Cars of 2017: Top 5 trade utes

THE world of trade utes will take on a more international flavour in 2017 as brands vie for sales in a part of Australia’s new-car market that accounted for about one in every five sales in 2016. Here are WhichCar’s picks of the utes that will have a big load to carry when they arrive.

RENAULT ALASKAN France makes a rare entry into the world of utes in 2017 with a Renault that’s based on the long-running Navara as part of the Nissan-Renault alliance. As with its Japanese twin, the Alaskan will offer multiple variants in 4×2 (rear-wheel drive) and 4×4 (all-wheel drive) forms, with family-friendly dual-cab models featuring a car-like interior and a multi-link rather than leaf-sprung rear suspension for better on-road manners. Two different tray lengths will be available depending on market and there’s a one-tonne-plus payload promised. A lockable rear differential to aid off-road driving and a 3500kg braked towing capacity are also part of the package. Some engines will also be shared with the Navara, though Renault also brings a unique powerplant to the Alaskan with a 2.3-litre four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel borrowed from the brand’s Master van.

Volkswagen’s Amarok brought Germany into the ute segment, and now Mercedes-Benz aims to provide the most luxurious – with the X-Class that will debut in late 2017 (though possibly not reach Australia until early 2018). This ute is also related to the Navara as part of a Nissan-Infiniti partnership with Daimler, though there’s plenty of Benz-exclusive features. They include the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system and a “torquey” six-cylinder diesel for higher-end versions. Two concept utes showcased how Mercedes plans to offer both a luxury-focused ute and a more conventional workhorse-style variant. A five-seater interior with iPad-style display and Comand controller system will make the X-Class look similar inside to other Benzes. A 1.1-tonne payload capacity and 3500kg braked towing capacity will ensure there’s toughness to go with the smarts.

MAHINDRA PIK-UP

ISUZU D-MAX

LDV T60

2017 Top Trade Utes