Pickup & 4x4 Pro - September 2019 by Assignment Media Ltd

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ford ranger raptor The hotly anticipated super-truck driven in UK

SEPTEMBER 2019

TRAINING

USED BUYING

FEATURES

Amazing components to suit any budget

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THE MAGAZINE FOR THE PICK-UP AND 4X4 PROFESSIONAL

THIS MONTH SEPTEMBER 2019 News 2 3 3 3

Land Rover Leaked info on the revived icon Nissan Fresh details of the upcoming Navara refresh Volkswagen New buying options for used trucks Mitsubishi First new models land in the UK

Products 22 23 23 24 26

Alpine Hit the right notes in your truck Pedders New kit is suiitable for Navara and X-Class alike Active 4x4 Adventures Take your truck on an adventure General Tire Capable tyre now with more personalisation Davanti New all-terrain tyre is ready to take off

Features 4 10 16 18

Ford Ranger Raptor No more waiting for the Raptor Land Cruiser Amazon Luxury and ability in one place All Terrain Services Perfect training whatever the cause Ford Ranger APB expertly build world-beater

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NEWS

NEW DEFENDER DETAILS LEAKED ONLINE

It’s not far away and now we know more than Land Rover would like us to…

etails Land Rover’s new Defender have emerged early of the vehicle’s official launch, with pictures from an internal product presentation appearing on a forum. The pictures are grainy, but they suggest that after a staggered launch the vehicle will come in three forms – 90, 110 and 130 – just like the old Defender. Despite the name, the 90 will have a wheelbase measuring 101.9-inches. The shortest will also be the tallest of the new Defenders – by half an inch. According to the slides, the 110 and the 130 will have a wheelbase of 119-inches. Side-on drawings of the three vehicles together show the 130 seemingly with a longer wheelbase than the 110 and only a touch more overhang at the rear. Some slides suggest the 130 is 13.5-inches lengthier than the 110 – an overhang of this size would certainly hamper off-road ability. A longer wheelbase seems the likelier reality.

2 SEPTEMBER 2019

When it will arrive is unclear, too. There’s a slide that says we’ll see them for the 2022 model year, whilst another says August 2020. What does appear to be clear is that we’ll see the 110 first. Going on sale in October this year – presumably after a global unveiling at the Frankfurt motor show. Then the 90 will follow next March. It also appears that there will be an incredible array of options and choices within the Defender range. Standard, S, SE, HSE and X trims will be offered with the latter a high-end launch model. There will be a long list of options, as well as Capability, Interior, Exterior and Convenience option packs. Dealers will also offer accessories split under the Explorer, Adventure, Urban and Country titles. Whilst there wlll be plenty of scope for personalisation, there will be one transmission available. The leaked information shows that automatic will be standard on all models. This is sure to disappoint traditionalists, although it isn’t too surprising given the scarcity of a

stick shift in current Land Rovers. But it seems every Defender will have four-wheel drive. Once the range is complete, there will be a spread of three petrol or three diesel units to choose from with mild and plug-in hybrid options on the table. The D200 diesel is expected to be the best-seller – a 2.0-litre unit developing 200bhp and 317lbf.ft. There will also be a 240bhp version of the same engine, named the D240. The diesel range topper is Land Rover’s six-cylinder D300 unit, whose 300bhp and 479lbf.ft offer unDefenderly performance. A 0-62 time of 7.4 seconds is quoted, although we don’t know if this is for 90, 110 or 130. If a Defender of that pace is a shock, brace for the petrol range. It starts with the 300bhp, 295lbf. ft P300, which displaces 2.0 litres – as does the internal combustion part of the P400e plug-in hybrid. The latter, which is already familiar from the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, is pegged with

404bhp and 295lbf.ft, though a torque boost is available to lift that to 476lbf.ft. This means a 0-62 time of 5.9 seconds! This is matched by the 3.0-litre P400. The mild hybrid engine, from the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, has 400bhp paired with 550lbf.ft. You may have guessed that the new Defender won’t be basic like its fore bearer. The entry-level Standard model will feature 18” alloys, LED headlamps, power-folding mirrors, eight-way powered seats and a 10” touchscreen, as well as a wide range of advanced safety features. The wheels grow to 20-inches as you climb the range, headlamps become matrix LED units with auto-dimming, seats gain internal climate control as well as premium leather and 18-way adjustment and the audio options peak with a 740W Meridian surround system. One way in which the Defender will remain faithful to the original is that it will be available with three-abreast front seating. The 90 will be offered in 5 or 6-seat form and the 110 also offering 7 and the 130 will be an 8-seater as standard. There’s no mention of price in the leaks, but there are descriptions of the typical buyers. The 90 targets a ‘young, affluent fun-seeking individual.’ The car itself is the ‘halo, image icon’ of the range, whereas the 110 is the ‘definitive Defender’ for ‘couples, self-employed adventurers,’ and the ‘premium explorer’ 130 is for ‘families, active lifestyle and travel.’ No farmer’s wagon in the range, then. Land Rover dealers we’ve spoken to say they have been told to expect an entry-level price of around £50,000 for the base vehicle, meaning it’s pricier than both its American and Japanese rivals. So, it seems there’s ammunition to rattle old school cages and whet the appetite, too. Still divisive like a Defender, then.

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NEWS

MORE NEW NAVARA INFO

issan have detailed further the specifications of the soon-to-be-updated Navara, with more depth on the economy, infotainment tech and the specifications of different trim levels. The engine available with the updates â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the same 2.3-litre unit in either 163 or 190bhp â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is more economical than before, with a 40.9mpg return attainable on a combined cycle (NEDC). Suspension changes have been made to allow easier to handle steering, plus the five-link rear setup is standard across all models now, having been added for KingCab body styles. A swathe of advanced connectivity also makes the Navara a sturdy workhorse at the same time as being a truly modern vehicle. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NissanConnect with Alliance in-Vehicle Connectivity, the system upgrade also allows users to mirror their smartphone on the upsized 8-inch screen that is more responsive and features a clearer display. The Nissan

Connect Services app is also now fitted, with built in 4G, TomTom maps with real-time, over the air updates and both Google satellite and Street View. The app also offers remote control of the horn and lights, plus a vehicle

VW REVEAL USED VAN FINANCE CALCULATOR VOLKSWAGEN HAVE LAUNCHED an online calculator for used van finance on their range of approved used vehicles â&#x20AC;&#x201C; of which the tally is around 2,000. The Used Van Finance Calculator aims to give buyers of a used truck the same service as

locator to help in Navara-heavy car parks, I guessâ&#x20AC;Ś The system is also compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard wheel size on lower spec models is now 17-inch (rather than 16) with new 17 and

FIRST OF NEW MITSUBISHI L200s ARRIVE IN THE UK

those who are acquiring a new commercial vehicle. With the new tools, buyers will be able to adjust the deposit, mileage and length of finance agreement. Volkswagen Van Centres will also show finance options for used vehicles listed on the website. THE FIRST SHIPMENT of the new Mitsubishi L200s have reached UK shores after arriving at Bristolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Royal Portbury Docks. It is the first shipment of several due in the next few weeks, with Mitsubishi dealers to receive the Series 6 truck throughout July. By their own admission, the new L200 is better than the vehicle itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s replacing. The new truck is pegged as more technologically advanced, safer and more efficient and

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18 designs, whilst high-spec models also get LED headlamps with a gloss black inner shell. The new Navara is on sale now across Europe, with pricing kicking off at ÂŁ21,850 as a CV for the KingCab variant.

environmentally cleaner, too. On the move itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purported to be quieter and more refined whilst posing a better ride and improved handling. Styling wise, it may be the toughest looking Mitsubishi yet. The new Mitsubishi L200 Series 6 will be launched to the media in mid-August, although full details on the truck are yet to be confirmed. It is fair to presume that it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too long before the new L200 goes as sale, as the model has been on sale in Thailand since last year and Mitsubishi will be keen to get the new model to UK truck drivers.

SEPTEMBER 2019

FORD RANGER RAPTOR

For a while there have been calls in the pick-up fraternity for a Euro-sized Raptor truck. Last year Ford announced it. Now weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve driven it. Words: George Dove; Pictures: Ford

ON TEST

or years, Ford’s Raptor nomenclature has only been attached to the too-big-for-Britain F150. But last year it was announced that the company was getting set to give the Raptor treatment to the Ranger, too. It isn’t a CV, but we’re still interested, right? Of course we are. And we’ve had a bash behind the wheel. With uprated Fox Racing shocks and a dedicated Baja mode for dune-bashing and high-speed offroad exploits, the Ranger Raptor is a certified thrill seeker. Safe to say that on an introductory test drive we didn’t even come close to exploiting its full abilities. One of the key factors in the character of the Raptor is its engine. Ford has introduced a 2.0-litre four-pot diesel across the whole of the Ranger line-up; this is smaller than either of the units which have been available on the current model since its launch in 2012. This was met with groans – but if any manufacturer knows how to get more from less, Ford’s recent record suggests it’s them. Also, it isn’t the end for the 3.2 just yet, as it remains in production in the updated Wildtrak model – but only until the end of the year. Under the Raptor’s bonnet, you’ll find the new and range-topping bi-turbo version of the 2.0-litre engine. This has 210bhp and 369lbf.ft – figures that surpass those of the much-revered 3.2-litre from the previous Wildtrak. You’ll gain access to the engine’s torque slightly later, with maximum figures on tap between 1750 and 2000rpm. Peak power is reached further up, too, at 3750rpm. It’s good when it happens at low revs, but we like torque and power wherever they come, so Ford’s downsizing isn’t necessarily a case of doom and gloom after all. But it’s not an astounding success either. Sadly, we didn’t have any dunes off of which to launch our Raptor. The track we were given to drive on was more like a green lane with a few rough straights to buzz down – and it was here that the powerplant felt most at home. Up and down various climbs, it felt like the unit was working hard off-road. We felt that the

SEPTEMBER 2019

new 2.0-litre unit lacked the same easy-going nature as the 3.2. With a 10-speed automatic gearbox as standard, it takes a bit of a prod of the accelerator to eke any urgency out of the motor. It does respond with some decent poke, but you do need a heavy foot with which to extract it. The 10-speed automatic, however, is surprisingly smooth for a box with so many cogs. It can be controlled via the lovely metallic paddles, but the changes are a tad jumpy and seeing as they’re frequent, we’d just leave it to the computers. This behaviour translates onto the road, too. The twin-turbo unit is more than comfortable at a cruise and is actually remarkably quiet, but the power still doesn’t feel forthcoming from down low. The suspension, however, is simply awesome. The set-up is independent at the front and a multilink solid axle at the back – with truly wonderful Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks on all four corners. These result in a ride that is somewhat on the firm side, but the control and adaptability they offer is immense – and ride-wise, it refrains from ever crashing about and didn’t venture into uncomfortable territory. This is the case both on and offroad. We found it most impressive when battering down a trail at the sort of pace you just wouldn’t ever contemplate on a green lane (battering is the correct term, by the way). You’re well aware of the obstacles beneath you, but the Fox

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shocks revel in suppressing any and all impacts. You’re also treated to a comfortable time on the road, helped by the Raptor cabin being a sophisticated place to be. You’ve got well sculpted suede and leather seats, Ford’s latest SYNC3 multimedia system, complete with an eight-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control and a FordPass Connect Wi-Fi modem. The dash itself is very similar to that in the Wildtrak – meaning the dash panels carry a dulled finish rather than gloss. Whilst the Wildtrak is more subdued than before, with the orange seats a thing of the past, it’s orange stitching is brighter than the blue counterpart in the Raptor, meaning that the dune-hopper would be the sedater of the two, were it not for the red strip around the top of the steering wheel. The host of controls on the wheel are well organised and have an ease of use that means they’re natural to use, whilst the leather of the wheel itself is good quality. You also get speed sign recognition, active cruise control and lane keeping aid which, along with the rear parking sensors and reversing camera, mean the Raptor is as manageable as any truck on the market. The tailgate features the new Easy-lift/lower torsion beam (not a Raptor exclusive), which means you can genuinely close the tailgate with a single finger, which is neat, and the bed comes fitted with a liner and tie-down

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ON TEST hooks beneath the Mountain Top Lockable Cover – which has its own load bars, too. Out back there is also a power plug and all Raptors come as standard with a detachable tow bar. Which brings us onto the irritant at the back of everyone’s mind – the fact that this is a truck for private customers, and private customers only. Yep, the payload falls short of the magic tonne required for classification as a commercial vehicle – by some way, too, at 620kg. Plus, the 2.5-tonne towing capacity is way less than most commercial users would be happy with. But to use that as a stick with which to beat the Raptor is a fool’s errand. Because the Ranger Raptor has no interest in an honest day’s work. The Raptor is a performance car. It’s made by Ford Performance, the division that makes the Mustang and the GT – not to mention the 350bhp F150 Raptor. So, despite it starting in the same place as the Rangers that will go on to graft for a living, the Raptor is here for one thing only – to have fun. Okay, to look badass too, but mainly to have fun. That’s why the Fox shocks don’t enable you to transport a literal tonne of bricks, but they enable you to hit ramps at speed and freaking jump. Which isn’t quite what we did, so it’s difficult to draw a full conclusion on the Raptor as a whole. What we can say, though, is that the strengthened chassis – and particularly the Fox shock absorbers – feel ready for absolutely anything. You can tell, even at low speeds, that they’re sophisticated and heavy-duty, which just makes us want to push them further. They’re surprisingly suited to road miles, too, and go a long way to make up for the somewhat hot and cold engine. On that front, we feel harsh lamenting it at all, as it does a good job – had the old unit not been viewed so fondly there would be no complaints. But we’d expect that in the somewhat lighter non-Raptor versions it will have an easier life. But with the Raptor not being a CV, we should address the financial side of things, too. With the tax savings off the table, the Ranger Raptor won’t be available for less than it’s £48,784 list price. It’s well enough equipped that it

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ON TEST

SEPTEMBER 2019

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ON TEST

doesn’t cry out for any optional extras, but it is still a lot of money. It’s likely that those who do buy a Ranger Raptor will use it in its intended purpose as a toy, in which case it will continue to be expensive, as ragging it about barren expanses certainly won’t return it’s quoted 31.7mpg. But it’s clearly a truck for those who want, rather than need it. So it will be sold entirely to enthusiasts. And no, we can’t think of a legit reason anyone would need to jump a truck either… Whilst we can’t rule conclusively whether the Ranger Raptor is a total success, we are confident it is the super truck it has been billed as. It also only shines a positive light on the new Ranger Wildtrak. The interior is more mature, the ergonomics are all just as you’d want them and there is a whole

bunch of kit that is all worthwhile, too. It’s good news for the engine, too. The 2.0-litre unit should have an easier time of it in the Wildtrak – which does have a one-tonne payload and can tow 3,500kg. As for the Raptor, it’s a hoot and we haven’t even tried it at what it does best. It will certainly cope with all but a few things the UK could throw at it with those bespoke 285/70/R17 BFGoodrich KO2s and the six stages of its Terrain Management System. We’re not too sure how often you’d use Baja mode in the UK, though. You could use it as a working vehicle, I suppose. But only if you’re job, for some reason, requires emergency deliveries of half a tonne into the middle of a desert. But that’s niche at best. Would be hard to have more fun in a pick-up truck, though.

Get these tyres on your truck… BFGoodrich may have made some bespoke KO2s for the Ranger Raptor, but they also make them in a wide run of standard sizes – which you can get from 4x4 tyre experts 4SITE. Head online to 4site4x4tyres.co.uk to view the range.

AT A GLANCE Base price Fuel consumption Emissions Payload Braked trailer Gross vehicle weight Service interval Warranty

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£48,785 inc.VAT 31.7mpg combined 233g/km 620kg 2,500kg 3,130kg 24 months / 37,000 miles 36 months /60,000 miles

SEPTEMBER 2019

BUYING USED

LAND CRUISER AMAZON: 1998-2007 The Land Cruiser is now synonymous with both luxury and off-road capability, but it was the Land Cruiser Amazon that made the name a threat on two fronts Words: George Dove

BUYING USED

here are no two ways about it – the Toyota Land Cruiser is an icon. Known the world over for being as reliable as clockwork, as tough as those aged proverbial boots and as capable as you need it to be. So, add in legendary reliability and the fact that the Amazon had its sights set on the luxury side of the market, the Amazon should offer plenty of bang for your buck on the used market.

INTERIOR

When they launched the Land Cruiser Amazon in the UK, Toyota compared the entry GX spec to the Range Rover and the VX with more archetypical luxury cars like the BMW 740i, the Jaguar Sovereign and the Mercedes-Benz S420. So inside, you’d expect to find a decent spec sheet for the range-topping VX model. And you did. As standard you’d get air conditioning, a CD player, heated front seats, leather upholstery, an electric sunroof and – the hallmark of a proper luxury vehicle – wooden trim. There was a focus on comfort with the design of the interior, with plenty of leather, armrests on the door cards, easy to use switchgear and a clarity to its layout. There were plenty of storage areas, too, with door pockets, a cubby between the two front seats and a pair of cup holders. The GX goes without some of these lavishing accessories, with cloth seating and no sunroof or electronically adjusted steering column. It retains the electric windows, CD player, and impressively the heated seats, too, but downgrades climate control to usual air conditioning. Without having the electric-sliding glass sunroof, the GX also gains a roof storage console.

DRIVING

Following on from the 80 Series, the next Land Cruiser had big boots to fill. And when the next generation came along, Toyota attempted that in two ways. There was the Land Cruiser J105, which had many of the 80 Series’ underpinnings, and then the J100 that was known as the Land Cruiser Amazon in Britain. Whilst the J105 had the 80

SEPTEMBER 2019

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BUYING USED

Series’ chassis and powertrains, the Amazon had a marginally wider chassis with independent front suspension and used Active Height Control and Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension (TEMS) both front and rear. It was the first time a Land Cruiser had used an independent front setup, and it was the same case with the rack and pinion steering. Both were to further the assault on the more road-friendly luxury SUVs of the time. And it worked. Whilst no threerow vehicle is ever going to possess real on-road athleticism, the independent suspension allowed the Amazon an eager enough turn-in to add some dynamics – as limited at they may be. But, for a vehicle of its height and weight, it has very impressive body control. This is of course helped by the airsprung suspension, which also aids the Amazon’s mass from crashing over bumps and ruts alike.

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SEPTEMBER 2019

BUYING USED

The trick height-adjustable suspension allows the driver to control whether the Amazon sits 50mm above or below its standard ride height. There’s a switch on the centre console that lets the driver choose the setting depending on the vehicle’s load or to suit the driving situation. A speed monitor will return the ride height to normal speed above 3mph when it is in the low setting and will drop it back down from high to standard above 18mph. The dampers are active, too, and will moderate themselves to keep the vehicle level. They also have four settings, including sport and comfort presets depending on how the mood takes you at the wheel. As with all vehicles to bear the Land Cruiser nameplate, the Amazon was proficient off-road. Off the shelf, its 275/60R18 tyres hindered its abilities in the rough stuff – plus the new suspension setup didn’t offer the same level of articulation as the 80 Series. But, it was still very good. Despite the fact that the SUV market had come on leaps and bounds during its lifespan, the largely unchanged Amazon still offered more proper off-road knowhow than anything else. A pair of engines were available in the Amazon – a 4.7-litre

SEPTEMBER 2019

petrol V8 and a 4.2-litre straightsix turbocharged diesel unit. The gasoline burner produces 228bhp and 302lbf.ft at 4,800 and 3,400rpm respectively. But, for those considering working an Amazon, it has to be the diesel. With 201bhp at launch and 317lbf. ft this unit is by far better suited to life as a workhorse. Especially as the power comes sooner – maximum horsepower comes at 3,400 rpm, but the torque is little over idle at 1,400rpm. This made the Amazon unrivalled when it comes to towing, and grunt so low down is fantastic off-road, too. The petrol unit came with an automatic as standard, and as you can imagine it was pretty thirsty. That’s not to say that the diesel would win frugality awards, as it’s still a turbocharged 4.2-litre lump so it definitely won’t. If you’re likely to venture far from the roads in an Amazon, you’d rather be in the diesel as it not only has a centre locking diff like the petrol, but it has one on the rear axle, too. And, of course, that low-down grunt. It was standard in the petrol, but you’d probably appreciate the automatic in the diesel, too. It was optional, but the five-speed manual wasn’t the best box and the automatic, with just four cogs, did a better job. The Land Cruiser Amazon has anti-lock brakes on all four corners, plus a hydraulic brake booster unit so it could comfortably slow itself despite the substantial mass it possesses.

RELIABILITY

Despite being mostly unchanged throughout its nine-year stint, the Amazon proved to be much like all Land Cruisers and remained without a recall. There were a few issues that could crop up for the 100 Series, though. Whilst the independent front suspension brought about much better road manner than a solid axle, it was prone to failure. This could happen in instances where it was hitting the bumps stops, although fret not as several companies manufactured lower wishbones to avoid them cracking. There have also been reports from owners of early Land Cruiser Amazons (1998 and ’99 model years) that the front differential

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BUYING USED centres broke when driving in harsh conditions. These models had a two-pinion diff, whilst from 2000 onwards they were fitted with fourpinion versions and reports of any issues were notably less. Finally comes the cracked cylinder heads on diesel-powered Amazons. This can be a costly fix at over two grand, but if the servicing schedule has been followed it should be healthy. Other minor things to look out for are any signs of rough and careless use off-road – damaged underside, side steps etc – and the brakes. On a truck as vast as this they won’t have had a particularly easy life, as even if it hasn’t been off-road, the older Amazons are over two decades old. So it’s worth checking on the state of them, or, depending on how much you spend on the truck, replace them yourself.

VERDICT

In some ways the Land Cruiser Amazon wasn’t as much of a Land Cruiser as the 80 Series that went before it – or the 105 Series that it was produced alongside – but it successfully changed perceptions

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without losing everything that made it an LC. The truck was always a world beater, but the Amazon just broadened the horizons of what was in the crosshairs. You might not be getting 100% of the 80 Series Land Cruiser’s legendary off-road ability, but you’re still going to be able to cope with a lot more than most other vehicles, plus do so with comfort that is unparalleled in a vehicle this outwardly rugged. We’d categorically go for a 4.2 diesel over the petrol – don’t be fooled by the allure of a V8. Whilst neither have amazing economy, the petrol is woeful. It also won’t pull anywhere near as well as the diesel and it has less off-road hardware at its disposal. Whether to go for the VX or the GX, that bit really is up to you. The range-topper has more kit, for sure, but the base-speccer still has heated seats and has a more practical interior. You’re also getting an engine with tremendous pulling power that’s clever off-road, not too pricey and can pull as big a trailer as any modern pick-up. Being a Land Cruiser, not many on the market have done less

than 100,000 miles. For one of these, you’re looking at £7,000 and up for a petrol and a lower threshold of double that for a diesel. However, if it’s been looked after, i.e. full service history and is still the right shape, you can get a diesel from around the turn of the century for significantly less. At the time of writing, there were examples below £4,000, but

these often had a combination of no or part history and close to or beyond 200,000 miles on the board. We’d avoid these though and look for one that’s been well looked after. Of course, we’d advise you then carry on doing the same, which will leave you with a Land Cruiser that will be one of the best machines around for cruising the land.

Tyres to fit this vehicle The General AT3 has been developed to meet the needs of SUV and pick-up owners who want a combination of exceptional off-road capabilities and confident on-road manners.

THE FIGURES (petrol/diesel) Target price (high mileage) Target price (low mileage) Fuel consumption Power Torque Payload Braked trailer

£5,000 £14,000 17-25.4mpg (combined) 228/204bhp 302/317lbf.ft 667kg 3,500kg

SEPTEMBER 2019

FEATURES

WIDE RANGE OF TALENTS Versatility is at the heart of what a pick-up is. But that doesn't mean you can just bolt any old accessories to them and drive off into the sunset Words and pictures: George Dove

itting out a 4x4 for adventures is easier said than done. The different facets to a well-thought out and executed build cannot be plucked out of thin air and then get thrown together into the final product. It takes years of experience in and around the subject to learn what really works, and what is simply overkill. For many long years, the prime choice for an overlanding vehicle was a Defender 110. But in recent moons, since the end of the analogue off-roader’s production, the trend for base vehicles has shifted towards pick-ups. However, Philip Bond of APB Trading has decades of experience working mainly with Land Rovers, but he’s no stranger to a pick-up either. So, as well as offering servicing and repairs for 4x4s, it makes perfect sense that APB also offer vehicle prep services, putting to use their expertise and wonderful adventure arsenal. A fine example of their work is this here Ford Ranger. Turning it into a well-rounded and capable mobile home, APB have racked their warehouse and come out with a winner. Firstly, the rear tub of the Ranger has been given the Rhino Linings treatment – industry leading load-liner of which APB is an official applicator. Above that is a Bushtech aluminium canopy – imported from South Africa by APB – which not only allows secure storage of cargo in the rear of the truck, but it also allows the Ranger to utilise not one but two Eezie Awn K9 roof racks. Which then allows the fitment of the impressive Eezie Awn Stealth roof tent, which truly is as easy and effective a roof tent as you’ll find. The hydraulic struts mean you simply unclip it and it will rise itself, and then you simply pull it back down using the

SEPTEMBER 2019

FEATURES

handles, tuck the nylon inside the casing and re-close the clasps. So far, this truck isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t all that unusual. Many builds have roof tents and even more trucks have a bed liner. But this Ranger is stocked up to such an extent that you could spend the night just about anywhere it is able to drive. The Rhino-lined rear is home to a wealth of resources that mean occupants have got the means

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FEATURES to keep food chilled, frozen and cook it, plus there’s no worries of the electricity supply running out and it even has running water. A Bushtech Drawer System, complete with a forward mounted water tank, fills the rear quarter but also holds a 60-litre National Luna Fridge-Freezer along with some custom drawer systems for storage. The fridge is supported by a National Luna energy chain, which consists of a DC to DC split charge system with auxiliary power sockets and box. But, whilst this uses the vehicle’s main battery, there is a back-up

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in the form of a solar power kit which uses a portable panel to recharge both the main and auxiliary batteries. Another drain on the electricity, albeit a slim draw of power, is the National Luna LED lighting inside the canopy. Thanks to this lighting you’ll be able to clearly see the tap located in the rear right quarter, next to which you’ll find a fully plumbed gas system with a quick release fitting and a bottle clamp. So, you can easily power a mobile kitchen, with space to store the food, but what about all

of the cutlery and so on, or where to eat it? Fret not, APB have that covered too. The rear has copious storage space with Bushtech cupboards mounted on the inside of the canopy, whilst another Bushtech product – the internally mounted table – ensures that there is somewhere to eat. I know what you’re thinking. With that much worked into the back of the pick-up, where is the room for anything else? Well, the daily essentials can be accommodated in the luggage shelving that was custom built to work with the Bushtech

cupboards, whilst APB have also added in a smaller custom unit in the back, too. Everything added will obviously increase the weight of the build. Whilst the Safari snorkel will, to many, be purely to enable the Ranger to wade through deeper water it will actually help the engine breathe in everyday situations and mean that it copes better with the newfound bulk. I know, it’s a busy truck. And it will keep you and the rest of the family busy on adventures, too. What else could you possibly need from a pick-up?

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S-SERIOUS UPGRADES Working vehicles aren’t always the most sophisticated vehicles, but that doesn’t mean that their sound system can’t be

ONE OF THE side effects of an industrious vehicle is that, by virtue, they aren’t particularly refined. You’ll often find in just about any truck that it’s quite noisy – and it only gets worse out on the open road. This is a shame, because after a long day it can be very freeing to just listen to some music to relax and begin to unwind. But of course, that’s difficult when every time you put your foot down there’s a pretty rambunctious groan from under the bonnet – and driver, too. One way to find navigate around this, mind, would be to upgrade the sound system. As always, Alpine are a safe pair of hands here. The motoring tech giants have recently released their new range of speakers that aim to pack a decent punch per pound. The Alpine S-Series, made with two-way components, offers highlevel performance for its price range, thanks to the inclusion of HAMR Surround (usually found

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higher up the Alpine range), a potent motor and a broad frequency range. The woofer of the S-Series has a cone made from Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (the first to do so) and features a High Amplitude Multi-Roll Surround. It also has a large 35mm voice coil and there is a grille available to keep it both looking smart and protected. It also features a one-inch widerange silk dome tweeter which is

flush mounted and covered by a punched net grille. Peak power for the speakers is an impressive 240 watts, whilst the RMS power comes in at 80 watts. The woofer frame measures 165mm and has a mounting depth of 57.7mm whilst mounting height is just 12mm. Predictably, the tweeter is smaller, with a frame of 37.8mm with a 26.6mm dome and height of 17.4mm. The 6.5-inch and 6x9-inch

models in the S-Series feature a 35mm voice coil, which increases their driving power and controls the motor. The range comes in a host of sizes, which in turn means that Alpine produce S-Series speakers that fit a wide range of vehicles. For a full and more detailed run down of the range, plus to check whether the speakers will fit your ride visit alpine.co.uk and search for the S-Series speakers.

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SPRING IN YOUR STEP

Coil-sprung has its pros and cons, but specialists Pedders have struck out some of the negatives from that list with their new Navara and X-Class kit THERE ARE NUMEROUS benefits to be gained from a coil-sprung rear suspension on a modern pickup, namely that it’s freer when unladen and therefore offers a better and more composed ride. However, when the cargo is piled high, circumstance dictates that it just isn’t as settled. One of the trucks currently on the market with a coil-sprung back end is the Nissan Navara. To help it to offer a more robust performance, suspension experts Pedders have added to their range of load carrying and towing kits for the Nissan pick-up. Adding to the already existing Heavy Duty rear suspension kit, Pedders have announced the Extra Heavy Duty kit, and the Super Heavy Duty kit. Whilst the Heavy Duty kit is ideal for those who will run unladen on a regular basis, the Extra Heavy Duty kit is more for those with a nigh-on permanent load and the Super Heavy Duty kit is for yet more extreme cases. For cases where the truck fluctuates between both unladen and at fully loaded, Pedders also have a kit with an Air Assist air bag in the mix, too, to offer even more rounded performance. So, whatever your requirements are for your Navara, Pedders have a solution that will suit your circumstances. Also, due to the fact that they

share underpinnings, these kits can also be of use to those wanting to make their MercedesBenz X-Class work for a living, too. Full details on the kits can be found at www.pedders.co.uk. Alternatively, to discuss your requirements in more detail you can contact one of the team on 01296 711044. If you’re lucky enough to have an official Pedders dealer local to you, they’d be more than happy to help, too.

IF YOU USE a 4x4 every day of the week, you’ll quickly earn respect for their capabilities. But, have you ever thought of exploiting those attributes on a family holiday? That is exactly what Active 4x4 Adventures can help you experience. They have eight different tours, which span from the African savanna to the mountains of the Alps, all on which you can take your esteemed colleague (the truck, not Simon from accounts) and exploit the full

range of talents. Suitable for all owners of an SUV, 4x4 or pick-up truck, the locations on offer include European trips to Portugal, the Alps, Sardinia and the Pyrenees, whilst there is also the option to spread your wings further and venture to Morocco, Massif, the Western Sahara, Botswana and Namibia. To enquire about or book onto any of those fine trips, contact Barrie Dunbar or head over to the Active 4x4 Adventures website and browse away.

unique fully catered 4X4 tours including outdoor adventure activities

Barrie Dunbar 07739 530124

active4x4adventures.com PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

SEPTEMBER 2019

PRODUCTS

CUSTOMISE CAPABILITY

The General Grabber X3 is a reliable and dependable off-road tyre, and now they’re available with the IN THE WORLD of 4x4s and off-roading, there is a handful of names that will come to mind when you think tyres. And gladly for UK motorists, one of these names is bringing their newest mud-terrain tyre to Britain. After much anticipation, the General’s new mud terrain tyre, the Grabber X3, will hit the market. With a focus on off-road performance, the tyres have been developed with an 80/20 bias in favour of off-road use. Within this new product, the General engineers have worked in three innovative technologies to help it cope with the demands faced by a true mud-terrain tyre. Due to the variety of terrains that the X3 will likely face, it has been bolstered by the inclusion of Extreme Mud to maintain traction in deep mud, Extreme Rock for traversing rocky ground and Extreme Dirt for driving on gravel and dirt. The inclusion of these three technologies rely on a tread pattern

that comprises of deep grooves, channels for mud evacuation and staggered edges aiding grip on sand, mud and gravel. The design of the tyre includes chamfered block edges, with wider tread grooves on the edges and narrower furrows in the tread base. Ergo, stones are displaced faster as to avoid them getting lodged in the tread pattern and diminishing grip. Edges of different angles in the tyre’s tread delivers maximum grip in all ways. There too are a series of ribs designed to deflect stones and gravel away from the sidewalls and allowing the tyre to grip in challenging conditions. To ensure the toughness of the X3, General’s DuraGen Technology has been applied to the construction of the tyre. This means that it is made featuring a three-ply structure for improved strength and puncture resistance. The result of this is 5% better performance than its predecessor on sand and

loose gravel, whilst it is also 10% better over rocky terrain. In terms of on-road performance, the X3 is superior to its predecessor in terms of wet performance whilst it is also quieter on the tarmac. In response to customer demand, the X3 features Smooth Red Letter sidewall markings in places across the range – which covers 37 specific sizes catering for 15 to 20-inch rims and has been approved for speeds of up to 100mph. The Grabber X3 is available through the Micheldever Tyre Services’

network of General Tire dealer specialists and 4SITE 4X4 Tyres. For more information please visit www.generaltire.co.uk or www.4site4x4Tyres.co.uk.

THUNDERPOLE IS GO

Whether you’re off-roading for the fun of it, for work or simply on a large site, communication is key. COMMUNICATION IS KEY. It’s been said before and I dare say it’s true enough that it will be said again. Whether you’re out greenlaning, overlanding, or even just driving convoy – CB radios are useful equipment to have on board to say the least. It too can be very useful with multi-vehicle teams at work, enabling teams to keep in contact along the way. With the Thunderpole T-800, out on the trail you’ll have 80 channels to choose from, so you can rest assured that your crew will be able to find a private channel and successfully hide just how lost you are. It’s

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powered via the 12v socket and has a plentiful four watt RF output. Its LED display lets you know what channel you’re on and there’s also a signal meter, a button to switch between AM and FM. Auto-squeich functionality is included, too, and handily the multi-function microphone is included alongside an extension speaker socket. The T-800 is compact as well, measuring just 115x38x150mm. If you feel like the T-800 would be a valuable addition to your truck, be it for work or just to make sure you can always wind your mates up, visit thunderpole. co.uk to source yours.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

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SPRING IN YOUR STEP

WORKS EXCEPTIONALLY ON ALL-TERRAINS The AT3 combines high off-road performance with superior on-road capabilities. Developed to enhance the potential of working pick-up trucks and 4x4 vehicles. Provides a robust compound for improved tread life on rugged terrain Features an aggressive pattern to work on multiple surfaces with enhanced grip Designed for a smoother, comfortable and quieter drive Safe handling in all-seasons, indicated by the M+S mark and the snowflake symbol General Tire. A brand of Continental.

GRABBER 3 AT unique fully catered 4X4 tours including outdoor adventure activities

YOUR ACCESS TO ANY ADVENTURE Barrie Dunbar 07739 530124

Visit our website for further technical information and details of your nearest 4X4 stockist

active4x4adventures.com

WWW.4SITE4X4TYRES.CO.UK | 0870 112 9401

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SEPTEMBER 2019

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AIMING FOR THE TOP

Davanti may be a fairly new company, but with their new all-terrain tyre they have set their sights high

DAVANTI TYRES HAS made a lot of noise about Terratoura - but a recent series of trial events allowed experienced 4x4 tyre dealers to make up their own minds. The brand invited some of the most experienced 4x4 and off-road tyre specialists to three events and gave them the freedom to test Terratoura against a premium rival. Challenging courses were laid out at Land Rover Experience East of England in Corby, Parkwood Off-Road in Bradford and Buildwas Bank in Telford by three-time Defender Challenge Champion and 2015 Hill Rally winner Edd Cobley. Guests were then sent out with off-road experts to drive the course in both Land Rover Defenders and Ford Rangers. They were able to drive vehicles fitted with a premium brand then switch to identical vehicles running on Terratoura to make a

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direct comparison. Over the three events more than 90 tyre retailers were able to pit Terratoura against one of the best all terrain tyres on the market to see for themselves which delivered the best performance. At each location the premium tyre performed as strongly as expected but Terratoura was consistently ranked as the best performer. ‘We couldn’t have hoped for a better result,” said Davanti Sales and Marketing director Sean Maddocks. ‘Our goal was ambitious, we invited a lot of dealers who are not currently Davanti partners because they have a particular specialism in all-terrain and off-road tyres. ‘Once they were there, Terratoura did what it does and left an impression. A number of our guests were really trying to push Terratoura beyond its limits, expecting it to give in before the

premium tyre did. ‘But it performed as it did in testing, maintaining grip and forward traction on all ground types, holding at acute angles, clearing debris from tread quickly and efficiently and providing all the feedback a driver needs in the rough stuff to be able to make the

correct adjustments. ‘The test series has been a huge success and Terratoura is beginning to make a significant impact in the all-terrain tyre sector just six months after it went on sale.’ Head back to our July issue to read our in-depth review of the impressive all-terrain rubber.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

ALL SEASONS. ALL CONDITIONS. ALL TERRAINS.

“This trial comprised of more challenging terrain, with mud pools, rocky paths, side slopes, and generally sharper changes in elevation. But you know what...

Davanti’s newcomer took it all in its stride.” Mike Trott Pick-up & 4x4 Pro For further information or to find your local retailer, please visit

www.davanti-tyres.co.uk/dealers

ENHANCE ENHANCE

THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR 4X4 YOUR ISUZU D-MAX

Pedders TrakRyder Suspension Lift Kit makes the workhorse D-Max into a more refined passenger vehicle. • Does your 4x4 pickup struggle with the demands you place on it? • Enhanced ride quality in laden & unladen • Not coping well with that largesituations. trailer? • Improved off road ability via raised ride height. • Sagging with the load in the back? • Maintains load capacity.

Then Pedders haveto the solution for you. • Heavy duty kits also available ability tosuspension cope with loads.

www.pedders.co.uk

Specialising in Suspension solutions since 1950 For further information go to www.pedders.co.uk 01296 711044 or please contact your local Pedders experts.

For further information go to www.pedders.co.uk or please contact your local Pedders experts.

info@pedders.co.uk

01296 711 044 info@pedders.co.uk