Video: New hardcore tow vehicles hit the dirt

Looking for a shiny new, heavy-duty tow vehicle to put in front of your equally shiny new three tonne-plus caravan?

While we're yet to hitch up a van and give them a full tow test, we have driven the just-arrived and 2020-updated Toyota HiLux, Isuzu D-MAX and Land Rover Defender -- all shaping up as worthy options for those wanting the latest driving tech to go with serious towing capabilities...

Toyota HiLux SR5

Rated to tow up to 3500kg the Toyota HiLux – Australia’s best-selling vehicle bar none for the past four years – has come in for a midlife makeover, its most significant upgrade since the eighth-generation’s launch in 2015.

For 2020, the Toyota HiLux SR5, the most popular variant in the range, scores new front-end styling, more power from its 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, improvements to its ride and handling, and a much-needed infotainment revamp in an attempt to keep it at the pointy end of a very busy ute market.

For the full story, click here.

Isuzu D-MAX

Also rated to tow 3500kg, the all-new third-generation Isuzu D-MAX has landed in Australia, promising familiar workhorse credentials but in a shiny, modern exterior and interior.

There’s a new engine, transmission and styling, plus a stronger chassis and suspension package. But the biggest changes have been made to safety, technology, refinement and cabin design, which will appeal to a much broader audience that will have to pay more for it.

For the full story, click here.

Land Rover Defender

Another promising 3500kg tow rated contender, the 21st century reboot of Land Rover’s most famous model has finally arrived in Australia. The all-new 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 is available initially only in five-door long-wheelbase guise with a choice of three engines (two of them sold-out) and six trim levels, totalling nine variants altogether. It makes quite a statement.

For the full story, click here.

Also read:

Tow Test archive