Off Road / 4x4

Mitsubishi is readying a facelift for the Pajero Sport, with a full reveal locked in for July 25. The current model launched in 2015, and is one of the strongest-selling ute-based SUVs on the market. It trails the best-selling Isuzu MU-X by just 500 sales year-to-date, and has comfortably outsold the Ford Everest, Toyota Fortuner and Holden Trailblazer.

Details about the drivetrains, dimensions and features of the Land Rover Defender have been leaked ahead of its launch later this year. A user on the Disco4.com forum has posted smartphone photos taken of slides outlining the new Defender's key details. Due to be launched October this year, the first cab off the rank will be the Defender 110. The five-door model will be 4758mm long, 1916mm tall, 1999mm wide, and ride on a 3022mm wheelbase.

Mercedes-Benz has announced three limited-edition versions of the iconic G-Class off-roader, all wearing Stronger Than Time nomenclature. The first edition celebrates 40 years of the standard G-Class, available in two engine variants – G400d and G500. It's the first time the company's new 3.0-litre inline six turbo-diesel has been available in the G-Class, making 243kW and 700Nm.

Ford has recalled a huge batch of 2016-18 Rangers, over concerns about about their flexible front brake hoses. According to the company, come vehicles might be fitted with a flexible brake hose prone to failure when it's twisted during installation. If twisted, the inner and outer hose layers could wear over bumps requiring a lot of suspension travel. A warning light illuminates in the instrument binnacle when the problem occurs.

Mitsubishi has announced the Pajero Final Edition for the Japanese market, limited to just 700 units. UPDATE, 29/4/19: Mitsubishi Australia has issued a statement regarding the Pajero's future in our market. See bottom of article for details The large off-roader will end a 37-year stint in its homeland when it's discontinued in August, though certain export markets like Australia will continue to get the long-running nameplate.