Best 4X4 Utes

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Mazda BT-50 ute has a long history. Mazda has been selling utes in Australia since 1964 with the release of the B Series light truck, later going on to sell 4x4 versions known as the B2600 and Mazda Bravo before creating the BT-50 badge.

Launched in 2020, the current Mazda BT-50 was co-developed in partnership with Isuzu and shares underpinnings and engines with the D-Max ute.