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4WD Utes

Ford Ranger
1
  • Smooth, efficient driveline with decent performance to boot; Ride, steering and interior comfort all combine for great on-road characteristics; Very good off-road at the same time

  • Still one of the most expensive utes in the segment; Gearbox feels jerky in low-range; No second-row air vents

Volkswagen Amarok
  • Easy, almost sweet-shifting gearbox is easy to manage; Good reduction gearing through the low-range transfer case; Smooth and powerful engine; Good overall value at under 50 grand

  • Locking rear diff disables off-road traction control and hill descent control; Still no second-row airbags; A little lacking in ground clearance

Toyota HiLux
  • Bold new look and bi-LED headlights; More comfortable suspension unladen; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and volume dials

  • Massive price rise; Comparatively heavy steering; Tray liner not standard on the SR5

Isuzu D-MAX
  • Excellent safety inclusions; Handles a full payload well; Flexible, torquey engine is a winner

  • More expensive than the outgoing model; Also slightly less efficient; Lane-keeping technology can be overbearing

RAM 1500
  • Utterly relaxed and competent tow rig; Comfortable to drive and ride in, especially long-hauling; The space, the space!

  • Three-year warranty is underdone, and no capped-price servicing; Not much more efficient than the petrol; $5000 price hike