Best 4X4 Tradie Utes
Ford Ranger
The current-generation Ford Ranger arrived in Australia in 2022, as part of an all-out Ford assault on the booming ute market.
Boasting class-leading levels of equipment, the revamped Ranger consists of a vast model line-up, with a variety of 4x2 and 4x4 models in either cab-chassis or pick-up form – and in single-cab, super-cab or double-cab configurations
The base-spec XL is the cheapest entry into the Ranger range, followed by the XLS, XLT, Sport and Wildtrak.
Toyota HiLux
The Toyota HiLux has been Australia’s most popular vehicle for many years now.
Sales show now sign of fading, either, despite the latest-generation model having been around since 2015.
The comprehensive Toyota Hilux range is headed by three key models: WorkMate, SR and SR5.
Each model contains various cabin configurations in either pick-up or cab-chassis styles (and 4x4 or 4x2), and you need a sophisticated flowchart to best analyse the mountain of options available.
Isuzu D-MAX
The Isuzu D-Max was initially launched in Australia back in 2008 and has been a consistently strong-selling ute and a firm favourite with both recreational four-wheel-drivers and tradies.
An all-new model in 2020 saw increases in power and safety features, as well as a freshly re-designed interior to bring the D-Max closer in specifications and features to market-leading rivals.
Mitsubishi Triton
The Japanese-bred Mitsubishi Triton ute is available in single-cab, club-cab, and double-cab configurations, in either cab-chassis or pick-up guise.
A vast 4x4 and 4x2 model line-up consists of the entry-level GLX, GLX+, GLX-R, GLS and the top-spec GSR. Premium models are equipped with a Super Select II full-time 4x4 system, while lower-spec variants get a more rudimentary Easy Select part-time 4WD system.
Volkswagen Amarok
The European one-tonner, due here in April 2023, once again enters a fray dominated by the Japanese, yet this time it’s not doing so quite so single-handedly – co-developing Amarok MkII with the latest version of the Aussie-American Ford Ranger.
Shared platform, shared drivetrains, shared technology. And shared roof, glass area, doorhandles and side-mirror caps.
4x4 Ute Pricing
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Ford Ranger | $27,390–$87,990 |
| Toyota Hilux | $26,475–$73,990 |
| Isuzu D-MAX | $32,200–$67,500 |
| Mitsubishi Triton | $21,990–$56,940 |
| Volkswagen Amarok | $31,490–$94,485 |
4x4 Ute Reviews
2023 Ford Ranger Platinum vs 2023 Volkswagen Amarok TDI 600 Aventura comparison review
Does the addition of an upmarket Ranger variant have what it takes to depose Volkswagen's ritziest Amarok?
The top six off-road expedition vehicles
Not all 4x4s are suited to long-distance, remote-area expeditions, so the 4X4 Australia team share their six top choices
2023 Volkswagen Amarok review: Australia’s best dual-cab?
The second-gen Amarok is bigger, more luxurious and even better to drive – but is it the new king of the dual-cab segment?
New 2024 Mitsubishi Triton vs Ford Ranger: SPEC BATTLE!
What differences exist between the fresh new Mitsubishi ute and its class-leading Ford rival?
The 10 greatest 4x4s of all time
Some 4x4s have made more of an impact on the world than others, but just which ones have made the biggest difference? We ask our team of 4x4 experts
2023 Ford Ranger Platinum: Quick review
Taking a look at Ford's top of the line Ranger Platinum.
2020 Ford Ranger XLS Sport long-term review
Deano's loaded Ranger XLS is an all-terrain tourer
Entry-level 2023 Ford Ranger XL off-road review
A quick outback spin in the Ford Ranger XL gives us a feel for the entry-level ute
2023 Mazda BT-50 review: Full range detailed
The Mazda BT-50 is a popular midsize ute, available in single, extended and dual-cab forms. Learn more about the BT-50 range including price, interior, tray space, safety assists and performance.
2023 Mitsubishi Triton GSR review
With the next-gen Triton imminent, does Mitsubishi’s flagship GSR still have something to offer?
2023 VW Amarok Core and Life review: first drives
Entry-level 4x4 utes priced upwards of $50K might be a bit rich for some but the least-expensive Amaroks don’t feel like base model vehicles
2023 Mitsubishi Triton GSR: Quick review
The Triton GSR range-topper blends robustness with enhanced on-road performance
2023 Isuzu D-MAX LS-M: Quick review
The 2023 Isuzu D-MAX SX: a reliable and affordable workhorse.
2023 Isuzu D-MAX LS-U+: Quick review
The 2023 Isuzu D-MAX LS-U+ blends comfort and capability.
2023 Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain: Quick review
The 2023 Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain is a robust blend of power and luxury
2023 Mitsubishi Triton GLX+: Quick Review
The 2023 Triton GLX+ features an attractive suite of features that make it a serious contender in the mid-range ute segment
2023 Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R: Quick review
A compelling proposition in the mid-range ute segment
2023 Isuzu D-MAX SX: Quick review
The 2023 Isuzu D-MAX SX is a reliable and affordable workhorse
2023 VW Amarok vs Ford Ranger comparison review
Tubthumping: Can the all-new Volkswagen Amarok put the stoppers on the market-leading Ford Ranger? We test them on road and off
2023 Mitsubishi Triton GLX: Quick review
When it comes to practicality and bang-for-buck, the Triton GLX 9is an enticing package
2023 Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme by Walkinshaw review: First drive
Walkinshaw and Mitsubishi are launching a new Triton halo, and we’ve driven it
2023 Toyota HiLux review: Full range detailed
The Toyota HiLux is one of Australia’s most popular vehicles. Review the HiLux range including price, interior, boot space, safety assists and performance.
2023 Mitsubishi Triton review: Full range detailed
The Mitsubishi Triton is a popular light commercial vehicle in a competitive segment.
2023 Mitsubishi Triton Sport Edition review
Mitsubishi's MR-generation ute enters the twilight of its sales life with a limited-run Sports Edition, so should you run out and buy the last of this Triton breed?
