LCV Magazine May/June 2019

SSANGYONG RHINO • NISSAN NAVARA • 40 YEARS OF MITSUBISHI UTES, PLUS NEW TRITON

May/June 2019 $7.50

9 421900 196159

ISSN 2382-1221

SUV • UTE • VAN • LIGHT-TRUCKS

• NEW SUZUKI VITARA • FULL SUV & UTE GUIDE • NEW TOYOTA HIACE!

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May/June 2019 2

BEHIND THE WHEEL Editor’s thoughts and opinions on this month’s motoring happenings.

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NEWS It’s a busy month. Though in the SUV, ute and LCV world, it’s always busy.

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RHINO-MIGHT SsangYong finally unleashes the Rhino – it’s fast and great value.

10 9 OF DIAMONDS Mazda updates the CX-9 with an upgrade to its spec, but raises a question.

14 TRITON OF FUN It’s big and beastly, but new Mitsubishi Triton is more than just muscle.

17 FIT AT 40 Looking back at the evolution of Mitsubishi’s ute into what it is today.

20 THE MAGNIFICENT SEVENS Our ultimate buyer’s guide to all the seven-seat SUVs on sale.

30 WESTERN UNION Forming a solid relationship with Nissan’s Navara, on the west coast of Oz.

34 LIGHT TRAFIC AREA Renault’s new Trafic Trader van, certainly looks after number one.

36 TAKING STOCK Age, experience and wisdom, Mike Stock tells it like it is, and was.

37 INCOMING What’s new and what’s just been launched in the NZ market.

38 TOW TEST V6 or twin-turbo four, we pit Mercedes X-Class ute against itself.

44 MARKET WRAP: SUV & UTE The new year in the biggest moving automotive sector.

48 MARKET WRAP: LIGHT TRUCKS A look at the market, sales and trends in light-trucks.

50 MUM’S THE WORD SUVing from a family and female perspective, sans pandering or condescension.

51 SHOWROOM Listing all the SUVs, utes, vans and light-trucks on sale.

56 UTE-OPIA Send them in, we’ll show them off.

46 MARKET WRAP: VANS The month in van sales – aka, measuring how much Hiace is leading by.

LCV | 1

SUV • UTE • VAN • LIGHT-TRUCKS

www.lcv.co.nz MANAGEMENT Publisher

Trevor Woolston 027 492 5600 trevor@trucker.co.nz

Advertising

Dion Rout 027 491 1110 dion@trucker.co.nz

EDITORIAL Editor

Dean Evans dean@trucker.co.nz

Contributors

Mike Stock, Cory Martin, Robin Yates, Arna Evans, Olivia Beauchamp

ART DEPARTMENT Design & Production

Luca Bempensante Zarko Mihic

MARKETING

Lisana De Castro

ADMINISTRATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS Administration Manager

Sue Woolston

Subscriptions

accounts@trucker.co.nz

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PRINTING Nicholson Print Solutions DISTRIBUTION Ovato Retail Distribution Publication: NZ LCV is published by Allied Publications Ltd. ISSN 2382-1221 Contributions: Editorial contributions are welcomed for consideration, but no responsibility is accepted for loss or damage of submitted materials (photographs, graphics, printed material etc…). If the return of material is required please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Please contact the editor by mail, fax, or email prior to submitting material. LCV reserves the right to edit submitted material.

Copyright: Articles in LCV are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form – in whole or part – without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher.

NZ Light Commercial Vehicles Magazine

FEBRUARY 2007 DOESN’T SEEM THAT long ago, unless it’s specified as 12 years ago. That’s the same time back, that the year 2031 is forward. And in that time, it’s obvious to state that a lot of things change. YouTube was celebrating its second anniversary, and Facebook its third.

And this humble magazine was launched, as Cargo magazine. A trade journal predominantly focussing on the pure trade and commercial market, its purpose was to profile and highlight the needs of a commercial vehicle buyer and owner. Over the past 12 years, the name changed to Light Commercial Vehicle, and then LCV, but magazines themselves have expanded into the digital world, everyone has an opinion, and underlining it all is the fact that people are still buying these commercial vehicles and looking for independent, trustworthy buying advice.

And in a market that’s extremely busy, it’s a challenge to just keep track of the news. Hino, Fuso and Isuzu are the top light-truck sellers in NZ, and all showed 2018 to be a solid year, with product launches and updates.

In the van market, we’re about to see something we haven’t seen in decades: a new Toyota Hiace! As any courier, delivery or people mover or any one of the 2000 people or companies

who purchase a Hiace every year will attest, it’s been a reliable, dependable and long-standing design, though its somewhat dated cab-overengine design update is long overdue to bring safety standards into the 2020s.

And of course we can’t forget the boom of the ute and SUV markets over recent years. The ute has always had a solid partnership with Kiwis, but with the introduction of safety standards a few years back - mandatory ESP springs to mind - the humble ute is now perceived and considered as the all-purpose family vehicle for a lot more families, rather than just the farmer or tradie. And with tech improvements, the gap between the road car and the work ute has almost vanished, with utes now brandishing tech such as radar cruise control, automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition and every-day conveniences like smartphone mirroring.

This issue we drove the new SsangYong Rhino and part of it took me back to the 1990s.

After a string of driving utes recently such as Colorado, BT-50, Ranger, Hilux and Triton, parking the Rhino in the same car parking bay, it looked shrunk! Like a lowered mini-truck from the West Coast USA boom in the ’90s when and where the ute was a fashion statement more than a workhorse. Maybe it was the grey of the petrol 2WD model, maybe it’s the stubbiness of the design, but it almost looked cute, despite it being just 20-30cm shorter than those aforementioned double-cab rivals. And with a 2.0-litre turbo, also very ’90s quick, too.

The Sport Utility Vehicle has become a mainstay over the past decades and what used to be perceived as acceptance of middle-age and forfeiting of youth is now embraced by all ages, with a range of offerings, from the tiny Suzuki Jimny, to the hulking Lamborghini Urus, and tech leaders like the Tesla Model X. While the months just drip away and we’re already approaching the mid-point of 2019, it’s good to stop and reflect and realise it’s getting better and easier to enjoy driving, whatever the vehicle you’ve chosen or been chosen for you, work, rest or play.

Readership 2018

22,500

www.lcv.co.nz

Dean Evans – dean@trucker.co.nz

www.facebook.com/NZLCVmag

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A DONATION FROM EACH RHINO SOLD WILL GO TO SAVING THE WILD.

THE ALL-NEW RHINO IS A REAL PICK-UP WITH REAL STYLE. ONE THING IT’S CERTAINLY PICKING UP IS PRAISE. NO WONDER. IT’S A BIG, BOLD, BEAUTY. A STYLISHLY VERSATILE PICK-UP WITH GIANT-SIZED TOW CAPACITY. THE ALL-NEW RHINO CAN HANDLE WHATEVER YOU THROW AT IT OR INTO IT. THE NEW RHINO MAY BE A SERIOUSLY STRONG PICK-UP TRUCK. BUT IT DRIVES LIKE AN SUV. TRY IT FOR YOURSELF. • Petrol or Diesel Engines • Automatic or Manual • 2WD or 4WD • Outstanding Tow Capacity • Full Rigid High Strength Frame • 5 Seats • Superb Safety Systems • Beautifully Appointed Interior Materials • 8 inch high-definition touchscreen which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto • plus a whole lot more | TEST DRIVE TODAY

SsangYong Rhino from

$25,990 +GST & ORC

Find your nearest dealer Ph: 0800 772 649 or visit ssangyong.co.nz

HAYMAN REESE HAS RELEASED THE LATEST innovation in towbars, the X-Bar. Designed specifically for cab-chassis 4WDs, the X-Bar meets the three most important needs for off-road enthusiasts.

X-Bar is the first towbar to come standard

with three recovery points rated to a maximum of 8000kg, and features increased thickness side and centre plates, as well as forged recovery points and trailer ball mount.

It’s positioned 100mm higher than a standard towbar for maximum ground clearance over rough terrain and an integrated bash plate keeps wiring safe and out of the way. To keep trailer plugs protected, the X-Bar has dual plug points in between the top plate and bash plate.

X-Bar comes standard with MetalShield™ two-stage paint protection, SmartClick™ vehicle specific wiring solutions and bolt bag, and covers 10 of the most popular cabchassis utes.

Price: $1667.50RRP (plus fitting and wiring) Where: Hayman Reese stockists across NZ

THE ALL-NEW 2019 TOYOTA HIACE WILL

Sign Assist and Automatic High Beam.

“Hiace has been a faithful partner in cargo and people transport for decades,” Neeraj said. “One thing that makes Hiace so popular is its customisation and reliability.” The new Hiace range

launch in New Zealand in May. “It has been 15 years since the previous generation of Hiace was released,” says Neeraj Lala, Toyota GM New Vehicles and Product. The new generation Hiace brings an all new shape, comprehensive safety features and improved versatility with the ability to be tailored.

Most obvious is the shift from a cab-overengine to a semi-bonnet design, which has allowed a number of significant and somewhat mandatory upgrades to the venerable van.

The semi-bonnet means the front wheels are positioned ahead of the front seats for increased quietness and comfort, and allows for more interior and storage space up front. Other benefits of the longer wheelbase include improved straight-line and overall stability.

The new Hiace is wider and longer however with a new drivetrain and platform, increases to payload and towing capacities across the range allow for greater cargo flexibility.

There’s also a pre-collision system with Autonomous Emergency Braking for vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles, Lane Departure Alert with brake control, Road

4 | LCV

BE SURE TO LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOR all the latest news, photos, videos and a bit of fun from the world of SUVs, utes, vans and light trucks. We have the largest following in the LCV/SUV/Ute market, and populate news as it happens. Find and Like us at facebook.com/nzlcvmag and be sure to interact (like, comment, share) at least once every 30 days so Facebook’s algorthyms don’t drop us off your feed.

LCV also publishes a fortnightly email newsletter, sign up at www.lcv.co.nz.

will include a variety of seating layout to meet needs of owners, drivers and passengers.

For LCV’s full drive review following the NZ launch, follow us at facebook.com/ nzlcvmag.

T-LOAD FOR MORE THE RHINO-RACK T-LOAD MOUNT ALLOWS you to easily load your kayak, ladders and other long loads onto your vehicle. The T-Load Tow Ball Mount fits 50mm tow balls and includes an anti-rotation bracket and mounts to 2-inch and 1¼-inch hitches. Simply lower the T-Load, and use it as leverage to load a kayak, canoe, ladder or any long and heavy gear onto your vehicle’s roof with ease. Priced at $449, and available in Tow Ball Mount or Hitch Mount versions from Rhino Rack retailers.

WE FEATURED HIS FORD TRUCK LAST ISSUE, AND NOW AMERICAN Gymkhana YouTube/rally/you-really-should-know-him Ken Block has built a pair of Ford Transit vans to support his Ford Escort rally programme. Running 4WD to access off-road, the vans also get a two-inch lift, all-terrain Toyo tyres, light bars inside and out for driving and night servicing, while the spare was moved to the tailgate to maximise cargo space. There’s also airbag suspension for uneven ground, 110v and 230v sockets for both American and European power tools, and even a tea kettle, due to the number of Brits on the programme. The second van was built as a people mover for the crew.

To see the full story, YouTube: Ken Block’s Rally Service Ford Transit Vans. Better yet, the vans, Ken, and his Escort Cosworth, will be racing in the Rally of Whangarei on May 4-6.

LCV | 5

Story & photos: Dean Evans

RHINO-MIGH RHINO-MIGHT

Following a fortuitous delay and subsequent name change, SsangYong’s Rhino nee-Musso has arrived, and it does the double-cab ute job just a little differently.

SOME SILVER LININGS HAVE MORE lustre than others, and when the SsangYong Musso, slated for its NZ launch in the second half of 2018 was delayed, it turned out to be serendipitous. Due to global demand, the latest generation of the Musso ute was able to fufill just a handful of confirmed orders of the top-spec SPR model, from its Fieldays 2018 debut. But NZ had to wait, and in the following six months, with SsangYong Actyon selling every last one of its outgoing Actyon Sports utes, the SsangYong agency came across a better idea, plan and programme - and it all came together.

SsangYong New Zealand comissioned some market research and an overwhelming response decided that the Rhino was a better name than the Musso (which is Korean for rhino, anyway), and NZ became the first global arm to rename the fourth-generation Q200 SsangYong ute the Rhino. Of course it doesn’t just muster the images of rugged, tough and sturdy; the local importer – Great Lakes Motor Distributors – leveraged the name even further by enlisting rhinoceros conservationist and activist Jamie Joseph as the brand and model ambassador, along with a TV campaign promoting some powerful TV ads and her organisation, Saving the Wild.

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So to the Rhino: a new, three-model range, topping out with the $50k (with GST) 4WD turbo diesel SPR, down to a mid-level Sport, and starting at a low $25,990 ex-GST for the petrol 2WD manual model. Auto is a $4k option in 2WD, $2k in Sport, and the only gearbox of choice in SPR. Launched in ‘S’ for short models first, it’s a relatively compact ute, and at 5.095m, with a 1.3m long tray, is about 20-30cm shorter than a Ranger or Hilux. So that could make it immediately more appealing to tradies or those who don’t need that extra tray length.

For those who do, the ‘XL’ long tray version will fill the range between April and July, and adds 310mm to the tray, bringing it to the

same length and specs as Hilux, Ranger and Navara, and increases payload from 850kg to 1060kg.

The petrol model formed a solid part of the previous Actyon range, accounting for 45 percent of sales, and it’s easy to see why in Rhino. A 2.0-litre turbo engine with 19psi boost and RWD makes it supremely fast for the segment – in fact it’s the fastest non-V6 double-cab ute on sale in NZ, quicker than even a 500Nm Colorado. With 350Nm, there’s solid torque, with a tow rating of 2800kg for the petrol (3500kg diesel). Rhino steers well, particularly in the lighter-engined petrol models, and offers a decent lot of tech, such as keyless starting, cruise control,

A delay allowed time for the SsangYong marketers to change the name from Musso to Rhino and a brilliant symbiotic marketing campaign was born. traction control, A/C and Bluetooth. There’s also a 12v power socket in the deck, both front and rear seats are quite comfortable and softly padded, though six-footers are about the limit in the second row.

A decent 11.8m turning circle is good for the market (same as Triton), and underneath is bolted a five-link coil spring rear suspension, taken from the Rexton. This is actually a case of reverse engineering, as the normal way is to adapt the SUV from the ute, not this way around. The result, oddly, is a little less successful though, as the only real issue is the Rhino’s ride quality, which is worse depending on the model: it’s jittery and very fussy over small, high amplitude bumps, the kind that shakes fillings from teeth and affects speech, and we found it worst in the 17-inch wheel 2WD base model. Even the 20-inch alloys on the SPR proved slightly more compliant, though the diesel Sport offers a little more weight to settle the springs, and 17-inch wheels, for the best ride of the range. It’s better with a load in the back, while Rhino XL versions are fitted with rear leaf springs onto the ladder chassis.

The only glaring omission/requirement in the 2WD is a reverse camera or parking sensors, though they become standard moving up the range to the Sport and SPR models.

Other additions in the mid/up-spec models include CarPlay/Auto, 360 degree monitoring cameras, power, heated and vented seats, dual-zone climate control, DRLs, rear crosstraffic alert, hill-hold and descent control,

Opposite page, bottom: SPR interior is straight from impressive Rexton, and offers leather, CarPlay, cruise, low/high 4WD and dual-zone climate control.

1-2: Rear seat is basic, but comfortable, with air vents and fold-down armrest/ cupholders.

3-5: SPR also adds a colour info display in the dash, 360 degree camera, and part-time

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high/low 4WD, also offered in the Sport.

6: Tray may be relatively short in the S SWB model, but XL adds 310mm to the tray length, offering a choice for buyers, at a cost “less than $3k” at the time of writing.

7: Ride is firm and a bit jittery on base 2WD and 20-inch-shod SPR models, but the mid-spec diesel Sport offers the best compromise.

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The petrol 2.0-litre turbo Rhino charges fast! In fact it’s the quickest non-V6 ute in NZ, faster than even the previous dual-cab king, Holden’s 500Nm Colorado.

LCV | 7

blind-spot and lane change warnings, plus part-time 4WD with high and low-range, ensuring plenty on offer whatever the budget.

There’s even Nappa leather in the SPR model, whose interior is quite appealing.

The diesel engine obviously offers more torque, and at 420Nm at 22psi boost, it’s not far off the top names, though it drops to 400Nm with the manual gearbox, and the steering is a little heavier. Tow rating also rises to 3500kg, and it tends to lug and chug through its gears with more muscle than speed, though it’s still one of the faster ute

diesels. Being an Aisin six-speed auto, there’s both a mode switch to cycle between Sport and Normal modes (Eco is default), and a manual gate and thumb-lever on the shifter to select the right gear before it’s needed – upshifts remain automatic.

With a five-year 100,000km transferable warranty, it adds up to an appealing package.

SsangYong’s Rhino hits it targets of practicality, performance and price square on, offers a great choice of petrol, diesel, short- or long wheelbase, and does it while saving rhinos, with a donation from every Rhino sold.

SPEC CHECK SsangYong Rhino Engine:

2.0 turbo petrol, 2.2 turbo diesel fours

Power:

166kW/350Nm, 133kW/420Nm (400Nm man)

Gearbox:

Six-speed manual/auto

Economy:

7.9-10.7l/100km

Weight:

1960-2192kg

Turning circle:

11.8m

0-60/100km/h:

3.9sec/9.1sec (petrol) 3.8sec/10.4sec (diesel)

0-400m:

17.3@124km/h (petrol) 17.1@125km/h (diesel)

Price:

$25,990-$43,490

Rating (/5) Verdict:

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Great value, fast, imperfect but impressive

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Mazda adds an elite ‘Takami’ spec to the CX-9 range, but against the brilliant CX-8, the question becomes which model better suits?

IN THE MARKET FOR SEVEN-SEAT SUVS, there’s a huge choice, as the buyer’s guide in this issue proves. Having recently awarded the SUV of the year to Mazda’s CX-8 sevenseater, it’s no secret it’s on our shortlist of favourites – though another from within its own family is one of its biggest competitors.

But is it really?

Mazda’s CX-9 has long held a strong sway with buyers and for good reason. But with no update in 2018, it left its (slightly) smaller stablemate to vie for SUV honours. Not so in 2019 with Mazda releasing an update to the range in the form of a Takami spec, Mazda’s way of saying luxury top-spec.

First seen in the 2018 Mazda6, the Takami grade features bespoke content including Nappa leather trim, authentic Rosewood panels and genuine aluminium trims. And a range of updates through all three models.

So with the CX-8 and CX-9 offering outstanding packages, the question effectively changes from ‘should I buy a

Mazda CX seven-seat?’ to ‘which Mazda CX seven-seat should I buy?’

The answer can appear rather easy: with so many sound and solid practical similarities, it’s the subtle differences that count and matter. The most obvious one is the engine and fuel choice. Rather than the 2.2-litre turbo diesel in CX-8, the CX-9 runs only a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder.

With 30kW more and 30Nm less than the diesel, the CX-9 also has almost 50kg of extra ballast to haul, and with the petrol engine that’s spread thick with power and torque across the range, it’s never short of performance, always half a car-length or two of the CX-8.

Oddly, it doesn’t sound as good as the CX8’s melodic, warbling diesel, and of course it’s nowhere near as frugal. While the diesel’s claim is 6.0l/100km, our more rigorous driving netted in the 8l/100km range for the CX-8 diesel; and equally, while CX-9 claims 8.8l/100km, our test driving style and mostly

similar urban work saw 10-point-something with the CX-9 petrol. And with ULP more expensive, and diesel more economical, using the NZTA petrol vs diesel calculator still reveals the diesel to be cheaper by a few thousand dollars over 10,000km per year, even when considering RUC and registration costs.

Of course the CX-9 offers more space, right?

Well, yes, but it’s not a huge difference.

We established how large and comfortable the interior of the CX-8 was in our Jan/Feb 19 comparison, and the CX-9 is longer by 165mm (4900mm to 5065mm). It contributes a lot of this to boot space, particularly when the third row is raised, adding an element of practicality to the CX-9, which is also wider, 1969mm versus CX-8’s 1840mm. And though the two SUVs sit on the same wheelbase, the CX-9 has a slightly larger turning circle at 11.8 vs 11.6m.

The front seats are certainly well accommodated for in the CX-9 and

CX-9 or CX-8? That depends if you like diesel or petrol, because in so many ways, Mazda’s large seven-seat SUV twins are remarkably similar.

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Top image: Takami interior is as nice as they come, and with Nappa leather, heated steering wheel, large Head-Up Display, plus touchscreen, traffic sign recognition and more, there aren’t many interiors nicer than this under $100,000 1-3: Rear seats are just as comfortable as front, and accommodated with reclining and fore-aft adjustment and heated seats, armrest with dual USB ports and climate control.

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4-5: Third row isn’t as featured as the front two rows, but is equally comfortable, with some practical storage either side and good side vision.

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LCV | 11

especially in the Takami cabin, there isn’t much lacking. All three models of CX-9 now get Carplay/Auto, plus a suite of safety tech, such as radar cruise control, lane departure, auto emergency braking and auto high-beam headlights, amongst street sign recognition, programmable-height power tailgate and so much more. Handling and ride have also been improved through suspension and steering, while NVH has been refined via the headliner.

All CX-9s are now all-wheel drive, with a large Head-Up Display, heated steering wheel and mirrors, plus a 360-degree monitor with seven-inch touchscreen display.

The second row is looked after with adjustable heated seats with flip-forward child-seat function, climate control and a flip-down centre armrest, with cupholders, storage and dual USB ports. Even the third row has storage bins either side, and very comfortable seats, even for adults.

So more than anything else, it probably comes down to pricing. And with the topspec CX-8 Limited at $62,495, there’s a little crossover with the CX-9 range starting at $59,695 for the GSX, $65,295 for the Limited (a $2800 difference), and $67,895 for the top-line Takami. For just a $5400 step up in the larger, faster CX-9, that’s a tough choice, maybe even made a little easier with a dealer keen to make a deal on either model.

Aftersales is also covered with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty plus roadside assistance, and Mazda servicing for three years/100,000km.

Those are the facts which should help turn the choice from hard to easy.

SPEC CHECK Mazda CX-9 Engine:

2.5-litre turbo petrol four

Power:

170kW/420Nm

Gearbox:

Six-speed auto

Economy:

8.8l/100km

Weight:

2000kg

Turning circle:

11.8m

0-60/100km/h:

3.5sec/8.0sec

0-400m:

15.8@138km/h

Price:

$59,695-$67,895

Rating (/5) Verdict:

12 | LCV

CX-8 or CX-9, tough choice

I’M VERY MOTIVATED TO GET BEHIND the wheel of any SUV that comes through the LCV garage, and when it’s a sevenseater, even more so. So when the Takami grade CX-9 arrived, given how impressed I was with the CX-8, I was straight into its chocolately leather interior.

Moving all the kids’ seats in to give it a thorough seven-seat test, our large baby capsule tests the dimensions of just about any large SUV, and strapping in is reasonably easy as the buckles – which are often out-ofsight while buckling in seats – are easily ‘felt’ in a recess, but still flush to the seat surface, and click in easily. The long capsule itself really tests rear seat space, and as usual, it rested up against the back of the driver’s seat, requiring just a touch of adjustment from my normal (188cm tall) driving position.

Happy with that: one kid in, two to go.

Second row ISOFIX mounting points are marked, but a little less easy to access, and I had to dig around the leather slit with my index finger to find the mounting bar, extend the booster seat’s clips and uneasily stretch some very new Nappa leather to clip the seat in. First time is always the trickiest, but clipped in, it subsequently, normally presents

a problem for child number three in the third row. With two child seats in the second row – a not uncommon occurrence for the sevenseat buyer – normally access to the third row is via the boot, with one of the third-row seats folded down for rear access. But in this CX9, I’d heard about the special forward-folding function on the passenger side second-row seat. Even with the booster seat clipped in, a reasonably large and padded Recaro, a lever simply pops the seat up and forward to allow ‘conventional’ access to the third row.

Full movement is dictated and potentially restricted a little by the positioning of the front passenger seat, but it makes third row access so much easier and by proxy, improves the practicality of boot space, which no longer needs to be clear for access.

This feature alone is a god-send for big families, and should be used in every sevenseater. So for me, the preference of the diesel CX-8 or the petrol CX-9 goes to the larger SUV, simply for that second row seat function; except CX-9 is just too long for our garage, so it would have to be the CX-8 – which I’ll happily take, with its cheaper running costs.

Arna Evans

Flip-forward function of CX-9 allows boosted seat to remain fixed in position, for access to the third row, and still offers enough room for kids to squeeze through without having to push the front passenger seat forward, which releases even more room.

Sliding the second row seat to the rearmost position gives ample room for our large capsule, for baby Oscar, just touching the rear of the driver’s seat. A quick nudge of the electrics is enough to make it a perfect fit, without jeopardising front seat comfort.

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3.5 Tonne Towing Capacity**

4WD VRX AUTOMATIC

$49,990+ORC* All the features of 4WD GLX-R Manual, plus: •

360° Multi Around View Monitor

•

Leather-Faced Seats with Front Heated & Drivers Power Assist

•

Super Select 4WD with Off Road Mode & Hill Descent Control

•

Blind Spot Warning & Rear Cross Traffic Alert

•

Dual Zone Climate Control

•

6-Speed Auto with Sports Mode and Paddle Shift

•

Chrome Sports Bar

Call 0800 54 53 52 or visit mmnz.co.nz now to find your nearest dealer. *Prices listed are for Triton 2WD GLX-R double cab manual, Triton 4WD GLX-R double cab manual and Triton 4WD VRX double cab auto.

Prices exclude On Road Costs of $700 which includes WoF, registration, 1,000km road user charges and a full tank of fuel. Visit mmnz.co.nz for full Diamond Advantage terms & conditions.**3.5 tonne towing is only possible with a 3-axle braked trailer, towball vertical load of no greater than 4% and an approved MMNZ towbar.

10 year / 160,000km Powertrain Warranty (whichever comes first) (non transferable). 5 year / 130,000km New Vehicle Warranty (whichever comes first) (non transferable).

TRITON OF FUN

Story: Dean Evans

The third best-selling ute of 2018, Mitsubishi’s Triton is a beastly breath of fresh air..

THE PRICE MAY DRAW THE ATTENTION, but there’s a lot more to the new 2019 Mitsubishi Triton that is more than just dollar deep.

A solid marketing campaign promoting a $49,990 ‘top-spec’ price seems to have done a great job for the new Triton, and it doesn’t take long to appreciate and understand why the Mitsubishi ute is flavour of the moment, and how it displaced Holden’s very solid Colorado as third bestselling ute in 2018.

In the game of ticked boxes, utes are famous for falling a little short of their passenger car equivalents, but with every new generation, the gap narrows, and the Triton continues the trend.

With a suite of safety gear such as cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot

warning and crash mitigation, there are also basic features that aren’t always a part of the top utes, such as keyless entry/start, with the start button highly visible on the right side of the dash, tilt ‘and’ reach adjustable steering, a tight 11.8m turning circle, and a touchscreen with CarPlay/Auto and Bluetooth, replete with two front and two rear USB ports and even an HDMI input, plus electric and two-stage heated seats, trip computer, paddle shifters and a selectable high/low 4WD system with hill descent control.

What ‘doesn’t’ it have? Radar cruise control, a head-up display and… well, as far as the expected tech basics are concerned, that’s probably about all it misses out on.

It’s certainly a good looking beast, and the redesign purges the curves and introduces a more masculine appearance,

with a higher bonnet line and fresh, bold Mitsubishi face.

The ride quality is good, too, in line with the current crop of top utes: not too harsh or hard, but firm enough to capably handle a load, with its tow rating up to the standard of 3500kg in 4WD double-cab models; though some in the range have a 3100kg limit.

Behind the wheel, the Triton just does everything asked of it: apart from the practical equipment, its physical agility in tight places that belies its 5305mm length, or the level of comfort for passengers, there’s a drivetrain that’s always able and willing to please: a 2.4-litre MIVEC intercooled turbo diesel, its 135kW/437Nm may not make headlines, but it’s swift, responsive, rarely out of its skills and economical to boot.

Against the clock, it’s in the quick four-

Triton manages to tick lots of the basic boxes that many other top utes don’t: like telescoping steering adjustment.

14 | LCV

So what ‘don’t’ we like about the new Triton? Not a lot! It’s full of tech, looks great, goes well, tows lots and is priced right.

2

4 cylinder group; way faster than a Ranger, BT-50 or Hilux, but slower than a Colorado or Navara. Certainly no issues or complaints about speed, power or torque, with a wide spread of urgency on tap, and rarely a need to mash the pedal into the carpet.

Mitsubishi claims 8.6l/100km, but we’ve seen in real world use, anything under 10l/100km is solid, and our 60/40 mix of motorway/urban driving netted around 9.8l/100km, made a little more difficult by the trip computer that only seems to read the current trip since start-up. Maybe there was a setting, but we didn’t find it: another curiosity was resetting the trip-meter not with an extended press of the return button, but pressing the page+return buttons at the same time.

Rear passengers are also cooled with an overhead fan system that takes the front seats’ air and distributes it to rear passengers via overhead vents and fins. Though kids can’t reach them, they are easily accessed by

1

3

5

6

1: Triton interior is modern, comfortable, practical and spacious. Even steering has tilt and reach, not a common adjustment in most utes.

2: 360 degree camera and sensors make parking a breeze, and though active in reverse, the cameras deactivate when put in Drive, necessitating using the button on the steering wheel to activate the bird’s

eye, front or kerbside view.

3 - 6: Lots of interior touches make life easy in Triton, including keyless entry/ start, with the button on the highly visible entry side, selectable 4WD high/low, a rear smartphone pocket with dual USB ports in the rear, and an overhead circulation system that feeds air from the front into the rear via way of vents and flaps

LCV | 15

front seat occupants.

So what don’t we like about the new Triton? Not a lot, but a few minor niggles: the ride can be firm and jiggly at times; and Bluetooth phone calls emanate only from the passenger-side speakers. Given this is designed as a work ute, it’s fair to expect a fair bit of time while driving would be spent on the phone. It’s like listening to someone with one ear: it’s still possible to hear them, but two ears is better than one.

The 360 degree camera is a great addition to the package, and certainly helps align the ute in parking spaces, up close to

objects or just providing some reassurance in tight areas: but when ‘back-and-forthing’, it deactivates when it’s taken out of reverse. A steering wheel button keeps it alive, and also cycles through the most applicable camera angle. Front and rear sensors help, as does the rear cross-traffic alert, but a display is always better to keep lit - especially given it would simply be an electronic setting.

These are very minor issues, but the Triton is so impressive that nit-picking is needed to offer a balanced opinion. The 2019 Triton ute is a holistically impressive package, and with

a 14-model range starting at $32k for the 2WD cab chassis auto, up to $50k for the top-line VRX, the sharp price is the cherry on top of the Triton sundae.

SPEC CHECK Mitsubishi Triton VRX Engine:

2.4-litre turbo diesel four

Power:

135kW/437Nm

Gearbox:

Six-speed auto

Economy:

8.6l/100km (claim)

Weight:

1995kg

Turning circle:

11.8m

0-60/100km/h:

4.4sec/10.5sec (tested)

0-400m:

17.2@126km/h

Price:

$49,990

Rating (/5) Verdict:

In the top-three for good reason

ARB is Australasia’s largest 4x4 Equipment Manufacturer. People rely on us because we’ve earned our stripes – ARB has been in business for more than 30 years, and our products have been tested and proven in the toughest conditions on earth.

To cater for the diverse needs of 4WDers everywhere we offer a massive range of equipment that will improve your vehicles capabilities in any environment. Business or Pleasure, on road or off, if you want more from your 4WD we will make it happen – ARB is your one stop 4x4 Accessory Shop.

Our Range Includes; • Recovery Equipment • Old Man Emu Suspension • Drawer Systems • Roofracks • Snorkels • Plus much more

The full range of ARB 4x4 Accessories is available throughout New Zealand from the ARB Network.

For Advice, Supply, Fitment and Backup contact your nearest Agent Ph 0800 ARB 4WD ( 272 493) or go to www.arb4x4.co.nz

16 | LCV

LCV28240

• Bullbars • Winches • Side Protection Bars and Steps • Rear Protection Bars • Underbody Protection • Air Locker Locking differentials & Air Compressors

FIT AT 40 The new Triton launched in the 40th year for the Mitsubishi ute.

We look back at its history.

SPACE INVADERS IN ARCADES, STAR Wars in NZ cinemas and the first cellular phone network were all hallmarks of 1978.

It also marked the introduction of the Mitsubishi one-tonne ute.

With more than 4.7 million sold, the Mitsubishi ute was first called a Forte, and was designed to carry one-tonne of cargo, handle all roads, any location, with reliability, durability and payload performance, plus drivability, comfort and ride on a par with a passenger sedan.

Adding a 4x4 version in 1980, the ute became the foundation for modern 4WD vehicles including the Pajero and Delica.

Renamed the Triton, the Mitsubishi ute has just launched its sixth generation, so after 40 years, we take a look back at the model that started and shaped into what we see today.

1ST GENERATION, SEPT 1978 Mitsubishi Forte (Italian for strong), a one-tonne ute based on styling cues from the Galant sedan, was introduced in Japan and exported with names including the Truck and L200. Only sold in single cab, power is from a 2.0-litre petrol, with a 2.6-litre option for North America and 1.6-litre engine for Japan and other regions. A 2.3-litre diesel engine was available for general exports. The chassis was sophisticated for a commercial vehicle, with front disc brakes, double wishbone/coil spring front

suspension, and leaf springs and rigid axle in the rear.

Eleven months after launch, exports to the USA began to satisfy the huge demand for small utes for commuting and recreation.

Two years and one month after launch, a part-time 4WD system was introduced.

Six generations, 40 years and almost fivemillion sold, there’s a bit of history behind the Mitsubishi Triton of today.

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2ND GENERATION, MARCH 1986 A full redesign, with three body types –Single Cab, Club Cab, Double Cab – and short and long body styles with the single cab, both new 2WD and 4WD drivetrain options were available, with 2.0-litre and 2.6-litre petrol engines and a larger 2.5-litre diesel engine. In May 1991, it was introduced to the Japanese market as the Strada, in double-cab only.

The naming changed too, with doublecab Strada being introduced in Japan in 1991. The model was also called Mighty Max in North America, Triton in Australia, and L200 in other areas.

In North America, it was also sold by Dodge as the RAM 50. Around 1.15 million 2nd gens were produced.

3RD GENERATION, NOV 1995 Introduced as the Strada/L200 in Thailand, production is concentrated in the MSC Thai Laem Chabang Plant, from where it is exported worldwide. The interior and exterior designs were fully revised to give a distinctive and cutting-edge look, and positioned as a roomy five-seater that was comfortable and capable enough for both work and play. Three body variations include Single Cab, Club Cab, and Double Cab for exports. Powered by 2.5-litre or a larger 2.8-litre diesel engine the 4WD mechanism is equipped with innovative ‘Easy Select 4WD’ system. And on some models was introduced ABS, and an LSD. A total of 1.05 million were produced.

5TH GENERATION, NOV 2014 The Triton/L200 was similarly introduced in Thailand and flowing on to other markets globally. Three bodies offered included Single Cab, double-door Club Cab, and Double Cab. Powertrains are a newlydeveloped 2.4-litre MIVEC diesel turbo, 2.5-litre diesel turbo, and 2.4-litre petrol.

Drivetrain options are 2WD and 4WD, with the availability of ‘Super Select 4WD-II’ system, which adopted an electronic actuator. A six-speed manual and five-speed automatic

18 | LCV

4TH GENERATION, AUGUST 2005 The new Triton/L200 ute was introduced in Thailand, and spreading to 150 other countries worldwide. Three body configurations included a Single Cab, Club Cab, Double Cab. The packaging gives the roomiest interior in its class, while the suspension and interior equipment enable ride comfort to rival passenger cars.

Engines include newly-developed 2.5-litre and 3.2-litre commonrail diesel. Drivetrain options are 2WD and a 4WD equipped with ‘Easy Select 4WD’ or ‘Super Select 4WD’ systems. Participation in the Dakar Rally and other races built its superior offroad 4WD performance and helped tell the world about the Triton/L200’s toughness. A total of 1.42 million units were produced.

transmission with sports mode are also offered for the first time. A 2WD option is still offered, including the standard version and a ‘High Rider’ model which has the same ground clearance as the 4WD.

6TH GENERATION, NOV 2018 (See main pic, previous page).

Continuing the tradition of a Thailand introduction and rolling out to 150 countries around the world, and officially on sale in NZ in Jan 2019. A new automatic sixspeed gearbox works with two new Off-Road modes, ‘Super-Select’ or ‘Easy-Select’, all accompanied by a suite of safety gear including forward collision mitigation, rear cross traffic alert, blind sport warning and lane change assist.

With run-out sales of the old model and a special price for the new one, Triton jumps to number three on the NZ 2018 ute sales chart.

Financial

FUSO.CO.NZ 0800 FUSO NZ

Story: Dean Evans

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVENS

Shopping for seven? Then our SUV guide for all the seven-seaters on sale is here to help.

IF A SEVEN-SEAT SUV IS ON YOUR SHOPPING LIST, THE good news is that there is plenty to choose from. And we mean PLENTY! With more than 30 derivatives or models of seven-seats

on sale in New Zealand, it’s all too easy to get lost in the sea of seats. So we’ve put together this guide to all the SUVs that’ll seat seven, so you can make the choice a little easier.

Audi Q7 One of the original premium seven-seat SUVs, Audi’s Q7 launched in 2006 and has been popular ever since to those with a solid budget. Currently running a normally aspirated 3.0-litre Engine V6, it shares components with both 3.0 petrol V6, 4.0 twin-turbo V8 the less expensive VW Touareg and Power/Torque more expensive Porsche Cayenne.

160-200kW/500-600Nm And if extra sportiness is a must, Economy there’s the 320kW 4.0-litre V8 SQ7 5.8-5.9l/100km Price for $181,900. $117,400-$133,400/$181,900

Bentley Bentayga When only the best will do, Bentley’s Bentayga tops the list of our luxury seven-seat SUVs on sale in NZ. There’s plenty of choice for the Engine discerning buyer, with seat options 4.0 petrol V8, 6.0 petrol W12 from four-, five- or seven-seats, and a Power/Torque choice of V8 or V12 engine.

404kW/770kW; 320kW/447Nm

Economy Price

8-13.1l/100km $285,000-$398,000

20 | LCV

BMW X7 Arriving in 2019 and the newest entry to the NZ market, the BMW X7 is basically a luxury 7 Series in an SUV, and brings three rows to the luxury brand, with all the usual trappings such as second-row tablet/ infotainment, electric blinds, LED sunroof and a centre fold-down section that allows easy access to the third row from Engine 3.0 petrol/diesel within, or a one-touch button when standing single/twin/quad turbo six outside. The third row is also well featured Power/Torque with its own climate control, big windows 195-294kW/447/760Nm and a split-folding tailgate. Engines range Economy from a twin-turbo six, single turbo petrol six, 7.0-11.4l/100km to a quad-turbo six, all passing through an Price eight-speed auto and AWD. $146,200-$199,900

Ford Everest Ford’s Territory was such a success, its shoes have been rather large to fill, and the Everest does its best. Recently receiving a price Engine reduction and a new engine, while 2.0 bi-turbo diesel four it may share some underpinnings Power/Torque with the Ranger ute, it’s a lot more 157kW/500Nm refined for the family, and now Economy offers a new twin-turbo 2.0-litre 7.1l/100km from the Raptor, and the 10-speed Price auto, at a sharper price. $79,990

Haval H9

A lot of SUV for not a lot of money, we were pleasantly impressed by the H9, and with a strong 2.0-litre petrol turbo, there’s plenty of equipment on board to justify the Chinese badge.

Engine 2.0 turbo petrol four With an eight-speed auto and Power/Torque 9.7-second dash to 100km/h, it’s 180kW/350Nm quick and reasonably economical.

Economy And priced right, under $50k!

Price

10.9l/100km $47,990

Holden Acadia

We do like the Acadia, quite a lot.

Starting under $50k, the seven-seat rebadged GMC looks great in person, it’s well equipped, drives extremely well and offers a Engine lot of modern technology such as a 3.6 petrol V6 nine-speed auto. And it’s fast, with a Power/Torque petrol V6 that dishes up 0-100km/h 231kW/367Nm in 7.0 seconds. And best of all, there’s Economy 9.3l/100km a special feature in the second row, Price where a booster seat can remain $49,990-$71,990 fixed, and the seat flips forward to offer access to the third row.

LCV | 21

Holden Trailblazer More than just the SUV version of the Colorado ute, the Trailblazer adds so much more, including ride quality, refinement and comfort for both back rows. It does share the same 2.8-litre Engine Duramax turbo-diesel four-cylinder that’s 2.8 turbo diesel four fastest in class, and Trailblazer continues Power/Torque that speed with 0-100km/h under 10 147kW/500Nm seconds. Flip-up second row seats on Economy both sides make third row access easy, 8.6l/100km plus plenty of third row storage bins, Price $64,990 separate fan controls and good rear vision through the large side rear glass.

Honda CR-V With an optional seven seat Sport 7 model, while a front-drive 1.5-litre VTEC turbo four-cylinder might sound like a small engine in a big seven-seat SUV, it manages quite alright, with 140kW and 240Nm, and all the usual Engine mod-cons such as Apple/Android. Other 1.5 turbo petrol four extras in the 2WD seven-seat include Hill Power/Torque Start Assist, Emergency Brake Assist, 140kW/240Nm Emergency Stop Signal/Hazard Light Economy Activation, LaneWatch Camera, Driver 7.3-7.4l/100km Attention Monitor, Tyre Deflation Warning Price System and Straight Driving Assist. The $44,990 (five-seat) AWD model offers even more.

Hyundai Santa Fe Think seven-seaters, and the Hyundai Sante Fe is near the top of the list, if not number one. Though offered with a 2.4-litre petrol four, the smarter choice is the 2.2 diesel with Engine 2.2, 2.4 turbo petrol/diesel four eight-speed auto, with good power, Power/Torque torque and economy - but it’s the 138-147kW/231-440Nm practicality and size of the second Economy and third rows that count. Pricing 6.0l/100km starts at $60k, up to a considerablePrice for-Korean $82,990 for a model $59,990-82,990 loaded with tech, including door locks that protect exiting rear passengers.

Isuzu MU-X The SUV twin to the D-Max, the MU-X offers a lot, including a relatively big 3.0-litre four-cylinder with lots of effortless, unstressed torque. A drop-down 10.2 inch screen keeps Engine rear passengers entertained without 3.0 turbo diesel four burying their nose down into a tablet.

Power/Torque The rear seats also get a fan control, 130kW/430Nm vents and lights, too. While the Economy 7.9l/100km engine and drivetrain is more on the Price commercial side, with more of a diesel $65,990 rattle than most, the MU-X is still a solid seven seater.

22 | LCV

Kia Sorento

Another logical choice when seven-seat SUVs come to mind and twin to the Santa Fe, the Sorento is currently one generation older, due to alternating model launches, but it’s no Engine less capable, with the same 2.2-litre 2.2 turbo diesel four turbo diesel four-cylinder that’s way Power/Torque more economical than a vehicle of this 147kW/441Nm size should be.

Economy Price

7.2l/100km $55,990-$73,990

Land Rover Discovery Sport Another seven-seater in the upper end of the pricing scale, the Disco Sport is the WAG’s choice of transport to get the Engine kids to private school. With a choice 3.0 supercharged petrol/turbo diesel V6 of supercharged petrol or diesel V6 Power/Torque engines, there’s also the option of 190kW/600Nm seven seats.

Economy Price

10.9/7,5l/100km $115,900-$139,900

LDV D90 New to the market in 2018, the D90 is LDV’s entry as the most cost-easy way into a new seven seater, and priced under $40k, that’s a solid starting point. Despite the low price, inside Engine 2.0 turbo petrol four there are lots of mod-cons such as Power/Torque Bluetooth and CarPlay/Auto. It’s 165kW/360Nm capably quick enough and reasonably Economy economical given its near five-metre 10.9l/100kmm length, about the size of a CX-9. Plus Price it has a five-star safety rating. $39,990

Lexus LX570 The big Lexus runs a 5.7-litre petrol V8 producing 270kW and 530Nm, making it one of the kings of the SUV crowd. One-upping many in the class, the Lexus is actually an eightEngine seater, with rear seats that fold up/ 5.7 petrol V8 down from the each side. With rear Power/Torque entertainment screens and heated 270kW/530Nm and cooled second row, the big Lexus Economy 14.4l/100km is thirsty, as expected, but when Price venturing into this luxury territory, $181,400 sometimes those crass factors don’t matter.

LCV | 23

Mahindra XUV500

The least expensive seven-seat SUV in NZ is a way better way of saying ‘the cheapest’, but whichever way it’s coated, it still buys seven seats, and a 2.2-litre petrol turbo engine mated to a six-speed auto with either FWD or AWD options. Updated for 2019, inside are lots of features such as a Engine seven-inch touchscreen, cool box/centre 2.2 turbo petrol four console, reversing camera featuring a Power/Torque distance readout in cm. Topped off with 103kW/320Nm a 2.5 tonne towing capacity, the XUV500 Economy proves even the cheapest seven-seat 8.4l/100km SUV isn’t short of features and thrills.

Price $29,990-$39,9900

Mazda CX-8 Awarded our SUV of 2018, the Mazda CX-8 offers a great engine (2.2-litre turbo diesel) with just about every tech available, and real comfort for Engine full-sized adults in the third row. It 2.2 turbo diesel four sounds great, with a warble from its Power/Torque engine and is economical as well, its 140kW/450Nm ride and handling balance is superb Economy and to top it all off, it’s priced right.

5.7-6.0l/100km Put the CX-8 on the short list without Price delay, it’s a great seven-seat SUV. $53,495-$62,495

Mazda CX-9 It paved the way for CX-8 and remains the biggest SUV in its range, and though its badge may suggest it’s a size up, while it is larger than the CX-8, the real points of difference for the CX-9 are two: it runs a Engine 2.5 turbo petrol four 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine that’s half-aPower/Torque second faster than the CX-8, plus it has 170kW/420Nm a special second-row seat function that Economy allows it to tilt and push forward without 8.4-8.8l/100km having to remove a booster seat, for Price access to the third row. And all for a price $54,995-$64,995 that’s not much more than it’s (slightly) smaller diesel stablemate.

Mercedes-Benz GLS A relative newcomer, the sevenseat Mercedes offers a lot more than just seven seats, with the premium badge association.

The three-model range starts at Engine $123,000 plus on-roads for the ‘entry’ bi-turbo V8 3.0-litre V6, rising to over $200,000 Power/Torque ‘including’ on roads, for the 4.7-litre 190-430kW/620-760Nm petrol V8. Of course there’s the AMG Economy 7.1l/100km version, at $211,217 plus on-roads, Price which offers a twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8, $123,304-$211,217 if you must have the fourth-fastest SUV in the world.

24 | LCV

BT-50 BY MAZDA

MAZDA BT-50 DOUBLE CAB NOW WITH $6,000 OF ACCESSORIES * ON US. When it comes down to business, Mazda BT-50 is ready to be put to work. Built tough to take on any task and equipped with all the creature comforts for work, play and everything in between. Plus, when each mazda commercialcare Fixed Price Service costs only $200,^ Mazda BT-50 is also good for the office overheads. And for a strictly limited time, buy a BT-50 Double Cab and get $6,000 worth of accessories at no extra cost. *This Accessory Upgrade is strictly limited to the first 200 qualifying retail buyers for sales concluded between 1 April 2019 and 30 June 2019, or while stock lasts and limited to one accessory pack per customer. Go to mazda.co.nz/Special-Offers for full terms and conditions. ^mazda commercialcare Fixed Price Servicing of $200 including GST applies for scheduled servicing intervals for the first 3 years or 100,000km (whichever occurs first) following the first date of registration.

Go to mazda.co.nz/services/commercialcare for more information.

MDZ4643 BT-50 PN Deal Press Ad - A4P - FA.indd 1

29/03/19 11:59 AM

Mitsubishi Outlander The second best-selling seven seat SUV in New Zealand for good reason, just behind Toyota’s Highlander. Just a very good allrounder, it’s well equipped, safe, swift Engine and practical, with forward collision 2.0/2.4 petrol four, 2.3 turbo diesel mitigation, radar cruise, rear crossPower/Torque 112/126/112kW, 193/224/366Nm traffic alert amongst many others.

Economy With plenty of drivetrain and engine 6.8-7.2l/100km choices, and (special) priced from Price $33k, there’s an Outlander for almost $32,990-$56,990 every taste.

Mitsubishi Pajero An icon of the 4WD/SUV market, the top of the line Pajero continues a few traditions and continues a worthy reputation of off-road and Engine luxury. With a grunty 3.2-litre V6 3.2 turbo diesel V6 producing solid power and torque Power/Torque figures, it still runs a five-speed 143kW/448Nm automatic with sports mode, and twoEconomy speed transfer. The one-model range 9.1l/100km makes it easy to choose.

Price $59,990

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport VRX

A modern iteration of the Pajero badge, the Pajero Sport is quite a different vehicle with all the latest convenience and Engine safety technologies. It’s also a one2.4 MIVEC turbo diesel four model range offering a 2.4-litre turbo Power/Torque diesel four-cylinder, eight-speed 135kW/437Nm automatic transmission and leather Economy throughout the cabin.

8.0l/100km Price

$56,990

Nissan Pathfinder

Nissan’s ‘family’ seven-seater (as opposed to the larger Patrol), tri-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof certainly look after passengers, but there’s also tri-zone Engine 3.5 petrol V6 entertainment, meaning that the rear Power/Torque monitors in the front headrests can 202kW/340Nm play individually to both the front Economy and to each other, for truly personal 9.9-10.1l/100km movies or video games. Radar cruise Price control and a meaty 3.5-litre petrol $55,490-$69,990 V6 up front ensures plenty of poke across the four-models in the range.

26 | LCV

Nissan Patrol When only the best and biggest Nissan will do, a 5.6-litre V8 is packed under Patrol’s bonnet, but only the top-spec Ti-L gets seven seats.

Tri-zone climate control and secondEngine row eight-inch screens look after 5.6-litre petrol V8 passengers, as do the 13 Bose Power/Torque speakers.

298kW/560Nm Economy Price

14.4/100km $127,500

Nissan X-Trail Optional and available only on the ST and ST-L 2WD models, the seven-seat version of the X-Trail starts at a very reasonable $39,990, with Engine a host of tech and features. The 2.5-litre petrol four 2.5-litre normally aspirated petrol Power/Torque offers reasonable performance, 126kW/226Nm through a CVT gearbox.

Economy Price

8.1l/100km $39,990-$44,490

Peugeot 5008 A little different, the Pug 5008 offers seven seats and a choice of Allure (petrol) or GT (diesel). Peugeot’s I-Cockpit includes a big 12.3-inch head-up digital display up front, and Engine 1.6 turbo petrol, 2.0 turbo diesel out back are reclining second-row Power/Torque seats, tray tables and sun blinds. The 121-133kW/240-400Nm third row of seats is also removeable, Economy offering maximum cargo and people 7.3l/100km space whatever the situation, plus a Price huge 780 litre boot, the biggest in its $51,990-$61,990 class.

Skoda Kodiaq Named our 2017 SUV of the year, the Kodiaq is offered in either petrol or diesel, with engine sizes either 1.4 or 2.0 litres. Kodiaq offers an abundance of smart and practical Engine features inside and out. Third row 1.4/2.0 turbo petrol/turbo diesel four accommodation is good, though Power/Torque entering adults should plan to stretch 110-140kW/251-400Nm before a long trip: it’s agile, good Economy 5.7-7.4l/100km looking and economical.

Price $42,990-$58,290

LCV | 27

SsangYong Rexton The latest G4 model is impressive and a leap forward over the previous model. Understanding that its less common badge needs to offer more, the Rexton G4 accommodates third row occupants with storage, vents, fan Engine controls and a 12v socket, plus a 220v 2.2 turbo diesel four socket in the second row, and an auto Power/Torque opening tailgate. There’s even modest but 133kW/440Nm decent boot space while the third row is Economy in use, as well as an underfloor storage 8.3l/100km pocket. With a strong turbo diesel engine, Price seven-speed auto and 3500kg tow rating, $59,990-$67,990 there is a lot to offer in the Rexton G4.

Tesla Model X It’s full electric, it’s the fastest SUV in the world and it seats seven. With all-wheel-drive and a range of 565km, the Model X offers five, or cost-optional six ($9600) or seven-seat ($4800) configurations, and autonomous driving Engine modes. Access to the rear seats is easy Dual electric motor, AWD via gullwing doors, Falcon Wing doors in Power/Torque Tesla speak, and with a 5.037mm length, N/A longer than many double-cab utes, there’s Economy guaranteed cabin space… everywhere!

0l/100km (it’s electric) Of course it’s electric, so say goodbye to Price petrol stations and fuel bills, with electricity $152,220 (over 3yrs) charging costs around a quarter of fuel.

Toyota Fortuner Like a RAV4 for more, the Fortuner is a modern-day iteration of the 4Runner, and based on the Hilux chassis with more ride-compliant rear suspension. Offered in two models, Engine 2.8 turbo diesel four GXL and Limited, both versions also Power/Torque use the Hilux’s 2.8-litre turbo diesel, 130kW/450Nm plus 4WD with off-roading abilities.

Economy The 50/50 split third row seats fold 8.6l/100km and stow to either side, while the Price second row gets a pair of 12v sockets $54,990-$58,490 and one 220v socket.

Toyota Highlander The best-selling seven-seater in NZ in 2018, and the fourth best-selling SUV, the three models of Highlander - GX, GXL and Limited all run a 3.5-litre V6 through an eightEngine speed auto with solid performance 3.5 petrol V6 and a 2000kg tow rating. At just over Power/Torque two-tonne, it proves big petrol seven218kW/350Nm seat SUVs are still popular and with Economy 9.5l/100km RAV4, that makes two Toyotas in the Price top four SUV sales of 2018. $54,990-$68,990

28 | LCV

Toyota Land Cruiser 200 The pride of the luxury Toyota SUV fleet, the 200 Series offers both seven-seat (on runout) and eight-seat options across its two model range, VX and Limited, Engine with (new model) seats for three in 4.5 twin-turbo diesel V8 the third row. A cool-box features in Power/Torque the flip-up centre console/armrest, 157kW/500Nm though there’s also a 220v socket Economy for coolers. With a 4.5-litre twin9.5l/100km turbo diesel V8, there’s 200kW and Price $115,990-$133,990 650Nm through a six-speed, full-time 4WD and a 3500kg tow rating.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado The Prado version of the Land Cruiser comes with the same rugged 2.8-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder in the Hilux/Highlander, Engine through a six-speed auto, a 3000kg 2.8 turbo diesel four tow rating and full-time 4WD. Seat Power/Torque heaters in the second row plus a 130kW/450Nm 220v and 2x12v sockets handle the Economy power, while power-folding third row 8.0l/100km seats are in the two upper spec of Price three models. $70,990-$91,990

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace

A carbon copy of the Skoda Kodiaq with subtle differences, that’s no bad thing when the Skoda has been awarded so much. Tiguan isn’t traditionally known for its seven seats, and even big brother Engine Touareg only has five, but Allspace 2.0 turbo petrol/turbo diesel fours manages to pack a lot into relatively Power/Torque little, combined with a powerful and 132-176kWkW/320-500Nm fast 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder and allEconomy wheel drive. Zero-to-100 in 6.8 seconds 5.9-8.1l/100km will surely get the attention of all seven Price occupants with a range of models up to $57,990-$76,990 a twin-turbo diesel.

Volvo XC90 Choice is the word in the Volvo sevenseat range. In three models and three trim levels, Momentum, Inscription and R-Design, in D5, T6 and T8 trim levels, a choice of engines include a 2.0-litre turbo Engine diesel and eight-speed auto with 2.0 twin-turbo diesel four AWD, a twin-turbo 2.0-litre petrol/ Power/Torque hybrid electric producing 246kW 173kW-311kW/400-680Nm and using just 2.1l/100km, and up Economy to 311kW with Polestar optimisation.

2.1-8.5l/100km Safety, a Volvo hallmark, includes Price third row curtain airbags. $101,900-$140,900

LCV | 29

Western UNION Storys: Dean Evans

Spending a few days getting reacquainted with Nissan’s latest Navara, in Margaret River, Western Australia.

NISSAN’S NAVARA WAS THE FIFTH best-selling ute in New Zealand in 2018, but the history of the Datsun and Nissan ute dates back more than 80 years.

Back in 1934, Datsun launched the Type 13 Truck which ran until the mid-1950s, replaced by various evolutions (120, 220, 320 etc, all the way up to the 720) until the 1980s. Following a name change to Nissan, the Navara D21 ute first appeared in 1986, and formed the foundations of the Nissan

ute, with the current shape launching in 2015. Global sales amount to more than 15 million units across 180 countries.

In 2018, the Navara ute had another strong year, selling more than 3600 units for a 20 percent increase over the 3100 units sold in 2017.

What’s helped that are a number of refinements and improvements, including firming up its rear suspension to be a better tow vehicle, and a high-tech engine.

Departing Perth’s Crown Towers, the army of Nissans are all ST-X and Black Edition models, an Aussie spec that we won’t get as a whole, but could get in part, or our own version.

30 | LCV

Below: The evolution of the Datsun/ Nissan ute spans 64 years back to 1955, with the Datsun Type 13. The Navara nameplate launched in 1986, and in its 33rd year continues on to the current model, launched in 2015 and updated last year, with improved rear suspension and a 2.3-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder.

Nissan’s updated Navara is put into the environment and conditions it was made for, with sand, rocks, water and even a bit of glamping… maybe not that last one

With tyre pressures lowered, the convoy of Navaras hits the sand dunes along the coast, south of Perth.

Over rocky terrain, descent control and low-range makes light work of the paths.

An overnight stay done Nissan style includes a headquarters and cooked sit-down dinners.

To showcase those updates, Nissan recently invited a group of media across the Asia-Pacific, including LCV magazine, to Perth, Western Australia, to experience the Navara across a range of conditions and surfaces for which it’s designed, from the urban roads around Perth, to a trek that included both sandy and rocky roads, to three hours south to the Margaret River region.

With a dozen Navaras in convoy, we depart the stunning Crown Towers, under superb Perth skies, and head towards the coast, where our first stop has us skimming across the sand and the golden beaches.

The Navara takes it in its stride in 4-high mode, and the odd steep, slow crawl is done with a flick to manual mode in the automatic seven-speed box, where it holds gear and chugs up through the sand.

The Navara’s new 2.3-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder turbo diesel offers a great combination of power, torque and economy, and while its capacity may be a little smaller than its direct rivals, it never feels short of performance, with 140kW and 450Nm. The gearbox ratios also help, with low range just a button press away.

Nissan Australia also used the programme to unveil its Black Edition, and though New Zealand is unlikely to get that exact model, it does offer a few unique

LCV | 31

With a twin-turbo 2.3-litre four-cylinder, high- and lowrange 4WD with hill-start and descent control, the terrain is little more than a mild challenge

The Margaret River region offers stunning scenery and gorgeous weather, enjoyed from the comfort of our Navaras.

extras such as wheelarches, nudge bar, LED light and black detailing on wheels and roll bar that should have the aftermarket accessory companies either manufacturing, retailing or importing.

An overnight stop wasn’t exactly

Small water crossings are more fun than a challenge, with some light overnight rain adding to the fun.

32 | LCV

toughing it or roughing it, thanks to Nissan hospitality, and somewhat appropriate for the upper-spec models on our test with a campfire and even wifi in the Nissan glampgrounds.

Rising for another fantastic day, the

fleet headed southbound for more stunning roads, views and driving, with the Navara never out of its depth, and relishing the rocky stuff with a few kays of 4-low mode, using the effective descent control to walk it down rocky terrain, and the hill-start on

Nissan Navara ST-X Engine:

2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel four

Power:

140kW@3750rpm

Torque:

450Nm@1500-2500rpm

Gearbox:

Seven-speed auto

Economy:

7.2l/100km

Tow limits:

750kg/3500kg (un/braked)

0-60/100km/h:

4.2sec/10.2sec

0-400m:

17.1@126km/h

Price:

$61,990

Rating (/5): Verdict:

Great and improved allrounder

After two days and 500km, our fleet is a little dirtier, but we’re reminded how good the Navara is, as NZ’s fifth best-selling ute.

steep climbs.

Navara updates for 2018/2019 include an Around View Monitor for a full permiter view, which is rather handy when a vehicle is more than five-metres long trying to slot into a tight spot, plus ISOFIX mounting points on the two rear seats, and a digital speedo.

There’s also a faster steering ratio and dual rate rear springs, to provide the best ride when unladen, and improved payload and towing ability when loaded up – and it’s locally tuned to Aussie/Kiwi road conditions.

There’s a lot to like about the Navara,

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and in Australia it ranks fourth, a position higher than in NZ, helping reinforce it as one of the most popular utes on sale.

With 2WD and 4x4 variants, cab chassis, single and double cabs, our two days and hundreds of kays was an ideal reminder that Nissan’s Navara is a great way to get away, and with 25 degree sunny skies, the choice of AC, or the sliding rear window for some fresh air, is a long-running Nissan feature.

We compared Nissan’s Navara to Nissan’s Qashqai in 2018 to evaluate if a

ute or SUV is better for family transport, and we tow tested Navara late last year pulling along a special Nissan WRC road car, so we’re well aware of the performance and virtues of Nissan’s top-selling ute but any chance to drive it off-road, in conditions and an environment like this is always special.

With the sun setting on our west coast Australian adventure, we separate from the fleet of Navaras, airborne and bound for Auckland, with a fantastic driving experience and reassurance of the skills and history of Nissan’s ute.

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LCV | 33

LIGHT TRAFIC AREA

Story & photos: Dean Evans

Trafic interior, even for a base model, has plenty of gear such as Bluetooth, auto lights and wipers, air-con and lots of storage and cubbies

Reverse camera lights up in the interior mirror and though small, is very useful, working with rear parking sensors

A little French flair with a tacho and digital speedo. The horizontal bar at the bottom is the ‘eco driving’ light that changes from green to dark orange depending on how it’s being driven

Renault expands the award-winning Trafic van range with the Trader.

A SMALLER ENGINE, TAILGATE DOOR and cheaper price mark the introduction of Renault’s latest addition to its commercial Trafic van range, the Trader.

Complementing the Sport model, the Trafic Trader has been introduced as a tradesman-specific van, tailored with a few details that are ideal for the plumber, electrician or handyman.

LCV is very much a fan of the Trafic; we awarded it our Van of 2017. Introduced in 2016, the expansion of models now runs to four, which starts with the $41,990 shortwheelbase Trafic Trader, up to the $49,990 long-wheelbase Trafic Sport Twin Turbo.

We tested the entry level Trafic SWB, and though basic in name, it’s far from it in specification. Underbonnet is a 1.6-litre turbo diesel producing 85kW and 300Nm through a six-speed manual. The ratios are quite short, and the shift is equally snickety quick, and it’s clearly designed for around-

34 | LCV

town running, peaking at 57km/h in second, and 90km/h in third gear. In fact the 0-100km/h dash is passed well into fourth gear and takes 14.5 seconds unladen.

The higher gears offer relaxed cruising, sitting just under 2000rpm at 100km/h in sixth, accompanied by an impressively eery quietness, with minimal road and wind noise. While the engine’s numbers may be modest, there’s a wide spread of torque and useable speed: in fact third gear is so flexible, it’s the ideal urban gear, pulling from 20km/h from tight roundabout, up to 70km/h, with power just starting to taper off near the 4200rpm redline.

Renault claims 6.6l/100km and we managed 6.7l/100km with a mix of gentle motorway and urban roads, unladen. With its 80-litre tank, that’s a tank range well over 1000km.

All this runs through a front-wheel drive chassis, which helps maximise cargo space

of 5.2/6.0m3 load space for SWB/LWB respectively, load lengths up to 2.5/2.9m, 1.2 tonne payload and two-tonne towing.

At 1.662m wide, the loading area offers 1.27m between the rear wheelarches, with a 552mm loading height. Dual cargo sliding doors work logically well, and lock into place and release with a good shove, rather than having to manually release a lock or handle.

With 16 anchor points, two interior lights, 12v socket and a steel bulkhead (removable if required), the load area is big, practical and equally accessible from either side or rear.

Though 4.999m long, with a 3.1m wheelbase, its turning circle is a respectable 11.8m and the steering is sharp, direct and well weighted. Ride quality is impressive even when unladen, and four-wheel discs, ABS, EBA and loadadaptive ESC all help the safety game.

Above: Low, long, wide and tall, the loading area offers plenty, even in SWB form.

Above right: Seats are fixed in the entry level Trader, but very comfortable, aided by reach and tilt adjustable steering.

Right: Full-length sun visors cover the length of the side windows.

Far right: Dual angle mirrors improve vision given the lack of side windows.

Renault’s new entry level Trafic Trader offers everything we like about the larger model in a more affordable and practical package.

There’s also Renault’s Grip Extend, a kindof traction control on slippery surfaces.

In fact there’s a lot loaded into the Trafic that makes it most appealing: apart from the helpers like hill-start assist and RAID (Renault Anti-Intruder Device - Renault’s auto-locking system), auto headlights, auto wipers and cruise control/speed limiting all make the office a little nicer and easier.

The comfortable driving position ensures hours in the seat aren’t a problem, and a load of tech and cabin features add to the driving experience: elements as basic as storage cubbies for small and large items, a Bluetooth audio system, 12v and two USB ports, and a reversing camera in the rear-vision mirror with

rear parking sensors all add up to a very driver-friendly cabin. There’s a simple to use air-conditioning system, remote stalk behind the steering wheel for all the audio controls and more, plus a scrolling trip computer showing fuel use and range and average speed. Basics such as electric windows, standard and wide-angle exterior mirrors are simply expected in 2019, but less so the vision to them, with the front quarter windows offering a clean view forward, and the large rear window opening up rear vision – and remembering this is all in the base model. The LWB and Sport versions of the Trafic offer extras such as a touchscreen, fold-down centre seat with work bench and laptop storage.

Of course the new Trafic Trader’s key feature is its tailgate rear door that flips up, offering both a temporary workspace, and more than 2m of clearance underneath, ensuring even tall tradies in workboots won’t be easily, accidently concussed when working under it.

Ownership is also a pleasant experience, with Renault offering a three-year/300k warranty, and 12 month/30,000km service intervals, and ‘transparent servicing costs’ of $460+GST. A van may be considered a box on wheels, but with the added comforts, safety and tech, plus the price and cost of ownership, Trafic Trader simply reminds us why we like it so much.

The key feature of the Trafic Trader, a tailgate door that flips up to offer undercover workspace, and 2m of clearance.

Renault Trafic Trader SWB Engine:

1.6-litre turbo diesel four

Power/torque:

85kW/300Nm

Gearbox:

Six-speed manual, FWD

Economy:

6.6l/100km

0-60/100km/h:

6.5sec/14.5sec

Price:

$41,990

Rating (/5): Verdict:

Practical, well-equipped & priced right

LCV | 35

G4 up its game, with the est Korean to really lat the enis ng sev Yo the ng Ssa iquely based on ino ute, which is un d. un aro Rexton and the Rh y other wa n the more common seat SUV, rather tha

2.0-litre els: the rapid 2WD ble in three spec lev eels wh ch -in The Rhino is availa SPR with 20 Sport, and top-spec petrol, a mid-spec . n of the Rexton G4 basically a ute versio

Korean cars have now purged the negative stigma they carried in the 1990s, says Mike Stock.

PREJUDICE AGAINST KOREAN CARS IS now history – just look at the current market success of vehicles like the Kia Sportage.

Kia was once almost a joke brand, with warmed-over versions of old Mazdas.

But today, it sells cutting edge products like the Sportage and the Stinger luxury sports sedan, along with off-beat standouts like the Soul, the Picanto minicar, and the Niro plug-in hybrid and all-electric SUVs. Korea’s SsangYong is yet to achieve the mainstream success of its homeland rivals, though its Korando compact SUV and now-superseded Actyon ute have built loyal followings.

Its Tivoli crossover SUV, introduced in 2014, was the first to carry SsangYong’s newly-developed signature styling cues, and is a credible performer.

But the real leap forward came with the Rexton G4 SUV in late 2017, with real onroad presence, high-equipment levels, and excellent handling and performance.

Now SsangYong has launched the Actyon replacement which uses the same chassis and running gear as the Rexton.

Initially, it was to be called the Musso, like its ancestor which launched the SsangYong name here in the 1990s. [See the story behind the name change on page 6: Ed].

Now, it’s being marketed as the Rhino, and that seems a very sensible move.

36 || LCV 36 LCV

The shift to Rhino gives the ute an immediately-recognisable name which conjures images of strength, ruggedness and power, evoking the immensely-strong African animal after which it’s named.

I’ve been itching to drive the Rhino ever since I tested and was impressed by the Rexton. Would it live up to the promise suggested by its SUV sibling?

After driving a Rhino for several hundred kilometres on the open road, in stop/start motorway traffic and on suburban roads, the answer is yes, with only a handful of niggles.

I drove the two-wheel drive entry-level model, with steel wheels, just the necessary connectivity items, a six-speed manual gearbox, and a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor that develops 166kW and a useful 350Nm. Getting a base model to road test can be difficult – distributors usually make only midto top-grade variants available to show the vehicle in the best light.

But SsangYong general manager Andrew Bayliss has worked on both sides of the fence, as a marketing man for manufacturers and as an independent motoring writer – for this very magazine, in fact.

What Bayliss calls the ‘Billy basic’ Rhino model has a few frills – I could have done with a reversing camera, for instance – but there’s a high-quality Bluetooth sound

system, comfortable cloth-upholstered seats, high build-quality, and genuine refinement.

It’s impressively-quiet even on harsh chip-seal, and the ride, though firm, is well damped and smoother than some rivals’.

Initially, the shift from first to second gear took some mastering to avoid jolting, but the other ratios slotted smoothly.

There’s some turbo lag, and you need to choose the right gear for the corner to avoid bogging down on the exit while the turbo spools up.

But once the turbocharger winds up, performance is more than lively – you need to keep a weather eye on the speedo to avoid attention from the cops – and the motor is impressively smooth and quiet.

The Rhino handles extremely-well; the steering is accurate, and gives plenty of feedback.

After more than a week with the Rhino manual I could find very little to dislike. I had learned to use the gearbox to make the most of the engine and overall I had a good feeling about the vehicle. Even in its most basic form, the Rhino is an impressive, easy-to-like ute with no major vices.

The Rhino looks good enough to carve out a strong place in the market and move the SsangYong brand much closer to the mainstream.

- Mike Stock

GOOD MADE BETTER Thirty years strong, Suzuki tweaks the Vitara for 2019.

Story: Dean Evans

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN 2018, Suzuki has tweaked its popular Vitara with a few upgrades for 2019. With over 3.8 million sold worldwide in 191 countries, the first model was a trend-setter, the new models maintained the popularity, while the new Vitara was unveiled alongside the launch of the latest Jimny in March. The new Vitara keeps all the solid underpinnings that’s made it such a hit with the under-30 crowd (and let’s face it, over 30s as well), such as the choice of 2WD, AWD, normally aspirated 86kW 1.6-litre or the 103kW 1.4 AWD Turbo auto.

If those power figures sound modest, they are, but it’s far from slow, given its featherweight under 1200kg, and 0-100km/h in the eights. And it’s smoothly silent as a sleeping mouse at idle, even without a start-stop mode.

Updates for 2019 are mild but noticeable, with more safety and a few design changes. The 2019 model is identified by its new vertical chrome accents on a five-slotted grille, changes to the lower section of the front bumper plus DRLs, revised rear skid plate and LED taillights. Two new colours are bright Solar Yellow Pearl Metallic and Ice Greyish Blue Metallic, both with a Cosmic Black roof.

New gauges feature a 4.2 colour LCD screen showing the telematics data plus status of the AllGrip mode; there’s a new clock, plus soft-touch padding and silver accents on the dash, doors and centre console. Not a huge redesign in the overall scheme, but the Vitara’s such a good package, it didn’t need them.

In the Turbo versions, new suede seats pair with a new front centre armrest/box,

along with forward crash mitigation and rear cross-traffic alert systems. There’s also lane departure, weaving alert and adaptive cruise control, plus autonomous emergency braking. Bluetooth and CarPlay/Auto are now standard on all versions.

One area untouched is pricing, with the 2WD JLX model starting at $27,990, with a $2k automatic option, $33,990 for the AWD version, and the same $33,990 for the 2WD 1.4 Turbo, our preference in the range. A two-tone roof adds $800, while the AWD adds $4000 taking it up to $37,990.

In the compact SUV world, the Suzuki Vitara puts forward a very strong case, and with a few updates for its 31st year, the best years look to be continuing.

After the 30 year celebration, Suzuki has updated Vitara for 2019 with just a few improvements to safety and style.

Chrome vertical grille slats and DRLs are signs of the 2019 upgrade, along with LED taillights. A new colour screen features in the dash.

SPEC CHECK Suzuki Vitara/Turbo Engine:

1.6 N/A, 1.4-litre turbo four

Power:

86-103kW

Torque

156-220Nm

Gearbox:

Six-speed manual, six-stage auto

Economy:

5.8-6.5l/100km

Weight:

1160kg (Turbo)

0-60/100km/h:

3.6sec/8.4sec (Turbo)

Price:

$27,990-$37,990

Rating (/5) Verdict:

Fast, light, equipped & excellent

LCV | 37

Story & photos: Dean

Evans

We put Mercedes-Benz’s new X350d V6 to the tow test, against its smaller-engined sibling, the twin-turbo four-cylinder X250d.

THIS WILL BE NO SHOCK: MERCEDESBenz new V6-powered X-Class does a better job at towing than the four-cylinder model. Now that we’ve dealt with the plainly obvious, we needed to look at the towing abilities of the new V6, particularly given the modest sales of the four-cylinder. As good as the x250d X-Class is, impressive enough to be awarded our Ute of 2018, customers are taking time to warm to the four-cylinder, with many waiting for the more powerful V6: an engine potentially more matched to the premium image of the badge.

So with a fresh, black V6 X-Class armed, Mercedes dealer Trucks & Trailers came aboard supplying a four-cylinder version for a double tow test. With the same chassis, attention turns to engines: power and torque figures are fine to compare on paper, 140kW vs 190kW and 450Nm vs 550Nm, but it’s how it runs on the road

38 | LCV

that counts.

So with both models offering a 3500kg tow capacity, we loaded them up with some rather special cargo. For the 2.3-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder, Auckland’s Kev & Ian’s Marine supplied us with a Stabicraft 2100 Supercab, a 6.4 metre with 200hp outboard. Equipped with plenty of gear, such as a live bait tank, dive ladder, sliding windows, anchor winch, Fishfinder/GPS/ Tripleshot transducer, plus elite bolster King/Queen seats with Softrider pedal base, it’s an impressive machine. With trailer, it weighs around 2200kg – around 63 percent of the Merc’s towing capacity.

For the 3.0-litre single turbo X Class V6, the larger engine was put up against a larger challenge: a Tristram Marine 701 Offshore 7.4 metre, with Mercury outboard, sliding side windows stainless fore-aft rails, vertical port and starboard grab handles,

Fusion Bluetooth audio and VHF… and weighing around 2400kg with trailer – representing almost 70 percent of its towing capacity.

With full tanks and trip meters reset, we departed the Papakura BP/Autobarn on SH1 just south of Auckland, headed for a 100km round trip encompassing a mix of motorway and urban driving.

First thing that’s noticeable is that the rear ends sink a little and the steering lightens a touch: they’re both still full of feel, but it also settles the rear suspensions down, which can be a little stiff at times, particularly in the V6 when used as aroundtown transport without any cargo.

With both cars travelling in convoy, it’s the perfect chance to test performance, acceleration, hills and fuel economy over the same road, at the same time in the same conditions. Under a clear blue sky,

Underbonnets, the twin-turbo four-cylinder (above left) and single-turbo V6 are largely hidden by plastic covers, though the heaver six-cylinder (above right) does affect steering feel. V6 makes more power than four, naturally, but also uses more fuel.

we hit the exit ramp and power up to speed. The four-cylinder is clearly working a little harder than normal, but still grunts up to 90km/h with ease. It’s clearly breathing harder to get to 90km/h, but manages it all with minimal sweat on the brow, shifting through the optional seven-speed automatic.

The V6 has the seven-speed as standard,

but treats acceleration like a ninja warrior jumping over a shoebox. The peak torque band between 1500-2500rpm ensures it’s never out of depth, and simply treats the trailer with contempt. So we decided to time the 0-60km/h sprint while loaded up: while the four-cylinder took 8.2 seconds, the V6 charged to 60 in just 6.4 seconds – so just on acceleration alone, the V6 is

1.8 seconds swifter to the typical suburban speed limit. The four-cylinder is hardly slow: even while towing, the twin-turbo 2.3-litre X-Class is faster than a Great Wall Steed ‘unladen’ (6.5 secs), and not far off an unladen LDV T60 (5.1 seconds).

We also put the V6 to its own unladen acceleration test to see how it compares to the new Volkswagen Amarok V6 580Nm,

LCV | 39

and the results were remarkable, separated by just a few tenths up to 100km/h, and identical over the quarter-mile (see table).

Back to our twin Mercedes challenge, we exit the motorway at Drury and head towards Clarks Beach. It’s a remarkably unremarkable drive, with both Mercs following nose to tail, never fussed about hills, traffic or overtaking. There’s plenty in reserve in the fourcylinder, with the throttle pedal rarely touching the carpet - but in

40 | LCV

comparison, obviously, it’s also lacking the V6’s torque in the first half of the throttle travel until turbo boost comes into play.

The V6 lopes along so effortlessly, it’s all too easy for the driver to forget there’s something being towed – that feeling is less common in the four.

We arrive at Clarks Beach, stop for photos and a short break, swap cars and head back, with the V6 in the lead. Back to back, the four-cylinder feels remarkably lighter, both overall and in steering feel. The

After 100km of motorway and urban driving, we saw a measurable split between the fuel use of the fourand six-cylinder engines. Bigger isn’t always better.

smaller, lighter engine over the front gives it a more nimble feeling, and while the turbo V6’s nose does put a bit more weight over the steering and make the wheel a little heavier, it’s more a subtle difference than any significant detriment.

Easy touring through 50, 60 and 80 zones keep both Mercs on par, but as we hit the motorway the big V6 is off, pulling away from the four-cylinder with ease. Of course all this performance comes at a price, both with the initial cost and at the petrol pump.

Taking the top-spec x250d Power at $69,000, that’s solid sticker price value.

The step up from the top-spec four-cylinder to the mid-spec V6 is a $12k jump, with another $7k on top for the V6 Power model. So a decent $19k difference on Power spec models.

For the fuel economy battle, there’s a theory that a larger engine doesn’t have to work as hard so potentially uses less fuel, but we disproved that; in our tests, larger engine translated directly to more thirst, and the V6 turned in fuel figures of 17.3l/100km over the same test loop, against 14.4l/100km for the twin-turbo four-cylinder. And from our tow tests over the years, anything less than 15l/100km

for a top line ute towing two-tonne+ is impressive.

What the 2.3-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder loses in outright grunt, it more than makes up for in agility and a lighter feeling, and of course fuel use. Nor is the V6 the best sounding engine on sale, just a bit flat sounding.

But the V6 proves itself as a brute, and the fastest ute on sale at least matching the considered king. It may split hairs and tenths with the Amarok against the clock, but the cabin of the Mercedes is way more modern and comfortable. With a Nappa leather steering wheel, leather gearknob,

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sales@actionmanufacturing.co.nz

Far left: Reversing camera offer active guidelines which helps line up a trailer hitch, plus a 360 degree view which aids reversing and tight manoeuvring.

Left: V6’s fuel use is full of highs and lows, under 5.0l/100km at times, or up to 20l/100km+ when towing up hills.

three-trim panels mixing leather and Alcantara, and dash accents depending on the spec level and options, including a brushed metal finish, there’s a lot to love about the X-Class cabin: it is a Mercedes, after all!

While we weren’t specifically comparing the Merc V6 to the VW, it’s impossible not to, and the Merc more than lives up to the reputation of the Amarok at a comparable price.

We knew the Mercedes-Benz fourcylinder was good, even if customers are still learning that, but the V6 takes it up another level and stamps its name as a brute of a ute, and every bit as capable at towing as its direct rival, which automatically makes it a leader of the ute pack.

Thanks to: www.tristrammarine.co.nz www.kev.co.nz www.trucksandtrailers.co.nz

TOW TALLY 2018 Mercedes-Benz X250d

TOW TALLY 2019 Mercedes-Benz X350d

Engine

2.3-litre twin-turbo four

Engine

3.0-litre single turbo diesel V6

Power/torque

140kW/450Nm

Power/torque

190kW/550Nm

Gearbox

Seven-speed auto

Gearbox

Seven-speed auto

Tow limits

3500kg/750kg (braked/ unbraked)

Tow limits

3500kg/750kg (braked/ unbraked)

0-60km/h

4.6 secs (unladen), 8.2 secs (towing)

0-60km/h

3.0 secs (unladen), 6.5 secs (towing)

0-100km/h 0-400m

11.3 secs, 0-400m: 17.5 @ 121km/h (unladen)

0-100km/h 0-400m

7.4 secs , 0-400m: 15.3@142km/h (unladen)

Economy

7.9l/100km (claim/unladen), 14.4l/100km (towing)

Economy

7.8l/100km (claim/unladen), 17.3l/100km (towing)

Price

$53,300-$69,000

Price

$81,205(Prog), $88,325(Power)

Tow Rating (/5) Verdict

Tow Rating (/5) Verdict

Impressive for a small-capacity four

V6 UTES 0-60km/h WORK YOUR WAY TO THE WEEKEND X Class X350d Amarok 580Nm

3.0sec 3.2sec

0-100km/h

7.4sec 7.3sec

A tow champ, every bit able as Amarok

0-400m

15.3@142km/h 15.3@142km/h

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42 | LCV

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Words: Mike Stock

NEW (SUV) WORLD ORDER RAV4 loses its place at the top, for now, while Mazda’s CX-5 enjoys its time in the SUV sales sun.

Main: Mazda’s CX-5 has inherited the number one spot, while Toyota’s RAV4 is on run-out, before the new model is due in April (above) which will surely re-energise sales.

Top: Mitsubishi’s TVC campaign has led to improved sales for the compact SUV.

C

ROSSOVERS TOTALLY DOMINATED THE NEW Zealand SUV market during the first two months of 2019, filling all 10 spots on the sales ladder.

Mazda’s accomplished, mid-sized CX-5 led the field with 656 sales, built largely on the vehicle’s reputation for reliability, features and simply being a good drive.

The next three vehicles on the list are all heavily-advertised on television. In second place was Kia’s Sportage with 612 sales,

1

Top 10 SUVs to end of Feb

Mazda CX-5 656

2

Kia Sportage 612

3

Mitsubishi ASX 535

4

Mitsubishi Outlander 533

5

Hyundai Kona 347

6

Toyota Highlander 340

7

Nissan Qashqai 321

8

Volkswagen Tiguan 304

9

Toyota RAV4 301 Nissan X-Trail 286

44 | LCV

10

followed by two Mitsubishis, the compact ASX (535 sales) and the medium-sized Outlander (533).

The ASX, in particular, shows the value of canny advertising linked with ultra-competitive pricing.

It’s an old and not especially exciting design but the TV commercial with the young woman and the cute dog passing by a showroom where an electric blue ASX calls out to them is pure magic.

It’s helped revitalise sales – a year ago, ASX registrations were a comparatively-insignificant 271 – and has made it NZ’s best-selling compact SUV. In fifth place was a vehicle that looks more car than SUV, Hyundai’s chic and very attractive Kona which found 347 buyers.

Toyota’s big, American-sourced, Highlander achieved 340 sales, and claimed sixth place ahead of Nissan’s compact Qashqai (321).

Volkswagen’s mid-sized Tiguan edged out the vehicle that largely created the crossover class, the Toyota RAV4, by three registrations with a total of 304. The RAV4 was on run-out with a new model due to hit the market in April this year.

In tenth place was the mid-sized model in Nissan’s crossover range, the X-Trail with 286 sales.

The biggest-selling traditional-style, body-on-chassis SUV was the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado with 173 sales; 64 people bought its big brother, the Land Cruiser 200. The Sport version of the original luxury SUV, the Range Rover, achieved 151 sales.

Mitsubishi’s strong showing in ute sales transferred into utebased SUV category, with the Pajero Sport taking top spot. Its 100 sales were one more than the total achieved by Holden’s Trailblazer.

Over the first two months of 2019, Mitsubishi was NZ’s biggestselling SUV brand, with total sales of 1323. Mazda was in second place with 1093, followed by Toyota with 1090.

Sister brands, Hyundai and Kia, battled neck-and-neck for fourth and fifth, with total sales of 861 and 853 respectively.

Year-on-year, the big improver was Subaru whose SUV portfolio includes the NZ Car of the Year, the Forester. Subaru’s total SUV sales for the first two months of 2018 were 383; this year it sold 599 wagons.

Main: Ranger may have extended its lead in 2019, but it’s the new Triton that’s rising through the ranks.

Insert: SsangYong’s Rhino presents good value, and has managed to equal Mercedes X-Class sales, both new entries to the top 10 for 2019.

TRITON BRONZES UP

Words: Mike Stock

Ranger in the lead, but Mitsubishi Triton sales take flight.

M

ITSUBISHI’S TRITON, A VEHICLE THAT USED to be one of the also-rans of the New Zealand ute market, was the star performer in the first two months of the year.

It retained the third place it achieved during 2018, achieving sales of 947 by the end of February to put it behind the Ford Ranger

1

Top 10 Utes to end of Feb

Ford Ranger 1536

2

Toyota Hilux

3

1118 Mitsubishi Triton 947

4

Nissan Navara

5

671 Holden Colorado 634

6

Mazda BT-50

7

359 Isuzu D-Max 332

8

Volkswagen Amarok

9

113 LDV T60 90

Mercedes-Benz X-Class 74 SsangYong Rhino 74

10

and Toyota Hilux.

The Triton’s performance was boosted by very sharp pricing and equipment deals on the old model, and the arrival of an all-new, more conventionally-styled version.

The two-month sales total was 261 vehicles ahead of its performance during the same period of 2018.

If it maintains that pace, it has the potential to achieve annual sales of more than 5600 – total Triton sales were 4719 last year – and could do even better once results are in from the traditional mid-year ute sales bonanza that occurs around Fieldays.

Also showing a sales increase was the top-of-the-table Ranger, which heads into its sixth year of ute market leadership. Ranger sales of 1536 for the two months were 91 up at the same time in 2018, and 418 ahead of the second-placed Hilux. A year ago, the gap between the two rivals was just 117, Hilux’s 1328 versus Ranger’s 1445.

Hilux sales fell to 1118 this year, doubtless reflecting the nonnegotiable pricing Toyota introduced in April 2018.

Nissan’s Navara leapfrogged into fourth place over these two months with 671 sales, pushing Holden’s Colorado down to fifth place. At this time last year, the Holden was third and the Nissan fourth, ahead of the Triton. Colorado sales fell by 102 for the period year-on-year, while the Nissan’s rose by eight.

Mazda’s BT-50 lifted year-on-year sales by 19 to slot into sixth place, outdistancing the Isuzu D-Max by eight; last year the placings were reversed and the Isuzu led by 45 registrations.

Though its year-on-year sales dropped by 59, the four-wheel drive-only Volkswagen Amarok retained eighth on the ladder with 113 sales.

Ninth, with 90 sales, was a ute from the opposite end of the price scale, the LDV T60.

Two utes were tied for tenth, the Mercedes-Benz X-Class and the all-new SsangYong Rhino which was in its first few weeks on the market. Both recorded 74 sales.

It was a strong showing for the impressive new SsangYong, and Mercedes X-Class sales are expected to rise with the arrival of the upscale V6.

LCV | 45

HIACE STAYS ON HIGH GROUND Words: Mike Stock

New Toyota Hiace already holds the lead for 2019 – with the runout model – and looks likely to boost sales and retain lead with the launch of a new one.

T

OYOTA’S HIACE HAS DOMINATED THE NEW Zealand van market for more than 20 years, and the first two months of 2019 have been no exception.

The Hiace topped the sales ladder with 206 cargo vans sold and a further 34 minibuses.

That’s 60 and 42 fewer, respectively, than at the same time last year but still comfortably clear of the second-placed Ford Transit (149 sales) and third place-getter the Hyundai iLoad (146).

Hiace sales appear to be trending downwards, as the old cab-overengine model enters its final months on the market, but they can be expected to rise again after May when an all-new Hiace arrives.

It remains rear-wheel drive and Toyota says it’s a thoroughly more modern vehicle, with a semi-bonneted layout that repositions the front wheels.

Like all of its key rivals, the front wheels are positioned ahead of the front seats instead of right below them as on the current Hiace.

That should cure two of the Hiace’s shortcomings, the bouncy and uncomfortable ride in the cab – especially over inner-city speed humps New Toyota Hiace is big van news and the first major update for almost 20 years. Toyota NZ launches the model in May.

46 | LCV

– and the climb into the cab to the driver’s seat positioned above and to the right of the engine bay. Toyota says the new layout will also make the cab quieter and increase storage space.

The new Hiace is wider and longer, with a longer wheelbase that’s also said to improve stability.

It gets the drivetrain from the new-generation Hilux ute, so a 2.8-litre turbo diesel; combined with the new platform that’s said to increase payload and towing capacity.

Safety kit is expected to include Autonomous Emergency Braking for vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles, Lane Departure Alert with brake control, Road Sign Assist and Automatic High Beam.

The new look, size and features will put the Hiace on a more even footing with the big European vans which are gaining sales traction in NZ. And, unfortunately for the competition, looks likely to seal its place at the top of the van sales chart, which it’s dominated for as long as we can remember.

We’ll have a drive, review and rundown of the new Hiace in the next issue following its NZ launch in May.

1

6 Brand

Sales

Brand

Sales

Toyota Hiace

206

Volkswagen Crafter

51

Brand

Sales

Brand

Sales

Ford Transit

149

VW Transporter T6

28

Brand

Sales

Brand

Sales

Hyundai iLoad

146

Iveco Daily

27

2

7

3

8

4

9 Brand

Sales

Brand

Sales

LDV V80

82

Renault Master

21

5

10 Brand

Sales

Brand

Sales

LDV G10

66

Volkswagen Caddy

21

VW Caddy and Renault Master may seem poles apart, but they’re equally popular up to the end of February. Iveco’s Daily has shown strong sales, almost doubling its year-on-year sales.

Fourth in January/February 2019 sales was the LDV V80 with 82 cargo vans. LDV also sold 18 minibuses and four of the all-electric EV80.

The same brand’s smaller G10 was fifth with 66 sales, followed by one of the biggest European vans on the market, the Volkswagen Crafter with 51.

Seventh was taken by VW’s mid-sized T6 Transporter, and in eighth was another big Euro, truck-maker Iveco’s Daily with 27 sales, almost double the Italian brand’s showing the same time last year.

Two very differently-sized vans tied for ninth, VW’s Caddy city van and Renault’s heavyweight Master. Both found 21 customers. And with the introduction of the affordable Trafic Trader, we might even see another Renault rise into the top 10 in the coming months.

LCV | 47

FUSO AND ISUZU CONTINUE DOGFIGHT Story: Mike Stock

Above: Fuso Canter has raced to a lead of the 2019 light-truck sales race.

Right: Foton Aumark is making inroads into the market, buoyed by recent improvements to its NZ GVM classification.

J

APANESE BRANDS MADE THE RUNNING IN THE NEW Zealand light truck market throughout January and February.

Perennial rivals, the Fuso Canter and Isuzu N-series, filled the top two spots, picking up in 2019 where they left off in 2018, each brand claiming their own victories for last year and battling on in the first two months. And like last year, on official data, the Fuso held the upper hand with 59 sales to the Isuzu’s 52.

Hino’s 300 slotted into third place with 25 sales; the Toyotaowned brand also sold one light-duty version of its bigger 500

48 | LCV

model, following its new model launch in February.

Only two other brands compete in the light truck division proper, and both Chinese brand Foton and Korea’s Hyundai sold six respectively of their Aumark and Mighty nameplates.

In the first two months, Foton sold double the number of Aumarks it did in the same period of last year, and Hyundai Mighty sales were two ahead of its 2018 total – small but significant advances for both brands.

Light truck sales were down on last year, with a total of 149 to 181.

1 Brand

Sales

Fuso Canter

59

2

Hino’s 300 maintains third spot after two months with its 300, helped by the sale of a light-duty version of the medium 500 update, which launched early 2019.

Though Canter sales were ballpark with last year’s 57, the N-series’ was 29 fewer and the Hino 300 down by 10 units.

In the overall truck market, which was up on the same period of 2018, Isuzu led with 197 sales, from Fuso on 143 and Hino on 104.

New vehicle distributors’ group, the Motor Industry Association (MIA), lists several other brands in its light-duty truck sales statistics, though, strictly speaking, they’re van-chassis. Many of these vehicles form the basis of motorhomes.

Fiat sold 23 of its big Ducatos, and Ford shifted 14 Transits. Transit sales were five ahead of the 2018 total, an increase reflecting the introduction of automatic gearbox versions.

Mercedes-Benz sold 22 of its Sprinter large van chassis, and Renault retailed two Masters.

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Isuzu N-series

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3 Brand

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Hino 300

35

4 Brand

Sales

Foton Aumark

6

Brand

Sales

Hyundai Mighty

6

5

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LCV | 49

kW

Nm

Stelvio

alfaromeo.co.nz

Website

$82,990-$99,990

A

D/P

4/2000-2200

148/206

470/400

4.8-7.0

Q2 Q3 Q5 Q7 Q8

audi.co.nz

$54,900-$63,400 $62,400-$73,900 $92,900-$109,900 $113,900-$141,100 $149,900

A A A A A

P P P P D

4/1395-4/1984 4/1395-4/1984 4/1750-V6/1500 V6/2967 6/2967

110-140 110-132 140-210 160-200 210

250-320 250-320 400-620 500-600 600

5.5-6.4 5.9-6.7 5.1-7.1 5.8-5.9 6.8

Bentayga

bentleymotors.com

$398,000+

A

P/D

W12/6000

320-447

900

8-13.1

X1 X2 X3 X4

bmw.co.nz

$59,900+ $60,900-$70,900 $59,900-$69,200 $96,700-$130,400

A A A A

4/1995-4/1998

220-450 220-280 220-280 500

4.1-6.6

4/1968-4/2967 4/1995-V6/2993

110-170 100-141 100-141 140-230

X5/M

$111,950-$206,700

A

V8/4395

170-330

500-740

3.4-9.6

X6/M

$144,500-$236,100

A

P P P P P/D/ Hybrid P

V6/2979-V8/4395

190-330

400-740

6-9.7

Trans

Fuel

Cyl/CC

L/100km

Issue

5.6-5.9 5.2-6

C4 Aircross

citroen.co.nz

$31,990-$35,990

A

P

4/1998-4/1998

110

197

8.1

EcoSport Escape Everest Endura

ford.co.nz

$26,990-$29,990 $38,480 $79,990 $53,490-$69,990

A A A A

P P/D D D

3/1000T 4/1498-4/1999 4/2000TTD 4/2000TD

92kw 132-178 157 140

170 240-400 500 400

6.7 5.4-8.6 7.1 6.7

June/July 17 Nov/Dec 18

H2 H6 H9

haval.co.nz

$25,990-$27,990 $30,990-$34,990 $43,990+

A A/M A/M

P P P

4/1500 4/1998 4/1998

110 145 180

210 315 350

8.2 9.8 10.9

Sept/Oct 18

Captiva Equinox Trailblazer Trax Acadia

holden.co.nz

$40,990-$56,990 $43,990-$59,990 $62,990 $32,990-$36,990 $49,990-$71,990

A A A A A

P/D P P/D P P

4/2231-V6/2997 4/1998 4/2776 4/1364-4/1364 6/3600

123-190 100-188 147 103 231

230-400 320-353 500 200 367

8.5-10.7 5.7-8.4 8.6 6.7 9.3

Aug/Sept 17 May/June 18 Dec/Jan 18 Oct/Nov 17 Jan/Feb 19

CR-V HR-V

honda.co.nz

$37,900-$47,900 $29,990-$42,600

A A

P/D P

4/1496 4/1800-4/1800

140 96-105

8240 155-172

7.3-7.4 5.3-6.9

Kona Santa Fe Tucson

hyundai.co.nz

$31,990-$41,990 $60,990-$73,990 $39,990-$63,990

A A A/M

P/D P/D P/D

4/1591-4/1999 4/2199-V6/3342 4/1591-4/1999

110-130 138-199 121-136

180-265 241-440 203-400

6.7-7.2 7.7-9.4 6.4-7.9

MU-X

isuzu.co.nz

$65,990

A

D

4/2999

130

380

8.3

E-Pace F-Pace

jaguar.co.nz

$50,744+ $95,000-$130,000

A/M A

P/D P/D

4/1998-4/1999 4/1999-V6/2995

150-300 132-280

380-500 365-700

4.7-8.0 5.3-8.9

Niro Niro PHEV Sorento Soul Sportage Picanto

kia.co.nz

$34,990-$55,990 $49,990 $55,990-$73,990 $32,490+ $35,990-$54,990 $18,490-$21,490

A A A A A/M

P/D P/Hybrid P P/D P P

4/2231-V6/2997 4/1600 4/1998 4/2776 4/1364-4/1364 4/1248

123-190 104 100-188 147 103 62

230-400 147 320-353 500 200 122

8.5-10.7 1.3 5.7-8.4 8.6 6.7 5.8

Urus

lamborghini.co.nz

$350,000+

A

P

V8/3996

478

850

9.7

Discovery

landrover.co.nz

$115,900-$139,900

A

P/D

V6/1999-V6/2995

132-250

430-600

7.5-10.9

$39,990

A

P

4/1995

165

350

10.2-10.9

D90

50 | LCV

Price Range

LX NX RX

lexus.co.nz

$160,100-$179,990 $82,400-$96,000 $95,990-$126,400

A A A

D P/Hybrid P/Hybrid

V8/4461 4/1998-4/2494 V6/3456

200-270 114-175 193-221

530-650 210-350 335-370

8.5-20.2 5.6-9.5 5.9-6.9

XUV500

mahindra.co.nz

$29,990-$36,990

A

D

4/2179

103-129

330

7.4-8.1

Levante

maserati.com/maserati/nz/en

$136,990+

A

P/D

V6/2979

202-316

500-600

CX-3 CX-5 CX-8 CX-9

mazda.co.nz

$31,395-$40,195 $39,995-$57,495 $53,495-$62,495 $54,995-$64,995

A A A A

P P/D D P

4/1998-4/1998 4/1998-4/2488 4/2200 4/2488

109 114-140 140 170

192 200-420 450 420

6.1-6.7 6.0-7.5 5.7-6.0 8.4-8.8

G-Class GLA G-Class Professional

mercedes-benz.co.nz

$186,500-$253,900 $60,900-$67,900 $129,900+

A A A

D P/D D

V6/2987-V8/5461 4/1595-4/2143 V6/2987

180-420 90-130 135

600-760 250-350 400

9.9-13.8 4.5-5.7

Countryman

mini.co.nz

$45,750-$71,990

A

P/Hybrid

3/1499-4/2000

100-170

220-385

2.3-7.4

ASX Eclipse Cross Outlander Pajero Sport

mmnz.co.nz

$36,690-$45,990 $41,690-$45,590 $39,990-$56,995 $61,990-$66,990

A A A A

P/D P P/D D

4/1998-4/2268 4/1499-4/1499 4/1998-4/2360 4/2442

112 112 112-126 135

200-366 254 193-366 437

6.0-7.6 7.3 6.2-7.2 8

Jan/Feb 19

May/June 18 May/June 18

Feb/Mar 17

Mar/April 19 Sept/Oct 18 Sept/Oct 18 May/June 19

Jan/Feb 19

LCV29371

Model

the auto accessory specialists 2

8

2

5

With central locking Canopy SUV SteelTop®

Canopy SteelTop® Commercial

3

Side Step – SS or Black

8

3

Sports Bar

1

Tonneau Cover

4

Side Step - Alloy

Hard Lid

3

Roof Racks

Weathershield

10

6

Headlight Guard

Slide N Lock Tie Down

Tailgate GapShield

TO SUIT:

5 2

6

4

3

7

1

H2 e it ls a u us r ou t sa 8 u t i vis d an e m Co 1

1

Cargo Bar

1

Bed Liner

9 10

11

12

Alloy Lid - Load Rated

1

5

ESC COMPATIBLE

12

• Hilux • Navara • Triton • Great Wall • D-Max • BT50 • Ranger • Rodeo • Colorado • Amarok • Foton • Mercedes • LDV T60 • and More!!

9

Bonnet Guard

Nudge Bar – SS or Black

7

11 Black & Chrome Trim

Fog Lamp

Towbar & Wiring

INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE LCV29371

®

www.airplex.co.nz

Airplex Industries Ltd

21 S a l e y a r d s R o a d , O t a h u h u , A u c k l a n d Phone: + 6 4 9 276 98 26 Toll Free: N Z 08 00A I R P LE X Fax: + 6 4 9 276 98 36 Email: i n f o @ a i r p l e x . c o . n z

ADD PROTECTION & STYLE WITH THESE AFTERMARKET ACCESSORIES Model

Website

Juke Pathfinder Patrol Qashqai X-Trail

nissan.co.nz

2008 3008 5008

Price Range

Trans

Fuel

Cyl/CC

kW

Nm

L/100km

Issue

$39,990 $55,490-$69,990 $107,500-$127,500 $35,590-$43,995 $39,990-$53,490

A A A/M A A

P P P P/D P

4/1618 V6/3498 V8/5552 4/1598-4/1997 4/2488

140 202 298 96-106 126

240 340 560 200-320 226

7.4 9.9-10.1 14.5 4.9-6.9 8.1-8.3

peugeot-newzealand.co.nz

$32,990-$34,990 $39,990-$54,990 $47,990-$57,990

A A A

P P/D P/D

3/1200-3/1200 4/1598-4/1997 4/1598-4/1997

81 88-133 121-133

205 240-400 240-400

4.8 4.4-7.0 4.8-7.0

Cayenne Cayenne S Macan

porsche.com/australia/_newzealand_/

$147,800-$261,200 $187,800+ $113,600-$184,300

A A A

P/D P/Hybrid P

V6/2900-V8/4000 V6/2894 4/1984-V6/2997

250-404 324 185-250

340-770 550

11.5 9.4 7.4-9.7

Evoque Sport Velar

landrover.co.nz

$81,000-$118,000 $128,000-$233,000 $134,900-$157,850

A/M A

P/D P/D P/D

4/1998-4/1999 4/1999-V8/4999 4/1999-V6/2993

110-213 177-405 180-300

380-430 450-700 430-700

4.2-7.6 6.2-12.8 5.4-6.4

Captur Koleos

renault.co.nz

$35,990 $44,990-$59,990

A A

P P/D

4/1197 4/1995-4/2488

88 126-130

190 226-380

5.4 6.1-8.3

Arona Ateca

seat.co.nz

$29,900+ $38,900-$52,900

A A

P P/D

3/999 4/1395-4/1968

85 110-140

200 250-400

5.3-7.0

Karoq Kodiaq

skoda.co.nz

$38,990-$48-490 $42,990-$58,290

A A

P/D P/D

1498-1968 4/1395-4/1984

110 110-140

250-340 251-400

N/A 5.7-7.4

July/Aug 18 Dec/Jan 18

Korando Rexton G4 Tivoli

ssangyong.co.nz

$32,990-$43,990 $59,990-$67,990 $25,990-$34,990

A A A/M

P/D D P

4/1998 4/2157 4/1597

109-129 133 94

197-360 420 160

7.5-8.0 8.3 6.6-7.2

May/June 18

Forester Outback XV

subaru.co.nz

$39,990-$54,990 $44,990-$59,990 $34,990-$39,990

A A A

P P P

H4/1998-H4/2498 H4/2498-H6/3630 4/1995

126-177 129-191 115

235-350 235-350 196

8.1-8.5 7.3-9.9 7

Nov/Dec 18

Grand Vitara Ignis Jimny S-Cross Vitara

suzuki.co.nz

$31,990-$38,990 $18,990-$22, 500 $19,990-$24,500 $29,990-$33, 990 $29,990-$37,990

A/M A/M A/M A A

P P P P P

4/2393 4/1242 4/1328 4/1373-4/1586 I4/1400

122 66 110 88-103 103

225 120 110 156-220 220 5.9

8.8-9.9 4.7-4.9 7.1-7.4 5.9-6.3

Model X

tesla.com/en_NZ/

$151,000-$210,700

A

Electric

N/A

193-375

249-649

0

C-HR Fortuner Highlander L Cruiser Prado L Cruiser 200 RAV4

toyota.co.nz

$37,990-$39,990 $65,990-$70,790 $64,890-$81,490 $70,890-$91,790 $120,190-$134,190 $37,990-$61,690

A A A A A A

P D P D D P/D

I4/1200 4/2755 V6/3456 4/2800 V8/4500 4/1987-4/2494

85 130 218 130 200-270 107-132

185 420 350-440 450 650 187-340

6.4-6.5 8.6 9.5 8 9.5 6.6-8.5

Tiguan Touareg T-Roc R-Line

volkswagen.co.nz

$41,990-$66,990 $89,990-$135,990

A A A

P/D D P

4/1395-4/1984 V6/2967-V8/4134 4/1984

110-162 150-250 140

250-350 450-800 320

5.7-7.8 7.4-9.1 6.8

XC40 XC60

volvo.co.nz

$75,900-$86,900

A

P/D

4/1969-5/2400

A

P/D/Hybrid

4/1969

162-225 P235/E65235

350-440 P400/ E240-480

5.7-7.7

$99,900-$138,900

XC90

$51,990

July/Aug 18

July/Aug 18 May/June 19

Oct/Nov 17

2.1-8.6

GET RS-TED ŠKODA’s high-performance seven-seat SUV, the Kodiaq RS has landed in NZ, with a pricetag of $71,990+ORC. The first Skoda SUV to get the RS treatment, it runs a 176kW 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine with 500Nm, black accents and 20-inch alloys.

Larger brakes, improved steering and sport-tuned adjustable suspension and drivetrain settings all add up to the hottest Kodiaq to rival VW’s Tiguan Allspace. Already the record-holder for the fastest seven-seat SUV around the Nurburgring (yes, that’s a thing!) at 9min:29.84secs, it’s also the first with a 10.25-inch digital display panel, and the first in Race Metallic Blue.

52 | LCV

F

O

w

S 53 C

INTAKE SNORKELS FENDER FLARES WEATHER SHIELDS BONNET GUARDS LIFT KITS HEAD & TAIL LIGHT COVERS TYRES - MUD & ALL TERRAIN FLOORLINERS & CARGOLINERS HITCH STEP

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ORDER YOURS ONLINE AT

www.staparts.co.nz Segedin Truck & Auto Parts Ltd (STA Parts) 53 Andrew Baxter Drive, Airport Oaks, Auckland Call Us: (09) 256 1120 | Email: parts@staparts.co.nz

kW

Nm

L/100km

Issue

Ranger

Model

ford.co.nz

Website

$37,990-$84,990

Price Range

Auto

Trans

Diesel

Fuel

2.2D, 3.2D 2.0 TTD

Cyl/CC

118-157

385-500

7.4-8.9

May/June 18

Tunland

foton.co.nz

$29,990-$ 36,990

Manual

Diesel

4/2776

130

365

8.7

Apr/May 17

Steed

greatwall.co.nz

$26,990-$31,990

Manual

Petrol/Diesel

4/1998 - 4/2378

100 - 110

205 - 310

8.1

Nov/Dec 18

Colorado

holden.co.nz

$39,990-$66,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2766

147

440 - 500

7.9-8.6

May/June 18

D-MAX

isuzu.co.nz

$39,890-$61,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2999

130

430

7.7-7.8

Aug/Sept 17

T60

ldv.co.nz

$33,338-$40,238

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2766

110

360

8.6-9.6

Feb/Mar 18

SportsCat Chevy Silverado

hsv.com.au

$73,990-$82,990 $134,990

A/M Auto

Diesel Diesel

4/2800 8/6600

147 332

440-500 1234

8.7 N/A

Dec/Jan 19

Genio

mahindra.co.nz

$22, 989-$30,990

Manual

Diesel

4/2179

89

280

8.6-9.6

BT-50

mazda.co.nz

$35,295-$59,795

Auto/Manual

Diesel

5/3198

147

470

8.9-10.0

Nov/Dec 18

X-Class

mercedes-benz.co.nz

$56,500-$69,000

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2998

120-140

450

6.6-7.0

May/June 19

Triton

mitubishi.co.nz

$31,990-$49,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2422

135

437

8.6

May/June 19

Navara

nissan.co.nz

$37,990-$63,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2298

120-140

450

6.1-7.0

July/Aug 18

Laramie Ram 2500

ramtrucks.co.nz $163,000

$149,990-$169,990

Auto Auto

Diesel Diesel

I-6/6690 6/6690

276 276

1084 1084

N/A

Rhino

ssangyong.co.nz

$25,990-$43,490

A/M

D/P

4/2.2/2.0

133-166

350-420

8.6-10.7

May/June 19

Hilux

toyota.co.nz

$36,390-$54,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/2775

123-130

340-450

7.3-9.0

May/June 18

Amarok

vokswagen.co.nz

$52,990-$82,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

4/1968

132-165

420-550

8.0-9.0

Nov/Dec 18

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54 | LCV

Model

Website

Price Range

Fuel

Cyl/CC

kW

Nm

L/100km

Issue

7.1-7.6

May/June 18

fiat.co.nz

$54,990-$67,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

I4/2999

130

400

Transit Cargo Transit Custom

ford.co.nz

$60,540-$73,990 $54,990-$61,990

Auto/Manual Auto

Diesel Diesel

i4/1995-4/2198 i4/1995

100-125 125

355-405 405

iLoad/iMax

hyundai.co.nz

$42,990-$59,990

Auto/Manual

Diesel

i/2497

100-125

343-441

Daily

iveco.co.nz

$65,366-$112,918

Manual

Diesel

4/2300-4/3000

93-125

320-430

G10 V80

ldv.co.nz ldv.co.nz

$25,990-$53,900 $32,190-$53,900

Auto/Manual Auto/Manual

Diesel Petrol/Diesel

i4/1890-i4/2499

100-165

200-330

Sprinter Vito

mercedez-benz.co.nz

$33,338-$40,238 $51,120-$73,850

Auto/Manual Auto/Manual

Diesel Diesel

4/2766 i/1598-i4=2987

110 100-140

360 270-440

Partner

peugeot-newzealand.co.nz

$26,990

Manual

Diesel

i4/1560

66

215

8.6 - 9.6

Hiace

toyota.co.nz

$45,780-$65,880

Auto/Manual

Petrol/Diesel

i4/2694-i4/2987

100-118

300

8.6 - 9.6

Kangoo Master Trafic

renault.co.nz

$31,990-$35,990 $59,990-$74,990 $41,990-$52,990

Auto/Manual Auto/Manual Auto/Manual

Diesel Diesel Diesel

i4/1197-i4/1461 i4/2299 i4/1598

81-84 120-140 85-129

190-240 360-400 300-340

6.6

Caddy Crafter Multivan Transporter California

volkswagen.co.nz

$29,990-$61,490 $57,490 = $92,190 $73,490-$94,990 $39,990-69,490 $137,000

Auto/Manual Auto/Manual Auto/Manual Auto/Manual Auto

Petrol Diesel Diesel Diesel Petrol

i4/1197-i4/1395 i4/1968 i4/1968 i4/1968 4/1968

62-92 90-130 132 75-150 150

160-220 340-410 400 250-450 450

Model

Website

kW

Nm

Manual

Diesel

12/2780-17/3760

110-115

360-500

fuso.co.nz

Auto/Manual Manual

Diesel Diesel

4/2998 6/7545

110-129 184-207

370-430 761-802

300

hino.co.nz

Manual

Diesel

110-121

420-550

Trucks MK Trucks PK

udtrucks.co.nz

Auto/Manual Manual

Diesel Diesel

4/7013 4/7013

180-206 180-206

716-883 716-883

Mighty

hyundai.co.nz

Manual

Diesel

4/3933

102-125

289-608

N Series F Series

isuzu.co.nz

Aumark

foton.co.nz

Canter Fighter

Price Range $29,995 +

FAST 15 UTES (RANKED BY 0-100) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Trans

Ducato

VW Amarok V6 580Nm Mercedes-Benz X350d SsangYong Rhino Petrol Holden Colorado Z71 Nissan Navara ST-X SsangYong Rhino Diesel Mitsubishi Triton LDV T60 HSV SportsCat Mazda BT-50 Isuzu D-Max Mercedes-Benz X250d Ford Ranger Wildtrak Toyota Hilux Foton Tunland

Trans

Fuel

Cyl/CC

Nov/Dec 18

Aug/Sept 17 June/July 17

Apr/May 17

Dec/Jan 18 Aug/Sept 17

L/100km

3.2 3.0 3.9 4.1 4.2 3.8 4.4 4.2 4.2 4.3 4.6 4.6 4.7 4.6 5.7

0-100km/h

7.3 7.4 9.1 10.2 10.2 10.4 10.5 10.7 10.7 10.9 11.2 11.3 11.5 12.1 13.9

Issue

8-13.1

Dec/Jan 18

Feb/Mar 18

110-139 151-257

0-60km/h

May/June 19

May/June 18

0-400m

15.3@142km/h 15.3@142km/h 16.5@131km/h 17.1@127km/h 17.1@126km/h 17.0@125km/h 17.2@126km/h 17.4@125km/h 17.4@125km/h 17.4@122km/h Not tested 17.5@121km/h 17.7@122km/h 18.0@121km/h Not tested

LCV | 55

Brought to you by Beaut Utes, quality accessories for all popular utes.

Owner: Adrian Cornes/T&G Vehicle: 2018 Mitsubishi Triton Opinion: It’s like driving your arm chair, it’s so comfortable. Good power… it’s like a luxury car. It’s my first ute, but I’ve driven a mate’s Ranger, and they’re pretty similar - and this is much cheaper. The hardtop can sometimes be good and bad, and sometimes the Bluetooth doesn’t connect properly, but I really like it.

Owner: Leon Holden Vehicle: 2015 Nissan Navara Opinion: We bought the Navara from my dear uncle Les, who just passed away, and like to think it carries on his legacy. It runs a 2.3-litre turbo and seven-speed. It’s done 50,000km now and it’s our second car, and like Les would have wanted, it’s a work horse that’s come in handy during the projects around our home. Goes well, no real complaints.

WINNER

Owner: Greg Rison Vehicle: 2017 Mitsubishi Triton Opinion: I like the colour, the look and the way it drives, plus it’s not too expensive, either. It has all the stuff we need, though the Bluetooth audio only comes out of the left speakers, which makes it hard to hear sometimes. I like the look of the new model though, so it may be time for an upgrade. Maybe white.

Owner: David Seagal Vehicle: 2018 Isuzu D-Max LS Opinion: I bought my chrome orange D-Max from a dealer with 10,000km on it, but runs like new – just run in! It’s like a Ranger and does everything the Ford does for less money. Plus the colour’s a bit different, too. The engine can be a bit rattly at times, and I have to turn it off at drive-throughs.

But very happy with it! Please do a comparo with the D-Max in the mag.

Owner: Graham Redington Vehicle: 2018 Ford Ranger Raptor Opinion: Change Opinion to: I love the look, and it rides fantastic. I put it in Sport mode and it changes shifting, everything. I fitted a rear deck cover and sail-plane from a mate who didn’t want it on his Wildtrak, fit machined 20mm wheel spacers to fatten the track, and got the Ford Performance guys to disable the annoying stop-start mode. I absolutely love it!

Owner: Jason Lared Vehicle: 2014 Holden Colorado LTZ Opinion: This is an old pic when we went bush, but after five years, I just turned over 100,000km and still love the Colorado.

It has so much torque, and is faster than my mate’s 2018 Ranger.

Am looking at upgrading now and while I love Holden, there are some tempting options out there.

Owner: Rocko Rayham Vehicle: 2010 Mazda BT-50 Opinion: I know it’s getting old, but I still love my Mazda BT-50 Boss. It has a bull bar and factory canopy and it’s my work truck and getaway.

Owner: Ray Boxer Vehicle: 2013 Volkswagen Amarok Opinion: I’m a VW guy through and through and just love the Amarok. My budget only allowed for the four-cylinder, but I don’t do a lot of towing, more off-roading and fun stuff.

56 56 || LCV LCV

Show us your ute, plus 50 words of likes & dislikes about it, and you could win a $100 voucher from Beaut Utes. Post to facebook.com/NZLCVmag.

the auto accessory specialists 2

8

2

5

With central locking Canopy SUV SteelTop®

Canopy SteelTop® Commercial

3

Side Step – SS or Black

8

3

Sports Bar

1

Tonneau Cover

4

Side Step - Alloy

Hard Lid

3

Roof Racks

Weathershield

10

6

Headlight Guard

Slide N Lock Tie Down

Tailgate GapShield

TO SUIT:

5 2

6

4

3

7

1

H2 e it ls a u us r ou t sa 8 u t i vis d an e m Co 1

1

Cargo Bar

1

Bed Liner

9 10

11

12

Alloy Lid - Load Rated

1

5

ESC COMPATIBLE

12

• Hilux • Navara • Triton • Great Wall • D-Max • BT50 • Ranger • Rodeo • Colorado • Amarok • Foton • Mercedes • LDV T60 • and More!!

9

Bonnet Guard

Nudge Bar – SS or Black

7

11 Black & Chrome Trim

Fog Lamp

Towbar & Wiring

INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE LCV29371

®

www.airplex.co.nz

Airplex Industries Ltd

21 S a l e y a r d s R o a d , O t a h u h u , A u c k l a n d Phone: + 6 4 9 276 98 26 Toll Free: N Z 08 00A I R P LE X Fax: + 6 4 9 276 98 36 Email: i n f o @ a i r p l e x . c o . n z

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5

ACTORSY YEAR F,0 00KM

130 NTY WARITRHA 24HR

W E ASSIST ROADSID

T60 Luxury shown with optional accessories.

T60 Double Cab Features include • 2.8 Variable Geometry Turbo Diesel • 6 speed Auto or Manual • Seats 5 • 4WD • 10inch Touch Screen Entertainment System • Side Steps • Reverse Camera • Hill Descent Control • Roof Rails • Lane Departure Warning • Traction Control System • Air Con • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System • 5 year/130,000km (whichever occurs first) Factory Warranty with Roadside Assist • TEST DRIVE TODAY.

L IA C R E M M O C F O E NG A R L L .

U E F L B A A E V IL A A H V A E S W E L EHIC V R E G N E S S A P D N A 5 CTORY YEAR FA ,000KMS

130 NTY WARITRHA 24HR

W E ASSIST ROADSID

3

YEAR FA

100,00CTORY 0KMS WAR RAN TY W RO ITH 24H ADSID R E ASS IST to G10

*Warran ty applies

& V80.

G10 Cargo From

$25,990

V80 Cargo From

$32,190

Call 0800 55 3500 ldv.co.nz

T60 Double Cab

T60 Single Cab

$29,990

$26,990

From

From

WORKING HARDER EVERY DAY