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2021 Ute guide

Here's a round-up of the 2021 ute market, with a revised HiLux, an updated Ranger, an all-new D-Max and a brand-new BT-50.

Ford, ToyFord, Toyota, Isuzu and Mazda have all updated the specs and pricing on their utes recently to varying degrees. With the $150k instant tax asset write-off running right up to 31 December 2020, now's a great time to think about buying your business a new ute.

Here's a rundown of the most popular ute models.

Popular Ute Comparison

ModelFinder scorePayloadSafety rating (ANCAP)Click price for repayments or find a deal
Toyota HiLux79.67%995 kg5 starsFrom $23,590

on OnlineAuto.com.au's website

Ford Ranger85%945 kg5 starsFrom $29,190

on OnlineAuto.com.au's website

Isuzu D-Max73.25%924 kg5 starsFrom $32,200

on OnlineAuto.com.au's website

Mazda BT-5078.8%1,039 kg5 starsFrom $25,570

on OnlineAuto.com.au's website

Prices are for NSW postcode 2000.

Toyota HiLux 2021

Toyota HiLux 2021 ute

Let's start with the legendary Toyota HiLux. On 13 August, Toyota confirmed the specs for the 2021 ute, and it is now reportedly more Australian than at any other point in its life. Changes are a response to feedback from customers.

What's new on the 2021 Toyota HiLux?

The HiLux has been turned up to 11 it seems. Max power now touches 150kW (an extra 20kW) on some models, while peak torque on automatics rises to 500Nm (from around 450Nm). Manuals are good for 420Nm, across a wider range of 1,400-3,400rpm. Fuel use has also dropped by as much as 11.1%, depending on the configuration. Braked towing jumps up to 3,500kg for every 4x4 HiLux and some 4x2 diesels will lug 2,800kg. There are 27 models capable of hauling a one-tonne payload.

The exterior has been retooled, with a "tougher" looking body. There are reshaped headlights and a very wide trapezoid-shaped grille, which is reminiscent of Toyota's North-American market pick-ups.

In the cab, all HiLux models now have a large eight-inch infotainment display, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There's also a 4.2-inch multi-information display between the instrument dials. SR5 models have sat-nav and DAB as standard.

4x4 models with downhill-assist control fitted get a fancy traction control mode when in 2WD, which improves grip on slick mud and wet grass.

Toyota HiLux options
  • SR double-cab – satellite navigation, DAB radio and 17-inch alloy wheels pack: $800
  • 4x4 SR5 double-cabs – leather-accented seats, door trim and heated front seats (with eight-way power adjustment for driver and four-way manual movement for passenger): $2,500

Engineering and design group specialists at Toyota Australia were given the task of working alongside international teams to refine the engine, styling and handling.

A Toyota high-up, Rod Ferguson, stated that he thought if the HiLux somehow became sentient, it would speak with a "strong Aussie accent". For example, the final clay model was created in Australia before being transported to Japan for evaluation.

2021 Toyota HiLux on a hillside

The Australian-arm of Toyota specifically worked on the following:

  • Development and testing of a more gutsy 2.8-litre diesel engine, boosting the response for quicker accelerating and more confident towing as well as upping the torque figures
  • Producing a clay model with a more chiselled appearance and meshes with the global Toyota branding
  • Contributing to tweaks on the rear suspension, with particular focus on how the HiLux handles when unladen. This is thanks to new bushes and an altered leaf-spring design, plus shock absorber tuning
  • Recalibrating the six-speed gearbox to gain momentum faster and manage the temps while towing
  • Integrating a variable-flow steering pump, which in turn improves the steering sensation and makes low-speed parking less strenuous
  • Testing in harsh environments

Toyota HiLux pricing for 2021

Toyota HiLux 2021 summary

It's more powerful, more chiselled and more Aussie than ever. The HiLux is in fine form.

Ford Ranger 2021

Ford Ranger XLS Special Edition 4x4

Ford updated the specs and pricing on the Ford Ranger in August 2020. Ford has made the Ranger tougher, with Heavy-Duty optional packs on offer as well as Special Editions that come fully off-road prepared.

As part of Ford's "Tougher Done Smarter" philosophy, the brand is working to give tradies and professionals the equipment they need to get to their work, wherever that may be.

Those wanting to spec out their Ranger for off-road and harsh environment use will want to go for XL 4x4 models as Ford's making a number of off-road equipment optionally available.

Ford Ranger options
  • Spray-on, rugged, no-slip bed-liner application (with a five-year, unlimited KM warranty!) for XL/XLS double pick-ups: $800
  • 17-inch Continental A/T (all-terrain) tyres: $500
  • Heavy-duty suspension: $500
  • Prestige paint: $650
  • XLS, 17-inch, black alloys: $750
  • Spray-on, rugged, no-slip bed-liner application (with a five-year, unlimited KM warranty!) for Sport/XLT double pick-ups: $300
  • XLT partial leather seats: $1,500
  • XLT, 18-inch black alloys: $750
Ford Ranger Heavy Duty Pack
For the single cab-chassis Ford Ranger XL 4x4, Heavy-Duty Pack, Ford charges $1,600. The HD pack comes with the following:
  • Heavy-duty suspension
  • 17-inch black steel wheels
  • Continental A/T (all-terrain) tyres
  • Solid wheel nuts
  • Rear camera accessory
On the Super Cab and Double Cab chassis XLs, in addition to the above, you also receive black side steps. Ford asks $2,000 for this iteration of the HD pack.
Double Cab pick-up buyers pay $1,600 for the Heavy-Duty pack. This model also has black side steps in addition to the single-cab specification.
Ford Ranger XLS Premium Pack
The XLS Premium Pack costs $1,500 and includes the following:
  • Chrome exterior trim, like the grille and door handles
  • SYNC 3, with sat-nav
  • DAB+ radio
  • Dual-zone A/C
  • Smart keyless entry and push-button ignition
  • Twin 4.2-inch instrument gauges

Ford Ranger XLT Tech Pack

For $800, the XLT Tech Pack adds the following:
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Semi-automatic park assist

Another nice addition is the FordPass App modem. You can find the application on the App Store or on Google Play. With this standard feature, Ranger owners can do the following:

  • Remotely lock and unlock the doors (useful if you've sent the apprentice to fetch something from your ute)
  • It's also possible to remotely start the engine, letting you pre-warm or cool the interior (activates the last used climate control setting)
  • Receive health updates from the vehicle, like upcoming servicing and low washer fluid levels
  • Check the fuel level and remaining range
  • Vehicle locator – view your Ranger's whereabouts

Ford Ranger special editions

Ford Ranger XL 4x4 Special Edition

Having a drive-away price of $49,990, the Ford Ranger XL 4x4 Special Edition has a heap of off-road equipment extras fitted from the factory. Ford bolts on the following:

  • A Ford steel bull bar, with mounts for accessories like a radio antenna. Below the main frame of the additional protection, Ford has neatly installed an LED light bar. This high-output extra lamp will flood campsites at night or gloomy building sites with bright white light. The company also points out that this accessory has been crash tested to ensure it'll work correctly with the standard safety assists like autonomous emergency braking.
  • A factory snorkel. A raised intake isn't just for deep-water wading, it also helps the engine draw in cleaner air, as it's away from the dust cloud kicked up by the wheels and surrounding vehicles.

Other Ford Ranger changes for 2021 models

Ford Ranger XLS

Buyers of the Ranger XLS now have further options to personalise their ute. Ford is now offering the following:

  • Black-finish, 17-inch alloy wheels (one inch larger than standard)

Ford Ranger XLT Fully Loaded

The Fully Loaded XLT, as its name suggests, is generously equipped. It builds upon XLT spec by adding the following:

  • 18-inch, gloss black alloy wheels
  • Adaptive cruise control (ACC)
  • Partial leather seat upholstery
  • Semi-automatic parallel parking

Ford Ranger pricing for 2021

Ford Ranger business pricing

Ford is offering up to three years of free scheduled servicing on select Ranger models. Business buyers can also take advantage of ABN holder special drive-away prices.

Ford Ranger 2021 summary

In summary, the 2021 Ranger gets more tech, but the prices have risen accordingly. There are factory-assembled heavy-duty versions available for business users who need a tough and rugged ute. The XLT Fully Loaded should save buyers $1,500 compared to buying the options fitted separately.

Isuzu D-Max 2021

The D-Max is all new and word on the street is that it might have leapfrogged some of its rivals, maybe even taking the best overall ute crown outright. For 2021, the D-Max has been completely re-designed. It's now got a mature, more modern look, a re-tooled 3.0-litre turbo diesel heart, a remodelled cab interior and previously unheard-of levels of equipment. Isuzu reports they clocked four million testing kilometres over six years on this model.

What's new on the 2021 Isuzu D-Max?

For the D-Max, Isuzu has built in an intelligent driver assistance system (IDAS), Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto, a rear electro-magnetic diff locker, bumped the wading depth up to 800mm (from 600mm) and given it a revised terrain command system. The latest iteration of the Isuzu diesel engine now has 140kW and 450Nm, an improvement of 10kw and 20Nm over its predecessor. It runs quieter, with improved efficiency and better dampens sound and vibration. Plus, you can tap into the peak torque over a more useable rev range than before. Added to the refined engine is one of two new transmissions, a six-speed auto or manual, both tweaked for slicker shifting and higher efficiency.

Pretty much every metric is better than before. The D-Max now rides taller, with increased ground clearance and tighter off-roading angles.

Standard D-Max specs

The standard spec list for the all-new D-Max models is epic.

For a start, you get a diff locker on 4x4 models, which is not a standard inclusion on many rivals (or even available from some ute builders), tilt and reach adjustment for the steering wheel (again missing on some competitors), deluxe seat contouring on space and crew cabs, a 4.2-inch multi-information display housed in the instrument cluster, rear vents on crew cabs, Android Auto/wireless Apple CarPlay, DAB+ radio, voice recognition, auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and body colour bumpers on utes.

The default safety inclusions are extensive in the ute segment. You'll get the following:

  • Eight airbags (including a centre airbag)
  • Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
  • Forward collision warning
  • Lane departure prevention and warning
  • Lane keep assist (on automatic models)
  • Emergency lane keeping
  • Turn assist with AEB
  • Emergency stop signals
  • Post-collision brake assist
  • Misacceleration mitigation (automatic models)
  • Adaptive cruise control (autos only)
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Intelligent speed limiter
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Driver attention assist
  • Automatic high beam
  • Coming home light
  • Intelligent seat belt reminder for all seats
  • Utes and cab chassis models get a reversing camera
  • 2 x ISOFIX points for crew cabs

This is a level of safety tech that is effectively unmatched right now, especially as a base level of equipment.

Isuzu D-Max options

There are a number of genuine accessories for the D-Max.

Isuzu D-Max accessories
  • Polished alloy bull bar: $3,400
  • Satin black steel bull bar: $2,999
  • Polished alloy nudge bar: $1,100
  • Tinted bonnet protector: $199
  • Headlight protectors: $173.80
  • Snorkel: $1,190
  • Front standard window weather shields: $270
  • Front and rear slim window weather shields: $270
  • Double grab rail for tray: $253
  • General-purpose alloy tray step: $118.80
  • Slide-out step: $370.70
  • Fire extinguisher holder - Large: $239.80 Small: $229.90
  • Stylish side steps: $699
  • Alloy scuff plates: $180
  • Under rail tub-liner for crew cab utes (not X-Terrain): $670
  • Over rail tub-liner: $670
  • Welded wire mesh window protector: $193.60
  • Steel meshed window protector: $217.80
  • Headboard wheel hanger: $152.90
  • Tail-light protector: $179.30
  • Headboard aerial mount: $140.80
  • Rubber tray mat: $199
  • One-piece, hard tonneau cover: $2,999
  • Three-piece, hard tonneau cover: $3,199
  • Soft tonneau cover: $700
  • Electronic brake controller (for highway or off-road braking settings): $820
  • Polished alloy sports bar: $1,290
  • Satin black ladder rack kit: $890
  • Polished alloy ladder rack kit: $890
  • Heavy-duty ladder rack: $496.10
  • General-purpose ladder rack: $410.30
  • Lockable undertray toolbox: $437.80
  • Undertray water tank: $360.80
  • Cargo net for tray: $106.70
  • Lift-up window canopy: $4,199
  • Sliding-style windowed canopy: $3,999
  • Weight distribution hitch: $899
  • Tow bar kit (for utes: $950 for cab chassis models: $950)
  • Tow bar wiring harness: $249 for 7-pin, $359 for 12-pin
  • Economy alloy tray: $2,123
  • General-purpose alloy tray: $2,281.40
  • Heavy-duty alloy tray: $2,406.80
  • Heavy-duty steel tray: $3,126.20
  • Roof bar set: $569
  • Roof rail cross bars: $539
  • Canvas seat covers front: $499.99
  • Canvas rear seat covers: $550
  • Front rubber cabin floor mats: $120
  • Rubber cabin floor mats: $190
  • Carpet cabin floor mats, front: $140
  • Carpet floor mats: $230

Isuzu D-Max pricing for 2021

2021 Isuzu D-Max Double cab pick-up

Isuzu D-Max 2021 summary

The D-Max, with its dashing new looks, gutsier engine, incredible specs and safety assists might just have hurtled passed the competition to become the most rounded and best value ute on sale in Australia.

Mazda BT-50 2021

Mazda BT-50 ute 2021

Mazda is putting a brand-new, third-generation BT-50 on sale here in October. It's the first major overhaul for the ute in nine years. The previous model was built upon the Ford T6 platform, the same as the Ranger. Mazda based the third-generation BT-50 around some of the Isuzu D-Max's underlying components. For example, they share engines.

What's new on the Mazda BT-50 2021?

First, its burly turbocharged, 3.0-litre diesel power plant, with a stout 140kW and 450Nm. Towing capacity jumps up to 3.5 tonnes, and it has a combined fuel economy best of 7.7L/100km. Payload capacity on some models reaches as high as 1,210kg! Wading depth also rises to 800mm, like the D-Max. 4x4 BT-50s get a diff locker, again, matching the D-Max.

The exterior design has been tweaked so the ute sits more in line with the rest of the Mazda range. Safety is described as "uncompromising", with a huge heap of safety assists, including the following:

  • LED headlights
  • 4.2-inch multi-information display for the driver
  • Auto headlights
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Auto high beam
  • Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
  • Curtain (front and rear), driver and front passenger, front side, far side driver and driver's knee airbags
  • Attention assist
  • Blind spot monitor (BSM)
  • Dynamic stability control (DSC)
  • Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
  • Brake assist (BA)
  • Emergency lane keeping (ELK) – overtaking
  • Emergency stop signal (ESS)
  • Forward collision warning (FCW)
  • Hill descent control (HDC)
  • Hill launch assist (HLA)
  • Intelligent speed limiter (ISL)
  • Lane departure prevention (LDP)
  • Lane departure warning (LDW)
  • Manual speed limiter (MSL)
  • Rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA)
  • Reversing camera
  • Secondary collision reduction
  • Traction control system (TCS)
  • Traffic sign recognition (TSR)
  • Trailer sway control (TSC)
  • Turn assist
  • Spare wheel
  • Daytime running lights
  • Underbody impact protection

Essentially, the BT-50 is setting a new baseline for safety equipment, along with its cousin, the D-Max.

Internally, as standard, the load out is impressive. From the factory, the BT-50 has the following:

  • Power windows (with one-touch for the driver)
  • A/C
  • Cruise control
  • Black cloth seating
  • Seven-inch colour infotainment touchscreen
  • AM/FM radio, plus DAB+
  • Android Auto (USB) and Apple CarPlay (wireless or USB)
  • Auxiliary input
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • At least four-speakers
  • Steering wheel mounted controls
  • USB input for iPods

Mazda BT-50 2021 ute specs

Mazda BT-50 2021 ute interior

Mazda BT-50 2021 pricing

Mazda BT-50 2021 accessories

We expect the factory accessories pricing list to be made public anytime soon, but Mazda has stated that each accessory falls within the scope of the five-year factory warranty.

Mazda BT-50 2021 verdict

The Mazda BT-50 is now perhaps the classiest looking ute (certainly the most car-like), with a very elegant and high-end exterior design combined with an elevated standard specification and oodles of safety aids.

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Finder Exclusive: Apply by November 30th 2023 and if approved, OurMoneyMarket will waive the establishment fee for Excellent Credit Customers.
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Stratton Finance New Car Loan
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You'll receive a fixed rate from 6.29% p.a. depending on the lender you are approved with.
Apply for up to $300,000 and use cash or trade in a vehicle to use as a deposit. Optional balloon payment available.
CarMoney Used Car Loan
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You'll receive a fixed rate from 7.29% p.a.
A larger loan of $5,000 or more to help you buy a new or used car. 5-hour pre approval available and no ongoing fees.
Great Southern Bank Fixed Rate Car Loan
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $100,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
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A secured loan with a high maximum borrowing amount up to $100,000. Redraw facility and no monthly fees.
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Stratton Finance Used Car Loan
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loans.com.au - Variable Rate Used Car < 5 years
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loans.com.au - Fixed Rate Used Car < 3 years
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Picture: Supplied
ota, Isuzu and Mazda have all updated the specs and pricing on their utes recently to varying degrees. With the $150k instant tax asset write-off running right up to 31 December 2020, now's a great time to think about buying your business a new ute.

Here's a rundown of the most popular ute models.

Popular Ute Comparison

ModelFinder scorePayloadSafety rating (ANCAP)Click price for repayments or find a deal
Toyota HiLux79.67%995 kg5 starsFrom $23,590
Ford Ranger85%945 kg5 starsFrom $29,190
Isuzu D-Max73.25%924 kg5 starsFrom $32,200
Mazda BT-5078.8%1,039 kg5 starsFrom $25,570

Prices are for NSW postcode 2000.

Toyota HiLux 2021

Toyota HiLux 2021 ute

Let's start with the legendary Toyota HiLux. On 13 August, Toyota confirmed the specs for the 2021 ute, and it is now reportedly more Australian than at any other point in its life. Changes are a response to feedback from customers.

What's new on the 2021 Toyota HiLux?

The HiLux has been turned up to 11 it seems. Max power now touches 150kW (an extra 20kW) on some models, while peak torque on automatics rises to 500Nm (from around 450Nm). Manuals are good for 420Nm, across a wider range of 1,400-3,400rpm. Fuel use has also dropped by as much as 11.1%, depending on the configuration. Braked towing jumps up to 3,500kg for every 4x4 HiLux and some 4x2 diesels will lug 2,800kg. There are 27 models capable of hauling a one-tonne payload.

The exterior has been retooled, with a "tougher" looking body. There are reshaped headlights and a very wide trapezoid-shaped grille, which is reminiscent of Toyota's North-American market pick-ups.

In the cab, all HiLux models now have a large eight-inch infotainment display, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There's also a 4.2-inch multi-information display between the instrument dials. SR5 models have sat-nav and DAB as standard.

4x4 models with downhill-assist control fitted get a fancy traction control mode when in 2WD, which improves grip on slick mud and wet grass.

Toyota HiLux options
  • SR double-cab – satellite navigation, DAB radio and 17-inch alloy wheels pack: $800
  • 4x4 SR5 double-cabs – leather-accented seats, door trim and heated front seats (with eight-way power adjustment for driver and four-way manual movement for passenger): $2,500

Engineering and design group specialists at Toyota Australia were given the task of working alongside international teams to refine the engine, styling and handling.

A Toyota high-up, Rod Ferguson, stated that he thought if the HiLux somehow became sentient, it would speak with a "strong Aussie accent". For example, the final clay model was created in Australia before being transported to Japan for evaluation.

2021 Toyota HiLux on a hillside

The Australian-arm of Toyota specifically worked on the following:

  • Development and testing of a more gutsy 2.8-litre diesel engine, boosting the response for quicker accelerating and more confident towing as well as upping the torque figures
  • Producing a clay model with a more chiselled appearance and meshes with the global Toyota branding
  • Contributing to tweaks on the rear suspension, with particular focus on how the HiLux handles when unladen. This is thanks to new bushes and an altered leaf-spring design, plus shock absorber tuning
  • Recalibrating the six-speed gearbox to gain momentum faster and manage the temps while towing
  • Integrating a variable-flow steering pump, which in turn improves the steering sensation and makes low-speed parking less strenuous
  • Testing in harsh environments

Toyota HiLux pricing for 2021

Toyota HiLux 2021 summary

It's more powerful, more chiselled and more Aussie than ever. The HiLux is in fine form.

Ford Ranger 2021

Ford Ranger XLS Special Edition 4x4

Ford updated the specs and pricing on the Ford Ranger in August 2020. Ford has made the Ranger tougher, with Heavy-Duty optional packs on offer as well as Special Editions that come fully off-road prepared.

As part of Ford's "Tougher Done Smarter" philosophy, the brand is working to give tradies and professionals the equipment they need to get to their work, wherever that may be.

Those wanting to spec out their Ranger for off-road and harsh environment use will want to go for XL 4x4 models as Ford's making a number of off-road equipment optionally available.

Ford Ranger options
  • Spray-on, rugged, no-slip bed-liner application (with a five-year, unlimited KM warranty!) for XL/XLS double pick-ups: $800
  • 17-inch Continental A/T (all-terrain) tyres: $500
  • Heavy-duty suspension: $500
  • Prestige paint: $650
  • XLS, 17-inch, black alloys: $750
  • Spray-on, rugged, no-slip bed-liner application (with a five-year, unlimited KM warranty!) for Sport/XLT double pick-ups: $300
  • XLT partial leather seats: $1,500
  • XLT, 18-inch black alloys: $750
Ford Ranger Heavy Duty Pack
For the single cab-chassis Ford Ranger XL 4x4, Heavy-Duty Pack, Ford charges $1,600. The HD pack comes with the following:
  • Heavy-duty suspension
  • 17-inch black steel wheels
  • Continental A/T (all-terrain) tyres
  • Solid wheel nuts
  • Rear camera accessory
On the Super Cab and Double Cab chassis XLs, in addition to the above, you also receive black side steps. Ford asks $2,000 for this iteration of the HD pack.
Double Cab pick-up buyers pay $1,600 for the Heavy-Duty pack. This model also has black side steps in addition to the single-cab specification.
Ford Ranger XLS Premium Pack
The XLS Premium Pack costs $1,500 and includes the following:
  • Chrome exterior trim, like the grille and door handles
  • SYNC 3, with sat-nav
  • DAB+ radio
  • Dual-zone A/C
  • Smart keyless entry and push-button ignition
  • Twin 4.2-inch instrument gauges

Ford Ranger XLT Tech Pack

For $800, the XLT Tech Pack adds the following:
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Semi-automatic park assist

Another nice addition is the FordPass App modem. You can find the application on the App Store or on Google Play. With this standard feature, Ranger owners can do the following:

  • Remotely lock and unlock the doors (useful if you've sent the apprentice to fetch something from your ute)
  • It's also possible to remotely start the engine, letting you pre-warm or cool the interior (activates the last used climate control setting)
  • Receive health updates from the vehicle, like upcoming servicing and low washer fluid levels
  • Check the fuel level and remaining range
  • Vehicle locator – view your Ranger's whereabouts

Ford Ranger special editions

Ford Ranger XL 4x4 Special Edition

Having a drive-away price of $49,990, the Ford Ranger XL 4x4 Special Edition has a heap of off-road equipment extras fitted from the factory. Ford bolts on the following:

  • A Ford steel bull bar, with mounts for accessories like a radio antenna. Below the main frame of the additional protection, Ford has neatly installed an LED light bar. This high-output extra lamp will flood campsites at night or gloomy building sites with bright white light. The company also points out that this accessory has been crash tested to ensure it'll work correctly with the standard safety assists like autonomous emergency braking.
  • A factory snorkel. A raised intake isn't just for deep-water wading, it also helps the engine draw in cleaner air, as it's away from the dust cloud kicked up by the wheels and surrounding vehicles.

Other Ford Ranger changes for 2021 models

Ford Ranger XLS

Buyers of the Ranger XLS now have further options to personalise their ute. Ford is now offering the following:

  • Black-finish, 17-inch alloy wheels (one inch larger than standard)

Ford Ranger XLT Fully Loaded

The Fully Loaded XLT, as its name suggests, is generously equipped. It builds upon XLT spec by adding the following:

  • 18-inch, gloss black alloy wheels
  • Adaptive cruise control (ACC)
  • Partial leather seat upholstery
  • Semi-automatic parallel parking

Ford Ranger pricing for 2021

Ford Ranger business pricing

Ford is offering up to three years of free scheduled servicing on select Ranger models. Business buyers can also take advantage of ABN holder special drive-away prices.

Ford Ranger 2021 summary

In summary, the 2021 Ranger gets more tech, but the prices have risen accordingly. There are factory-assembled heavy-duty versions available for business users who need a tough and rugged ute. The XLT Fully Loaded should save buyers $1,500 compared to buying the options fitted separately.

Isuzu D-Max 2021

The D-Max is all new and word on the street is that it might have leapfrogged some of its rivals, maybe even taking the best overall ute crown outright. For 2021, the D-Max has been completely re-designed. It's now got a mature, more modern look, a re-tooled 3.0-litre turbo diesel heart, a remodelled cab interior and previously unheard-of levels of equipment. Isuzu reports they clocked four million testing kilometres over six years on this model.

What's new on the 2021 Isuzu D-Max?

For the D-Max, Isuzu has built in an intelligent driver assistance system (IDAS), Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto, a rear electro-magnetic diff locker, bumped the wading depth up to 800mm (from 600mm) and given it a revised terrain command system. The latest iteration of the Isuzu diesel engine now has 140kW and 450Nm, an improvement of 10kw and 20Nm over its predecessor. It runs quieter, with improved efficiency and better dampens sound and vibration. Plus, you can tap into the peak torque over a more useable rev range than before. Added to the refined engine is one of two new transmissions, a six-speed auto or manual, both tweaked for slicker shifting and higher efficiency.

Pretty much every metric is better than before. The D-Max now rides taller, with increased ground clearance and tighter off-roading angles.

Standard D-Max specs

The standard spec list for the all-new D-Max models is epic.

For a start, you get a diff locker on 4x4 models, which is not a standard inclusion on many rivals (or even available from some ute builders), tilt and reach adjustment for the steering wheel (again missing on some competitors), deluxe seat contouring on space and crew cabs, a 4.2-inch multi-information display housed in the instrument cluster, rear vents on crew cabs, Android Auto/wireless Apple CarPlay, DAB+ radio, voice recognition, auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and body colour bumpers on utes.

The default safety inclusions are extensive in the ute segment. You'll get the following:

  • Eight airbags (including a centre airbag)
  • Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
  • Forward collision warning
  • Lane departure prevention and warning
  • Lane keep assist (on automatic models)
  • Emergency lane keeping
  • Turn assist with AEB
  • Emergency stop signals
  • Post-collision brake assist
  • Misacceleration mitigation (automatic models)
  • Adaptive cruise control (autos only)
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Intelligent speed limiter
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Driver attention assist
  • Automatic high beam
  • Coming home light
  • Intelligent seat belt reminder for all seats
  • Utes and cab chassis models get a reversing camera
  • 2 x ISOFIX points for crew cabs

This is a level of safety tech that is effectively unmatched right now, especially as a base level of equipment.

Isuzu D-Max options

There are a number of genuine accessories for the D-Max.

Isuzu D-Max accessories
  • Polished alloy bull bar: $3,400
  • Satin black steel bull bar: $2,999
  • Polished alloy nudge bar: $1,100
  • Tinted bonnet protector: $199
  • Headlight protectors: $173.80
  • Snorkel: $1,190
  • Front standard window weather shields: $270
  • Front and rear slim window weather shields: $270
  • Double grab rail for tray: $253
  • General-purpose alloy tray step: $118.80
  • Slide-out step: $370.70
  • Fire extinguisher holder - Large: $239.80 Small: $229.90
  • Stylish side steps: $699
  • Alloy scuff plates: $180
  • Under rail tub-liner for crew cab utes (not X-Terrain): $670
  • Over rail tub-liner: $670
  • Welded wire mesh window protector: $193.60
  • Steel meshed window protector: $217.80
  • Headboard wheel hanger: $152.90
  • Tail-light protector: $179.30
  • Headboard aerial mount: $140.80
  • Rubber tray mat: $199
  • One-piece, hard tonneau cover: $2,999
  • Three-piece, hard tonneau cover: $3,199
  • Soft tonneau cover: $700
  • Electronic brake controller (for highway or off-road braking settings): $820
  • Polished alloy sports bar: $1,290
  • Satin black ladder rack kit: $890
  • Polished alloy ladder rack kit: $890
  • Heavy-duty ladder rack: $496.10
  • General-purpose ladder rack: $410.30
  • Lockable undertray toolbox: $437.80
  • Undertray water tank: $360.80
  • Cargo net for tray: $106.70
  • Lift-up window canopy: $4,199
  • Sliding-style windowed canopy: $3,999
  • Weight distribution hitch: $899
  • Tow bar kit (for utes: $950 for cab chassis models: $950)
  • Tow bar wiring harness: $249 for 7-pin, $359 for 12-pin
  • Economy alloy tray: $2,123
  • General-purpose alloy tray: $2,281.40
  • Heavy-duty alloy tray: $2,406.80
  • Heavy-duty steel tray: $3,126.20
  • Roof bar set: $569
  • Roof rail cross bars: $539
  • Canvas seat covers front: $499.99
  • Canvas rear seat covers: $550
  • Front rubber cabin floor mats: $120
  • Rubber cabin floor mats: $190
  • Carpet cabin floor mats, front: $140
  • Carpet floor mats: $230

Isuzu D-Max pricing for 2021

2021 Isuzu D-Max Double cab pick-up

Isuzu D-Max 2021 summary

The D-Max, with its dashing new looks, gutsier engine, incredible specs and safety assists might just have hurtled passed the competition to become the most rounded and best value ute on sale in Australia.

Mazda BT-50 2021

Mazda BT-50 ute 2021

Mazda is putting a brand-new, third-generation BT-50 on sale here in October. It's the first major overhaul for the ute in nine years. The previous model was built upon the Ford T6 platform, the same as the Ranger. Mazda based the third-generation BT-50 around some of the Isuzu D-Max's underlying components. For example, they share engines.

What's new on the Mazda BT-50 2021?

First, its burly turbocharged, 3.0-litre diesel power plant, with a stout 140kW and 450Nm. Towing capacity jumps up to 3.5 tonnes, and it has a combined fuel economy best of 7.7L/100km. Payload capacity on some models reaches as high as 1,210kg! Wading depth also rises to 800mm, like the D-Max. 4x4 BT-50s get a diff locker, again, matching the D-Max.

The exterior design has been tweaked so the ute sits more in line with the rest of the Mazda range. Safety is described as "uncompromising", with a huge heap of safety assists, including the following:

  • LED headlights
  • 4.2-inch multi-information display for the driver
  • Auto headlights
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Auto high beam
  • Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
  • Curtain (front and rear), driver and front passenger, front side, far side driver and driver's knee airbags
  • Attention assist
  • Blind spot monitor (BSM)
  • Dynamic stability control (DSC)
  • Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
  • Brake assist (BA)
  • Emergency lane keeping (ELK) – overtaking
  • Emergency stop signal (ESS)
  • Forward collision warning (FCW)
  • Hill descent control (HDC)
  • Hill launch assist (HLA)
  • Intelligent speed limiter (ISL)
  • Lane departure prevention (LDP)
  • Lane departure warning (LDW)
  • Manual speed limiter (MSL)
  • Rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA)
  • Reversing camera
  • Secondary collision reduction
  • Traction control system (TCS)
  • Traffic sign recognition (TSR)
  • Trailer sway control (TSC)
  • Turn assist
  • Spare wheel
  • Daytime running lights
  • Underbody impact protection

Essentially, the BT-50 is setting a new baseline for safety equipment, along with its cousin, the D-Max.

Internally, as standard, the load out is impressive. From the factory, the BT-50 has the following:

  • Power windows (with one-touch for the driver)
  • A/C
  • Cruise control
  • Black cloth seating
  • Seven-inch colour infotainment touchscreen
  • AM/FM radio, plus DAB+
  • Android Auto (USB) and Apple CarPlay (wireless or USB)
  • Auxiliary input
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • At least four-speakers
  • Steering wheel mounted controls
  • USB input for iPods

Mazda BT-50 2021 ute specs

Mazda BT-50 2021 ute interior

Mazda BT-50 2021 pricing

Mazda BT-50 2021 accessories

We expect the factory accessories pricing list to be made public anytime soon, but Mazda has stated that each accessory falls within the scope of the five-year factory warranty.

Mazda BT-50 2021 verdict

The Mazda BT-50 is now perhaps the classiest looking ute (certainly the most car-like), with a very elegant and high-end exterior design combined with an elevated standard specification and oodles of safety aids.

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