Scouring the market for a new truck? These one-stop-shop 4WDs will take you from work to weekend in a cinch!

What list would be complete without the Isuzu D-MAX? It’s a ute that’s as ‘truck-like’ as they come. The D-MAX actually utilises a three-litre turbo diesel engine originating from Isuzu’s light truck range in a tough-as-nails ute body bolted atop a high-tensile steel ladder frame chassis, just like a truck! When it comes time to down tools on Friday arvo, the D-MAX doubles up as a decent toy hauler with 3.5-tonne towing and 4x4, making easy work of weekend trails and beaches.

Want that V6 grumble without the hefty price tag of a higher-grade model? The Amarok’s 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine packs a serious punch with 580Nm of torque and 190kW (200kW on overboost) of power. It’s tough enough for even the wildest of off-road tracks, powerful as all hell, and has huge heavy load-hauling ability with 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity when fitted with a genuine Volkswagen tow bar.

Designed and engineered in Melbourne, the Ford Ranger is a true-blue Aussie through and through. The 3.2-litre, five-cylinder turbo diesel engine produces a hearty 147kW of power and 470Nm of torque. Charge low-power tools with the 230V inverter, and when it’s time to put them down, take advantage of the off road specs; 232mm ground clearance, 800m wading depth, as well as a towing capacity rated at 750kg for an unbraked trailer and 3500kg for a braked trailer, making it the perfect all-rounder!

With its 2.8-litre Duramax engine, generous 500Nm of pulling force and maximum power of 147kW, it’s clear power and torque are two strengths significant to the Colorado. It shares the same suspension height – and ground clearance – as the 4x4, meaning you can access rugged worksites with a breeze. Come weekend, the six-speaker MyLink infotainment system – with steering wheel-mounted controls, 7.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and DAB+ digital radio – is sure to come in handy.

Solid as ever, the Toyota HiLux has been Australia’s top-selling vehicle for three years running. But with more built-in strength and durability than its popular SR siblings, the Rugged X marks the spot. Ever had to pull your mate out after being bogged? Say no more. Built for the outdoors, this double-cab is rugged in name and nature with solid bar work, front and rear bumpers, and sliders. Despite being named the ‘unbreakable workhorse’ (seriously, it’s got powerful off-road performance), it’s also surprisingly comfy and ergonomically sound.

When you’re ready to down tools and hit the road, test out your new toy on one of these epic off-road trips:

• Mansfield to Harrietville (VIC) – 306km
• Williamtown to Anna Bay (NSW) – 53km
• Birdsville (QLD) to Gemtree (NT) – 928km
• Cooktown to Seisia (QLD) – 848km
• Mt Dare (NT/SA border) to Timber Creek (NT) – 2191km