Tradies Reviews

The two-step LDV Terron 9 range is capped off by the $58,937 Evolve version. This specification adds 20-inch wheels and tyres, a locking front differential, a better stereo, massage front seats and a heated rear seat.Power comes form the same 2.5-litre turbo-diesel as the entry-level version, with 163kW of power and 520Nm of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission is the only fitment, and the Evolve continues with four-wheel drive with a low-ratio transfer-case.Claimed fuel economy is 7.9 litres per 100km (combined) but our real-world drive netted a number much closer to 9.0L. Even so, with the 80-litre fuel tank, range should be an easy 850km or more.Safety is covered off by the latest driver-assistance aids including AEB and lane-keeping assistance, but some of the calibration is too aggressive in our opinion.The cabin is a five-seater but, because of the way the vehicle is engineered, there's no cab-chassis option available.LDV offers is seven-year/200,000km warranty for the Terron 9, with service intervals at 12 months or 15,000km, with the exception of the first service at 10,000km.

The entry point for the all-new LDV Terron 9 is the Origin variant which aims to keep costs down with the fitment of cloth trim and a few omissions from the equipment list. Even so, with 18-inch alloys, large dual-info screens, full connectivity, paddle-shifter and a 360-degree camera system, the $53,674 is more than the much older LDV T60, but still relevant.Power comes from a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 163kW and 520NM, and that's linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with low ratios for off-road work.LDV claims a combined fuel economy figure of 7.9 litres per 100km, and there's an 80-litre fuel tank for decent range.The cabin seats five but is a little larger than most dual-cabs (as is the cargo area) thanks to the overall larger external dimensions and an interesting design that makes the body side one-piece. The flip-side is that this means there's no cab-chassis variant.Safety is taken care of by driver aids including AEB, lane-departure warning, lane keeping assistance and a front and rear parking sensors.The Terron 9's warranty is a handy seven years/200,000km and servicing intervals are every 12 months or 15,000km, apart from the very first service which is scheduled for 10,000km.

We finally know what the Kia Tasman is like on Australian roads. And Kia is playing a very smart game. Yes, the design is divisive, but it stands out. The cabin is vast and practical, yet also comfy, easy and beautiful. As a workhorse, this ute is right up there. And, with some reservations, this is an enjoyable drive. Willing and tough yet friendly and charming, Tasman is a terrific first effort.

Need a dual-cab ute? You’re in luck. Not only does Australia have access to a huge variety of makes and models in the dual-cab space, there is also a huge range of prices and equipment levels.

The number of Chinese players in Australia’s 4x4 ute market continues to rise, with BYD, GWM and LDV recently joined by JAC Motors (Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Company Ltd) with its T9 offering.

Iveco’s E6 Daily van and cab-chassis range recently welcomed an electric twin in the form of its new eDaily variant. Launched in Europe in late 2022, it represents the first Iveco full-electric vehicle range to be offered in Australia.Being based on the conventional diesel Daily ensures eDaily customers will be familiar with the specifications and features of these vehicles in either van or cab chassis form.The eDaily also ensures a seamless transition for commercial bodybuilders, given that its main electrical components sit wholly within the conventional chassis frame and the body-mounting positions are unchanged.We recently spent a working week with the full-electric model to assess its credentials for not only tradie duties but also door-to-door distribution, cold-chain logistics and many other job requirements at the Light Duty end of the Heavy Commercial vehicle market.

The GWM Cannon has always offered great value for money with high levels of standard equipment at low prices. In 2025 it's shifted up a gear with a larger engine, benchmark towing and numerous other enhancements, so is that what's needed to topple the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux?

The latest Ram 1500 range swaps traditional Hemi V8 power for a new twin-turbocharged straight six offering more power and torque. So, how does the new 'Hurricane' engine perform in a working role?

The Mazda BT-50 boasts good looks and solid Isuzu engineering, so how does it measure up as a tradie's tool-of-trade in cab-chassis form?

The BYD Shark 6 brings advanced plug-in electric/petrol engine hybrid technology to Australia's 4x4 ute segment. But does it have the robust workhorse capabilities of traditional turbo-diesel rivals?