With Australia is bracing for a wave of exciting new models, utes are expected to make up to 25% of new vehicle sales in 2025! From traditional diesel engines to cutting-edge electric options, we take a look at the best utes on their way to Australia.
Nissan Navara
Nissan’s next-generation Navara, based on the Triton platform, is set to debut in Australia in 2025. Leveraging the Mitsubishi Triton’s platform under the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, the new Navara will be longer, wider, and have a longer wheelbase, offering more passenger room and improved on-road handling due to enhanced chassis strength. It’s expected to feature the Triton’s twin-turbo 2.4-litre diesel engine (producing 150kW and 470Nm) and may include hybrid options pairing small petrol engines.
Although there were initial talks of a VR30 twin-turbo V6 petrol engine for a Nismo Navara variant, this plan has likely been shelved due to the push towards electrification and declining demand for large-capacity petrol engines. More updates will follow as the debut approaches.
Kia Tasman
Kia’s eagerly anticipated entry into the ute segment is set to launch in early 2025. Named the Tasman, based on a trademark finding, this new model will combine rugged capability with modern design and Kia’s reputation for reliability and feature-rich interiors. It aims to attract consumers looking for a balance between functionality and comfort.
Insider sources reveal that the Tasman will offer a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine with around 157kW/420Nm, a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing around 206kW/422Nm, and fully electric options with up to 410kW/800Nm. Kia is targeting a full 3500kg towing capacity and over 1100kg payload, alongside a modern interior with ample USB ports. Prices are expected to start at around $50,000 for the base model and reach up to $90,000 for the top electric version.
Chery Ute
Revived Chinese auto brand Chery is set to introduce a new contender to the Australian market. While specific details are limited, Chery’s history of offering value-oriented vehicles suggests its new ute will feature compelling attributes at an attractive price, appealing to budget-conscious consumers.
Chery is reportedly planning two different pickup models. One will be a soft-roader, similar to the Hyundai Santa Cruz, while the other will aim to compete with heavyweights like the HiLux and Ranger. Rumors indicate there may be a plug-in hybrid and a fully electric option, with the soft-roader possibly using the 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine from the Omoda 5. More details are expected soon.
Ford Ranger PHEV
Ford’s popular Ranger will receive a plug-in hybrid option in 2025, combining the Ranger’s renowned versatility and capability with the benefits of electrified propulsion. This new model aims to offer an efficient and practical solution for Australian consumers.
As the first plug-in hybrid ute of its kind in Australia, the Ranger will feature a 2.3-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor assist system. While battery size and total output specs haven’t been confirmed, the electric driving range will be around 45km, and it will deliver over 600Nm of torque with vehicle-to-load ‘Pro Power Onboard’ functionality. The braked towing capacity will remain at 3500kg, though payload figures and pricing are yet to be announced. The plug-in hybrid Ranger is expected to be the most expensive model in the lineup.
Hyundai Ute T7 & T10
Hyundai is preparing to launch two new electric utes in Australia, targeting segments above and below the mid-size dual-cab market, rather than competing directly with the Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger. Trademark applications for IONIQ T7 and IONIQ T10 indicate that these models will be EV-only. The T7 is expected to be similar in size to the Hyundai Santa Cruz or Ford Maverick, while the T10 will target full-size pickups like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Ram 1500 REV.
Hyundai’s Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA) will underpin these new electric utes, allowing for scalability across various vehicle sizes. Although Hyundai Australia has not confirmed details, a 2025 launch is possible (but unlikely), depending how much is borrowed from Kia’s utes. Expect concept vehicles debuts later this year or early next.
