Mind you it’s still priced at around $76,000 plus the usual costs.

The workmate comes with the vinyl seat trim, which I prefer to the fabric of the GXL.

It also comes with wind up windows, which are ok. What I have difficulty in accepting is no reverse camera, which in a Ute this size is a problem. Also, the ridiculous manual. exterior mirrors. These are always getting knocked in car parks or become loose and are a pain to adjust.

What is good is the new automatic version of the 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine. I know there are a lot of diehard V8 supporters out there, as I was. But the modified HiLux engine is better in almost every aspect.

The workmate has a huge tray and about a 1200kg payload along with 3500 kg towing capacity.

Off road its still awesome but does miss out on the front and rear diff locks.

Its surprisingly smooth to drive and seems to soak up a lot 0f road bumps easily.

Im a big fan of the 79 seri3s Utes, always have been, but still question the price.

You can buy a HiLux SR single cab chassis Ute with the same 2.8 litre engine and 6 speed transmission for about $47,000 plus the usual costs.

That’s about $30,000 saving. And there is surprisingly little difference between them

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the LC79 Workmate SCC  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE LC79 Workmate SCC – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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The post Toyota LC79 Workmate Single Cab Chassis 4WD Ute driven appeared first on Motoring Minute.

But as is turns out, we have nothing to do like that this time, so we’ve been using  it as an urban daily driver.

The Isuzu D-Max  LS-U is the mid spec model. It has cloth seats, manual adjustments, but has an electronic lumbar adjustment for the driver.

The D-Max Ute comes with the full set of safety features. The annoying safety features can be easily turned off. This is by a button on the steering wheel. You can also select if you want the adaptive function activated for cruise control or not.

The central screen has reasonable clarity, but if for some reason the lights are on in daylight it becomes difficult to see.

This is especially obvious with the reversing camera. There is wireless smart phone connectivity, but sadly not wireless charging tray. There is room for it though

Driving the D-Max is easy with the 3.9 litre turbo diesel engine and six speed automatic transmission.

Its powerful enough and economical as well.

The tray back design is designed for heavy loads and without that it does bounce around a bit and it’s a bit noisy. It did make a particularly convenient picnic table though for some takeaway and champers at the beach at sunset one evening.

It does show though that even though it’s a work Ute you can easily live with it on a daily basis.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Isuzu D-Max LS-U  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX LS-U – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 100 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 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 Isuzu D-MAX LS-U Dual Cab Chassis 4WD Ute appeared first on Motoring Minute.

 Well, they have just released a five seat dual cab chassis version of the Quartermaster.

It shares the same

• five-seat double cab,
• full box-section ladder frame chassis,
• heavy-duty solid beam axles,
• two-speed transfer case,
• and up to three locking differentials.

Power comes from a choice of BMW 3.0-litre turbo-charged inline six-cylinder petrol or diesel engines, driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF.

This combination will allow towing of up to 3500kg and a 350kg tow ball rating.

With a 3,227mm wheelbase – 305mm longer than the Grenadier Station Wagon – the Chassis Cab features an exposed ladder frame behind the passenger cabin, giving customers and aftermarket vehicle converters a wide range of body-building option.

The INEOS Grenadier wagon combines prodigious off-road capability with SUV like on road ride and handling dynamics. The Quartermaster Ute continues this balance.

Prices in Australia will begin at AUD $102,000 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the INEOS Quartermaster HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE INEOS Quartermaster RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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 INEOS Launches Grenadier Quartermaster Chassis Cab appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This chat was in late September and as we are going to print the news has come out about the dates for availability, what is available and pricing.

Sean, as always, was passionate, positive, direct, and refreshingly authentic when we chat.

TO LISTEN TO THE LANDCRUISER 70 SERIES RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

To listen to the full raw unedited audio interview, click below.

Everything you need to know about the LandCruiser 70 Series can be FOUND HERE

Highlights of the LandCruiser 70 Series release

Toyota Australia has announced pricing and specification for the upgraded  range, with the venerable workhorse arriving in Australian showrooms in November priced from $75,600 plus on-road costs¹ for the 76 Series WorkMate wagon.

• Upgraded LandCruiser 70 Series range arrives in local showrooms priced from $75,600 plus on-roads¹
• Four-cylinder 2.8-litre engine mated to automatic transmission available across the line-up
• New exterior styling and equipment upgrades complement upgrades to 70 Series range

Along with enhancements to exterior styling, comfort and convenience features, and safety technology, the 70 Series introduces a six-speed automatic transmission for the first time, teamed to the tried-and-tested 1GD four-cylinder 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine which has also been upgraded to suit the hardcore usage required of a 70 Series engine.

LandCruiser 70 Series pricing¹

Options:

Premium paint: $675

*Front and rear differential locks: $1500

Notes

1 Manufacturer’s list price provided for media purposes only. Statutory charges or other on-road costs not included.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post LandCruiser 70 Series available soon appeared first on Motoring Minute.

There have been a few flash floods along the creek bed lately and the bank has washed away and taken the fence with it. Now fencing isn’t one of my favourite things to do. In fact, in my list of top 100 things I enjoy doing, fencing comes in around number 499.

However, it needed to be done.

The drive out was relaxed and comfortable. Even though the LS-U misses out on several of the comfort features like heated leather seats, the fabric seats thankfully have additional electronic lumbar support. They are also warm, which was a bonus as it was minus 2 in the early mornings.

The dual cab LS-U Dual Cab Trayback D-Max was right at home on the farm. Plenty of room inside, dual range 4WD system, powerful and robust engine, and a large tray for all the gear.

This trip showed exactly how versatile the D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback is.

Isuzu D-Max LS-U tray back dual cab Ute is priced from around $59,500 plus the usual costs

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more Isuzu D-Max articles HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Isuzu D-MAX RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Final thoughts Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback

I’ve said it many times. The D-Max is a robust, reliable and practical 4WD Ute.

The LS-U Trayback Dual Cab 4WD Ute is perhaps the best mix between recreational and work Ute.

It’s comfortable and spacious inside, but has more than 1000kg payload.

Ideal for worksites and family holidays.

The D-Max will tow 3500kg with ease, go anywhere you will sensibly want to go off road and do it in comfort. All D-Max vehicles come with the tow assembly installed. All you have to do is add the hitch tongue you want.

Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine.

RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

In addition, Motoring Minute segments are also broadcast nationally as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab CC 2023 Review appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Last week I had the D-Max LS-U Dual cab tray back Ute, this combines the benefits of a relatively large tray with the ability to carry a family as well as 4WD capability.

The advantage of the tray back style is that it still has a payload of some 1100 plus kilograms and a practical load area. The disadvantage of the dual cab style is that almost all that load is behind the rear axle.

I loaded yet more pavers, a full 900kg worth, onto the Ute to see how it would cope.

First up, the rear axle handled the weight with ease. There was a touch of rear dip but nothing spectacular. You could feel the weight when driving obviously.

Isuzu has a handy payload calculator on their website. Many people overload their car, van or Ute without realising it.

Secondly the 4-cylinder, 3.0L turbo diesel engine took it all in its stride. This Isuzu engine is one of the best on the market. Proven over many years in their Utes and small truck range. It is over engineered, robust, reliable, and economical.

Again the 6 speed sports automatic transmission is well matched to the engine and robust enough to handle the stresses.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more Isuzu D-Max articles HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE LS-U DUAL CAB RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Final thoughts Isuzu D-Max LS-U Dual Cab Trayback

The Isuzu D-Max LS-U is a robust, reliable and practical 4WD Ute.

The LS-U Trayback Dual Cab 4WD Ute is perhaps the best mix between recreational and work Ute.

It’s comfortable and spacious inside, but has more than 1000kg payload.

I laded the trayback up to full capacity and it handled it with ease.

Ideal for worksites and family holidays.

The D-Max will tow 3500kg with ease, go anywhere you will sensibly want to go off road and do it in comfort. All D-Max vehicles come with the tow assembly installed. All you have to do is add the hitch tongue you want.

Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

In addition, Motoring Minute segments are also broadcast nationally as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max LS-U Trayback long term test appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This week I would like to chat about a different use. Certainly not conventional but practical.

I am renovating my rear garden. Digging out the old sleepers and replacing them with new garden beds. Also making some raised vege patches.

Now the huge tray on the Isuzu SX came in handy.

Having an old back, I’m not fond of bending. The tray was at waist height and large enough to take the full treated sleepers. This allowed me to construct the borders on the back of the tray.

The sides fold down for easy access.

The sides and the front of the tray form a perfect right angle for setting up the corners of the sleepers.

Not only did this make it so much easier to work, it also made it more accurate. On top of that it was faster, not having to get up and down all the time. My knees and back were extremely thankful.

Using the Isuzu D-Max SX Ute like this shows just how beneficial having a Ute can be.

Isuzu D-Max SX 2 Door 2WD 1.9L Ute is currently priced from $31,990 drive away

This is a Motoring Minute’

Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX SX RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max SX Optional extras:

Tow Bar Kit $1,132.25, 12-Pin Plug $393.25, Electronic Brake Controller $896.05, Economy Alloy Tray $0 (included in driveaway price), Rubber Mats $127.66 and has stamp duty for Accessories which comes to $127.66.

As Tested $34,670.88, as the vehicle has a driveaway special of $31,990.

Also look at:

There are not many Single Cab Cassis work Utes on the market at the moment Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market but everyone is aiming upmarket. Even getting our hands on some to test is difficult.

Buyers could look at Mazda BT-50, Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton.

Isuzu D-Max SX Final thoughts

Single Cab Chassis Work Utes are becoming a rare breed, with the push towards the premium end of dual cab’s.

While I always prefer more power and torque, the 1.9L diesel performed more than adequately.

It was ideal for around town work and cruised easily on the freeway.

You cant beat the price though. Its awesome value for money.

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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. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max SX SCC alternative use 2023 review appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Its starts with the reliable and robust 30L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine. It provides some 140kW of power and a very useful 450Nm of torque.

That headline figure is less than some competitors, but it’s the delivery that makes it useful. Maximum torque comes on around 1600rpm and there is about 350Nm available from around 1200rpm. This is combined with a 6 Sp automatic transmission. Low torque delivery means more control in 4WD situations.

Add to that the Terrain Command 4WD system that allows switching between 2WD and 4WD at speeds up to 100kmh. The standard Ute also has 240mm of ground clearance and impressive approach and departure angles.

Other specific 4WD features are a wading depth of 800mm, standard rear diff lock and heavy-duty steel underbody protection. There is also hill start assist and hill decent function that allows control for the driver without fuss.

When you are deep in 4WD country you want a robust and reliable 4WD that gives you the confidence to explore. The Isuzu D-Max does that.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more Isuzu D-Max articles HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max 4WD RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Final thoughts on the Isuzu D-Max 4WD Ute

• The D-Max 4WD comes in three variants, single cab, Crew cab and Space Cab
• It also comes in all the model grades. SX, LS-M, LS-U, LS-U+ and X-Terrain
• Depending on the model it will come with a rear tub or trayback.
• All 4WD models come with the full suite of safety features irrespective if the grade or body style
• All 4WD models come with standard rear diff lock and Terrain Command 4WD system obviously.
• The 3.0L 4 Cylinder turbo diesel engine is across all D-Max 4WD models
• Buyers can choose either a 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic transmission, depending on the model grade.
• Every D-Max 4WD will tow 3500kg with a 350kg tow ball rate
• While the approach, rampover and departure angles will vary depending on the model and body style, all are enough for adventurous 4WD.
• Water fording of 800mm on all models is excellent. Class leading.

What is good?

• 4WD and towing ability
• Ride and handling
• Class leading safety features

What is not so good?

• Central screen can wash out in sunlight
• Inconsistent DTE gauge
• Would love 150kW/500Nm

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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. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

In addition, Motoring Minute segments are also broadcast nationally as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Why choose the Isuzu D-Max as a 4WD Ute appeared first on Motoring Minute.

It’s powered by a 1.9L 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine. This provides 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque. The version I drove comes with a 6 speed Manual Transmission and 2WD.

The standard alloy tray measures about 2.55m long, 1.8m wide and has a depth of 250mm. Payload is around 1400kg.

Now I gave the SX Isuzu a workout with about 1200 kg of pavers loaded on the back and drove from Sydney to Nelson Bay.

It carried the load with ease. With 1.9L the engine was willing and cruised comfortably along the freeway. However, it needed to be worked through the gears on hills. You couldn’t be lazy and let the torque carry you.

What is impressive is that this entry model still comes with a multitude of safety features, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, and Auto high beam headlights.

At the time of testing Isuzu has a driveaway special price on this Ute of $31,990 ad that’s stunning value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Optional extras:

Tow Bar Kit $1,132.25, 12-Pin Plug $393.25, Electronic Brake Controller $896.05, Economy Alloy Tray $0 (included in driveaway price), Rubber Mats $127.66 and has stamp duty for Accessories which comes to $127.66.

As Tested $34,670.88, as the vehicle has a driveaway special of $31,990.

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX SX RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some other Isuzu D-MAX SX Articles

• Isuzu D-MAX SX Single Cab Chassis 2WD High Ride Ute 2022 Review
• 2022 Isuzu D-Max SX Single Cab Chassis 1.9L 2022 Model
• Isuzu D MAX SX 4WD Work Utes Review
• Isuzu updates the D-MAX range for 2022
• 2022 Isuzu D-Max Range 2022 upgrade with new models
• Isuzu D MAX SX 4WD Work Utes Review
• Isuzu D-Max Range 2022 upgrade with new models
• 2021 Isuzu D MAX SX 4WD Work Utes Review
• Isuzu D-MAX SX Crew Cab 4X4 Cab Chassis Auto Radio Review
• 2021 Isuzu D-MAX SX Crew Cab 4X4 Cab Chassis Auto Radio Review
• Isuzu D-MAX SX Space Cab 4X4 Cab Chassis Auto Radio Review
• 2020 Isuzu D Max SX 4X2 Space Cab High Ride Ute 2020 Review
• Isuzu D-MAX SX Space Cab 4X4 Cab Chassis Auto Review
• The All-New Isuzu D-Max: Commercial Utes for the Workers
• 2018 Isuzu D-Max SX 2WD Cab Chassis Ute Review
• Isuzu D-MAX SX 6 speed manual Cab Chassis Ute Radio Review

Also look at:

There are not many Single Cab Cassis work Utes on the market at the moment Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market but everyone is aiming upmarket. Even getting our hands on some to test is difficult.

Buyers could look at Mazda BT-50, Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton.

Final D-Max SX thoughts

Single Cab Chassis Work Utes are becoming a rare breed, with the push towards the premium end of dual cab’s.

While I always prefer more power and torque, the 1.9L diesel performed more than adequately.

It was ideal for around town work and cruised easily on the freeway.

You cant beat the price though. Its awesome value for money.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX SX CC 2023 Review appeared first on Motoring Minute.