It sits in that mid-sized Ute segment. Larger than the usual HiLux or Ranger, but smaller than the American pickup Trucks. Other Utes in this sub segment include the sister Ute LDV Terron9, Cannon Alpha PHEV, and the upcoming FOTON V9.

The launch included some reasonable 4wd tracks, shallow water crossings, a towing loop, and some forest trail driving. Strangely there was no on road section.

My overall impression of the MGU9 is that I actually liked it a lot.

It has big, bold styling, although Im not fussed on the grill design. Its spacious and comfortable inside. I could set the drivers seat for me and sit behind myself with my knees lightly brushing the front seat. That’s a bonus.

Its well laid out with some quirky features like the aeroplane style transmission lever. The other bonus is that the top spec model comes with both front and rear diff locks.

It comes with a 2.5 L turbo diesel engine that provides some 160kW of power and 530 Nm of torque. That’s a handy amount and it allows a towing ability of 3500kg.

The big news is the pricing. From $52,990 through to $60,990 drive away the MGU9 is stunning value.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the MGU9  HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE MGU9– RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the MGU9– buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: LDV Terron9, KGM Musso XLV, GWM Cannon Alpha, FOTON V9.

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 The D-Max is a popular towing vehicle. It has a 3.0L turbo diesel engine with 145kW of power and 450Nm of torque that comes in at a low 1600rpm. This mated to a robust 6Sp Aisin AT makes it an ideal towing vehicle. It will also easily tow 3500 kg.

Its one of my favourite towing vehicles.

The package includes:

• a tow bar tongue and 50mm ball,
• 12-pin wiring harness,
• electric brake controller,
• Clearview extendable heated and power-fold compact towing mirrors,
• a canopy with dual lift-upside windows,
• slimline weather shields, and
• unique TOUR MATE badging.

This is a well thought out package. Many vans these days have 12 pin wiring, and every tow vehicle needs an electronic brake controller. Every Isuzu D-Max comes with  genuine tow hitch as well.

The Clearview extendable mirrors are the best on the market. The canopy looks great and adds another dimension for load carrying. Also going old school with the slim line window shields is a clever touch.

This is definitely a package that is worth looking at for prospective towers.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX Tour Mate  HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX Tour Mate  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the D-MAX Tour Mate  – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger 2.0L,  Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, SsangYong Musso, LDV T60, Mitbushi Triton GLS 

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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 Isuzu D-MAX Tour Mate 4wd Dual Cab Ute revisited for 2025. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The thing I really like about Isuzu Utes is that they all come with the full set of safety features, right from the entry level model through to the top model.

They all come with wireless connectivity for smart phones and all have height and reach adjustments for the steering wheel

So the basics are covered. The X-Rider comes with:

• A soft cover and sports bar for the tub
• 10 inch infotainment system
• Black exterior and interior highlights

The fabric seats appear hard wearing, but the manual adjustment means that it’s a little difficult to find a really comfortable position.

The Ute I drove comes with the 3.0 litre 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine and a reliable 6 speed automatic transmission. Of course, dual range 4WD and a 3500 kg towing capacity.

The X-Rider comes with the upgraded rear springs that allows better payload with a slightly softer on road ride when unladen. Slightly is the key word here.

Priced at $59,500 plus the usual costs, the Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider is great value as you would expect from Isuzu

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-Rider  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-Rider – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the D-MAX X-Rider – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at:

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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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I do like the design of the Velar; its elegant and subtle style creates a presence on the road.

Inside the ebony interior provides immediate ambience.

Sitting in the front seats you appreciate the sense of luxury and comfort. The 3D surround sound system makes you feel like you are at a live concert.

Rear seats are a little cramped for leg room and not ideal for a baby seat. I’m still sitting in the back with my little boy, and it’s not really designed for that.

Boot space is reasonable, but with a sloping roof line you do lose some capacity.

With a two litre Plug in Hybrid petrol motor, there is plenty of performance. The electric only range is about 60 kilometres, and it will easily charge overnight.

Driving the Velar Autobiography is so smooth and quiet. Ride and handling is what you would expect from Range Rover.

Few car brands have suspension as smooth as this.

Given the levels of luxury, it’s strange to think about taking this car off road, but it is capable. I just don’t think any owners will.

Snow trips and weekends away at the country estate are more its style.

Pricing for the Range Rover Velar Autobiography P400 e starts from a bit under $139,000 dollars plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Velar P400 e.

TO LISTEN TO THE Velar P400 e – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Range Rover Velar P400 e – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Audi Q8, Audi Q7, Lexus RX 450 h,  Hyundai Palisade,  Genesis GV80 . Kia EV9

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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 35^th Anniversary model is based on the Dynamic SE with technology, styling, towing and comfort upgrades.

With the relaunch of the Defender, the Discovery seems to have been pushed to the background a touch. It has however morphed into a premium 4WD SUV.

I like the latest design, it’s sleek with smooth lines and purposeful.

Inside its luxury and comfort all the way. The front seats are particularly supportive, and heating was appreciated on cold mornings.

Driver ergonomics are excellent with the only grumble being the steering wheel control buttons are a bit cumbersome.

The Discovery is powered by an inline six cylinder turbo diesel engine. This provides a combination of both powerful performance and economy. This drives all four wheels through an eight speed AT.

The key to the Discovery’s appeal is just how smooth and responsive it is to drive. While its quiet and comfortable around town, it excels on the open road.

Very few manufacturers sort their suspension as compliant as Land Rover. It seems to just soak up all the bumps and road irregularities without fuss.

Pricing for the 35^th Anniversary Discovery is from $132,090 plus the usual costs. The vehicle we had also had the capability pack for more 4WD activities that added another $5000.

Overall if you are in the market for a premium family based SUV then the Discovery should definitely be on your list.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Land Rover Discovery D350  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Land Rover Discovery D350 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Land Rover Discovery D350– buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Audi Q8, Audi Q7, Lexus RX 450 h,  Toyota LandCruiser Sahara, Nissan Patrol Ti-L, Hyundai Palisade,  Genesis GV80

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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 Land Rover Discovery D350 35th Anniversary edition driven for 2025. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The workhorse 4WD Utes come in a wide range. With Single Cab, Club Cab, and Double Cab chassis styles as well as a double cab pickup. These are the GLX, GLX  Plus and GLX – R

The more recreational 4WD vehicle styles include the GLS and GSR. Unusually buyers can opt for these with a dual cab chassis format. These also come with a slightly different suspension setup aimed for more comfort.

All models come with a 2.4L bi turbo diesel engine. This provides some 154kW of power and 470Nm of torque.

The entry level 2WD work Ute comes with a 6 Sp manual transmission. Every other model comes with a 6 Sp automatic transmission. This is tried and tested reliable transmission.

4WD models come with a version of the Mitsubishi Super Select 4WD system.

Triton is rated to tow 3500 kg along with a 350 kg tow ball rating.

Pricing for the Mitsubishi Triton ranges from $34,490 through to $63,840 plus the usual costs. Given the pricing of other Utes the Triton remains excellent value.

However, the Triton remains a dependable, robust, 4WD Ute that is comfortable to drive around town. As well as capable of heading to the most remote parts of Australia.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Mitsubishi Triton – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Mitsubishi Triton – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Mitsubishi Triton – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, KGM Musso, Kia Tasman, GWM Cannon, LDV T60

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

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It looks beautiful. Inside its luxury, comfort and practicality all the way. Of all the large 4WDs I drive the Defender fits me best.

The Sedona edition comes with the 3.0L Twin Turbo In-line 6 Cylinder Diesel MHEV. This is paired with an  8 speed Automatic Transmission, and dual range 4WD.

The engine delivers healthy performance with power of 258kW @ 4,000 rpm and Torque of 700Nm @ 1,500-3,000 rpm. Defender will happily tow 3500 kg.

Land Rover Defender strikes almost a perfect balance between luxury SUV and practical 4WD. It has the rode and handling of a Range Rover Sport and the legendary off road capability that matches the best in the industry. However, with this particular vehicle I wouldn’t venture too far off road with 22 inch alloy wheels.

Priced from $134,705 the Land Rover Defender Sedona 110 D350 also had some options that took the price to $143,165 plus the usual costs. Given the price of its competition, that’s stunning value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Defender 110 Sedona – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Defender 110 Sedona – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Defender 110 Sedona – buyers could look at:

It’s a competitive segment.

There is of course the popular Toyota LandCruiser 300 Sahara ZX, Lexus LX, Audi Q8, Genesis GV80, Nissan Patrol Ti-L

 Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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This is the mid-range model that comes with leather seats, soft padding on touch points, wireless smart phone connectivity and charging tray. There is an optional pack that adds heated front seats and power adjustment for driver seat.

It has a smaller central screen compared to other Utes, but it is functional and easy to use.

Outside it comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, Tub liner, heated exterior mirrors, LED lighting and more.

The Triton comes with a 2.4 L twin turbo diesel engine with power of 150 kW and 470 Nm of torque between 1500 rpm to 2750 rpm. This is combined with a six speed AT and the Super Select 4WD -ll system with Terrain Control. The GLS also comes with active Yaw control and a standard rear diff lock.

This combination is particularly good for both on and off-road driving.

The latest Triton maintained its 4WD capability while substantially improving its on road ride and handling. In fact, the GLS with its standard rear suspension is amongst the best on road riding and handling Utes on the market.

The Triton GLS will tow 3500 kg and has a payload of around 1000 kg.

Priced from around $59,000 plus the usual costs the Triton GLS is excellent value. This model had the $1500 option pack that includes Black leather trim, heated front seats and power drivers seat.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Triton GLS – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Triton GLS  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Triton GLS – buyers could look at:

It’s a competitive segment.

There is of course the popular Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger 2.0L, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, SsangYong Musso, LDV T60,

Triton GLS Specific additions

 Stepping up to the Triton GLS brings a sophisticated look and feel, combined with Mitsubishi’s legendary Super Select 4WD II system.

Drivetrain and Chassis:

• Super Select 4WD-II
• Terrain Control
• Hill Descent Control
• Standard Rear Suspension

Exterior:

• New 18” Alloy wheels
• Bedliner
• Heated, electrically-adjusted power folding door mirrors.
• Privacy Glass (rear windows)
• LED lighting (headlamps, DRLs, front fog lamps, side turn lamps, rear tail, and brake lamps)
• MITSUBISHI embossed gloss black grille
• Chrome ‘Dynamic Shield’ front fascia design

Interior:

• Interior trim: Soft padding surfaces with silver accent stitching and trim garnishes

Comfort and Convenience:

• Dual zone auto air conditioning
• Auto dimming rear view mirror (frameless type)
• Keyless entry with 2 transmitters
• Keyless Operating System (KOS)
• One Touch Engine Start Switch (OSS)
• Smartphone wireless charger

 Triton GLS Leather Option

 For an additional $1500, the GLS Leather Option further lifts the interior ambience with the following:

• Seat Trim Material: Leather with silver stitching
• Power Driver’s Seat adjustment
• Heated Front Seats

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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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These include:

• 18-inch machined alloy wheels
• Front LED fog lamps
• LED headlamps with auto-levelling
• Power-folding exterior mirrors
• Side-steps
• Signature daytime running lamps (DRL)
• Tow bar with receiver, tongue and wiring harness (pickup models only)
• Tub liner (pickup models only)
• 9-inch full-colour touchscreen
• Advanced keyless entry
• Dual-zone climate control
• Satellite navigation
• Tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

The BT-50 XTR  comes with the same robust 3.0 litre diesel engine with 6 speed automatic transmission. It will still do all the towing and 4WD activities that the BT-50 is well known for.

While the front seats and dash are spacious and well laid out, rear seat leg room is a touch restricted. Like most Utes this size. There are two isofix and top tether points for baby seats. But to be honest a Ute isn’t perhaps the best choice for everything you need for a baby.

Priced from  $62,750 plus the usual costs it’s not bad value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

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

TO LISTEN TO THE BT-50 XTR – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What is good?

• Subtle exterior styling
• 4WD and towing capability
• Interior layout and ergonomics

What is not so good?

• No hybrid version
• Rear space restricted for child seats.
• No tie down points in front of tub

Mazda BT-50 buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the BT-50 GT could look at: Toyota HiLux SR, Isuzu D-Max , Ford Ranger Sport, Kia Tasman SX+, Nissan Navara -STX, Mitsubishi Triton GLS. SsangYong Musso XLV

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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 Mazda BT-50 XTR 4WD Dual Cab Ute 2025 review appeared first on Motoring Minute.