Unlike many others the 10 Deserts Edition strikes a subtle exterior. About the only nod is the label on the side panel.

Limited to 300 vehicles, the 10 deserts edition boasts a number of practical enhancements such as:

• Amarok 40mm lift kit.
• 275mm ground clearance
• Upgraded underbody protection.
• Continental Cross Contact ATR tyres
• Exclusive Satin Black 17” alloy wheels
• Black Sports bar and Soft tonneau cover.
• 10 Deserts Edition decal
• ‘Diamond’ embossed fabric seat package
• Amarok branded all-weather floor mats.

Powered by a 2.0 litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine, which provides 154kW of power and 500Nm of torque.

This drives all four wheels through a part time shift on the fly 4Motion system and a 10 speed Sports Automatic transmission.

The combination works well and you never seem to be in the wrong gear or wanting more performance.

I took the Amarok on both suburban and motorway driving, some dirt tracks and on the beach. It seemed to take all in its stride without fuss.

The steering is slightly heavy weighted but with good return to centre which I like, It feels more controlled. Suspension soaked up almost every bump and pothole.

Im not sure how many are left but it’s definitely worth a look as VW is now pricing them at around $60,000 driveaway and that’s outstanding value.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Amarok 10 Deserts  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Amarok 10 Deserts – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition – Buyers could also look at:

The Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition has strong competition with:

• Isuzu D-Max Blade $80,990 *MLP
• Toyota HiLux Rogue $71,990 *MLP
• Mazda BT-50 SP $73,490 *MLP
• Mitsubishi Triton Raider $74,990 *MLP
• Nissan Navara Pro 4X Warrior $71,643 *MLP (old model)
• Ford Ranger Tremor $75,090 *MLP

*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)

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Based on the top model GSR the Triton Raider adds both functional and cosmetic appeal.

This is achieved by implementing a unique front and rear suspension damper package.

With the front damper utilising an internal rebound spring to maximise suspension control, was developed for Raider. A front spring and bump stop was also deployed.

There is also an upgraded frontal bash plate that is laser cut with Raider wording.

Premcar engineering team selected the Bridgestone AT002 all-terrain tyres, matched to a heavier-duty ROH ‘Assault’ 18-inch alloy wheel. These wheels are finished in a distinctive Brushed Bronze with specific ‘Raider’ hub caps.

Overall front clearance has increased by 25 mm from the combination suspension and wheel and tyres. The rear sees a 15mm lift from the wheels and tyres.

Overall wheel track has also widened by 20mm front and back.

The YAMAHA Performance Damper system which debuted in the 26MY Triton GSR is retained. This horizontally-mounted damper connects to the chassis to further enhance NVH performance.

There are some other cosmetic exterior additions to enhance the appeal.

Inside, the Triton Raider enjoys all the key equipment found in the top-spec GSR.

The black leather seats feature orange stitching, with the addition of Raider branded front headrests and a further Raider badge fitted to the centre console.

Available by mid-June in dealer showrooms, the Triton Raider will be priced from $74,990 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Triton Raider – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Triton Raider – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mitsubishi Triton Raider – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Triton Raider  are in an unusual segment. There are  few to choose from.

• Isuzu D-Max Blade $80,900*
• Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior $70,765* (old model)
• Toyota HiLux Rogue $71,990*
• Mazda BT-50 SP $73,490*
• Ford Ranger Tremor $75,090*
• Remember to ask the dealer as special pricing can appear from time to time.

*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). Pricing is from Redbook as at date of article or from the manufacturer’s website.

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It’s well known that their target was 20,000 sales in a full year. But  YTD end April 2026 they have sold 1658 Utes. Ute buyers are very parochial.

At the first reveal and later at the launch I thought three things

1. It’s a bit expensive for new model. In some cases, by up to $10,000 I felt
2. It doesn’t have an engine that excites. There is nothing wrong with what it has, but they needed something different at launch to grab people’s attention and
3. It is ugly. There is no getting away from that. I don’t mind it as its different, but it turns buyers off more than anything else.

So now after 12 months of sales failing to meet expectations, Kia is looking to bring forward updates.

There is much speculation as to what these are, but only time will provide confirmation.

It’s also well-known im a big fan of the Tasman.

• It has SUV like on road ride and handling,
• With an interior far superior to almost every other Ute available.
• It’s capable off road and in the heavy duty stuff as well.

Whatever Kia has up its sleeve for the updates, lets hope they get it right this time.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Kia Tasman  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Tasman – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Kia Tasman X-Pro – Buyers could also look at:

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

Other Kia Tasman Motoring Minute Segments

• Kia Tasman X-Pro 4WD Ute driven for 2026 review
• X-Pro Kia Tasman first drive 2025
• Kia Tasman – addressing the negative comments
• Pricing confirmed Kia Tasman Ute
• Kia Tasman – Best of 2024
• Revealed in all its design glory – Kia Tasman
• Kia Tasman 4WD Ute – what we know so far

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

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All designed to meet the draconian NVES rules imposed on manufacturers.

Available in a limited range of models both 2wd AND 4wd, I recently drove the 4WD X-Rider version.

This model sits somewhere in the middle of the range.

The main difference is the engine. With 120kW and 400Nm from 1600 – 2400 rpm its certainly less than buyers are used to.

It does come with an eight speed sports AT which helps cover for the loss of performance.

Isuzu also claim better fuel economy but its less than 1 l/100km and in real world situations that would probably be negated by working the engine harder.

Aart from slightly less kerb weight which means marginally more payload. The 2.2L and 3.0L Utes have the same GCM and towing ratings.

So, the question remains – Why would someone buy the 2.2L over the 3.0L version D-Max.

Well price is one reason. It’s about $2,000 cheaper before the usual costs.

CO2 emissions may be another. However, the difference is marginal at best.

So, my answer is that I really cant see any real reason why. For me I would take the 3.0L versions every time.

They have proved themselves to be robust, reliable long life engines.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE. 

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Isuzu D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Potential choices could be Mazda BT-50 2.2L,  KGM Musso, FOTON Tunland, GWM Cannon,

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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Aimed almost purely at mine sites, councils and other corporate buyers. I really don’t see many private buyers lining up.

The reason is that many businesses are looking to tick boxes for reduced tailpipe emissions.

Development work done in mine sites across Australia, reinforces this thought.

Due for release in May, there are two dual cab models available. The SR with a tray back and pickup versions and the SR5 with a Pickup style.

HiLux BEV is underpinned by a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery and dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.

Combined system output for the HiLux BEV is 144kW, with torque distribution variably controlled between the front and rear axles during on-road driving to provide high-traction full-time AWD.

Driving range for the pick-up grades is rated at 315km on the NEDC cycle, while the SR cab-chassis is rated at 245km. Real world range will differ obviously.

Toyota has upgraded the suspension to accommodate the extra weight of the battery.

Towing is rated at 2000kg.

For off-roading, Toyota’s sophisticated Multi-Terrain Select traction control system offers six different drive modes to suit the conditions underfoot.

Pricing is from $74.990 through to $82.990 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the HiLux BEV – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE HiLux BEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Inside it has a practical layout but it seems a touch dated these days.

Surprisingly it also has wired smart phone mirroring.

The GT model comes with a few luxuries like

• Black leather seats,
• Front seats are heated
• Front parking sensor
• 8 way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with additional lumbar support
• Heated external mirrors for those cold or icy days and
• Remote engine start

Performance comes from a 3.0L turbo diesel engine with 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque available from 1600 rpm. This drives through a selectable 4WD system and a 6 Sp AT.

Towing capacity is 3500 kg and it’s a popular choice for that.

With prodigious 4WD capability, the BT-50 GT is equally at home around the suburbs, forest trails, on the beach and outback touring.

The Mazda BT-50 GT is one of those Utes you jump I  and immediately feel at home in. Its comfortable capable and easy to live with

With pricing deals from $66,990 driveaway it’s not bad value as well.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

You can download the full brochure HERE 

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

TO LISTEN TO THE Mazda BT-50 GT – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mazda BT-50 GT – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could look at : Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-Max, Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger,  KGM Musso 

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This all new Ute was released late in 2024 and has a retro design.

In fact, its retro meets modern, without a lot of the painful safety stuff.

Im a bit if a fan of the boxy styling and it certainly attracted a lot of attention when I was driving it. Probably because people didn’t really know what it was.

It comes in three models, with a choice of two straight six 3.0L BMW engines, one diesel and one petrol. Thos is combed with an 8 speed ZF AT and permanent 4WD. Both engines provide plenty of power and torque with reasonable economy.

Around town it drives ok. With reasonably compliant suspension it doesn’t quite suffer the same bouncy ride many Utes have. One major issue though is the huge turning circle. That provided some interesting times in tight suburban car parks over the Christmas shopping rush.

I did use the Quartermaster to move a couple of loads of pavers, and it handled that quite well.

I’ve driven the INEOS Quartermaster around town, on motorways, outback highways, desert tracks, on forest trails, and beaches. I’ve also towed with it.

Overall, the Quartermaster makes an excellent outback tourer, whether towing or not. It feels at home out there.

While there are a couple of niggly issues, I have to say I love driving the Quartermaster.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the INEOS Quartermaster Ute – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE INEOS Quartermaster Ute – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

INEOS Quartermaster Ute – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  INEOS Quartermaster Ute are in unusual territory. There isn’t a real direct competitor.

However, I would suggest buyers also look at: Toyota LC79 series Utes, Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, Ford Ranger Super Duty.

At full price, the Quartermaster is nudging smaller American Pickup truck territory, but the internal space amongst them makes that a mute comparison.

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There are four models. These include the work style V7 in both 2wd and 4WD versions. The V9 comes in two different 4WD spec versions.

All comes with the same 2.0L 48V mild hybrid turbo diesel engine. This provides 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque from a low 1500rpm.

This is combined with a specially calibrated 8 speed ZF Automatic Transmission.

Some would say that 120kW isn’t enough power. And im amongst them, But for all but very few situations its adequate. Interestingly with the draconian NVES legislation, many Ute manufacturers are now offering a 120kW version.

Over the last four weeks I’ve driven each version.

For testing I’ve towed a smaller camper trailer, driven them on forest trails and the beach. Taken a longer motorway based trip. Used them for everyday transport and moved heavy loads in the Ute tub.

I’ve used the tailgate as a picnic table to watch sunsets over the beach and even put the grandsons baby seat in the back.

With a SUV like interior and abundant space for five occupants the FOTON Tunland is definitely different.

The big surprise if the stunning pricing. From $39,990 through to $49,990 plus the usual costs its outstanding value.

Overall, the FOTON Tunland may just be the perfect lifestyle Ute.

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

Foton Tunland Buyers could also look at:

While the Ute segment is growing in terms of participants, there is a definite development of subsections.

The first is on size. The mid-sized segment includes the: MGU9, GWM Cannon Alpha and LDV Terron9,

However, if you also look at pricing and engine figures there are some other alternatives such as: KGM Musso XLV Ultimate, the new Isuzu D-MAX 2.2L powered Utes and the same for 2.2L Mazda BT-50,

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