ON THE JOB
TWELVE months ago we put the seven most popular dual-cab 4x4s – with automatic transmissions – to a maxxed-out tow and load test. Those utes so specified were asked to tow their claimed 3500kg rating, while those with slightly lower tow ratings (Hilux and Triton) were tested with a 2800kg trailer. Following the tow tests, all the utes were then tested with 800kg in their trays. That weight in the tray, plus driver, observer, towbar, etc. meant a combined payload not far short of 1000kg, so at or near a maximum payload for these utes. For both the tow and the load test, the utes were driven over the same hilly, winding and bumpy road course.
The payload and tow tests were conducted separately, but there was a very strong correlation in the way each ute performed in the separate tests. If a particular ute did well carrying the 800kg in its tub, it also generally did well in the tow test.
Taking into account how the powertrain and the chassis of each ute performed in the tow and load tests, and the theoretical max of what each can carry and tow, we rated the seven utes this way:
1ST – FORD RANGER With the big five-cylinder engine, long wheelbase, extra weight and class-leading GVM and GCM, the Ranger looks the goods on paper and delivered on its promise.
EQUAL 2ND – MAZDA BT-50 It has the same core strengths as its ‘twin’ Ranger, but it lacks the detail improvements that made the MY16+ Ranger a better vehicle.
EQUAL 2ND – HOLDEN COLORADO Plenty of punch from the 2.8-litre diesel, even if it needs more revs than the Ranger or Mazda. A very smart gearbox, and the chassis works well.
4TH – TOYOTA HILUX Primarily held back by the conservative tow rating of the automatic, and it had the lowest payload at test. The chassis is well up to the job, but it needed more grunt from its 2.8-litre diesel to match the best here.
EQUAL 5TH – ISUZU D-MAX Has a worthy chassis, but the engine struggled with either 3500kg or at maximum payload. Since that time, the D-max’s engine has been upgraded and now offers considerably more torque over a wider spread, so it should tow with more authority. EQUAL 5TH – MITSUBISHI TRITON Its engine is willing and able, but the chassis is compromised due to its shorter wheelbase and long rear overhang.
7TH – NISSAN NAVARA The engine may have plenty of punch, but the chassis fell well short of towing 3500kg or carrying maximum payload. Since that test the Navara Series II brings revised suspension … hence this retest.