Now this is a big American 8 seat 4WD.

It’s the wagon version of the Silverado 1500 Pickup. I mentioned it is big didn’t I.

It’s a true 4WD but no one will ever really take this too far off road.

As a family wagon the closest you can get to the interior space is a people mover.

The front seats are especially comfortable, heated and cooled.

The middle row seats have a slide and recline function. They have a different system called LATC – lower anchor and tethers for children. This has a similar function to an Isofix system but different enough. They also have top tether points.

Because it is large, there is plenty of room for three baby seats in the middle row.

Access to the third row seats  is by forward folding the middle seat. The third row seats can be folded and raised electronically.

Access to the cabin is helped by a fold out step which retracts after you are inside.

Even though its big, it doesn’t feel like that when driving. The big V8 petrol engine simply hums along, and it’s packed with luxury features to make the family relax.

However, with a price of somewhere near $175,000 plus the usual costs, it’s not for everyone. But I absolutely loved driving it for the week. Its Mum life upgraded.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Yukon Denali   – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Yukon Denali – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Motoring Minute Video

Buyers could also look at:

While there isn’t anything really like it in Australia. Buyers of the Yukon Denali could also look at the following: Toyota LandCruiser, Nissan Patrol, Land Rover Defender, Land Rover Discovery, Kia Carnival

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post Is the Yukon Denali a good SUV for a family appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The Denali is a genuine 8 seat 4WD. Its simply huge. Bigger than the LandCruiser of Patrol.

However, from the outside it’s deceptively styled to hide its bulk. Inside its apparent just how much space there is. Like the Silverado, off which it is based, there is plenty of room for front occupants. The middle and third row seats also will fit adults easily, but maybe two not three in the back row.

Its also packed with almost every conceivable luxury feature you could imagine.

Powered by a 6.2-litre V8 petrol engine. It provides some 313kW of power and 624Nm of torque. This drives all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Denali has selectable driving modes including ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’, ‘Off-road’ and ‘Tow’ and an electronic limited-slip differential is standard.

It can get thirsty though.

While it has sound 4WD credentials, I for one would never take it very far off the black top. Those 24 inch rims and thin bits of rubber may be good for handling, but ride suffers. They wouldn’t last very long off road.

This is truly a one of a kind vehicle here in Australia. Its big, brash, and bold and I love it.

The Yukon Denali is priced from around $175,000 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Yukon Denali   – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Yukon Denali – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers could also look at:

While there isn’t anything really like it in Australia. Buyers of the Yukon Denali could also look at the following: Toyota LandCruiser, Nissan Patrol, Land Rover Defender, Land Rover Discovery, Kia Carnival

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post Yukon Denali 6.2L V8 2025 drive appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I drove the top spec model last week, the Crusade. While there have been little updates along the way it is due for an overhaul as its starting to show its age inside a bit.

Inside Toyota have done a good job of making the Fortuner Crusade as up market as possible, but underneath you can feel the HiLux origins. That’s not necessarily bad.

It comes with the 2.8L turbo diesel engine from the Toyota HiLux and Prado. This has  available a handy 150kW of power and 500 Nm of torque from as low as 1600 rpm.

This delivers power to all four wheels through a six speed AT and select on demand dual range 4WD system .

Fortuner Crusade sits in a competitive segment and while it has reasonable performance, and excellent 4WD capability, it lacks a little in the towing department at only 3100kg.

Mind you, unless you are towing something heavy that doesn’t limit many people.

Priced from around $53,700 through to around $66,700 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’M Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Fortuner Crusade HERE

 TO LISTEN TO THE Fortuner Crusade RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Fortuner Crusade buyers could also look at:

Mid-sized 4WD wagons have become more prevalent in recent years.

Buyers could look at the Isuzu MU-X, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, SsangYong Rexton, Jeep Wrangler, INEOS Grenadier

Some other Fortuner Crusade Articles

• Toyota Fortuner Crusade 4WD 2021 Review
• Toyota Fortuner – a bit of 4×4 and a bit of SUV
• Toyota Fortuner 2020 Update
• 2018 Toyota Review
• Toyota claims three gongs in OzRoamer awards
• 2017 Toyota Fortuner GXL 4WD Review

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Listeners can hear Motoring Minute segments around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners.

You can also find Motoring Minute segments syndicated through other news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post We drive the Toyota Fortuner Crusade for 2024 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Not because we were heading off road, but because we were doing lots of long-distance driving.

We went from Sydney to Wollongong, back to Sydney to Nelson Bay, Grafton then the Glasshouse Mountains and back again.

Overall, we drove some two thousand five hundred kilometres over a few weeks and here are my thoughts.

The MU-X LS-T is spacious. It fitted all our luggage and presents, food and other gear easily.

When we went for day trips it fitted five adults in comfort.

It’s just so relaxing to drive long distances. One day we drove over 850km and arrived feeling relatively fresh.

There is more than enough performance for highway cruising and its economical. We averaged 7.7 litres per 100km for the full trip.

The MU-X LS-T also comes with a few practical features like wireless smart phone connectivity, and considering we drove through torrential rain in southern Queensland the 4WD and safety features were comforting.

We all know the Isuzu MU-X is a great 4WD and towing vehicle, but its also a practical and comfortable family SUV for everyday use.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE ISUZU MU-X LS-T RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute segments are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners.

Segments are also they are syndicated through other news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu MU-X LS-T drives the family for Christmas holidays appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Given the hype around Utes and larger SUVs, the SsangYong models can sometimes be overlooked.

That’s a shame as both the Rexton and Musso are pretty good. We have driven both on many occasions and they always impress us.

The Musso has perhaps the best ride on road of any Ute around now. It’s comfortable, practical, and aimed at the more urban based adventurer.

The Rexton is a large seven seat 4WD that rides more like a luxury SUV. It has true 4WD capability.

SsangYong Musso and Rexton provide a viable and value-based alternative to the mainstream brands for buyers that wan the practicality of a Ute or seven seat 4WD without necessarily wanting to delve deep into the harshest regions of Australia.

You get a lot for your money with these vehicles.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE SSANGYONG CANCER RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

SsangYong Musso (Recommended Driveway)

SsangYong Rexton Pricing (Recommended Driveway)

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Listeners can hear Motoring Minute radio segments around Australia every day. This is on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. I

Motoring Minute is also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also part of Overdrive Radio Program. Listeners can find this weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post SsangYong 2024 Rexton and Musso model details appeared first on Motoring Minute.

A few weeks ago I had the X Dynamic HSE D300 model. Top spec with my favourite engine. I wasn’t disappointed.

The model I drove was priced from around $120,000 plus options to take it up to around $134,609 plus the usual costs. Now this isn’t something I ever though I would be saying, but against what else you can get as a large 4WD wagon, that’s excellent value.

The Defender drives on road like a premium SUV, almost like a Range Rover Sport. Off road it will match it with the mighty the best 4WDs around.

Inside the levels of comfort and luxury are more like a premium SUV, not a robust 4WD.

The HSE model we drove had the towing pack, Family pack and air suspension options as well as the off road pack and some really cool 20 inch dark alloys.

The Defender also fits me like no other 4WD or car. Its like it was made specifically for me with my driver position possibly the best I have ever sat in.

The in line six cylinder diesel turbo engine has 221kW of power and a hefty 650Nm of torque from as low as 1500rpm. This makes for relaxed cruising as well as excellent control off road and effortless towing.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

More details on the Defender X Dynamic HSE D300 can be found HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE DEFENDER HSE D300 RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Land Rover Defender X Dynamic HSE D300 Video 

Defender 110 HSE D300 final thoughts

As I have mentioned on many occasions the Defender is my favourite 4WD. It just pips the LandCruiser 300 series. That’s saying something as I’ve owned Cruisers in the past.

The D300 is my pick of the engine choices. It has more than enough power and torque for every situation. Its smooth and economical as well

The Defender rides and handles on road like a Range Rover Sport. Off road its matches it with the best and makes 4WD work ridiculously easy. Sand driving is effortless, forest trails are like a smooth dirt road and the rough stuff is covered without fuss.

The Defender is currently the best value 4WD on the market.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post We drive the Defender 110 X Dynamic HSE D300 4WD appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The new Silverado 1500 comes in two models, aimed at two different sub sections of the market.

It comes in the LTZ Premium and the more 4WD orientated ZR2 models.

Both have the same engine/transmission combination. Both have the same cavernous interior space and tub. The major differences are in the details, bling, and functionality.

The LTZ Premium could be an alternative for premium SUVs and 4WD wagons. The ZR2 is definitely aimed at buyers that are more adventurous and want to do some serious 4WD work.

They come with a 6.2L V8 petrol engine and a 10 Sp Automatic Transmission with dual range 4WD capability. They will tow up to 4500kg depending on the model.

Pricing for the latest Silverado 1500 is from $128,000 for the LTZ Premium and the Silverado ZR2 is available from $133,000 plus the usual on road costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE SILVERADO 1500 RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Readers can find a more detailed launch review HERE

Some more Silverado articles  

• What makes the Silverado good for towing and off road.
• Chevrolet Silverado 2023 models for towing and 4WD touring
• GMSV Release Details of MY2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Range
• Chevrolet brings new plant onstream before 5000th Silverado
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500 MY23 Range
• 2022 Chevrolet Silverado for towing a horse float
• 2017 HSV Chevrolet Silverado Announced

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post We drive the new Chev Silverado 1500 at launch appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The latest version, updated late in 2022, comes with a few cosmetic upgrades, but the key change is especially beneficial for those that use their MU-X to tow.

The MU-X is an ideal tow vehicle, with low torque delivery and a stable platform allowing towing of up to 3500kg.

The latest version now automatically disables Blind Spot Monitor and the Rear Cross Traffic Alert when it detects a properly attached trailer plug. This removes a common problem with modern 4WDs with their additional safety features, where these alerts can be constantly set off when towing a large boat or caravan.

Cars like the Isuzu MU-X are all about lifestyle. This was again made clear to me when I drove onto the beach at sunrise for some pictures and with only a single fisherman trying his luck, I had the beach to myself.

The MU-X allows you to escape and find peace and solitude. Their marketing catch phrase is apt. Go Your Own Way.

Driving along a deserted beach at sunrise is my happy place.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

You can read all about the 2023 update features HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE ISUZU MU-X RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Isuzu MU-X LS-T Video

Quick Isuzu MU-X LS-T thoughts

• The MU-X is still one of the best on-road riding 4WDs around.
• As well as one of the best 4WD Towing options.
• Off road it will pretty much hold its own against any other 4WD.
• This side of a LandCruiser or Defender, the MU-X is my go-to option for towing.
• The updates which turn off the BSM and RCTA while towing improve that rating.
• The delivery of torque allows for easy and relaxed cruising even when towing.
• The flip side is that it’s no sport 4WD though.
• Isuzu have really improved the seating comfort over the years, the latest are especially so.
• Additional electronic lumbar support for my ageing back is greatly appreciated.
• As is the recent heated seats.
• So, you may guess that driving the MU-X is very comfortable.
• I would like to see a LST five seat version.
• There are a few little things that niggle though
  • The DTE reading is haphazard and inconsistent. It will fluctuate 100km in the space of 20km up and down again.
  • This is a common issue with Isuzu, not so much of an issue when you know your vehicle, but a trap for first time towers.
  • There is no charging tray for wireless phone charging.
  • Im not the biggest fan of the top spec models window washers, I prefer the old-fashioned spray versions, rather than water dripping from the wipers.

Isuzu MU-X LS-T Final thoughts

Its obvious that I’m a big fan of the MU-X, and this is for good reason

It amongst the best in class for on road ride and handling, towing, 4WD capability, safety, and comfort.

It remains good value even with price creep over the years.

You can but a Isuzu MU-X and a decent off road camper and still have change from what you would pay for a 300 series LandCruiser.

Instead of the MU-X LS-T Also look at.

The Isuzu MU-X now sits in a competitive segment. Especially the premium end.

True dual range 4WDs are popular again.

Buyers could also look at the Toyota Fortuner, SsangYong Rexton, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Ford Everest, Toyota Prado, Jeep Wrangler.

If you are looking for a more AWD SUV style, you could look at Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Outback XT, Land Rover Discovery Sport,

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Updated Isuzu MU-X LS-T 4WD 2023 Review appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Everest comes with two engines, the familiar 2.0L Bi Turbo or the new (to ford) 3.0L V6 that is so popular in the VW Amarok. Both come with a smooth 10 Sp sports AT and dual range 4WD.

The Everest Trend comes with an impressive list of standard features such as leather steering wheel, leather seats with electronic adjustment for the driver, 12 inch central touchscreen.

The front two seat rows are comfortable and I managed to plonk my bear like frame in the back seat when we went to look at Christmas lights.

The third row seats are tiny and access is tight.

We drove the 2.0L version which is the only engine option for the Trend. This has 154kW and 500Nm which is about the same as the HiLux. It drives smoothly thanks to the 10 speed transmission and has enough get up and go when needed. Importantly the peak torque is at 1750 rpm which allows for relaxed cruising.

Everest will tow 3500kg and is relatively economical as well.

The Everest Trend is priced from $65,290 for the 4WD version, plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

with an

TO LISTEN TO THE EVEREST TREND RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Everest Trend specific details

(incremental to Ambiente)

Exterior

• Privacy glass on rear windows
• Power liftgate (no handsfree)
• Auto power fold mirrors with heater & puddle lamps
• Wheels 18-inch Alloy Wheels & matching spare

Interior

• Leather accented seats
• 7-seats standard
• 8-way power driver seat
• Leather wrapped steering wheel
• Floor mats (Driver + Passenger)
• 2nd upper glove box in lieu of open shelf
• 12-inch Colour Touchscreen

Engine and Transmission

• 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (inc Stop Start)
• 10-speed automatic
• Auto Shifter
• 4×2 conventional mechanical
• 4×4 e-Shifter
• Off-road screen (4×4 model only)
• Selectable Drive Modes
• Push Button 4×2
• Rotary Dial 4×4 (Additional off-road modes – Sand, Mud / Ruts)

Some quick Everest thoughts

• The new Everest brings a completely fresh design that is appealing
• Ford is the latest manufacturer to move towards the vertical central screen that mirrors a smart phone and it works well.
• 18 inch tyres on nice looking alloys is practical if you are looking for genuine off road tyres.
• The balance between appointments and price seems spot on for the Trend.
• Off road the Everest is at home.
• On sand it simply almost floated.
• On road the ride and handling has improved, the suspension is a little harsh over some of what our governments call roads though.
• On the freeway it cruised quietly and effortlessly
• Off road its better
• The driver instrument layout is a little different and takes getting used to but when you do it flows.
• Front row seats are comfortable
• Middle row big enough for my bear like frame to fit comfortably, but the seat sqaub is a little flat.
• Third row seats are tight and access is painful.

Also Look At

The Medium 4WD Wagon segment has been popular over the last few years and is extremely competitive.

Perhaps you could look at Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, SsangYong Rexton, Isuzu MU-X and Toyota Prado

If your tastes go more to the AWD SUV direction, look at Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Pathfinder.

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Our Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post Ford Everest Trend 2.0L 4WD 2023 Review appeared first on Motoring Minute.