best ute 2021

Asking for the best ute of 2021 is like asking which footy team’s the least stressful—none, obviously, but some were brilliantly capable.

• Ford Ranger: Pros: car-like ride, strong tech and safety; Cons: 3.2 diesel could be thirsty and pricey to service.
• Toyota HiLux: Pros: tough as nails, huge dealer network; Cons: firm ride and not the quietest on the highway.
• Isuzu D-Max: Pros: excellent safety suite, honest 3.0 diesel, great value; Cons: cabin can feel workmanlike and the ride can jiggle unladen.
• Mitsubishi Triton: Pros: sharp pricing and warranty; Cons: smaller tray and engine works hard when loaded.

Test-drive with your payload and trailer in mind, then pick the one that suits your bum, budget and back roads—no trophies handed out here.