4x4 Seek

Ford Ranger Ute, Hi tech meets work truck.!

2011-10-08T06:59:00.001+10:00

The Ford Ranger's square-cut, mini-F150 styling offers a level of comfort, technology and driving demeanour that is streets away from the outgoing model.

If there is any Ford that it does compare with, it's not one of the Blue Oval's trucks.

After clocking about 800km over two days, I reckon the doublecab four-by-four in its entry and medium-grade forms is more akin to an elevated, 4WD diesel-engined Falcon.

Maybe I was out in the sun for too long in the arid, 34degC heat of Wilpena Pound.

This astounding natural wonder, one hour by aircraft (the outward journey) and almost five by road (my return trip) inland of Adelaide, is where we tested the rig's off-road mettle.

The Ranger's importance cannot be understated.

It will be sold in 180 countries, giving it the broadest global reach of any vehicle in the Ford family, earning developer Ford Australia $A700 million in fees.

Very little of the old model - "a handful of stuff, you could stick it in your pocket," says engineer-in-charge Gary Boes - has transferred in what is a huge forward step in ute evolution.

The Ranger is possibly the most high-tech ute yet.

Article thanks to: RICHARD BOSSELMAN ON SAT, 8 OCT 2011 Drive South

Toyota FCHV Electric fuel cell Technology

2011-08-27T06:09:00.000+10:00

Sometime soon this technology will be utilized in a showroom ready vehicle. Take a look at the Toyota FCHV.

This Kluger offers a fuel cell that makes its own on board electricity which drives the electric motor. Driven by Hydrogen this clean alternative fuel vehicle is being tested in the US and is proving on today's running costs a tenth of normal Kluger expenses. Not only that for those just introduced to Hydrogen this vehicle only emits water from the exhaust.
Now if you were to do a Paris Hilton and just want one expect about 2 Million Dollars currently, however the production model when and if would be considered again at today's level to be about $50,000.

Just 4x4 sales Australia

Ford Territory Diesel 2011

2011-07-30T06:56:00.000+10:00

Ford territory Diesel is the first diesel to be marketed to the masses, including a high emphasis on the female buyer. Years gone by and the diesel has been and still is thought as, as a dirty noisy blokey type of vehicle.

The ford Territory is here to highlight that diesel is a alternative fuel 4x4 vehicle and can be a real option to the consumer.

2011 Nissan Patrol

2011-05-28T08:39:00.001+10:00

Lets just go back to the 2010 Sydney motor show for the launch of the 2011 Nissan Patrol.
This Nissan has some minor updates. Its been said currently that we will expect more for the 2012 Nissan Patrol.

Vehicle Sales down in Australia, SUV's look good

2011-05-07T11:26:00.000+10:00

Image via Wikipedia
April was a continuing trend of sales decline in all segments of the motor trade. Overseas and local natural disasters plus a tight hold of purse
Image by Getty Images via @daylifestrings by householders seem to have reflected a 10% (on 2010) drop in sales. This in daily figures represents about 326 cars per day not sold compared to 2010.. Sales in the compact and luxury SUV seemed to be bright but sedan sales are on a rapid decline.
via @daylife
Top brand is Toyota followed by GM followed by Hyundai. Ford managed 1 sale to 2 Toyota so far for the year. The Holden commodore sedan appears to out sell the ailing Ford falcon 2 to 1.
In the SUV market Subaru Forrester, Rav 4 and the increasingly popular Hyundai Ix 35 make the top 3.
The big mover in the Aussie market is Renault and Hyundai the decline seems to be Honda.
Although not here to analyse sedan sales but as a footnote in parallel with worldwide trends the what was once the primary market in Australia the large family sedan has slumped 20% so far this year. displaying a poor result for locally manufactured vehicles.

Just4x4sales Australia

Oh, what a recall,,Toyota

2011-05-01T07:26:00.000+10:00

Toyota in the USA has been hit again with those dreaded recalls. This time its some 308,000 vehicles relating to a unwanted airbag deployment. They include 2007-2008 Toyota RAV 4 and 2008 Toyota Highlander.

Now unwanted airbag deployment can be a serious thing bit the issue here is involving two sensors in the airbag system. Should both sensors fail simultaneously it may lead to that unexpected activation of the airbags. Based on the reports this is occurring in the US only but check with your friendly recall ...oh I mean Toyota dealer

Middle East 4x4 Rally is very special.

2011-03-01T19:57:00.000+10:00

4x4 Rallies in the Middle east are big business as is dune driving obviously. But the big money goes to the middle east dominated field in this years Saudi Arabia Ha'il Desert Challenge.
Fastest time went to Toyota FJ cruiser a truly popular 4x4 vehicle through out the world.

Heres the latest from Arab News:

HA'IL: Qatar's Nasser Saleh Al-Attiyah and German co-driver Timo Gottschalk cruised into a 38.8 second lead in the Saudi Arabia Ha'il Desert Challenge after the opening 6.8km super special stage, near Ha'il, in the north-central region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Bidding to win his third event of the season so far, the Qatari will now open the road for the first of two punishing selective sections through the An Nafud desert on Wednesday. The Dakar Rally winner arrived in Ha'il on Sunday and quickly adapted to being back in his Wolfsburg-prepared Volkswagen Race Touareg, after winning last weekend's Qatar International Rally in a Ford Fiesta S2000.

The rally had been flagged off by Saudi Arabian Motor Federation (SAMF) President Prince Sultan bin Bandar Al-Faisal. Saudi Arabia's Saleh Al-Saleh and Dubai-based French co-driver Xavier Caminada set the second fastest time on the short opening stage in their Toyota Team Saudi Arabia-run Toyota FJ Cruiser.

The UAE's Nabil Al-Shamsi and Nou Bu Humaid were third in a Nissan Patrol, while Sami and Abdullah Al-Shammeri set the fourth fastest time in a Bakhashab Isuzu D-Max.

Ford SUV Vertrek Voted NO 1 By Autoweek in Detroit.

2011-01-15T06:04:00.001+10:00

Ford Vertrek Has been given best concept vehicle at the Detroit Motor show . The big auto event in January always shows off the whats coming of 2011.
This Ford SUV is what will most likely be the blueprint for the future design of SUV's in the next decade.
Here is part of the Press release 14 Jan 2011 from Ford

The Vertrek concept takes its inspiration from the European Ford Kuga crossover, hailed as the design leader in its segment, and takes the promise of a future global compact SUV to the next level.

The new sleeker, sportier design intelligently integrates the capability requirements that customers demand in this segment with an interior cargo volume comparable to today’s Ford Escape.

“Overall, the Vertrek concept is a sleeker, sportier and smarter representation of what customers want in a compact SUV,” said Smith. “Additionally, the exquisite detailing, such as the execution of the headlamps, taillamps and wheels, evokes advanced technology and craftsmanship.”

2010 Dodge Ram 1500 Review

2010-12-06T21:39:00.000+10:00

2011 Landrover LR4

2010-11-21T11:15:00.000+10:00

Stylish with a capital S, The Landrover LR4 delivers its usal quality and style to those that like that quality and style. For years now Landrover has had its issues and in certain tough environments e.g Australia and Middle east this vehicle could be considered to be a expensive partially unreliable 4x4 vehicle. The 2011 may still hold this stigma in those markets however like it or not it has merit and for those looking for that style that is offered this model is a good as its been. Fuel economy is a issue but ride and features have improved.

Just4x4sales Australia
Winding Road a top web site lists many of the Pros and cons. Heres just a sample of what they said.

The LR4 has the great new Jaguar/Land Rover 5.0-liter V-8. What this means in practice is that—almost uniquely among 5000-plus-pound SUVs—the LR4 never feels underpowered. This isn’t to suggest that you should sell the Z06 or the 911 Turbo, but that for such a large car the LR4 really moves gracefully and with little strain. You can easily adjust speeds on the highway and the LR4 simply goes faster. Accelerating away from light or executing a pass is almost never accompanied by the thought, “Gee, I wish this thing had a bit more oomph.” The BMW X5 has a similar feeling; though I didn’t feel that the drivetrain there was quite as seamless in its power deliver as it is on the LR4.

2. Land Rover deserves every bit as many kudos as Audi for interior styling and materials. The oeuvre of the LR4 is naturally different than what Audi does, the Land Rover aiming for a modernized rendition of the traditional, which works out brilliantly because the LR4 is “old school” without being “old man.” Land Rover’s execution of this aesthetic is helped along by its unabashed functionality, with lots of knobs and switches for off-roading. But it isn’t just the design that is attractive, the materials and the colors are about the best in the under $100K world. Frankly, this car makes some Audis look a bit drab and plasticky.

3. The driving dynamics of the LR4 are pretty good. The car feels rather massive, which it is, but it doesn’t wallow or pitch or roll unnecessarily. Just as important, the steering feel is decent, with good on center directness and reasonable feedback. Overall the LR4 feels well damped and stable. I would put it just a tick behind the BMW X5 in this area, the only comparative shortfall being a small amount of lateral slop in the suspension. This puts it miles ahead of most other medium sized SUVs.

—Tom Martin, Editorial Director

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2010-10-30T17:43:00.003+10:00

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 USA
Engine: V-6, 3.6 liter, 24v
Output: 290 hp/260 lb-ft
Weight: 4660 lbs
Fuel Economy, City/Hwy: 16/22 mpg
Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs
Base Price: $32,215
As Tested: $35,935
On Sale: Now

Just 4x4 Sales

GMC Sierra Denali 2500 4WD for 2011

2010-10-25T21:14:00.001+10:00

In the world of pick up 4x4 trucks the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali would have to be top of the class. Luxury style and a hint of fuel economy coupled with a throbbing 6.6 LT V8 Turbo Diesel and Allison Automatic and you have a mean truck for 2011.

Check just some of these features
• Air conditioning, dual-zone automatic climate control
• AM/FM stereo with MP3-capable 6-disc in-dash CD changer
• Bose® premium speaker system with subwoofer
• Cruise control
• Colour-keyed carpeting with carpeted floor mats
• Seats, front bucket, includes 12-way power driver and front passenger seat adjusters
• Steering wheel, leather-wrapped, colour-keyed with theft-deterrent locking feature
• Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls
• Tire pressure monitoring

see more Alternative to Ford F250

Toyota Land cruiser recall 2010

2010-10-01T20:51:00.000+10:00

Image via Wikipedia
Toyota Landcruiser in Australia is the biggest market in the world next to the middle east. Luckily the landcruiser has not proven to have some of the flaws experienced overseas.
A massive global recall of almost half a million Toyotas includes the mighty Toyota LandCruiser in Australia.
Toyota Australia will recall 4368 LandCruisers as part of a global recall to fix a steering defect.
The LandCruiser and its upmarket sibling, the Lexus LX470, are being recalled as part of a global campaign that affects 480,000 vehicles, mostly Avalon sedans (373,000) sold in the United States.
A Toyota spokesman confirmed the recall will affect 2630 LandCruiser Sahara models and 1738 Lexus LX470s sold between 2003 and 2007.
Australia is the second largest market globally for LandCruisers (behind the Middle East), although the latest recall of the 100-Series model only affects more expensive Sahara models with a variable steering system.
"There have been four cases [of steering failures] reported worldwide but none in Australia," said Toyota spokesman Glenn Campbell.
The LandCruiser is known as the king of the outback in Australia, where its reputation for reliability and off-road prowess are almost unmatched in rugged areas.
LandCruisers are favoured by farmers and mining companies as well as being popular with families who use them to ferry kids, although this latest recall doesn't affect models that appeal to the masses.
The recall was announced in the United States yesterday, with a statement saying the steering could disengage on LX470 vehicles built between 2003 and 2007.
The Lexus LX470 is based on the Toyota LandCruiser; models affected include the now discontinued 100-Series.
Just 4x4 sales australia

2010 Nissan Frontier LE 4x4 Crewcab AKA Navara

2010-08-23T17:29:00.000+10:00

Nissan has not really had a good run in the light truck market. The Australian Nissan Navara is what this truck is all about.
Traditionally the Australian market has lacked a truck with some power and towing ability. The later model navara's (Frontier) filled this void and has been very successfull.
Remember Australia since 1994 missed the Ford F150 and the F250 2001-2004 was way out of the price range. The Toyota product in recent years lacked the towing ability and Nissan produced a true 3 tonne capacity that stalled any sales in the direct import light truck market.
Navara during the 80's and 90's still produced a worth while truck with good 4x4 capacity. Navara (frontier) had always produced a comfortable truck with some reasonable basic features. Navara had power steer well before Hilux, Its towing was improved and suspension improved well before any opposition. Many early models had standard Air cond very important in Australia.

Its nice to see this Nissan frontier in other markets. Light truck buyers should be aware this is not just a fly by night thought, there would be about 30 years of evolution in this LE 4x4 Crew cab.
Just 4x4 sales

Toyota Fortuner All diesel all 4x4

2010-08-09T07:29:00.000+10:00

Its new and currently its just in India. Its the true SUV Toyota Fortuner

Made from 50% local components this full time 4x4 offers upmarket features including leather seats with a basic diesel engine and manual only transmission.
Toyota are on to something with this and India is the perfect test market.
Auto trans may be on the plans but is not a option currently.

Checkout the product launch news report on the Fortuner by Toyota

Mazda BT50 Sales Boom In Australia

2010-08-09T07:19:00.000+10:00

What a year it has been so far for Mazda BT 50 Ute.

Firstly it was voted Ute of the year by Australian 4WD monthly and now has hit record sales in the land of the Ute.

To add to this the BT50 in the Mazda camp is a true winner being Mazda's second best selling product.
It seems one reason for this is the much in demand diesel engine and load carrying capability offering good value for money.
Sales in July 2010 were 1104 units making Mazda's share in the commercial market in Australia 5.8 %

Just 4x4

Kia Sportage 2011

2010-08-07T08:59:00.001+10:00

Well I said I would'd do it but I will.
I will mention (only briefly )the2011 Kia Sportage.
In the US its pronounced Sport AGE Call me upmarket I still prefer sport ARGE.
In 1995 this vehicle appeared that resembled a budget large tin can on wheels. It sold plenty, reasons it was cheap and in a way value for money. That market segment really had Honda and Toyota only . I personally got involved with KIA in 2002 and the experience dealing with the national distributors was like buying toothpaste in a nickel and dime store. Its company was rough just like the product. Again saying all this KIA produced a vehicle that you could buy cheaply new and it actually did somethings just like real SUV's.
The Sportage at this time looking like a ten year old new car seemed to be miss-aligned with the poor reliability shown in some of KIA's other models. I adopted the the philosophy of realizing these vehicles were designed to give a certain life span and after that just pray to the money gods.
2011 and KIA have designed a vehicle with the same concept as previously but now offers a vehicle that looks the part.

Here is a recent comment from a very influential automotive site.

On the road, Kia's 2.4 never got thrashy or made ugly noises. Quite the opposite. At WOT there was a nice growl and the powertrain remained smooth right up to the 6000 rpm redline.

Feeling through the electrically assisted power steering is much better than so many models already on the road. With electric units, it seems that they're either really good or really bad because everything can be tuned. Kia engineers found a balance that delivers a good self-centering action (like dialing in lots of front suspension positive caster) without creating an on-center dead zone. The system also lets enough feeling through that you know the steering wheel actually connected to something that's moving over an ever-changing, textured surface. Turn-in is sharp for a crossover.The 2011 Kia Sportage is a nice package

just 4x4 sales

No place for greenies here..Go Nissan Xterra S

2010-05-29T19:07:00.001+10:00

Its a truck based SUV, Rugged, good off road, has plenty of space and isn't one of those fairy floss style city slicker trucks to be flashed around only at the supermarket. This 2010 Nissan is no innocent greenie loving tree hugging vehicle at all. it is what it is a good reliable truck that will diversify its uses for most moderate circumstances. 2010 is a good year for the Nissan Xterra S as many previous earlier model owners would agree.

Chris from that terrific web site Winding road recently wrote:

"First, the XTerra is fairly stiffly sprung and damped, so that its ride is more firm than plush, with a certain amount of hobby horse-like fore and aft movement when traversing badly rippled surfaces or broken pavement. Steering is direct and decently weighted, but—in the manner of most trucks or truck-like vehicles—does not offer much in the way of road feel or communication. But overall, what I think most drivers would report is that the XTerra conveys a sense of robustness and strength—showing a kind of a go-anywhere/do-anything persona that is very appealing in its way.

Second, Nissan’s signature V-6, which feels revvy and free-spirited in many applications, exhibits a more—forgive me for putting it this way—agricultural character as implemented in the XTerra. In truth, the engine is plenty strong. It’s just that it is moving more mass in the Xterra—a fact that’s reflected in the exhaust note you hear and the levels of throttle response you feel.

Three major plusses for the Xterra, however, are its clean, no-nonsense interior/ and instrument panel, its elevated, stadium-style rear seats, and the useful and pragmatic layout of its storage spaces (both within and, yes, above the vehicle). The roof rack/roof storage cage are very beefy, so that the whole package invites you to take whatever stuff you want, wherever you want. If that’s not a good working definition of an SUV, what else would be?

—Chris Martens

$WD Conversion for Handicapped

2010-05-23T16:14:00.000+10:00

One mans frustration has created a whole new concept to aid handicapped drivers

Enter Tom Kelley, president of Kelley Automotive Group, which owns several car dealerships in Fort Wayne.

His Saturn dealership closed when GM stopped manufacturing the line to save itself from bankruptcy. He says the news "was like a dagger to my heart." But when he heard about Steve Kitchin's ambitious new company, he offered his empty Saturn building for its factory.

"My dad's favorite line was he never did anything on his own. That everything that ever happened to him that was significant happened because people lent him a helping hand. So I just sort of thought, you know, my dad would be all over this and I said Steve, 'Go, start using the building. We'll figure it out.'"

GoShichi began production in January. It's not only filling a void for disabled drivers, it's creating new jobs. Kitchin says he currently employs 17 workers, but eventually plans to hire as many as 200.

Rather than having an assembly line where the trucks are constantly moving, GoShichi rotates its workers. This eliminates the need for expensive assembly line equipment, which keeps the cost of Kitchin's conversions similar to that of a modified minivan.

VOA - E. Celeste

Kitchin uses a specially adapted wheel to steer his vehicle.

Kirk McKenzie, who was laid off from a forklift factory, says his new job with GoShichi is a better fit. "It makes you feel good at the end of the day."

A growing need

There are 10,000 new spinal cord injuries each year in the United States. Most are young men under the age of 26. Although thousands of minivans are converted for use by disabled drivers each year, most young men —disabled or not —would rather be driving anything but a minivan.

GoShichi is converting 30 trucks a month, and Kitchin hopes to double that number by the end of the year. The company is already creating a ripple effect in the local economy. Its suppliers say their businesses are starting to pick up. Kelly's truck dealership is selling more vehicles to GoShichi to be converted, and an RV manufacturer down the road is asking for help building modified campers.

Kitchin is already focusing on the future. "We're really looking forward to where all this can take us."

He has plenty of other ideas for disabled drivers. After his success with pickup trucks, he hopes to move on to the big rigs, modifying tractor-trailers to give disabled truckers a chance to go back to work.

Thanks to VOA-News

Just4x4sales.com.au

Toyota FJ Cruiser 2010

2010-05-02T18:26:00.000+10:00

Its got the looks , now the style and a revamped engine. Its the 2010 /2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Toyota have hit the nail on the head in this market of 4x4 SUV. Its modern, savvy and has terrific appeal for the freedom generation.
Well done Toyota. Not yet Available in Australia

JUST 4x4 Sales

Mercedes ML 320

2010-04-25T12:29:00.000+10:00

The Mercedes Benz M class has for ten years been a bench mark in the world of prestige 4x4 vehicles.
This Mercedes vehicle has been a leader but it seems the likes of BMW and Audi 4x4 are fast catching up.
New technologies and materials have seem to left the ML back in about 2003.
Not letting that detract from what is still a fine 4x4 vehicle the ML new style and look for 2010 is still a winner,
Here are some pros and cons from recent tests

Pros

Good gas mileage for a big SUV (18/24, city/highway)
Starting price undercuts competitors
Seven-speed auto versus the standard six-speed

CONS
Steering/Suspension combination is fear inducing
Transmission isn’t geared for fun
Driving dynamics are put to shame by direct competitors

New Grand Cherokee 2011

2010-03-21T13:27:00.000+10:00

It looks nice, and fuel consumption in comparison to similar vehicles is good. European design with influence from car maker Alfa romeo has created a new look aimed obviously at the big European market.
Styling still seems traditional on the surface but thats about it. This Jeep manufactured like all grands that hit non USA markets are made in Europe. Servicing and parts cost outside of the manufacturing region can be as in the past rather high.
Like all grand Cherokees this will be no different. It will offer style, luxury and value for money, and like all before it depreciation and high servicing costs.

Just 4x4 Sales Australia

Hilux Big seller in Australia

2010-02-13T06:42:00.000+10:00

Toyota Hilux 4x2 and 4x4 is the third biggest selling vehicle in Australia. Recent figures have shown that the large car market that has dwindled in the last decade has been replaced by the multi purpose Hilux.

Australia is a small market compared to many but add a couple of zeros or not, the percentages stack up.
Holden Commodore(Chev 3.8 V6) was the obvious number 1. A popular 4 door family car that is iconic down under hit no.1 with 44, 387 units. Interesting to note that this vehicle makes up a huge part of the fleet market. Second was the Toyota Corolla with 39.013 and Hilux number 3 with 38,457 units.
Surprises well no but interesting to note the further north you go in Australia the better Hilux sales are.
Other vehicles in the top 10 do not include any other 4x4 or commercial but is dominated by 4 cyl vehicles like Camry, Mazda 3 and Mitsubishi Lancer.

Just 4x4 sales

Jeep SRT- 8, As fast as a Cayenne turbo ??

2010-02-05T21:28:00.001+10:00

6.1 Litre V-8 Power, I heard it said that in a straight line this was as quick as the Porshe Cayenne Turbo.
Enter the world of performance SUV's.

The humble older style Jeep design has now launched its marketting into serious mode with this performer.
Expect 420 Horse power and 420 LBS/FT torque.
Parts, servicing and fuel now thats a topic for another day.

Its just very special. Oh and its a Jeep thing.

Just4 x4sales

Jeep Renegade Liberty 2010

2010-01-08T20:46:00.000+10:00

Renegade returns after a short break. It was 1964 and the jeep Wagoneer Renegade delighted buyers with a family 4x4 vehicle remembered by many. Later years the Renegade as a more stylish off road Wrangler, 2010 and the renegade returns as the Liberty Renegade.
Here is what they are saying
"The new 2010 Jeep Liberty Renegade boasts a new premium, rugged appearance with standard class-leading capability features, while the Jeep Wrangler lineup is expanded with unique limited-edition models - Jeep Wrangler Islander and Jeep Wrangler Mountain - that deliver high-impact visual appeal with outdoor fun-and-freedom themes.

"While clearly appealing to our core customers, these three new Jeep models will attract new customers to the Jeep dealer showroom," said Mike Manley, President and CEO - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "The new Liberty Renegade delivers renowned Jeep capability and an array of standard features in a stunning new rugged, premium design, while both Wrangler models expand the iconic anchor of the Jeep brand with unique, limited-edition versions that consumers have told us they want."

The new Jeep Liberty Renegade and Jeep Wrangler Islander edition will be available in Jeep showrooms in the first quarter of 2010. The Jeep Wrangler Mountain edition will follow in the second quarter.