Comments and Clarifications: 1. More info at l2sfbc.com/newcar/ 2. A ute tub is around 150-200kg, and a service body around 350-450kg. Canopies that fit over tubs are 30-80kg. A ute still has a payload advantage, even more if you swap the tub for a lighter tray. 3. There have been high-payload wagons such as the old model Defender and now the Troopy.
@@L2SFBC it's not likely to be in the shopping list for most people due to poor track width and age but the 90 series prado has an admirable payload of not much less then 1t.
The advantage of the ute payload is almost all gone when you modify the tub to be more like a wagon. Every mod removes some payload headroom, leaving you surprisingly close to a wagon capacity but without the comfort and convenience you simply can't add to a ute. When towing light loads, the wagon is vastly superior, when going heavy, both are so heavily compromised that it makes no difference which one you use, the kids are staying at home to keep it legal and safe in either case. GVM upgrades offer similar improvements to both, so unless you go up in size (300, US Ute etc), it's personal preference.
It's not all gone and then you end up with more space as a result. But yes fit out does eat into payload. A canopy to fit over the tub should be well under 100kg. A replacement service body may be 400 but you deduct the tub weight of around 200kg.
Local Mazda dealer has a BT-50 for sale, fully optioned with all genuine accessories (Canopy, Bullbar, towbar, snorkel, flares etc). I asked how much the whole thing weighs, they can't tell me (and probably don't care 🙂). They pointed me to the Mazda website which says their ABS canopy weighs 140kg. I don't believe that, but have no way of telling. ARB etc typically claim less than 100kg. I had a fibreglass canopy on my 1990 hilux that I could lift on and off by myself!
I am going through a similar process as you. I've had 3 dual cabs spanning 30 years and believe that they still suit my requirements for all the same reasons that you mention. Currently have a 10yo DMax and looking at what's next. Bang for Buck, plus experience, make it hard to look past a BT-50. Currently tow a 2T (loaded) 19ft tandem caravan (they don't make them that light any more) but looking at something more modern with ensuite and more rugged with a view to taking it on some rougher roads around Oz when I start touring across the next couple of years. That means a van probably 2.4T TARE min, getting up towards 3T loaded. I have been of the belief that fully optioned/loaded to my requirements (but within GVM/GCM/Axle loads) the BT-50 would be suitable, and while I still believe that, after having watched a bunch of your videos (among other sources) lately, I am starting to wonder if it's a little too borderline. The new V6 Ranger however, being a little bigger (and definitely more powerful) would give me a little more margin - and there's the built in trailer braking stuff. I don't want a bigger vehicle and while I would love to get a lighter caravan, they simply don't exist any more in the specs that I am looking for. Your van is smaller, BT-50/DMax would smash it, but since you seem to love your current Ranger, I can see that it would be difficult to choose anything else.
My previous vehicle was a 2013 dual cab D-Max which we set up for towing our caravan and touring (last year of owning it it had a canopy). It took nearly 2 years to come to the conclusion that for what we do, a dual cab is still the best solution for us. Upgraded to an MY24 D-Max (dual cab) with a canopy and has proven that we made the right decision sticking to a dual cab. There are just things that you can't do as easily in other cars compared to a dual cab. Looking forward to seeing what you ended up with.
@@L2SFBC In our case, it was having a set up in the back (like a dual zone fridge which are large, dual battery set up, and a drawer) that is closed up and private. Yes, it gets hotter in the back of a canopy, but the convenience was greater. We have the RSI Smartcap as I didn't want to venture down the suspension upgrade path to do a proper service body (or tray/canopy) set up. Being able to access the items from the back and sides is much easier (especially for the items furthest from the back). The lower payload in the wagon makes you think harder on how to set up the back for touring. My situation would be different to others no doubt, and that is the beauty of having the choice we have in vehicles and accessories. I didn't want to spend any more than I had to to make this vehicle work for me and the dual cab was the option that allowed me to meet those needs.
@@userisalex100% agree the space and extra payload of the ute is instrumental in allowing more budget conscious choices for fitout. Which is immensely important IMO in addition to giving payload headroom.
After haveing a Disco 4 for 9 yrs we spent 12 months looking for a replacement.Didnt want a tradies ute for many reasons.One was,none were anywhere near as comfortable as a wagon.We ended up buying one of the last of the LC200s,best thing we ever did,and it suits our lifestyle.Hasn't missed a beat and ticks all the boxes for us.
I too have looking to purchase this type of vehicle. The disadvantage of the ute is 1. drum brakes in 2025? 2. The expense & weight of a canopy. 3. If you ever need to carry something longer than 1.5 metres then the ute is useless while you can fold down the seats in the wagon. 4. in summer everything inside the canopy gets warm (food etc) while the wagon has a/c. So it's wagon for me.
Something I like about wagons is weight distribution front to rear tends or can be a bit better when it’s loaded up. You can load things low and more towards the centre of the vehicle. Especially good when you start “temporarily” removing seats.
I prefer the station wagon. With the rear seats folded down, the loading area of the wagon is usually longer than that of the pickup truck. Since I prefer to sleep in the car, the wagon is my first choice.
Ive had both. Again the term “fit for purpose” comes to mind. My 200 and 300 series wagons are not suited to our lifestyle. The plastics internally bruise too easily and in owning horses, horse feeds, saddles and bridles take their toll. A dual cab for me allows me to carry dogs, bales of hay, fence posts etc. however in retirement a wagon for travelling including troopcarrier may be the ticket 🤔 food for thought
I've always had v6 4wd wagons till now, (Wd21, 90 and 120 series) they were used for recreation and occasional towing. But now as a daily towing a tool trailer i bought a Mux, fuel bill has gone down half from the v6 120 series.
If he has any sense a 2A 109 Land Rover. I could transform my old Landy from station wagon, to troopy, to ute in 3-4 hours working on my own. The only drawback was space for storing the different bodies and roof when not in use..
@@Frombie_01 unfortunately in 2025 people don't know an oil filter from an alternator. In saying that most vehicles basic mechanicals are fairly reliable, so I don't believe a vehicle from the 60s is on the radar.
Your bottom line: Payload and space. I'm guessing a GXL Troopcarrier wasn't on your radar, but with 1115kg payload, full 7010kg GCM, huge space, 180L fuel, no adblue, no 48V, tall tyres, auto and manual transmission options, factory diff locks F&R, 5 seats, no annoying beeps, dust proof body, proven reliability, and a million ways to fit it out including a poptop camper, it is fairly unique. Fantastic resale. Surprising fuel consumption with tall skinny tyres. Downsides are it carries no ANCAP rating, handles like a truck, tall in carparks, limited "comfort". And its still in such demand there is still a 12 month wait to get one. "Life is too short for boring cars" and a Troopy is popular because its not boring and a great overlanding 4wd. Mine is set up as a wagon.
@@philg2468 that’s why I bought a troopy last year last of the V8 GXL. It is unbelievably better on fuel for a V8 (11.1L/100 with roof rack) endless opportunities of packing ideas. These best 4wd ever made
Just thought of one other pro for a Ute, you can generally chuck anything in the back without worrying about damaging the interior (assuming you have a bed liner). Same can’t normally be said for a wagon. I’m thinking thinks like firewood etc. much easier in a Ute than a wagon
Great video. Thankyou. I love the flexibility of utes but I’ve always leaned towards wagons because of the fear of bending a Ute chassis when towing. I know this is mainly an issue if overloaded but I’ve read of people that have bent Ute chassis when hitting (eg) washouts too fast. Is this a thing? Value your opinion.
That is only an issue if the ute is overloaded and misused. Keep it within manufacturer limits and drive sensibly and it won't be a problem. Also don't use extended tow hitches.
Just spent two days in a 2025 Ford Ranger, 3.0 V6 diesel.Slovenia, Europe.Permanent 4WD, Part time 4x4 + 4 lo. A new feature. Although the impracticality of the UTE for me is a no-go. Would putt the wallet out on the sun for a Wagon with this drivetrain and engine. But no such car here.... All 1.5 three cylinder cofee grinders here for non commercial use.
@L2SFBC Yes, impractical. No long cargo without sticking out somewhrre I was sent to local Ike in the winter and rain. 2m cardbord box. Dud not fit in the cab. Did not fit in the cargo. Allmost cried of fruetration 🤣 On a half meter shorter saloon wagon - i pressed hatch button, seat folding button and box had room to spare. Grocerry getter? No. Stuff getter ? No Does bike fit? No Do skies fit? No You have to spend anothet grand or two in accesories to make it beatable. Load capacity? I will hook a trailer for that. Only thing Ranger did well was towing 3.5t trailer ...
Moving from a wagon to a ute recently, i found when you want to increase passengers them cargo must go somewhere else. Doing a moderate amount of rock crawling, i would rather distribute that weight to the back or keep low in the bed vs placing weight on top of wagon. Also i consider general ride comfort a factor here in Utah. I'm often driving 2-4 hours on the highway before arriving to dirt. Having gear on top of the wagon is tiresome over the hours from the wind and noise. Keep aerodynamics proper above the cab translates to a comfortable drive listening to music, audiobooks, or conversation. I only have to disregard a couple of really hard trails because of the longer wheel base but in reality I might not ever do those trails any way.
Also i really hate all of the fuel can solutions in the market place. So expensive. Just throw a couple cans in truck bed, separated from cabin, makes things much easier.
If you set up the suspension correctly and put 255/85 is a very very good 4wd and drives better than a hilux, I’ve both just my opinion. It’s true that is very easy to make it very uncomfortable to handle with 315 and a wrong suspension.
I think you’ll get a Ranger XLT with a 3L V6 & 10sp Auto in Sedona Orange. Why? 17” wheels Plenty of power and torque Has full time 4wd capability Meets your towing requirements 974kg payload. Still has 3120kg of towing capacity left when at max GVM. And most importantly, you can have it in orange 😋
So Robert, when I said in the earlier video that you should just confirm that it’s going to be a Quartermaster and spare us the suspense… but now maybe it’s going to be Quartermaster or Grenadier? The drama!
I have just gone through this exercise and am selling the Pajero and after 10 years of faultless, reliable service, it's time for a change. I looked at the Triton but the engine size of 2.4L put me off. So did the annoying driver monitoring system they put on these things. I'd love to have kept with Mitsi for the AWD option but ended up with a D-Max Blade.
Just went through this and ended up with a musso due to none of the wagons having enough payload. My wife wouldn't let me get a service body so i was stuck with a canopy on the tub and i hate everything about it. Why manufacturers make tailgates fold horizontal insted of folded all the way down 180 deg is the dumbest thing known to man. It makes getting anything in or out of the tub an absolute PITA and 90% of the time you need to climb in to get anything. Not having air-conditioning in the load area is a pain so the dogs can't travel in the tub. Why cant manufacturers just make wagons with 1t payload. Why cant the government just change ADRs to actually help customers and just make all wagons have a min 1t payload and all utes have a min 1.5t payload and make GCM = GVM + towing capacity. It would solve so many of the overloading problems we see. Pretty much any wagon you see towing a large caravan that has a bullbar is over weight
The old Defender had a 1000kg payload, as does the LC76 now. INEOS tried with the Grenadier, but it got too heavy. I agree with all your points...try and get a service body, it offers better access than anything else!
@@L2SFBC I own a 2012 Puma 2.2 Defender (90k genuine on the clock) used for outback travel, and a Dmax for daily use, but upgraded suspension (Outback Armour), and for me the best is both vehicles have a manual gearbox.
Not everyone would still keep to an increased payload. It would just be an invitation to carry even more stuff. Cars are already engineered with a safety margin, hence why you don't see them just failing like one would expect. An increase in payload would also make what are expensive vehicles even more expensive. Some are reducing payloads due to the fleet market 😄 But having a vehicle with a 1t payload that is a true 1t payload in the area that it can actually carry it (in the tray) would be excellent. Can only dream.
2:00 very misleading. With their back seats folded down some wagons will have more storage than a ute. That’s especially relevant if you only have a driver or driver and passenger upfront.
Comments and Clarifications:
1. More info at l2sfbc.com/newcar/
2. A ute tub is around 150-200kg, and a service body around 350-450kg. Canopies that fit over tubs are 30-80kg. A ute still has a payload advantage, even more if you swap the tub for a lighter tray.
3. There have been high-payload wagons such as the old model Defender and now the Troopy.
@@L2SFBC it's not likely to be in the shopping list for most people due to poor track width and age but the 90 series prado has an admirable payload of not much less then 1t.
Troopy is a a cross between wagon, Ute and a van
Thanks!
Thank you Jerry that made a huge difference to the video's earnings!
The advantage of the ute payload is almost all gone when you modify the tub to be more like a wagon. Every mod removes some payload headroom, leaving you surprisingly close to a wagon capacity but without the comfort and convenience you simply can't add to a ute. When towing light loads, the wagon is vastly superior, when going heavy, both are so heavily compromised that it makes no difference which one you use, the kids are staying at home to keep it legal and safe in either case. GVM upgrades offer similar improvements to both, so unless you go up in size (300, US Ute etc), it's personal preference.
100% agree - ute canopies are 100-150kg which comes directly off the payload.
It's not all gone and then you end up with more space as a result. But yes fit out does eat into payload. A canopy to fit over the tub should be well under 100kg. A replacement service body may be 400 but you deduct the tub weight of around 200kg.
@@L2SFBC Replacing my D-max space cab tub with a service body with four undertray storage boxes added 40kg.
Local Mazda dealer has a BT-50 for sale, fully optioned with all genuine accessories (Canopy, Bullbar, towbar, snorkel, flares etc). I asked how much the whole thing weighs, they can't tell me (and probably don't care 🙂). They pointed me to the Mazda website which says their ABS canopy weighs 140kg. I don't believe that, but have no way of telling. ARB etc typically claim less than 100kg. I had a fibreglass canopy on my 1990 hilux that I could lift on and off by myself!
I don't believe 140kg for a canopy-on-tub. I know a fibreglass canopy in its packaging is 89kg, so maybe under 80 fitted.
Always accurate, informative, logical and well presented. Well done Robert.
I am going through a similar process as you. I've had 3 dual cabs spanning 30 years and believe that they still suit my requirements for all the same reasons that you mention. Currently have a 10yo DMax and looking at what's next. Bang for Buck, plus experience, make it hard to look past a BT-50.
Currently tow a 2T (loaded) 19ft tandem caravan (they don't make them that light any more) but looking at something more modern with ensuite and more rugged with a view to taking it on some rougher roads around Oz when I start touring across the next couple of years. That means a van probably 2.4T TARE min, getting up towards 3T loaded.
I have been of the belief that fully optioned/loaded to my requirements (but within GVM/GCM/Axle loads) the BT-50 would be suitable, and while I still believe that, after having watched a bunch of your videos (among other sources) lately, I am starting to wonder if it's a little too borderline. The new V6 Ranger however, being a little bigger (and definitely more powerful) would give me a little more margin - and there's the built in trailer braking stuff. I don't want a bigger vehicle and while I would love to get a lighter caravan, they simply don't exist any more in the specs that I am looking for.
Your van is smaller, BT-50/DMax would smash it, but since you seem to love your current Ranger, I can see that it would be difficult to choose anything else.
Thank you, some good points. Will reveal new vehicle shortly
My previous vehicle was a 2013 dual cab D-Max which we set up for towing our caravan and touring (last year of owning it it had a canopy). It took nearly 2 years to come to the conclusion that for what we do, a dual cab is still the best solution for us. Upgraded to an MY24 D-Max (dual cab) with a canopy and has proven that we made the right decision sticking to a dual cab. There are just things that you can't do as easily in other cars compared to a dual cab. Looking forward to seeing what you ended up with.
Such as what things?
@@L2SFBC In our case, it was having a set up in the back (like a dual zone fridge which are large, dual battery set up, and a drawer) that is closed up and private. Yes, it gets hotter in the back of a canopy, but the convenience was greater. We have the RSI Smartcap as I didn't want to venture down the suspension upgrade path to do a proper service body (or tray/canopy) set up. Being able to access the items from the back and sides is much easier (especially for the items furthest from the back). The lower payload in the wagon makes you think harder on how to set up the back for touring. My situation would be different to others no doubt, and that is the beauty of having the choice we have in vehicles and accessories. I didn't want to spend any more than I had to to make this vehicle work for me and the dual cab was the option that allowed me to meet those needs.
@@userisalex100% agree the space and extra payload of the ute is instrumental in allowing more budget conscious choices for fitout. Which is immensely important IMO in addition to giving payload headroom.
After haveing a Disco 4 for 9 yrs we spent 12 months looking for a replacement.Didnt want a tradies ute for many reasons.One was,none were anywhere near as comfortable as a wagon.We ended up buying one of the last of the LC200s,best thing we ever did,and it suits our lifestyle.Hasn't missed a beat and ticks all the boxes for us.
I'll bet you welcome the less frequent trips to argue with a service manager.
We have slept in the back of our old LC200 many times, as comfortable as the Hilton. 😁
Very interesting analysis - looking forward to seeing your choice (though I was secretly hoping you’d pick a grenadier!)
Thanks, good summary of the differences between ute and wagon.
I too have looking to purchase this type of vehicle. The disadvantage of the ute is 1. drum brakes in 2025? 2. The expense & weight of a canopy. 3. If you ever need to carry something longer than 1.5 metres then the ute is useless while you can fold down the seats in the wagon. 4. in summer everything inside the canopy gets warm (food etc) while the wagon has a/c. So it's wagon for me.
Something I like about wagons is weight distribution front to rear tends or can be a bit better when it’s loaded up. You can load things low and more towards the centre of the vehicle. Especially good when you start “temporarily” removing seats.
Great comprehensive video as always
I prefer the station wagon. With the rear seats folded down, the loading area of the wagon is usually longer than that of the pickup truck. Since I prefer to sleep in the car, the wagon is my first choice.
Ive had both. Again the term “fit for purpose” comes to mind. My 200 and 300 series wagons are not suited to our lifestyle. The plastics internally bruise too easily and in owning horses, horse feeds, saddles and bridles take their toll. A dual cab for me allows me to carry dogs, bales of hay, fence posts etc. however in retirement a wagon for travelling including troopcarrier may be the ticket 🤔 food for thought
I've always had v6 4wd wagons till now, (Wd21, 90 and 120 series) they were used for recreation and occasional towing. But now as a daily towing a tool trailer i bought a Mux, fuel bill has gone down half from the v6 120 series.
Just gimme a fully modded SLWB Hiace 300 series.😊
- Great comparative video packed with valuable info. Thanks.
Great detailed to the point Vid👍 really enjoyed it
Glad you found it useful.
Hahaha I need to know Robert the suspense is killing me😊
Ford Ranger for sure.
I reckon he's going a Toyota wagon.
If he has any sense a 2A 109 Land Rover. I could transform my old Landy from station wagon, to troopy, to ute in 3-4 hours working on my own. The only drawback was space for storing the different bodies and roof when not in use..
@@Frombie_01 unfortunately in 2025 people don't know an oil filter from an alternator. In saying that most vehicles basic mechanicals are fairly reliable, so I don't believe a vehicle from the 60s is on the radar.
Your bottom line: Payload and space.
I'm guessing a GXL Troopcarrier wasn't on your radar, but with 1115kg payload, full 7010kg GCM, huge space, 180L fuel, no adblue, no 48V, tall tyres, auto and manual transmission options, factory diff locks F&R, 5 seats, no annoying beeps, dust proof body, proven reliability, and a million ways to fit it out including a poptop camper, it is fairly unique. Fantastic resale. Surprising fuel consumption with tall skinny tyres.
Downsides are it carries no ANCAP rating, handles like a truck, tall in carparks, limited "comfort". And its still in such demand there is still a 12 month wait to get one.
"Life is too short for boring cars" and a Troopy is popular because its not boring and a great overlanding 4wd. Mine is set up as a wagon.
Everything was on my radar!
@@L2SFBC I can see you in a Quartermaster. Not a boring car!
@@philg2468 that’s why I bought a troopy last year last of the V8 GXL. It is unbelievably better on fuel for a V8 (11.1L/100 with roof rack) endless opportunities of packing ideas.
These best 4wd ever made
Extra-cab with a canopy 😎 nice cold aircon and no old clothes smell 😂
Went though the same debate but the wagon won out because I can't fit a double cab in my driveway!
Cant wait to see a UTE Suzuki JIMNY!
Just thought of one other pro for a Ute, you can generally chuck anything in the back without worrying about damaging the interior (assuming you have a bed liner). Same can’t normally be said for a wagon. I’m thinking thinks like firewood etc. much easier in a Ute than a wagon
Great video. Thankyou. I love the flexibility of utes but I’ve always leaned towards wagons because of the fear of bending a Ute chassis when towing. I know this is mainly an issue if overloaded but I’ve read of people that have bent Ute chassis when hitting (eg) washouts too fast. Is this a thing? Value your opinion.
That is only an issue if the ute is overloaded and misused. Keep it within manufacturer limits and drive sensibly and it won't be a problem. Also don't use extended tow hitches.
Chassis strenghtening kit $295
Just spent two days in a 2025 Ford Ranger, 3.0 V6 diesel.Slovenia, Europe.Permanent 4WD, Part time 4x4 + 4 lo. A new feature. Although the impracticality of the UTE for me is a no-go. Would putt the wallet out on the sun for a Wagon with this drivetrain and engine. But no such car here.... All 1.5 three cylinder cofee grinders here for non commercial use.
A ute? Impractical?
@L2SFBC Yes, impractical.
No long cargo without sticking out somewhrre
I was sent to local Ike in the winter and rain. 2m cardbord box. Dud not fit in the cab. Did not fit in the cargo. Allmost cried of fruetration 🤣
On a half meter shorter saloon wagon - i pressed hatch button, seat folding button and box had room to spare. Grocerry getter? No.
Stuff getter ? No
Does bike fit? No
Do skies fit? No
You have to spend anothet grand or two in accesories to make it beatable.
Load capacity? I will hook a trailer for that. Only thing Ranger did well was towing 3.5t trailer ...
But which company are you choosing?
To be revealed
Moving from a wagon to a ute recently, i found when you want to increase passengers them cargo must go somewhere else. Doing a moderate amount of rock crawling, i would rather distribute that weight to the back or keep low in the bed vs placing weight on top of wagon. Also i consider general ride comfort a factor here in Utah. I'm often driving 2-4 hours on the highway before arriving to dirt. Having gear on top of the wagon is tiresome over the hours from the wind and noise. Keep aerodynamics proper above the cab translates to a comfortable drive listening to music, audiobooks, or conversation.
I only have to disregard a couple of really hard trails because of the longer wheel base but in reality I might not ever do those trails any way.
Also i really hate all of the fuel can solutions in the market place. So expensive. Just throw a couple cans in truck bed, separated from cabin, makes things much easier.
Is an upcoming talk you're giving on Wednesday week a hint?
No it is not...I've already been guest speaker there!
76 have the payload of the Ute and the angle of a wagon best of both world.
Except you then have to drive a 76
If you set up the suspension correctly and put 255/85 is a very very good 4wd and drives better than a hilux, I’ve both just my opinion. It’s true that is very easy to make it very uncomfortable to handle with 315 and a wrong suspension.
You have a trailer... What do you need a ute for.. :)
LC 79 dual cab or ineos quartermaster ?
Was on shortlist
@@L2SFBC 🫢
I think you’ll get a Ranger XLT with a 3L V6 & 10sp Auto in Sedona Orange.
Why?
17” wheels
Plenty of power and torque
Has full time 4wd capability
Meets your towing requirements
974kg payload.
Still has 3120kg of towing capacity left when at max GVM.
And most importantly, you can have it in orange 😋
I like van (MVP)
So Robert, when I said in the earlier video that you should just confirm that it’s going to be a Quartermaster and spare us the suspense… but now maybe it’s going to be Quartermaster or Grenadier? The drama!
Bruh, just buy the bakkie. Nice analysis though. I would have put safety in the middle and had another category for versatility.
So, this is "Part 2"?
Yes
is there a part three with which ..... you chose?
@TechMyLifeVideo coming
You dont hear of wagons bending like a ute, but some might be subjective
👏👏👏
The Ute doesn’t fit in my garage hence my Everest.
Maybe he will choose a Triton because it has AWD? Or maybe a higher spec Ranger. Time will tell….
Good thinking...
I have just gone through this exercise and am selling the Pajero and after 10 years of faultless, reliable service, it's time for a change. I looked at the Triton but the engine size of 2.4L put me off. So did the annoying driver monitoring system they put on these things. I'd love to have kept with Mitsi for the AWD option but ended up with a D-Max Blade.
Just went through this and ended up with a musso due to none of the wagons having enough payload. My wife wouldn't let me get a service body so i was stuck with a canopy on the tub and i hate everything about it. Why manufacturers make tailgates fold horizontal insted of folded all the way down 180 deg is the dumbest thing known to man. It makes getting anything in or out of the tub an absolute PITA and 90% of the time you need to climb in to get anything. Not having air-conditioning in the load area is a pain so the dogs can't travel in the tub.
Why cant manufacturers just make wagons with 1t payload. Why cant the government just change ADRs to actually help customers and just make all wagons have a min 1t payload and all utes have a min 1.5t payload and make GCM = GVM + towing capacity. It would solve so many of the overloading problems we see. Pretty much any wagon you see towing a large caravan that has a bullbar is over weight
The old Defender had a 1000kg payload, as does the LC76 now. INEOS tried with the Grenadier, but it got too heavy. I agree with all your points...try and get a service body, it offers better access than anything else!
@@L2SFBC I own a 2012 Puma 2.2 Defender (90k genuine on the clock) used for outback travel, and a Dmax for daily use, but upgraded suspension (Outback Armour), and for me the best is both vehicles have a manual gearbox.
Not everyone would still keep to an increased payload. It would just be an invitation to carry even more stuff. Cars are already engineered with a safety margin, hence why you don't see them just failing like one would expect. An increase in payload would also make what are expensive vehicles even more expensive. Some are reducing payloads due to the fleet market 😄 But having a vehicle with a 1t payload that is a true 1t payload in the area that it can actually carry it (in the tray) would be excellent. Can only dream.
Does your wife take the ute shopping in shopping centre car parks??
I don't have a wife but if I did, she would.
2:00 very misleading. With their back seats folded down some wagons will have more storage than a ute. That’s especially relevant if you only have a driver or driver and passenger upfront.
I made that exact point later on.
First!
Yes you were!
Sorry I identify as First😂