The rise of new 4x4s kitted out by the manufacturer – or by a factory-approved partner – for improved off-road performance is a welcome addition to both showrooms and outback tracks.

The king of these is the Ford Ranger Raptor, which took the humble midsize ute and – with help from Ford Performance – transformed it into an off-road weapon. This followed the success of the F-150 Raptor in the USA, and the Blue Oval has since applied the same winning recipe to the new Bronco with a Raptor variant.

Another great example is the Nissan Patrol Warrior, developed by Melbourne engineering firm Premcar with excellent results from its extensive makeover. That said, many of these factory-modified 4x4s amount to little more than upgraded tyres and suspension with a few visual add-ons.

There are no visual tack-ons with the Lexus LX600 Overtrail, and it’s great to see this formula applied to a luxury SUV to genuinely improve its off-road capability. Off-track suitable 18-inch all-terrain tyres, increased ground clearance and front and rear locking diffs headline the extra hardware, giving the Lexus the confidence to tackle rugged country without losing the luxury appointments and features the brand is known for.

The LX Overtrail follows on from the GX Overtrail released earlier this year, and we’re big fans of both. In the past, Lexus 4x4s haven’t always been as confident off sealed roads.

It was a similar story for the RAM 1500s sold here in Australia, where big wheels and low-profile tyres hampered their off-road ability. But the new RAM Rebel changes all that, with Bilstein suspension and 18-inch all-terrains making it capable straight out of the showroom. And that Hurricane engine – it’s so sweet!

While most readers will be modifying their 4x4s to make them more capable and dependable, these factory-improved models give owners who prefer to stick with a stock vehicle the chance to enjoy some of Australia’s great tracks and destinations – from remote adventures in Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory to easy touring on South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, there are trips and destinations no matter your experience or the capability of your 4×4.

There’s really no excuse not to get out and explore the country, discovering the places your 4×4 can take you that simply wouldn’t be possible – or safe – in a two-wheel drive car. With temperatures warming up as we head towards summer and the holiday period, now’s the time to start planning your off-road escapes.

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