The D-Max Blade is aimed at more adventurous buyers that like to explore far from  normal roads.

I’ve had one for a few weeks now and like all D-Max  Utes it does everything I ask of it without fuss. It’s so easy to live with every day.

Blade specific additions include:

• a 29mm lift, courtesy of new 35mm MTV twin-tube suspension tuned for local conditions.
• Larger wheel and tyre package of 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain
• 0mm steel bash plate, with integrated, rated, dual recovery points
• Integrated 112-Watt lightbar,
• Side steps and tub sports bar
• Lots of Blade bling
• And more.

Overall, the D-Max Blade looks pretty cool. Especially with the range of colours available.

It comes with the standard engine and transmission combination, which is good, but more power and torque would have been appreciated.

Cruising on the motorway, the Blade drives better than you would expect with less tyre noise and better steering response.

On dirt roads it simply goes about its business without fuss. On sand it excels.

The suspension is compliant and responsive.

The integrated nature of the addition’s shines. That’s what makes it worthwhile.

Pricing is from $80,900 its expensive but comparable to doing everything yourself.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Previous Motoring Minute Reviews

• Isuzu D-Max Blade revisited 2025
• We drive the Isuzu D-Max Blade for 2025
• Isuzu D-Max Blade 4WD Ute first drive

Readers can find more details about the D-Max BLADE – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max BLADE – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max BLADE – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

The D-MAX BLADE has strong competition with:

• Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior 
• Toyota HiLux Rogue
• Mazda BT-50 SP
• Ford Ranger Tremor 

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This is a special edition, limited to 1000 vehicles.

Key highlights for the Wildtrak include :

• 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine
• Full-time 4WD
• Gloss black ‘H-Bar’ front bumper.
• Gloss black grille bar accented by signature Ignite Orange “nostrils.”
• Matrix LED headlamps with auto-levelling and dynamic bending
• Power-folding third row
• Signature Ignite Orange accents and
• 20-inch alloy wheels, finished in black with Ignite Orange inserts, wrapped in all-season tyres.
• Leather-accented¹seats featuring WILDTRAK lettering and contrast Ignite Orange stitching.
• A panoramic roof with a power blind and
• ambient interior lighting as standard.

Buyers can also choose from three options.

• Prestige Paint: $750
• Premium Towing Pack: $2,500
• 18-inch Alloy Wheels with All-Terrain Tyres: No Cost Option (NCO)

Ford says the Everest Wildtrak is for “ customers seeking an adventurous road presence without compromising on capability or technology.”

I do have to say the Wildtrak does look good. It certainly stands out.

Production for the Everest Wildtrak commences in May and orders can now be placed on the Ford website.

Pricing is from $79,990 plus the usual costs. I guess it all depends on how much value buyers place on visual aspects of their vehicles. My guess is that the special edition will be sold out quickly.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Everest Wildtrak – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Ford Everest Wildtrak – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Here are my top three reasons why im such a big fan of the D-Max X-Terrain

First, it looks good. Especially in the Sunstone Orange colour I had. That contrasting with black grill, side steps, sports bar and tub roller cover really stands out. The matte grey 18 inch alloys also add to the appeal.

Second is the practical performance capability. The 3.0L turbo diesel engine is reliable, robust and will last for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. With 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque, it’s under stressed. This torque comes in from a low 1600 rpm.

This is combined with the 6sp Automatic transmission, 3500 kg tow rating and select on the go 4WD system.

There are more powerful Utes available, but the Isuzu 3.0L allows for easy driving no matter what the situation.

Third is the standard safety features. The D-Max was the first with a comprehensive suite of safety features across the range. They are still class leading.

Over the years I driven the D-Max X-Terrain in almost every situation you could think of. And every time the overall impression was that it’s so easy to live with and does everything without fuss.

Yes, the Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine, especially in the X-Terrain specification.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max X-Terrain – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max X-Terrain – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max X-Terrain – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

Buyers  could look at :   Kia Tasman,  Ford Ranger Tremor, Toyota HiLux Rogue, Nissan Navara Pro 4-X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR.

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It’s a brand-new model, and it really stands out on the road. The front is sleek, while the back has more of a boxy shape. I actually really like this look—and it turns out that boxy rear is super practical too.

There are three different versions to choose from, with the top model offering either six or seven seats.

You can also pick between two engines: a 2.5L turbo petrol or a 1.6L turbo petrol hybrid. Personally, I’d go for the hybrid—it’s a great mix of power for family road trips, while still being fuel-efficient for everyday mum life.

Inside, the Santa Fe feels really spacious and comfy. The front seats are lovely, but it’s the back that really shines for mums. The rear doors open nice and wide, making it much easier to get a baby seat in and out—or gently place a sleeping bub without too much hassle (a big win!).

It also comes with ISOFIX and top tether points for both the second and third row seats. So, you’ve got that extra peace of mind when it comes to safety.

Like most SUVs this size, the third row is better suited for occasional use rather than everyday seating, especially for older kids or adults.

We will chat more about the Sant Fe next week.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

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This is the top model in the range and comes with a host of external styling features as well as internal comfort upgrades.

Apart from some bling the main exterior difference from the Limited is the 20 inch alloy wheels and tyres. These look great, if not that practical for off road work.

Inside its like sitting in your loungeroom. Front seats are incredibly comfortable with

• highlight stitching, heating and ventilation,
• massage function,
• multiple electronic adjustments
• as well as 4 way lumbar support.

With electronic steering wheel adjustment finding the perfect driving position is easy.

Rear seats are designed for someone like me – larger than the average bear to sit in space and comfort. In fact, you can easily fit three of me across.

Powered by a 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6  petrol  Hybrid engine that provides a handy combined output of 326kW of power and 790Nm of torque. This drive through a 10-speed sports automatic transmission and part time 4WD. It’s rated to tow 4500kg and does with ease.

Driving the Tundra around town is simple, but it does feel big in tight carparks. On the motorway it cruises effortlessly. On dirt roads and the beach, it performs without fuss.

Pricing for the Tundra Platinum is from around $173,000 plus the usual costs and that’s expensive.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

The full Tundra Platinum review can be found HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Tundra Platinum – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Tundra Platinum – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Toyota Tundra Platinum  – buyers could look at:

There is of course the Ford F-150, Ram 1500 and Silverado 1500.

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Coming in a Command Grey exterior colour it certainly looks the part of a rugged 4WD.

Powered by the 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine that provides 184kW of power and 600Nm of torque.

This drives through a 10 speed sports automatic transmission , full time 4WD system with dual range gearing. This is a smooth and powerful combination with peak torque at a reasonable 1750 rpm. Towing is rated at 3500 kg, and the Tremor does that with ease. Off road this engine transmission allows for complete control in tricky situations.

Add to that the suspension upgrade with  Bilstein® Position-Sensitive Dampers, new springs, and General Grabber AT3 All-Terrain Tyres. This  provides 26mm of additional ground clearance.

The result is improved articulation and composed ride and handling over all surfaces. The Everest Tremor simply glides over forest trails and beach work is a breeze.

When the trail gets more difficult the Everest Tremor has Rock Crawl Drive Mode: that optimises traction and momentum on loose and rocky surfaces.

External additions include.

• honeycomb grille design with auxiliary LED lamps,
• a steel bash plate,
• heavy-duty side steps,
• and signature Tremor badging

There are a couple of additional option packs to enhance the performance even more.

Priced from around $79,000 plus the usual costs the Everest Tremor is a worthy addition to the range for adventurous buyers.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Ford Everest Tremor – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Ford Everest Tremor – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Ford Everest Tremor – Buyers could also look at:

Competition on the mid to large 4WD segment is tight .

Buyers of the Ford Everest Tremor could look at : Toyota Prado Altitude, Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain, Lexus GX 550 Overtrail, Land Rover Discovery, Land Rover Defender,  Jeep Wrangler,

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Well, BYD, hoping to expand the appeal have just announced two additional models.

A trade ready Shark 6 Dynamic Cab-Chassis and a new range-topping Shark 6 Performance pickup.

These will sit alongside the existing Shark 6 Premium pickup.

The designers expanded the line-up to meet the needs of trade, fleet, and Aussie families.

They offer superior Dual Mode (DM) Super Hybrid performance, improved all-wheel drive capability, and refined on-road comfort.

Ironman is developing an optional tray for the trade ready cab chassis.

The new 2.0-litre turbo DM Super Hybrid in the Shark 6 Performance boosts total system power and torque to 350kW and 700Nm, respectively. That will allow a 3500kg towing rating.

Shark 6 customers benefit from three intelligent driving modes.

• EV Pure Electric Mode: the petrol engine is switched off.

• HEV Series Mode: the petrol engine does not drive the wheels. Instead, it acts like a portable power station.
• HEV Parallel Mode: The motors and the petrol engine work together in harmony to drive the wheels at the same time.

With 6.6kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability and multiple 230V outlets (one in-cabin, three in the tub) plus a V2L adaptor adding two more sockets, Shark 6 can power tools, appliances and camping gear on the go.

Pricing is from $55,900 through to $62,900 plus the usual costs.

This s a Motoring Minute

Im  Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the BYD Shark 6  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE BYD Shark 6 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Driven by the need to meet the draconian NVES rules in Australia, a few brands are now offering PHEV Utes.

The JAC Hunter PHEV is based on the T9 Dual Cab Ute.

Powered by a  powerful plug-in hybrid petrol-electric engine. It  combines an efficient all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This has front and rear electric motors and  delivers 385kW of power and 1000Nm of torque.

On paper those figures are substantial. But recent history has shown us that in PHEVs that doesn’t always translate to real word driveability.

JAC is targeting an electric-only driving range of at least 100km* from Hunter’s state-of-the-art lithium-iron phosphate battery pack.

This will allow reasonable range for daily drives.

Also available is a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system. Allowing owners to power tools, appliances, and even provide emergency backup power from the vehicle’s battery.

As well as an extensive localised testing regime and suspension tuning, the JAC Hunter comes with front and rear differential locks alongside five off-road drive modes.

Inside there is a 10.4-inch digital touchscreen and infotainment system. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. For the driver there is a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster.

Reservations for the JAC Hunter PHEV are available from 5^th of May, with vehicles arriving in dealerships from mid-2026.

For the first 1000 orders there is a free home charger on delivery of their Hunter.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the JAC Hunter PHEV  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE JAC Hunter PHEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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The entry level work Ute is the GLX. Its available in single, club cab and dual cab versions, as well as tray back and pickup models. I drove the dual cab chassis pickup 4WD version recently.

The GLX is a workhorse yet well equipped with practical features.

I am a fan of the new front grill design and interior fit out. Recent models have also reduced some of the intrusive safety features allowing for simpler selection to turn them off.

Having wireless smart phone connectivity is handy as is the long list of standard safety features. Rubber floor mats and hard wearing fabric seats are appropriate.

Powered by a 2.4L bi-turbo diesel engine that provides 150 kW of power and 470Nm of torque from 1500 rpm.

This drives through a six speed AT and Mitsubishi’s simple yet effective Easy Select 4WD system.

Towing is rated at 3500kg and payload for the dual cab tray back is a handy 1200kg. To manage this the Triton GLX retains the ‘heavy-duty’ 4-leaf rear suspension arrangement.

With this suspension, the Triton GLX can be a touch rough riding when empty but handles a heavy load with ease. It’s ideal for towing, heavy duty work and off road recreation.

Pricing for the GLX models ranges from $37,090 through to $51,640 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE. 

Readers can find more details about the Mitsubishi Triton GLX  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Mitsubishi Triton GLX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mitsubishi Triton GLX – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Mitsubishi Triton GLX are in good company. There is a LOT to choose from.

Potential choices could be Mazda BT-50 ,  KGM Musso, FOTON Tunland, GWM Cannon, Mitsubishi Triton GLX, Nissan Navara SL,

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