Mercedes-AMG has taken the G-Class a step further by revealing the G63 Offroad PRO, a serious off-roader with a mind-boggling price tag – $383,900 MRLP (excluding on-road costs and dealer delivery).

Built for serious off-road work without losing comfort, the Offroad PRO builds on the standard G63 but adds tougher suspension, dedicated off-road drive modes, and practical gear designed for challenging terrain.

At the heart of the Offroad PRO is the AMG Active Ride Control suspension with hydraulic roll stabilisers. The system has been beefed up with larger pistons, bigger pressure reservoirs, and damping tuned for off-road conditions, giving better axle articulation and stability over rocks, ruts and sand tracks. 

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Two new drive programs are set to make a real difference in tricky terrain:

• AMG Traction PRO: Manages braking at each wheel with seven stages to maximise grip in mud, sand, or loose gravel.
• AMG Active Balance Control: Lets you adjust roll stiffness in three settings (low, mid, high) to match terrain from rocky trails to fast sand tracks.

The Offroad PRO rides on 20-inch matte black AMG five-twin-spoke wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres, and adds mud flaps, full rubber mats for cabin and load area, and a roof rack with aluminium plates accessible via a rear ladder.

Inside, luxury remains fully intact. Drivers get an AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather, MBUX multimedia system with AR navigation, Burmester 3D audio, wireless charging, and temperature-controlled cupholders. A full suite of advanced driver assistance systems is also included.

The Mercedes-AMG G63 Offroad PRO is available to order from today, October 22.

Isuzu Ute Australia has reintroduced the MU-X Tour Mate special edition for the 25.5 model year, with the seven-seat SUV available from $79,990 drive away.

Targeting buyers who tow or tour off-road, the Tour Mate is based on the top-spec MU-X LS-T 4×4 and powered by Isuzu’s proven 3.0‑litre turbo-diesel engine producing 140kW and 450Nm, paired with a dual-range 4×4 drivetrain.

The special edition comes with a package of commonly chosen optional genuine towing and touring accessories, which are worth almost $9,000 when fitted separately. This includes a satin black steel bull bar with integrated parking sensors and fog lights, tow bar kit with 50mm ball, 12‑pin wiring harness, electric brake controller, front and rear slimline weather shields, rear cargo liner, rubber floor mats, and a wireless charger.

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“With the MU-X Tour Mate having been tremendously well-received last year, we are delighted to be able to return to market with an updated version of our most capable touring and towing model yet,” said Isuzu UTE Australia Managing Director, Mr Junta Matsui.

“The MU-X Tour Mate represents exceptional value as a reliable, rugged and refined vehicle for customers ready to experience the best of the Australian lifestyle, allowing them to go their own way the moment they leave the dealership.”

Other standard features include leather-accented upholstery, 20‑inch alloy wheels, idle stop-start, variably heated front seats, and a nine‑inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Colour options for the Tour Mate include Mercury Silver, Moonstone White Pearl, Mineral White, Obsidian Grey, Magnetic Red, Cobalt Blue and Basalt Black. The new MU-X Tour Mate is available to order now.

Kia has unveiled a military-spec version of its Tasman ute at the Seoul Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX 2025) in South Korea. 

The reveal marks the first public showing of the finished military model, giving a strong indication of how the production Tasman can be adapted for specialised roles.

Reports indicate the vehicle has officially been selected as the new command vehicle for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, with the Tasman expected to begin deployment later this year. Built by Kia’s Special Vehicle division, it takes the bones of the production Tasman and reworks it for defence use, combining heavy-duty off-road hardware with tactical systems and communications tech.

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The military model appears to borrow heavily from the high-spec X-Pro grade of the road-going Tasman, demonstrating that the civilian version already shares mechanical toughness and off-road tech capable of meeting demanding conditions.

The Tasman X‑Pro is the top-tier model in Kia Australia’s dual-cab ute range. Like the rest of the line-up, it is powered by a 2.2‑litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine producing 154kW and 440Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full 4×4 capability.

Compared with the lower X-Line model, the X‑Pro adds 17-inch black alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres, an electronic rear locking differential with on/off control, X-Trek Mode, and selectable Terrain Modes for snow, sand, mud and rock.

Off-road monitoring is enhanced by a Ground View Monitor and an Off-Road Page showing steering angle, direction and fluid levels. The X‑Pro also includes fuel tank undercover protection. Interior upgrades include ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, an eight-way powered passenger seat with integrated memory, a heated steering wheel, full ambient lighting, sunroof and a premium Harmon Kardon sound system. 

These features make the X‑Pro the most fully equipped Tasman in the Australian line-up.

Toyota has revealed the new LandCruiser FJ, a more compact addition to its 4×4 line-up.

Designed for off-road agility, the FJ brings a simpler, lighter approach compared with the Prado and 300 Series. The FJ is built on the same IMV platform as the HiLux and Fortuner, pairing proven underpinnings with a shorter, more manoeuvrable footprint. It is designed for drivers seeking genuine off-road capability in a compact package, while carrying forward the LandCruiser’s renowned durability.

Here’s how the three models compare based on the FJ prototype specifications revealed by Toyota 👇

Dimensions

The LandCruiser FJ is the most compact of the trio, making it potentially more nimble on tight tracks and narrow trails. The Prado adds length and width, while the 300 Series tops the range in width, giving it a commanding road presence and a more spacious cabin for long-distance touring or family use.

Powertrain

Performance and capability increase progressively across the line-up. The FJ’s 2.7L petrol engine is modest but suits light-duty off-road driving, while the Prado’s 2.8L turbo-diesel delivers both strong torque and good fuel efficiency. The 300 Series, with its 3.3L twin-turbo V6, dominates in power and torque, making it the heavy-duty option for towing, loaded touring, and extreme off-road conditions.

Transmission and 4×4 systems follow a similar pattern: the FJ keeps it simple with part-time 4WD, the Prado adds full-time dual-range with lockable diffs, and the 300 Series uses the same advanced 4×4 system as the Prado but with a 10-speed automatic for smoother shifts under load.

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At first glance, the new LandCruiser FJ appears perfect for off-road enthusiasts who prioritise manoeuvrability over size and luxury. The Prado remains a versatile middle-ground option, offering a balance of comfort, capability and efficiency. The 300 Series continues to set the benchmark for full-size SUVs, combining size, power and advanced drivetrain technology for those who need maximum towing, payload and off-road capability.

Unfortunately, there are currently no plans to bring the FJ to Australia.

Toyota has revealed the new LandCruiser FJ, a compact off-roader that will sit alongside the 300 Series, 70 Series and 250 Prado. 

The mini LandCruiser will make its public debut at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo from October 30 to November 9, before going on sale in Japan in the middle of 2026. There are currently no plans to bring the FJ to Australia.

The FJ rides on the same IMV platform used by the HiLux and Fortuner, combining proven underpinnings with a shorter, more manoeuvrable footprint aimed at those who want genuine off-road ability in a smaller package. Toyota says the new model has been engineered to carry forward the LandCruiser’s trademark durability and off-road capability while offering a more accessible and customisable entry point.

The design sticks close to LandCruiser tradition, with a boxy cabin and simple proportions that prioritise interior space and practicality. A rectangular body with chamfered edges – in tandem with squared-off bumpers and flared guards – gives it a tough, purposeful stance. Both front and rear bumpers are removable and segmented so that only damaged sections need replacing, a smart touch that will appeal to anyone who actually uses their rig off-road. Round headlights, reminiscent of older FJ models, are also available for buyers chasing a more classic look.

Inside, Toyota says the horizontal dash makes it easier to gauge the vehicle’s angle on uneven terrain, and key controls are grouped close to the driver to reduce distraction. Forward visibility is enhanced by a low-set cowl and beltline, making it easier to place the vehicle on tight tracks or rock steps. Toyota Safety Sense, including the latest Pre-Collision Safety System, will come standard.

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Under the skin, the FJ’s chassis has been reinforced with extra underfloor bracing and a higher level of body rigidity. Toyota says it offers wheel articulation on par with the 70 Series (not something to brag about, mind you), while its wheelbase is 270mm shorter than the Prado 250’s – cutting the turning circle down to 5.5 metres. Ground clearance and approach angles are said to be close to those of the 70 Series, meaning it should perform well on technical terrain.

Toyota is also planning to release a range of factory accessories throughout the model’s life, including MOLLE panels for attaching gear, off-road protection, and various styling and storage upgrades.

The Land Hopper

Alongside the FJ, Toyota is developing the Land Hopper, a small electric personal mobility vehicle that can fit in a 4×4’s cargo area. Designed for exploring trails and campsites beyond where a vehicle can go, it’s part of Toyota’s broader plan to extend the LandCruiser brand’s “go anywhere” philosophy beyond the car itself. If nothing else, it looks pretty cool.

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Electric utes are starting to arrive in Australia, but choices remain limited. Interest is growing as buyers look for 4×4 EV alternatives, though range, towing capacity and off-road ability remain key concerns.

A handful of models are confirmed or expected for the Australian market, offering competitive towing, payload and off-road performance tailored to local conditions. This guide covers electric utes currently available in Australia and those set to arrive soon, giving buyers a clear picture of what’s on offer and what’s coming 👇

• Ford F-150 Lightning
• LDV eTerron 9
• Chevrolet Silverado EV
• GMC Hummer EV
• Rivian R1T
• Tesla Cybertruck
• Tembo Tusker
• Riddara RD6
• Isuzu D-MAX EV
• JAC T9 EV
• KGM Musso EV

Ford F-150 Lightning

The Ford F-150 Lightning is now available in Australia as a fully electric alternative to traditional 4×4 utes. Converted to right-hand drive by Advanced Manufacturing Queensland (AMQ) and sold through specialist importer AusEV, it blends rugged utility with zero-emission performance.

Equipped with a 131kWh battery, the Lightning delivers up to 515km of range and offers a 4.5-tonne towing capacity, alongside a 1-tonne payload. It is also the only vehicle-to-grid/home-approved EV in Australia, allowing owners to power their homes during outages.

Pricing starts around AUD $125,000 for the Lariat 4WD model, with higher-end Platinum trims available at a premium. While not officially sold through Ford Australia dealerships, the Lightning’s availability through specialist importers provides a unique, high-performance electric ute option for Australian buyers seeking both work and lifestyle capability.

LDV eTerron9

The LDV eTerron 9 is set to arrive in Australia later in 2025 as a fully electric ute, offering both rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive variants. The dual-motor AWD produces a combined 325kW, while the single rear-motor RWD delivers 200kW.

A 102kWh battery is expected to provide over 400km of range, and like the diesel version, the eTerron 9 will support up to 3.5-tonne towing. All variants share the same dimensions: 5500mm long, 1997mm wide, 1860mm high, with a 3300mm wheelbase and 1685mm front and rear track, and an electric-specific running clearance of 230mm. Pricing has not yet been confirmed.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

The Chevrolet Silverado EV is an all-electric full-size ute built on GM’s Ultium platform, offering dual-motor AWD with up to 495kW and 1065Nm of torque.

It could deliver a driving range of up to 644km and is expected to support heavy-duty towing, making it suitable for both work and lifestyle use. Several variants are likely, including an entry-level Work Truck aimed at tradies and fleets, the RST First Edition for retail buyers seeking comfort and features, and a mid-spec Trail Boss potentially arriving later.

Features such as 350kW DC fast charging, adaptive air suspension, four-wheel steering, a configurable tailgate, and a front boot similar to Tesla and the F-150 Lightning could make it a versatile choice for Australian conditions. Although not officially sold locally, right-hand drive conversions through specialist importers might allow early access for buyers.

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GMC Hummer EV

The 2025 GMC Hummer EV is available in Australia through Autogroup International, offered as a full OEM-grade right-hand drive conversion engineered to meet Australian Design Rules (ADR).

This is a complete remanufacture using OEM components, advanced CAD modelling, and ISO 9001:2015-certified processes, ensuring each vehicle performs as intended by GM.

The Hummer EV SUV comes in two main variants. The 2X features a dual-motor e4WD system producing 570hp, an estimated 480km range, adaptive air suspension, and 22-inch wheels with all-terrain tyres. The 3X adds a tri-motor e4WD setup with 830hp, 0–100km/h in around 3.5 seconds, an estimated 500km range, CrabWalk™ diagonal drive mode, and heavy-duty off-road upgrades including e-lockers and skid plates.

Other standout features include Extract Mode for raising the suspension, selectable drive modes, adaptive dampers, and a premium interior with a 13.4-inch infotainment system. Specialist importers make right-hand drive Hummer EVs available immediately, fully compliant and ready for Australian registration, offering extreme off-road capability and performance for 4×4 enthusiasts.

Rivian R1T

The R1T is an all-electric mid-size ute available in quad-motor all-wheel-drive and dual-motor configurations.

The quad-motor setup offers torque vectoring for improved traction, while the dual-motor variant balances efficiency and performance. Adjustable air suspension can raise the vehicle to 381mm (15in) of ground clearance, and Rivian claims 0–60mph (0–97km/h) in around three seconds. Battery options include 105kWh, 135kWh, and 149kWh packs, delivering estimated ranges of 372km (231 miles), 505km (314 miles), and 645km (401 miles), with both AC and DC fast-charging supported.

The cabin features a 12.3-inch digital cluster, 15.6-inch touchscreen, drive modes for towing, off-road, and sport, and utility options like the “Gear Tunnel” and rooftop accessories.

In Australia, the R1T is currently limited to mining operations, imported and retrofitted by WA-based MEVCO for surface and underground use. An R1T test mule was spotted on Melbourne roads in October 2025.

Tesla Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck has made its Australian debut, generating interest among EV enthusiasts even though it is not yet available for sale. Its presence in the country signals Tesla’s intent to expand electric vehicle offerings into right-hand drive markets.

Tesla has showcased the Cybertruck at events in locations including Sydney, giving Australians the chance to see its features firsthand. The vehicle is expected to arrive in multiple configurations, including single, dual, and tri-motor variants, with robust towing and payload capacity suitable for both work and lifestyle use.

While official timelines for the Australian release have not been confirmed, right-hand drive versions are anticipated, potentially opening the door for local buyers to access Tesla’s unique electric pickup. Until then, interested Australians can follow Tesla’s promotional events and online channels for updates, including details on pricing, specifications, and expected availability.

Tembo Tusker

Tembo, a global specialist in 4×4 EV conversions, launched the Tembo Tusker in Australia in 2024, a fully electric ute.

The Tusker is expected to be offered in single-cab (Tusker-S) and dual-cab (Tusker-D) body styles, with 65kWh and 77kWh battery options delivering ranges of around 330km to 400km on a single charge.

The vehicles are designed for practical work use, with a 1000kg payload and an unbraked towing capacity of 750kg. Tembo has a long history in electrifying vehicles for Australian conditions, having trialled its e-LV conversion kits locally since 2018. These kits were primarily aimed at mining fleets, particularly converting second-hand Toyota LandCruisers and HiLux utes into fully electric vehicles.

Riddara RD6

The Riddara RD6, an all-electric dual-cab ute from Geely’s Radar brand, is poised to enter the Australian market. Initially launched in China, the RD6 is set to debut in Thailand, with right-hand-drive production confirmed, indicating an imminent Australian release.

The RD6 features a sleek design with independent suspension and dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 315kW. It offers a range of up to 600km (CLTC) on a single charge, depending on the battery configuration. The cabin boasts a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, providing a modern and comfortable driving experience.

While specific Australian pricing and availability details are yet to be confirmed, the RD6 is expected to offer a compelling electric alternative in the ute segment.

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Isuzu D-MAX EV

The Isuzu D-MAX EV has begun mass production overseas, and right-hand-drive models could be ready later in 2025, potentially paving the way for an Australian release in 2026.

While Isuzu Ute Australia has not confirmed local availability, the vehicle represents a possible electrified option for the popular midsize 4×4 segment. The D-MAX EV features a full-time 4WD system with front and rear e-Axles, producing 140kW and 320Nm for smooth, quiet acceleration. Payload and towing capacities of 1010kg and 3500kg suggest it could meet the practical demands of Australian buyers.

Isuzu has signalled it is exploring multiple powertrain solutions to comply with local regulations and ensure vehicles are fit for purpose, indicating that an EV variant may eventually arrive in Australia. If it does, the D-MAX EV could offer a fully electric alternative for tradies, fleet buyers, and off-road enthusiasts alike.

JAC T9 EV

The JAC T9 EV is a fully electric dual-cab 4×4 ute that’s expected to enter the Australian market, though local timing remains unconfirmed.

It’s powered by an 88kWh LFP battery and a dual-motor e-4WD system producing around 220kW and 516Nm, offering an estimated range of roughly 330km (WLTP). Designed with practicality in mind, the T9 EV maintains a payload capacity of 900kg and a tub large enough to accommodate a standard Australian pallet. It also includes vehicle-to-load functionality, allowing owners to power tools, equipment or campsite appliances directly from the battery.

Before any wider rollout, JAC has begun mining-industry trials in Australia to assess the vehicle’s performance and battery durability in harsh conditions. While no launch date or pricing has been announced, the T9 EV stands as one of the more realistic near-term prospects for an electric 4×4 ute in Australia.

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KGM Musso EV

The KGM Musso EV is slated for arrival in Australia in early 2026, offering a fully electric dual-cab ute built on a unibody platform rather than the traditional ladder-frame.

It will be available in single-motor front-wheel-drive form producing around 152kW, and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version rated at roughly 304kW. Both variants will use an 80.6kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, with claimed WLTP ranges of approximately 419km (single-motor) and 379km (dual-motor). Braked towing is rated at 1800kg in both cases, while payload figures range from about 905kg (FWD) to 805kg (AWD).

Pricing is expected to start around the low-$80,000 mark, but Australian availability, pricing and full specs remain unconfirmed.

A Rivian R1T was recently observed in Melbourne, with an image posted to the CarsAustralia Reddit page. 

The vehicle was fitted with Victorian registration and displayed a “Left Hand Drive Engineering Evaluation Vehicle” sticker across its tailgate, indicating it is part of Rivian’s local testing program.

The R1T is an all-electric, mid-size pickup developed for both on-road and off-road use. It is available in quad-motor all-wheel-drive and dual-motor configurations. The quad-motor version provides independent power to each wheel, offering torque vectoring for improved traction and control on uneven terrain. 

Rivian claims the vehicle can accelerate from 0–60mph (0–97km/h) in around three seconds. The dual-motor variant is optimised for efficiency while still maintaining strong performance. The R1T features an adjustable air suspension, which can raise the vehicle to 381mm (15 inches) of ground clearance for challenging terrain.

Battery options include 105kWh, 135kWh and 149kWh packs, delivering EPA-estimated ranges of approximately 372km (231 miles), 505km (314 miles), and 645km (401 miles), respectively. Charging can be accomplished via standard AC or DC fast chargers, the latter allowing rapid top-ups during longer journeys.

The cabin is minimalist but functional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch central touchscreen. Drive modes allow the driver to adjust suspension, throttle and steering characteristics for conditions such as towing, off-road driving, sport or energy conservation. Utility features include the “Gear Tunnel” for extra storage, reinforced underbody protection, and optional accessories such as a collapsible camp kitchen or rooftop tent. Safety systems include lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, with hands-free driving expected in future software updates.

In Australia, the R1T is currently limited to mining operations. Western Australia-based MEVCO imports the vehicles and retrofits them for mining fleets, including modifications for both surface and underground use. 

As these vehicles are left-hand drive, they are not yet available for general public sale, but their appearance on local roads indicates Rivian is evaluating the market and infrastructure for a potential wider launch.

Australia’s full-size 4×4 ute market continues to impress, with models like the Ram 1500 Rebel, Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, Ford F-150 Lariat, and Toyota Tundra Limited offering strong towing capability, high payloads, and serious off-road potential.

Each ute delivers its own combination of power, geometry, and features, making the choice highly dependent on the type of driving and terrain you expect to tackle. Let’s take a deep dive into the spec sheets 👇

Price and powertrain

The Ram 1500 Rebel and Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 both provide 313kW, with the Rebel using a bi-turbo inline-six engine and the Silverado a 6.2L V8 petrol engine. The Ford F-150 Lariat has slightly lower power at 298kW but offers 678Nm. The Toyota Tundra Limited delivers the highest torque at 790Nm thanks to its turbo V6 hybrid system, also producing the highest total power at 326kW.

Drivetrain, suspension and chassis

Suspension and chassis design shows the intended use of each vehicle. The Silverado ZR2 uses fully independent double wishbone suspension with DSSV dampers both front and rear. The Ram 1500 Rebel offers a multi-link live rear axle for a balance of comfort and off-road capability. The Ford F-150 Lariat has a live rear axle with leaf springs for versatility in towing and moderate off-road use. The Toyota Tundra Limited combines a part-time dual-range 4WD system with a four-link rear axle, optimising towing and efficiency rather than extreme off-road geometry.

Towing, payload and dimensions

Payload and towing figures highlight the practical capabilities. The F-150 Lariat has the largest fuel tank at 136L, supporting longer trips. The Ram 1500 Rebel and Toyota Tundra Limited offer similar towing capacities of 4500kg braked. The Silverado ZR2 carries slightly less payload and lower towing capacity but remains suitable for general 4×4 use.

Fuel economy

Fuel efficiency varies across the group. The Ram 1500 Rebel achieves the lowest combined consumption at 10.74L/100km. The Silverado ZR2 consumes slightly more at 11.7L/100km. The F-150 Lariat reports 12.5L/100km combined. The Tundra Limited does not have an ADR figure but maintains efficient hybrid performance relative to its torque and size.

Off-road geometry

The Silverado ZR2 has the highest ground clearance at 296mm. The Ram 1500 Rebel has 242mm clearance with approach and departure angles of 20.9 and 22.2. The F-150 Lariat has a 26.3 departure angle and 239mm clearance. The Tundra Limited has 216mm ground clearance with 23 approach and 21 departure angles.

Following hot on the heels of last month’s Isuzu D-MAX 2.2 launch, Mazda Australia has rolled out its version of what is essentially the same midsize 4×4 ute.

For those new to the party, the current Mazda BT-50 is essentially a facelifted and rebadged Isuzu D-MAX — and if you’re going to partner with any ute manufacturer, Isuzu has proven to be a solid choice for Mazda.

So, when Isuzu ditched its entry-level 1.9-litre diesel engine in favour of a new, more powerful 2.2, you didn’t need to be Nostradamus to predict Mazda would soon follow suit.

JUMP AHEAD

• Expanded line-up
• Driving impressions
• Interior, equipment and comfort
• Verdict
• Specs

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Expanded line-up

For Mazda, the 2.2 engine will be offered in four of the 18 variants in the BT-50 line-up, starting with the single-cab XT and double-cab XS 4×2 models, and extending to the 4×4 double-cab XS with a choice of cab-chassis or ute tub configurations.

The remaining variants in the range are still powered by the legendary 4J 3.0-litre Isuzu engine, which now adds a stop/start idle feature to its repertoire.

The new 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine produces 120kW at 3600rpm and 400Nm from 1600-2600rpm, with fuel use as low as 6.3L/100km. That improved efficiency is aided by the fitment of a new eight-speed automatic transmission in place of the six-speed still shackled to the 3.0-litre engine.

BT-50 4×4 models powered by the 2.2 engine offer the same 3500kg towing capacity and 1000kg-plus payload as their 3.0-litre stablemates, so there’s no compromise there.

The old 1.9 engine could only muster 110kW and 350Nm, and our only experience with it was in a loaded vehicle where it really struggled with the weight on hills – making the 2.2 a worthwhile step up. Mazda also used this model update to drop the manual gearbox from the BT-50 range altogether.

The addition of idle stop/start on the 3.0-litre BT-50 is said to help cut fuel consumption from 7.7-8.0L/100km (depending on model grade) to 7.1-8.0L/100km for the same vehicles. The 3.0-litre/six-speed auto BT-50 combination continues to produce 140kW and 450Nm.

Driving impressions

Whether you’re on a budget or chasing better fuel efficiency, the 2.2-litre-powered Mazdas aren’t a bad option.

The eight-speed auto makes the driveline feel much more refined and smoother, although the upshift calibration can still be a little aggressive at times – something that’s even more noticeable in the older 3.0-litre/six-speed ’box.

As a driver, you’ll find yourself planting your right boot harder on the go pedal than you ever recall doing in the 3.0, but doing so gets the BT along well enough. It’s no rocket ship – not that this is what this ute is about.

The 2.2 is a vocal engine when pushed hard, and the diesel clatter is quite noticeable in the cabin. However, it quietens down once you ease off and settle into a steady highway cruise. Our BT-50 was relatively unladen aside from a few factory accessories, but we reckon you’d hear a lot more of the engine with a heavy load on board. By contrast, the 3.0-litre engine seems to grunt along with the same level of noise no matter how much you load it up.

The eight-speed transmission helps the smaller-capacity engine stay within its optimal power band, depending on load and throttle input, and this goes some way toward making up for the reduced grunt.

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The 400Nm output is a little underwhelming for a new diesel engine when you consider the figures from sub-2.5-litre units from Ford, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Kia – even if some of those mills benefit from multiple turbochargers. Still, Isuzu has always taken a conservative approach to engine tuning, favouring reliability over outright performance – and that philosophy is exactly what’s given its 3.0-litre diesel such legendary status.

We didn’t get any off-road driving in with the 2.2, but like the 3.0 BT it features part-time 4×4 with high and low range, a rear differential lock, and a rough-terrain mode that’s needed to make the traction control effective.

Interior, equipment and comfort

The 2.2 BT-50 retains all the interior and safety features found elsewhere in the range, bearing in mind that this is a lower-grade model – so expect cloth seats and single-zone climate control.

The XS double-cab pick-up we drove on the day came equipped with 17-inch alloys, LED lighting, a soft-touch tailgate, single-zone air-conditioning with rear vents, vinyl floor covering, and an eight-inch multimedia screen with wired Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.

The full suite of ADAS systems carries over from the higher grades. The cabin and tub are both spacious, and we particularly like the storage space under the rear seat in the double-cab. While it misses out on the leather trim and the comfort and convenience features of the higher grades in the BT-50 range, the XS isn’t missing any essentials.

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Verdict

The BT-50 isn’t at or near the top of the midsize 4×4 ute pack, but it’s far from the bottom – sitting instead among the crowded middle ranks.

Having a choice of drivelines gives it a small point of difference, but it’s still essentially the same as the D-MAX, and the Ford Ranger also offers multiple powerplant options. As always when it comes to this segment, buyers are spoiled for choice.

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Specs

You don’t have to be Einstein to know that midsize 4×4 utes are hot property in Australia right now.

Their blend of capability, versatility, performance and comfort makes them hugely appealing – so much so, they’re currently the best-selling vehicles in the country. Ute buyers are spoilt for choice, with dozens of models on the market and five times as many variants to pick from.

Choosing the right one can be heaven or hell, depending on how you look at it. Once you’ve decided on and bought your ute, the whole process starts over again – selecting and fitting the accessories and modifications to make it just right for you.

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For Melbourne’s Arden Packeer, it was a matter of selection, so he tried out as many models as he could before laying down his hard-earned cash. 

“I looked at a bunch of different options and test drove a few – including the HiLux, 79 Series, D-MAX and RAM – but kept coming back to the Ranger for its look and the comfort inside the cabin,” Arden told us. “I love the look of the big American trucks, but the Ranger hit the sweet spot of size and capability in my opinion.”

Early in ’24 he took delivery of a shiny black 2024.5 Ranger Wildtrak V6 and set to work building it to suit his needs. Arden might not be Einstein either, but he’s smart enough to know a good thing when he drives it, and he put a detailed plan in place to modify it.

“The original concept was to build a ‘tough tourer’ – something capable as well as comfortable for a planned trip around Australia, and to get me to places to take photos and travel with my kids.”

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Stage One and Two: Suspension, protection and canopy fit-out

The comprehensive build has taken place in stages, with the first happening pre-registration with help from the Ford dealer. This included an ARB BP-51 suspension kit with a GVM upgrade to 3650kg. A set of 285/70R17 Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT tyres were wrapped around ROH Crawler wheels and bolted on under EGR flares.

To protect the Ranger on off-road adventures, a comprehensive kit of Hamer accessories went on – including an Atlas Plus bullbar, Nova rear bar, Hamer side steps and underbody protection. Paint protection comes courtesy of an Xpel Stealth matte wrap, giving the Ranger its dark look.

To improve storage and carrying capacity, a Front Runner roof rack was fitted up top and a tub-topping Centurion canopy from Utemaster went on the back.

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“I wanted to build something with a tub canopy as I didn’t like the look of the large tradie-style canopies, so it was a compromise between weight and capability. I didn’t want to compromise on quality, so I went with what I thought was the best of breed.”

Stage two of the build was the extensive fit-out of the canopy, carried out after the ute was sent to BAW Automotive in Queensland. We’ve featured a few of BAW’s own builds in these pages over the years and they’ve always been first-rate, so it’s easy to see why Arden chose to have Dave, Brent and the crew there do the work.

This stage included an extensive 12-volt system with Redarc’s finest kit powering accessories and keeping the Custom Lithium 400Ah battery charged. The Redarc gear comprises a 3000W RS3 inverter, Alpha 100 BMS, 1280 TVMS with a pair of RedVision screens (one in the canopy and one inside the ute), plus 400W of solar panels mounted on top of the Streamline rooftop tent, which itself sits on a Utemaster canopy rack.

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Drawing on all that power is a kitchen’s worth of appliances, including a 60-litre Engel fridge, coffee machine, microwave oven, induction cooktop and a Jolica hot water system. The pull-out kitchen also features a custom sink, Pak Offroad 40-litre water tank and drawer system, plus enough lighting to fill a nightclub. Lighting is fitted above and below the Ranger, with Lazer ditch lights, rack lights and a light bar.

BAW did more than just the fit-out, also installing a Brown Davis 145-litre replacement fuel tank, Safari Armax snorkel, Manta 3-inch exhaust, ARB Air Locker up front to complement the factory rear locker, an ARB air compressor and a Darche 270° awning.

If, like me, you’re thinking this Ranger already has just about everything you could bolt on – stand by, because there’s a Stage Three!

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Stage Three: Sound, interior and testing

With the Ranger back in Melbourne, Arden turned his attention to the sound system and, with help from SSV Thomastown, built a killer setup.

Up front are Focal K2M Frak tweeters and Focal K2M Series 3 midrange drivers in custom-made pillar pods, with Focal K2M Series 6.5-inch woofers in the doors and a Focal Sub25 KXS (slim) in a custom box under the seat.

Driving the system is an Audison SR6600 six-channel D-Class amp, Audison BitOneHD signal processor, and Audison DRC MP with a custom cup-holder mount, plus a Focal mono amp for the sub and a Focal FDS 4.350 amp for the rear. A PAC AmpPRO integrates the setup with Ford’s Sync4 system, working seamlessly with the factory gear.

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Also inside is an Illumo Ambient Zone Kit, used throughout along with sound deadening on the roof, floor and doors. The steering wheel is a custom-made unit with Raptor-style paddle shifters for easier control of the 10-speed auto. Ahead of it sits a Raptor-style dash cluster with additional functionality and modes unlocked using Forscan.

Other interior additions include switch and Molle panels from Pirate Camp, a GME UHF radio and an EVC throttle controller. Aside from the controller and transmission shifter, the V6 diesel and 10-speed auto remain some of the only components left stock on Arden’s Ranger.

While Arden says the Ranger is complete for now, he admits he’d like to fit a set of 35-inch tyres, have it engineered to suit, and see how that affects performance. The longer outback adventures are still to come, but Arden has already been testing the Ranger’s capabilities on some of the Victorian High Country’s most iconic tracks.

“I’ve done Billy Goats, Blue Rag and Crooked River, but my favourite was the Buffalo Ranges track up to Mt Murray. Similar views to Blue Rag, but one of the longer ridgeline drives in the High Country.”