The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across the red dirt track as I guide the prototype Ford Ranger through a particularly gnarly section of the Victorian High Country. The marketing rep in the passenger seat winces slightly as we navigate a steep rocky descent, the vehicle’s off-road systems working overtime to maintain traction. “Just wait until you see what’s coming next year,” he tells me with a knowing smile, carefully avoiding specifics but hinting at something special in the pipeline.
Also Read:- Lexus RX450h+ Plug-in Hybrid Lands in Australia – Price Out
This scene has played out repeatedly over recent months as I’ve spoken with industry insiders, attended embargoed preview events, and pieced together the puzzle of what’s coming to Australia’s 4WD market in 2024 and 2025. After decades covering the Australian 4WD scene, I can confidently say we’re entering one of the most exciting periods for off-road enthusiasts in years, with a wave of new models poised to hit our shores.
From electrified icons to revamped classics and entirely new contenders, the next 18 months promise to reshape the landscape of what Australians drive on their outback adventures. Let’s explore the most significant new arrivals that have been confirmed for our market.
The Electric Revolution Hits the Off-Road World
For years, electric vehicles and serious off-roading seemed mutually exclusive in Australia. Range anxiety, charging infrastructure limitations in remote areas, and concerns about durability have kept many 4WD enthusiasts firmly in the internal combustion camp. That paradigm is about to shift dramatically with several purpose-built electric off-roaders making their Australian debut.
Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster Electric
Perhaps the most intriguing arrival is the electric version of the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster. After successfully launching the diesel-powered Grenadier in Australia to significant acclaim, Ineos has confirmed their dual-cab ute variant will receive an all-electric powertrain option by late 2024.
During a recent industry event in Sydney, Ineos Australia’s operations director Mark Peterson shared some insights: “The electric Quartermaster retains everything people love about the Grenadier – the rugged capability, the purposeful design, the uncompromising approach to off-road performance – but adds an electric drivetrain that delivers instant torque at zero RPM, which is actually ideal for technical off-road situations.”
What makes the electric Quartermaster particularly interesting is the company’s pragmatic approach. Rather than making outlandish claims about revolutionizing off-roading, Ineos has focused on making an electric 4WD that meets the real needs of Australian users. This includes a target range of over 400km, fast-charging capability, and critically, a cooling system designed specifically for Australian conditions.
Based on early specifications, expect dual motors delivering approximately 300kW combined, a wading depth matching the diesel version (800mm), and a unique regenerative braking system calibrated specifically for off-road descents. Pricing remains unconfirmed but expect a premium of around $15,000-$20,000 over the equivalent diesel model.
Ford F-150 Lightning
After years of anticipation, the Ford F-150 Lightning is finally confirmed for Australian shores, with right-hand drive conversion to be handled locally by approved remanufacturers. The all-electric version of America’s best-selling truck brings impressive credentials to our market, including up to 580km of range (extended battery), 420kW of power, and a massive 5-ton towing capacity.
What’s particularly appealing for Australian off-road enthusiasts is the Lightning’s ground clearance (over 200mm) and the protective shielding for the battery pack, designed specifically to withstand off-road punishment. The Lightning also features a dedicated off-road mode that adjusts the power delivery and traction control systems for rough terrain.
During a conversation at the recent Brisbane 4WD Show, Ford Australia representative Sarah Mitchell highlighted the vehicle’s unique advantages for remote travel: “The Lightning has an onboard power system that effectively turns your truck into a mobile power station. Imagine being able to run your campsite, power tools, or even charge another EV from your vehicle while in the bush.”
Early examples are expected to arrive in late 2024, with wider availability in 2025. Pricing will start around $120,000, positioning it against high-end conventional 4WD utes.
Revived Icons and Next-Generation Classics
While electric newcomers capture headlines, several iconic 4WD nameplates are receiving significant updates or complete reinventions for the Australian market.
Toyota LandCruiser Prado
The fifth-generation Prado represents the most comprehensive redesign of Toyota’s mid-size 4WD in over a decade. Set to arrive in Australian dealerships in mid-2024, the new Prado adopts the TNGA-F platform shared with the 300 Series LandCruiser, promising improvements in both on-road refinement and off-road capability.
I recently had the opportunity to examine a pre-production model at Toyota Australia’s headquarters in Melbourne. The dimensional changes are significant – it’s 95mm longer, 60mm wider, and sits on a wheelbase extended by 60mm, creating noticeably more interior space without compromising maneuverability.
“We’ve focused on enhancing the dual-personality of the Prado,” explained David Johnson, Toyota Australia’s product planning manager. “It needs to serve as a comfortable family vehicle for school runs and urban life, while maintaining true off-road credentials for weekend adventures. The new platform allows us to do both better than ever before.”
Powertrains for Australia are confirmed to include an updated version of the 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder, now producing 204kW and 700Nm, paired with a new 8-speed automatic. More interestingly, Australia will also receive the hybrid option combining a 2.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors for a combined output of 240kW, though this variant will arrive a few months after the diesel.
Off-road specifications are impressive, with 220mm ground clearance, 30-degree approach and 25-degree departure angles, and enhanced wading capability of 700mm. The Multi-Terrain Select system has been upgraded with additional modes specifically calibrated for Australian conditions.
Pricing is expected to start around $75,000 and extend past $90,000 for the top-spec Kakadu models.
Land Rover Defender 130 V8
While the new-generation Defender has been available in Australia for several years, 2024 brings the ultimate expression of Land Rover’s flagship 4WD: the extended-wheelbase 130 model with the supercharged V8 powertrain.
Limited to just 500 units globally, with approximately 25 expected for Australia, the Defender 130 V8 combines the practicality of eight-seat capacity with the performance of a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 producing 386kW. Having briefly sampled the powertrain in the shorter 90 and 110 models, I can attest that the combination of this engine with the Defender’s sophisticated terrain response system creates a unique proposition in the market – a genuine luxury 4WD with both the refinement and brutal capability to tackle Australia’s harshest environments.
The 130’s extended length (5.36 meters) means some compromise in off-road geometry compared to its shorter siblings, but additional technology compensates, including an enhanced electronic active differential and revised air suspension specifically tuned for the longer wheelbase.
Australian deliveries are expected in Q3 2024, with pricing around $240,000, positioning it as one of the most exclusive 4WDs available.
Rugged Newcomers Entering the Fray
Beyond established nameplates, several entirely new models are preparing to enter Australia’s competitive 4WD market, bringing fresh approaches to off-road capability.
GWM Tank 500
Chinese manufacturer GWM has been steadily building its reputation in Australia, and the Tank 500 represents its most ambitious 4WD yet. Set to arrive in early 2025, this full-size 4WD adopts a traditional body-on-frame construction with modern technology and impressive specifications.
During a recent media preview in Sydney, I had the opportunity to examine the Tank 500 up close. The size is comparable to the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, but with styling that blends American truck influences with distinctive Chinese design elements. The interior is particularly noteworthy, featuring high-quality materials and technology that would not look out of place in luxury European SUVs.
“We’ve designed the Tank 500 specifically to meet the expectations of markets like Australia,” noted Li Wei, GWM’s international product director. “It combines genuine off-road capability with the comfort and technology that modern buyers expect, at a price point that challenges established players.”
Technical specifications include a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid powertrain producing a combined 390kW, permanent four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, front and rear locking differentials, and disconnecting anti-roll bars for improved articulation in challenging terrain.
Expected pricing around $85,000-$95,000 positions it against mid-spec LandCruiser and Patrol variants, potentially offering significant value if the build quality and reliability meet Australian expectations.
Volkswagen Amarok PanAmericana
The second-generation Amarok, developed in partnership with Ford, has already made a positive impression in Australia. For the 2025 model year, Volkswagen has confirmed the arrival of the off-road focused PanAmericana variant, featuring significant upgrades for serious off-road use.
During a recent conversation with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia director Ryan Davies, I learned that the PanAmericana has been specifically configured with Australian conditions in mind: “We’ve worked closely with our German colleagues to ensure this vehicle meets the unique demands of Australian off-road enthusiasts. This isn’t just an appearance package—it’s a comprehensively engineered upgrade for genuine off-road capability.”
The enhancements include bespoke Bilstein shock absorbers with increased travel, underbody protection packs, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, rock sliders, and a snorkel intake system. The PanAmericana retains the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine from the standard Amarok but receives a recalibrated transmission with revised shift patterns optimized for off-road use.
Limited to 500 units for the Australian market, the PanAmericana is expected to be priced around $85,000 when it arrives in mid-2025.
Factory Upgrades to Established Favorites
Beyond all-new models, several established players in the Australian 4WD market are receiving significant upgrades or special editions that warrant attention.
Toyota HiLux GOAT Edition
After years of watching the Ford Ranger Raptor dominate the high-performance 4WD ute segment, Toyota is finally responding with a factory-enhanced version of the HiLux. Internally referenced as the “GOAT Edition” (Greatest Of All Terrain), this model represents the most comprehensively upgraded HiLux ever offered through Toyota dealers.
Based on information from Toyota insiders, the enhancements include wider tracks with extended wheel arches, long-travel Fox Racing suspension, additional chassis bracing, and a power upgrade for the 2.8-liter turbodiesel to approximately 170kW and 600Nm.
“We’ve been testing prototypes in central Australia for over a year,” revealed a Toyota engineer who requested anonymity. “The focus has been on creating a vehicle that excels in high-speed off-road conditions while maintaining the legendary reliability that defines HiLux.”
Expected to arrive in late 2024 with pricing around $80,000, the GOAT Edition will directly challenge the Ranger Raptor while offering Toyota’s reputation for durability.
An Exciting Time for Australian 4WD Enthusiasts
As this preview of upcoming models demonstrates, the next 18 months represent a particularly exciting period for Australian 4WD buyers. The market is diversifying with electric options, new players from China, and established manufacturers pushing boundaries with specialized models.
What’s particularly notable is how many of these vehicles have been developed with specific consideration for Australian conditions and user requirements. Manufacturers clearly recognize the unique demands of our market and are tailoring their offerings accordingly.
For buyers, this means more choice than ever before across different price points and use cases. Whether you’re looking for a traditional diesel workhorse, a high-tech hybrid with off-road credentials, or an electric adventure vehicle, the 2024-2025 period offers compelling options.
The Australian 4WD landscape has never been more diverse or more capable—good news for anyone planning their next outback adventure or simply wanting the security and capability of four-wheel drive for family transportation. The challenge for buyers won’t be finding a capable vehicle; it will be choosing from the impressive array of options soon to be available.
Also Read:- Geely’s Luxury Electric Van Set to Hit Australia