To help you find the perfect ute, we have carefully curated a list of the top 5 best utes NZ 2023 that are truly worth considering.
In the ever-changing automotive world, one constant is our unwavering love of utes. These versatile pick-up trucks are favourite tools for both work and play, offering a winning combination of practicality and capability.
Our selection of the 5 best utes in NZ for 2023 is based on a range of factors, including popularity, design and capability. Let’s explore the cream of the crop!
Best Utes NZ 2023 #1: Ford Ranger
Ford Ranger needs little introduction. It was the top selling ute last year and was crowned the prestigious 2022 AA DRIVEN Car of the Year. And YTD in 2023 it’s once again the top selling ute.
With an extensive lineup that leaves you spoilt for choice, the Ranger offers four different engines catering to diverse needs. Whether you seek a workhorse cab-chassis or a lifestyle-oriented model, Ford has you covered.
Recent additions to the lineup have further expanded the options available at the top end of the range. There’s the luxurious Platinum and the off-road-oriented Wildtrak X.
The pointy end of the top end still features the iconic Raptor, boasting a turbo-V6 petrol engine that’s an absolute showstopper. Raptor will now be offered as a 4-cylinder diesel model too.
- Engines: 2.0 L single or biturbo diesel fours, 3.0 L turbo-diesel V6, and 3.0 L biturbo-petrol V6
- Power/Torque: Ranging from 125kW/405Nm to 292kW/583Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed or 10-speed automatic, with part-time 4WD or AWD
- Fuel Consumption: 8.3-12.8L/100km (3P-WLTP)
Best Utes NZ 2023 #2: Toyota Hilux
Toyota Hilux has earned a reputation as a reliable and functional ute, setting itself apart from flashier competitors. It continues to sell well, ranking #2 in the ute market last year and this year.
It offers an extensive range, including practical single cab, extra cab, and double cab models.
For those who need the load-carrying capabilities but are unlikely to venture off-road, Toyota’s 2WD Prerunner series is a worthy consideration.
Toyota Hilux excels in terms of value for money thanks to Toyota’s agency sales setup and the no-discount Toyota Driveaway Price policy.
Recent additions like the wide-track Hilux SR5 Cruiser and the performance-focused Hilux GR Sport demonstrate the brand’s commitment to catering to the diverse needs of Kiwi drivers.
- Engine: 2.8 L turbo diesel four
- Power/Torque: 150kW/420Nm, 150kW/500Nm, 165kW/550Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual or automatic, part-time 4WD
- Fuel Consumption: 8.2-9.4L/100km (3P-WLTP)
Best Utes NZ 2023 #3: Volkswagen Amarok
The newest contender in the ute market is the Volkswagen Amarok. With its sleek design and impressive features, the Amarok is already making its mark.
Volkswagen has put its own unique spin on this powerhouse, which is built on the same platform as the Ford Ranger. Amarok stands out with its distinct body panels, a revised interior, and a cutting-edge operating system for the dashboard and infotainment system.
The Amarok range offers four levels, all featuring double cabs. The work-oriented Life comes equipped with a single-turbo diesel borrowed from the Ranger, while the Style features a biturbo four-cylinder.
For those seeking exceptional performance, the Amarok offers two hero models – the off-road-focused Pan Americana and the luxury-focused road-centric Aventura.
- Engine: 2.0 L single-turbo diesel 4-cylinder, 2.0 L biturbo diesel 4-cylinder, 3.0 L turbo diesel V6, and 2.3 L turbo petrol 4-cylinder.
- Power/Torque: 125kW/405Nm, 154kW/500Nm, 184kW/600Nm, 222kW/452Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed or 10-speed automatic, part-time 4WD or AWD
- Fuel Consumption: 8.3-9.6L/100km (3P-WLTP)
Best Utes NZ 2023 #4: Mitsubishi Triton
Mitsubishi Triton is a quiet achiever in the ute market. Currently ranking as the third best-selling ute in the country, same as last year, the Triton has proven its worth with its exceptional value for money.
From the 2WD single cab chassis auto to the top-spec, fully loaded VRX 4WD double cab, the Triton offers affordability without compromising on quality or features. The top-spec Triton VRX is priced lower than the entry-level Ford Ranger, making it an enticing option for value-oriented buyers.
The Triton has always boasted impressive ride and handling, and the latest iteration is no different. Mitsubishi Triton delivers on its promises and exceeds expectations.
- Engine: 2.4 L turbo diesel 4-cylinder
- Power/Torque: 135kW/437Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed automatic transmission, part-time 4WD or AWD
- Fuel Consumption: 9.5-9.8L/100km (3P-WLTP)
Best Utes NZ 2023 #5: Mazda BT-50
Mazda BT-50 has recently introduced a new 1.9 litre turbo-diesel engine option for its GSX and GTX 2WD versions, saying it is now the lowest-CO2 diesel ute available in New Zealand with emissions of only 205g/km.
Although the new engine offers a bit less power than the 3.0 litre engine in the 4WD models, it compensates with impressive fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Because the new engine is lighter, payload increases to 1150kg for the GSX and 1130kg for the GTX.
- Engine: 1.9 L or 3.0 L turbo diesel 4-cylinder
- Power/Torque: 110kW/350Nm or 140kW/450Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual or automatic, part-time 4WD
- Fuel Consumption: 6.7-9.2L/100km (NEDC)
Give the team a call on 0800 275-374 to get a formal quote sorted with any options you’d like to look at, including canopies, tow bars, roof racks, etc. Or fire a message through to your account manager.
Get in touch to talk to us about how you can beat the ute tax increase on 1 July 2023…
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