The latest to arrive is the JAC Hunter PHEV.

Priced from below $50,000 plus the usual costs, the Hunter plug-in hybrid dual-cab Ute provides a healthy 360kW of power and a claimed 1,000Nm of torque. Those are stunning figures. Towing is rated at 3500 kg as well.

JAC also claim that the Hunter will have an EV only range of up to 100km and a range of over 1000km from a fully charged battery and petrol engine.

JAC claims that they have tuned the Hunter for Australia’s harsh conditions with over 100,000 km of localized testing.These include ling distance durability, towing heavy loads, hit weather, dirt roads and city and motorway driving.

There are two models available and the top spec includes standard features like:

• Front and rear differential locks (optional for Hunter Pro)
• Electronic adjustable and Heated front seats
• Five off road drive modes
• 360° panoramic view camera and a
• Rear 220V accessory socket

There is strong competition, with models like BYD Shark 6, Cannon Alpha PHEV, Foton Tunland, MG U9 and others.

One thing is for sure, Ute buyers in Australia have never had as much choice as now. They just need to make the right choice for their needs and not be lured by headline figures and low prices.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

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

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

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.

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While both models share the same rugged platform and powertrain, they are designed to appeal to different buyers.

The V7 is the work-focused option, available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations with leaf-spring rear suspension for durability and load-carrying ability.

The V9 is aimed at buyers wanting extra comfort and refinement, featuring standard 4WD, multi-link rear suspension and a more premium interior with additional technology and convenience features.

Powering both Utes is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine produces 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque, with drive sent through a smooth ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

The mild-hybrid system improves efficiency and assists with low-speed performance while maintaining a claimed combined fuel consumption of around 8.0L/100km. Both models also offer a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg.

Pricing starts from around AUD $39,990 for the Tunland V7 4×2, with the V7 4×4 priced from $42,990. The V9 range begins at $45,990, while the flagship V9-S is available from $49,990 before on-road costs, making the Tunland range a competitively priced alternative in the Ute segment.

Over the next few weeks, we will be chatting about all the models and features.

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Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE 

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

 TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

• Ford Ranger 2.0L XL
• Isuzu D-Max 2.2L
• Mazda BT-50 2.2L
• KGM Musso XLV
• GWM Cannon Alpha
• MGU9
• LDV Terron 9
• Chery Stockman
• JAC Hunter PHEV

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• Foton Tunland – Everything you need to know
• FOTON Tunland V7 C 2WD Ute driven for 2026.
• 2026 FOTON Tunland V7 and V9 review 
• Foton Tunland first drive for 2025
• FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing.

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

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The post Foton Tunland Dual Cab Ute details Long term test 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Unlike a conventional hybrid, the 48-volt system cannot drive the vehicle on electric power alone. Instead, it uses a compact electric motor-generator and lithium-ion battery to:

• provide additional torque during acceleration,
• lower fuel consumption
• ensure a quieter stop-start operation and
• recover energy during braking.

Power continues to come from Toyota’s 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, producing 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.

Compared with lower-specification models, it features a wider track, revised suspension, rear disc brakes and larger wheel arches, improving stability both on and off the road.

Standard equipment includes.

• 18-inch alloy wheels,
• leather-accented seats,
• a powered driver’s seat,
• heated front seats,
• dual-zone climate control,
• a premium multimedia system with wireless smartphone connectivity and
• a 360-degree camera.

Off road, the HiLux Rogue retains its impressive credentials with selectable four-wheel drive, low-range gearing, a rear differential lock, hill descent control and excellent ground clearance.

The addition of the mild hybrid system enhances refinement without compromising the durability or rugged dependability that have made the HiLux a favourite among Australian Ute buyers.

Priced from $71,990 plus the usual costs it has a lot of competitors but remains popular with buyers.

The Rogue remains the flagship HiLux for buyers seeking a blend of work capability and premium comfort.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the HiLux Rogue – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE HiLux Rogue – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some other Toyota HiLux Motoring Minute segments

• Toyota HiLux Workmate 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026.
• Toyota has released the HiLux BEV
• 2024 Toyota HiLux SR 48V Mild Hybrid 4WD dual Cab Ute
• Toyota HiLux Hybrid – updated with hybrid technology
• We drive the Toyota HiLux GR Sport 2024 Review
• First drive in a Toyota HiLux GR Sport

Toyota HiLux Rogue – Buyers could also look at:

This is a popular segment with strong competition form a lot of brands. Some of the better choices are: 

• Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain
• Kia Tasman,  
• Ford Ranger Tremor, 
• Nissan Navara Pro 4-X Warrior, 
• Mazda BT-50 SP, 
• Mitsubishi Triton GSR.
• Foton Tunland V9

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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.

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The post Toyota HiLux Rogue 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I had the Ultimate XLV version for a few weeks. That is the top spec model with the extended wheelbase and tub length.

Along with upgraded specs for most models the Musso also underwent some design changes that make it more streamlined and styling.

I like the new front end with the sleek LED headlights on the Ultimate model. Other features I appreciated were the comfortable front seats with additional lumbar support for the driver. Both front seats are heated and ventilated.

There is plenty of room both front and back with the extended wheelbase.

One unusual feature is the steering wheel, thick at the bottom and thin on top. It takes a little adjustment to feel comfortable.

Powered by a 2.2L four cylinder turbo diesel engine. It provides some 133kW of power and 420Nm of torque from 1600 rpm. This runs through a part time 4WD system and a six speed sports automatic transmission.

On road ride and handling is good and smooth for a Ute. Off road the suspension seems to be complaint and soaks up most of the track corrugations.

Overall, the KGM Musso is easy to live with and practical. Priced from $53,000 drive away for the top models it’s also better value than many more popular Japanese branded Utes.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the KGM Musso – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE KGM Musso – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

KGM Musso Buyers could also look at:

The KGM Musso crosses between the Chinese Utes and the more mainstream brands. It sits somewhere in the middle.

Buyers could look at : LDV T60, GWM Cannon, Nissan Navara, Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger Black Edition, FOTON Tunland, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton

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 KGM Musso Ultimate XLV Review 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Powered by a 2.4L Turbo diesel engine delivering 135kW of power and  480Nm of torque, it’s responsive to drive . With a GWM  9-speed automatic transmission it’s also reasonably economical as well.

The Canon isn’t a bad looking Ute and the XSR comes with extra style additions. These include full underbody protection, front and rear steel bumpers, black alloys, sports bar, roof rails, and a black snorkel.

Inside the Canon is comfortable and well laid out. The drivers’ instruments and large central screen have good resolution and easy to read. The heated and ventilated front seats are electrically adjustable. I do like the separate USB input on the rear view mirror for dash cams.

The XSR also comes with a Borg Warner 4WD system, front and rear diff locks, adjustable steering, 700 mm wading depth and other 4WD features.

I took the Canon XSR on some dirt roads that are heavily corrugated and potholed. The rear suspension is a little harsh, but it coped well. On sand it’s easy to drive and the low torque delivers when needed.

Rated to tow 3500kg I didn’t get a chance this time, but it certainly feels as if it will be a handy tow vehicle.

The best news is the price. From $51,990 plus the usual costs its pretty good value for money

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Canon XSR – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Canon XSR – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

GWM Canon XSR – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Canon XSR could also look at the following: KGM SsangYong Musso, FOTON Tunland, LDV T60, Nissan Navara STX, Isuzu D-Max, JAC T9

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. 

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The post GWM Cannon XSR 4WD Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Joining the emerging category that sits between traditional dual-cab Utes and full-size pick-up trucks, the FOTON TUNLAND offers the best of both worlds delivering the strength and space of a larger workhorse while maintaining the practicality and efficiency of a traditional Ute.

There are four models available. The V7 in both 2WD and 4WD. As well as the V9 in in two spec levels.

All models come with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine paired with 48V mild-hybrid technology and a refined ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. They have a maximum towing capacity of 3500kg.

The 2.0L engine produces 120 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque between 1500-2400rpm.

TUNLANDS offer extra room inside, particularly in the rear seats to traditional Utes. They also offer a level of inter ambience and comfort more like an SUV.

There has been extensive localised testing to ensure the TUNLAND is suitable for local conditions. They also offer up to 240 mm of ground clearance as well as a 28 degree approach angle and 26 degree departure angle.

But the best news is the stunning pricing. They FOTON TUNLAND is priced from $39,9990 through to $49,990 for the top spec model. All plus the usual pricing.

More details will be released closer to the third quarter release

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the FOTON TUNLAND  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE FOTON TUNLAND – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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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 FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

These include:

• Body decals
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Roof rails
• Integrated Lightforce light bar
• roller tonneau cover and inbuilt liner.
• black sports bar.
• and a host of other grey or black external bling

The BT-50- SP has a smooth and sleek look.

It has excellent 4WD and towing capability.

The familiar turbocharged 3.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine powers the Mazda BT-50, generating 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque.

The fact that the maximum torque comes in between 1,600 to 2,600rpm is why it’s a great towing and 4WD Ute.

My model also came with the SP Pro enhancement pack. This adds Nitrocharger suspension which is specifically tuned the vehicle. It incorporates upgraded springs that lift up to two inches.

These twin tube shock absorbers provide extra ride comfort, both on the bitumen and off the beaten track.

Priced from around $68,500 plus the usual costs, the Mazda BT-50 SP Pro is terrific value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Mazda BT-50 SP– HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE BT-50 SP Pro – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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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. 

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In an exclusive function in Tasmania last week, we finally got to see the Tasman in the flesh.

Well let’s say Its different. In fact, it has a unique style. Nothing like the Utes we are used to. Is that good or bad.

Tasman will come with the 2.2L turbo diesel engine that is in the Sorrento and Carnival. It has some tweaks for 4WD work. This is matched to the familiar 8 sp automatic transmission.

There are three models, the top spec XP Pro is heavily aimed at more adventurous buyers with up to 252mm of ground clearance. It also has additional 4WD specific features to increase capability.

Once you get past the different design, inside its all Kia.

Well laid out with the now familiar 30-inch digital instruments and central screen.

The seats are particularly comfortable. Head room is fantastic. In fact, Luke Longley, the NBA star was there, and he fitted his 7’2” frame without any fuss.

Rear seat leg room is normal for this size Ute.

There are a number of other clever design ideas as well.

I love the fact that its so different. I do have to say Im slowly warming to the style. However the only voice that matters is the buying public and time will tell.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Kia Tasman  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Tasman – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

The post Kia Tasman – Best of 2024 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Now we are getting something in between. The FOTON TUNLAND sits somewhere between those two sizes.

The FOTON TUNLAND V7 and V9 will both be available in the first half of 2025.

Foton have released the TUNLAND overseas already. From the information available, they have the internal space of a large SUV with plenty of rear room for three adult passengers. Something that normal Utes fail in.

They also have advanced infotainment and connectivity technology, with a large central screen and intelligent cockpit. The interior comfort and luxury levels on overseas models are equal to the best SUVs and adds a new level of luxury for smaller Utes.

FOTON will release further details, including specifications and pricing, closer to the release dates. In the meantime, we encourage interested customers to register their interest at www.fotonaustralia.com.au.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the FOTON TUNLAND  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE FOTON TUNLAND – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Blair Read, Managing Director Distribution, Inchcape Australasia, commented: “We are excited to introduce FOTON’s innovative commercial vehicles to Australians. Beginning with the AUMARK S. We look forward to then expanding the FOTON range in 2025. With the launch of the TUNLAND V7 and V9 Ute. As we continue to grow FOTON’s dependable and value-driven mobility solutions. These help enhance the operations of Australian businesses and support the adventurous lifestyles of Australian consumers.”

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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 FOTON TUNLAND V7 and V9 coming to Australia in 2025 appeared first on Motoring Minute.