4X4 Australia

The Utemaster MK4 Cantilever Roof Rack is the latest evolution of a design refined over nearly ten years. 

The MK4 Cantilever Rack combines the strength of a cantilever design with the versatility of a roof tray, resulting in a rack that works as well on the worksite as it does on the track or out in the bush. It is built to handle serious loads, with a 600kg static rating and a 200kg dynamic rating; and its cantilever mounting reduces stress on the canopy and cab, allowing you to carry long and/or heavy gear safely.

The design also keeps a load stable, so you don’t have to worry about gear shifting or putting unnecessary strain on mounting points.

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Modular and adaptable

Designed to work with the Centurion Canopy, this rack is fully modular.

Cross bars are adjustable forward, back, up or down, letting you set the rack up to suit your load. Integrated T-tracks provide secure mounting points for kayaks, rod holders, recovery tracks, solar panels, awnings, and more, while removable rubber inserts keep gear from sliding and protect what you’re carrying.

A wide range of accessories is also available including awning mounts, conduit carriers, outriggers, load stops, rollers and ratchets. The MK4 Cantilever can also carry roof tents and awnings at the same time, giving you a flexible solution for work, adventure, or a combination of both.

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Unlike standard roof racks, the MK4 Cantilever handles cab and canopy flex without stressing mounting points or exceeding roof-load limits. Its design spreads weight effectively, making it practical for ladders, 1200 mm sheets, conduit, or other long items, while still accommodating accessories.

Custom-designed for each vehicle, the MK4 Cantilever features smooth corners and hidden rivets for a clean, precise finish. Manufactured in New Zealand and thoroughly tested, it comes with a five-year warranty for peace of mind.

MORE Build your dream canopy at Utemaster!

Hyundai and Kia may be exploring ideas similar to the Jeep Gladiator, with the brands reportedly filing a patent for a pickup truck featuring a removable roof.

The filing, published in US and German patent databases, suggests the concept could potentially be used across both brands under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella, even though the diagrams don’t reference the Tasman as a base. If applied to the Tasman line, such a feature would suit its lifestyle-focused ethos.

The patent covers the mechanism for attaching and sealing a large removable roof panel, and also mentions removable doors, allowing for a fully open-air cabin experience. While the filing doesn’t confirm Hyundai or Kia are building a production vehicle with this setup, it shows the companies are exploring future possibilities.

The Gladiator’s modular system is designed for frequent removal, letting owners switch between an enclosed cab and fully open-air setup in around 20 minutes without permanent modifications.

Hyundai is expected to launch a proper dual‑cab ute in Australia by late 2028, aimed at rivals like the Ford Ranger, all-new Toyota Hilux and Kia Tasman. Unlike the Santa Cruz, this will be a body‑on‑frame design and won’t share the Tasman platform.

Engine and drivetrain details are yet to be confirmed, though hybrid or advanced tech options are possible.

MORE Tasman news and reviews!

Ford Australia is currently running a range of discounts on its Ranger line-up, with $3000 off selected MY26 and earlier diesel and hybrid models.

Diesel variants include Wildtrak Bi-Turbo, Sport, XLT and XLS, while the same $3000 reduction applies to hybrid Stormtrak, Wildtrak, Sport and XLT grades.

The MY26 Everest Trend 4×4 (and earlier variants) also have a $3000 discount; while Ford’s F-150 is currently attracting larger savings, with MY23 F-150 XLT and MY23 F-150 Lariat SWB and LWB variants all discounted by $8000. These offers are valid until remaining stock is exhausted and are subject to dealer participation. Ford Australia says the offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and it may vary them at any time.

The Ford Ranger V6 Sport was recently crowned our 2025 4×4 Ute of the Year. Its 184kW/600Nm 3.0‑litre V6 diesel made towing and highway driving effortless, while a near‑tonne payload, 3500kg maximum tow, integrated brake controller and Tow/Haul Mode handled heavy loads with ease. The Sport trim balanced comfort and durability, with a well‑laid-out cabin suited to long drives and bush touring.

With strong V6 torque, full-time 4×4 with dual-range gearing, and a practical, comfortable interior, the Ranger V6 Sport performed equally well on and off the road to secure the title.

MY 2026 Ford Ranger standard pricing

Hybrid dual-cab pick-up

Diesel dual-cab pick-up

MORE Ranger news and reviews!

The NSW Government is inviting the public to have their say on recreational opportunities in the proposed Great Koala National Park on the Mid North Coast.

The park – a key election promise from the Minns Labor Government – will protect more than 100 threatened species, including more than 12,000 koalas and 36,000 greater gliders, while enhancing visitor experiences and supporting local economies. The park will also safeguard 66 other threatened animals and 37 rare plant species, including southern and yellow-bellied gliders, glossy black cockatoos, and unique orchids.

The government is particularly keen to hear from 4WD clubs about how the area is used and what access and recreational opportunities are important to them. Feedback is also being sought from hiking and trail-running groups, mountain bikers, horse riders, shooting and archery clubs, sporting car clubs, local councils, Aboriginal communities, and environment groups.

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“The Great Koala National Park is an election commitment, and we want the community right at the centre of shaping what it becomes. Locals know this landscape best, and their ideas will help create a park people feel real ownership of and want to use,” said Janelle Saffin, Minister for the North Coast. “Done well, this park will also be a major tourism drawcard – supporting local businesses, creating jobs and delivering long-term economic benefits for communities right across the North Coast.”

Steve Whan, Acting Minister for the Environment, added: “The Great Koala National Park will protect more than 100 threatened species, but it’s not just about conservation. The park will be a recreational hotspot for locals and visitors alike. We want to hear from people who use and relax in the footprint of the forests and surrounding landscapes that make up the park.”

An online survey on the NSW Have Your Say website is now open for anyone who currently uses the area’s State forests and reserves, as well as those who may visit in the future.

The Great Koala National Park will include multiple reserves, each with rules for what activities are allowed. Covering more than 475,000 hectares from Kempsey to Grafton and inland to Ebor, it will combine existing reserves with 176,000 hectares of new protected land to create connected, high-quality habitat.

The NSW Government has committed $80 million in the 2023-24 State Budget to develop the park, with an additional $60 million provided to the National Parks and Wildlife Service to support its establishment.

MORE Read the proposal here

Reports have surfaced that confirm the next-gen Ford F-150 Lightning Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) will be offered in Australia, with local remanufacturer AusEV targeting a right-hand-drive launch in 2027.

As with the current Lightning, the new model will not be a Ford Australia factory-backed conversion. Instead, vehicles will be sourced from the US in left-hand drive and remanufactured locally by Brisbane-based AusEV before being released to the Australian market.

As reported in December last year, the headline change is the move away from a battery-only drivetrain. The upcoming Lightning EREV will continue to use electric motors to drive the wheels, but pairs them with a smaller battery and a petrol engine that operates solely as a generator. The engine does not provide mechanical drive, instead topping up the battery during operation and reducing dependence on charging infrastructure.

Ford is yet to publish full production specifications, but has stated the EREV will deliver a combined driving range of more than 1125km under US EPA testing, factoring in both electric operation and generator-assisted running. That figure is a substantial increase over the existing Lightning EV, which is rated between 386km and 515km depending on configuration.

AusEV has also confirmed that despite US production of the current Lightning EV wrapping up in late 2025, it has sufficient inventory to continue supplying Australian customers until the EREV model becomes available.

Never officially offered by Ford Australia, the current F-150 Lightning runs dual electric motors with all-wheel drive, delivering up to 433kW and 1050Nm. Extended-range models are rated at around 515km under EPA testing, with payload quoted at up to 907kg and towing capacity reaching 4536kg when optioned with the Max Trailer Tow package. It also features Pro Power Onboard and supports DC fast-charging at up to roughly 150kW.

Key features are expected to carry over, including bi-directional charging and vehicle-to-load capability, allowing the Lightning to power tools, appliances and campsite equipment – a feature that has resonated with both trade and touring buyers.

MORE F-150 news and reviews!

In an historic debut, Defender Rally claimed the 2026 Dakar Rally Stock class in its Defender Dakar D7X-R.

Rokas Baciuška and Oriol Vidal took the win on the gruelling 13-stage (almost 8000 km) Saudi Arabian course, followed by teammates Sara Price and Sean Berriman in second, and Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body’s Ronald Basso and Julien Menard in third. Dakar legend Stéphane Peterhansel and Mika Metge rounded out an extraordinary event for Defender Rally in fourth place.

The final times underline the team’s dominance. Rokas Baciuška and Oriol Vidal finished in 58 hours, 9 minutes, 45 seconds, with Sara Price and Sean Berriman in 62 hours, 7 minutes, 45 seconds. Stéphane Peterhansel and Mika Metge crossed fourth in 96 hours, 25 minutes, 55 seconds, more than 38 hours behind the leaders.

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“Dreams come true you know, and it was my dream to win Dakar,” said the winning driver, Rokas Baciuška. “For the first year for Defender, it’s amazing. Our mechanics did a great job – what they do is unbelievable, working every day until early in the morning to prepare the cars for the next stage. I give my thanks to them, the engineers, the entire team because without them, we would not be here. It’s great to be P1 and P2.”

Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender, added: “I feel exhilarated, amazed, and I can’t believe it. It hasn’t really sunk in yet. To see the three Defenders come over the line together, it’s the culmination of an incredible team effort. To see us win it in our first race has made history, and to also come second in such style. The team spirit has just been incredible. They’re just so proud.”

The Defender Dakar D7X-R is built on the Defender OCTA bodyshell to FIA Stock‑category rules, keeping the 4.4‑litre twin‑turbo V8, drivetrain, and core body structure standard while adding desert-ready upgrades. It features a 550‑litre rear fuel tank, 35‑inch tyres, a 60 mm wider track, and raised ride height for improved ground clearance. Front and rear bodywork are reshaped for better approach and departure angles, with extended wheel arches and underfloor protection enhancing ruggedness.

Bilstein performance dampers complement the OCTA suspension, while a bespoke rally brake package includes vented discs with six‑piston front and four‑piston rear calipers. Cooling upgrades include a large radiator, four electric fans, bonnet vents, and a sand‑particle filter to withstand heat and dust.

The production eight‑speed automatic gearbox is paired with a lower final-drive ratio for torque-rich off-road performance, with a “Flight Mode” to modulate torque when airborne and protect the driveline.

Inside, the cabin features FIA‑approved six‑buckle seats, a race navigation system, motorsport dashboard, and head-up display, with storage for three spare wheels, tools, compressed air, and integrated hydraulic jacks for long stages.

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Ian James, Team Principal of Defender Rally, said: “Honestly, I couldn’t be more proud of the entire team. Not only the fact that we’ve won Dakar in the way that we have, but the manner in which everybody’s pulled together and worked so hard throughout has been simply outstanding. So, I’m looking forward to the celebrations. A huge congratulations, of course, to Rokas and Oriol in particular, but to every member of the team. A huge thank you for the efforts in getting us to this point, and long may it continue.”

Australia also had strong results across the major Dakar divisions. In the motorcycle category, Daniel Sanders finished fifth overall on his KTM, despite riding with broken bones. In the car (T1) category, Toyota Gazoo Racing W2RC’s Toby Price brought his Toyota Hilux GR home in eighth overall, leading the Gazoo squad through a tough rally.

The next round of the World Rally-Raid Championship runs from March 17 to 22 at the BP Ultimate Rally-Raid in Portugal.

MORE Defender news and reviews!

Mitsubishi has added two new special-edition Triton variants to its Australian line-up, bundling popular accessories into factory-backed packages based on the GLX-R and GSR.

Slated to arrive in dealerships from February this year, the Triton GLX-R Special Edition will be priced from $58,490, while the range-topping GSR Special Edition comes in at $66,140.

The GLX-R Special Edition is paired with a Tradie Accessory Pack, positioning it as a turn-key option for fleets and worksite use. At the other end of the range, the GSR Special Edition comes fitted with a Touring Accessory Pack to target owners planning longer recreational touring.

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Both models reflect a broader push by Mitsubishi to simplify Triton buying decisions by offering pre-configured variants based on how owners actually use their vehicles, whether that’s worksite duty or weekend touring.

“We’re proud to offer our adventurous customers two Special Edition models that have been fitted with accessories packages selected from our Genuine Accessories range,” said Bruce Hampel, MMAL General Manager of Product Strategy. “Alongside our market-leading 10/10/10 Diamond Advantage, Capped Price Servicing and Roadside Assistance Program, these packs offer fantastic value for customers.”

What accessories do they get?

GLX-R Special Edition with Tradie Accessory Pack

GSR Special Edition with Touring Accessory Pack

As is standard across the Triton range, these special edition variants come with Mitsubishi’s 10/10/10 Diamond Advantage warranty program.

MORE Triton news and reviews!

The next-generation Ford Ranger is Australia’s top-selling ute for a reason. It brings real performance, impressive refinement, and a level of capability that suits everyone from trades and families to serious off-roaders.

The platform is strong, the powertrains are impressive, and the Ranger feels perfectly at home both in the city and on long outback roads. But like any popular dual-cab, once you start adding weight, accessories, and bigger tyres, the factory setup begins to show its limits. Touring loads place extra stress on key components, front clearance tightens up, and off-road impacts can push parts beyond what they were designed to handle in harsh Australian conditions. The Ranger is an excellent base, but maximising its true off-road and towing performance often requires targeted upgrades.

This is where Superior Engineering becomes a trusted partner for Ranger owners who want their vehicle set up correctly from day one. Their focus is not on unnecessary modification but on strengthening the areas that matter most, such as chassis rigidity, underbody protection, correct speed calibration after tyre changes, and maintaining proper suspension behaviour.

These upgrades are designed to preserve the Ranger’s factory drivability while giving owners the confidence to tackle rougher tracks, carry more equipment, and explore remote country. With the help of Superior Engineering’s manufacturing and engineering team, we have created a foundational guide for building a reliable and adventure-ready next-gen Ranger that stays safe, capable, and enjoyable in real-world Australian conditions.

4×4 Australia’s top 5 upgrades from Superior Engineering

1. SSM

Extra weight, accessories or larger tyres can affect the vehicle’s electronics and factory systems. Superior Engineering’s SSM solutions ensure the Ranger’s modifications are correctly integrated, maintaining handling, stability and interaction with safety features. This is particularly valuable for owners who tour, tow or equip their Ranger with additional gear.

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2. Under guards

The underside of the next-gen Ranger is exposed to serious punishment in Australian conditions. Sharp rocks, ruts and debris can easily damage vulnerable components if they are left unprotected. Superior Engineering’s stainless under guards are manufactured to suit the Ranger and provide robust protection for critical areas such as the sump and driveline components.

Designed for a direct bolt-on fit, these guards offer excellent impact resistance and corrosion protection without reducing ground clearance. For Ranger owners who plan on beach driving, rocky climbs or remote touring, underbody protection is an essential upgrade for long-term durability.

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3. Speedo corrector

Larger tyres are one of the most common upgrades for Next-Gen Ranger owners, but they immediately throw out factory speedometer accuracy. This affects displayed speed, transmission shift points and fuel calculations. Superior Engineering’s Speedo Corrector recalibrates the vehicle’s speed signal so the dash accurately reflects true road speed. We can’t stress how important this is with Australia’s tightening road rules.

The unit is a plug-and-play solution, making installation straightforward while delivering immediate benefits. Correct speed calibration improves drivability, towing behaviour and confidence on long highway runs, making this one of the most valuable supporting upgrades when tyre size is increased.

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4. Chassis Brace

When a Ranger carries touring loads or tows regularly, the chassis is subjected to increased stress and flex. Excessive chassis movement can place additional strain on suspension components, trays and canopies. Superior Engineering’s chassis brace, manufactured specifically for the next-gen Ranger, reinforces key sections of the frame to improve rigidity and reduce unwanted flex.

By strengthening the chassis, the brace improves handling predictability and supports the vehicle when operating under load. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for owners running canopies, rooftop tents or heavy towing setups.

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5. Strut Spacers

Once accessories such as bull bars, winches or larger tyres are fitted, the Ranger’s front end can begin to sag. Superior Engineering’s strut spacers provide a simple and effective way to restore front ride height and maintain a level stance.

Manufactured to suit the Next-Gen Ranger, these spacers help improve approach angles and front-end clearance without the need for a complete suspension replacement. They are ideal for owners looking to correct front height after accessory fitment while retaining factory suspension characteristics.

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The next-gen Ford Ranger already stands as one of Australia’s most capable and versatile utes.

Its blend of toughness and everyday comfort makes it a favourite among tradies, families and touring enthusiasts. But once real-world off-road demands, heavier loads and accessories are introduced, targeted upgrades can transform the vehicle from capable to genuinely confident. Superior Engineering offers more than a catalogue of parts. They provide manufactured solutions that strengthen the Ranger where it needs support while preserving the drivability and refinement owners expect.

The real benefit of these upgrades is not about making the Ranger look more aggressive. It is about building a ute that can handle remote Australian conditions with confidence, safety and reliability. Whether your plans include touring, towing or long-term ownership, the right combination of suspension support, protection and calibration ensures your Ranger performs at its best wherever it is driven.

MORE Guide to Superior Engineering

The Toyota Prado 250 marks a major step forward for one of Australia’s most popular touring wagons.

It keeps the comfort and long-range practicality that Prado owners love, but adds modern technology, improved body strength, and a more refined driving experience. For families, travellers, and off-road enthusiasts, the new Prado is an incredibly capable base vehicle that performs well both on-road and in the bush. So good, in fact, that it took out the 2025 4×4 Australia Car of the Year.

But, as with any modern 4×4, once accessories, lifts, bigger tyres, and touring loads are added, the factory setup begins to reach its limits. Geometry changes, underbody vulnerability increases, and the suspension can struggle to manage weight and rough terrain. The Prado 250 is a brilliant starting point, but to get it truly ready for Australia’s tough conditions, it benefits from targeted upgrades.

Superior Engineering specialises in strengthening new 4x4s without changing what makes them great. Rather than pushing unnecessary modifications, their focus is on improving control, increasing durability, and preparing the Prado for accessories and real-world adventure. With solutions that help maintain correct suspension behaviour, protect vital components, and improve practicality on difficult tracks, Superior Engineering enhances the Prado 250 in all the areas that matter.

This guide brings together the essential upgrades that help Prado owners build a safe, capable, and confidence-inspiring tourer that is ready for the long haul.

Top 5 upgrades for the Prado from Superior Engineering

1. Lift Kits

Lift kits improve ground clearance, approach, breakover and departure angles, while providing room for larger tyres. Superior Engineering’s Lift Kits are engineered specifically for the Prado to maintain correct geometry and suspension behaviour under load. They give a more confident stance and reduce the risk of underbody contact on challenging tracks.

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2. Speedo Corrector

Larger tyres or altered gearing can throw off the Prado’s factory speedometer, affecting speed readings, transmission behaviour and fuel calculations. Superior Engineering’s Speedo Corrector recalibrates the signal so the dash shows true speed. It keeps the Prado predictable on highways and off-road tracks while maintaining consistent performance after modifications.

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3. Under Guards

The Prado 250’s underbody is compact and vulnerable around the sump, transmission and other critical components. Superior Engineering’s Under Guards provide strong, corrosion-resistant protection without reducing clearance. They prevent costly damage during rocky tracks, rutted fire trails and remote touring.

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4. Coil brace kit

A Superior Engineering coil brace kit is an aftermarket reinforcement designed to strengthen the coil spring mounting points on vehicles like the Toyota Prado 250, especially when lifting, adding accessories, or carrying heavy touring loads.

By stiffening the coil brace, the kit prevents chassis flex, deformation, and potential cracking under stress, distributes suspension loads more evenly, and helps maintain proper geometry, improving durability, predictability and off-road performance. It’s a bolt-on or machined aluminium/steel solution that protects key suspension points without altering the vehicle’s character, making it a high-impact, low-cost upgrade for serious touring and off-road use.

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5. Billet UCAs (Upper Control Arms)

Once lifted or fitted with larger tyres, factory upper control arms can reach their limits, affecting alignment and suspension travel. Superior Engineering’s Billet UCAs are built from high-strength materials to improve geometry, increase articulation and reduce premature wear. They maintain correct suspension behaviour under load and provide a more predictable, controlled ride on- and off-road.

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The Toyota Prado 250 brings modern refinement and capability to a nameplate that has earned decades of trust in Australia.

It is comfortable, efficient, and surprisingly capable straight out of the box. But real-world touring loads, accessories, and off-road use reveal the areas where targeted improvements can make the biggest difference. Superior Engineering offers purpose-built upgrades that strengthen the Prado without changing its character. Their engineering-first approach ensures that owners get better handling, improved durability, and more confident off-road performance.

The goal is not to overbuild the vehicle. It is to get the most from the Prado 250 in the conditions Australians actually face. Whether you are planning coastal touring, outback travel, weekend adventures, or daily driving with family and gear, the right combination of suspension, protection, and practical accessories ensures the Prado remains safe, predictable, and enjoyable to use.

With the expertise of Superior Engineering and the guidance of 4×4 Australia, Prado 250 owners can build a touring wagon that feels ready for any journey across the country.

MORE Guide to Superior Engineering

Update 1: Project X

By Matt Raudonikis

Following an extensive pre-launch media campaign, the Kia Tasman became the most talked-about new midsize 4×4 ute to hit the Australian market in 2025 – and not all of that talk was positive.

Even before it went on sale, it was clear that plenty of folk weren’t fans of the Tasman’s styling, particularly the look of its front end. The Tasman isn’t the first – and certainly won’t be the last – new vehicle to cop such criticism, but put the looks aside and take it for a drive, and your opinion might quickly change.

With all the interest surrounding the Tasman – and after completing a couple of road tests since its launch – we decided to add one to the fleet for three months to get a true feel for what the Kia ute is like to live with.

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We chose the top-of-the-range Tasman X-Pro for this loan – not just for its extensive list of comfort and convenience features, but because it’s the model aimed squarely at off-road users, with a selectable rear diff lock, all-terrain tyres, extra off-road drive modes and no side steps.

Our first outing in the Tasman was as part of our extensive midsize 4×4 ute comparison – which you’ll be able to read all about soon.

At $75K, the X-Pro comes loaded with features – many of which we’ve already come to appreciate. These include a wide, roomy cabin fitted with supportive heated and cooled power-adjustable front seats; rear seats that slide and tilt forward; a pair of large, easy-to-read multimedia screens; dual wireless phone chargers; an integrated trailer brake controller with trailer setup checks; 17-inch alloys with all-terrain rubber; X-Trek crawl control; a selectable diff lock; and a large cargo bed.

The drivetrain is relatively smooth and quiet for a diesel ute. It’s powered by a 2.2-litre single-turbo diesel engine producing a claimed 155kW and 441Nm, backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range, part-time transfer case that also offers a 4×4 Auto mode for all-road, all-wheel-drive use.

This combo is a pleasure to drive both on- and off-road, however we do feel it’s a little underdone when you put your foot down for overtaking at highway speeds or when towing heavy loads.

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Update 2: Through the lens

By Ellen Dewar

A week in the field gives 4X4 Australia’s resident photographer a close-up look at our Kia Tasman X-Pro.

In my Inner West street there’s no shortage personalities and vehicles. The rotating test-car fleet usually sparks lively debate, but nothing has divided opinions quite like the Kia Tasman. Its styling has prompted plenty of spirited comments, not all flattering. Then again, neither was ’90s baggy fashion, and that’s well and truly back – along with a resurgence of the music.

Like any new model, the Tasman takes a little getting used to. At 5ft 2, climbing in and out of vehicles can feel like a minor workout, and the Kia sits even taller than my FJ Cruiser. I briefly considered fitting a small step but quickly dismissed it as overcomplicating things. For now, getting aboard is treated as part of my fitness routine – made easier by the well-placed grab handles.

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Inside, the cabin feels refined. The layout is modern and easy to settle into once the start button is located – tucked cheekily behind the steering wheel, it isn’t immediately intuitive. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long drives comfortable, while visibility is excellent, though shorter drivers will need to adjust the seat carefully.

Cabin noise is minimal, and the infotainment system is straightforward, though, like all new tech, it can distract until you’re familiar with its features. Apple CarPlay proved a little frustrating when trying to switch to local radio – multiple button presses were required, and even after several attempts, I still couldn’t recall the exact sequence.

Over 10 days with the Tasman as my workhorse, the first task was shed-cleaning at my parents’ property, followed by a long week at Wheels Car of the Year (COTY). The tub lining is excellent for stress-free loading, with ample tie-down points to secure gear. Hitching a trailer was straightforward: the rear camera provided a clear view for alignment, and the standard 7-pin flat configuration made connections easy. Lights, indicators and brakes all performed as expected, though the trailer-signal icon repeatedly flashed on the dash despite correct connections. Likely caused by the trailer’s LED rear lights and older wiring, it was more of an annoyance than a functional problem.

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One noticeable limitation was the Tasman’s small side mirrors. Combined with its width, standard box trailers are invisible, even on bends, only reappearing at T-intersections. Larger mirrors would improve confidence when towing. Still, towing itself was good, even over bigger bumps on country roads. The ride feels firm, but the Tasman handled a load with ease.

Without a tonneau cover or canopy, the Tasman highlights just how exposed utes can be when carrying expensive gear. Fortunately, the rear cabin is generous, allowing camera equipment to be neatly stacked on the floor and seats while remaining easily accessible.

At COTY, Victoria threw everything at it – sun, rain, and gale-force winds and the Tasman handled it all. It drove confidently across wet, twisty Gippsland roads, pulling into muddy or gravel areas without hesitation, a godsend for this job. With tougher all-terrain tyres, it would be even more capable. Its height was also useful, doubling as a stable platform for wide multi-car setups and tracking shots at Lang Lang’s speed bowl.

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Over my days of testing, the Tasman impressed with its comfort and practicality. It’s easy to drive and genuinely useful for work. While its styling divides opinion, it certainly gets people talking. City parking can be a challenge due to its size, but as a workhorse it’s outstanding. Fitted with a canopy, it would be even better for both work and weekend adventures.

MORE Tasman news and reviews!