New 4x4 products buyers' guide: January 2023

Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 Mud-Terrain tyres

With all this rain we’ve been experiencing in Australia lately, it’s no surprise many people are opting to run more aggressive tyres on their four-wheel drives, such as the Geolandar M/T G003 mud-terrain tyre from Yokohama.

Yokohama tells us its Geolandar M/T G003 has been designed with extreme four-wheel driving in mind, and has been built to conquer the wild terrain we have here in Australia, and still handle well on-road so you can get to your destination and back safely and comfortably.

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With an aggressive tread pattern, chunky looking sidewall as well as mud-and-stone ejectors, there’s plenty of technology incorporated in these mud-terrain tyres. There’s also a massive range of sizes available too, with tyres available to suit rim sizes from 15-inch right up to 20-inch in diameter.

RRP: POA
Website: www.yokohama.com.au

ARB Intensity IQ LED lights

ARB’s range of Intensity driving lights has just received a new and extremely advanced addition to the line-up, with the recent announcement of its Intensity IQ LED driving lights. ARB says these IQ driving lights offer limitless control and have been developed from the ground up.

A unique four-optic design features Super Spot, Spot, Flood and Midrange beam patterns, all of which can be manually selected, so you can tailor the beam pattern and light output to suit the conditions you are driving through. If you take a closer look at the light, you can see four unique sections of LEDs, this is what makes up each of these beam-pattern combinations.

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ARB has also developed a physical switch controller that allows you to have up to eight preset configurations of lighting modes. If that’s not enough, ARB has also developed an app for your mobile phone, allowing for 1000s of lighting combinations all from one set of lights.

RRP: From $1995
Website: www.arb.com.au

XGS Remote Suspension by TJM

The top-of-the-line new release from the new XGS range, is the XGS Remote which TJM tells us is packed full of groundbreaking technology and premium materials. It features the same 52mm piston and takes things to the next level with the introduction of a remote reservoir doubling the oil-carrying capacity of the shock absorber.

Every XGS Remote shock absorber also features a patented inbuilt hydraulic bump-stop, providing a progressive feel when compressing the shock absorber at high speeds, resulting in a much better ride when fully loaded and driving over corrugations or bumps at speed.

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The final piece of the puzzle for the XGS Remote range, is the fact this shock absorber is fully adjustable and features 8-stage compression and rebound damping dials to customise the ride quality you need to suit your vehicle and the terrain you drive.

This allows you to set not only how fast your suspension compresses but also the extension rate of the shock absorber after compression. Adjustment is as easy as turning a dial, so you can really play with this system to find a setting that best works for your needs and the loads you are carrying.

RRP: From $4153 (full kit to suit LC300 supply only)
Website: https://xgs.com.au

EFS seat covers for next-gen Ranger and RAM

EFS has just expanded its range of seat covers, which now includes the new Next-Gen Ford Ranger, as well as RAM Crew Cab, Express and 1500 Laramie models. All seat covers in the EFS range are 100 per cent cotton for maximum durability, then double stitched for further strength.

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These seat covers are both UV and water resistant, which will protect your seats come resale time. EFS tells us its seat covers have been airbag tested, which is an important factor to consider with modern vehicles.

They have been designed to be an easy-to-fit product anyone can do at home, and feature an extra layer of foam padding for additional comfort while out exploring.

RRP: $350 per row
Website: www.efs4wd.com.au

Ironman 4x4 2021+ Nissan Navara rear protection tow bar

Do you want to tow with your 2021+ Nissan Navara, as well as have additional protection on the vulnerable rear quarters when off road?

Well, Ironman 4x4 has the product for you. Its rear-step tow bar to suit the Navara allows for the full towing capacity of 3500kg found in the 2021+ Navara, making it a practical addition to your four-wheel drive.

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As well as being a tow bar, it can be used as a rear step when required, and offers much more protection off road compared to a traditional tow bar, thanks to the tube side wings which wrap underneath the tub’s quarter panels.

The price listed doesn’t include installation, however Ironman 4x4 lists fitment time as just two hours, so having your Navara protected and ready to tow won’t break the bank come time to have it bolted and wired up.

RRP: From $1328
Website: www.ironman4x4.com

Bendix brake-wear sensors

It’s often the little things in life that make a huge difference, especially when you consider the number of smaller sensors and bits of technology incorporated into modern four-wheel drives.

These little things add up quickly, so it’s important to be ahead of the game. Bendix has recently updated its range of brake-wear sensors, which has evolved to more than 900-part numbers, covering the majority of modern FWDs on the market.

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Brake-wear sensors essentially trigger when a vehicle’s braking system needs inspection, such as when brake pads are worn and need replacing. As they are damaged during this process, these brake-wear sensors need to be replaced every time you change brake pads.

RRP: POA
Website: www.bendix.com.au

Off Track Wines

It’s great to see more variety of these when it comes to beers in cans for a cool beverage around the fire at the end of the day, but what about wine drinkers who don’t want the hassle of lugging around bottles or a goon sack?

Off Track Wines are a new Australian wine brand, which claims to be the first to create a wine specifically with outdoor adventure in mind. While this is a new product, the company leans on 15 years of experience, so they obviously know how to make an adult grape juice.

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There are five varieties in the range: a sparkling white wine, sparkling red wine, white wine, rose and a red, meaning there is something for everyone.

Best of all, 12 of their cans take up less space than one bottle of wine in your fridge or esky, and the cans are easily crushed for easy transport on the way out of camp.

RRP: $98.50 per carton (12x 250ml)
Website: www.offtrackwines.com.au

Oztent Air Tent AT-4

The latest release from Oztent, is their range of Air Tents which they say have been designed to be easier and quicker to set up compared to a conventional pole and peg tent.

The smallest tent in the range is the AT-4 which is ideal for smaller families up-to four people. The tent is constructed with what Oztent are calling their Rapid Air Frame Technology, and a pump is included to erect the tent.

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Standing at 1.9M high and with a footprint of 2.4m x 4.m you’d think this tent would be bulky when packed down, however Oztent says the AT-4 packs down to a size roughly the same as your pillow at home.

Reflective guy ropes are included, as well as rope storage pockets and pegging loops, and the internal bedroom can also be removed completely if you are chasing one larger space.

RRP: From $949.99
Website: www.oztent.com.au

Narva heavy-duty RV accessories

Narva has continued to expand its range of 12V plugs and connectors, with the addition of 10 new 50amp connectors.

These clever items combine two popular accessories into one single mount for ease of installation and simpler packing in smaller modern vehicles or even camper trailers and caravans.

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This means, for example, if you want one outlet to combine an Anderson Plug and two USB points, two Anderson plugs, or an Anderson Plug and a 12V CIG outlet (just for example) you can, as they have made a massive range of connectors to suit whatever your imagination can conjure up.

Each connector has been crafted from ABS housings for longevity, and as such can be fitted inside or outside of your vehicle.

RRP: POA
Website: www.narva.com.au

Ironman 4x4 quick-fold dog bed

It’s just not a camping trip without the family dog joining the crew, and with the warmer months well and truly here, it’s the perfect time to head bush for a break with the whole family.

Ironman 4x4 has recently expanded its range of camp furniture, including this awesome folding pet bed designed just for your pooch. The Ironman 4x4 Quick Fold Dog Bed includes a padded mat for the ultimate in pet comfort, which is also removeable for easy clean up.

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It folds down to a compact size for ease of transport, and is also supplied with a dust-and-water resistant carry bag.

RRP: $99.95
Website: www.ironman4x4.com

Icebergs to Iguanas

Jason Edwards, photographer for National Geographic, has just released his first book called Icebergs to Iguanas which features a wide collection of photographs collected over his 30 years of photography assignments all around the world.

You can tell it’s legit too, as this book weighs in at a hefty 3kg, and is packed full of images and stories from his adventures around the globe.

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Jason has travelled in four-wheel drives, boats, ships, rafts, planes and rickshaws to make this book happen, including stories from his journals and iconic images taken throughout his career travelling remote Australian destinations as well as exciting adventures internationally.

If you are into stunning photography and interesting travel stories, put this one on your must-read list.

RRP: $125
Website: www.jasonedwards.co

Opposite Lock Premium 300 Series bullbar

Coming soon to Opposite Lock stores near you, is their latest bullbar and range of accessories to suit the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series.

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This bullbar features driving-light mounts for securely fitting a set of driving lights, inbuilt high-lift jack points, as well as three CB aerial mounts. The Opposite Lock Premium bullbar to suit the LC300 is covered by a massive two-year warranty for peace of mind.

Opposite Lock’s Premium bullbar will be available Australia wide, so visit your nearest store or enquire online if you need a bullbar for your new 300 Series.

RRP: TBA
Website: www.oppositelock.com.au

Ironman 4x4 multi-use side camp table

This clever camp table from Ironman 4x4 features a compact design that folds flat for easy transport and storage when not in use.

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It is also convertible, with the option of running it as a hard or soft table top. Another key feature to mention, is its multi-use design that allows you to use the Ironman 4x4 Side Camp Table as a chair, footrest or a table depending on your requirements.

With an 80kg weight rating, you know it’s a quality item that also comes with a side storage pocket and a padded carry handle.

RRP: 54.95
Website: www.ironman4x4.com

Projecta switch and power point range

Electrical set-ups in our four-wheel drives, camper trailers and caravans are getting more and more advanced, and not to mention much neater compared to basic 12V systems of old.

This is why Projecta has just announced a new range of switch and power points specifically to suit the outdoor industry. Firstly, they have been designed to look good, and are available in a range of colour and outlet options. Switch plates include from one to six-gang options, as well as some switches coming pre-labelled for common applications.

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Current rating options for the switches include both 10 and 35amp options, with a locked rotor current rating of 98amp across the range. If you are planning on having a big inverter set-up in your 4x4, van or motorhome, why settle for a boring switch, when you can have something that looks the part?

RRP: POA
Website: www.projecta.com.au

TJM upper control arms

TJM has recently expanded its range of suspension systems and components, with the recent release of a new range of XGS 4WD Suspension. As part of this, TJM now has its own upper control arms to suit a wide range of popular four-wheel drives.

These upper control arms have been designed to address wheel alignment issues after fitting a suspension lift kit, and provide up to three-degrees of additional castor and camber.

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They have been engineered using the latest CAD (computer aided design) practises available, and by design they offer as much clearance as possible to avoid rubbing on rims or front suspension components.

If you have a lift kit, or are thinking about raising your 4WD, a set of upper control arms like these XGS units from TJM will complete the package perfectly.

RRP: POA
Website: www.xgs.com.au

Hardkorr portable battery box

If you are looking for a quality portable battery box, this one from Hardkorr ticks a lot of boxes. Firstly, it’s available in either a white or black finish.

Secondly, there are five Anderson plugs built into the battery box, four of which are 50amp plugs that operate as both inputs and outputs, with the last larger Anderson plug offering a 175amp output that could run a reasonably sized inverter or even use to jump-start your vehicle in case of an emergency.

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There are also two 12V outlets with 10amp fuses, a dual USB outlet and a battery monitor. Battery and mounting tray are sold separately, and it is also worth mentioning Hardkorr offers a voltage sensitive relay, and complete wiring kit as well (additional costs apply) if you want a complete 12V portable dual-battery system.

RRP: $199
Website: www.hardkorr.com.au

Ironman 4x4 Swift 1400 rooftop tent

Ironman 4x4 has again expanded its range of off-road goodies, with the announcement of a new rooftop tent, the Swift 1400.

This roof tent has been designed for larger wagons or utes fitted with alloy or steel canopies due to its large footprint of 2300mm x 1400mm. The aim of the game with this product, is to offer quick set up and pack down times, as well as a comfortable night’s sleep.

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The Swift 1400 even comes with two roof rails which are rated to hold a 50kg dynamic load, perfect for a decent-size solar panel. There is also an extruded aluminium perimeter T-slot channel which allows you to easily mount awnings or shower rooms directly to the Swift 1400.

Inside, you’ll find an insulated roof, anti-condensation mat, large windows and additional mesh vents for extra airflow.

RRP: $3499
Website: www.ironman4x4.com

Fuel FFC113 Santiago forged design

Fuel Wheels has a long-standing reputation for building both a quality product as well as a good looking one.

Fuel has announced the release of five new wheels in the Fuel Forged range, that aren’t for the faint of heart. One of the more striking designs in the Forged range, is this wheel – the Fuel FFC113 Santiago, available in both a polished or black and machined finish depending on your tastes.

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The Santiago is only available in larger wheel diameters, ranging from 20-inch right up to 26 inches, with widths ranging from 11 inches right up to 14 inches wide.

RRP: POA
Website: www.wheelprosaustralia.com.au

Terrain Tamer LandCruiser electronic secondary park brake kit

It’s common knowledge that 70 Series LandCruiser and handbrake are words that should never be used in the same sentence – the factory offering is underwhelming to say the least.

Terrain Tamer has a new product out to address this issue, their Electronic Secondary Park Brake Kit, a secondary inclusion designed to support the vehicle’s primary factory handbrake rather than replace it.

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The kit comes complete with everything you need, from calipers, wiring, controllers and all fitment components. Once fitted, activating the Electronic Secondary Park Brake is as simple as operating an in-dash switch.

Installation is a plug-and-play affair taking approximately three hours to complete, and best of all it does not require ADR engineering compliance once fitted.

RRP: $2719
Website: www.terraintamer.com.au

Clearview power boards

Are you or someone in your family struggling to get into your four-wheel drive after you lifted it and fitted larger tyres?

Clearview Power Boards have been designed to provide a safe stepping surface to gain access to the vehicle, without compromising on ground clearance. Once installed correctly, when a door is opened the Power Boards are activated and automatically lower up to 300mm for easy access.

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When the door is closed, the Power Boards automatically retract to the body of the vehicle. No drilling or new holes are required, and the motors are rated to IP68 for water and dust ingress protection.

With a hefty 300kg load capacity per step, it’s easy to see these are a well-made step that offer the best of both worlds.

RRP: From $1599
Website: www.clearviewaccessories.com.au

MaxTrax Indeflate

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to inflate or deflate your tyres on your next four-wheel drive trip?

Well, take a close look at the Indeflate by MaxTrax, designed to take physical work out of maintaining your tyre pressures.

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The Indeflate unit is manufactured in South Africa, and works by joining two or four tyres (there are two models available) together, which then allows you to adjust tyre pressure via the unique dump-valve mechanism that equalises pressure between the tyres.

This not only makes it quicker and easier to raise or lower tyre pressures, it means you can set it up and control everything standing up, rather than spending a few minutes per tyre crouched down to get this important job done.

RRP: From $215
Website: www.maxtrax.com.au

Projecta personal folding solar panel

Projecta has announced the release of a range of personal folding solar panels, designed for travellers and outdoors people who need to charge their devices on the go.

There are two models in the range, the PP10 which produces 1.6A and the larger PP15 which can produce up to 3A. Both kits are made up of monocrystalline folding solar panels with 3-in-1 charging cables.

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The PP10 is suited to direct charging of devices such as smartwatches and phones, and offers charging via a USB-A connector. The PP15 has three solar panels instead of two, as well as a 10,000mAh battery for higher current device charging, such as drones.

With an inbuilt battery, you can naturally store charge for when the sun goes down which is a neat feature.

RRP: Priced between $89 and $189
Website: www.projecta.com.au