The Australian ute market is set for an exciting shake-up in 2025, with a range of new and updated models catering to diverse needs—from workhorses to adventure-ready powerhouses. With the push for electrified powertrains, optimised off-road capability, and premium cabin comforts, buyers will have more choices than ever. Here’s a look at the most anticipated utes hitting Aussie roads next year.
| 2025 Ute | Power | Torque | Expected Starting price |
| Kia Tasman | 154kW | 441Nm | $41,000 (est.) |
| JAC T9 | 125kW | 410Nm | $42,662 |
| GWM Cannon Alpha | 255kW | 648Nm | $51,990 |
| Toyota HiLux V-Active 48v | 150kW | 500Nm | $54,130 |
| Isuzu D-MAX | 140kW | 450Nm | $59,500 |
| Ford Ranger PHEV | 222kW | 452Nm | $71,990 |
| Ford Ranger Wildtrak X | 150kW | 500Nm | $74,840 |
| Isuzu D-MAX Blade | 140kW | 450Nm | $76,990 |
| Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster | 210kW | 450Nm | $105,000 |
| Toyota Tundra | 326kW | 790Nm | $155,990 |
| Jeep Gladiator | 209kW | 347Nm | Undisclosed |
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Kia Tasman
Kia has officially unveiled its highly anticipated Tasman ute, confirming an Australian release following its debut in Korea in early 2025.
Under the hood, the Tasman features a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 154kW and 441Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup enables a 0-100 km/h sprint in 10.4 seconds. Designed for versatility, the ute incorporates a double-wishbone front suspension and a rigid rear axle with leaf springs, complemented by Kia’s Sensitive Damper Control and Hydraulic Rebound Stop for improved ride comfort and handling. It also boasts an 800mm wading depth for added off-road capability.
Buyers can choose from three trim levels—Baseline, X-Line, and X-Pro. The X-Pro is tailored for off-road adventures with an additional 28mm of ground clearance (252mm total), 17-inch all-terrain tyres, an automatic rear electronic locking differential, and an exclusive X-Trek mode for low-speed terrain management.
All-wheel drive is standard on the X-Line and X-Pro, while an optional AWD system is available for the Baseline. AWD-equipped models also include terrain modes for Sand, Mud, Snow, and Rock, ensuring the Tasman is ready for challenging environments.
JAC T9
China’s JAC Motors is entering the competitive dual-cab ute market in Australia with the value-packed T9, taking on rivals like the GWM Ute, LDV T60, and SsangYong Musso.
Available in two trims—Oasis ($42,662 before on-road costs) and Haven ($45,630)—the T9 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 125kW and 410Nm. It comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system.
Boasting a 3000kg towing capacity, a 76-litre fuel tank, and a comprehensive suite of active safety features, the JAC T9 also carries a seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Further cementing its credentials, the ute achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating in August 2024. Additionally, an all-electric version is confirmed for the Australian market in the future.
GWM Cannon Alpha
GWM’s Cannon Alpha range is redefining the ute segment with a diverse lineup, including the Lux turbo-diesel ($51,990 driveaway), the mid-range Ultra turbo-diesel ($57,990 driveaway), and the flagship Ultra plug-in hybrid ($64,990 driveaway).
While the BYD Shark 6 has gotten much of the market attention as a hybrid ute, the Cannon Alpha came in as Australia’s first plug-in hybrid ute. In the Ultra hybrid trim, it pairs a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering an impressive 255kW and 648Nm while maintaining a fuel consumption of 9.8L/100km. Meanwhile, the 2.4-litre turbo-diesel variants generate 135kW and 480Nm, with an 8.9L/100km fuel economy figure.
All models feature a nine-speed automatic transmission and a Torque On Demand (TOD) four-wheel-drive system with a Borg Warner transfer case for enhanced off-road capability.
Toyota HiLux V-Active 48V
Toyota’s latest technological offering in the HiLux lineup, the V-Active 48V, has arrived in showrooms, introducing mild-hybrid technology—but without the full hybrid label.
This system integrates an electric generator and lithium battery, delivering an extra 12kW and 65Nm alongside regenerative braking. Despite these enhancements, peak outputs remain at 150kW and 500Nm from the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine.
The mild-hybrid setup improves efficiency by approximately 10 per cent, bringing the SR5 4×4 dual-cab automatic’s fuel consumption down to 7.2L/100km.
Speculation continues over whether Toyota will introduce a high-performance variant to rival Ford’s Ranger Raptor. While the HiLux GR Sport made strides in that direction, a true Raptor competitor may have to wait for the next-generation HiLux, expected to debut in 2025. Meanwhile, Toyota’s long-term strategy is set to include electrified versions of its legendary ute.
Isuzu D-MAX
As one of Australia’s longest-running dual-cab utes, the Isuzu D-MAX receives a timely facelift for 2025, bringing fresh styling and updated technology. While its proven 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre turbo-diesel powertrains remain unchanged, exterior revisions include a redesigned grille, updated LED headlights, new alloy wheels, and distinctive ‘triple armour’ LED tail lights.
Inside, the D-MAX adopts a more car-like interior, borrowing key features from the MU-X SUV. This includes a larger centre screen, USB-C charging ports, an upgraded instrument cluster, and refined paddle shifters. A new ‘Rough Terrain Mode’ enhances its off-road capabilities, while an upgraded front camera offers a wider and more precise view.
International reports suggest a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel with a 48V mild-hybrid system could be introduced in the future. While there’s no confirmation for Australia, Isuzu has announced an all-electric D-MAX variant, expected to launch in Europe in 2025, with local arrivals anticipated in 2026.
Ford Ranger PHEV
Ford has confirmed pricing and specifications for its highly anticipated Ranger PHEV, which is set to arrive in Australia by mid-2025.
Targeting the growing demand for electrified utes, the plug-in hybrid Ranger will be available in four variants: XLT ($71,990 MLP), Sport ($75,990), Wildtrak ($79,990), and the Stormtrak launch edition ($86,990). While significantly pricier than its combustion-engine counterparts, the PHEV offers a compelling alternative to the emerging BYD Shark.
The Ranger PHEV made its global debut at the IAA Transportation Show in Hanover, Germany, on September 16, 2024. Given its steep pricing, the Ranger PHEV will arrive in showrooms under strict scrutiny for its value proposition, and if it can sell on more than just the model name’s heritage.
Read more about the Ford Ranger PHEV in our new coverage – here.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak X
The hybrid tech isn’t the only upgrade decided for the Ford Ranger this year, as the rugged and adventure-ready Ranger Wildtrak X is set to make a return in 2025, once again as a limited-edition offering.
Priced at $77,640 (MLP including GST), the latest iteration receives a $1650 price increase over its 2023 predecessor. It slots between the standard Wildtrak V6 ($74,840) and the premium Platinum V6 ($80,640).
The Wildtrak X enhances off-road capability with exclusive Bilstein-tuned position-sensitive dampers featuring remote nitrogen-filled reservoirs. Ground clearance is increased by 26mm, while the track width expands by 30mm.
Powering the Wildtrak X is the familiar 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, delivering 150kW and 500Nm through a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Isuzu D-MAX Blade
Isuzu has elevated its D-MAX lineup with the introduction of the flagship Blade edition, a collaboration with performance specialists Walkinshaw.
The D-MAX Blade is priced at $76,990 drive-away—an introductory offer in late 2024, with prices expected to rise in 2025. While the powertrain remains unchanged from the X-Terrain (150kW/500Nm), the Blade benefits from Walkinshaw’s extensive tuning expertise and features distinct styling cues.
The result is a ute that not only enhances the D-MAX’s rugged DNA but also offers a premium driving experience.
Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster
Expanding the Ineos Grenadier lineup, the Quartermaster pick-up brings a versatile second body style to the British marque’s rugged off-road offering. Powered by BMW-built six-cylinder petrol (210kW/450Nm) and diesel engines (183kW/550Nm), mated to an 8-speed automatic, the Grenadier packs a fair bit of grunt.
Priced from $105,000 plus on-road costs, it extends the ladder-frame chassis by 305mm to a 3227mm wheelbase, creating an overall length of 5400mm. This allows it to accommodate a 1200mm x 800mm European pallet in its tray.
Built for durability, the Quartermaster retains the Grenadier’s 3500kg towing capacity, box-section ladder-frame chassis, heavy-duty solid beam axles, and a two-speed transfer case. It also offers up to three locking differentials, reinforcing its go-anywhere credentials.
Toyota Tundra
Toyota Australia has officially welcomed the 2025 Tundra to its lineup, following an extensive nine-month evaluation program with 300 leased vehicles.
Imported from the U.S. in left-hand-drive configuration, the full-size ute undergoes right-hand-drive conversion by the Walkinshaw Group in Melbourne. This marks the first time Toyota has globally sanctioned such a conversion process.
Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, shared with the LandCruiser 300 Series, the Toyota Tundra benefits from LC300 components in its transformation.
Power comes from a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 hybrid, producing 326kW and 790Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and part-time dual-range transfer case. With a robust 4500kg towing capacity and a 758kg payload, the Tundra is designed for heavy-duty applications.
Pricing starts at $155,990, positioning it as a premium contender in the full-size ute segment against the likes of the Ford F-150.
Jeep Gladiator
The 2025 Jeep Gladiator builds on its rugged legacy with design enhancements and interior technology upgrades. Drawing inspiration from the latest Wrangler, the updated Gladiator sports a refreshed front grille, revised headlights, and new wheel designs, while the antenna is now integrated into the windscreen for a sleeker look.
Inside, the biggest transformation comes with a redesigned dashboard housing a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen featuring the latest Uconnect 5 system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
While Australian specifications are yet to be confirmed, international models benefit from added safety tech, including curtain airbags, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Forward Collision Warning. The tried-and-tested 3.6-litre V6 engine (209kW/347Nm) continues to power the Gladiator, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the rugged premium off-roaders like the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster, hybrid innovations such as the GWM Cannon Alpha, or powerhouse newcomers like the Kia Tasman, 2025 promises a ute revolution in Australia. With a strong focus on performance, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology, the upcoming lineup ensures there’s a perfect ute for every driver.
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