflow and rear visibility. Made from laser-cut, powder-coated steel, it also provides MOLLE mounting points for gear such as 12V controls, tools or storage pouches. It’s a practical addition for pet owners too, creating a secure, ventilated area when paired with the Ascent canopy’s dual-stage window catch. 🔧 View product details

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MSA 4×4 Drawer Systems – Ford Everest

• RRP: $2810 (double); $1405 (LHS or RHS)

MSA 4X4’s storage solution for the Ford Everest offers full drawer extension for easy access, with drawers running on sealed stainless steel bearings and nylon rollers for smooth, quiet operation. The patented Stay-Open Block holds drawers open on slopes up to 30 degrees.

Built from aluminium with stainless fasteners, the system features dust seals, an internal LED light, tamper-resistant locks and reinforced mounts for fridge slides. Removable wing panels provide access to side cavities, and the unit includes a cargo barrier and child restraint points. Crash tested to ADR 3/02, 34/01 and 42. Available in double, left or right-side configurations, and backed by a lifetime guarantee. 🔧 View product details

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Custom Lithium Ultra Slim 100ah battery

• RRP: $1390

Custom Lithium’s 100Ah Ultra Slim battery is built for tight-fit 4×4 installs behind seats, under false floors or inside canopies. Just 55mm high, 300mm wide and 490mm long, and weighing only 14kg, it fits where bulkier batteries can’t.

Made in Brisbane and backed by a seven-year warranty, the battery uses A-grade LiFePO4 cells and features a high-current BMS with active balancing to protect against over-discharge, overheating and short circuits. The aluminium enclosure is built to handle heat, vibration and impacts in harsh off-road conditions. Specs include 180A constant discharge, 700A peak discharge and an operating range of –20°C to 60°C. 🔧 View product details

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XSpec drawer system – Ineos Grenadier

• RRP: $5890

Designed specifically for the INEOS Grenadier, the XSpec drawer system is a heavy-duty aluminium setup built for serious touring and storage needs. It mounts directly to the vehicle floor via a strong base frame and stainless steel hardware, with three welded drawers on heavy-duty locking runners and one-handed latches.

The right and upper left drawers both feature adjustable dividers for larger gear, while the lower left drawer double-extends from beneath the upper unit and includes a flip-up stainless benchtop for cooking or workspace. There’s additional storage underneath for utensils or tools. Wheel arch storage and jack access are retained via removable side lids. The unit is powdercoated for corrosion resistance, weighs around 80kg, and stands approximately 350mm high. Ships flatpacked; fitting available at extra cost. 🔧 View product details

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Apex Shocks suspension upgrades

• RRP: POA

Apex’s 2.5-inch (65mm) shocks feature external compression and rebound adjusters for dialling in ride and handling to suit conditions and load. Built tough, they use high-temp oil, remote reservoirs made from 6061-T6 aluminium, and 22mm hardened chrome shafts for long-term durability.

Remote canisters are linked via braided rubber hoses and stainless high-flow fittings. Kits are available for popular platforms including the LandCruiser, Silverado 1500 and Patrol Y62, with more applications in the pipeline. Backed by a 12-month unlimited-kilometre warranty and local support. 🔧 View product details

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Bluetti Multicooler Fridge + AC180T Power Station

• RRP: $3798

Bluetti’s MultiCooler combines a 40L fridge, freezer and ice maker in one portable unit powered by the modular AC180T Power Station. With the optional B70 LiFePO₄ battery (716.8Wh), it offers up to three days of cooling per charge and cools from 30°C to 0°C in just 15 minutes.

Ideal for remote touring, it runs quietly (under 45dB), can be controlled via the Bluetti app, and includes wheels, a carry handle and 45-degree tilt protection. The B70 battery delivers over 3000 charge cycles and can be recharged via AC, solar or USB-C. The MultiCooler uses VIP insulation and a high-efficiency compressor for off-grid performance. Backed by a two-year warranty. 🔧 View product details

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Loctite 598 RTV silicone

• RRP: $30.98

Loctite 598 is a high-performance, sensor-safe RTV silicone gasket maker designed for sealing engine, gearbox and diff components in demanding 4×4 applications. It resists oil, vibration and high heat, making it ideal for off-road use. Fast-curing and easy to apply, this black silicone is OEM-approved and delivers a reliable, leak-free seal. A handy addition to any 4×4 tool or spares kit.

Chery recently unveiled two new dual-cab utes at the 2025 Chengdu Motor Show in China: the Rely KP2X electric and the Rely KP3X diesel-hybrid.

As per a report on Sohu.com, the KP3X combines a turbo-diesel engine with an electric motor to reduce fuel consumption and noise while still providing towing capability and off-road performance. Chery says the ute has been tested for more than 100 scenarios, including trade and recreational use. If it is brought to Australia, it would potentially be one of the first diesel-hybrid dual-cab utes on the market.

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The KP2X is a fully electric dual-cab aimed at fleet and trade users. It offers towing capacity, low running costs, and digital fleet-management features. Its practical, durable design suggests it could potentially compete with other upcoming electric utes in Australia, such as the BYD Shark, if it arrives locally, providing a genuine alternative for buyers.

Both models use Chery’s Kaitian platform, a ladder-frame chassis designed specifically for utes. The platform supports diesel, hybrid, and electric powertrains and integrates a smart cockpit and vehicle management system.

Chery Australia has confirmed it will launch a plug-in hybrid ute in late 2026, built on a proper ladder-frame chassis, likely to target the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and BYD Shark 6.

While Chery hasn’t confirmed which model will come to Australia, either the KP2X or KP3X could potentially be selected to showcase the brand’s latest technology.

Models that are left-hand drive only, such as the Rely R08 (Chery Himla), are not planned for the local market.

You have to give it to America when it comes to wild four-wheel drive builds.

In Australia, our automotive regulations are ruled with an iron fist, making it extremely difficult and expensive to create one-off machines. It’s possible, but certainly not to the scale of what you can build – and drive daily – in the US of A.

That’s also why restomodding older 4WDs has become so popular. It’s the best of both worlds, with retro styling combined with modern engines and tech. Why? Because you can, that’s why.

Take one look at this 1969 Ford Bronco and tell us you don’t want one. Not only does this beast, owned by Isaac P (he’s asked his last name not to be published), look absolutely stunning – it’s got the off-road and performance creds to match.

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That’s the joy of building a one-off creation like this Bronco: you can make it what you want, rather than what a manufacturer thinks you want.

The process certainly hasn’t been smooth sailing. That almost goes without saying, considering no vehicle build is easy. But the results – and the sheer amount of effort involved – really speak for themselves. This is a uniquely cool off-roader that looks just as at home on the Vegas Strip as it does on the Rubicon.

When asked about the build, Cameron Chin, owner of Nefarious Kustoms, said: “All of these custom touches result in a very classic package, preserved with a fresh modern take. The 460hp Coyote engine and 6-speed box provide the power and reliability one would want in a classic restomod. The coil-over suspension is supple with great road manners, and the interior is as comfortable as any modern luxury vehicle.”

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The story behind this 1969 Ford Bronco

The build began in 2015, when the owner brought his much-loved Bronco to a workshop (which will remain nameless) for cosmetic enhancements and minor tweaks.

As so often happens, the modification list snowballed into a major build. Multiple body panels were replaced, the frame was stripped to the rails, and a poorly executed coil-over conversion with Ford Ranger shocks was fitted.

A new 450hp Coyote engine and six-speed automatic were transplanted – but installed so badly that the motor was leaning against one shock tower. It wasn’t going to plan, basically.

At this point, both the owner and the original shop tapped out. The somewhat sad Bronco was sent to the team at Nefarious Kustoms to correct the suspension and driveline. By then, the build had already taken five years. The decision was made to cut ties with the first workshop completely and let Nefarious take the reins – creating the finished product you see today.

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Ford Coyote power and driveline upgrades

Back in 1969, this Bronco would have rolled out with a 302-cubic-inch V8. Respectable for its day, but far from today’s standards in power, reliability, and efficiency.

Now under the bonnet sits a 5.0L Ford Motorsports Coyote crate motor producing 460hp. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox for a relaxed driving experience on and off road, and linked to a Dana 20 transfer case using a BC Broncos engine swap kit.

While the engine remains mostly stock, a few choice upgrades were added during the build: BC Broncos headers and stainless exhaust, a Powermaster alternator relocation kit, and a Ron Davis alloy radiator with electric fan. The result is a reliable, powerful package ready for long-haul adventure.

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Suspension, axles and off-road setup

Up front, a Dana 44 axle handles the power and abuse from the Coyote and 35-inch BF Goodrich all-terrains on Method Race Wheels. Originally, a Dana 30 sat in its place – but once discovered to be bent, it was scrapped mid-way through a disc-brake conversion. The beefier Dana 44 was the smarter choice.

The Nefarious Kustoms crew, led by Micah Gamponia, fabricated an adjustable trailing-arm suspension setup, added heavy-duty steering arms, and finished with Warn hubs. King coil-overs up front deliver a cushy ride on road, excellent desert composure, and proper flex on rocks.

At the rear, a Ford 9-inch axle takes care of power delivery. A 3.5-inch lift with leaf springs is matched to King 2.0 Smooth Body shocks, while a 2-inch body lift provides clearance for the 35s when articulating or dune-hopping. Disc brakes all round ensure modern stopping power.

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Exterior paint and bodywork

One of the most striking features of this Bronco is its paintwork – Matte Metallic Charcoal laid down by Cheyenne Ruether of Nefarious Kustoms.

Gloss powder-coating on the exterior trim and a bright centre grille add contrast, tying in beautifully with the distressed leather and black stainless trim inside. There’s a fair bit going on inside the Bronco, too. Starting with the door cards, which were supplied by the mad scientists at Icon 4×4. They also supplied their rear panels and map lights.

Some matching corrugated metal was sourced and laser cut for the glovebox fascia as well as gauge bezel inserts that house the Dakota Digital instruments. A custom glovebox was 3D printed, as well as all external trim rings laser cut. What I’m seeing, is not just an impressive level of attention to detail, this thing is just next level.

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Custom Bronco interior and creature comforts

Inside, the Bronco is as impressive as its mechanicals.

Icon 4×4 supplied the door cards, rear panels and map lights, while custom corrugated metal panels were laser cut for the glovebox fascia and gauge bezels housing Dakota Digital instruments. A 3D-printed glovebox and laser-cut trim rings show just how far the attention to detail goes.

Creature comforts weren’t overlooked. A compact Air Hurricane air-conditioning system handles heating and cooling. Nu-Relics power windows, power-folding steps, and a universal power-lock system bring modern convenience. For safety, 6651 Customs in North Las Vegas fabricated and powder-coated a roll cage.

The interior trim is nothing short of luxurious. Four cowhides were used to wrap the seats, dash, steering wheel, doors, and quarter panels. Ian’s Auto Interiors handled the work, also hand-stitching German Square Weave carpet and fitting an Alcantara headliner.

The result? A show-quality interior that perfectly complements this world-class restomod Bronco.

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