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Now its been joined by the Single Cab-chassis and King-Cab variants, both made a lot closer to home in Thailand, and both benefiting, price-wise, from Australia’s Free Trade Agreement with our Asian neighbour.
The utility market in Australia has been one of the sales strengths of our burgeoning vehicle market, with strong demand from tradesmen, industry and the mining sectors.
Despite essentially have only one model, it is available in 4×2 and 4×4 variants, the Nissan Navara Dual Cab has sold nearly 9000 units already this year and the 4×4 model is the second strongest selling utility in the market.

A trio of King Cab models is now available powered by a muscular 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine delivering 126kW power and a superior 403Nm torque in 4×4 models.
Two transmissions are on offer, the standard six-speed manual and an optional 5-speed automatic. The six-speed manual has a ‘long’ overdrive top gear for better economy and quieter running.

At the same time Nissan is adding a Single Cab Chassis manual transmission model to the family that features a separate two-passenger bench seat and an even longer load bed for those who want the practicality of a tough, modern workhorse with the latest features.

The Nissan Navara King Cab offers seating for four, thanks to a pair of fold-down rear seats which, when folded, allow more than enough room for luggage or tools behind the front seats.

The King Cab allows easy entry to the rear of the cab thanks to a rear-hinged door on either side that opens wide. With no B pillar to impede entry or egress, occupants will find cabin entry and egress comfortably easy. Safety is also a priority with headrests and 3-point seatbelts for all four passengers.

Thanks to the longer load bed, compared with the Navara Dual Cab, the new King Cab ST-X Pick-Up can fit 1855mm long loads into its rear tub.

Three King Cab models are available; the RX King Cab Chassis, which along with the premium specification ST-X King Cab Chassis, can be fitted with a Genuine Nissan aftermarket tray; and the sportiest ST-X King Cab Pick-Up which comes with its own tub and integrated tub liner, sports bar, rear chrome step bumper and remote fuel release.
“The new Navara King Cab is destined to play an important role in tightening Nissan’s grip on the light commercial vehicle market,” said Dan Thompson, CEO of Nissan Australia.

“We see the King Cab models entering a growing market segment, where the need to balance a large load with the ability to carry four in safety and comfort, if only occasionally, will be greatly appreciated by our customers.
“Many Navara customers have something big to tow, and with a 4×4 class-topping 403Nm torque and a 3000kg towing capacity (equalling class-best) across the range, that should be no problem.”

We gave the Navara King Cab 4×4 a reasonably brief but fairly challenging drive across some forest tracks out of Canberra and the overall impression was one of considerable competence.
The vehicle, an automatic, which has a novel but quite useful side shift function between first and second gears, was able to cope with deep ruts, steep descents and some challenging climbs over rough and broke roads.

 It had more than adequate power from the very torquey diesel engine and with the added advantage of being able to carry two occasional passengers in the rear, should prove an appealing option for many tradesman who want to be able to run the kids to a sports event on the weekend, or other less work-like demands.
Equally it will appeal to businesses where the option of being able to carry more than just the two regular passengers is a worthwhile option.
Nissan Navara King Cab Range:
RX King Cab Chassis $38,160
ST-X King Cab Chassis $41,160
ST-X King Cab Ute $42,660
Five-speed automatic $2250
Nissan Navara Single Cab
RX Single Cab Chassis $33,660

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He also intimated that Ford globally was working of “low displacement, forced induction” engine technology, taken to mean small displacement engines that use both turbo and supercharging to provide the power and performance of a much larger engine while offering the fuel efficiency of a small engine.

Ford Australia President Bill Osborne, who normally takes the media briefing but is in the United States where the Australian government is discussing the future of the local automotive industry with both General Motors and Ford, has already said the Falcon will have diesel power by 2010, when it also switches from a locally-made straight six-cylinder engine to an imported V6.

Mr Winslow said Ford definitely saw a lot more diesel-powered cars in its future, along with other developing technologies, but was not really talking about hybrids.

He said the E-Gas Falcon was a proven green vehicle that provided both lower tailpipe emissions and lower running costs.

He cited the example of an E-Gas Falcon XT which he said, run over 25,000 kilometres a year, was $350 cheaper to operate than the best-selling Toyota Corolla.

Mr Winslow said that in the past two years E-Gas Falcons had gone from having residual values $1000 less than a petrol car to commanding a $2500 premium.

Further questioning the rush to hybrids, Mr Winslow posed the question of who would buy all the three year old used hybrids that would head onto the market as a result of the government backed push to encourage Toyota to build 10,000 Hybrid Camry’s a year in Australia.

“We would be concerned about the profile of the second user for such cars, which we expect in the first place will be bought by companies and government.”

He questioned whether typical second-hand private buyers would be keen to take on hybrids, with the potential of costly battery replacement.

“E-Gas on the other hand has the proven record of operating economy plus it is greener, with four per cent less emissions, and that is where Ford is already firmly established.”

Mr Winslow also confirmed that E-Gas was now being built in the new FG Falcon range and said the cars were being shipped to dealers.

He also emphasised that from about 2010 Ford would be pursuing its plans for a diesel engine in the Falcon and added that once the next-generation Focus small car was being built in Australia, it too would offer a locally-made diesel alternative.

He said Ford believed these cars would also present a strong case to government and fleet buyers as alternatives that were fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.

Mr Winslow said that in 2007, of total Falcon sales, 15 per cent of sedans, 41 per cent of wagons and 37 per cent of utilities were E-Gas.

He said Ford had stepped up production of the LPG components about two years ago and was in a position to meet almost any demand for E-Gas in the future.

He also added that by 2010 Ford would have the Australian-built Focus with a diesel engine to compete with the Toyota Camry hybrid when it eventually became available.

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Ssangyong says this makes it the best priced dual cab diesel on the market.
To borrow, and bend, a famous phrase the SsangYong Tradie ‘will be available in any colour so long as it is white’ and will be equipped with steel wheels and a front disc/rear drum brake set-up.
SsangYong spokesperson Kylie Claude says that while the Tradie is a low price workhorse it still comes with a swag of standard features including air-conditioning, power windows, remote locking and dual SRS airbags at no extra cost.

It utilises a diesel, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, common rail, turbo engine generating maximum power of 104kW at 4000rpm and maximum torque of 310Nm at 1800rpm, making it ideal as a tough workhorse or a smooth and quiet everyday drive.
As well as its low overall purchase price the Tradie also boasts a low fuel consumption of 8.1L/100km on the combined ADR cycle ensuring the fuel pump price shock is kept to a minimum.
The Sports Dual Cab Tradie also features cloth trim and a no nonsense character while a strong 750kg payload and a standard tray liner making it the ideal business partner for tradesman as well as in mining, construction, forestry or on the farm.
The Tradie will also be available as a 4×4 manual priced at just $27,990, well below the price of many other diesel 4×4 dual cabs on the market.

According to SsangYong Motors Australasia managing director, Russell Burling, the Sports Dual Cab Tradie answers a strong demand from tradesmen, fleet operators and farmers seeking an economical diesel twin cab that doesn’t compromise on safety or performance.
“Clearly there is a demand for a vehicle like this that has less of the creature comforts and a lower price for those seeking a more basic and less luxurious vehicle,” said Mr Burling.
“The Tradie proves that you don’t have to compromise comfort or safety in a basic dual cab ute for under $25,000,” he added.
With improved noise and vibration dampening of the engine and powertrain, the Sports Dual Cab runs much more quietly than other utes while its coil rear springs are unique amongst dual cab utes delivering a quieter and smoother ride without compromising load capacity.
The common rail diesel engine is highly efficient complying with Euro IV standards for low emissions and maximum power with a flat torque curve over the widest possible rpm range for better acceleration both when starting and passing.
The Tradie joins the two other model variants in the SsangYong Sports Dual Cab line up including the standard 4×2 and 4×4 and the range leading SPR 4×4.

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“The first Ute rolled off the Ford assembly line in 1934; it’s amazing to see how far that design has now come.

“The utility has always been an icon in Australian culture but now we’ve cranked up the power and enhanced driver comfort for the ultimate work horse.”

Powered by the high performance 4.0 litre turbo charged DOHC 24 valve in-line six, the F6 Ute produces a maximum 310kW of power at 5500 rpm and a maximum 565Nm of torque at 1950-5200 rpm.

The Pursuit and Super Pursuit receive the high-performance Boss 5.4 litre quad-cam 32 valve V8 and produce a maximum 315kW at 6500 rpm and a maximum 551Nm of torque at 4750 rpm.

In another first for FPV, owners will have the option of the performance TR6060 six-speed manual transmission, or the ZF six-speed high-torque automatic transmission with Sequential Sports Shift at no extra cost.

The range of FPV Utes feature a stylish rear wheel arch bulge and unique door scallops delivering a package suitable for both work site hierarchy and weekend driving.

A prominent feature of the new generation sports utilities are the FPV badges, located on the front grille and tailgate as well as centre stage on the soft tonneau.

The range is available in 10 exterior colours – Winter White, Vixen, Silhouette, Lightning Strike, Sensation, Ego, Breeze, Nitro, Octane and Dash, while the F6 Ute also features Steel.

F6 Ute

This performance sports utility boasts fuel consumption figures of 12.8L/100km in manual transmission and 13L/100km in automatic guise.

Matching the increased power is a premium FPV performance brake package, featuring 355×32mm front rotors with Brembo four-piston calipers and 328×26mm rear rotors with a single red piston caliper.

In reaching the new performance figures, the engine features re-designed inlet and exhaust systems, a strengthened piston and conrod assembly and totally re-calibrated engine to maximise response and driveability.

From the front the F6 Ute is powerful and imposing; distinguished by its dark headlight accents and titanium mesh grille.

The grille on the lower air intake has been removed, making the mechanicals of the larger intercooler visible and an integral part of the F6’s tough exterior presence.

Unique F6 310 badges are positioned on the side and tailgate of the vehicle.

The new graphite headlight accents are matched to the 19-inch machine faced alloy wheels with Graphite accents, and an optional F6 Graphite wheel is available.

The F6 Ute features F6 logo embroidered sports seats in Shadow cloth with suede-feel bolsters and silver stitching. Shadow Leather sports seats are an option.

The F6 Ute receives a soft tonneau as standard, while the hard tonneau and spoiler are an option.

The cabin is packed with features to ensure a premium driving experience, including a sports leather steering wheel with cruise control and audio mounted switches, dual zone temperature control air conditioning, power windows and alloy pedal covers.

V8 Boss 315

The Boss 315 has been completely re-calibrated to maximise response and driveability, and an improvement in volumetric efficiency allows the engine to breathe better.

Importantly, the increased power does not compromise on fuel economy and in automatic guise; the FPV Pursuit and Super Pursuit boast fuel economy figures of 14.4L/100km.

Pursuit

FPV says the Pursuit is the ultimate sports coupe, with outstanding performance and drivability; performance engineering has transformed this practical workhorse.

Matching the increased power is a premium FPV performance brake package, featuring 355×32mm front rotors with Brembo four-piston calipers and 328×26mm rear rotors with single red piston caliper.

The bold styling of the new Pursuit is highlighted by the unique front grille treatment, side striping and V8 bonnet bulge accented with the newly designed hood decal.

The side scallop of the new FG Falcon lent itself to the placement of the trademark GT stripes, and the new stripe graphics sit neatly along the lower sides. The new-look Boss 315 badging will feature on the Pursuit’s power bulge and engine cover.

Unique Pursuit badging appears on the tailgate.

A soft tonneau is standard on this sports utility, while a hard tonneau with spoiler is available.

Super Pursuit

FPV says the ultimate sports utility, the Super Pursuit is packed with unrivalled performance matched by exquisite interior and exterior styling.

Matching the increased power is a premium FPV performance brake package, the Super Pursuit features 355 x 32mm front rotors with Brembo six-piston calipers, and 328 x 26mm rear rotors with single red piston caliper.

Never to be mistaken, the Super Pursuit features new unique, high-impact badging on the tailgate, while the bold styling is highlighted by the unique front grille treatment, side striping and V8 bonnet bulge accented with the newly designed hood decal.

The new Dark or Mid Argent headlight accents are matched to the 19-inch machine faced alloy wheels with Dark Argent accents.

The performance Super Pursuit is equipped with a ‘power bulge’ hard tonneau and spoiler as standard.

Inside the cabin, the Super Pursuit features Super Pursuit logo embroidered sports seats in Shadow cloth with suede-feel bolsters and silver stitching. Shadow Leather sports seats are available at no extra cost.

The cabin is bursting with features to ensure a premium driving experience, including sports leather steering wheel with cruise control and audio mounted switches, new unique FPV starter button, and dual zone temperature control, power windows and alloy pedal cover.

Safety

The sports utilities feature Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), driver and passenger airbags, side head/thorax air bags mounted on the driver and passenger seats and Beltminder technology for the driver.

The sports utility range is protected by a remote alarm and FPV’s ID Datadot identification.

The recommended retail price for each model is:

F6 Ute: RRP $57,990

Pursuit: RRP $57,990

Super Pursuit: RRP $62,990

Models will go on sale nationally in June 2008.

By DAVID TWOMEY

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“Newer, not softer” is what Toyota says about the new 70 Series Landcruiser. Look at it from most angles and it doesn’t look all that different to the 70 Series ‘cruiser your uncle owned 10 years ago. Apparently owners of the previous 70 Series iterations don’t want to see change and think their trusty stump puller looks good enough, and does the job.

Subtle exterior styling changes, along with an all new engine and CD player (with MP3 compatibility) headline the 70 Series changes. Replacing the six-cylinder diesel engine is Toyota’s all new 4.5-litre turbocharged V8 diesel motor. Producing 151kW and a mega 430Nm of torque (from just 1200RPM), the new 70 Series is has about 23% more power than its predecessor and around 13% more torque.

Step inside the cabin and previous 70 Series owners will witness a familiar site. A steering wheel and two gear levers is about all you need to traverse the Australian bush – and that’s pretty much all you get with the 70 Series ‘cruiser. A CD player (with MP3 compatibility) powers two speakers which produce an absolutely abysmal note.

The test vehicle was fitted with optional air-conditioning and a bulbar. The air conditioning begins blowing cold air in a matter of 1.5-seconds – literally! During testing on a very hot day, the air conditioning pumped out cool air all day long, despite the immense external heat.

The seats are very comfortable and offer enough side support to stop you from moving around – a bonus in a car that handles much like a small seaworthy vessel. Storage room behind the seats is very limited and doesn’t compare to the likes of other commercial utes in its segment.

Sink the boot in any gear and the turbocharged V8 begins pulling relentlessly. Each gear provides effortless torque, and with a springy and fluid clutch, driving this monster is an easy task. A 5-speed manual transmission controls the shifts, though it felt like it could have easily done with a sixth gear for highway driving.

Joined by three motorbikes, we hit the bush to see if the 70 Series Landcruiser could handle the rough terrain we planned on throwing at it. After engaging 4H (four-wheel-drive high) the ‘cruiser climbed a devilishly steep incline in second gear with no dramas. Steeper terrain was tackled with 4L (four-wheel-drive low) with the gearbox in low range. Automatically locking hubs are a non-feature, so jumping out and manually locking the hubs is a must when becoming seriously stuck.
It performed extremely well off-road and didn’t feel limited by any terrain thrown at it – even the hairiest of rock climbs.

There are three 70 Series divisions – the Cab Chassis, Troop Carrier and the Wagon. The Cab Chassis range includes the Workmate, GX and GXL (being test driven), priced at $53,990, $55,990 and $56,990 respectively. The Troop Carrier range includes the Workmate and GXL, priced at $59,390 and $61,990 respectively. Finally, the Wagon range includes the Workmate and GXL, priced at $54,990 and $57,990 respectively.

The test vehicle measured a fuel consumption of 11.9-litres/100km, just outside the official figure.

Priced from $50k+, the new 70 Series Landcruiser doesn’t come cheap when you consider the lack of features. But, if you take into consideration the fact that this thing will never break down and the fact that it can easily tow 3500kg, along with 1500kg in the tray, it makes perfect sense for the rugged bushman who thinks looks come second to ability.

CarAdvice overall rating:

How does it drive:

How does it look:

How does it go:

2008 Toyota Landcruiser 70-series Cab Chassis GXL Specifications

Engine: 4.5-litre
Power: 151kW
Torque: 430Nm
Top speed: N/A
Safety: Front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters.
0-100km/h: N/A
EuroNCAP rating: N/A
Turning circle: 14.4m
Fuel tank: 180 litres
Fuel consumption : 11.5-litres/100km
Fuel type: Diesel

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What do they get for their money? Uniqueness. SsangYong follows its own path. Its truck-building heritage shows up in separate chassis underlying all its models and in styling its philosophy seems to follow Oscar Wilde’s dictum that be that the only worse thing than being talked about is not being talked about. Better for an upstart maker to be noticed and reviled than blend into the background.

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