We’ve recalibrated this class somewhat for 2024. Formerly known as Light Commercial (LCV), we’ve evolved it into Lifestyle/Adventure.
Don’t worry: the ever-popular genre of 1-tonne utes is still at the core. But given how many are used for family/lifestyle purposes as well as (or in some cases instead of) work, we’ve opened things up to also include SUVs with genuine 4x4 ability; ie those that can take you well off the beaten track in a similar way, most often with ladder-frame underpinnings and low-range 4WD (yes, just like utes).
Indeed, the two genres are coming ever-closer together. Each new ute update seems to bring more-and-more comfort and convenience features, while those SUVs that do aspire to proper off-tarmac work are getting more and capable in the rough stuff.
FORD RANGER
The Ranger is a multiple award-winner on these pages and with good reason. Its blend of impressive off-road and tow ability is combined with a staggeringly large model range, Ford seemingly finding endless variations on the Ranger theme to surprise and delight.
You can already buy anything from a basic cab-chassis to the epic twin-turbo petrol-V6 Raptor (a true Ford Performance product). The Wildtrak is firmly established as one of the most aspirational lifestyle vehicles in NZ of any type. New Ranger gems this year have included the Tremor, with an upgraded AWD system and suspension inspired by Raptor.
There’s more to come next year, too, including the long-awaited Ranger PHEV, and a special Stormtrak version.
SUZUKI JIMNY
The current Jimny has been around since 2019 and to be honest, it hasn’t changed a whole in 50-plus years. That’s part of the appeal.
What’s thrust the little Suzuki into the COTY limelight is the addition of the 5dr model this year, which is arguably the biggest change for the model in its history. It’s still tiny – shorter than a Swift – but the extra length makes Jimny vastly more appealing for families, with decent rear seats and 2.5 times the luggage space of the 3dr.
Retro looks are a big part of the Jimny’s popularity. But it’s also one of the world’s great 4x4 machines, with a ladder-frame and low-range; for a combination of fashion and off-road-function it’s hard to beat.
MITSUBISHI TRITON
Triton is an absolute institution in NZ, with more than 50,000 sold since the nameplate was introduced. Given the long model cycles of most 1-tonne uters, the introduction of an all-new version is a major event.
That’s exactly what the latest Triton is: fresh platform and ladder-frame, fresh engine. The twin-turbo diesel has increased power by 10%, upped driver-satisfaction by way more than that and enhanced eco-cred with the addition of AdBlue for a cleaner diesel exhaust.
Mitsubishi’s excellent Super Select full-time AWD system has been updated and is now standard across the range; a real talking point when most utes are still 2WD-only for on-road use.
Practical features include a mounting point in the tray for a piece of 4x2, to help secure loads. Mitsubishi understands the Kiwi way.