Innehållsförteckning för June 2025 - Ute Buyers Guide från NZ4WD

Dave McLeod (Company Vehicle Editor) For some inexplicable reason, over the years, I have spent a fair amount of time stressing frames and raising wheels in the Isuzu D-MAX. From their tight and muddy track displays at the Fieldays to cliff top reserves and treks in our vast countryside, I have low-ranged and 4WDriven these durable utes to the fullest. And I have to say, I’ve been impressed. So, I was expecting a lot from this latest version and was rewarded for it. But first, here’s some history. The Isuzu D-MAX has been around the traps for a couple of decades now and despite their strong truck lineage, these utes have spent the majority of their lives being co-created, initially with the Colorado (remember them?) and more recently, the Mazda…

Owning a ute offers unmatched versatility, whether for work, adventure, or daily life. With the right accessories, you can transform your stock ute into a highly functional, secure, and comfortable vehicle tailored to your unique requirements. This guide explores the best ways to accessorise and utilise your ute, blending essential upgrades, practical advice, and key considerations for maximising its potential. Choose the right base – tub or tray Your ute’s foundation determines how you can customise it. Flat deck trays are ideal for tradies requiring flexible storage and easier access from all sides. Aluminium trays are lightweight and rust-resistant, while steel trays offer more strength for heavy equipment but add weight. A factory tub with a wellside design provides built-in security and weather protection, which can be enhanced further with…

There is a bewildering array of tyre options for your 4WD ute, most arrive new with H/T or A/T style tyres here we spill the tea on the different styles. Highway Terrain (HT) Tyres Most new 4WDs arrive on H/T tyres. They provide a smooth and quiet ride on paved roads and highways. Highway terrain tyres typically have a shallower tread pattern and closer spacing between the treads, which reduces rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. The tread design improves handling and stability on paved roads. Highway terrain tyres are ideal for vehicles used primarily for commuting, long-distance driving, and other on-road activities. All-Terrain (AT) Tyres These tyres feature a more aggressive tread design than H/T tyres. They provide good traction off-road. Modern A/T designs are quiet on-road too. They…

With arguably more than enough utes to suit most businesses requirements already available on the New Zealand market, do we need more? Well the knowledgeable carmakers think so. Here is a list of utes either already confirmed or ‘on their way’ to the land of the long white cloud. Ford Ranger Super Duty Ford has set a new benchmark in the heavy-duty pickup realm with the release of the Ford Ranger Super Duty. This is not your run-of-the-mill work truck, it’s a purpose-built powerhouse tailored to meet the grueling demands of fleets, tradesmen, emergency services, and adventurous off-roaders. Designed to be “Ultimate Tough,” the Ranger Super Duty is a factory-ready solution loaded with rugged, functional features and driver-focused technologies that eliminate the need for costly aftermarket modifications. From any angle,…

Dave McLeod (Company Vehicle Editor) Whereas I have a history of time spent getting down and dirty with the D-Max, with my friend owning a couple, my past time with the Navara has mainly been on the road with shifting gear or heading to the racetrack – towing cars. As previously mentioned, the Nissan Navara has been around for a while, both in terms of models and (as we patiently await the new generation), this specific variant. But don’t let that put you off, there’s many a good reason why it’s remained. Particularly in this top end specification, the Nissan Navara PRO-4X Double Cab walks a fine line between rugged off-roader and plush urban cruiser. Thanks to aggressive styling, well-thought-out interior appointments, and solid off-road credentials, it remains a highly…

Redarc has raised the bar in trailer safety and towing performance with the release of its latest innovation, the Tow-Pro Link Electric Brake Controller. Engineered for simplicity, safety, and reliability, the Tow-Pro Link delivers an effortless installation experience, class-leading sway control, and smooth, precise trailer braking – all packed into a compact, rugged housing. Proudly made in Australia, the Tow-Pro Link reflects Redarc’s commitment to quality and locally engineered innovation. Designed to mount discreetly near the tow bar, the Tow-Pro Link offers a new standard of convenience with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB-powered remote, and Redarc’s newly developed SwayStop Plus technology. “We’ve combined decades of engineering excellence into a product that enhances towing safety while dramatically simplifying installation,” said Jaidan Watson, Tow-Pro Product Manager. “The Tow-Pro Link empowers drivers to tow…

Yakima, the pioneering manufacturer of category leading cargo and gear management solutions, is heading to Fieldays to unveil its new 2025 product lineup in New Zealand. Designed to enhance outdoor experiences and simplify life on the road, these innovations reflect Yakima’s 45-year commitment to quality, versatility and smart design. Whether you’re packing for a weekend escape or gearing up for serious off-road travel, this new range will help you take it easy more than ever before. At the centre of the launch is the MOD Storage System. It’s a modular gear drawer platform that maximises interior storage without the need for drilling or permanent modification. With multiple sizes and over 20 mix-and-match accessory configurations, MOD adapts to your setup and keeps gear secure, accessible and ready for any trip. Also…

It would appear that the New Zealand ute market is about to be besieged with new models, new nameplates and even new drivetrains. In recent months, Ford has unveiled their PHEV model, Toyota has added a hybrid to its Hilux range and BYD has set the market alight with its posh PHEV, the Shark. Meanwhile, RAM has dropped some cc’s and its infamous Hemi, while GWM have unveiled a 4L V8 that’s destined for one of their off-roaders or utes – and let’s not overlook newcomer JAC that are soon to bring their beefier ute to NZ. And it seems that this is just the tip of the iceberg. Having recently attended the Shanghai Auto Show, there are a raft of (as yet) unknown to us brands that are lining…

Picking a winner between these two industry stalwarts was always going to be tough. The Nissan Navara has a history that dates back to the mid-80s and with a new model on the horizon, the current offering is somewhat dated. On the other hand, although the D-Max only dates back to the early 2000s, it comes with a strong trucking bloodline and has been refreshed to include more improved tech and sharper new looks. For us, it all came down to the ride. Both were more than capable both on and off the tarmac, however, with its independent rear suspension and more refined NVH, the Nissan Navara won by a nose, and with its current pricing structure, you can get their top of the line offering at below the mid-range…

BAPCOR NZ, a trusted name in 4WD suspension solutions, has announced the launch of two new suspension lift kit options, RIDE and JACKED, developed specifically for the booming market for urban use 4WD Utes such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Isuzu D-Max. Daily drivers with an edge Once the domain of rugged adventurers, 4WD utes are now becoming the modern replacement for the classic family sedan, serving as daily drivers for families, tradies, and urban commuters alike. These new lift kits answer the needs of these drivers who want enhanced aesthetics, better road presence, and occasional off-road capability, without compromising on ride quality or comfort. “We’ve recognised that today’s 4WD owners want more than just off-road toughness, they want daily drivability, stylish looks, and a hassle-free upgrade experience,…