The humble ute has become anything but humble in Australia. Once purely functional workhorses that were hosing out the rear tray after a hard day’s work was both possible and expected, today’s dual-cab utes are just as likely to be found outside a café in South Yarra as they are on a construction site.
Last Sunday, I found myself wedged between a Ford Ranger Raptor and a Toyota HiLux Rogue in the Bunnings car park at Mentone – both sporting immaculate paintwork that suggested they’d never carried so much as a stray bag of potting mix. As I struggled to find room for my modest purchase of garden stakes in my decidedly non-ute hatchback, the owner of the Raptor returned with what appeared to be a single succulent in a small pot.
“Nice ute,” I offered, genuinely admiring the Baja-ready suspension and aggressive stance.
“Thanks mate,” he replied, carefully placing his tiny plant on the passenger seat rather than in the expansive tray. “Kids’ weekend with their mum, so I’m doing a bit of gardening.”
This encounter perfectly encapsulated the contemporary Australian ute market – vehicles with impressive capability that often serve primarily as lifestyle statements or family transport with the added bonus of weekend practicality. It’s a market that has evolved dramatically over the past decade, and one that’s set to undergo even more significant changes in the next 24 months.
With dozens of new models either confirmed or strongly rumored for Australian showrooms, buyers will soon be facing unprecedented choice in the ute segment. From updated versions of familiar favorites to all-new contenders from China and Korea, plus the first serious electric utes, the landscape is set to transform dramatically.
Here’s our comprehensive guide to every new ute heading to Australia over the next two years, based on manufacturer announcements, industry sources, and some educated speculation.
The Big Players: Updates to Market Leaders
Toyota HiLux
The current king of the Australian ute market isn’t about to surrender its crown without a fight. While a completely new generation HiLux is still a few years away, Toyota is preparing a significant update for Australia’s best-selling vehicle to help it fend off increasingly capable competition.
Expected to arrive in the first half of 2025, the updated HiLux will receive refreshed styling, interior upgrades including the latest generation infotainment system, and – perhaps most importantly – a hybrid powertrain option for the first time.
“The hybrid HiLux has been in development for years,” revealed a Toyota dealer principal I’ve known for over a decade, speaking on condition of anonymity during a recent industry golf day. “It’s not just about fuel economy, though that’s obviously important. The instant torque from the electric motor makes a massive difference in off-road situations and when towing. They’ve put a lot of work into making it feel like a proper ‘truck’ despite the electrification.”
The hybrid system is expected to pair Toyota’s familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel with an electric motor and battery pack, creating a mild hybrid rather than a plug-in system. This approach should preserve the HiLux’s legendary reliability while offering moderate fuel economy improvements and enhanced low-end torque.
Beyond the hybrid, the updated HiLux is expected to retain its existing diesel powertrain options with minor refinements, while top-spec models will receive upgraded suspension tuning to better compete with the sophisticated ride quality of the Ford Ranger.
Ford Ranger
Having launched the current generation Ranger to critical acclaim and strong sales, Ford isn’t standing still. Industry sources suggest a mid-cycle enhancement (MCE) is slated for late 2025, bringing subtle styling tweaks and technology updates rather than fundamental changes.
“The current Ranger hit the sweet spot in terms of design and capability,” explained a Ford insider during a casual conversation at a recent product launch. “The updates will be more about refining the package than reinventing it. Expect improvements to the SYNC system, some new driver assistance features, and possibly expanded powertrain options.”
Those expanded powertrain options could potentially include a plug-in hybrid variant that has already been confirmed for European markets. Using a 2.3-liter turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor, the Ranger PHEV promises significant efficiency improvements for urban driving while maintaining strong towing and payload capabilities.
For the Australian market, however, the V6 turbodiesel is expected to remain the flagship engine, with Ford’s engineers focusing on refinement and efficiency improvements rather than outright power increases.
The Ranger Raptor will also receive updates in line with the broader range, though its fundamental performance-focused character will remain unchanged.
Isuzu D-Max and Mazda BT-50
The twins under the skin from Isuzu and Mazda are both due for updates in 2025, with the D-Max likely leading the charge in the first quarter followed by the BT-50 a few months later.
Based on vehicles already released in Thailand, the updates will focus on exterior styling – particularly for the D-Max, which receives a more aggressive front end design with redesigned headlights and grille – and interior technology enhancements.
“The revised D-Max looks considerably more modern,” noted Sarah Williams, a product specialist for a major fleet provider who recently inspected the Thai-market version. “The interior updates are more subtle but address some of the current model’s ergonomic quirks. It’s a thoughtful evolution rather than a revolution.”
Mechanically, both utes are expected to retain their current 3.0-liter turbodiesel engines with minor refinements for improved efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission will continue, though software updates may deliver smoother shifts and better response.
For the Australian market, both manufacturers are expected to focus on enhanced safety features and driver assistance technologies, potentially making features currently reserved for higher trim levels available across more of the range.
The New Contenders: Fresh Models and Brands
GWM Cannon Alpha
Chinese manufacturer GWM has already made significant inroads into the Australian ute market with its Cannon range, offering strong value propositions that have resonated with budget-conscious buyers. The next step in its evolution will be the Cannon Alpha – a more premium offering aimed squarely at the upper end of the mainstream ute market.
Set to arrive in late 2024, the Cannon Alpha will feature more aggressive styling, upgraded interior materials, and enhanced technology compared to the standard Cannon. Most significantly, it will introduce a new powertrain – a 2.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with a hybrid system, delivering a combined output of around 255kW and 650Nm.
During a recent media preview event in Sydney where I had the chance to sit in a left-hand drive example, the Cannon Alpha’s interior quality genuinely surprised me. The materials, fit and finish, and technology integration were on par with established players costing significantly more.
“We’re targeting buyers who want the features and capability of a Ranger Wildtrak or HiLux SR5+ but don’t want to spend $70,000+,” explained a GWM spokesperson. “The Cannon Alpha will offer comparable equipment and performance at a price point starting with a ‘5’.”
This aggressive pricing, combined with GWM’s increasingly comprehensive dealer network and improving reputation for reliability, could make the Cannon Alpha one of the more significant new ute arrivals of 2025.
LDV T90
Another Chinese contender raising its game is LDV, whose T90 ute is set for a comprehensive update in early 2025. The revised model, already revealed for some international markets, features more sophisticated styling that moves away from the somewhat derivative design of the current model.
More significantly, the T90 will introduce a new powertrain lineup, including a twin-turbocharged diesel engine producing approximately 160kW and 500Nm – figures that would place it comfortably among the more powerful options in the mainstream ute segment.
“The new T90 is a quantum leap over the current model,” revealed a distribution staff member during a frank conversation at an industry function. “It’s been developed with Australia specifically in mind, with extensive hot-weather testing and tuning for our fuel quality and driving conditions.”
Interior quality and technology will also see substantial improvements, with a large central touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and significantly upgraded materials throughout the cabin. Safety equipment will be comprehensive, with the brand targeting a five-star ANCAP rating – something Chinese utes have sometimes struggled to achieve in the past.
Pricing is expected to remain competitive, with the range likely spanning from approximately $40,000 to $60,000, maintaining LDV’s value proposition while moving slightly upmarket to reflect the enhanced capabilities and features.
Kia Tasman
One of the most anticipated new entrants to the Australian ute market is the Kia Tasman – the Korean brand’s first proper dual-cab pickup and a vehicle that’s been developed with significant input from Kia Australia.
Set to arrive in the second half of 2025, the Tasman represents a significant investment for Kia and a strategic move into one of Australia’s most lucrative market segments. Based on a dedicated ute platform rather than an SUV conversion, the Tasman promises genuine capability alongside the design flair and technology Kia has become known for.
“The Tasman is not just a toe in the water for Kia,” explained a company insider during a background conversation at Kia’s Australian headquarters. “It’s a fully committed entry into the ute segment with a vehicle that’s been benchmarked against the class leaders and developed to meet or exceed their capabilities.”
Powertrain options are expected to include both diesel and petrol options, with the familiar 2.2-liter turbodiesel from the Sorento likely to serve as the entry point. More interesting is the potential inclusion of the 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine from the Stinger and Genesis range, which would make the Tasman one of the most powerful utes in its class.
Design-wise, the Tasman will feature Kia’s distinctive styling cues adapted to the ute format, with the brand’s signature ‘tiger nose’ grille and sharp lighting elements. Interior quality is expected to be a strong point, with materials and technology carried over from Kia’s passenger car range rather than the more utilitarian approach often seen in traditional utes.
Pricing remains speculative, but industry sources suggest a range spanning from approximately $45,000 to $70,000, positioning the Tasman as a premium mainstream offering rather than a budget alternative.
The Electric Revolution: Battery-Powered Utes
LDV eT90
While several electric utes have been announced globally, the LDV eT90 looks set to be the first proper battery-electric dual-cab to reach Australian showrooms, with an expected arrival in late 2024 or early 2025.
Based on the T90 platform but featuring unique styling elements to differentiate it as an electric model, the eT90 will offer a claimed range of approximately 350km from its 88.5kWh battery pack. Power outputs are expected to be around 130kW and 310Nm – modest by electric vehicle standards but sufficient for most ute applications.
“The eT90 is targeting a different kind of ute buyer,” noted an LDV representative during a product briefing I attended last month. “It’s not trying to be a like-for-like replacement for a diesel dual-cab. Instead, it’s aimed at urban and suburban users who want the practicality of a ute but do relatively short daily drives where an EV makes perfect sense.”
While towing capacity will be limited compared to conventional utes (likely around 1500kg), the eT90 will offer comparable payload capacity to its diesel sibling, maintaining its practicality for trade use. Fast-charging capability will allow recharging from 20% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes on a suitable DC charger.
Pricing is expected to start from around $60,000, positioning it at the upper end of the mainstream ute market but significantly below the premium electric pickups expected to follow it.
Ford Ranger Lightning
Following the success of the F-150 Lightning in North America, Ford is developing an electric version of the Ranger for global markets, including Australia. Expected to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026, the Ranger Lightning (final name yet to be confirmed) will represent Ford’s first battery-electric offering in the mid-size pickup segment.
Details remain limited, but industry sources suggest the Ranger Lightning will feature a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup with power outputs potentially exceeding 350kW and 650Nm – figures that would make it even more powerful than the performance-focused Ranger Raptor.
“The instant torque delivery of electric motors is perfect for off-road driving and towing,” explained a Ford engineer during a technical workshop on electrification. “The challenge is balancing range expectations with the capability Ranger customers demand. Nobody wants an electric ute that can only tow for 100km before needing a recharge.”
To address these concerns, the Ranger Lightning is expected to feature a large battery pack of at least 100kWh, offering a targeted range of 400-450km under normal driving conditions. Innovative features like bi-directional charging will allow the vehicle to power tools, campsites, or even feed electricity back into the home during outages.
Pricing will be premium, with the range likely starting around $75,000 and extending well into six figures for fully-equipped models, positioning it as a technology flagship for the Ranger lineup.
Rivian R1T
American electric vehicle specialist Rivian has confirmed plans to enter the Australian market, with its R1T pickup expected to be among its initial offerings. Already on sale in the United States to critical acclaim, the R1T represents a premium approach to the electric ute concept.
With quad motors providing individual wheel control, advanced air suspension that can raise the vehicle for extreme off-road clearance, and innovative features like the ‘gear tunnel’ storage space between the cabin and bed, the R1T reimagines what a pickup truck can be in the electric era.
Performance is extraordinary by traditional ute standards, with the ability to accelerate from 0-100km/h in as little as 3 seconds in some configurations. Range varies by battery size, with the larger ‘Max’ battery pack offering up to 640km between charges – comparable to conventional diesel utes.
The catch, of course, is price. When it arrives in late 2025 or early 2026, the R1T is expected to start from at least $120,000, with fully optioned versions potentially approaching $180,000. This positions it firmly in premium territory, competing more with high-end SUVs than traditional work-focused utes.
“The R1T isn’t trying to be everything to everyone,” noted automotive analyst Michael Chen when I called him for perspective on Rivian’s Australian plans. “It’s targeting a specific, affluent buyer who wants the practicality of a ute format but demands cutting-edge technology and performance. It’s more of a lifestyle statement than a workhorse.”
Tesla Cybertruck
The most controversial ute potentially headed to Australian shores is Tesla’s polarizing Cybertruck. While deliveries have begun in North America after significant delays, Tesla has been typically vague about international expansion plans, including for Australia.
The unique stainless steel angular design has been slightly refined from the original concept but remains unlike anything else on the road. Performance is extraordinary, with the top ‘Cyberbeast’ trim offering supercar-rivaling acceleration and innovative features like four-wheel steering that enables a remarkably tight turning circle for such a large vehicle.
Should it reach Australia, likely not before 2026, the Cybertruck would undoubtedly command a significant premium, potentially starting around $140,000 for entry models and exceeding $200,000 for the high-performance variants.
“The Cybertruck would be a niche product in Australia, but an important image builder for Tesla,” suggested a Tesla showroom manager during a casual conversation when I was last looking at the Model Y. “We get asked about it constantly, especially by existing Tesla owners looking to add to their collection. The demand is definitely there, even at premium price points.”
The practical challenges of bringing the Cybertruck to Australia are substantial, however. Its size exceeds standard Australian garage dimensions, and questions remain about how easily it could be adapted to right-hand drive given its unconventional construction methods.
The China Factor: More Contenders on the Horizon
Beyond the specific models mentioned above, several additional Chinese manufacturers are eyeing the lucrative Australian ute market, with at least three more brands expected to launch dual-cab offerings in the next 18-24 months.
BYD, already establishing itself in the passenger car and SUV segments, has confirmed plans for a ute model that will likely offer both conventional and fully electric powertrains. SAIC’s MG brand, which briefly offered the Extender ute in Thailand, is developing a new global pickup that could reach Australia by late 2025.
Most interesting perhaps is Chery’s premium Omoda brand, which is reportedly developing a lifestyle-focused dual-cab with distinctive design and technology-rich features aimed at urban buyers who occasionally need ute practicality.
“The Chinese brands see the Australian ute market as a huge opportunity,” explained industry analyst Sarah Thompson during our phone conversation about this article. “They’ve studied how Japanese brands like Toyota and Isuzu established themselves here decades ago and view utes as a way to build credibility and brand recognition in a market where these vehicles are cultural icons as much as practical tools.”
The challenge for these newcomers will be establishing trust in a segment where reliability and durability are paramount considerations for buyers. Many ute owners regularly take their vehicles into remote areas where breakdown recovery is complicated and expensive, making brand reputation a significant factor in purchase decisions.
Spoiled for Choice
For Australian ute buyers, the next two years promise unprecedented choice across all price points and use cases. From updated versions of familiar favorites to all-new contenders and the first serious electric options, the market is set to become more diverse than ever before.
As I finished writing this article, I decided to take a drive past that same Bunnings store where I’d encountered the Raptor owner. Sure enough, the car park was filled with utes of all descriptions – some clearly work vehicles with tool boxes and trade signage, others pristine lifestyle statements with mountain bikes mounted in the tray or camping gear strapped to the roof.
The diversity of these vehicles and their uses encapsulates why the Australian ute market continues to grow and evolve. These versatile vehicles have transcended their utilitarian origins to become genuine do-everything propositions for many Australians, combining work capability, family transport, and adventure machine in a single package.
With the new models outlined above set to join the fray, that proposition is only becoming more compelling. Whether you’re a tradesperson needing a reliable work companion, a family seeking weekend adventure capabilities, or an early adopter wanting the latest electric technology, the expanding ute market will soon have something tailored specifically to your needs.
The only downside? Those Bunnings car parks are going to get even more crowded with utes of all shapes and sizes – and I’ll still be trying to fit my gardening purchases into a hatchback, wedged between these increasingly diverse utility vehicles.
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