best new utes 2023

Australia's best new utes in 2023 were the freshly minted Ford Ranger, evergreen Toyota HiLux, and the posh-but-practical VW Amarok. They're the ones that make towing the boat look easy and the school run oddly heroic.

Ranger leads on tech and refinement, with a punchy V6 diesel option; HiLux counters with bombproof reliability and resale; Amarok brings a plush cabin and strong towing manners. Isuzu D-MAX is the sensible all-rounder with excellent safety kit and warranty, while the GWM Cannon undercuts everyone on price if you don't mind a bit of rough-edge charm. Most are rated to tow up to 3,500 kg and carry around a tonne, but ride comfort and driver tech separate the grown-ups from the pretenders. Pick based on payload/tow needs, cabin tech, and service costs—your spine and wallet will thank you.