4WD Dual-Cab Ute 2015 Comparison
Eight new 4WD dual-cabs go head-to-head, one comes out on topThe dual-cab ute segment has undergone its biggest-ever overhaul this year with six new or updated models entering the Australian market. They join segment stalwarts like the Isuzu D-MAX and Volkswagen Amarok in offering potential buyers a wide range of multi-purpose options. But which of the eight models on test is the best value for money, and will our reigning dual-cab champ, the Amarok, hold onto its title?
The dual-cab ute market is one of the healthiest new-vehicle segments in Australia. Sales numbers rival the best-selling passenger vehicle classes with total numbers almost half those of the strong-selling SUV sector. In a nutshell that means nearly one-in-six new vehicles sold Down Under have a tray out back – which makes this test rather important.
On test are the eight biggest sellers in the dual-cab 4WD division. They include the recently revised Ford Ranger, facelifted Holden Colorado, unchanged Isuzu D-MAX, updated Mazda BT-50, heavily revised Mitsubishi Triton, new Nissan Navara, all-new Toyota HiLux and carry-over Volkswagen Amarok.
As near as possible each is tested in matching grade with a list price averaging $53,000. All are powered by turbo-diesel engines, all are four-wheel drive and all are optioned with an automatic transmission.
Our test aims to put the vehicle through their paces in the very environs for which they were designed. We'll look at how they perform on and off-road, laden and unladen, and of course when towing. We will also investigate how well each vehicle stands up to market expectations of safety and technology – and examine the ins and outs of their respective tray dimensions and payload capacities.
As is the case with all motoring.com.au comparisons there will be only one winner. Given the variety of exercises in the comparison the victor will be the vehicle with the best all-round capability and the one we feel offers the best value for money. Let the games begin...
carsales' 4WD Dual-Cab 2015 comparison
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