But now based on the Triton platform, it will be available from December this year.

Interest has been strong with over 3000 potential buyers registering.

It will come in three different versions. The entry GLS with a choice of either five or seven seats. The Exceed and the sporty GSR.

All come with

• 4L Euro 6 turbo diesel engine with 150kW of power and 480Nm of torque.
• This drives all wheels through the respected Super Select 4WD-II system
• Supporting this is Super-All Wheel Control with 7 drive modes with Active Yaw Control
• An updated eight speed Automatic Transmission
• And rear diff locks.

The modern design pays homage to the original Pajero’s while bringing futuristic style elements.

Inside its spacious, comfortable and luxurious. Especially in the Exceed version.

Seating design is inspired by rally experience, offering exceptional support in the bolsters to reduce fatigue and a range of adjustability to tailor the experience.

Powered lumbar support is available across the range. Something my ageing back appreciates.

All models get the full suite if safety features as well.

Pajero offers a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity, while Trailer Load Assist (TLA) actively enhances stability while towing.

Many regular listeners will know I own a Pajero as my personal car. Its over 23 years old now, has something like 250,000km on it and has been to most outback places in Australia.

Im a big fan of the true 4WD capability. Even though its old it still remains a robust reliable 4WD.

Pricing for the new Pajero starts from around $68,500 through to around $85,000 all plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

A full review of the Mitsubishi Pajero can be found HERE.

 TO LISTEN TO THE Mitsubishi Pajero  – 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.

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 Mitsubishi Pajero returns to the Australian market appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This 4WD capability comes from the combination of

• A Borg Warner dual range 4WD system,
• Dana Axles and diffs with a Rear diff lock on the V9-L and front and rear diff locks on the V9-S,
• ZF 8 speed Automatic transmission, and
• All Terrain tyres as standard
• Foton Tunland combines the best of available technology.

Its quite capable off road. With double wishbone front suspension. And Multi-Link Rigid Axle rear suspension for a smoother ride. It’s  closer to an SUV feel with elevated off-road capability.

Other key 4WD features include

• 28 degree approach angle,
• 21 degree rampover and
• 26 degree departure angle.
• 240mm of ground clearance.
• To put that into perspective the ground clearance is more than most Ford Ranger or Toyota HiLux models.
• Wading depth of 700mm
• And excellent wheel articulation.

Give all this capability comes at a price of less than $50,000 plus the usual costs. Buyers should start to question why they would buy a normal sized 4WD Ute for $60-$70,000 plus .

The Tunland has more space inside, seating for five in comfort and more luxurious interior trim. Add to that a larger tub and in many cases more payload.

Priced from $49,990 plus the usual costs.  You could buy a Tunland V9 and a camper trailer for the price of a mid-spec Ford Ranger.

This is a Motoring Minute

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 V9 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What is good?

• Absolutely stunning value for money
• Stylish mid-sized design
• Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

• It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
• No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
• Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

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

Potential choices could be.

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

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• Foton Tunland V9 Exterior – Long term test week 1
• Part one Foton Tunland Long Term test
• 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.

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 FOTON Tunland V9 4WD Capability appeared first on Motoring Minute.

With a smooth hexagonal grill that seamlessly incorporates dual LED headlights. Fog lights and DRLs,  it presents well. Lower body coloured bumper adds to the appeal.

From the side, the V9 looks equally impressive. A large body, raised stance and chunky wheel arches, with black fender flares give it plenty of road presence. The gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels suit the design well, adding to its rugged appearance without making it look overly aggressive.

The proportions of the Tunland V9 are another highlight. At over 5.6 metres long and more than two metres wide, it is a large Ute, and you can definitely see that in its design.

The high ground clearance makes it look ready for rougher terrain, while features such as the side steps, sports bar and roof rails add to its practical, adventure-ready appearance.

Around the back, the V9 keeps the design clean and functional, with integrated LED taillights, sculptured bumper and a large tray that reminds you this is still a working Ute.

Overall, the exterior combines rugged styling with modern details surprisingly well. It may not have the badge recognition of some of its rivals, but the Tunland V9 certainly has the looks to stand alongside them.

This is a Motoring Minute

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 V9 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What is good?

• Absolutely stunning value for money
• Stylish mid-sized design
• Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

• It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
• No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
• Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

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

Potential choices could be.

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

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• Part one Foton Tunland Long Term test
• 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.

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 Foton Tunland V9 Exterior – Long term test week 1 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

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.

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 JAC Hunter PHEV Dual Cab Ute now available 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

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

For our first family getaway, we loaded the Toyota Prado with everything that comes with travelling with bub — the pram, bassinet, play mat, suitcases, toys, nappy bag and all the extras that somehow multiply overnight.

What surprised me most was the boot space.

At first glance, it didn’t look huge, and I honestly wasn’t sure everything would fit.

But once we started packing, the Prado swallowed it all surprisingly well.

Everything had its place, and we didn’t have to leave anything behind or play an intense game of luggage Tetris.

Cruising up the Motorway to Byron Bay proved effortless. The Prado is so smooth, with enough performance and economy to make driving easy.

We played nursery rhymes, which isn’t our usual choice of travelling music,  but it kept bub asleep. It’s a long drive, with a lot of breaks, but we felt relaxed and comfortable every time we stopped.

For a family holiday, that’s exactly what you want.

It made travelling with bub feel that little bit easier, and after a weekend away, the Prado definitely proved itself as a practical family SUV.

Its easy to see why Prados are so popular with families and gets the Mum and Bub tick of approval.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Motoring minute video reviews

Instagram reels on Toyota Prado GX and Baby Duties

• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVpPvWQTyZt/
• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVe74vojzi7/

Readers can find more details about the Prado GX  – HERE

You can download the full Prado GX Brochure HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Toyota Prado GX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Toyota Prado GX – Buyers could also look at:

There is strong competition with:

• KGM Rexton
• Isuzu MU-X 
• Ford Everest
• GWM Tank 500

Alternative SUVs include:

• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 508 GT Hybrid
• Mazda CX-70
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Subaru Outback
• VW Tayron

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 Toyota Prado GX on baby duties for a Trip to Byron Bay appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Its powerful V8 engine became a defining feature, delivering the kind of performance, sound, and character that many believe cannot be replicated by smaller turbocharged engines.

There is a genuine sense of sadness surrounding the decision to stop production. The V8 Patrol represented more than just a vehicle; it symbolised adventure, durability, and a distinctly Australian love for large-capacity engines.

The deep rumble of the V8, combined with the Patrol’s rugged design, created an experience that owners proudly identified with. For many families, a Patrol was present during camping holidays, towing trips, and countless memories made on the road.

Understanding the reasons behind the change does little to lessen the disappointment felt by loyal fans. Many enthusiasts worry that future models, while more advanced and environmentally friendly, may lack the raw personality and mechanical simplicity that made the V8 Patrol so beloved.

While new vehicles will bring innovation and improved efficiency, the V8 Nissan Patrol will be remembered as one of the great icons of Australian motoring, leaving behind a legacy that few four-wheel drives can match.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

A full product brochure can be found HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Nissan Patrol V8– HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Nissan Patrol V8– RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Nissan Patrol V8– Buyers could also look at:

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

• Toyota LandCruiser 300
• Land Rover Defender
• Land Rover Discovery
• Lexus LX Overtrail 
• Toyota Prado, 
• INEOS Grenadier,
• Hyundai Palisade XRT

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 Nissan Patrol V8– the end of an Era appeared first on Motoring Minute.

As I mentioned I have driven the top spec MUX-X-Terrain. A new model with all the luxuries and the 3.0 litre turbo diesel engine along with a six speed automatic transmission.

The other model I drove is the next one down, the LS-T but with the 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine and an eight speed automatic transmission.

Both of these are 4WD models. There is a base two wheel drive model with the smaller engine available.

Around town you do notice more changing between the gears in the smaller engine model. Economy is marginally better.

On highway cruising both engines hum along nicely. Again, you notice that the smaller engine will hunt more between the gears on hills etc. It’s also about one litre per 100 kilometres better in fuel.

I haven’t towed anything or taken them off road, using them purely as  family transport.

Pricing for the Isuzu MU-X starts at around $49,900 dollars through to $77,100 dollars all plus the usual costs. There is usually about $2,000 dollars difference between the engine choices.

Overall, I found the MU-X an ideal family SUV. It has the practicality of seven seats, the promise of 4WD adventures and the safety features to keep the family protected.

Isuzu MU-X gets the mum and bub tick of approval.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Some other Isuzu MU-X Motoring Minute reviews:

• Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain 2025 review
• Touring holiday to Byron Bay –  X-Terrain
• 2025 Model update
• Touring review – LS-U 4×4 1.9L
• Isuzu MU-X 2024 MY driving impressions.

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Isuzu MU-X – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Isuzu MU-X – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Isuzu MU-X – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

There is strong competition with:

• KGM Rexton
• Toyota Prado
• Ford Everest
• GWM Tank 500

Alternative SUVs include:

• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 508 GT Hybrid
• Mazda CX-70
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Kluger
• VW Tayron

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 Isuzu MU-X week three on Mum and Bub duties appeared first on Motoring Minute.

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

VW Amarok Motoring Minute Video review

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)

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 Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition review 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.