If you drive in Adelaide and feel like traffic has become more painful, you’re not imagining it. 

According to the 2025 TomTom Traffic Index, Adelaide is now officially Australia’s most congested city, topping the national list ahead of Melbourne and Sydney. With a congestion level of 55.1%, journeys that would normally take 20 minutes can stretch to more than 30 minutes during peak hours, adding over 100 hours of travel time per year for the average driver.

Melbourne follows closely with a congestion level of 52.9%, while the Gold Coast records 48.6%, placing it third nationally. Congestion in these cities is most pronounced on major arterial routes and commuter corridors during morning and evening peaks, driven by growing populations and urban development. Sydney, long seen as Australia’s traffic benchmark, now ranks fourth, with a congestion level of 43.7%.

Adelaide’s congestion is moderate when compared with the global traffic leaders. The three most congested cities worldwide in 2025 were Mexico City (75.9%), Bengaluru (74.4%) and Dublin (72.9%). While Adelaide leads Australia, these international examples show that urban traffic congestion can be substantially higher in other parts of the world.

At the lower end of Australia’s spectrum, cities such as Darwin (27.5%), Wollongong (31.8%), and Canberra (33.6%) experience far lighter delays during peak periods. Smaller populations and less pressure on key road networks contribute to smoother traffic flow in these locations.

The TomTom Traffic Index calculates congestion by analysing anonymised GPS data from vehicles and devices. It compares actual travel times during peak periods with ideal “free-flow” conditions to produce a congestion percentage, allowing direct comparisons both nationally and globally. Aggregating data over a full calendar year ensures a consistent benchmark for evaluating traffic performance across cities.

Traffic congestion levels for Australian cities in 2025

• Adelaide: 55.1%
• Melbourne: 52.9%
• Gold Coast: 48.6%
• Sydney: 43.7%
• Newcastle: 41.3%
• Brisbane: 40.5%
• Hobart: 38.2%
• Perth: 35.9%
• Canberra: 33.6%
• Wollongong: 31.8%
• Darwin: 27.5%

It’s interesting to note how the manufacturers of our two best-selling 4×4 utes – Ford and Toyota – each go about the job of maintaining sales differently.

Ford has been the best-seller for a few years now and has maintained that lead with a barrage of limited editions, model updates and now the introduction of the new Super Duty. The Blue Oval won’t be able to lift its foot off the pedal in 2026, with the loss of the bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine from Ranger sure to hurt, and the P703 starting to show its age in line with newer competition. A major mid-life refresh of Ranger can’t be too far away, and possibly arriving this year.

The heavily revised new HiLux is one of those newer competitors, despite retaining much of its engineering and powertrain. HiLux’s new interior is a huge step up for the enduring model, bringing it up to modern standards, while the new exterior treatment is very much a love-it-or-hate-it affair.

The ‘new’ HiLux delivers what we would normally expect of a mid-life model refresh rather than an all-new model but, for me, that is the best thing about it. Toyota hasn’t messed with the essentials of what is a solid and winning formula. The chassis and powertrain remain best in class for a midsize, one-tonne 4×4 ute, and the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre engine should have the wood over Ford’s single-turbocharged 405Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder. It’s easy to see why Ford Australia has expanded the availability of the 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine.

Despite all the new and updated utes coming to the market in 2026, I can’t see the top sellers changing at all; it will only be a matter of which of the two stays ahead. It still promises to be an interesting race and can only bring better products to the market for buyers.

Close behind the Ranger and HiLux in the recent 4×4 Ute of the Year test was the Kia Tasman, and it recently dawned on me that the new competitor has a feature neither Ford nor Toyota offer, and it’s one I value highly. The fuel filler in the Tasman easily accepts a high-flow diesel pump nozzle, with none of the restrictions most other new diesel-fuelled vehicles have for no apparent reason.

That’s time saved at the pump for more important things. 

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.

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.

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

• 2.3 Hybrid XLT (a): $71,990
• 2.3 Hybrid Sport (a): $75,990
• 2.3 Hybrid Wildtrak (a): $79,990
• 2.3 Hybrid Stormtrak (a): $86,990

Diesel dual-cab pick-up

• 2.0 XL (a): $51,130
• 2.0 Black Edition (a): $55,990
• 2.0 XLS (a): $57,880
• 2.0 XLT (a): $63,890
• 2.0 Sport (a): $66,390
• 2.0 Tremor (a): $69,690
• 2.0 Wildtrak (a): $69,890
• 3.0 XLT V6 (a): $69,090
• 3.0 Sport V6 (a): $71,340
• 3.0 Wildtrak V6 (a): $75,090
• 2.0 Wildtrak X (a): $77,640
• 3.0 Platinum V6 (a): $80,890

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.

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.

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.

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

• Side steps
• White Diamond premium paint option (exclusive only to GLX-R Special Edition)
• Bed liner
• Removal of sports bar to allow for tonneau/canopy fitment
• Rubber floor mats
• Weathershields
• Matte black hood protector
• Tow bar and accessory kit

GSR Special Edition with Touring Accessory Pack

• Black nudge bar
• Weathershields
• Matte black hood protector
• Rubber tub mat
• Tow bar and accessory kit

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

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.