2021 sees new dual-cab ute special editions and facelifts vie for attention. Here are five top picks for utes to buy around $50,000.

There are plenty of different utes on the market but here we’re looking at the top deals for tricked-up dual-cab utes on the market for between $50-60K. This eliminates pure work dogs like 4×4 cab chassis (The new Ranger XLT cab-chassis is not yet listed) and more expensive options like Chevrolets, RAMs, Ford Ranger Wildtrak and Toyota Hilux Rugged.

But there’s still plenty of capable 4×4 ability and equipment stuffed into these hot deals. All prices are current manufacturer drive-away deals calculated to a Victorian postcode.

Nissan Navara ST-X

Price: $54,790 driveaway (ABN buyers)

Why it’s here: Brand new facelift for MY21, upgraded safety tech, interior updates, 1200kg payload, driveaway pricing

Nissan has just renewed the current D23 Navara which we review here. A new lineup that does away with some base grades in favour of upper-spec priorities, it is a good choice for those who want both something capable off-road and ready to lug a load, plus it is fitted with good safety technology. About the only thing missing is adaptive cruise control though it has AEB, lane departure warning with keeping assist and lots more. The new infotainment is nice and the facelift brings plenty of stylish update echoing the big US-spec Titan pickup truck.

Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

Price: $59,990 driveaway

Why it’s here: 6 year warranty, excellent interior, excellent safety credentials, smooth drivetrain

Kicking off preceding is the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, which we’ve reviewed. It scores well based on its high level of equipment and safety technology, capable off-road drivetrain, and reliable, smooth 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel with a well-matched six-speed auto. This is also the absolute top of the range model with the blacked-out alloys, bars and other parts that look quite sharp in appearance. And at this price, we can’t complain that Isuzu pricing has gone upmarket, even if the car has.

Mitsubishi Triton GSR

Price: $57,240 driveaway

Why it’s here: 7 year warranty, 3 years free servicing, excellent four-wheel drive system, sharp presentation inside and out

Like the X-Terrain the Triton GSR offers the top range model at under $60k. In this instance, the Triton also has a five-star ANCAP rating, though it doesn’t have the same level of safety technology found in the Isuzu. It does have a competent 2.4-litre turbo diesel engine and the Super Select II 4×4 system with centre and rear diff locks is one of the best in the segment.

Volkswagen Amarok V6 Core Enduro

Price: $50,990 driveaway

Why it’s here: Powerful V6 with heaps of grunt, nice interior layout, full-time four-wheel drive, sharp driveaway price

Sure, it’s the oldest model here, but VW’s Amarok was ahead of its time when it launched with passenger car comforts in the cabin and sharp handling. This was bolstered by it being the only V6 diesel turbo available, at least until the short-lived Mercedes-Benz X-Class had its dash. The V6 provides 165kW (180kW on overboost) and 550Nm through an auto for a 3500kg towing capacity. The Enduro has further equipment flourishes such as 17-inch Posadas alloys, rubber floor in the cabin, bi-xenon headlights, and special decals.

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Practical Motoring

The team of journalists at Practical Motoring bring decades of automotive and machinery industry experience. From car and motorbike journalists to mechanical expertise, we like to use tools of the trade both behind the computer and in the workshop.

9 comments

  1. Are you guys serious? Not brimming with action?
    Have you tried to buy a Ute and get delivery before Christmas?
    it would be nice to investigate the real world that I deal with every days across all brands

      1. But the Isuzu is miles ahead of the rest in safety gear, equipment level….and just perhaps reliability. Better warranty too. Saving up for one. Get there soon….and I can wait.

  2. Not brimming with action?
    Have you tried to buy a Ute and get delivery before Christmas?
    it would be nice to investigate the real world that I deal with every days across all brands

      1. We need to wait for almost everything now. Quality SUV’s are mostly sold out. LDV’s and GWM’s maybe have shorter waiting lists – for some odd reason.

  3. The Navara updates look really good, I guess it should be almost the same off-road so it’s a known quantitiy (even the PRO-4X). Finally driveaway pricing too.

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