FOR WHATEVER

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 FREE INSIDE - 15 PAGES OF PARTS, ACCESSORIES AND ADVICE FOR YOUR 4WD

Annual 2021

Two’s Company
Kristen Fellers on how to get,
and keep, ‘er indoors – onside.

The next big thing?

ÄWE NAME NZ’S BEST 4X4S
S
We fuel debate by pitting RAM’s
Ä4WD SUV & UTE BUYERS’ GUIDE
petrol V8 ute against two of NZ’s
ÄWE ANNOUNCE OUR YOUR4S WINNER favourite turbo-diesels.
From the
OPENING SHOT
In the two – or so years Kristen Fellers has been
contributing to the mag, she and husband Scott,
have come up with a unique mix of ‘tales well told’
accompanied by photos that help to tell the story.
Some, like this beauty – however, go well beyond
that, into the realm of art, hence it takes pride of
place as our Opening Shot this month.
 04 4WD OF THE YEAR
Big or small, size doesn’t really
matter when it comes to buying a
4WD. You only need to look at the
class winners and overall victor of
this year’s NZ4WD Magazine 4WD
of the Year awards to see that.

10 COMPARISON TEST -
LOS TRES AMIGOS*
(THE THREE FRIENDS)
Together for just a day, three very
different utilities – a RAM 1500,
Toyota Hilux and Mitsubishi Triton
– became los tres amigos as they
ventured from Auckland to and
from Hampton Downs for a play
date together at the venue’s new
off-road park!

22 4WD PARTS AND

ACCESSORIES GUIDE
Adding that all important personal
touch to your 4WD has never been
easier – or more affordable.

40 YOUR4S PHOTO COMP

P
Each month in NZ4WD magazine
we showcase the skills of a keen
amateur photographer in our
Your4s feature. And each year we
pick the best single shot and award
the shooter a set of Kumho 4x4
tyres.

42 HOW TO GET YOUR LADY

TO ENJOY THE 4WD?
Expert advice from someone who
should know, NZ4WD columnist
Kristen Fellers who says; “Buy her
some proper gumboots, show
her how the truck works, go
somewhere pretty, and read on!”

50 NZ4WD BUYER’S GUIDE

SUVs and utes are transforming
New Zealand’s new ‘car’ landscape
with the extra versatility of 4WD
a key reason for buyers of work
or private vehicles to make the
move. If you are in the market for
a new 4WD SUV or ute our annual
Buyer’s Guide is for you!

2 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 The new Everest Sport.
Perfect for any environment.

UNLIMITED

ford.co.nz
 FROM THE

EDITOR
EDITOR
Ross MacKay
EMAIL: editor@nz4wd.co.nz

GRAPHIC DESIGNER
cherie@adrenalin.co.nz
EMAIL:

CONTRIBUTORS:
Mark Baker, Sean Willmot,
Kristen Fellers, Paul Richards
2020 (AHOAY)
EVENTS MANAGER A HELL OF A YEAR
Ashley Lucas
EMAIL: Ashley@nz4wd.co.nz

GROUP SALES MANAGER
Dan Prestige
EMAIL: dan@nz4wd.co.nz
PUBLISHER
Cathy Parker
EMAIL: cathy@adrenalin.co.nz
SUBSCRIPTIONS
MANAGER AND ENQUIRIES
Annette Colbert
EMAIL: subs@nz4wd.co.nz
Adrenalin Publishing Ltd
PO Box 65092 Mairangi Bay,
Auckland 0754
PHONE: 09 478 4771
FACSIMILE: 09 478 4779
SUBSCRIPTIONS:
NZ4WD magazine is an
11 issue magazine plus one Annual
Subscription in NZ $75 (incl GST).
Please call us for overseas rates.
COPYRIGHT:
NZ4WD is copyright and may not be reproduced
in whole or in part without the written permission
of the publisher. Neither editorial opinions
expressed nor facts stated in advertisements are
necessarily agreed to by the editor or publisher
of NZ4WD and, whilst all efforts are made to
ensure accuracy, no responsibility will be taken by
the publishers for inaccurate information, or for
any consequences of reliance on this information.
PRINTING: ImagePrint
DISTRIBUTION: Gordon and Gotch
ISSN 1175-1827 (Print)
ISSN 2253-2773 (Online)
Check out our website: www.nz4wd.co.nz
Log in and sign up for our FREE newsletter.
Well that (as in year 2020) didn’t exactly end up like any
normal person might have predicted, did it?
One minute I was planning another hectic, though at
the same time kinda’ loose, year of mags, trips away and
generally taking care of ‘busy-ness,’ the next I was willingly
joining NZ’s ‘team of five million’ in our first (and hopefully
only) nationwide Covid-19 lockdown.
Though the production of any type of magazine was not
considered an ‘essential service’ by the Government, we
managed to keep the titles I either manage or contribute
to – namely NZ4WD, Motor Equipment News and Company
Vehicle – going through the worst uncertainty of the
first stay-at-home lockdown by the simple expedient of
(POFIFOTO) ‘Putting One Foot In Front Of The Other.’
To be fair I also did a fair old amount of RCOMMB (Road
Cycling On My Mountain Bike), mainly because my local
MTB Park, Auckland’s Woodhill, was closed, as well as
arguably more HFTBWPFTW (Hoping For The Best While
Planning For The Worst) than was really good for me.
OK we all got through that first Covid-19 Lockdown not
to mention, those of us who live in the Queen city, the
partial Auckland-only one later in the year. The (by the look
of it very real) prospect of a vaccine coming on stream as
early as the first quarter of 2021 is definitely good news for
those of us who crave a little bit more normality than 2020
was able to deliver.
That said, though you could hardly consider it a ‘good’
one I’d wager that the year 2020 will go down as one of
those ’watershed’ years.
How you and I remember it, of course, will differ from
individual to individual. My major takeout, for instance, is
just how lucky here we are to live here in Aotearoa/New
Zealand.
Sure we may bitch and moan at and about each other,
but when the chips are well and truly down we appear
happy to (PODAAWTFTGG) ‘Put Our Differences Aside And
Work Together For The Greater Good.

ROSS MACKAY
EDITOR
www.facebook.com/NZ4WD

4 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 We customise vehicles Trade - Farm - Leisure
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 4WD OF THE YEAR

Ford Everest Sport.

BIG OR SMALL, SIZE DOESN’T It’s true! Turn up at any gathering of those inclined to what
REALLY MATTER WHEN IT marketers call a ‘4WD lifestyle’ (that would be you and I) and
COMES TO BUYING A 4WD. there will be every size, shape, age, stage and style of off-
road vehicles present from Suzuki’s original SJ410 Jimny to
YOU ONLY NEED TO LOOK AT
huge towering 80-Series Toyota Land Cruisers and similar
THE CLASS WINNERS AND but much later model Nissan Patrol ‘station wagons.’
OVERALL VICTOR OF THIS Car of The Year awards, of course, are about celebrating
YEAR’S NZ4WD MAGAZINE new rather than the older modded ‘trucks’ most Kiwi ‘four-
4WD OF THE YEAR AWARDS Wheelers’ are into.
TO SEE THAT. Still, the size issue raises its head. Last year, for instance,
we awarded our Compact 4WD class win, as well as our top
overall ‘gong’ for the Year to Suzuki for their all-new, fourth-
generation Jimny, a vehicle for which the term ‘small but
perfectly formed’ could well have been coined.
In previous years, Ford’s Range utility had established a
dynastic-like run by winning both the Ute of the Year and
the overall 4WD of the Year.
We still rate the Ranger highly, however, this time around
we found a 4x4 utility vehicle we liked better!
Story by NZ4WD magazine editor Ross MacKay That was the plus-size RAM 1500, a 4x4 which couldn’t

6 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 PARABOLIC SPRINGS

Terrain Tamer Parabolic Leaf Springs

are designed for the ultimate in ride quality.
Utilising a new design on an old technology, the parabolic spring
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Phone (09) 263 6021 or visit us at terraintamer.com
 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Suzuki Vitara Turbo.
be more different to Suzuki’s comparatively tiny Jimny if it
tried. Yet – incredible as it may seem, when you are sitting
behind the steering wheel of either, they do a very similar
job off as well as on-road.
2020 will be remembered more for the disruptive force
of the Covid-19 Pandemic than anything else of course.
Yet here at NZ4WD Towers we still got to drive most of the
new 4WD metal released by the key distributors.
Unfortunately for some – Isuzu and Mazda come to mind
– their new D-Max/BT50 ute model missed the 2020 cut by
days.
As for what might to some – particularly the marque
faithful amongst you – seem like glaring or even
inexplicable omissions, all I can say is that ‘it’s complicated.’
As well as being the Editor of NZ4WD magazine, I am
also the magazine’s main ‘tester.’ While I am paid no more
to do this I see it as both an honour and a privilege and
take the role of driving and writing about new 4x4 offered
to me seriously.
One new 4x4 vehicle released this year – apparently –
in plenty of time to be considered for a 2020 award, was
8 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
Land Rover’s all-new Defender.
I say ‘apparently’ because despite my contact tel
numbers and email address being printed on the mag’s
masthead (page. 4 opposite my monthly From the Editor’
column) I was not invited to the Defender launch, and have
yet to even be offered a vehicle to ‘test.
My colleague – Land Rover aficionado and long-time
mag contributor Ashley Lucas – did receive an invite
to the media launch. As did fellow Land Rover-owning
contributor Kevin Isemonger and his wife to a VIP soiree at
the same venue later the same day.
While I was happy to run Ashley’s report from the launch
in the October issue of the mag, because I have yet to
drive a new Defender myself, I couldn’t in all conscience
consider it for a 2020 award.
In saying that one 4x4 l would have loved to give an
award to was Chinese manufacturer Haval’s Prado-size H9.
Robust, roomy and an excellent tow rig it was my ‘wow,
I didn’t see THAT coming’ pick of the year’.
On, however, to who actually won what in 2020?

Compact 4WD SUV of the Year 2020
Suzuki Vitara Turbo
Back on top in the ‘Compact 4WD SUV’ sector after it’s
small-but-perfectly-formed stable-mate, the then new
fourth-generation Suzuki Jimny swept all before it –
including the best overall gong for 2019 – last year, Suzuki’s
Vitara 4WD Turbo gets our top vote again this year because
it is such a dynamic and involving drive. Keen pricing also
means that it continues to offer impressive VFM (Value For
Money).
Medium 4WD SUV of the Year 2020
Toyota RAV4 Ltd Hybrid
No Prius jokes please! Indeed, from the minute we got to
drive one of the new all-wheel-drive 2.5 litre petrol/electric
hybrids on the official launch last year we knew it was
going to be a game changer. New E-Four drive system is
worth an award of its own. As we said about Mitsubishi and
its PHEV Hybrid Outlander last year, while other car makers
promise a bright electric-only future Mitsubishi and Toyota
have been quietly and efficiently converting previous
petrolheads with Hybrids for years.
Large 4WD SUV of the Year 2020
Ford Everest Sport
This came as a nice surprise, a second, Ranger-based
Everest 4WD SUV, shorn of some of the line-topping
Titanium model’s excesses (like the all-singing, all-dancing
sunroof for instance) but retaining the good bits – the
Raptor’s twin-turbo two-litre engine and 10-speed auto
trans, a coil-sprung/disc-brake rear axle and 3,100kg braked
4WD OF THE YEAR
RAM 1500.
towing capacity – for a saving of around $5,000. Tough,
rugged, reliable and comfortable, what’s not to like about
Ford’s Everest Sport!
4WD Ute of the Year 2020
RAM 1500
Big is definitely beautiful this year as RAM importer Ateco
Group Ltd takes on the might of the turbo-diesel/double-
cab 4WD Utility sector with an ever-expanding range of
larger-than life 1500-line 4WD petrol V8s. As entertaining
to drive as they are practical (once you get acclimatised
to the sheer size of the things) and as comfortable as they
are accommodating, a 1500 model can – literally – be all
things to all people. It can be a mobile office, it can tow a
digger for work and a – very big – caravan or boat for play...
all without raising a sweat, or costing an extra arm and leg
when the time comes to fill the petrol tank.
Overall 4WD of the Year 2020
Ford Everest Sport
A tough call this year after Ford’s still very good Ranger
dominated both the 4WD utility and Overall awards
landscape for so long. In the new Everest Sport, however,
Ford has shown that it is more than a two-model (Ranger
and Mustang) motor company. In fact, if you don’t need
the open tray carrying capacity of a utility but still need
the family-friendly size, comfort and ride of an SUV,
go-anywhere ruggedness and 3000+kg towing chops of a
separate chassis Ranger XLT or Wildtrak, then a tough, dual-
range 4WD station wagon like Ford’s Everest Sport could
well be the right buy in 2021 for you, and you, and you! -
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 9
 COMPARISON TEST
Story by Mark Baker. Pics by MB, Hannah Willmot and Ross MacKay.
Together for just a day, three very different utilities – a RAM 1500,
Toyota Hilux and Mitsubishi Triton – became los tres amigos as
they ventured from Auckland to and from Hampton Downs for a
play date together at the venue’s new off-road park!
T hree personalities, three ways of doing broadly similar
duties. Three takes on that essentially Kiwi desire to
have a vehicle that works hard, plays hard, washes up clean.
To borrow from the blurb in the brochure for one of these
three: “Gear up and get out there. Forget the weather, this
is New Zealand. Any mud you encounter will be worn with
pride.”
Three different vehicles, three different market segments.
Two are about benchmarking their latest versions, with new
trim packages and styling, gentle upgrades everywhere. The
third is a modern take on the origin of utes or pickups; a
reminder of how these vehicles evolved.
One of our trio has been an established leader in the
double cab diesel ute arena for decades; it has been the ‘go-
to’ for tradies, recreational users and governmental users
since Crumpie made rough, tough bush blokes so trendy
10 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
you’d see them in Queen Street. The Toyota Hilux arguably
created the double-cab diesel ute segment three decades
ago, and it has come a long, long way since then.
One is a challenger to that title, and has begun to make
inroads to those roles. From humble – and mainly petrol-
powered – stock, it has rapidly evolved into a double-
cab diesel ute offering stacked with features and value,
underpinned by a chassis and drivetrain with serious
offroad ability. The Mitsubishi Triton Black Edition throws
some serious opposition in the path of its rival.
The third embodies all that is great and good about the
original ‘pickup’ segment in the nation that spawned these
immensely useful vehicles. In America’s month of drama,
decision and denial, we got our hands on the very new yet
quite old school RAM (nee Dodge) 1500 Warlock. This is
a team, tool and toy hauler par excellence. Could anyone
 say no to this mighty beast? We certainly
couldn’t.
The first two proudly wear their Japanese
design ‘language’ in their sharply-cut and
angular snouts, showing similar frontal
profiles until examined closely. High-set
headlight clusters house LED light packs,
the grilles are broadly similar though of
course proudly bearing their distinctive
brand identifiers. Bonnet shapes are similar,
with slight scallops at each edge that slightly
improve vision in tight turns and offroad.
The lower half of the nose in each case is
clad in sensible plastic (colour-keyed for
the Hilux, black for the very black Triton) to
shrug off those building site bumps and the
occasional close brush with grassy banks
out in the wilds.
The RAM is simply purest RAM, ‘our’
Warlock finished in a deep blue with black
satin applique to the bonnet. In this spec
the front end is less shouty than the bright
chrome of other RAMs but no less business-
like.
There are two substantial pull-hooks
styled into the all-black bumper below the
‘Rebel’ grille, and a pair of subtle nostrils in
the bonnet (should we call something this
size a bonnet? It seems the Americanism,
‘hood’ is more fitting).
Of the three, the RAM has the most ‘old
school’ light clusters, though each headlight
come out of America. Â
encloses an HID main lamp. Also old school
in a charming way is the radio aerial, set into
the front guard in true 1960s-1970s.
Smooth operator!
Under the hood of the Warlock is a V8 –
of course – though a relatively modest
5.7-litre that almost seems dwarfed in such
a massive engine bay. It’s a smooth unit,
burbling its way down the highway and out
onto narrow rural roads, up sketchy clay
tracks and in between unforgiving pine
trees during our all-too-brief time together.
All three, of course, have comprehensive
active and passive safety feature packages.
Power is where the three vehicles begin
to diverge.
In the Toyota corner
The Hilux has been ‘THE’ ute for the job –
any job! – since the good old days of the
1990s, when the power companies and
Government Departments used to buy them
by the job lot, having been starved of robust
offroad vehicles since the FJ40’s production
run ended.
“... AND A PAIR OF
SUBTLE NOSTRILS
IN THE BONNET...”
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 11
 COMPARISON TEST
If you needed a vehicle
that could get out there and
back and carry a decent
payload of fencing gear, hut
repair supplies or just power
tools, Hilux was the ute for
the job.
These days it’s more
sophisticated, with the
smoothest auto behind a
modern 2.8-litre turbodiesel
that provides 150kW and
more importantly 500 Nm
of seamless torque, the
latter reached at 3,400 rpm,
Both figures are increases
over the outgoing version.
That peak torque figure
on this diesel automatic
model has been ramped up
by 11 percent; there have
been modifications to the
cylinder block, pistons,
turbo design and cooling
system.
Backing the revised
engine is an automatic
that must be a class leader,
smooth and fuss free
with ratio steps that make
on-ramps a pleasingly
linear process while steep
downhills can be idled
down with confidence
thanks to its Hill Descent
software.
It’s never allowable to do
a test like this and forget to
12 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
mention towing capacity
– that’s what many buyers
want to do, and what they
want to know is “what’ll
she pull?” Toyota’s answer
is 3500 kg, braked. To put
that into perspective, it’s
more than enough to tow,
launch and recover your
1900 kg Surtees Workmate
700 hardtop fizzboat (or
your preferred equivalent)
anywhere you please. Or
drag that nice shiny 1880
kg Jayco Journey duallie
caravan (or again your
preferred equivalent) to your
favourite bush or beach
paradise. In either case, you
have tray-based payload to
spare as well.
Toyota has tweaked the
rear suspension of the
eighth-generation Hilux,
with longer leaf springs to
suppress road vibrations,
wider spacing of the
springs for stability while
cornering under load,
and revised attachment
points to promote steering
stability. The Hilux has
retuned spring rates,
shock absorbers and
suspension bushes as well
as revised cabin mounts.
These improvements are
designed to deliver a more
agile handling response
and improve ride comfort,
particularly when unladen
on country roads and over
speed humps.
Our test vehicle came
without a canopy and with
a serviceable but perhaps
basic clip-in tray liner;
upgrading to the former
would be a must and there
are a range of aftermarket
liners that would add to the
tray’s longevity and looks.
Lest the Queen Street
Crumpies forget the
Toyota Hilux in SR spec.
workmanlike origins of the
Hilux, it is still possible to
buy one shod with tough
resilient steel wheels. Our
SR-spec test vehicle came
equipped that way, which
made for a striking contrast
with the painted, polished
and clear-coated alloys we
are accustomed to. The
SR variants have 17” black
steel wheels with all-terrain
265/65R17 Bridgestone tyres.
Strange choice? Perhaps, but
it allows the owner to roll
into a tyre shop and buy the
alloys they prefer. Actually,
that makes it a clever
offering – the buyer gets to
personalise their ute from
day one, stack the steelies in
the shed for when it’s time
to upgrade vehicles.
The 2021 Hilux gets a
full five star ANCAP safety
rating thanks to a range
of electronic braking
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 COMPARISON TEST
Mitsubishi Triton.
and traction-control
technologies, emergency
stop signal, reversing
camera, seven airbags,
and seatbelt reminders
for all seats. All variants
have Toyota’s Safety
Sense package featuring a
pre-collision system with
autonomous emergency
braking for vehicles,
pedestrians and cyclists;
dynamic radar-based cruise
control, lane departure alert
with ‘yaw assist’ and road
sign assist.
Trailer sway control is
standard on all variants, as is
active traction control.
And now, the Mitsi!
Mitsubishi’s Triton uses
the company’s well proven
2.4-litre Mivec direct-
injection turbodiesel and
backs it with a six speed
auto transmission. The latter
has a sports mode, though
it’s hardly needed with a
high torque diesel and six
ratios doing the work. Power
and torque of this all-alloy
four cylinder engine are 137
kW and 430 Nm respectively,
but the Triton doesn’t feel
any less capable on or off
road alongside Hilux. Peak
torque is developed at 2,500
rpm, just where it should be.
The Super Select II four
14 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
wheel drive system is
activated by a rotary knob.
We did try low range but
for most off-road uses the
high range four-wheel drive
is all that is needed. Low is
super low, great for sidling
around tricky narrow places
or backing the caravan,
but high four is the go-to
for most off-roading. ‘High
range four’ can even be
selected at speeds of up to
100 km/h.
“...ELECTRONIC TRAILER Like the Hilux, the Triton
STABILITY ASSIST FOR will tow 3500 kg. It has
THOSE FISH-TAILY electronic trailer stability
assist for those fish-taily
MOMENTS WHEN YOU moments when you wish
WISH YOU’D PAID MORE you’d paid more attention
ATTENTION TO WHERE YOU to where you put the heavy
stuff on that trailer. On-tray
PUT THE HEAVY STUFF...” payload is 950kg – almost a
tonne, and very handy.
On test, the Triton is like
that old mate you might
only meet once a year –
conversations pick up where
they left off, and the feeling
is comfortable and familiar –
blended with a catch-up of
what’s new and interesting
for both mates. This ute has
been in NZ4WD many times
in recent years, and each
time it has demonstrated
its technological
improvements, always
couched in a package
chock-full of value. This
test was no different – we
picked up the Black Edition
from Newmarket and were
immediately plunged into
Friday afternoon motorway
mayhem.
Though it is possible
to do something like this
all-black look and make an
awful hash of its application,
the Triton really makes the
look work. There’s a custom
factory-fitted body kit,
special surrounds for the
LED lights, and glossy black
18-inch allow wheels. Like
all our three amigos, the
Triton was shod in a road-
oriented tyre that reflects
how most of us would use
it most of the time. The
tyre spec is 265/60x18, and
there’s a full sized alloy
wheel spare too.
On the subject of wheels,
is anyone tired of the trend
of machining bright alloy
‘highlights’ onto a wheel
yet? Hands up all those
who prefer a whole-colour
wheel, black or otherwise.
Let’s not even consider
the stupidity of a four wheel
drive on 20-inch rims with
low-profile knobbly tyres
either. You need sidewalls
for comfortable riding and
for reliable offroad and on-
road driving. You need road-
oriented tread so you don’t
chew out expensive gnarly
Tail (light) piece.
tyres in the supermarket
car park. Like the Hilux and
the RAM, the Triton avoids
‘dubs’ and dumb tyres.
Thank goodness for that.
The Triton’s safety
package wins it a five star
ANCAP rating and includes
forward collision mitigation,
lane departure warning,
blind sport warning and
rear cross traffic alert.
Pleasingly, these features
don’t have that ‘hand of
God’ intrusiveness of some.
Absent is that ‘nannying’
push of the steering wheel
when the vehicle senses
you might be leaving your
lane by accident. The safety
electronics don’t intrude off
the tarseal. More cleverness,
though Mitsubishi isn’t the
first to offer it: all-around
camera views that keep
the driver informed of the
proximity of hard and soft
obstacles and how close
they are to the vehicle.
Having long ago reversed
an on-test SUV onto a rock
partly hidden in long grass
and dinged a rear valance
panel (sorry Mr Nissan) we
do like features like that.
A word to the wise: if
you think you know better
than the stability control
software and switch it off on
wet grass, best bring your
‘A-game’, and best not also
run in two-wheel drive. This
ute comes alive in that user-
selected low-intervention
spec but you are then
managing all that torque
yourself. Best of luck.
About the styling of that
front end – the indicator and
fog lamps are housed at the
very edge of the vehicle in a
bulge or blister that squares
off the edge of the truck’s
nose. It starts a profile
feeding right back into
the flare of the wheelarch,
giving other road users a
clear idea of the actual edge
of the vehicle. That’s good,
especially when the running
lights are in use. Maybe off-
road the bulge itself would
be slapped by vegetation
from time to time but the
paint and the bulge itself
appear flexibly resilient.
Presence of mind
Did anyone expect to be
standing three metres from
a RAM 1500 thinking how
understated the look is? It is
possible to argue the point,
but the colour combination
on our Warlock, and its
appealing side-on styling
balance, make this one of
the nicer American pickups
on our roads.
The Warlock is muscular
without being brash, with
satin-finish five spoke
alloys and sturdy running
boards enabling easy
access to the high-up cab
and commanding driving
position. It runs a one-inch
‘lift’ over others in the range.
It stands almost two metres
tall, is almost six metres
long and pretty much fills
a whole lane of motorway.
This is a two-metre wide
vehicle – with the mirrors
folded. Nobody’s going
to challenge you for that
lane position in a Warlock,
whatever the colour you
choose.
Understated, yes, but once
in local traffic its presence is
unmistakeable.
The Warlock’s 5.7-litre
V8 ‘Hemi’ engine delivers
291kW of power and
556Nm of torque, while
delivering the expected and
unmistakable V8 rumble
when under way. That
means it tops both our wee
Japanese amigos, but you’d
expect that. It’s also real-
world economical unlike
some of the bigger V8s
found in older import RAMs
That drivetrain begs
mention, Warlock bringing
the Torqueflite name
proudly into the 21st
Century with six well-
spaced ratios designed
to make the most of the
engine’s power and torque.
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 15
 COMPARISON TEST

Being a petrol engine, the power figure assumes more

relevance to forward progress.
“THE MASTER
Four-wheel-drive high or low is a push-button REBORN.
selection on the dash, while drive modes are on a rotary
dial – the only vehicle among our three that features
TURBODIESEL
this. It’s very much set-and-forget, a strong pointer at TASTINESS...”
how RAM sees the Warlock being used. Long trips, toy-
hauling, heavy duty stuff. None of that high tech flappy-
paddle stuff here.

Tonne-up boys
Towing capacity is 4,500 kg, a full tonne clear of the
other amigos. Coupled with the wide track, long
wheelbase RAM layout you get a tow vehicle for horse
float or race car that is without equal on our roads.
The on-tray payload is high but not massive at 920 kg.
Certainly enough to cope with an evil wee quad race
bike or a brace of trail bikes.
Right-hand-drive is of course essential on Kiwi roads
for the sake of safety. These days it’s no simple matter
getting genuine American muscle in right-hand-drive.
The RAMs are converted in Australia for both markets,
and the job is very well executed. If the driver didn’t
know the conversion had taken place it would not be
apparent at even a close and detailed look-through.
Interestingly, RAM says the conversion plant is running
24-7 and can’t keep up with demand. Other makes sing
a different song about limited demand from right hand
drive markets; RAM just goes ahead and gets on with the
job.
American Express
RAM has based Warlock on its Express Crew Cab,
with full-sized (American full-sized) doors for all five
occupants. Those rear doors open to around 90 degrees,
right out of the way for easy-as loading or unloading of
beer belly, kids or groceries.
Space is never an issue in a RAM. For some reason
it seems appropriate to quote the bed length of the
Warlock in Imperial measure: it’s 5’7” long, which means
at least one of our testers could lay out flat in the tray
and not touch the ends. The wellside has a sprayed-in
liner, which means no air gap or way for water to intrude
between liner and steel tray. It has a very clever cargo
divider too, which is handy with so much space, helping
keep the groceries in their re-usable bags.
On the topic of cleverness, all other manufacturers
should bow down to RAM for their inclusion of
Ramboxes in the tray wellsides where most others
simply waste space. This isn’t a new idea, American
pickups have had gear lockers in their wellsides since
the 1960s. It took RAM to bring that cleverness here, in
a new vehicle, and in a new form aimed squarely at the
recreational user.
Ramboxes are lockable, impervious 210 litre spaces
with drain plugs. Ideal for some salt ice and canned
drinks, or even a couple of decent trophy salmon
hauled out of the Rakaia River mouth. They even have
interior lights with rubberised waterproof switches. RAM
designers, we salute you. -
AMIGO UNO:
Toyota Hilux SR
$49,990
2.8 LITRE COMMON-RAIL TURBODIESEL
Maximum power: 150kW at 3000-3400 rpm
Maximum torque: 500Nm at 1600-2800 rpm
Transmission: six speed automatic
Front brakes: ventilated disc
Rear brakes: drum
Front suspension: double wishbone IFS coil spring,
anti-roll bar
Rear suspension: leaf spring
Fuel capacity: 80 litres
Towing capacity: 750 kg (unbraked); 3500 kg (braked)
MB: The master, reborn. Turbodiesel tastiness: this
is the engine the Hilux always secretly wanted,
even if its torque arrives a wee bit high up the rev
range. That torque profile is managed by the auto
transmission, which is very well matched to the
engine and is simply too good to be in a ute. Rather
like myself, it’s robust, smooth and communicative.
The Hilux front end has always been great. It
communicates clearly to the driver through the
steering wheel and seat, and never slushes off into
surprise understeer. Over recent years, the truck’s
rear end has simply become better and better,
thanks to some serious re-engineering by Toyota.
It is compliant and unfussed, never crashes out
or bounces offline, uses its limited slip diff and
electronic traction systems to maintain forward
movement even on wet grass and ‘roadie’ tyres.
On the axle twisting cross-up obstacle at Hampton
Downs’ excellent 4WD area, the Hilux was spookily
good. Watching it dangle a rear wheel in the air and

16 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021


regain its momentum was
a revelation. The electronic
traction systems are simply
that good.
Work-ute users never
had it quite this good,
and the interior treatment
is now looking so much
more integrated. Some
reviewers had complained
the infotainment display
looked stuck-on in earlier
versions but it really works
now. Not a hint of glare.
These things are important
if you are spending serious
time in the cab. I did find
myself wishing the Hilux
had a more aggressive
exterior, but a visit to an
aftermarket 4WD bits shop
would quickly solve that.
Perhaps I’d also unclip the
deck liner and go for a good
aftermarket spray-in jobbie.
The one that is in our test
vehicle just looked and felt a
bit low-end basic.
Verdict: for the tradie,
the user-chooser, the
traditionalist, even for
modern day Crumps. All
the legendary toughness of
the perennial Kiwi favourite
at a reasonable price that
allows the owner to go
½HiIux making easy work of
articulation section.
»Hilux on its sidling.
buy themselves a lovely set
of aftermarket alloys and
knobblies. And have change
left over for a latte and
smashed avo on toast.
RM: Yep, the Hilux is back
and it is ‘hunt’n bear’ (or
in our context here, Ford’s
long-time ute standard
bearer and market leader,
the Ranger) as our American
friends might say.
For a while there it looked
like Toyota had – if not lost
its way with Hilux, at the
very least handed the keys
to someone, er, unfamiliar
with the vehicle’s storied
past. The confusion lay,
apparently, in translation;
market research telling
Toyota’s product planners
that buyers wanted Hilux to
be ‘more car-like’ but leaving
it over to Toyota to decide
what that actually meant.
The result was several
years in the ‘wilderness’
where Hilux – literally – lost
its mojo.
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 17
 COMPARISON TEST
The good news now is
that with the latest facelift
and engine/drivetrain and
suspension upgrades that
mojo is back – and more!
The key improvements as
far as I am concerned are
the revised cabin mounting
points up front and the
retuned spring and damper
rates from and rear. Both
changes offer quantifiable
improvements on a whole
raft of different areas over
the previous model. Oh,
and I love the fact that
Toyota offers two different
throttle maps (Economy and
Performance).
SW: This latest generation
of the three amigos comes
without the Mariachi band
– or any other unwanted
noise come to that. While
the improved power and
torque are commendable,
as are the suspension
upgrades and all the internal
improvements, the most
noticeable improvement
for me was the sound
deadening. On road, or
even when putting the
‘NewLux’ through tough
trails – empty or fully laden
– what Toyota’s engineers
have done to quieten down
the refined and revised 2.8
litre is enough to allow the
Hilux to resume its number
one position. All the other
improvements add up to
sauce for the goose.
18 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
most at home, even over
“VALUE-PACKED, rough tarmac that would
USER FRIENDLY, tap offline other utes I have
STACKED WITH driven in similar conditions.
Braking is smooth and
SAFETY AIDS...” fuss-free. These days, would
we expect anything less?
Well, perhaps. There are
utes on the market that have
a troubling tendency to
shift weight forward under
braking, leaving the rear
wheels with not much to do.
Off-road, Triton makes
everything easy. Accurate
placement of front wheels
in mature pine forest tracks,
rear end grip in low grip
farm-style driving, side-hill
driving on a pine needle
base were all fuss-free.
AMIGO DOS: Driver feedback through
Mitsubishi Triton VRX Black Edition the wheel and seat are
$46,990 exemplary and encourage
2.4 LITRE D4 MIVEC INTERCOOLED TURBODIESEL confidence even among off-
Maximum power: 135kW at 3500 rpm road newbies.
Maximum torque: 437Nm at 2500 rpm Like Hilux, this truck
Transmission: six speed automatic with sports mode makes the most of grip from
Front Brakes: ventilated disc distinctly road-focussed
Rear brakes: drum tyre treads. The difference
Front suspension: Wish bone with coil spring, anti-roll bar here is that the wheel and
Rear suspension: leaf spring tyre package already feels
Fuel capacity: 75 litres ‘engineered’ to suit the size
Towing capacity: 750 kg (unbraked); 3500 kg (braked) and shape of the truck,
the hot mix and on winding requiring no switch-out to
MB: At first the front end felt country roads where the aftermarket. Gloss finish
soft. It had some bounce to engine and transmission means the wheels are easy
it on tarmac coming up to work to complement the to clean – a good thing with
an offramp stop light. But driver’s ability. a black alloy wheel because
that same compliance made In the riverside drive they may not show brake
sense quickly enough off route we used the Triton felt dust but they make a meal

of mud or dusty roads.
If Triton is the ‘one’,
definitely go for the Black
Edition treatment and
commit to a cleaning
regime. Subjectively, if I had
to pick one of these three
to live with, own and enjoy,
I think the Triton would be
my pick.
Verdict: value-packed,
user friendly, stacked with
safety aids and eminently
practical as a wash-and-
wear double duty ute for
workday duty/weekend
family and play.
RM: Hmmm, what a
difference change in model
year makes. Kiwis love
the (non) colour black,
of course, so I see this
particular model of recently
facelifted Triton being one
of the more popular local
models.
There’s no doubting the
success of the most recent
Triton facelift either, or the
eagerness of the what has
to be one of the best turbo-
diesel engines in the sector.
Baker is 100 percent
correct in his summation
of the Triton’s easily placed
mm-perfect performance
through the tight tree
section at Hampton Downs
4x4 Park as well.
In this company the Triton
exhibited the best (defined
here as ‘the most accurate
and with just the right
number of turns lock to
lock’) steering.
Having said that, in this
company, the Triton is also
the narrowest and has least
headroom for the driver.
I know this because until
I cottoned on to why it was
happening (a combination
of curved roofline and high
driver’s door line) I kept
banging my head every time
I tried to climb up and into a
4x4 Triton.
The constant upgrading
that Ford set in motion with
its Ranger and which has
seen Toyota, Holden (RIP)
and Mitsubishi itself shorten
up their time between
major model upgrades
accordingly, now – however
– sees Triton caught short.
Sure its last upgrade
arguably put it at or very
close to the head of the
pack style-wise. It is now
lagging behind Ford, Toyota,
Isuzu and Mazda however
in terms of body to chassis
rigidity.
I remember HSV making
much of the girdle-like
U-brace they added to
Holden’s ultimately ill-
fated Colorado to address
a similar issue. Toyota too
has just added some bigger,
tougher mounts between
the cabin and the ladder
frame to help tame its new
Hilux.
While not a deal breaker
per se it is certainly a sign
of how short new model
development cycles have
become in the super-heated
utility sector, and how – as
the old saying goes – one
minute you can be a
peacock, the next a feather
duster!
SW: I know the Black Edition
Triton is something of a
showboat, but then it’s a
showboat with substance.
Mitsi’s 2020 enhancements
to its workhorse have made
the Triton a formidable
package with contemporary
safety features, a much
improved appearance,
a significant refining of
the engine and of course,
the artistry of the revised
suspension hidden under
that Diamond Shield front
end. Then they painted
it black, for – literally and
figuratively – the finishing
touch. And it has breathed
new life into the Triton,
putting Mitsi’s offering right
up into the level of durable
and desirable when it comes
to Japanese utes.
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 19
 COMPARISON TEST
“GET IT CLOSE TO even with mirrors folded
in, but that’s never difficult
PEAK AT 5,600 RPM from such a commanding
AND IT SIMPLY driving position. The electric
power assist on the steering
SOUNDS GLORIOUS.” still allows the driver to
know where those big front
wheels are tracking.
Disc brakes all round slow
this 2.6 tonne (kerb weight)
heavy hauler from highway
to stop without a whiff of
heat. Impressive.
We do like a V8. Most of
New Zealand and Aussie
does. In other markets the
RAM has a V6 but honestly,
why would you bother? This
5.7 litre engine is an iron
block, alloy head 16-valve
unit with RAM’s Fuelsaver
tech which takes cylinders
out of the firing sequence
when it senses they are not
AMIGO TRES: needed. It’s not a big V8 in
Dodge Ram 1500 Warlock an American context, not
$119,990 as big as you’d find in older
5.7 LITRE V8 WITH FUELSAVER second hand RAMS, but it
Maximum power: 291kW at 5600 rpm leads our group for power
Maximum torque: 556Nm at 3950 rpm and torque. More to the
Transmission: Torqueflite eight speed automatic point, get it close to peak
Front brakes: ventilated disc at 5,600 rpm and it simply
Rear brakes: disc sounds glorious. Nobody’s
Front suspension: dual A-arm, coil springs, anti-roll bar road car should sound so
Rear suspension: five link, coil spring, anti-roll bar cool.
Fuel capacity: 100 litres The colour of our test
Towing capacity: 750 kg (unbraked); 4500 kg (braked) truck perfectly complements
the Warlock/Rebel exterior
MB: Mates in off-road racing own RAMs to tow their box treatment and the absence
trailers to events; others drag massive recreational fishing of the lashings of chrome
boats in and out of the briny. A bloke I know in Nelson says present in other Ram models
his RAM is the only thing he can use for both duties. is pleasing to the eye.
Look under this thing and it’s almost like looking under Verdict: Warlock is simply
a Baja pre-runner race truck. The suspension is built to do Warlock. Well named and a
heavy work and it’s designed to do it with minimum fuss or sublime – magical – driving
discomfort for passengers. On the rural roads you do need experience. I kept thinking
to place the truck precisely, being just over two metres wide of words like ‘waft’ and
20 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
‘warble’ when I drove it.
Warlock never lets the driver
forget its size or mass, but
there’s simply no finer way
to haul five humans plus
toys plus tinnies over long
or short distances.
RM: There were all sorts of
reasons why I decided to
award my 2020 NZ4WD Ute
of the Year gong to the RAM
1500. Fresh thinking was
one. Ease of use (particularly
when you take into account
just how big – not to
mention how heavy – the
thing is) another. Really
though, who did I think I
was kidding?
I plain and simply fell in
love with the whole ‘big-is
good/brawn-in-the-USA’
part of the RAM back story.
Which is odd given my
other great – yet sadly
unconsummated - love
affair is with everything that
a good old boy’s utility like
a 5.7 litre petrol-powered
RAM 1500 isn’t; a late 1980s
Porsche 911 SC 3.2.
In saying that, I have
sensed that there is change
brewing in our ute market,
especially at the top end
where self-employed
company director types
who – finally, or so it would
appear – are starting to flex
their buying muscle and
look beyond what everyone
else is driving.
The Warlock is now the
fifth different version of
the popular petrol-fuelled
5.7 litre V8 engined 1500
 ½RAM making short work of
H-D off-road

¾RAM Warlock engine bay.

line. Because my colleague a loading ramp, plus two

Ma(rk) Baker is a bit like that watertight Ramboxes to
he has tended to stick to make really useful space out
the facts of what the 1500 of what would otherwise
is all about. Which is good be wasted. Yes, its two
because it allows me to talk metres wide, yes it barely
about some of the fantasy. fits in a lane but damn, it
Like the times when you feels so good to drive! The
find yourself smiling just RAM makes a statement
thinking about one of the and whether you like the
times you drove a RAM 1500 statement (or the truck)
somewhere. Or the point or not, there’s no way of
in a conversation with a ignoring it. -
mate about a 1500 when
you realise that mere words
are simply not enough so
you stop talking, grab an
imaginary steering wheel
and start making the sort
of ‘ooooooofffff’ noise the
wonderful characterful V8
engine does when it comes
‘on cam,’
You have been warned!

SW: OK, Roger Miller wrote

about it and FCA brought
it to life: meet the RAM –
King of the road. Arguably
the most intelligent ute
ever designed with that
rear tub which features the
cargo divider that becomes

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 21
 COMPARISON TEST
AND THE WINNER IS? By Ross MacKay
It’s fair to say that around the (in this case ‘virtual) office
there were some fairly long-ish silences, interrupted only
by breath being sucked furiously over teeth, when I first
mentioned that I was ‘thinking about’ nominating RAM’s
big, brusque petrol-fuelled 5.7 litre V8-powered 1500 as my
2020 Ute of the Year.
“Thinking about” then morphed into “I’m definitely going
to” once I returned the Express Crew Cab press vehicle
(compete with requisite, big stoopid grin on my face) to
importer Ateco. Meaning that my mind was well and truly
made up by the time I was reminded that I was due to test
the latest version, the Warlock, in the middle of November.
The 1500, you see, is like that. Obviously (duh!) it is big,
making some observers ‘think’ it is also ungainly. And yet
others to decide (usually without ever actually driving
the bloody thing) that it is a gas-guzzling throwback to
the days where ALL American-made cars were ‘rubbish’
and that you’d be much better off buying a smaller, more
manoeuvrable Turbo-Diesel Double Cab ‘ToyoMitsiFosuzu’
and making do.
In saying that the ‘less-than-
excited’ response from my
colleagues did get me thinking
about my own pretty much
unbridled enthusiasm for the
righteous RAM.
Was I, for instance, blinded
by the flashes of sunlight off
the deep metallic paint? Or
deafened by the sweet burble
of the signature petrol V8
engine at idle.
As it turned out, help was a hand, help in the form of
a serendipitous ‘mix ‘n match’ (otherwise known as an
‘unfortunate clash’ or (more simply) a ‘cluster---k’ which
saw me not only double-booked but triple-booked with
test ‘cars’ of a weekend in November.
Remembering the old saying about life, lemons and
lemonade, however, I ‘got on the blower’ to colleague
and regular collaborator Mark Baker and suggested an
off-road ‘roadie’ to Hampton Downs to see how a V8 RAM
(in this case the Warlock) would foot it in an environment
(the motorsport park’s recently completed, purpose-built
off-road course) supposedly better suited to the other two
vehicles I found myself with over the weekend, a brand
new Toyota Hilux SR, plus the latest version (the Back
Edition) of Mitsubishi’s recently restyled and upgraded
Triton.
Like me, Baker ‘got’ the RAM straight away and was also
able to help with contacting Hampton Downs, as well as
collecting and dropping off one of the three test ‘trucks.’
There has been more than enough written in the
preceding pages for you to get a pretty decent handle on
the pluses and minuses of each of the three trucks. My
22 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
job here is to wrap up the day, and – of course – come up
with a winner.
Here goes.
For a start, Hampton Downs is onto a winner with its
new off-road park. Tucked into a quiet, sheltered corner
west of the main circuit facility, it has a mix of pine-needle-
covered soft clay, several well gravelled man-made obstacle
pathways, a serious-looking wet mud ‘swamp’ and a cool
little grass ‘TT’ track.
Pick your time of day so that you – hopefully – miss the
worst excesses of the city’s morning and evening commute
and Hampton Downs is an easy hour-plus-change drive
from Auckland.
Once you get there, too, the coffee at the Aoraki Coffee
Roasters café on-site is so good you could easily be forgiven
for thinking that you had never left the city!
On the road to and from it was easy to pick a winner –
the RAM 1500. Take the price premium out of the equation,
in fact, and the only competitor to even get close in terms
of making every journey feel
like a supremely relaxed, safe
‘event’ would be Ford’s tricked
up Ranger Raptor.
The new Hilux definitely
benefits from the extra power
and torque unleashed by the
latest upgrade. I also definitely
noticed a major improvement in
in-cabin NVH levels.
Which left the Mitsi trailing
along in a distant third. Styling-
wise it is right up there, but dynamically it now feels like it is
on the back foot compared to the now compliant Hilux let
alone the SUV-like ride of the RAM 1500
Off-road at the Hampton Downs 4x4 Park, the major
differences melted away to the point where the two turbo
diesel double cabs were virtually indistinguishable, the only
way to separate them was in terms of ultimate rear axle
articulation; measured by Baker and Sean’s ‘eye’-ometers as
I blasted back and forth over the man-made lumps, hollows
and divets of the axle twist ‘obstacle.’
In 4WD Lo each felt as competent and as capable as
the other and when the time came to do laps around the
mighty little (ATV-UTV-size) grass track each handled the
job with aplomb.
As it did on road earlier in the day, however, the RAM 1500
was also the ‘solo Amigo’ to impress off the road. It squeezed
between trees, eased up, down and diagonally across steep
slopes, and generally made itself feel’ half its size, weight,
width and footprint.
A remarkable performance from a remarkable truck
and one which sees it deservedly win this three-way
comparison test… from Toyota’s new Hilux SR and
Mitsubishi’s Triton Black Edition.
Well-chosen parts and accessories
can add real value to your truck.

Words by Ross MacKay, photo by Richard Soult

Adding fun(ction) and value

We’re all individuals so it’s good to see more and more 4WD owners adding that
all important personal touch to their work, family or weekend fun truck.

It has never been easier– or cheaper –
to personalise your 4x4.
Flick through the pages of this very
magazine and you will be able to find
inspiration plus an idea of the ‘look’
you are after.
Depending on what you do with your
‘truck’ or the type of off-roading you
either already do or you plan on doing,
there will be a certain way a truck sits
– high, low, with a lot of droop at the
front, sag at the back, or absolutely flat
– that you like or don’t like.
Just as there will be an amount of lift
some of you will think looks absolutely
‘right-on,’ while others will ask you
when the next Monster Truck meeting
is on in your neighbourhood?
Not so long ago, of course, you
had to take what you were given – or
were actually able to buy – in this
country, and most of us drove cookie-
cutter vehicles distinguished only by
their colour, set of ‘genuine factory
accessory’ mudflaps and/or aftermarket
‘monsoon’ shield clipped to the driver’s
door.
Now, with import licensing, a
strict quota system and a walk short
‘n socks-wearing public servant
often making the call on what even
individuals could bring in from
overseas (thankfully) a distant memory,
the sky is literally the limit as far as
‘bling’ of any description is concerned
with the results obvious to us each and
every day,
Want to ‘smarten up’ your new 4WD
ute? Easy. As easy as adding a new
lease on life to that old Patrol/Safari/
Surf you can’t kill.
Wheels, tyres, bars front back
and sides, snorkels, suspension kits,
roofracks, recovery gear, no matter
how vivid your imagination is, if you
can dream it (or sketch it on the back
of an envelope) you can buy and fit it/
have it fitted here.
The aftermarket is traditionally where
the action is but with record numbers
of new 4WD work and lifestyle
vehicles being sold, more and more
manufacturers are offering factory-
supported genuine accessories from
mag wheels to winch-ready bullbars.
To give you an idea of just what is
available out there we surveyed the
local scene and came up with this
feature.
Enjoy!

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 23
4WD PARTS & ACCESSORIES
Redarc’s Tow-Pro Elite
electric brake controller.
A lightweight solar
blanket form Redarc.
Redarc is on the
charge in NZ
Trusted Australian specialist
electronics company Redarc has over
40 years’ experience developing and
manufacturing world-leading in-
vehicle electronic solutions.
Designed, tested, and manufactured
in Australia, their products are proven
in the toughest environments in the
world. Whether it’s long-range touring
or a weekend escape, Redarc has the
solution to power your next adventure.
Visit your nearest auto-electrician or
4WD specialty store to find out more.
Tow-Pro Elite
When you’re towing the boat, camper
trailer or caravan, you’re going to want
to be in complete control and for any
trailer above 2.5 tonne it’s required by
law to have its own brakes.
Redarc’s Tow-Pro Elite is quickly
becoming New Zealand’s favourite
electric brake controller. It is the only
one to offer two types of braking;
Proportional mode (inertia sensing)
for the highway and ‘User-Controlled’
mode for off-road conditions and
tough terrains. Its minimal footprint
and factory finish allow it to feel right
at home in your 4WD.
Dual battery chargers
A dead battery in the middle of
nowhere is not only inconvenient, but
it can also be dangerous. Redarc’s got
your back with their BCDC range of
DC-DC chargers.
With the company’s DC-DC charging
technology these are the most
advanced dual battery chargers on
the market. Compact in size, easy to
install and fully sealed to handle water,
24 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
dust and vibrraations,
the BCDC ran ng
ge is
suitable for 12
and 24 volt
applications,
standard andd
variable/smartt
alternators plu
us most
battery typess including AGM,
Gel, Lead Aciid
d, Calcium and
LiFePO4.
Featuring a Maximum Power Point
Tracking (MPPT) solar regulator and
Green Power Priority, they’re also
ready for your solar set-up.
AC battery chargers
In between adventures it’s important
to keep your vehicle’s batteries healthy,
charged and ready.
That’s where Redarc’s SmartCharge
AC battery chargers come in. They’re
simple to use, just connect the
charging clips to the battery, connect
to an AC power supply and push the
ON button. They’re rated to IP65 – so
these SmartChargers can be used both
outdoors and in damp environments.
Once a battery is fully charged the
charger wakes up every seven days to
check the battery status and resume
charging if required. Alternatively, if
the battery drops below 12.6 volts it
will also resume charging.
Battery management systems
To get the absolute most out of
any dual battery setup, a battery
management system (BMS) is required.
Redarc’s Manager30, for example, is six
solutions in one and offers a variety
of features unlike anything else in the
market.
It fea
atures a
DC-DC C charger,
240V cha a
arger, battery
isolator, load disconnect
controller, MPP PT solar
regulator plus a remote
r
monitor.
For total control at your
y
fingertips, pair the Manager30
with a RedVision. With a distribution
box that can accommodate Redarc’s
battery systems, RedVision is perfect
for monitoring and controlling your
battery’s state of charge in real-time
(and more).
Solar power
Cross boundaries you never thought
possible by harnessing the energy
of the sun with Redarc’s 4WD solar
panels. Easy to use, these solar panels
are designed to complement your
vehicle’s current battery charging
system.
Redarc’s solar solutions include
high-quality monocrystalline fixed
solar panels designed to attach to the
top of your 4WD or camper trailer.
For something more flexible, check
out their folding portable solar panels
or ultra-convenient and lightweight
solar blankets. These blankets feature
solar cells attached to a flexible cloth
backing and can be easily folded up
and packed away.
For more information on
Redarc’s range of solutions,
visit redarcelectronics.co.nz
 Choose Ironman 4x4 for a full
range of 4x4 accessories
Ironman 4x4 offers a full range of accessories for your
4WD including bull bars, suspension upgrades, side steps
and rails, rear bars, underbody protection, lights, winches,
snorkels and camping gear.
The company’s nationwide network of dealers is also a
great place to go for helpful advice and over 50 years of
4WD industry experience.
Ironman 4x4 bull bars
Ironman 4x4 offers a range of replacement winch-
compatible bull bars which are designed, engineered and
tested in Australia. Every Ironman 4x4 bull bar is carefully
modelled using 3D vehicle scanning techniques to achieve
optimal cosmetic design whilst providing maximum vehicle
collision protection then crafted from premium grade
materials and components to deliver an unmatched mix of
LED Light bars are a popular part of Ironman 4x4’s accessory line-up.
26 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
stylish good looks and protection.
All Ironman 4x4 bull bars are made from the highest
quality SPHC oil and pickled steel (not mild steel) to give
maximum strength and rust resistance.
The finish on Ironman 4x4 bull bars is also top quality
using the Akzo Nobel powder coat system, which gives a
thicker, smoother and more durable coating.
It also means that Ironman 4x4 bull bars can be colour
coded to match your new truck colour.
Bull bars are available for most modern vehicles and can
be fitted at authorised dealers throughout the country.
Ironman 4x4 winches
Ironman Monster winches are becoming very popular with
two in the range, a 9500lb and a 12000lb. The gearbox
on the winches has an upgraded design with hardened
 Ironman 4x4 produces a full range of
recovery options for your 4x4.
gears to eliminate float for precision operation along with
an improved sliding clutch with straight cut gears which
eliminates any gearbox slip.
The rotatable gearbox allows positioning of the clutch
handle to allow easy hand access on most bull barrs.
Winches come complete with a wireless remote e with
a 40m range as well as a three metre lead remote. The
12000lb monster winch has a six hp (4.5kw) moto or
which is fully sealed and is supplied with a breatheer
tube for mounting high on the firewall away from
water. Winches have 28m of steel cable or the option
of 28m of synthetic rope.
Ironman 4x4 lighting
To help enhance your current vehicle lights, Ironman 4X4
produces a range of lights including the Gamma 175 H3
halogen with a pencil and spread beam, the Vega 220 H1
halogen and the Supernova HID 35W with internal ballast, a
glass lens, polycarbonate lens cover and with a range of up
to one km!
A recent addition is a range of LED lights from small
modular types through to a 756mm long LED bar producing
90W of power at 8100 Lumens.
Recovery equipment
Ironman 4X4 dealers can offer you an extensive range of
recovery equipment including snatch straps, recovery
kits, high-lift jacks and exhaust jacks. All come in sturdy
carry bags and you can feel confident of having the right
equipment should you get stuck.
Suspension
Suspension kits and components with raised height, long
travel and improved performance are available for most
makes and models. Ironman 4x4 shock absorbers are
available in 35mm Nitro gas or 41mm Foam cell. These have
longer travel and are built stronger to deliver performance
in all conditions. Leaf and coil springs are made from high
quality SUP9 steel and are available in different load ratings
from ‘comfort’ to ‘extra constant load’.
As are the company’s range of Monster winches.
Diff locks
Ironman 4x4 dealers stock and recommend the state-of-
the-art diff lock Harrop/Eaton E-Locker. Manufactured in
Australia in conjunction with Eaton Corporation and Harrop
Engineering, they use an electromagnetic design which is
maintenance free and have been engineered to capture 100
percent of the available torque sending it equally to both
ends of the axle.
Underbody Protection
Ironman 4x4 has developed a range of underbody
protection kits which give enhanced protection from rocks,
mud and debris. These kits are made from three and four
mm pressed steel, have easy bolt on installation with no
drilling or welding required, allow oil changes without
removal and are semi-gloss powder-coated for long life. Kits
are available for most late model 4WD vehicles including
Nissan, Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Isuzu and Mitsubishi.
Camping accessories
The range of camping accessories from Ironman 4x4
is always expanding with the proven rooftop tents and
awnings available and a new range of fridges from 30-50
litres, camping chairs, tables, swags, tent lights and picnic
sets recently released, there is something for everyone who
enjoys the outdoors.
The Ironman 4x4 range of accessories is
extensive. For a full run down see the website
www.ironman4x4.co.nz or phone
p 0508 IRONMAN.
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 27
 Innovation from Hella to enhance your 4x4
Hella’s range of award-
winning LED light bars
provide additional light and
are fully road legal with
ECE approval. Now, for the
first time, striking LED light
pipe technology has been
used to create an innovative
position light integrated with
a powerful high beam light
bar.
The sleek low-profile
housings are expertly
designed, and precision
manufactured using ultra-
durable materials to ensure
long life and value for
money.
Multivolt circuitry means
the dual function lamp can
be used on 12V or 24V DC,
whilst only consuming 36W
on high beam. Any input
between 9 to 33 volts offers
optimum brightness.
The adjustable mounting
system ensures for easy
installation and flexibility
for any orientation. (Must
be mounted according to
local installation regulations
for high beam and position
lamps.) Exceptional Hella
durability and long-
term reliability through
unmatched corrosion
resistance and toughness
is provided by a thermally
conductive polymer
housing.
Built for all weather
and conditions the light
bar is hermetically sealed
making it completely
dust and waterproof
(IP 6K7). The housing is
precision moulded using a
revolutionary non-corrosive,
thermally conductive
material. This eliminates
any potential issues like rust
or powder coating flaking
off. The scalloped contour
design is also extremely
easy to clean as there are
no cavities which can be
clogged with dirt, unlike
traditional light bars with
thin heat fin designs.
Hella LED light bars are
proudly designed and
manufactured in New
Zealand and covered by an
extensive five-year warranty
for complete peace of mind.
Note: Light bars must be
mounted according to local
installation regulations for
high beam and position
lamps.
For more info visit
www.hella.co.nz

Technology with Vision

LUMINATOR 3.0
Designed with style, built for performance -
the perfect lighting choice for taking your
on and off road adventures to the next level.

LED High Beam Driving Lamp

The new distinctive position lamp function is
made possible by HELLA’s innovative Edge
Light technology.

0800 4 HELLA (0800 443 552) for your nearest HELLA stockist www.hella.co.nz

28 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021


ECU-SHOP Summer Promotion
ECU-SHOP is the pioneer in
Diesel Tuning. From humble
beginnings in Thailand in
2004 they have expanded
to become a global business
with 125 full time staff, and
the largest manufacturer
of aftermarket ECU’s in
the Southern Hemisphere.
ECU-SHOP has been in New
Zealand for five years with
a nationwide network of 31
dealers from Invercargill to
Whangarei.
ECU-SHOP tuning and
performance solutions range
in price from $175 to $2195
fitting everyone’s needs and
budget. One of the most
popular combos, according
to Richard Fleming of
ECU-SHOP NZ is “the Boost
Speed Next 14-step Throttle
Controller with Ramble
Idle, Mobile App controller,
Anti Theft, Anti-Skid and
THROTTLE
CONTROLLER
- 14 Steps of Response
- Ramble Idle Tuning
- Mobile App
- Economy Mode
- Anti Theft Mode
- Anti Slip Mode
$
395 INSTALLED
THE DEAL Buy an Ultraboost and get a FREE
EGT & Boost Combo Gauge 1st Dec 2020 > 31 Jan 202
Economy Modes… which has
stormed the market here at
just $395.”
Also available from our
ECU-SHOP NZ dealer are
EGR deletes, gauges, larger
nozzles, forged pistons,
rods and cranks, enhanced
turbos, intercoolers, and of
course the globally famous
ECU-SHOP tuning chips and
aftermarket ECUs enabling
customers to get the most
out of their engine.
ECU-SHOP’s summer
promotion features the plug-
ULTRABOOST
- Up to 65% More Torque
- Up to 15% Less Fuel
- Mobile App
- 3 Maps
- Digital Dash
- A.I. Auto Tuning Mode
$
1595 INSTALLED
& TUNED
ECUSHOP.co.nz –– 021 155 0999
4WD PARTS & ACCESSORIES
app with two gauges, GPS
data and the ability for the
enthusiast to adjust injector
duration (within preset safe
limits) to suit their needs.
Most utes will see 50
percent more torque with
some up to 65 percent
as a result of the dealers’
tuning boost, injectors and
and-play loom Ultraboost common rail pressure, plus
tuneable ECU paired with a up to 15 percent less fuel
FREE EGT & Boost Combo consumption.
gauge ensuring you can The Combo Gauge can
keep an eye on vital engine be mounted in or on your
parameters. dash; comes with a sensor,
The Ultraboost has three loom, boost line, mount and
maps controlled via a hardware, and measures up
mobile app and A.I. (artificial to 60 psi and 900 deg. C.
intelligence) that looks at Models for Ranger PJ-PK,
various parameters and (PX1-2, BT50 soon), Hilux,
continuously adjusts the Triton, Colorado, Navara D23/
tune to suit individual driving D40, D-Max, and Rodeo are
styles. available from the ECU-SHOP
There’s a digital dash dealer network at
incorporated into the mobile ecushop.co.nz/dealers
EGT & BOOST
COMBO GAUGE
- Monitor Exhaust
Temperature to 900c
- Measure Boost to 60 PSI
- Sensor and Hardware
included
- Mounts IN or ON your Dash
$
395 +INSTALL
+
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 29
4WD PARTS & ACCESSORIES

A gift that keeps on giving

Christmas holidays are approaching and with that
comes outdoor adventures. Is your 4WD ready for
summer? Rugged Valley seat covers are a great gift idea
and make the perfect addition to your vehicle this season.
Rugged Valley seat covers are 100 percent waterproof,
tailor-made to fit your specific vehicle right here in NZ.
PROTECT YOUR SEAT FROM THE DAILY WEAR
& TEAR, MUD, DOGS,TOOLS AND MORE.
• TAILORMADE TO FIT YOUR VEHICLE
• TWO YEAR WARRANTY
• AIRBAG CERTIFIED
• 100% MADE IN NEW ZEALAND
• AVAILABLE FOR UTES,WAGONS,VANS,
ATV’S, TRACTORS,AND TRUCKS
A GREAT GIFT IDEA FOR CHRISTMAS
Available for all utes, trucks, vans, tractors, excavators,
quads and ATVs. From Toyota vans to the latest model
macho Isuzu D-Max ute, the workhorse Toyota Hilux.
We’ve got you covered. Over 100,000 hardworking
legends have given our seat covers a thrashing – farmers,
contractors, surfers, plumbers, truck drivers, builders,
hunters, workers and adventurers. We stand by our staunch
two-year guarantee because we truly believe in gear that
works.
Rugged Valley knows the way Kiwis live and we have
specifically designed our custom fitted seat covers for the
good old Kiwi lifestyle. We understand that Kiwis need seat
covers that can take a thrashing. We have seen enough of
those cheap, stretchy covers – they don’t last, don’t stay on
the seat and end up costing you money. We have also seen
enough of those makeshift arrangements – your partner’s
nice, fluffy towels or a big plastic black rubbish sacks.
Your vehicle needs to be adventure-ready and
maintaining seat protection has never been more important.
Rugged Valley seat covers provide high quality protection
for hard working legends. Mud, dirt, grease, spillages;
whatever your day brings, your Rugged Valleys will handle
it. Whether that involves carrying work tools to the trade
site, taking your dog to a mountain trail, or dive gear to a
secret NZ spot. That’s a busy life for you (and your seats!)
Because we truly care about protecting your people and
your gear. We empower people to get out there and do it
with gear that lets them. Ignore the elements, get the job
done.
Hear it from hard-working Skyla, who recently reviewed
our product: “Wow, just wow. My dad has been wanting
these for a very long time and when he finally got them for
his birthday he was blown away. Such awesome quality
and really easy to fit.”

SHOP ONLINE AT Get adventure ready this season and shop online
RUGGEDVALLEY.CO.NZ at ruggedvalley.co.nz. Or, call us to invest in your
OR CALL 0800 478 443 protection – 0800 478 443.

30 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

New canopy a game changer – UTEMASTER
The Centurion Canopy is
a complete game changer
when it comes to using your
work vehicle for weekend
pursuits.
Traditionally Canopies
have been made at a low-
spec entry point; this means
that while they do work for
some business applications,
they are almost impossible
to use off-the-beaten-track.
Here are a few of the key
features that make the new
Centurion from Utemaster
the ultimate overlanding
canopy.
The side doors on the
Centurion Canopy give
you up to 50 percent more
access into your wellside
than a traditional Canopy.
After a hard day wrestling
an off-road track you can
easily take your gear out
of the side doors without
having to climb through the
back to access gear at the
front of the wellside.
Rated at 200 kgs the
Centurion Canopy opens
another world of load
carrying capability for your
ute. On top of the Canopy
you can store a Roof Top
Tent, Camping Bags, Spare
Wheels, Kayaks, Bikes, Lift
Jack, Recovery Tracks,
Spades and more!
Sure, you can carry this
gear inside the canopy,
however that leaves no because it can support a and the cab occurs when
room for the rest of your load of 200 kgs without any off-road.
gear such as bedding, food, connection to the cab. The Cantilever Roof Rack
clothing, BBQ and items A roof rack set-up that extends over the cab making
that are sensitive to water. is mounted to both the it completely independent
Forget having to invest in a cab and the canopy can and eliminates the risk of
camping trailer, this could cause damage when the damage to the cab.
be the perfect solution for flex between the wellside
your next trip!
The Cantilever Rack is
To find out more, head to utemaster.co.nz/canopies
revolutionary in its design
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 31
 Challenge accepted
Well, 2020 was definitely a
challenging year. Covid-19
and the various lockdowns
around the world meant
that four-wheel drivers
haven’t been able to get out
on the tracks as much, and a
lot of companies in the 4WD
industry haven’t been able
to operate as freely as they
would like.
Luckily, Terrain Tamer
still managed to release
some exciting new parts in
the past 12 months, ready
for everyone to get out
and make the most of their
vehicles in 2021
Heavy-duty bearing kits
Terrain Tamer began the
year with the release of their
Heavy-Duty Wheel Bearing
and combination Swivel
Housing Kits, specifically
designed and manufactured
for vehicles operating in
extreme conditions.
Practical for unforgiving
terrain and extreme
applications such as mining,
the kits are comprised of
bearings that have been
made in Japan, with a
A Terrain Tamer H-D wheel bearing kit
32 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
Rockwell hardness rating
that is 2.5 points higher than
the OE-equivalent. These
bearings combine a new
forging technique with an
upgraded heat treatment
procedure to enable a
longer service life.
They also include an
innovative new range of
Heavy-Duty hub seals which
rotate on their own internal
surface, without relying on
the condition of the shaft
and thus eliminating wear
on other components.
These seals utilise a
labyrinth construction to
better prevent the loss of
oil and lubricating fluids
and better protect against
the ingress of dirt and other
contaminants, making them
perfectly suited to harsh,
muddy and dusty conditions
and ensuring both extended
seal and bearing life.
As with all Terrain Tamer
bearing kits, these new
kits include all required
components, such as
gaskets, nuts, gear lever
seats and bushes, boots,
washers etc, and all parts
are covered by a 12-month
warranty.
Terrain Tamer Heavy Duty
Bearing Kits are available for
a growing number of Toyota
Hilux and Land Cruiser
models.
GVM Upgrade kits
Terrain Tamer’s first
GVM Upgrade kit was
released in early 2020,
for the 200 Series Toyota
Landcruiser, and they have
since expanded the range
to include the popular
VDJ78/79 models, plus
an option using parabolic
springs.
GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass)
is a rating set by the original
manufacturer, and refers to
the legal maximum weight
of the vehicle, incorporating
the wheels, as well as
everything sitting atop –
from the vehicle itself, bull
bars, winches, fuel, people,
water, food and the dog.
Built into the GVM is also
the imparted tow ball mass
when towing, and a rated
axle capacity, a limit set for
how much weight should be
distributed to each axle.
Terrain Tamer partnered
with Multidrive Technology
to develop their range
of upgrade solutions for
popular 4WD models which,
when towing or loaded with
essential off-road gear are
often pushed to their GVM
and axle loading limits.
There are two kit options
for the GVM upgrade of
the VDJ78/79 Series Land
Cruiser, the first utilising
Terrain Tamer’s anti-friction
leaf springs, and the second
offering the alternative of
parabolic springs.
Both kits facilitate an
increase from the original
rating of 3300kg (dual cab)
or 3400kg (single cab) to
either 3950kg or a more
modest 3780kg and have
One of the new air
filter sealing kits.
 And a new aftermarket exhaust solution.
b independently
asses to increase t
front ax rating to 1540kg,
with the he er rated k
adding an extr 0kg to
the rear axle also, ki
the rating to 2440kg.
Consisting of exclusive
e Prado 120/150 series,
Terrain Tamer suspension
components, the kits
have been thoroughly
tested and analysed by
Multidrive Technology to
reach Secondary Stage
Manufacturers approval
and can be installed on
existing registered vehicles
at approved workshops,
and following state level
modification processes.
Filter insert kits
More recently, Terrain
Tamer has released two
new kits, featuring vehicle-
specific air filter inserts, to
help combat the issue of
dusting.
The original design
of the airbox, or upper
filter housing of some
LandCruiser models
features a seal surface that
is too narrow to match the
seal of the filter itself.
As a result, the filter
is not able to be fully
effective, as it does not
properly seal, allowing dust
to pass through the airbox
and enter the engine
intake, causing havoc with
engine components.
To combat this problem,
Terrain Tamer developed a
design protected range of
stainless-steel filter inserts,
which when fitted, create
a surface area to perfectly
match the filter, aligning and suitable for demanding OE-style hangers and
in the correct position performance applications brackets, designed to
to seal effectively and ere a freer flow o nnect to the vehicle
effectively reduce the issue exhaust gasses is required. original mounting points.
of dusting. ffler bodies com A 10mm thick, four-bolt
e inserts are available bossed with Terrai pe-through flange sign
r the Land Cruis mer’s logo, and feature ensures perfect fitt g
high flow perforated tube accuracy throu out and
J76/78/79, and VDJ20 internals, supported wit installatio kit is also
dels, and come in a kit, case stiffener as well a cluded, roviding all
whi also includes the heavy duty gussets with sket , nuts and bolts
corres nding air filter and endplate stiffeners, to re red for fitment of the
sealant re ired for fitting. fully support the exhaust stem.
pipes where they meet the All Terrain Tamer high
Exhaust syste muffle flow exhaust systems come
With new ECU and ese features are a with a five-year warranty.
remapping technolog e supported by heavy uty u
industry has come a long
way to increase power
and fuel economy, and
better meet the demands
of modern 4WD vehicles.
To assist with this further,
Terrain Tamer released the
first in their new range of
Australian-made High Flow
Exhaust Systems.
Don’t pay cylinder
Constructed from 409 rental fees again…
Stainless Steel and coated
with black heat-proof
ever!
thermal paint, Terrain
Join our nationwide
Tamer’s new exhaust
systems feature a double
industrial gas swap
braided flex joint and system by purchasing
3-inch mandrel bent tube an Eziswap Gas
which acts to maximise
cylinder and stop
the gas flow of the engine,
leading to better fuel
paying cylinder
economy and improved rental fees.
performance.
The systems also include
a large diameter turbo
dump pipe, incorporating 0800 394 7927
EGT and O2 sensor fittings,
and a 200 CPI catalytic eziswapgas.co.nz
converter with a high-
flow metallic substrate 100% New Zealand owned and operated
design to meet EURO 3
EPA emissions standards,
W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 33
 Atomic batteries 4x4 tech 101
It’s that time of the year again when a 12-volt battery with a 600 CCA staring battery it is important that you
we get into our big boys’ toys and head rating means that at 0°F, the battery know your OEM specifications, that
off to do some off-roading or go out will provide 600 amps for 30 seconds is the cranking amps (CCA) required
on adventures in our pimped up four- without dropping below 7.2 volts. to start the vehicle according to the
wheel drives. Starting batteries are designed to give Original Equipment Manufacturers
This summer, when you are ready a lot of energy for a short period of guidelines. You can never have too
for your outdoor adventures, it is time. An efficient well serviced engine much of this! The higher the CCA
essential that your four-wheel drive will start quickly without putting rating the better the cranking ability.
vehicle is all ready to go and safe. Make unnecessary extra load on the battery. Atomic batteries for four-wheel
sure you have all the preventative Before considering purchasing a drives and light commercial vehicles
maintenance done, check all your
equipment and tick everything off your
safety check sheet.
You know you won’t be going
anywhere until your vehicle has a
starting battery in a good state of
health. To make the most of your trip
and use all the extra bells, whistles,
gadgets and accessories, you may
need to have an equally good deep
cycle second auxiliary battery to
provide the extra juice to keep
everything going.

What to look for in a good staring

battery?
Vehicle engines require cranking
power to start, the power needed
depends on many factors, such
as engine type, engine size and
temperature. Typically, as temperatures
drop more power is needed to start
the engine. Cold cranking
amps (CCA) is a rating
that measures a battery’s
cranking power. It refers
to the number of amps a
12-volt battery can deliver
at 0°F for 30 seconds while
maintaining a voltage of at
least 7.2 volts. For example,

34 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

have some of the highest CCA ratings
in the market in this category. With
up to 850 CCA designed for more
cranking ability and durability these
maintenance free batteries give you
peace of mind and ensure that they
will crank the motor even in difficult
conditions while still having a lot of
grunt left.
Atomic batteries are proudly
supplied by AA Battery Service Ltd
and come with all the benefits you
would expect form one of NZ’s leading
battery suppliers.
Dual battery systems –auxiliary
battery
To run all accessories efficiently and
get the most out of them, sizing your
auxiliary battery is vital. This should be
determined by the load and how long
the load needs to run without charging
the battery.
Calculate the amp hours (AH)
consumption over the period –
double it and that will give you the
AH capacity of the battery required
to meet your needs. Doubling is
done to ensure that you discharge
Specialist
Battery
the battery to 50 percent only and
no lower. Although a deep cycle lead
acid battery can be discharged up to
80 percent, the deeper you discharge
a deep cycle lead acid battery the
greater the damage, hence causing it
to shorten the lifespan of your battery.
We recommend to always install
your auxiliary battery with a dual
battery system using a VSR (voltage
sensor relay). The VSR relay isolates
the starer battery when the starter
battery voltage goes below a setpoint
voltage level, for example 12.5V. This
would allow your starter battery to
maintain the minimum required
voltage to run the accessories and start
the vehicle when needed. The VSR is
fully automated and will not require
any manual intervention. Consult
your battery specialist for advice and
battery installation.
Atomic batteries are a reliable source
of auxiliary batteries with cutting edge
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Atomic Batteries are sourced
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call Atomic Batteires on
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Services 
   


 



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W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 35
 4WD PARTS & ACCESSORIES
Mountshop – the everything undercar specialists
If you know one thing about four-
wheel-drive vehicles, you’ll know this:
Shi…stuff – wears out.
It doesn’t matter if you have a 1986
Nissapra-Lexus hodgepodge of a trail
taming beast or a super shiny Range
Rover with all the goodies and a fourth
mortgage to pay for the fuel, bits is
gonna get busted sooner or later.
When they do, you want to be damn
sure you’ve got the right widget doing
the right work round your wheels.
You’re not going to jump on to
AliExpress, Wish or even eBay when
you’re buying bits for your bus, not
with the diverse range of vehicles we
have here anyway.
I mean, is it worth lashing out $20
waiting for three weeks and then
finding out, ‘’Aw stink, its not what
I think,” when you could have quite
simply gone to Mountshop and got the
right part in the first place?
Course not, and because the blokes
behind the Mountshop counters know
their sh…stuff, they’ll have what you
need the first time.
With nigh on 20 years supplying all
36 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
manner of suspension parts, engine,
body and subframe mounts, hoses,
couplings, steering rack components,
differential and exhaust parts – these
are just the highlights by the way –
there’s much more to the Mountshop
catalogue these days – for the trade or
the “I tinker with my toy” Kiwi motorist.
Mountshop today is an automotive
supplier of excellence, with branches,
well not quite everywhere, but in most
centres where they are easy to get to.
Ekatahuna not so much, but if you’re
in Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton,
Palmie, Lower Hutt or Christchurch,
there’s a big yellow Mountshop branch
ready to supply all those little bits ‘n
pieces which wear over time, or break
when they’re bashed.
The 4W-Drivers know and trust
Mountshop for the expertise, quality
of the components and being blokey,
jawing with the team about “last
weekend when it was going so well
until I cracked the diff mount,” but
they’ve been joined by a raft of new
customers.
See, the 4WD vehicle has been
replaced somewhat by the all-wheel-
drive vehicle and that means –dum
dum dum dum – SUVs, and guess
what?
They wear bushes and burst hoses,
and sometimes, someone gets the
idea that a lift kit would be a good
idea, because their armchair AWD
can ALMOST do what their boulder
bashing truck from 1982 could do, but
it needs just a smidge more – maybe
50mm – ground clearance.
Mountshop is pretty well-schooled
when it comes to lifters and most
every other underbody component.
In fact, Mountshop is a go-to supplier
for many OEM-factory replacement
components.
So when your bush is buggered,
your mounts are munted and your
suspension shot, remember the team
at your local Mountshop, where
knowledge, expertise and products are
found just over the counter.
Or you could check out the
Mountshop product range at
www.mountshop.co.nz
 ENG
N INE MO
OUN R T BO
ODY MOU
O NTS
T JO
O D KE YB

SUSPENSION BUSHES B P STOPS

BU
BUM IDL
D ER ARM
MS SP I C E S

C l i A sts
R
R ac i
pe
SILICONE HOSES SHOCK RESERVOIR STRETCHY TIE DOWNS U-BOLT
U S
N
QUALITY • SERVICE • KNOWLEDGE • LATEST RANGES
WHANGAREI . HENDERSON . PENROSE . HAMILTON . PALMERSTON NORTH . LOWER HUTT . CHRISTCHURCH
 4WD PARTS & ACCESSORIES
Load assist airbags from Boss
Life as we know it has changed, quite dramatically in some
cases, in 2020. A year most of us would like to put behind
us now and we are all hoping the rest of the world can get
to the luxurious position New Zealand is in, where life has a
normal feel to it again albeit still with a twist.
Boss Air Suspension is still supporting the trade vehicles,
Utes, vans etc. with our suspension airbag assist kits.
These Load Assist (in USA they are called Tow Kits) kits
are designed to help return loaded vehicles back to their
standard ride height for safer driving and handling.
Boss Air Suspension Airbags are designed to assist your
factory suspension. Adding Airbags to the suspension
does not change your existing suspension and they will
continue to work just the same. Airbags can be adjusted
by increasing or decreasing the air pressure as weight
demands.
With the airbag only kit you manually fill the bags from
valves with your own compressor, the local service station,
or as we have heard a few times a standing bicycle hand
pump. The most common place these valves are installed is
at the rear next to the tow ball
When installed, Boss Air Suspension kits allow you to raise
the vehicle back to standard ride height using air pressure
to compensate for any added weight. This helps to keep
Heavy Towing?
Loaded Tray?
Phone 09 415 7117
info@bossairsuspension.co.nz
One of the safest, most durable air suspension
airbags
g and load assist kits available
Î Single, Double and Triple bellow bags available.
Î Forged Alloy Ring and Stamped End Plate assemblies.
Î Maximum working pressure of 160psi.
Î 4-1/2" – 10" lift capabilities.
Î 5V KYPSSPUN VY TVKPÄJH[PVUZ PU HSTVZ[ HSS RP[Z
bossairsuspension.co.nz/load-assist-kits/
Take back control with a BOSS Load Assist Kit
BEFORE
AFTER
38 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
Let Boss Air Bags keep your Ute on the level when towing.
the vehicle level while towing or carrying that half metre
of builders mix, and prevents the rear suspension sagging,
bottoming out, and putting excessive pressure on your tires.
Airbags work best with proper functioning factory
springs; they are not a fix for tired springs and we always
suggest bringing your suspension back to standard before
installing air assist suspension.
One question the guys at Boss get asked a lot is; why not
just beef up the leaf springs or get heavier duty coils? And
yes, in some circumstances, when – for instance they know
a bit more about the vehicle use, they may advise their
customers to look into this option. However, the economics
of having a dedicated work vehicle and personal car at
home for the weekend are gone, in no small part instigated
by our vehicle manufacturers when the plush double cab
Utes stepped up and could become a 4/5 seater weekend
family car.
So now we load the Ute during the week for work and
empty it for the weekend. If you have selected to install the
heavier springs your ride becomes hard and bouncy when
emptied.
Instead, Boss Airbags offer the adjustability you need,
letting you adapt to the load in/on the vehicle, giving you a
similar ride with 500kg loaded or just two kids in the back
seat.
When you load your vehicle on sagging factory springs
the rear drops, upsetting the vehicle balance. Your front
suspension is lifted and does not fully engage. This could
mean your front wheels are light on the road and steering is
compromised. In the same situation driving at night, your
headlights will appear on high-beam to all oncoming traffic.
For those that often change their load weights away
from an available compressor, Boss Air Suspension offers
a range of on board inflation kits, from the simple where
you manually adjust from your cab, to the auto levelling
where the system will engage your air compressor system
automatically and keep you at a pre-set level ride height.
Boss Air Suspension holds stock ex-Auckland for most
available kits in the Boss range. All our kits come with simple
to follow instructions.
If you want to see if airbags are right for you, email
info@bossairsuspension.co.nz or give us a call on
09 415 7117
 4WD PARTS & ACCESSORIES

4WD BITS for...

4WD bits! The 4WD Bits’ Nissan Safari
ORANZ race truck.

What’s in a name? Pretty much everything if the name of roading. The guys at 4WD Bits really do know what the best
your company is mail-order/online retailer 4WD BITS… and parts and accessories are and they have the experience to
for more than 20 years now you have been in the business back it up.
of providing the 4WD market with quality affordable parts
and accessories; hence the name, 4WD Bits. To find out more get in touch with one of the 4WD
Bits team on 09 9632923 or www.4wdbits.co.nz
4WD Bits (which you can check out online at 4WDbits.
co.nz) stocks a wide range of parts for numerous vehicles
ranging from axle seals to intercoolers, differential gears
to suspension lift parts and kits, specialist off-road shocks
to full hydraulic steering and steering assist kits. They also
have a comprehensive range of recovery gear, bolt on
heavy-duty tow points and recovery hooks.
The guys behind the business have been and still
are involved in off road competitions, starting in winch
challenge and later moving to off-road racing, event, class
and stage sponsorship.
Many of the 4WD bits they sell have been tried and tested
off road in the distinctive orange 4WD Bits’ Nissan Safari
which started in Challenge class in winch competitions,
then moved to 697 and now races as 897 in off-road racing.
Racing as 697 the big Saf’ achieved numerous trophies
in ORANZ class 6 including short course championships,
Taupo 1000 podium finishes and was national champion in
2015, 2017 and 2019. So, when they say they ‘use and abuse
their own 4WD bits’, you know many bits truly have been.
The 4WD Bits team are continually updating the product
range to make sure customers always get some of the best
bits around. Some of the latest products added include the
S-Drive throttle controllers recently positively reviewed by
NZ4WD magazine, a range of soft shackles, vehicle specific
disk brake conversions, a selection of UTV performance
parts, Maxtrax recovery gear, the Blackhawk range of
IFS upper control arms and suspension bushes, and the
Elecbrake trailer brake controller.
Its rare in retail today to find such a rich vein of real world
4WD experience and knowledge of both vehicles and off

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 39
 YOUR4S

OVERALL
WINNER
Congratulations to our
December 2020 featured
photographer Merv Moodie
from Blenheim for his NZ4WD
magazine Your4s/Kumho Tyres
overall 2020 competition-
winning photograph of the
year! Merv sent us in several
nicely thought out, framed
and taken shots of his nicely
set up Land Rover Defender
and simply put, we were
hooked. For his efforts Merv
wins a set (of four) Kumho
4x4 tyres. Thanks to everyone
who entered, and remember, CIAN BENNETT – FEBRUARY WINNER.
if you like taking photos
(on a dedicated camera, or
smartphone) and you think you
have some great shots of 4x4s
in action share them with us
(email to editor@nz4wd.co.nz).
That’s what Merv did and look
where it got him!

OLD MATE – MARCH WINNER.

40 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

PAULA BURNETT – APRIL WINNER. JAY SANDERS – MAY WINNER.

PAUL RICHARDS – JUNE WINNER. HERMAN BOLK – JULY WINNER.

JAY SANDERS – AUGUST WINNER. PAULA BURNETT – SEPTEMBER WINNER.

SCOTT FELLERS – OCTOBER WINNER. JAYDEN GOLDSACK – NOVEMBER WINNER.

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 41
 Story by Kristen Fellers.

YOURLADY
THE 4WD?
Buy her some proper gumboots,
show her how the truck works,
go somewhere pretty, and read on!

42 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 ADVENTURE

A 4WD can take you places most people only ever dream of.
All the better if you have a supportive spouse to share them with.

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 43
 Handing over the keys somewhere big on scenic beauty but
moderate on challenges can earn you big ‘Brownie Points.’

You may have noticed that it’s not that hard to get your badass and this chat is not necessarily for them. Please
mates into driving off-road. Mud, snags, bad banter… replace wife with partner, husband, kid or best friend as
yup, they’ll be there. Before you know it you’ve built up required!)
an unofficial 4WD club and there’s a drive planned every If your other half is dubious about the amount of time
weekend. (or money!) spent on four-wheeling, put some real effort
But the wife* may not be so keen on this lifestyle. The in getting her hooked on it as well. In my experience, most
wheel lifts and bog holes, the endless dirty laundry, the skeptics are easily converted once they’ve gotten a good
constant bearing replacements – it can be a hobby more Shamanka Rock on
drive orOlkhon Island, them.
two behind Lake
Baikal; on the ice, two popular Russian UAZ
difficult to get the lady involved in. Consider a few simple tips for getting your lady into the
(‘Waz’) vehicles.
(*Totally necessary disclaimer: Some wives are just born truck and enjoying the drive.

44 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 ADVENTURE

Tip 1: Explain the purpose of the things

Our 4WD life started as many, with a relatively
stock but capable 4WD. Over the years it
evolved: recovery points, wheel size up, mud
tyres, stiffer suspension, winch… and so many
bearings. It’s always a bearing!
Learning the purpose of the truck mods was
super helpful in building trust in the vehicle and
in our ability to get out of a sticky situation. For
instance, the female in your life will probably
understand the winch, but you might have to
show her how airing down makes the tyres stick
to the ground better, or how the snatch strap is
going to get her out of a failed river crossing.
And what about all that stuff that you lug
around everywhere? Straps and hooks and spiky
surfboards? It is all quite overwhelming to the
novice eye. Knowing that your bulky bits and
bobs will keep us from getting stuck in the sand,
will help us get towed out of a swamp; that
information is key in appreciating how capable
you really are.
Essentially, there are tools for the job, both
part of the truck and carried by the truck.
Understanding how they work and when to use
them makes it all less scary. This brings us to the
next point...

Tip 2: Demystify your truck’s 4WD

capabilities
What are all those gears and buttons? Her VW
Golf doesn’t have them! I’ll admit, it took more
than one trip out for me to understand the many
options in our 1993 Mitsi Paj. Central diff? Rear
diff? Low range? What now?
With a lot of patience and repetition, I was
taught the gear ranges and purpose for each,
and now I find myself questioning the (far more
talented) driver on his choices. Explaining how
the truck works is key, because logic makes
things less intimidating.
So, our first two points are all about explaining

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 45
 y Getting deep into NZ’s beautiful back
country is what it is all about.

the truck’s abilities and accoutrements. A big

reason four-wheeling doesn’t appeal to many
is fear – of getting stuck or worse, getting
hurt. But there is a tool for just about anything
that would be causing anxiety. So show her
the kit and explain it all!
Steep up? Diff lock! Steep down? Low range!
Big river crossing? Snorkel! Scary rocks? Air
down, low range.

Tip 3: Take her along… but don’t hit the

big lines first time out
Tell her where you’re driving and why. Besides
her understanding of the truck itself, it will
boost her confidence to understand why you
are choosing your lines. Have her hop out and
be a spotter. Conditions usually look less scary
from the outside, so have her guide you and
she will then see that the rut she’s so worked

46 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 ADVENTURE

up about is barely a crack in the ground. Show

her the basic capabilities of the vehicle and
boost her confidence – in the truck and in
YOU!
A common mistake may be the urge to
show off. Save this for your mates who are
happy to help you winch the truck back
upright. If she’s traumatised, she’s going to
funnel future cash into the house reno instead
of a lightbar.
And for goodness sake, go drive somewhere
nice!

Tip 4: Encourage her to drive

This is so important! Get her in the driver’s
seat. Too many ladies out there are fearful
of breaking the truck – as if they would do
something you wouldn’t do!
A shorter drive will be less intimidating, so
keep her first drive local or let her captain a
slightly easier section of a trip. Incorporate
as many skills as possible. The more terrain
she is exposed to, the more self-assured
she will become. Plus, you never know
when you might need her. A sprained ankle
or undercooked sausie could mean an
incapacitated driver – and you both want her
to have the confidence to step up!

Tip 5: Watch YouTube videos (together!)

You might need to pour her a decent sized
wine for this – but stick with me here. If
your lady can see some gnarly driving from
the safety of the couch, she will feel less
intimidated by your driving. Find a show with
a similar vehicle, so she can see the incredible

y She will definitely get the hang of the snatch

strap if she’s the one climbing out the window…

Don’t assume she’s not interested; side lugs,

tread patterns; airing down, explain it all.

w Seeing what a winch can actually do will

help explain why you paid ‘so much’ for one!

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 47
 ADVENTURE

limits of skills such a big lean or a really deep

water crossing.

Tip 6: Make a weekend of it.

Lastly, not every trip has to be about beers
and the boys. There are some magical places
in New Zealand accessible by 4WD. Cook her
a proper camp dinner and show her what
makes getting away from it all so special. If
she’s the type of lady who can appreciate
sleeping under the stars, then she’s probably
also the kind who can learn about locking
hubs and rooftop tents.
I’m here as living proof that the other half
can be persuaded, and even a handy part of
the 4WD team. (In our 4WD chat room my
handle is “The Voice of Reason”. An essential
role!) It took some time for me to catch the
off-road bug, but it absolutely can be done
and now I love helping the newcomers
embrace 4X4 life.
To which end I’d love nothing more than to
see more women behind the wheel: let’s get
those ladies out there! -
The author in her own SWB Pajero seen here on a winter drive.

Making a splash can be part of her

education. i.e. why you need a snorkel!

48 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 ADVENTURE

Get to experience the real

South Island High Country with
NZ Adventures.

NZ Adventures 4X4 Tours

NZ Adventures is a 4x4 back country tour operation the Catlins to the Fiordland beech forest and the vast open
currently offering six different tours covering a large portion country of northern Southland.
and indeed many different aspects of the South Island. Roll on Waitaki: The first of what NZ Adventures plans
Established in the late 1990s, NZ Adventures is owned and to be a more in depth farm tour experience with some
operated by Southland based, Robbie and Connie Crickett. interesting and scenic tracks covering South Canterbury
For Robbie the 2021 season marks 23 years of guiding motor and North Otago. Trip will cover a wide range of land use
vehicle tours along the back tracks of the South Island. from extensive high country fine wool production through
NZ Adventures has access arrangements with 120 farm to intensive dairying.
and station landowners throughout the South Island Contact NZ Adventures for your 4x4 backcountry South
and has DOC concessions in Marlborough, West Coast, Island experience. www.nzadventures.co.nz
Canterbury and Otago conservancies along with access to
several plantation forestry estates.
All tours include accommodation and meals to the
highest standards in some of the scenic gems of the South
Island including amongst other towns and villages, Hanmer
Springs, Lake Tekapo, St Bathans and Alexandra.
The tour products on offer with 2021 / 22 dates due to be
set in January include:
High Country Heritage: A six-day 1250 km epic down the
backbone of the South Island from Blenheim to Cardrona
near Queenstown. Includes the eastern side of Molesworth.
West Coast Explorer: A five-day trip highlighting the
transition between the east and west of the South Island.
Hanmer Springs to Greymouth via the back country.
Includes western Molesworth and St James.
Big Sky: A new trip in 2018 this is a six-day tour through
South Canterbury, the Mackenzie Country and Central
Otago with the scenic splendour of the Alpine mountains as
FOR 2021/22
a daily backdrop. Starting in Geraldine and with overnights
in Omarama, Cromwell, Cardrona and Alexandra (three
nights).
Eastern Explorer: A new tour back in 2014, this has
become a very popular five days exploring the eastern
shoulders of the South Island. The Oteake and Te Papanui
Conservation Parks along with the Strath Taieri are little For more information
known highlights of this trip. info@nzadventures.co.nz
46 South: Introduced to the NZ Adventures tour line-up Phone: 03 218 8569
in 2016, 46 South is an interesting and diverse journey along
an imaginary line across the southern South Island starting
027 550 6727 or 027 435 4267
in Lawrence and ending in Cromwell with overnights in
Gore, Invercargill, Monowai and Te Anau. Highlights are
likely to centre on the diversity from the coastal scenery in
www.nzadventures.co.nz

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 49
 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 SMALL SUV

Is there a 4WD SUV (sport or suburban utility vehicle) in your future? If there isn’t, you will soon be in the minority as these prac-
tical, cost-effective vehicles blur the lines that used to exist between the various car and light commercial sectors. 4WD SUVs
take up the lion’s share of space in our annual guide. We have split the listings along standard industry lines small, medium and
large. And added a separate section for 4WD utes. If it is for sale, it will be here.

AUDI Q2 AWD
Relaunched in 2020 as the first of over 25 model updates, the Audi Q2 AWD versions
include the SQ2 super model. The Q2 has possibly the most dramatic Audi ‘face’ with
the octagonal singleframe grille being the centrepiece of the chiselled look of Audi’s
smallest SUV.

AUDI Q2 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

Q2 TFSI 140kW Quattro Sport $65,900 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1968 140 320 6.4 5 Star
SMALL SUV

SQ2 TFSi 221kW Quattro $82,500 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1984 221 400 7.2 5 Star

AUDI Q3
Audi’s Q3 takes Audi’s concept of a small SUV and intensifies it, making dramatic
performance enhancements at the same time. The Q3 offers improved on-road
handling with sharper chassis dynamics. The expanded range of Q3 models helped
secure a fourth in segment ranking for 2020.

AUDI Q3 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

Q3 Advanced 45 TFS1 $75,900 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1984 169 350 7.6 5 Star
Q3 S-Line 45 TFSI $85,900 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1984 169 350 7.6 5 Star
Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI $87,900 5 7-spd Auto Pet 4/1984 169 350 7.7 5-Star
RS Q3 $111,900 5 7-spd Auto Pet 5/2480 294 480 8.9 5-Star
RS Q3 Sportback $114,900 5 7-spd Auto Pet 5/2480 294 480 8.9 5-Star

BMW X1 AWD
As with its non-X brother, the X1 is there to get newcomers into the BMW brand with
the expectation that once they own a BMW, the only way to go is up. The X1 has a
solid offering with pricing designed to encourage buyers to go to the next level.

BMW X1 AWD PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
sDrive18i Edition $59,900 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1498 103 220 6.3 5 Star
sDrive18i $62,900 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1498 103 220 6.3 5 Star
sDrive20i $72,050 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1995 141 280 6.5 5 Star

BMW X2 AWD
More car than SUV to look at, the BMW X2 still has SUV (or SAV in BMW-speak)
credentials with targeted aerodynamic improvements, less weight, BMW
EfficientDynamics package and the BMW TwinPower turbo engine technology
contributing to this intriguing vehicle.

BMW X2 AWD PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
sDrive 18i M Sport $64,900 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1498 103 220 6.3 5 Star
sDrive 2.0i M Sport $72,300 5 7-spd Auto Petrol 4/1995 141 280 6 5 Star
xDrive 2.0i M Sport $75,300 5 8-spd Auto Petrol 4/1995 141 280 6.5 5 Star
M35i $91,103600 5 8-spd Auto Petrol 4/1995 225 450 7.4 5 Star

50 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 HYUNDAI KONA AWD
Given Hyundai’s ability to produce SUVs which look like SUVs, Kona begs the
question “why?” since it appears to be more an AWD hatchback. Kona’s trump card
though, is that it is a successful electric vehicle, which fits the SUV mould.

HYUNDAI KONA AWD PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
1.6T AWD $36,990 5 DCT Petrol 4/1591 130 265 6.7 5 Star
1.6T Elite AWD $42,990 5 DCT Petrol 4/1591 130 265 6.7 5 Star

JEEP RENEGADE
The Renegade has all the appeal of a feisty little terrier with that Jeep DNA, which

SMALL SUV
those who want a point of difference in their genuine off road capable vehicle often
look for. And don’t think because the Renegade is small, it’s not capable. It’s also the
most city-friendly Jeep you can buy.

JEEP RENEGADE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Trailhawk 4WD $41,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2360 129 230 7.5 5Star

KIA SELTOS
Seltos has been a runaway success for Kia and some might think is based on its
price. The AWD model doesn’t have that advantage, but it is by far and away the
pick of the bunch. If you can make the dollars work, the AWD Seltos makes the
most sense.

KIA SELTOS PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Seltos AWD $42,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1591 130 265 7.6 5Star

LEXUS UX250
The UX is a beautifully crafted vehicle which also integrates Lexus hybrid tech
into its design. the little lex’ AWD models are both hybrids with the specification
differences between the entry and the limited being the only aspect which
distinguishes the two AWD models from each other.

LEXUS UX250H PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
2.0 Hybrid AWD $66,300 5 e-CVT Pet/Elec 4/1987 107 188 4.7 5Star
2.0 Limited Hybrid AWD $76,300 5 e-CVT Pet/Elec 4/1987 135 188 4.7 5Star

MAZDA CX-3 AWD

The CX-3 has taken on a new lease of life thanks to Mazda’s superstar the CX-30.
The CX-3 is a very different vehicle and is a beautifully proportioned vehicle which
sits flawlessly under the CX-5 and admirably sets up the much larger CX models in
terms of specification and quality.

MAZDA CX-3 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

GSX AWD $38,695 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 110 195 6.7 5Star

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 51
 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 SMALL SUV

MERCEDES-BENZ GLA 4MATIC

In Mercedes-Benz-speak, the GL letters denote an SUV and the last letter the
platform on which it is based. Thus, the GLA is a small SUV based on the excellent
A-Class platform, and, as to be expected, it is just superb.

MERCEDES-BENZ GLA PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
250 4Matic $81,300 5 Auto Petrol 4/1991 155 350 7.0 5 Star
AMG 45 4Matic $111,200 5 Auto Petrol 4/1991 280 475 7.5 5 Star

SKODA KAROQ
The smallest of Skoda’s SUV, the Karoq – especially the AWD Sportline model – is a
SMALL SUV

quiet performer, both in terms of its engine and popularity. It Is the most expensive
of the Karoqs, but it delivers far above its weight while ably delivering on Skoda’s
Simply Clever promise.

SKODA KAROQ PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
SPORTLINE 4x4 $55,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/1984 140 320 7.6 5 Star

SSANGYONG KORANDO
Ssangyong’s fourth incarnation of its immensely popular Korando comes with a
single AWD offering. small SUVs don’t have to be AWDs, but in a range, at least one
model should. Ssangyong has opted to use its hero specced, diesel variant in this
role.

SSANGYONG KORANDO PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
2.0TDi SPR $40,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1984 101 324 6.3 5 Star

SUBARU XV AWD
Subaru’s award-winning XV has firmly cemented its place within the line-up,
but it has gone a few steps further, introducing an e-Boxer hybrid as part of a
two-pronged technology approach with the Forester. In this case, it is almost
unnecessary, given the XV’s prowess on unformed roads.

SUBARU XV PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

2.0i Sport $37,490 5 Auto Petrol H4/1995 115 196 7.0 5 Star
2.0i Premium $42,490 5 Auto Petrol H4/1995 115 196 7.0 5 Star
E-Boxer hybrid $42,490 5 Auto Hybrid 4/1998 110+12.3 196+66 6.5 5 Star

SUZUKI JIMNY 4X4

Described as ‘small but perfectly formed’, the Suzuki Jimny is yet another Suzuki
success story. What shortcomings it has are more than made up for in its 4WD
tenacity and fun actor. The Jimny doesn’t claim to be anything it isn’t, but it doesn’t
have to justify how good it is off-road either.

SUZUKI JIMNY PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
JX $26,990 5 Manual Petrol 4/1462 75 130 6.4 3 Star
Sierra $28,990 5 Manual Petrol 4/1462 75 130 6.4 3 Star
Sierra 2 tone $29,590 5 Manual Petrol 4/1462 75 130 6.4 3 Star
Sierra Auto $29,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1462 75 130 6.9 3 Star
Sierra Auto 2 tone $30,500 5 Auto Petrol 4/1462 75 130 6.9 3 Star

52 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 SUZUKI S-CROSS
The S-Cross is in need of a freshen up. As it is, the S-Cross is a generous SUV-
esque hatch which comports itself well on our roads. As a road-going AWD, it
demonstrates Suzuki’s consideration for passenger vehicle safety and retains
Suzuki’s inherent ability to put big space Into small cars.

SUZUKI SX4 S-CROSS PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
LTD AWD $33,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1586 88 156 6.3 5 Star

SUZUKI VITARA
An awesome AWD which is 4WD capable as well as being an AWD (roadholder),
the 2020 Vitara is a worthy continuance of the Vitara nameplate which has served

SMALL SUV
Suzuki so well. Vitara has a stunningly good engine, a fantastic fun factor and family
away trips with ease, comfort and safety.

SUZUKI VITARA PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
JLX AWD $33,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1586 86 156 6.3 5Star
Turbo AWD $37,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1373 103 220 6.2 5Star
Turbo AWD 2 Tone $38,790 5 Auto Petrol 4/1373 103 220 6.2 5Star

TOYOTA C-HR AWD

Toyota has refreshed its CH-R line up. It has kept the 1.2-litre engine, introduced
hybrid technology to the range and redesigned the exterior, toning it down to make
it a little less edgy but keeping the distinctive character lines. These considerations
are probably more significant than the AWD ability, but AWD is a bonus.

TOYOTA C-HR PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Limited AWD $38,490 5 Auto Petrol 4/1197 85 185 6.5 5Star
Limited AWD 2 tone $38,590 5 Auto Petrol 4/1197 85 185 6.5 5Star

VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC AWD

The Volkswagen T-Roc put in a limited edition appearance just before New Zealand
went crazy on the subject of small SUVs. When stocks ran out, Volkswagen intro-
duced the T-Cross, less an AWD version, giving the more aggressively styled T-Roc
a chance to return to the mainstream.

VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
TSI R-Line $52,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1984 140 320 6.8 5 Star

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ALFA ROMEO STELVIO

The Stelvio brings unmistakable Alfa Romeo style to the mid-size SUV sector. Three
trim levels and both petrol and turbo petrol, plus turbo diesel models are available,
each equipped with an eight-speed auto transmission and Alfa’s Q4 AWD system.
Good pricing with 2020 stock on runout.

ALFA ROMEO STELVIA PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Stelvio 2.0 petrol AWD $74,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1995 148 330 7.0 5 Star
Stelvio 2.2TDi AWD $77,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2143 154 470 4.8 5 Star
Stelvio 20Ti AWD $94,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1995 206 400 7.0 5 Star
MEDIUM SUV

AUDI Q5
The existing Audi Q5 line up is comprehensive, which is to be expected from the
brand’s most popular sized SUV. Q5 is due for an upgrade in early 2021 and will bring
new technology and a new Sportback design. Look for sharper lines in keeping with
the upgraded Q2 and Q3 models.

AUDI Q5 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

TD1 quattro 140kW Sport $96,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1968 140 400 5.1 5 Star
TD1 quattro 210kW Sport $103,5000 5 Auto Diesel 6/2967 210 620 6.0 5 Star
TFSI quattro 185kW Sport $113,500 5 Auto Petrol 4/1984 185 370 7.1 5 Star

BMW X3
The BMW X3 has cemented itself within the New Zealand automotive landscape
especially well. The X3 does present a strong powertrain range including a hybrid
offering as well as boasting a specification level, range and physical size which
resonates with Kiwi consumers.

BMW X3 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

xDrive 20d AWD $96,550 5 8-spd Auto Diesel 4/1995 140 400 5.7 5 Star
xDrive 30i AWD $103,700 5 8-spd Auto Petrol 4/1997 185 350 7.4 5 Star

BMW X4
Stylish, striking and powerful, the X4 is primarily a city street car that just fits the SUV
label. Quick off the mark in xDrive35d form and yet surprisingly fuel efficient. With
four-wheel drive underpinnings you won’t be spinning wheels in the wet, either.

BMW X4 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

xDrive 20d AWD $102,500 5 Auto Diesel 4/1998 140 400 5.9 5 Star
XDrive 30i $112,200 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 185 350 7.4 5 Star
M40i $138,300 5 Auto Petrol 6/2995 285 500 8.7 5 Star

54 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 FORD ESCAPE
Newly released in November of 2020, the new Escape embraces a more organic
shape – a radical departure from the previous model and is very much in keeping
with Ford’s other passenger models. The EcoBoost engine matched to the eight-
speed transmission is a brilliant combination.

FORD ESCAPE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
ST Line AWD Ecoboost $50,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1999 183 387 8.6 5 Star
ST Line X AWD EcoBoost $55,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1999 183 387 8.6 5 Star

HONDA CR-V

MEDIUM SUV
For 2020/21, Honda’s CR-V line-up has been extensively rationalised boasting
five and seven-seat options with AWD models offering five-seats only. Engines
and transmissions are identical across the range and the Honda safety suite is
consistently comprehensive across the model line.

HONDA CR-V PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
CR-V AWD Touring $43,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1498 140 240 7.4 5Star
CR-V Sport Premium $51,790 5 Auto Petrol 4/1498 140 240 7.4 5Star

HYUNDAI TUCSON
Due for a facelift in 2021, the Hyundai Tucson has a compressed range of three
petrols and three diesels with three specification levels each. Even so, there is a
Tucson for everyone, even the most demanding of buyers. It will be tough to top
what is current, but Hyundai’s going to try.

HYUNDAI TUCSON PRICE SEATS TRANS.; FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
1.6T AWD $47,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1591 130 265 7.7 5Star
2.0R CRDi AWD $51,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 136 400 6.4 5Star
1.6T Elite AWD $53,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1591 130 265 7.7 5Star
2.0R CRDi Elite AWD $57,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 136 400 6.8 5Star
1.6T Limited AWD $59,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1591 130 265 7.7 5Star
2.0R Limited AWD $63,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 136 400 6.8 5Star

JAGUAR E-PACE
First compact SUV from Jaguar. Available in either petrol and diesel-fuelled S, R-
Dynamic and R-Dynamic SE spec levels in a package as impressive dynamically as
well-received big brother the F-Pace.

JAGUAR E-PACE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
E-Pace S D150 $69,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1999 110 380 5.6 5Star
E-Pace S P200 $69,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1999 147 340 8.0 5Star
E-Pace S P250 $74,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 249 365 7.7 5Star
R-Dynamic S D180 $79,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1999 180 430 5.6 5Star
R-Dynamic S P250 $79,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 184 365 7.7 5Star
R-Dynamic SE P250 $84,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 184 365 7.7 5Star
R-Dynamic SE P300 $89,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 221 400 8.0 5Star

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JEEP COMPASS
Jeep’s Compass has a fresh look, core Jeep 4x4 tech and state-of-the art safety and
convenience features in a keenly priced multi-model line-up covering every possible
use from school run to extreme 4x4 trails.

JEEP COMPASS PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL/CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Limited 4WD $49,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2359 129 229 9.7 5 Star
Trailhawk 4WD $54,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2359 129 229 9.8 5 Star

JEEP CHEROKEE
MEDIUM SUV

Once the hero of the Jeep range in this country, the Cherokee has continued but in
smaller numbers than Jeep would like. Jeep has reduced pricing or the Cherokee and
kept the strong suits within the line-up and built them up to continue the Cherokee
name.

JEEP CHEROKEE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

Limited $56,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3239 200 315 9.8 5 Star
Trailhawk $59,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3239 200 315 10.2 5 Star

KIA SPORTAGE
Kia’s number one product. The company started with the Sportage and the cheerful
little runabout SUV has only improved with time. The range balance is perfect, the
pricing is spot on and today’s Sportage is second only in popularity to a Toyota, a
serious feather in the Korean brand’s cap.

KIA SPORTAGE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

2.0 LXAWD $41,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 136 400 6.4 5 Star
2.4 EXAWD $42,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2359 135 237 8.5 5 Star
2.0 LX Plus AWD $43,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 136 400 6.4 5 Star
2.4 GT-Line AWD $51,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2359 135 237 8.5 5 Star
2.0 GT-Line AWD $54,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 136 400 6.4 5 Star

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT

How to appeal to a new generation of Land Rover buyers: produce a vehicle with a
reputation, modern assembly techniques and contemporary components, entrust its
build to those who appreciate tradition. Or you just build a Discovery Sport and let it
sell itself.

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
P200 R-Dynamic S $77,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1997 147 320 7.9 5 Star
P250 R-Dynamic S $82,900 7 Auto Petrol 4/1997 184 365 7.9 5 Star
D180 R-Dynamic S $82,9000 5 Auto Diesel 4/1997 132 430 5.6 5 Star
P250 R-Dynamic SE $87,900 5+2 Auto Petrol 4/1997 184 365 7.9 5 Star
D180 R-Dynamic SE $87,900 5+2 Auto Diesel 4/1999 132 430 5.7 5 Star

56 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER EVOQUE
An exciting approach from Land Rover which paved the way for a new breed of Land
Rover enthusiast. The Evoque still commands respect and appreciation from die-hard
LR fans and newcomers to the brand, despite it being more a sportback or coupe than
a traditional ‘Landie.’

LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER EVOQUE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Evoque P200 R-Dynamic S $89,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1997 147 340 7.7 5 Star
Evoque P250 R-Dynamic SE $102,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1997 184 365 7.9 5 Star
Evoque D200 R-Dynamic SE $102,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1999 132 430 5.7 5 Star
Evoque P250 R-Dynamic HSE $109,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1997 184 365 7.9 5Star

MEDIUM SUV
Evoque P300 R-Dynamic HSE $117,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1997 221 400 8.1 5Star

LEXUS NX AWD
Largely unchanged from its initial release, the NX has been something of a sales
powerhouse for Lexus, with ‘special editions’ and hybridisation being the secret to the
model’s success. Furthermore, the NX has been the catalyst for other Lexus models
heading down ‘electric avenue.’

LEXUS NX PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

300 $85,900 5 CVT Auto Petrol 4/1998 175 350 7.7 5Star
300 F Sport $95,400 5 CVT Auto Petrol 4/1998 175 350 7.7 5Star
300 Limited $95,700 5 CVT Auto Petrol 4/1998 175 350 7.7 5Star
300h $85,800 5 6 Spd Auto Hybrid 4/2494 114 210 5.7 5Star
300h F Sport $95,000 5 6 Spd Auto Hybrid 4/2494 114 210 5.7 5Star
300h Limited $95,000 5 6 Spd Auto Hybrid 4/2494 114 210 5.7 5Star

MAHINDRA XUV500
Mahindra’s launch of a seven seat, people moving SUV took a great many by surprise
and delight. The XUV’s arrival tied in closely with the revised and extremely capable
Pik Up which introduced a compelling price structure reflecting excellent value for
money.

MAHINDRA XUV PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
XUV500 AWD W6 $32,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2179 103 320 8.1 4Star
XUV500 AWD W10 $40,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2179 103 320 8.1 4Star

MAZDA CX-5
Long the darling of the fleet sector, the CX-5 set a precedent with the CX-9, CX-3 and
the CX-8 being logical progressions. Later, came the CX-30 which might hint at what’s
to come with the next generation of CX-5s. The current range has been rationalised
retaining the best of the CX-5s.

MAZDA CX-5 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GSX AWD petrol $46,745 5 Auto Petrol 4/2488 140 252 7.4 5Star
GSX AWD diesel $48,995 5 Auto Diesel 4/2198 140 450 5.7 5Star
Limited AWD petrol $55,995 5 Auto Petrol 4/2497 140 252 7.4 5Star
Limited AWD diesel $58,245 5 Auto Diesel 4/2148 140 450 5.7 5Star
Takami AWD turbo petrol $61,795 5 Auto Petrol 4/2487 170 420 8.2 5Star

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MERCEDES-BENZ GLC
The GLC SUV and SUV Coupe from Mercedes-Benz demonstrates just how seriously
the German brand is taking its foray off the autobahn and into the outback, so to
speak. Two AMG-modded models are available in SUV or SUV Coupe form.

MERCEDES-BENZ GLC PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
300 AWD $102,500 5 9 G-Tronic Auto Petrol 4/1991 155 350 7.8 5 Star
300 e AWD $107,700 5 9 G-Tronic Auto Pet/Elec 4/1991 90 440 8.1 5 Star
AMG 43 AWD $132,300 5 AMG Speedshift 9 Petrol 6/2996 287 520 10.4 5 Star
AMG 63 S $184,400 5 AMG Speedshift 9 Petrol 8/3982 375 700 12.2 5 Star
MEDIUM SUV

Coupe 300 AWD $112,200 5 9 G-Tronic Auto Petrol 4/1991 190 370 8.1 5 Star
Coupe AMG GLC 43 $138,300 5 AMG Speedshift 9 Petrol 6/2996 287 520 10.4 5 Star
Coupe AMG GLC 63 S $189,500 5 AMG Speedshift 9 Petrol 8/3982 375 700 12.2 5 Star

MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS

The Eclipse Cross has seen a soft relaunch for 2021, differentiating it further from
the ASX on one side and the Outlander on the other. Dimensionally larger, and with
cosmetic highlights to bring the Eclipse Cross into the family, the small to mid-sized
SUV will see a hybrid in 2021.

MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
XLS AWD $37,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1499 112 254 7.7 5 Star
VRXAWD $43,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1499 112 254 7.7 5 Star

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER
Mitsubishi’s Outlander has been a success story for the Triple Diamond brand with
two hybrid models serving as the hero vehicles. Hybrid Outlanders set a benchmark
for hybrid development, while regular models retain significant market share through
their performance and style.

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
LS 4WD CVT $37,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2360 126 224 7.2 5 Star
XLS SPORT 4WD CVT $39,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2360 126 224 7.2 5 Star
XLS AWD $39,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2360 126 224 7.2 5 Star
VRX 4WD CVT $45,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2360 126 224 7.2 5 Star
XLS 4WD 2.3D $42,740 7 Auto Diesel 4/2268 112 366 6.2 5 Star
VRX 4WD 2.3D $48,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2268 112 366 6.2 5 Star
XLS PHEV 4WD $52,490 5 Auto Pet/elec 4/2360 94 199 1.9 5 Star
VRX PHEV 4WD $58,990 5 Auto Pet/elec 4/2360 94 199 1.9 5 Star

NISSAN X-TRAIL
A quiet performer for Nissan, the X-Trail paved the way for the slightly smaller but
eminently more successful Qashqai sales. X-Trail is a significant contributor to
Nissan’s overall market share, bolstering the brand’s passenger vehicle offerings with
three models of similar spec and price.

NISSAN X-TRAIL PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
ST 4WD $42,950 5 Auto Petrol 4/2488 126 226 8.3 5 Star
ST-L 4WD $43,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2488 126 226 8.3 5 Star
Ti 4WD $49,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2488 126 226 8.3 5 Star

58 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 PORSCHE MACAN AWD
The smaller of Porsche’s SUV line-up but in our opinion, the one which demonstrates
the brand’s penchant for elegance and design brilliance. The Macan is – if you can
have such a thing – a subtle Porsche with a good line-up of variants and all the
excellence the brand is known for.

PORSCHE MACAN PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

1984/ 185 370
Macan $108,700 – $169,700 5 Auto Petrol 8.9-10 5 Star
2995 324 550

RENAULT KOLEOS 4X4

2021 will see a tickle up, but we wonder if the Koleos needs it. This often-overlooked

MEDIUM SUV
SUV is well worth consideration. The portrait orientation of the driver/vehicle
interface is unusual, but more natural to use. The diesels are the engines to opt for
and we’d suggest sub-20’’ wheels.

RENAULT KOLEOS PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Intens/Sport 2.5 4x4 $51,990 – $56,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/2488 126 226 8.3 5Star
Intens/Sport 2.0 4x4 $58,990 – $63,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/1995 128 380 5.5 5Star

SEAT ATECA
Seat’s superstar SUV out of Spain, the Ateca was the first of the new generation Seats
to arrive here and it was a gamechanger. It was smooth, sophisticated and so quick!
Ateca formed an excellent platform for the trio of SUVs from SEAT and continues to
be a mainstay for the brand.

SEAT ATECA PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
FR 4Drive $51,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1984 190 320 7.0 5 Star

SEAT TARRACO
The third and final SUV for the SEAT brand, the Tarraco competes in the demanding
seven-seat SUV category. As with the smaller Ateca, the Tarraco offers a three-model
line up with the AWD model being top of the tree. Tarraco focuses more on sub-
stance and style over sporty performance.

SEAT TARRACO PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Xcellence 4Drive $59,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1984 190 320 7.3 5Star

SKODA KODIAQ
No longer new, but still a darling In the SUV world, the Skoda Kodiaq has seen a
couple of performance models in the range and they are performance plus. We
thought the Sportline was Impressive, but the RS is where the really hot action was for
2019 and still is for 2020.

SKODA KODIAQ PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Style TSi 4x4 $59,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/1984 132 320 8.1. 5Star
Sportline $65,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/1984 132 320 8.1 5Star
RS $73,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/1968 176 500 7.7 5Star

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 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 MEDIUM SUV

SUBARU FORESTER
The Forester takes itself from the medium AWD station wagon it might have been
perceived as and has transformed into a family-friendly AWD SUV, though this time
around, there are no turbocharged or diesel versions. The 2020 models have been
joined by two e-hybrids however.

SUBARU FORESTER PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
2.5i Sport 4x4 $42,490 5 Auto Petrol H4/2498 136 239 7.4 5 Star
2.5i Sport Plus 4x4 $47,490 5 Auto Petrol H4/2498 136 239 7.4 5 Star
2.5i Premium 4x4 $49,990 5 Auto Petrol H4/2498 136 239 7.4 5 Star
Sport e-Boxer $47,490 5 Auto Pet /Elec H4/1995 110 196 6.7 5 Star
MEDIUM SUV

Premium e-Boxer $54,990 5 Auto Pet/Elec H4/1995 110 196 6.7 5 Star

TOYOTA RAV4
Revamped completely in 2019, the new RAV4 showcases the direction Toyota is
taking with hybrid technology. Most of the RAV4 range is now hybridised and uses
the new E-Four All wheel drive system, a core element of the RAV4’s ability to go
anywhere with family comfort in mind.

TOYOTA RAV4 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GXL 4x4 petrol $46,490 5 Auto Petrol 4/2494 152 243 6.7 5 Star

Adventure $50,490 5 Auto Diesel 4/2231 152 243 6.8 5 Star

GX Hybrid $43,490 5 Auto Pet/Elec 4/2494 131 221 4.8 5 Star

GXL Hybrid $46,490 5 Auto Pet/Elec 4/2231 131 221 4.8 5 Star
Limited Hybrid $53,490 5 Auto Pet/Elec 4/2494 131 221 4.8 5 Star

VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN
Volkswagen’s Tiguan is a very capable and very well-specified SUV with a well-
defined split between Its five and seven-seater models. For the current range,
Volkswagen has dropped diesels for Tiguan, but the turbo-petrol engines deliver
smooth, powerful and efficient performance.

VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
TSI Highline 4x4 $58,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1984 132 320 7.4 5 Star
TSI R-line 4x4 $66,990 5 Auto Petrol 4/1968 162 350 7.8 5 Star
Allspace TSI Highline 4x4 $61,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/1984 132 320 7.7 5 Star
Allspace TSI R-Line 4x4 $69,490 7 Auto Petrol 4/1984 162 350 8.1 5 Star

VOLVO XC60
Fresh look and feel for XC60 thanks to ground-up redesign on Sino/Swedish
company’s own SPA platform. Impressive dynamics and innovative drivetrains bode
well as brand ramps up presence in local SUV mega-market.

VOLVO XC60 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
T5 4x4 $84 – $89,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1969 187 350 7.3 5 Star
D4 4x4 $86 – $91,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1969 140 400 5.2 5 Star
D5 R-Design $96,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1969 173 480 5.5 5 Star
T6 4x4 $97,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1969 235 400 7.7 5 Star
T8 R-Design hybrid $125,900 5 Auto P/E 4/1969 246/65 440/240 2.1 5 Star

60 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

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 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 LARGE SUV

AUDI Q7 AWD
Given space, comfort and distinctive Audi values were already in place, an increase
in power and torque, dynamic improvements like all-wheel-steering, air suspension
active roll stabilisation and mild hybrid tech are the 2020 highlights for the Q7, which
features current Audi design cues.

AUDI Q7 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

45TDi quattro $129,900 5 Auto Diesel V6/2967 170 500 7.1 5 Star
50TDi quattro S line $147,500 7 Auto Diesel V6/2967 210 600 6.9 5 Star
SQ7 TDi $188,100 7 Auto Diesel V8/3956 320 900 7.6 5 Star

AUDI Q8 AWD
LARGE SUV

Showpiece for the sleeker and more dynamic face of Audi introduced in 2019, the Q8
delivers Audi’s vorsprung durch technik brilliance and luxury in an elegant package.
Clever pricing too: diesel or petrol power at the same price, even at S line level.

AUDI Q8 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

50TDi quattro $154,500 5 Auto Diesel V6/2967 210 600 6.8 5 Star
55TFSi quattro $154,500 5 Auto Petrol V6/2995 250 500 9.1 5 Star
50/55 S line $162,500 5 Auto 5 Star

BMW X5 AWD
The X5 is the aspirational BMW SUV and the range is the most comprehensive when
it comes to x-Drive variants. For 2020, the big news is the plug-in hybrid which gives
you all the chocolate without the calories. Diesel, petrol, hybrid and performance
options are now available.

BMW X5 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

X5 xDrive30d Edition $126,900 5 8-spd Auto Diesel 6/2993 195 620 7.2 5 Star
X5 xDrive30d $137,800 5 8-spd Auto Diesel 6/2993 195 620 7.2 5 Star
X5 xDrive40i M Sport $150,700 5 8-spd Auto Petrol 6/2993 250 450 9.2 5 Star
X5 xDrive45e Plug in $158,500 5 8-spd Auto Pet/Elec 6/2993 210 600 2.5 5 Star
X5 M50d $181,300 5 8-spd Auto Diesel 6/2993 294 760 7.5 5 Star

BMW X6 AWD
A little unusual in terms of its shape, adopting a more overtly coupe-style than
SUV/SAV, the X6 nonetheless is unmistakably BMW, with all the technology and
sumptuousness we have come to expect of the brand. As you might expect, there is a
performance variant available.

BMW X6 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

xDrive 30d $149,400 5 8-spd Auto Diesel 6/2993 195 620 7.1 5 Star
M50d $187,100 5 8-spd Auto Diesel 6/2993 294 760 7.8 5 Star

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 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 LARGE SUV

FORD EVEREST 4WD

First major upgrade for Ranger-based but full-time 4WD, seven-seat ‘tough-SUV’ sees
adoption of Ford’s all-new smooth, refined twin-turbo two-litre engine and 10-speed
transmission. Ford refined the Everest offering, retaining the Titanium model and
adding an award-winning Sport variant.

FORD EVEREST PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

Everest Sport $74,990 7 10-spd Auto Diesel 4/1996 157 500 7 5 Star
Everest Titanium $79,990 7 10-spd Auto Diesel 4/1996 157 500 7 5 Star

HYUNDAI SANTA FE AWD

The new generation of New Zealand’s favourite large SUV was launched with six
AWD models with three different grades, two fuel types and three engine choices
(though the V6 is only in 2WD).

HYUNDAI SANTA FE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL. /CC kW Nm AVE L/100km SAFETY
2.5 petrol AWD $59,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2497 132 232 8.7 5 Star
2.2 diesel AWD $66,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2151 148 440 6.1 5 Star
2.5 petrol AWD Elite $69,490 7 Auto Petrol 4/2497 132 232 8.7 5 Star
2.2 diesel AWD Elite $76,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2151 148 440 6.1 5 Star
2.5 petrol AWD Limited $77,490 7 Auto Petrol 4/2497 132 232 8.7 5 Star
2.2 diesel AWD Limited $84,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2151 148 440 6.1 5 Star

ISUZU MU-X AWD

MU-X is the SUV version of Isuzu’s signature ute, the D-Max. While we are going to
have to wait until late 2021 for the new model to arrive here a 2017 ‘tickle-up’ made
the MU-X an even better seven-seat family all-rounder, with the same go-anywhere
off-road ability of the D-Max but with all the comforts of an SUV, now including 18-
inch. alloy wheels and an eight-inch touchscreen.

ISUZU MU-X PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL. /CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
MU-X 4x4 $66,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2999 130 430 8.1 5 Star

JAGUAR F-PACE AWD

Style, luxury, performance – aka ‘pace with space’ – as luxury AWD SUVs go, this
is one that’s unlikely to leave the tarmac for the really rough stuff, however that’s
probably immaterial – it’s been dubbed Jaguar’s ‘most practical sports car’, which is
about right.

JAGUAR F-PACE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL. /CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Prestige 20d $89,900 5 Auto Diesel 4/1999 132 430 5.9 5 Star
4/1999 – 177- 500 –
R-Sport 25d/25t/30t $94,900 – $99,900 5 Auto D/P 6.5 – 8.1 5 Star
4/1997 221 400
S V6 s/c petrol $109,900 5 Auto Petrol V6/2993 280 450 8.9 5 Star
S V6 2 x turbo diesel $114,900 5 Auto Diesel V6/2993 221 700 6.5 5 Star
SVR V8 s/c $157,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 405 680 11.9 5 Star

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JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE AWD

New-generation Grand Cherokee is an impressive beast. Superbly comfortable,
well-specced and becoming more popular by the day. Off-road ability of dedicated
Trailhawk version is unquestioned as is on-road/track performance of outrageous
Trackhawk!

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Limited 4x4 V6 petrol $79,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3604 213 347 10.0 5 Star
Limited 4x4 V6 diesel $86,990 5 Auto Diesel 6/3000 184 570 7.0 5 Star
Trailhawk 4x4 V6d $94,990 5 Auto Diesel 6/3000 184 570 7.0 5 Star
Overland 4x4 V6d $96,990 5 Auto Diesel 6/3000 184 570 7.0 5 Star
Overland 4x4 V8p $89,990 5 Auto Petrol 8/5700 259 520 13 5 Star
LARGE SUV

SRT $119,990 5 Auto Petrol 8/6400 344 624 13.5 5 Star

Trackhawk $169,990 5 Auto Petrol 8/6200 522 868 16.8 5 Star

JEEP WRANGLER 4WD

The Wrangler is built for one purpose: to be spectacular off the road. New model
in the form of the JL gives us two two-door models and three four-door (Unlimited
models) still with the Wrangler’s endearing qualities of an upright seating position and
vague steering. Refinement has Improved in JL model and ability has in no way been
compromised.

JEEP WRANGLER PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

Sport S 2dr $82,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3604 209 347 9.6 3 Star
Overland 2 dr $84,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3604 209 347 9.6 3 Star
Sport S 4 dr $72,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3604 209 347 9.7 3 Star
Overland 4 dr $84,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3604 209 347 9.7 3 Star
Rubicon 4 dr $87,990 5 Auto Petrol 6/3604 209 347 10.3 3 Star

KIA SORENTO
KIa is on a roll here atm with increasing demand from both private and business
buyers for its range of sharp-new and/or thoroughly refreshed models. Like? Like the
new seven-seat Sorento SUV. Anchored by a 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine, an AWD
drivetrain and list of active safety acronyms as long as your arm, don’t be surprised if
you start to see more Sorentos on our roads in the coming years.

KIA SORENTO PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

LX - EX - Deluxe $59,990 –$69,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2151 148 440 6.1 5 Star
Premium $76,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2151 148 440 6.1 5 Star

LAMBORGHINI URUS 4WD

Ultra hi-tech twin-turbo V8 and trick full-time 4WD system complete with Torsen-
type limited-slip central diff, four-wheel torque vectoring and rear wheel steer, Urus
is truly a force of nature, offering Supercar performance in a practical five-door SUV
package.

LAMBORGHINI URUS PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
URUS SUV 4x4 $349,000 5 Auto Petrol V8/3996 478 850 12.7 5 Star

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 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 LARGE SUV

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY 4WD

Latest Discovery trades set-square-drawn traditional lines for smooth, sculpted look
while continuing to successfully bridge the gap between Land Rover utility and
Range Rover luxury. Not as large or imposing as the traditional Range Rover, the
Discovery still offers unique mix of luxury and legendary off-road capability.

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
SE Td6/Si6 $115,900 7 Auto P/D V6/2995/3 190/250 450/600 7.5/10.9 5 Star
HSE Td6/Si6 $127,900 7 Auto P/D V6/2995/3 190/250 450/600 7.5/10.9 5 Star
HSE Luxury TD6/Si6 $139,900 7 Auto P/D V6/2995/3 190/250 450/600 7.5/10.9 5 Star

LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT 4WD

LARGE SUV
Puts the ‘S’ into ‘SUV’. The Sport is as agile, dynamic and responsive as a Range Rover
can get. Lighter, faster and more fuel efficient than before, the Sport had to do a lot to
live up to its name, given the Vogue’s impressive on-road ability, but it has. And then
some. Seven seats an option as is hybrid powertrain.

LR RANGE ROVER SPORT PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
HSE SDV6 $149,900 5 Auto Diesel V6/2993 225 700 7.0 5 Star
HSE Dynamic SDV6 $161,900 5 Auto Diesel V6/2993 225 700 7.0 5 Star
HSE Dynamic SDV8 $167,900 5 Auto Diesel V8/4367 250 740 8.4 5 Star
HSE Dynamic V8 S/C $167,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 386 625 12.8 5 Star
PHEV P400e HSE Dynamic $174,900 5 Auto Pet/Elec 4/1999 297 640 2.8 5 Star
Autobiography V8 S/C $179,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 386 625 12.8 5 Star
SVR $209,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 423 700 12.8 5 Star

LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER VELAR 4WD

Velar is a design-driven addition to Land-Rover’s Range line, based on sister company
Jaguar’s successful F-Pace model. New, smooth lines, chic interiors and eager diesel
or petrol V6 engines and slots into marque range between Evoque and Range Rover
Sport and Range Rover.

LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER VELAR PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL. /CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Velar P250 S $109,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 184 365 7.6 5 Star
Velar P250 R-Dynamic S $114,900 5 Auto Petrol 4/1998 184 365 7.6 5 Star
Velar D275 R-Dynamic S $124,900 5 Auto Diesel 6/2993 202 625 6.6 5 Star
Velar P340 R-Dynamic S $124,900 5 Auto Petrol 6/2995 250 450 9.4 5 Star
Velar D300 R-Dynamic SE $134,900 5 Auto Diesel 6/2993 221 700 6.4 5 Star
Velar P380 R-Dynamic SE $134,900 5 Auto Petrol 6/2995 280 450 9.4 5 Star
Velar D300 R-Dynamic HSE $144,900 5 Auto Diesel 6/2993 221 700 6.4 5 Star
Velar P380 R-Dynamic HSE $144,900 5 Auto Petrol 6/2995 280 450 9.4 5 Star

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LEXUS RX AWD
Mid-size RX350/450h pair build on the Lexus touchstones of luxury and sophistication
and saw a major overhaul in late 2019 to incorporate Lexus Safety System +, Active
Cornering Assist, Bladescan light enhancement system as well as Apple Carplay,
Android Auto and Qi wireless charging for enhanced connectivity.

LEXUS RX PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

350 AWD $97,500 5 Auto Petrol V6/3456 221 370 9.6 5 Star
350 F-Sport $109,700 5 Auto Petrol V6/3456 221 370 9.6 5 Star
350 Limited
$109,000 5 Auto Petrol V6/3456 221 370 9.6 5 Star
350 Limited/F Sport AWD
350 Limited 7-seat $109,500 7 Auto Petrol V6/3456 216 358 10.2 5 Star
LARGE SUV

450h hybrid $116,500 5 Auto Pet/Elec V6/3456 230 335 5.7 5 Star
450h F-Sport $127,700 5 Auto Pet/Elec V6/3456 230 335 5.7 5 Star
450h Limited $127,000 5 Auto Pet/Elec V6/3456 230 335 5.7 5 Star
450h Limited 7-seat $127,700 7 Auto Pet/Elec V6/3456 230 335 6.0 5 Star

MASERATI LEVANTE AWD

Canny modern motor industry marketing metrics meet glorious Italian tradition of
bespoke (sports) car building to produce the Levante, a quirky luxury SUV pitched at
heavy hitters who want the very best and are prepared to pay for it.

MASERATI LEVANTE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Levante & Lev.S $140 – $188,000 5 Auto Petrol V6/2979 260/320 500/580 12.0 5 Star
Levante GTS $242,000 5 Auto Petrol V8/2979 410 730 13.1 5 Star
Levente Trofeo $297,000 5 Auto Petrol V8/3799 441 730 13.3 5 Star
Turbo Diesel $148,000 5 Auto Diesel V6/2987 205 600 8.3 5 Star

MAZDA CX-8 AWD

The Mazda that’s smaller than a petrol powered CX-9 but larger than a CX-5, the
exclusively-diesel powered CX-8 is a jewel hidden in the underbrush if ever there was
one. Handling is stunning, performance is exceptionally smooth and sophistication is
redefined in this practically-sized large SUV.

MAZDA CX-8 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GSXAWD $56,290 5 Auto Diesel 4/2191 140 450 6.0 5 Star
Takami AWD $65,390 5 Auto Diesel 4/2191 140 450 6.0 5 Star

MAZDA CX-9 AWD

Second-generation CX-9 has won kudos from critics and satisfied owners alike. The
latest beneficiary of Mazda’s SkyActiv engine tech is loaded with family and driver-
friendly features. Seven seats, heaps of space and powerful 2.5-litre turbo petrol
engines, making big Mazda hard to beat.

MAZDA CX-9 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GSXAWD $59,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2488 170 420 9.0 5 Star
Limited AWD $65,990 7 Auto Petrol 4/2488 170 420 9.0 5 Star
Takami AWD $69,290 7 Auto Petrol 4/2488 170 420 9.0 5 Star

66 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

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 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 LARGE SUV

MERCEDES-BENZ GLC SUV/COUPE AWD

Not a typical SUV, nor – for that matter – a coupe, the GLC coupe is Mercedes-Benz
making a statement, by taking the best qualities of each genre to create a new one.
Raised ride height five seat hatchbacks never looked so good or were as versatile.

MERCEDES-BENZ GLC PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

GLC 300 4Matic $112,200 5 Auto Petrol 4/1991 190 370 8.1 5 Star
AMG GLC 43 SUV/COUPE $138,300 5 Auto Petrol 6/2996 287 520 10.4 5 Star
AMG GLC 63 S $189,500 5 Auto Petrol 8/3982 375 700 12.2 5 Star

MERCEDES-BENZ GLE AWD

LARGE SUV

Not to be confused with the equally impressive GLE coupe, the GLE SUV is Mercedes-
Benz at its best. Build quality and materials remain top-shelf, while performance –
even that of the small-engined variants – is impressive thanks to upgraded drivelines
and improved economy.

MERCEDES-BENZ GLE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

GLE 300d 4Matic $132,700 7 Auto Diesel 4/1950 180 500 5.1 5 Star
GLE 400d 4Matic $144,600 7 Auto Diesel V6/2927 243 700 7.7 5 Star
AMG GLE 53 4Matic $189,100 7 Auto Petrol V6/2999 320 520 9.4 5 Star

MITSUBISHI PAJERO 4WD

One of the last of a hardcore breed, the big Pajero still delivers the goods with its go
anywhere-ability, excellent towing capability and rugged build, which includes the
ladder chassis inherent in the design of Mitsubishi’s super strong seven seater.

MITSUBISHI PAJERO PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Exceed 4x4 $61,990 7 Auto Diesel V6/3200 143 448 9.1 5 Star

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT AWD

Upgraded model has seen a refreshed Interior with an eight-inch colour monitor
taking pride of place in the cabin. Pajero Sport adopts a power tailgate, remote control
locking from your smartphone and electronic driver aid upgrades includes lane
change assist and rear cross traffic alert.

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
VRX 4x4 $58,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2442 135 437 8.0 5 Star

NISSAN PATROL 4WD

True off-road capability, 3500kg towing capacity, powerful V8 and eight seats, the
Nissan Patrol is one of the most versatile vehicles around. It has a long and illustrious
heritage as an off-roader, and now it’s better than ever on the tarmac, too. Ti-L now
offers seven-seat option

NISSAN PATROL PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Patrol Ti & Ti-L $102,650 –$107,650 5-7 Auto Petrol V8/5552 298 560 14.4 4 Star

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 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 LARGE SUV

PORSCHE CAYENNE AWD

Porsche first foray into the world of SUVs and while at the time, it was a polarising
vehicle, today the company has developed a veritable raft of SUV Models – hybrds
included – all based on the original’s unique mix of style, performance and ability to
take the rough with the smooth.

PORSCHE CAYENNE PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

Porsche Cayenne $144,500 – $270,200 5 Auto Petrol 1984/3604 185-324 370-550 6.1-9.1 5 Star
Porsche Cayenne $167,300 – $310,700 5 Auto Pet/Elec 6/2995 462 700 3.2-3.4 5 Star

SSANGYONG REXTON AWD

Long serving traditional nameplate, the Rexton seven-seater G4 model retains robust

LARGE SUV
body-on-ladder-chassis design and sells here in Teammate and high-spec SPR guises
with 2.2-litre diesel engine, seven-speed transmission with part-time 4WD.

SSANGYONG REXTON PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Teammate AWD $42,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2157 133 420 8.3 n/a
SPR AWD $44,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2157 133 420 8.3 n/a

SUBARU OUTBACK 4WD

Current Outback retains all the core Subaru values and on/off-road composure Kiwi
car buyers have come to know and trust, while at the same time adding an extra layer
of quality, luxury and innovative safety technology which – at these prices – make it
a veritable bargain as well.

SUBARU OUTBACK PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
2.5i Sport 4WD $44,990 5 Auto Petrol H4/2498 129 235 7.3 5 Star
2.5i Premium 4WD $49,990 5 Auto Petrol H4/2498 129 235 7.3 5 Star
3.6RS Premium 4WD $59,990 5 Auto Petrol H6/3630 191 350 9.9 5 Star

TOYOTA FORTUNER AWD

Large ‘ruggedised’ SUV wagon from Toyota based on the Hilux utility so it’s tough
and strong yet with its own, unique coil spring/disc braked rear end it hat SUV
comfort and ride for family touring. There’s a new’ un on the way too, with a similar
bevy of improvements as seen in the new Hilux.

TOYOTA FORTUNER PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GXL AWD $54,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2755 130 450 8.6 5 Star
Limited AWD $59,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2755 130 450 8.6 5 Star

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER AWD

V6 Highlander is not short on power. Neither is it short on equipment or luxury, as the
latest generation climbs closer to the Prado in terms of size, specification and price.
Highlander works very well in New Zealand, though it has suffered with new arrivals.
Highlander is still a way off a freshen up to catch up to the competition.

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GX AWD $55,490 7 Auto Petrol V6/3456 218 350 9.5 5 Star
GXL AWD $58,490 7 Auto Petrol V6/3456 218 350 9.5 5 Star
Limited AWD $69,990 7 Auto Petrol V6/3456 218 350 9.5 5 Star

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TOYOTA LAND CRUISER PRADO 4WD

The 2018 upgrade to 4WD Prado brought restyled front end, increase (to 3000kg) in
braked towing capacity, revamped interior plus addition of Toyota’s new Safety Sense
(TSS) package across GX, VX & VX Ltd spec grades. Big, supremely capable all-rounder
only (just) starting to show its age

LAND CRUISER PRADO PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GX 4WD $72,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2799 130 450 8.0 5 Star

VX 4WD $81,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2799 130 450 8.0 5 Star

VX Ltd 4WD $93,990 7 Auto Diesel 4/2799 130 450 8.0 5 Star

VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG 4WD

LARGE SUV

Like its popular predecessors, new, latest-generation Touareg shares base DNA with
VAG Group cousins the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne. Rationalisation of the model
line-up here in 2020 saw the – no doubt very welcome – return of a TD1 V8 engine
alongside the two TD1 V6 oil burners.

VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
TDI V6 4Motion $97,990 5 Auto Diesel V6/2967 170 500 8.7 5 Star

TDI V6 S R-Line 4Motion $121,990 5 Auto Diesel V6/2967 210 600 8.1 5 Star

TD1 V8 R-Line 4Motion $141,990 5 Auto Diesel V8/3956 310 900 9.9 5 Star

TDI V8 R-line 1st edition $149,990 5 Auto DIesel V8/3956 310 900 9.9 5 Star

VOLVO XC90 AWD

Volvo’s XC90 is a confident statement of the Swedish manufacturer’s commitment to
safety, style and cutting-edge engine tech. Three trim levels, Momentum. Inscription
and R-Design with line-up covering petrol, diesel and – of course! – a trick petrol/
electric hybrid.

VOLVO XC90 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
D5 AWD $104,900 7 Auto Diesel 4/1969 173 480 5.7 5 Star

D5 / T6 AWD $110,900 – $116,900 7 Auto Petrol 4/1969 246 440 8.0 5 Star

D5 / T6 / T8 AWD $112,900 – $149,900 7 Auto P/Elec 4/1969 311 680 2.1 5 Star

70 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

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BENTLEY BENTAYGA AWD

To quote VW-owned British luxury car maker Bentley, the new Bentayga is ‘the
fastest, most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive SUV in the world’... and
who are we to argue. Now available here with V8 petrol as well as four-litre W12
diesel turbo.

BENTLEY BENTAYGA PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Bentayga Petrol $334,300 7 Auto Petrol V8/3993 404 770 11.4 5Star

EXTRA LARGE SUV

Bentayga Diesel $476,600 7 Auto Diesel W12/5950 466 900 14.7 5Star

LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER

Range Rover gets more dynamic on and off the road with each new generation.
The latest version is packed with a remarkable amount of the latest technology
and luxury, as well being incredible to drive. Off-road, of course, it remains equally
impressive. All models are 4WD. All Autobiography models are supercharged, as is top
end Vogue.

LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
Vogue SD/SE V8 (D) $195 – $221,900 5 Auto Diesel V8/4367 250 740 9.2 5Star

Vogue SE V8 S/C (P) $221,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 386 625 12.9 5Star

Vogue SE PHEV P400E $195,900 5 Auto P/Elec 4/1997 404 640 2.8 5Star

Autobiography V8 $237,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 386 625 12.7 5Star

Autobio.V8 LWB $247,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 386 625 13.1 5Star

SV Autobio. V8 Dynamic $270,000 5 Auto Petrol V8/5000 416 700 12.8 5Star

LEXUS LX 4WD
Luxury-length Lexus LX570 (petrol) and Land Cruiser 200-based Lexus 450d retain
all of its Toyota donor’s legendary off-road ability while adding even more comfort,
luxury. Smart, stylish, sophisticated and both supremely comfortable on road as well
as impressively capable off it.

LEXUS LX PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY

LX 450d 4WD $160,400 7 Auto Diesel V8/4461 200 650 9.6 5Star

LX570 4WD $181,700 7 Auto Petrol V8/5663 270 530 14.4 5Star

MERCEDES-BENZ GLS 4WD

Massively spacious, M-B’s top-of-the-line seven-seater is luxurious, supremely
comfortable and packed with technology. Ride is superb on the road, with cutting
edge suspension and damping engineering, and all-wheel-drive versatility.

MERCEDES-BENZ GLS PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
GLS 400d 4Matic $168,500 7 Auto Diesel V6/2925 243 700 7.7 5Star

GLS AMG 63 4WD $242,900 7 Auto Petrol V8/5461 430 760 12.3 5Star

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 71
 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 EXTRA LARGE SUV

MERCEDES-BENZ G-CLASS 4WD

New, revamped G-Class (nee G-Wagen) has subtle styling changes on the outside and
major suspension revamp underneath. Three diff locks and low range gearing offer
the ultimate traction in rough terrain while now it is even more comfortable, safe and
refined for daily road use.

MERCEDES-BENZ G-class PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
AMG G 63 4WD $273,900 5 Auto Petrol V8/3982 430 850 13.1 5 Star
EXTRA LARGE SUV

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 200 4WD

Toyota’s unburstable twin-turbo V8 diesel engine powers the impressive and
luxurious Land Cruiser 200. Highly specced and supremely capable on and off the
road, the 200 Series is a comfortable, relaxed cruiser guaranteed to go the distance in
any conditions.

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 200 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm AVE. L/100km SAFETY
VX 4WD $115,990 8 Auto Diesel V8/4461 200 650 9.5 5 Star

VX Limited 4WD $129,990 8 Auto Diesel V8/4461 200 650 9.5 5 Star

72 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

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W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 73
 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 UTES

Kiwi new ‘car’ buyers love utes – in particular the
largely Thai-built turbo-diesel-engined double-cabs
which are so well-suited to the work-hard/play-hard
lifestyle so many of us apparently aspire to here
in NZ. Ford continues to lead the market with an
ever evolving range of, er, Rangers, Toyota has just
upgraded its Hilux and Isuzu and Mazda have just
launched their new joint venture twins the all-new
D-Max and BT-50. New metal from RAM, Jeep and
GM extend the market at the top-end but with the
latter killing off Holden it has meant the end of the
road for both the Colorado and its HSV cousin the
SportCat.

CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 4WD

Chevrolet has put over 100 years of truck building know-how into the Silverado
1500, now available in RHD courtesy specialist Aussie re-manufacturer, Walkinshaw
Automotive Group and General Motors’ new ‘Down Under’ division, GMSV. The
Silverado 1500 we are getting packs a hi-tech 6.2 litre Eco-Tec3 V8 engine, 10-speed
auto trans, choice of full or part-time 4WD plus a 4500kg (braked) maximum towing
capability. It’s a truck, says GMSV, that builds upon the legacy of some of the most
capable full-size pickups on the road.
UTES

CHEV SILVERADO PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
Silverado 1500 LTZ $123,900 5 Auto Petrol 8/6162 313 624 12 No data 750 – 4500

FORD RANGER 4WD

The standard by which all contemporary turbo-diesel utes must be judged. Rides
like an SUV, steers and handles like a sporty sedan yet tough, powerful, practical,
well-specced and with a muscular presence perfect for the current gung-ho mood
of the market. Ford’s Wildtrak models gain new engines and new transmissions while
Ranger Raptor continues to be the aspirational ute Ford intended it to be.

FORD RANGER PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
XL Single Cab/chassis $51,490 2 Auto 6 Diesel 5/3198 147 470 8.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
XL Super Cab wellside $58,490 2+ Auto 6 Diesel 5/3198 147 470 8.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
XL Double Cab c/c $57,490 5 Auto 6 Diesel 5/3198 147 470 8.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
XL Double Cab wellside $59,990 5 Auto 6 Diesel 5/3198 147 470 8.3/8.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
XLT Double Cab wellside $64,990 5 Auto 6 Diesel 5/3198 147 470 8.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
FX4 D/C w/s 2.0 bi–turbo $68,990 5 Auto 10 Diesel 4/1996 157 500 7.4 5 Star 750 – 3500
Wildtrak Double Cab wellside $72,490 5 Auto 6 Diesel 5/3198 147 470 8.9 5 Star 750 – 3500
Wildtrak D/C w/s 2.0 bi-turb $73,490 5 Auto 10 Diesel 4/1996 157 500 7.4 5 Star 750 – 3500
Ranger Raptor D/C w/s $85,490 5 Auto 10 Diesel 4/1996 157 500 8.2 5 Star 750 – 2500

GREAT WALL STEED 4WD

Having seen a mild facelift the current Steed is on run-out pending the arrival of an
all-new GWM-badged model in the New Year. That means trimmed down model
range and cut-to-the bone pricing.

GREAT WALL STEED PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
4x4 single cab c/c or w/s $20,990 – $21,990 2 Man 6 Diesel 4/1996 110 310 9.0 3 Star 750-1700
4x4 Double Cab $27,990 5 Man 6 Diesel 4/1996 110 310 9.0 3 Star 750-2000

74 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 ISUZU D-MAX 4WD
New from the ground up – and all the more impressive for it – Isuzu’s D-Max has
been transformed – from shy country kid to world-wise sophisticate back home and
ready to take on none other than ute sector market leader Ford. As well as significant
upgrades to the engine, chassis, suspension, in cabin NVH levels and its now sector-
leading suite of airbags and electronic safety aids across the new, expanded model
line-up there’s also an all-new range-topper the X-Terrain to take on Ford’s Ranger
Wildtrak and Toyota’s SR5 Cruiser.

ISUZU D-MAX 4WD PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
LX single cab/chassis 4x4 $52,990 – $54,990 2 M/A Diesel 4/2999 140 450 7.7/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
LX Spacecab/chassis 4x4 $55,990 – $57,990 2 M/A Diesel 4/2999 140 450 7.7/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
LX Double cab 4x4 $59,990 – $61,990 5 M/A Diesel 4/2999 140 450 7.7/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
LS-M Double cab 4x4 $61,990 – $63,990 5 M/A Diesel 4/2999 140 450 7.7/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
LS Space cab 4x4 $66,990 2 Auto Diesel 4/2999 140 450 8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
LS Double cab 4x4 $65,990 – $67,990 5 M/A Diesel 4/2999 140 450 7.7/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
X-Terrain Double Cab 4x4 $75,490 5 Auto Diesel 4/2999 140 450 8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500

UTES
LDV T60 4WD
LDV is a division of China’s largest automaker SAIC and introduced the T60 in 2018.
The T60 represents serious competition for established players in booming ute
market, thanks to built-tough ethos, feature-for-feature comfort and spec levels and
full five-star ANCAP safety rating across both DC and now the 4WD cab/chassis
model added to the line-up in 2020.

LDV T60 PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
T60 s/c c/c $31,038 2 Man Diesel 4/2776 110 360 8.8 5 Star 750 – 3000
T60 Elite 4x4 $34,488 – $36,788 5 M/A Diesel 4/2776 110 360 8.8 5 Star 750 – 3000
T60 Luxury 4x4 $39,088 – $41,388 5 Man Diesel 4/2776 110 360 8.8 5 Star 750 – 3000

JEEP GLADIATOR AWD

Something strikingly new from Jeep In 2020 was the arrival of the highly anticipated
Jeep Gladiator, timed to arrive as the New Zealand market was falling In love with
large ute-like things out of the US. Gladiator retains Jeep’s heritage aspect while deliv-
ering a modern, stylish daily driver

JEEP GLADIATOR PRICE SEATS TRANS. FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
Sport $79,990 5 Auto Petrol V6/3598 209 347 10.8 3Star 750 – 3000
Overland $89,990 5 Auto Petrol V6/3598 209 347 11.2 3Star 750 – 3000
Rubicon $92,990 5 Auto Petrol V6/3598 209 347 12.4 53Star 750 – 3000

MAHINDRA PIK UP
Relaunched her last year by new importer, Mahindra is back with its A-game, an immensely
practical and rugged utility which espouses all a working ute should be – including
being affordable. Made in India to answer global market needs, the Pik Up is an excellent
reintroduction to the Mahindra brand.

PIK UP PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING

Pik Up 4x4 S6 S cab/chassis $28,990 2 Man Diesel 4/2200 103 320 8.6 2-Star 750 – 2500
Pik Up 4x4 S6 D cab/chassis $31,989 5 Man Diesel 4/2200 103 320 8.8 2-Star 750 – 2500
Pik Up 4x4 S10 D cab Wellside $35,990 5 Man Diesel 4/2200 103 320 8.8 2-Star 750 – 2500

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 75
 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 UTES

MAZDA BT-50 4WD

And so, finally free of some of the constraints of their last JV (Joint Venture) with Ford
and its market-leading Ranger, Mazda launched its all new Isuzu D-Max-based TD DC
ute her in late November in very much ‘eyes-forward’ mode with nary a backward
glance. Mazda’s only direct contribution was to the way it looks. This time around, too,
the number of body types has been trimmed right down. Less apparently, is more.

MAZDA BT-50 PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
GSX D Cab w/s 4x4 $54,490 5 Auto Diesel 4/2999 140 450 8 5 Star 750 – 3500
GTX D Cab w/s 4x4 $58,490 5 Auto Diesel 4/2999 140 450 8 5 Star 750 – 3500
Limited D/C w/s 4x4 $60,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2999 140 450 8 5 Star 750 – 3500

MERCEDES-BENZ G300D 4WD

Mercedes-Benz tough truck is built to do the hard yards and based on a military-
spec cab chassis. The G Professional is powered by the three-litre turbo-diesel and
features three locking differentials to get it places even the wildlife fear to tread. Not
for the faint of heart.
UTES

MERCEDES-BENZ G PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING

G300D Professional $129,900 2 Auto Diesel 6/2987 136 400 9.9 No data 750 – 2210

MITSUBISHI TRITON 4WD

With a major overhaul to the front end plus incremental upgrades to the suspension,
brakes, transmission and 4WD system in 2019, Mitsubishi not only future-proofed
its Triton line it created a ’bang-for-buck’ legacy which local buyers lapped up. That
legend continues today with hi-tech safety-spec across all models, a move to auto
transmissions for all 4WD models plus regular special offers on pricing (reflected here).

MITSUBISHI TRITON PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
4WD GLX single cab/c $37,250 2 Auto Diesel 4/2442 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3000
4WD GLX Clubcab c/c $39,490 2 Auto Diesel 4/2442 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3000
4WD GLX Clubcab w/s $41,990 2 Auto Diesel 4/2442 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3000
4WD GLX Doublecab c/c $40,490 5 Auto Diesel 4/2422 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3500
4WD GLX Doublecab w/s $41,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2422 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3500
4WD GLX-R D/C w/s $42,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2422 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3500
4WD VRX D/C w/s $51,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2422 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3500
4WD w/s Black Edition $46,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2422 135 437 8.6 5 Star 750 – 3500

NISSAN NAVARA 4WD

It’s a case of another comprehensive set of upgrades for Nissan’s Navara, the first
local turbo-diesel double-cab ute to get coil spring suspension front and rear. Broad
model range over single and twin turbo 2.3 litre engines and aggressive pricing policy
makes sure the current NP300 model ticks all the key consumer boxes, while new
look and features keep things fresh for 2021 and beyond.

NISSAN NAVARA PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
RX Single cab/c 4x4 $42,990 2 Man Diesel 4/2298 120 403 6.4 5 Star 750 – 3500
RX King cab/c 4x4 $50,990 4 Man Diesel 4/2298 120 403 6.6 5 Star 750 – 3500
RX DCab w/s 4x4 $54,490 5 Auto Diesel 4/2298 120 403 7.1 5 Star 750 – 3500
SL DCab w/s 4x4 $54,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2298 140 450 7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
ST King cab w/s $54,990 – $56,990 4 M/A Diesel 4/2298 140 450 7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
ST DCab w/s 4x4 $49,990 – $51,990 5 M/A Diesel 4/2298 140 450 6.5/7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
450 DCab w/s 4x4 $57,990 – $58,990 5 M/A Diesel 4/2298 140 450 6.5/7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
ST-X DC ab w/s 4x4 $64, 590 – $66,790 5 M/A Diesel 4/2298 140 450 6.5/7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
ST-X King cab w/s $65,590 4 Auto Diesel 4/2298 140 450 7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
N-Trek Warrior w/s $76,990 5 Auto Diesel 4/2298 140 450 7.0 5 Star 750 – 3500

76 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 RAM 4WD
Born in the USA but converted to RHD across the Tasman for ‘good old boys’ here
and in Oz these high-riding 4WD RAM Trucks are a contractor’s dream come true.
Tough enough to get to any work site, big enough inside to hold a board meeting and
able to tow 4500kgs, no wonder they are proving so popular here.

RAM PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING

1500 Express Quad Cab $94,990 5 Auto 8 Petrol 8/5654 291 556 12.2 n/a 750 – 4500
1500 Express Crew Cab $104,990 5 Auto 8 Petrol 8/5654 291 556 12.2 n/a 750 – 4500
1500 Laramie Crew Cab $119,990 5 Auto 8 Petrol 8/5700 291 556 12.2 n/a 750 – 4500
1500 Warlock Crew Cab $119,990 5 Auto 8 Petrol 8/5654 291 556 12.2 n/a 750 – 4500
2500 Laramie Crew Cab $169,990 6 Auto 6 Diesel 6/6690 276 1084 10.6 n/a 750 – 6942
2500 Laramie C/c Sport $174,990 6 Auto 6 Diesel 6/6690 276 1084 10.6 n/a 750 – 6942

SSANGYONG RHINO 4WD

UTES
Rhino is successor to the Actyon Sports Utility distinguished by the fact that it
is available in either short or long tub form and has a five-link coil sprung rear
suspension system. Of the five models in the current NZ line-up, three feature part-
time 4WD drivetrains.

SSANGYONG RHINO PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
Rhino Sport 4WD man $40,238 5 Man 6 Diesel 4/2157 133 420 7.9 n/a 750 – 3500
Rhino Sport 4WD auto $42,538 5 Auto 6 Diesel 4/2157 133 420 7.9 n/a 750 – 3500
Rhino SPR 4WD auto $50,013 5 Auto 6 Diesel 4/2157 133 420 8.6 n/a 750 – 3500

TOYOTA HILUX 4WD

Another mid model cycle upgrade has given Toyota’s iconic Hilux just the boost it
needed with a welcome increase in both power and torque, a new, tougher, more
aggressive look, plus the latest version of Toyota’s Safety Sense suite of electronic
driver aids; everything – in other words - the modern ute buyer could want, including
a comprehensive factory-backed accessory line, as well as an all-new limited edition
‘hero’ model called the Mako.

TOYOTA HILUX 4WD PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
SR single/cab 4x4 c/c $44,990 2 Auto 6 Diesel 4/2755 150 500 8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
SR Extra Cab 4x4 c/c $44,990 – $46,990 4 M/A Diesel 4/2755 150 420/500 7.8/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
SR D/C 4x4 c/c $45,990 – $48,490 5 M/A Diesel 4/2775 150 420/500 7.8/8.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
SR D/C 4x4 w/s $47,990 – $49,990 5 M/A Diesel 4.2775 150 420/500 7.4/7.9 5 Star 750 – 3500
SR5 D/C 4x4 w/s $51,990 – $53,990 5 M/A Diesel 4/2775 150 420/500 7.4/7/9 5 Star 750 – 3500
SR5 Cruiser D/C 4x4 w/s $58,990 5 Auto 6 Diesel 4/2775 150 500 7.9 5 Star 750 – 3500
Hilux Mako $79,990 5 Auto 6 Diesel 4/2775 150 500 7.9 5 Star 750 – 3500

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 70 4WD UTE

Back with a flourish in significantly updated and uprated form iconic Land Cruiser is
one tough truck. Turbo-diesel V8 is a thing of torque-laden beauty while chassis and
electric driver aid upgrades mean big ‘Cruiser is as user-friendly as a Hilux.

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
Single cab/c LT & LX $68,000 – $75,990 2 Man Diesel 8/4461 151 430 10.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
Double cab/c LT & LX $72,000 – $79,990 4 Man Diesel 8/4461 151 430 10.7 5 Star 750 – 3500
Wagon LT & LX $78,000 – $79,990 2/5 Man Diesel 8/4461 151 430 10.7 5 Star 750 – 3500

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 77
 BUYERS GUIDE 2021 UTES

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK 4MOTION

Firm favourite of urban-dwelling ute buyers, Amarok is big, beautifully built and very
capable on and off the road. 4Motion eight-speed auto is more than a match for dual-
range transmissions and new V6 diesel is exceptional.

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK PRICE SEATS TRANS FUEL CYL./CC kW Nm L/100km SAFETY TOWING
4WD Comfortline TDI $63,000 5 Auto Diesel 4/1968 132 420 8.5 5 Star 750 – 3000
4WD V6 Sportline TDi $75,000 5 Auto Diesel 6/2967 165 550 8.9 5 Star 750 – 3500
4WD V6 Darkside TDI $79,000 5 M/A Diesel 6/2967 165 550 9.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
4WD V6 Aventura TDI $90,000 5 Auto Diesel 6/2967 165 550 9.0 5 Star 750 – 3500
UTES

78 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021

 TRADING POST

HAVE A
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THE ORIGINAL 30 SECOND TENT

SECONDS TO PITCH. SECOND TO NONE.

Due to its modular design, you can add

two or more tents side by side or awning
to awning. If you own a motorhome,
campervan or a caravan then this tent
provides an instant extra room which can
be freestanding or easily attached to a
sail track.
The OZTENT is also the perfect tent for
fishing or boating. Spend more time fishing
and boating and less time erecting your
tent.The OZTENT gives you time to relax
and enjoy the great outdoors because that
is the very reason you are out there.You
won’t regret the convenience, durability
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ÎMade from waterproof rip-stop polycotton canvas.

OZTENT chairs and ÎHeavy duty, waterproof heat sealed tub floor.
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year warranty. ÎOZTENT also has a range of camping furniture, screen rooms and beach shelters.

shopping visit our website: oztentnz.co.nz Phone us: 0800 109 933
Come and see us at:
Now available at Rotorua Heating & Outdoors, 3 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua 83-85 Bourke Street, Palmerston North

W W W. N Z 4 W D . C O . N Z 79
TAILPIECE
Snow… in summer
Truth be told I should have used these Paul Richards pics
earlier in the year when the snow you see in them was still
fresh. Its only now though that I find myself with a spare
page and the email message Paul sent through with his
shots. To whit: “We went the other direction today (west
from his home in Geraldine) and drove down to Tekapo
then up Lilybank Road as far as the Macaulay River crossing
where Raewyn and I had lunch off the tailgate. Gusting
NorWester though coming down the Godley River valley
so didn’t stay too long but great scenery and well worth
the trip.
80 NZ4WD ANNUAL 2021
The top shot shows our Mazda BT-50 parked on the
bank where the Macaulay River comes in from the right,
the Godley River is straight ahead and Lilybank Station is
across this flood plain through the ford.
“The second pic was taken on the way back down
Lilybank Road. Motuariki Island is in the foreground,
Tekapo village is to the left of the Island and Mount John
Observatory is behind it.
“Finally, the third shot is looking back up Lake Tekapo
with Lilybank Station and the Godley River in the vee of the
mountains at the far end of the lake above our BT-50.”
 “I have raced on other brands of tyres but haven’t found anything else that can offer as much
traction as the GT Radial Komodo. Whether racing, going off-road or simply from A to B give
them a go, you won’t be disappointed.”
Bryan Chang

GT Savero Komodo Extreme GT Sav

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Photo taken by Mark Baker