Tradies Reviews

Mark Oastler road tests and reviews the new Toyota LC78 LandCruiser TroopCarrier GXL with specs, fuel consumption and verdict.

There are currently 10 models competing for customers in the medium-sized 2.5-3.5 tonne GVM commercial van segment, which is dominated by Toyota's HiAce with Hyundai's iLoad and Ford's Transit Custom in an increasingly close fight for second and third place.

Toyota's latest generation HiAce mid-sized van is a comfortable, practical and competent load-hauler in both long wheelbase (LWB) and super-long wheelbase (SLWB) configurations.

The current generation Renault Trafic has become an increasingly strong contender in Australia's competitive mid-sized commercial van market since its debut in 2015.

Encouraged by booming local sales of the RAM 1500 through Ateco Automotive/American Special Vehicles, the Walkinshaw Automotive Group (WAG) has expanded its local RHD re-manufacturing capacity to include the similar-sized Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Unlike the RAM, the Silverado is sold exclusively through WAG's HSV dealerships, but offers the same prized 4.5 tonne towing capacity and lots more.

The Mazda BT-50 had a difficult birth as a Ford Ranger clone in 2011, largely because its elaborate styling didn't seem to know if it was meant to be a car or a truck. However, over the near-decade that has followed, Mazda has done a commendable job through styling tweaks in making the BT-50 look more truck-like and pleasing to the eye.

According to VW Commercial Vehicles Australia, it was constant local requests for a manual transmission option in the Amarok Core V6 by current owners (and potential new customers) that prompted VW's local arm to present such a business case to head office in Germany.

The Ford Ranger line-up attracts plenty of attention but most of that is directed at the higher-specced utes in the range, such as the FX4, Wildtrak or the Raptor - but what about the entry-level variants that are more suited to work than play? Are they worth your consideration? We throw 800kg of horse feed in the back of a Ranger XL 4x2 to see how it performs with a load onboard.

The RAM 1500 stands apart from Australia’s mainstream pack of turbo-diesel dual cab utes, with its muscular Hemi V8 performance, superior 4.5-tonne tow rating and imposing presence. In fact, RAM Trucks Australia proudly claims that its big, brash American pick-up “eats utes for breakfast.”After a week behind the wheel, it’s easy to understand why the RAM 1500 is generating such a strong local sales appetite. It’s an excellent package that’s well suited to tradies and recreational buyers alike, who clearly want something different for breakfast.

The Renault Master range has seen some interior and exterior changes as part of its 2020 update. There's a new look to the nose, a thoroughly upgraded cabin, and new tech as well. But can it compete with much newer rivals like the Mercedes Sprinter and VW Crafter? Let's find out.