WHEELIN' WAGONS

FORD AND TOYOTA CLAIM THESE TWO ARE THE 'OFF-ROAD READY' MODELS IN THEIR RESPECTIVE 4X4 WAGON LINEUPS. WE HIT THE DIRT TO SEE IF THEY REALLY ARE...

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These days it seems as though 4x4 wagons play second fiddle to their dual-cab ute siblings when it comes to the purchasing patterns of new-vehicle buyers in Australia. Utes like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux outsell wagons by a long shot and with the added versatility of a cargo tub on the back and the options that opens up, it's not hard to see why.

For many buyers, though, especially those with growing families, the 4x4 wagons from those same vehicle manufacturers would be much better suited to their needs. Wagons generally ride better than utes due to their different rear suspension design - they do away with leaf springs at the back in favour of multi-link coil setups - which also helps them to be better off-road vehicles thanks to more rear-axle articulation over rough terrain. The shorter wheelbase of wagons also benefits them off-road thanks to better ramp-over angle.

There are even greater advantages inside wagon bodies with more rear-seat legroom and greater rake on rear-seat backrests, resulting in more comfort. This is especially important for those with teenage kids or other taller occupants who won't find it comfortable being squeezed into the back of a ute on extended journeys.

Most 4x4 wagons also have a third-row seat that can be handy for smaller children on short trips, but these generally eat into the all-important cargo space.

Wagons have traditionally been better equipped too, with more safety, luxury and convenience features, although the popularity of utes has seen many of these features now included in the load-luggers.

TWO OF THE BEST