CarExpert Ute of the Year 2023 - Who will win?

13 utes tested. 4 Categories. 1 overall winner.

We put all the major players (and some you might not have considered) to the test in a way that only CarExpert can. Starting from Feb 15, we'll reveal the winners who have been selected on vehicle performance across four key categories, featuring winners in four-cylinder, value and overall classes. Stay tuned for the full reviews and video content, or subscribe below to become an exclusive early-access member.

Visit Every Ute Tested

Mitsubishi Triton

Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6

Ford Ranger Raptor

Nissan Navara

Isuzu D-Max

Ram 1500 Laramie

Ram 1500 TRX

Chevrolet Silverado

Mazda BT-50

Ssangyong Musso XLV

GWM Cannon

Jeep Gladiator

Toyota HiLux

Best Ute Award Categories

BEST OFF-ROAD UTE

In this award, the competing dual-cab utes need to master three stages. Traction control on rollers, a chassis rigidity test, an offset mogul test and a 45% loose rock climb in 4L.

BEST TOWING UTE

This comprehensive test used a 2500kg trailer and our 6km hill road, including a 15% long ascent grade to determine feel behind the wheel. We then also hooked up a 3kN load cell to determine fuel economy over one lap of our circular bowl, along with 0-100km/h and 0-90km/h acceleration times with the load cell attached. The winner here is the ute that mastered the hill road, was able to out-accelerate our load cell beyond 100km/h and also most economical.

BEST PERFORMANCE UTE

This test looks at overall performance. That's fuel economy over one lap of our 5km circular bowl, 0-100km/h, 100-0km/h, 1/4 mile and 80-120km/h - all key metrics that help you understand how a dual-cab ute performs when push comes to shove.

UTE OF THE YEAR

It goes without explanation, the Ute of the Year is the overall top performer across all categories, taking into consideration performance and price.