Pick-up & 4x4 Pro - June 2019

PICKUPPRO

& 4X4

FREE! THE MAGAZINE FOR THE PICK-UP AND 4X4 PROFESSIONAL

TOYOTA HILUX

Does the high-spec truck live up to its name?

ROLLING CATALOGUE: Bells and whistles truck showcases ARB toys USED BUY: How to pick a second-hand VW Amarok ISUZU: Not one, but two exciting new D-Max variants announced

JUNE 2019

www.4x4andpickuppro.co.uk

PICKUPPRO

& 4X4

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE PICK-UP AND 4X4 PROFESSIONAL

THIS MONTH JUNE 2019 News 2 Isuzu D-Max Two special edition trucks break cover 4 Mitsubishi Shogun Sport gets SVP makeover 5 Polaris Two new Sportsman models revealed 5 Toyota Hilux range recieves 2019 model year updates

Products 26 Davanti The all-new Terratoura AT tyre hits the roads 27 Alpine Sound solutions for lack lustre truck audio 28 Bilstein Don’t let poor suspension dampen spirits 30 Pedders Combat Ford Ranger rear suspension stiffness 30 RSI Latest storage products brought to UK by Tuff Trek 31 National Luna Relable power supplies for UK trucks 32 ARB Better protection from less metal

Features 8 14 20

Toyota Hilux Does the top-speccer live up to its name?

VW Amarok Our guide to grabbing a used VW pick-up ARB Ranger Take in this rolling ARB showroom

Tel: 01283 553243 Email: enquiries@assignmentmedia.co.uk Web: www.pickupand4x4pro.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ pickupand4x4pro Instagram: @pickup4x4pro Editorial Supervisor Alan Kidd Editor George Dove Art Editor Samantha D’Souza Contributors Mike Trott, Paul Looe, Dan Fenn Group Advertising Manager Ian Argent Tel: 01283 553242 Advertising Manager Colin Ashworth Tel: 01283 553244 Advertising Sales Manager Gary Simpkins Tel: 01283 553245 Advertising and Exhibition Sales Executive Abigail Cooper Tel: 01283 553246 Publisher and Head of Marketing Sarah Lowe Email: sarah.lowe@assignmentmedia.co.uk To subscribe to Pickup & 4x4 Pro for FREE: just fill in the form on page 2.

Distributed by Marketforce; www.marketforce. co.uk Every effort is made to ensure the contents of Pickup & 4x4 Pro are accurate, but Assignment Media accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions nor the consequences of actions made as a result of these. When responding to any advert in Pickup & 4x4 Pro, you should make appropriate enquiries before sending money or entering into a contract. The publishers take reasonable care to ensure advertisers’ probity, but will not be liable for loss or damage incurred from responding to adverts Where a photo credit includes the note ‘CC BY 2.0’ or similar, the image is made available under that Creative Commons licence: details at www. creativecommons.org

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

Pickup & 4x4 Pro is published by Assignment Media Ltd, Repton House G11, Bretby Business Park, Ashby Road, Bretby, Derbyshire DE15 0YZ

© Assignment Media Ltd, 2019

NEWS

ISUZU DEBUT TWO NEW D-MAX MODELS AT CV SHOW The pick-up specialists wowed visitors with the Safir and the XTR

A

t this year’s CV Show Isuzu have brought us two fantastic trucks. One, a special edition AT35, and another that’s much less expected.

The latter of which being the D-Max XTR. This striking truck, which is currently a prototype, is aimed at serving clientele who use their truck both for work but also as a recreational off-roader. But how have they done this?

The D-Max XTR sits on a bespoke suspension and braking setup from specialists Pedders. This includes a new front upper arm that works in conjunction with freshly designed dampers that allow longer articulation. This

2 JUNE 2019

means that the XTR sits higher than a stock D-Max, with 250mm ground clearance, but the system doesn’t compromise the handling performance of the truck out on the road.

The brake discs have been bolstered at the front to performance numbers that champion consistent brake feel and are made to survive hard wear and combat corrosion. They’re fully vented and slotted for better heat dissipation and outright braking performance. The pads they work with are Kevlar ceramics, so you know they’re properly tough.

Both the springs and shocks are set up to provide a consistent and comfortable ride on road, and

have been tuned with the XTR’s new wheels in mind. The 17’ XTR alloys have been designed to a popular tyre size – 17×8.5” – to give XTR drivers plenty of choice if they choose a new set of tyres.

Engineered to be tough, the alloys don’t affect the D-Max’s 3.5-tonne towing capacity nor it’s 1.1-tonne payload. The XTR is also the first truck to take the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tyres as standard.

No doubt you’ll have been taken aback by the styling of the XTR makeover, but let’s break it down.

A dramatic front bumper guard, bonnet protection and headlight frames give the D-Max XTR a mean stare. Extended wheel arches add yet more attitude, finished in

black with a vibrant green insert that matches the theme around the rest of the truck. Around the back, there are spoilers on both the tailgate and the rear bumper, whilst matching door mirror covers and door handles complete the look. Like the bodykit, the side-steps are Raptor-coated. The green highlights also appear on the brake calipers and selected suspension parts to add further flashes of colour.

Inside, the XTR treatment continues, with the D-shaped suede and leather steering wheel featuring green stitching matches the grey leather, suede and durable carbon-fibre leather seating with the same accenting.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

NEWS

It’s not often that a truck with 35” tyres is the subtler of a pair, but compared to the XTR, the Safir is just that. Based on the automatic D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 double cab, Safir is happy to let the XTR take the ooh’s and have the aah’s for itself.

Finished in the beautiful Sapphire Blue Mica paint, the Safir looks calm and collected with its silver sports bar, matching Mountain Top rollover cover and a Safir branded aluminium underguard.

It also has Lazer Lights set into the front bumper and on a roofmounted light bar – which is brand new for the D-Max range. The 17” alloys are AT numbers in a new Hyper Dark diamond cut finish.

Bespoke leather seating adorns the interior, with the headrest embroidered Arctic Trucks logo in a matching sapphire cotton that matches the overstitch about the

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

rest of the interior. The Safir also features a D-shaped steering wheel and the infotainment system has been upgraded to a 9” touchscreen with a nine-speaker sound system that includes a subwoofer. The upper glovebox contains a wireless mobile charging pad, and a bumper mounted front camera makes parking and manoeuvring a doddle.

The Safir, like the XTR, is covered

by Isuzu’s 125,000 mile five year warranty, and also retains the towing and payload capacities of the work-happy D-Max. Pricing for the special trucks begins at £33,999 for the D-Max XTR and £45,000 for the Safir as a Commercial Vehicle.

The XTR is expected in showrooms later this year, whilst to act on your interest in either truck you should contact your local Isuzu dealer.

ISUZU ALSO ANNOUNCED at the CV Show that they’re to supply two specialised fleets to the RAC and energy suppliers SSE. The breakdown recovery specialists have paired with Isuzu and Strongs Plastic Products to adapt 50 D-Max models into the ultimate RAC patrol vehicle. Retaining the ability to carry the 500 parts and tools that are required by RAC mechanics, the D-Max also adds the new All-Wheels-Up recovery system, which brings flatbed recovery capability to the fleet of breakdown patrollers. There’s also space for the RAC’s EV Boost charging system for electric cars that fall flat.

Making the adaptations to the D-Max has lowered it’s towing capacity to a degree, but at a 2.8 tonne capacity the RAC Heavy Duty 4x4 Patrol Van will be able to cope with the overwhelming majority of cars and light commercial vehicles on the roads of Britain.

Strongs Plastic Products have designed and produced the new van bodyshell from a tough polymer plastic that combines

high strength with low weight – something that is important in keeping the conversion as effective as possible. It accommodates all of the RACs paraphernalia – including the AllWheels-Up tow system – and it comes with a 20-year guarantee.

The plan is that the shells will be used on several vehicles throughout their lifetime with the RAC. On the SSE fleet, engineers will use the D-Max as they provide electricity and gas to 3.7 million homes and businesses across southern England and north of the Central Belt of Scotland.

Fleet Operations and Development Manager of SSE, Gemma Trew, said: ‘Working with Isuzu we were able to get a capable, durable, reliable and personalised pick-up that is geared directly to our specific needs. The Isuzu D-Max providing the power we need in the field’.

The fact that the D-Max can serve a very different purpose on both of these fleets goes to prove further the versatility and capability of the D-Max. Given that it’s our Pick-up of the Year,

JUNE 2019

3

NEWS

MITSUBISHI GIVE SHOGUN SPORT SVP TREATMENT Conceptual off-road station wagon pack will come to market this summer

M

itsubishi has worked its SVP magic over the L200 plenty of times, but at the CV Show today they revealed a version of the pick-up truck’s station wagon counterpart.

The Shogun Sport SVP Concept accentuates the rugged DNA of the Shogun Sport, by altering its stance, tuning the suspension and adding tougher wheels and tyres.

Wrapped in the ever-popular BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres, the two-

4 JUNE 2019

tone Predator alloys are finished in black with red split rim accenting.

Above them the wheel arches have been widened to accommodate the 40mm wider track.

The suspension on which the Shogun Sport SVP rides has been tuned in collaboration with Walkinshaw Performance and Koni to get the best out of the chosen wheels and tyres, whilst maximising both on and off-road performance and competence.

High-clearance side-steps

have also been fitted, to improve practicality without encroaching on the truck’s abilities. To ensure visibility in all driving conditions, the SVP specification includes an LED light bar across the top of the roof, whilst rally-style PIAA driving lamps sit afore the front grille.

Speaking of the grille, that’s a fresh design with red and black accents, whilst elsewhere styling upgrades include a rear spoiler, Shogun Sport bonnet badging, black head and tail lamp surrounds plus bodywork decals.

Internal upholstery is unique to the SVP model, with additional side bolstering on the seats and

a pattern matching that of the exterior decals. A subtle touch that brightens the interior is the red LED mood lighting, which looks rather cool, if you ask us.

The SVP makes use of the standard 2.4-litre turbo diesel found in both the Shogun Sport and the L200, and is paired with an eightspeed automatic ‘box equipped with Super Select 4WD with lockable centre and rear diffs plus hill descent and an off-road mode.

This concept is a preview to an SVP package that will be offered on the Shogun Sport later in the summer – before which more details and pricing will be released.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

NEWS

TWO SPECIAL EDITION SPORTSMAN MODELS Polaris announce duo of special edition quadbikes for Europe

T

wo new special edition Polaris models have joined the ranks, with the introduction of the Agri Edition and Black Edition Sportsman models.

Available across Europe, the new special edition models are based upon the Sportsman 570 EPS machine, dressed up with all-new features to give you even more

reason to slip into a new Polaris.

There’s a raft of new colour options to choose from, although the Agri Edition Sportsman is finished in White Lightning and the Black Edition is polished off in (no surprises here) black.

Agri Edition features consist of new carbon fibre and metal heat shields, a set of durable steel racks located at the front and rear of the

vehicle, while the battery is now sealed. The rear shock springs are also new, giving the Agri Edition an even more rugged complex than the standard Sportsman ATV. The Black Edition puts more of an emphasis on how it looks, with black 12-inch aluminium rims to compliment the attitude exterior. New gadgets comprise of an LCD gauge, a fully-integrated

Polaris heavy-duty 2,500lb winch as standard, and the inclusion of Polaris’ Electric Braking System (EBS) for that bit of added control in tasking situations.

As mentioned, White Lightning and Black Pearl are now available as options in the Sportsman range, plus the Sportsman 570 SP, with its premium SP package is now available Radar Blue.

INVINCIBLE X 2019 UPDATE

A

n updated version of the Toyota Hilux Invincible X was unveiled at this year’s

CV Show.

Visual enhancements are centred around a deep two-tone theme – black and dark grey – and will be available exclusively in double-cab form. There’s a smoked grey chrome finish for the upper front grille surround, fog lamp bezels, door and tail handles and side mirror casings.

It’s the same for the front and rear under-runs and rear bumper corners, too. Each axle is capped with two-tone, machine-finished 18” alloys.

The cabin is black leather throughout, with leather and

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

piano black inserts broken up with chrome detailing around the instrument panel. There has been a redesign to the driver’s binnacle, which now features a Hilux animation when the ignition is switched on. A new design also sits on the key, which is now model specific, with a silhouette sketch of the truck’s front facia now taking pride of place.

As of 2019, all Hilux models, not just the Invincible X, will be available with the Toyota Safety Sense package which adds a suite of advanced safety features. These include the Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection; Adaptive Cruise Control; Road Sign Assist and Lane Departure Alert. This will come

into effect when the 2019 models go on sale in August, with more

details on the Invincible X pricing expected nearer to the time.

JUNE 2019

5

PRODUCTS

HEADLINE SPONSOR

CONSERVATION OF POWER APB import National Luna’s smart charging system for the UK market IF YOU’RE PLANNING a trip out into the wilderness and don’t intend to come back for a while, you and your 4x4 need self-sufficient during to remain self-sufficient the expedition. You’ll likely have loaded up the truck with numerous essentials, and some bigger essentials, too, like a shower, fridge and/or kitchen sink. It’s a lot of additional clobber for your 4x4 to contend with, but National Luna can ease any potential power problems.

If you’re taking overlanding seriously, you may well have incorporated a split-charge system in your battery setup, helping you power your vehicle and all the extras you’ve placed

AND

PICK-UP SHOW

SHOW PARTNERS

32

MARCH 2019

Friday 28th June 2019 COMMERCIAL USERS DAY

on board. And with the DC-DC Converter from National Luna, your dual-battery system will be in good hands.

The converter is a DC-to-DC battery charger and isolator, meaning it will charge an auxiliary battery from a vehicle alternator or solar panel up to a 25A output current. Not only that, but your vehicle’s original alternator, whether that be 12V or 24V, along with variable voltage alternators can be charged, too.

If we’re talking purely solar power, then the integrated MPPT solar regulator can churn out 375W of maximum power, although it should be noted that the regulator can support solar

panels of a higher output. You can also connect up solar panels with a maximum voltage of 42V if you so wish.

Don’t worry about your battery type, either. Whether you have an old-school lead-acid battery or you’re harnessing power from a lithium-ion unit, the converter (codenamed NLDC-25) is complete with a six-stage charging algorithm, alongside a three-stage safety analysis function, which can determine if a battery has suff ered suffered any damage or is ill-equipped to receive charging.

Another useful feature is the temperature compensation.

Seeing as you’ll be using your 4x4 in a variety of conditions, the

output voltage is optimised to the current surroundings, meaning you should never be caught short.

The NLDC-25 is waterproof and protects against the possibility of over-voltage and over-current, but over-temperature and reverse polarity, too. A remote monitor displays useful information regarding the system and the current status of your setup, and if that wasn’t enough, everything you need to set up the NLDC-25 and instructions on its operation is included in the box when purchased, too.

Pick up your DC-DC Converter now at the price of just £432.00 Inc. VAT. Available from www. expedition-equipment.com

The UK Motor Show for the 4x4 and Pick-up Market www.4x4andpickupshow.co.uk

Whether your interest is personal or professional, this is the 4×4 and pick-up show for you, with dedicated days for both trade and public. Complete show room experience from leading manufacturers and bespoke builders, allowing you to both view and test drive vehicles.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

M40

/4x4andpickupshow

EXHIBITORS INCLUDE 4X4 MANUFACTURERS | PICK-UP MANUFACTURERS | 4X4 CAR DEALERSHIPS | PICK-UP TRUCK DEALERSHIPS | HARD TOP MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALERS | SUSPENSION MANUFACTURERS / WHOLESALERS | SUSPENSION BUSHES | WHEEL MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALERS | TYRE MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALERS | TOOLS | LIGHTING | UNDERBODY PROTECTION | WINCHES | BRAKES | OFF ROAD EQUIPMENT | TOWING AND TRAILER MANUFACTURERS | ONBOARD STORAGE SOLUTIONS | ROOF RACKS | ROLL CAGES | SEATS AND TRIM UPGRADES | PERFORMANCE EQUIPMENT | SOUND PROOFING | ENGINE OILS AND LUBRICANTS | SERVICING | GARAGE UPGRADES | CUSTOM VEHICLE BUILDERS | OVERLAND EQUIPMENT | COMMERCIAL AND PERSONAL INSURANCE

FREE ENTRY

PUBLIC DAY

COVENTRY

A45

A4114 Burton Green Baighton

A46

A4177

Bubbenhall Kenilworth

Organised by the Publishers of

Blackworth

Hunningham

A46 Royal Leamington Sa

M40

M40

National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre, Warwickshire, CV8 2LG 10am to 4pm

Saturday 29th June 2019 Register your details at www.4x4andpickupshow.co.uk to receive your tickets and organisers of

the

PICKUP PRO GREAT H IS & 4X4

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE PICK-UP & 4X4 PROFESSIONAL

BRIT VER SHOW LAND RO

ON TEST

TOYOTA HILUX INVINCIBLE X AUTO

For years the Hilux has been seen as the toughest truck on and off the roads, but despite the name the Invincible X is the plushest version. Has it gone soft?

Words: George Dove Pictures: Alan Kidd

ON TEST

O

ften when a particular vehicle is at the forefront of its class, its name will, by association, transcend the field and become a collective noun for the unwise. A prime example of this often occurs on hit BBC drama Death In Paradise, where the Honorary Police Department drive a Land Rover Defender 110, but everyone calls it a Jeep.

To an extent, this has happened with the Toyota Hilux, too. Not long ago, I heard a man in a pub talking about a pick-up he’d seen on the road, he referred to it as ‘a Hilux, or something’. The fact that, despite many of them having their names stamped across the tailgate, the only truck he could name was the Hilux, is a clue to the sort of reputation the truck has built for itself.

That is somewhat reflected in the top-spec model, the Invincible X. This model is an enhancement of the trim which came about shortly after the truck proved itself indestructible on Top Gear.

The Invincible setup was always a high-end version of the tough Toyota workhorse anyway, but the addition of the X only extends that ethos further.

JUNE 2019

9

ON TEST

CABIN AND PRACTICALITY

Like many high-spec pick-up trucks, the Invincible X doesn’t stray too far from the rest of the Hilux family with regards to design. Instead, the extra layer of luxury comes from the highergrade materials – i.e. the leather found on the seats and steering wheel – and through the greater depth of equipment fitted. On this front the Invincible X is much like the Invincible – it offers the same

level of equipment but features chromed edging to break up the otherwise black-on-black interior.

As standard you get the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system, which isn’t a bad system but isn’t the quickest to react to inputs. It plays out through a six-speaker sound system with DAB, plus there’s also a USB port and Bluetooth connectivity. The central armrest opens up to reveal a neat storage section, and the lockable glovebox is cooled – gotta keep that service book from

ON TEST The 2.4-litre unit in the Hilux has come under some critiscism in the past. It isn’t the most characterful unit in the sector, and at 148bhp it isn’t the most powerful either. But it has torque where it matters, and whilst is isn’t quick, it has more usability than you might think. It really is a utilitarian unit, but with 295lbf.ft available from 1,600rpm this adds real world usability.

getting clammy.

There are a lot of plush fittings and accessories that make the Hilux interior feel akin to that of an SUV rather than a fourwheeled tool. Seating is leather and heated in the front, plus the tinted rear windows add to the feeling that this truck is more comfortable in the high street than the Highlands, but it does come with all of the off-roading and towing assists that less glam Hiluxes do.

Seating in the rear does tip up, so the space can be occupied by cargo should there be a lack of passengers, and the tailgate also locks too – although without a canopy fitted this isn’t quite the security feature that it sounds.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

DRIVING

Out on the road, the Hilux rides well and similarly to the cabin it hides the fact that it’s really a commercial haunt. The ride is quite firm, which means over bumps and pot holes you’re shook to an extent, while it also exposes the tensed load-awaiting rear setup. Through corners the body control is impressive for a truck and wallows about much less than some of its rivals.

The steering doesn’t offer too much feel, but isn’t reminiscent of old one-tonners thanks to the power steering, whilst it refrains from falling into the trap of being feather light like many competitors. All of this translates into an overall feeling of

composure, with a ride that is best described as poised rather than relaxing – although uncomfortable it is not.

Road noise is limited and there is no intrusion from the tyres that’s worthy of note. On the road, the Hilux is best on a cruise. Flick on cruise control, perhaps even your heated seat if it’s chilly, turn the radio up and you could be driving something that has never once been considered as a workhorse.

The 2.4-litre D-4D turbo diesel unit doesn’t offer too much power at 148bhp, but there’s plenty of grunt in there that’s readily available low in the rev range, meaning that it’s potent enough to make progress in and about town and is well-suited to either towing or off-roading. It’s paired

with a six-speed auto ‘box which when treated kindly doesn’t put a foot wrong. What does unstick it, however, is pushing the drive selector button and putting the truck into Power mode (which feels like it carries much more gravitas in the Hilux than in a Prius). Whilst you do get revs more freely, the gearbox seems to hesitate before setting them to action. Getting looser with the revs does make the engine feel more powerful, but the result doesn’t tally up to the noise, so you’re better off just sticking in normal mode to make the required progress. Eco mode, however, makes more sense and tailors the performance in line with what you’d expect – more conservative with revs and more sedated progress.

JUNE 2019

11

ON TEST VERDICT

As a high-spec truck, the Invincible X isn’t as suited to a life on the tools as an entry Active model would be. Although, that’s only down to the financial side of things. The Invincible X is the most capable Hilux out of them all. It’ll match any truck for off-road ability and features the highest level of standard kit. Because of this, it’s as adept in the day-to-day situations as it is lugging several thousand kilograms of cargo or traversing ruts and rocks.

Put to use as a commuter the Hilux really is very comfortable.

Its seats are plush and supportive, the steering wheel controls are mounted logically and visibility is very good, which in turn adds peace of mind in and around town. It’s still big, but it comes with a reversing camera and Toyota Safety Sense (which the non-X variant doesn’t), meaning that it has Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning and Road Sign Assist features. You’re

12

JUNE 2019

also supported with Emergency Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist, plus you’ll appreciate Trailer Sway Control when towing freight.

Then comes the price – which for a top-spec vehicle is a pleasant surprise. On the road, the Hilux Invincible X comes in a touch over £31,000 without any options (as a CV) – even the smart white paint isn’t a charged extra.

As a package, the Hilux is always a solid bet, and the Invincible X is no different. It’s also not extortionate on the current market for what is a premium truck. It’s also one of the betterlooking trucks out there which the

darkened X treatment enhances.

However, whilst the truck is very competent as an all-rounder it doesn’t have a standout USP, which leaves a slight feeling that it’s trading off its nameplate. But

that’s nothing to be scoffed at – as stated at the top, the Hilux name is one of the strongest and longest running in the pick-up world.

And it’s safe to say that this truck doesn’t tarnish it.

AT A GLANCE Base price £31,056 + VAT Fuel consumption 36.2mpg combined (WLTP) Emissions 189g/km Payload 1,115kg Braked trailer 3,500kg Gross vehicle weight 3,210kg Service interval 12 months / 10,000 miles Warranty 60 months /100,000 miles

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

BUYING USED

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK: 2011-PRESENT The truck from Wolfsburg pairs a car-like driving experience, impressive offroad ability and, in the right form, is a well-adjusted work truck, too WORDS: GEORGE DOVE

BUYING USED

BUYING USED

W

hen Volkswagen launched the Amarok back in 2011, it was a truck that arrived to praise and predicted sales success. Plainly, those claims were on the money as it’s proven to be a solid truck that, with a few tweaks along the way, has continued to hold its own in the sector.

These additions included an overhaul of the UK engine range, the swift inclusion of an automatic gearbox and numerous lavish special editions. Many of these made the Amarok a very popular choice at the forefront of the lifestyle pick-up market, which as a result means there are plenty of possible workers willing and waiting on the second-hand market

INTERIOR

The Amarok was, and is, a smart looking vehicle from the outside, while it’s more of the same once you step inside the cabin. As you’d expect with a Vee Dub, the materials used – even in the entry Startline trim – sit closer to the premium lifestyle end of the market than the workaday trojans.

In this entry spec, you get well-formed cloth-doused seats that are comfortable and better suited to take muck than the Vienna leather pews in the rangetopping Highline.

The dash is less busy than some of the contemporary trucks that were on the market at the time of launch and VW were fairly generous with kit. You’ll find a CD radio, electric windows, Bluetooth connectivity and remote central locking. Upgrading to Trendline adds A-pillar grab handles, a leather steering wheel and gaiters for the handbrake and gear lever, storage compartments under the front seats and a trio of 12-volt sockets.

Top-spec models at launch gained heated front seats, chrome trimmings here and there throughout the interior, plus sidebars and parking sensors as standard. All interiors were nice places to be and very car-like for the pick-up sector at that time – but the real arguments for the different trim levels arise outside of the cabin.

DRIVING

Right from launch, the Amarok was a very good truck to drive.

It felt light and rather carlike, although it displayed the same fidgety rear-end issues that are

16

JUNE 2019

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

BUYING USED common in most trucks – particularly before the 2017 updates. But, that’s par for the course, really, and besides that the Amarok has positively light steering (this can feel distant at times, though), a comfortable ride at a cruise and made do without what has arguably become the truck’s best feature: the range of 3.0-litre V6 engines that took over with its mid-life update.

At launch, the truck was powered by a duo of 2.0-litre BiTDI units taken from the VW vans of the time. They came in 122 or 164bhp versions with torque available low in the rev range. Eyebrows were raised when the truck was powered by a mere 2.0-litre unit, but it wasn’t all bad. The less powerful output was the first truck engine to dip under the 200g/ km barrier in terms of carbon emissions, whilst the unit with more grunt wasn’t rapid off the line but was more than useable at speed with torque readily available. Very early models weren’t afforded an automatic gearbox, and those manual transmissions in early models were somewhat notchy. It only took a year for the eight-speed ZF gearbox to join the line-up, and by all accounts it suited – and still suits – the Amarok very well.

But the biggest defining factor in the early models was whether the Amarok had the part-time four-wheel drive system that was standard on both Startline and Trendline models, or the permanent 4MOTION option that came on top-spec models out of the box. You could upgrade to the permanent system and that’s what we recommend you look out for if you’ll need to do lots of off-road work. The Amarok isn’t at the top of league tables with its load-lugging capacities, but the 4MOTION model beats the part-time models with a towing capacity of 2,800 to 2,690kg, although it does lower the payload from 1,079kg to just 750kg. What the setup really brought to the table, though, was the overtly commendable off-road ability by pick-up truck standards.

Not much changed after the updates for the 2017 model year, with the ride and off-road ability both still favourable. But what turned the Amarok into one of the

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

The 2.0-litre TDI that the Amarok had from launch (above) was a solid unit, but borrowed from VWs vans it had to be worked hard. The new V6 powertrains that came in 2017 (below) changed the game – they’re ready and waiting with torque, which is no bad thing in a pick-up.

JUNE 2019

17

BUYING USED

best trucks you can buy was the engine bay revolution.

Even the entry 161bhp, 332lbf. ft 3.0-litre V6 is a fine engine, offering power and pull that feel above and beyond the figures.

But the 254bhp range-topper, added in 2018, is a world-bender in terms of power and on-road speed – mainly thanks to 428lbf.ft of torque – whilst the middleman

18

JUNE 2019

with 201bhp and 369lbf.ft sits amicably between the two. When the V6s were first introduced, the range-topper was a 221bhp unit which too was remarkable – just less so than the unit that replaced it. After the update, all V6s can tow the magic three-tonne figure, with the biggest unit capable of 100kg more. All have payloads of over a tonne, too. Unfortunately, if

a manual transmission is a must in your case, then the 254 is out – but don’t be completely shut off to the idea of an auto, because the ‘box works seamlessly with the Amarok both on and off-road.

RELIABILITY

Although not as nice as the updated versions, it turns out that

the early manual gearboxes were slightly problematic, too. It’s no major issue, but there were reports of some early Amarok owners struggling to select reverse gear.

However, this is easy enough to check when taking a truck for a test drive.

Other than that, the only issues you’ll find with the Amarok are ones that’ll crop up on every pick-up

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

BUYING USED

if you don’t keep an eye them.

Pay attention to the condition of the cambelt, as this will have a shorter life if the truck has lived and worked in dusty, dirty conditions.

Replacement prices can be over £1,000, so it’s worth paying particular attention to how this feels on a test drive. Check whether the CV joints are worn, too, as they’ll cost you £120 a piece and if the truck has seen plenty of off-road action, this is one area to make a priority for checking.

When it comes to servicing, you’ll be looking at around £200 for a major service, which you’ll need to do every two years or 24,855 miles, although if you’re putting the truck through the wringer then an annual visit wouldn’t be unwise at all.

VERDICT

On the whole, the Amarok feels

like a VW rather than a run-of-themill commercial vehicle. But, if you choose the right option then you’ll categorically have the best of both. Whether you look for an early truck – which you could pick up with high mileage for around £10,000 – or a facelifted model for which, regardless of mileage, you’re looking at a minimum of double that, you’ll have a fantastic truck.

With 2.0-litre four-pot models you’ll have to prioritise either off-road ability or hauling abilities before you choose which truck.

For less heavy lifting and more rock-climbing, go for a 4MOTION model – you’ll probably be surprised at what the stock truck can do. For the transverse, you’ll need the part-time system so you don’t chop down on your payload – but remember that the towing capacity will be a little less.

If you’re able to spend more

on a truck, then the V6 models are definitely the ones to go for.

They’ve all got capacities that’re bang up there and they’re lovely to drive, too. If you can resist the allure of the whopping 254bhp unit, then we’d recommend the entry engine as it’s more economical and is still a huge improvement on the initial 2.0-litre engines.

The Amarok has had a premium cache ever since launch, and that means that you’ll find plenty of well-equipped models out on the second-hand market. There are significantly more models from before the update, but that’s to be expected, given that the truck was only refreshed in 2017.

Being a truck that, despite the physical credentials, has the lifestyle punter in mind, you’ll also find a plethora of special editions on the market. Often, these are Highline-

derived models that are usually paired with the most powerful V6s, so aren’t cheap.

For an all-round work truck, we’d suggest that whilst it’s a lot for a used vehicle, you’d struggle to go wrong with any V6 example.

They’ve not been out too long and, on the whole, haven’t been subjected to as hard a life as the majority of used trucks. If you hunt long enough, you should be able to find an entry or mid-range engine with very low mileage for around £25k – that’s a lot, but we’d recommend it over numerous brand-new trucks. For many, though, that’s simply too much money for a second-hand truck. In which case, the pick of the pre-facelift trucks, in our eyes, would be a 164bhp 2.0-litre with the selectable four-wheel drive – a truck you can pick-up for £12,500 with just 65,000 miles on the clock.

THE FIGURES Target price (high mileage) £10,000/£23,000 Target price (low mileage) £12,500/£25,000 Fuel consumption 32.5-37.2mpg (combined) Power 122-254bhp Torque 332-428lbf.ft Payload 750-1,079kg Braked trailer 2,690-3,000kg

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

JUNE 2019

19

FEATURES

WHOLE RANGER

There are some brands in the off-roading world that just have legendary status and there's a story behind each of them. Seeing as two of those names have come together, we thought we'd take a look at their awesome rolling Ranger repertoire Words and pictures: Alan Kidd

20

JUNE 2019

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

FEATURES

H

ere are two things you can be pretty sure of.

One is that if you own a Land Rover, there are bits on it that came from Britpart.

The second is that if you own anything else, there aren’t.

Based in Craven Arms, the company has been going for some 35 years – during which time it has grown into a giant operation distributing parts and accessories via a global network of more than 1000 retailers. Big, it is.

And that’s all been based solely on servicing the Land Rover market. Until now. Because while Britpart continues to expand based on its core market (you wouldn’t believe the scale of the building work the company has got going on at the moment), it has recently branched out in a very significant way. Because if you’re looking to build a high-end off-road vehicle in the UK, Britpart is now importing the full range of products from Australian 4x4 legend ARB. ARB’s origins go back even further than Britpart’s, to a trip Tony Brown took through the Outback in a Land Rover of his own. Actually (anoraks at the ready), make that a Land-Rover of his own, as it was a Series I. It broke a lot, because it wasn’t prepared for the business of carrying a heavy load of expedition kit over endless rock-hard corrugated roads in searing temperatures… so he resolved to start building accessories for it that would be able to cope.

As it turned out, lots of other 4x4 owners in Australia were having the same problems. The difference was that they didn’t go home and do something about it.

Actually, that’s not true, they did

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

Made from pressed and folded 3mm steel, ARB’s underbody protection plates are designed to shield the vehicle’s steering, sump, gearbox and transfer case from impacts. They help keep it moving off-road, too, by providing a smooth surface capable of sliding over obstacles – particularly useful on long-wheelbase vehicles like double-cabs. Secured to the chassis, the plates are removable for servicing, but that’s about all they’ll shift for

do something about it – they went to Tony Brown and bought his accessories from him.

And so the name (well, the initials) of Anthony Ronald Brown became part of off-roading folklore. Today, ARB exports to more than 100 countries – and, while we don’t want this to sound like a load of old advertising guff, it has a reputation for quality that’s second to none. Every manufacturer of every product in the world will shout about how good its products and customer service are, and to back them up there are entire fake-it factories full of people employed to write phony testimonials for those oh-so-trustworthy online review sites (oh yes there are). But just try finding someone (a real person, in a real conversation) with anything bad to say about ARB kit. They might grumble about how much it costs, but then they’ll follow that

up by shrugging their shoulders and saying something like ‘spend it once, spend it right, I suppose.’

And yes, ARB kit is at the top end.

You get what you pay for, though – which in this case means you’re paying for equipment designed to deal with the worst Australia can throw at it. And Australia can throw worse at it than you can.

At present, Britpart has a network of around 100 dealers supplying ARB products. Some are newcomers, while others are existing Land Rover customers who have joined the company in looking to open up new markets.

The range it offers is basically everything ARB makes, for vehicles including Land Rovers (obviously), Patrols, Jeeps, Landcruisers and, as you’ll have figured out from the pictures on these pages, the double-cab pick-ups that have come to dominate the built-fromnew corner of the 4x4 market.

It’s still not been long since seeing a Hilux, Ranger or L200 modded up for off-road action was quite the rarity. It’s also not been long since people in Britain would tell you that the big problem with building one of these vehicles was that you can’t get the accessories with which to do it.

Accessories for off-road pickup builds are no longer an impossibility to come by. There’s some very good kit available, much of it indeed made by ARB. What Britpart is adding to this is a supply line that’s widespread, efficient and, crucially, well stocked. Many of us know the frustration of trying to order parts for vehicles and being told either that they’ll take three months to arrive or that while there is one in the UK, it’s going to cost more than your truck is worth.

As it is, to build a Ranger – even a top-option Wildtrak like this one

Old Man Emu is ARB’s suspension brand, and its BP-51 remote-reservoir dampers are the latest addition to the very top of its range. These are adjustable for compression and rebound damping, allowing the vehicle to be set up for road, trail or offroad driving while carrying whatever weight might be on board. The springs give the Ranger a 40-50mm lift; ARB says it supplies suspension enhancements rather than lift kits, as it wants to keep well away from the boisterous end of the market

JUNE 2019

21

FEATURES

ARB offers a range of canopies with a wide variety of features including central locking, interior lighting and opening side windows. They’re made from tough ABS plastic rather than GRP, which when fitted with internal bracing can carry up to 100kg on the move – and far more when static. Thus the roof rack, tent and awning you see here present no problems, even when they’re augmented by a couple of sleeping beauties, as the weight is channeled down to the sides of the pick-up bed

22

JUNE 2019

– into a replica of Britpart’s demo truck, you’d do at least as much again on accessories as you spent on the vehicle itself. But what you’d end up with is easily more than twice the vehicle – if an all-singing, all-dancing expedition machine is what you want, you’re looking at it.

Or you could get a mid-range Audi Q7 or BMW X5 for the same sort of money, so long as you didn’t want to add too many options.

The difference is that in five or ten years’ time, you’ll still have an all-singing, all-dancing expedition truck, and if you’ve looked after it it’ll still be worth a good chunk of money. Not that you’ll ever want to sell it. The premium SUV that’s sitting on your drive looking dated and now worth a fifth of what you paid for it, though…

Anyway, that’s not really the point. The point is that you’re

unlikely to want the full works as seen on this Ranger. Customers will pick and choose depending on what they intend to do with their vehicle – if you want a green laning wagon, for example, you might go for the suspension, bumpers, snorkel and underbody protection, but the roof rack, tent and awning would be a terrible idea. Whether you’d feel you need the full-house remote-reservoir shocks this particular Ranger has is open to question, too (though if you can stretch for them, you’re unlikely to regret doing so), but you can still get the same lift with one of ARB’s more traditional systems.

On that subject, ARB prefers to describe its spring and shock packages as suspension enhancements rather than lift kits.

Yes, they add height, but not to the extent that they remove drivability

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

FEATURES

or start lining all the vehicle’s drivetrain components up against the wall to be blown away one by one. A little more height goes a long way, and a lot more height can pretty much stop you going any way at all… we say this from bitter experience.

Something else we’d say from experience is that if you plan to use a pick-up as an off-roader, you’ll need a locking rear diff. Most have these available either standard or as factory accessories, but ARB’s famous Air-Locker is the gold standard in this area, with a level of robustness that means it’ll cope with much bigger, more aggressive tyres. Britpart’s Ranger doesn’t actually have one (you can get them for the front, too, if you really want to go for it), but ours would.

Whether or not pick-ups are your bag, then, this demo truck represents something exciting in the world of high-end prep.

Britpart told us that its Land Rover lines continue to move as well as ever, and that includes off-road equipment for Defenders – but with more and more people turning their back on Solihull’s old faithful and opening their minds to pick-ups and other foreign-built 4x4s instead, the UK is going to be seeing a lot more ARB kit getting used in the modding game. It’s part of a move upmarket for what off-roading stands for in this country – and one which means high-end builds are set to become the norm to a greater than ever degree.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

ARB’s drawer system is an absolute work of art. The fridge up top is mounted on its own sliding frame, there’s a compartment to the right containing the hardware for a twin-battery set-up and to the left is an on-board air system with outlets for running air tools and regulating the pressure in your tyres. The same source would power the company’s famous Air-Lockers, though this Ranger doesn’t have one of these in either of its axles.

Operating the system can be done via ARB’s Linx interface, which turns your phone into a multi-purpose control and data centre

JUNE 2019

23

TRAINING

LEARN FROM THE BEST With versatile instructors and fantastic facilities, why wouldn't you?

LIKE MANY THINGS, when it comes to learning how to handle not just yourself, but a vehicle offroad, there are numerous different things you have to learn and remember. But how's best to learn the ropes?

‘The basic training is really just an intro into off-roading,’ says Vince Murray, who leads on Yorkshire Outdoors’ focussed off-road driver training program. ‘It’s teaching about general awareness, a bit on the technology involved and covering basic obstacles.’

The logic behing this is that the drivers will not only be experiencing driving in tough and challenging conditions, but understanding how they are. This will all take place while being monitored by Vince, who keeps stock of the pupil’s confidence and ability as things progress so he can adjust the angle of his delivery to suit each and every individual that gets behind the wheel.

‘One of the key things to learn is that you have to work out whether A the vehicle can do it, and B if you can do it,’ explains Vince. ‘This is something that you learn through practice and understanding that I try to pass on.’

From an introductory day, the

24

JUNE 2019

training offered by Yorkshire Outdoors progresses through four levels – each of them lasting a day longer than the last – giving more time for the instructor’s expertise to be absorbed and put into practice out on the wonderful course, whilst the pupil receives an in-house qualification when they've finished the syllabus.

Levels one to four will see the pupils undergo increasingly difficult and technically demanding exercises, where they have to apply the techniques and theories they've picked up so far. This starts out with climbing the ups and downs of the steep site at Yorkshire Outdoors, whilst coming to terms with how to cross the tricky terrain whilst remaining stable and safe.

Then is another day of practice, adding in how to identify and avoid troublesome ground whilst being briefed on the issues of night driving and adverse weather conditions.

‘The first two days are very similar,’ explains Vince. ‘What is key is that you become more used to it and more natural, which is only a good thing. Every time I take someone out there I become a better instructor, and each time you drive off-road you become a better off-road driver.

‘The Level 3 Advanced

Qualification is much more in depth, as pupils are more comfortable by this point.

This course is aimed more at companies and professionals who need, rather than want, to drive off-road. So here we cover every aspect of cross-country driving, which involves not just the truck itself but winching and recovery techniques and how to handle yourself with a trailer attached. We also cover vehicle maintenance and safety inspections.’

Many of these courses will be undertaken by those working in forestry or agriculture, so the package offered by Yorkshire Outdoors also includes a refresher course for drivers, redeemable at six or twelve months – whichever the company’s safety policy states.

If that still isn’t enough, the fourth and final stage offered by Vince includes another full day on-site, recapping and really locking in everything you’ve learned – plus an additional half-day spent training a new driver to gain your own full instructor status.

‘Once someone has completed the Level 4 training the idea is that I’ve taught them everything I know,’ states Vince. ‘They won’t be as experienced, obviously, but

they’ve had full LANTRA approved training and they’re well set to start building that experience.’

For companies that require widespread training for multiple colleagues, the team at Yorkshire Outdoors also offer Large Group Training. Be it for a large fleet of servicers or required for a full team before securing an all-important contract, they are equipped with a fleet of knowledgeable and experienced training staff.

For those of you who are already schooled in the art of off-road driving, the recreational activities offered at Yorkshire Outdoors pose an ideal company day out. Aside from their Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler – which you can take for a spin – they also offer the chance to get down and dirty on Segways or quad bikes and also try your hand at clay pigeon shooting and archery.

‘We aim to offer an excellent experience, whatever service the customer wants,’ shares Richard Fawcett, founder and Managing Director of Yorkshire Outdoors.

‘Whether it’s a corporate booking or a stag do. Our customers are just as important to us at three in the afternoon as they are at nine in the morning.’

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

PRODUCTS

OUT INTO THE WILD

Davanti’s Terratoura has broken cover, and is now out in the real world ACROSS THE GLOBE, 4x4 and pickup drivers have started fitting the all-new Terratoura all-terrain tyre to both leisure and commercial vehicles.

Davanti’s first foray into the offroad market has already been fitted from Aberystwyth in Wales to Sofia in Bulgaria, Swadlincote in the Midlands to Skopje in Macedonia and Middlesbrough in the North East to Cape Town in South Africa.

‘A number of early customers have also been using pickups in a commercial capacity,’ said Davanti General Manager Peter Cross. ‘If your business takes you off-road or onto rough terrain like a building site, you want a tough tyre with premium performance, but you also need to balance that with the cost. Terratoura means that you no longer have to choose between cost and performance.’

Since it went on sale in March intrigued off-roaders have been keen to try out Terratoura for themselves on their own vehicles.

‘The initial response to Terratoura has been fantastic. We knew we

26

JUNE 2019

were bringing a tyre to market that was more than a match for the best AT tyres out there thanks to the years of research, development and testing but you never really know how a new product will be received.

‘It is early days and we are keen to see what the first batch of customers think of Terratoura. The fact that already, pickup and 4x4 drivers have been willing to depart from their existing brands to purchase and fit

Terratoura to their vehicles is a huge positive for us in a market sector where brand is so important.’

The 50/50 off-road-on-road all-terrain tyre has been delivering impressive results in Davanti’s testing, where it has equalled or outperformed some of the biggest names in the sector. But the true test of Terratoura will be what 4x4 enthusiasts and pickup drivers think.

‘Terratoura is out in the wild now,’ said Peter. ‘We have spent a lot of

time and effort developing it to be one of the best all-terrain tyres available but of course, we would say that.

‘In truth we firmly believe that the tyre speaks for itself. That is why we are keen for drivers to try it and give us their feedback.

What we think of Terratoura is not important. What drivers think of its performance, that is what counts.’

To learn more about Davanti Tyres, visit www.davanti-tyres.com.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

PRODUCTS

A SOUND INVESTMENT

Working trucks are many, many things – and often loud is one of them

IN RECENT TIMES, pick-ups have developed from agricultural workhorses to lifestyle show steeds.

Interiors are now blessed with leather, gadgets and gizmos fill the dash and steering wheel, while you now get touchscreens the size of small TVs at the heart of operations.

However, scratch beneath the luxury and you’ll still find a vehicle with a solid work ethic ready and willing to put in a shift, often to the tune of a diesel that’s far less sophisticated than it ought to be.

Frustrating it can be, particularly if you’re trying to sing along to your favourite karaoke number.

Turning up the speakers till they’re bursting out of their casings is

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

one way to get over the problem, but that’s not going to work in the long-term.

Alpine, however, are here to help – specifically with their PWD-X5.

‘What on Earth is the PWD-X5?’ you’re no doubt asking. Let us enlighten you.

Packaged into one nifty box, you’ll find a four-channel amplifier and digital sound processor, all with the bonus of a subwoofer. The result is the four door-mounted speakers act as an amplifier whilst assisting as an ultra-flat active subwoofer. It’s a small unit, but offers big gains in bass boost and all for one easy installation.

The PWD-X5 device connects to

standard factory units as well as aftermarket radios via RCA inputs, and a wired remote control is on hand to supervise operations, or alternatively, you can use your smartphone via an app.

And don’t think all of a sudden your nice interior is going to be undone by a swarm of wires. The kit possesses a main fuse, power cables of 4.5 metres and all the necessary brackets you need for an easy installation.

Measuring in at 24.5x8x35cm, the PWD-X5 boasts potent power,

delivering 50 watts to each of the door speakers, whilst the inbuilt subwoofer is a 240-watt strong unit at its peak.

If that wasn’t enough, you can connect it to your radio, CD player or your smartphone via Bluetooth, so you don’t have to make any allowances for the way you listen to your tunes.

To transform the sound system in your truck search PWD-X5 on the Alpine website (alpine.co.uk) or drop in and visit your local Alpine stockist.

JUNE 2019

27

PRODUCTS

ALWAYS IN CONTROL

They made their name on the track, but Bilstein can help with much more IT’S WELL KNOWN, throughout the off-road fraternity that if you want to get the maximum potential from your vehicle, the right choice of dampers is absolutely critical. For most, the chief concern is just how much travel they’ve got.

But there’s more to it than just being able to match the additional height of your new springs. When the terrain closes in, your shocks’ performance begins to matter more and more – and, no small matter, staying in the driving seat is a big deal when you’re trusting a vehicle with lifted suspension and oversized tyres to get you home safely afterwards, too.

In the universe of suspension, Bilstein is a name you’re likely to have come across before – if not necessarily from the world of offroading. But the German company has been a pioneer in damping technology for more than 50 years, and during that time it has come to offer an assortment of options for the most prevalent off-road vehicles

28

JUNE 2019

– so it’s well placed to offer guidance on what really matters once your pursuit for extra inches is at an end.

‘One of the most important considerations when choosing uprated suspension for an off-road vehicle is where you plan on using it,’ says Bilstein. ‘Articulation really is key. It’s essential to ensure that the wheel (and therefore the tyre, your only source of traction) remains in contact with the ground as much as possible, and your choice of damper plays a huge role in this.

‘Too soft and the damper will “bottom out” when placed under compression (the “bump” stroke), leading to a loss of control. Too firm, and the damper will be unable to deal effectively with smaller bumps.

‘The flip-side of the above is “rebound,” the term used when discussing the rate of damper extension when no longer under full load. This is dictated by the relationship between the damper and the spring and as such is harder to fine tune. The ideal set-up is the

one that’s best able to control the release of built-up energy created by the initial “bump” stroke. This release of energy needs to be done in such a way so as to not impact the relationship between the tyre and the wheel.’

In most applications, Bilstein’s dampers have a monotube construction. This, the company says, makes them perfectly suited to work in the most hostile of conditions by allowing the nitrogen inside them to be placed under direct, even pressure at all times.

This greatly reduces cavitation, the term for the separation (foaming) of gas and oil molecules when placed under load.

Cavitation results in a marked drop-off in damper performance, leading to a loss of suspension articulation and, in due course, a loss of traction. Bilstein says its monotube dampers are also able to dissipate heat faster than twin-tube designs, thanks to there being no barrier between the pressure tube

and the atmosphere.

And then there’s the aforementioned journey home. This is where you might be expecting Bilstein’s long-running reputation as a motorsport supplier to come into its own, and the company isn’t going to disabuse you of that notion. ‘Our engineering team goes to staggering lengths to ensure that all our dampers are every bit as suited to the hustle and bustle of the public highway as they are to the rigours of off-road competition,’ it says.

The company promises a comprehensive range of fitments, too, including the subtly uprated B8 range of OEM-style dampers.

It has applications for most popular makes and models, including the Land Rover Defender, Discovery and Range Rover and smaller vehicles like the Suzuki Jimny and Vitara, as well as a wide range of one-tonne pick-ups and double-cabs. Want to find out more?

Head for www.bilstein.de.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

PRODUCTS

AIRRIDE AD

FOR THE OFFROAD.

New accessory for Polaris ORVs will make snow clearance a piece of cake DUE TO THEIR off-road ability and smaller proportions, side-bysides can make it to some tricky places that pick-ups or 4x4s simply can’t reach. The little machines can skate like water boatmen across troubling terrain – and that’s why they’re so revered by farmers and agricultural workers the world round. With their latest bout of accessories, Polaris have now enabled their side-by-sides to clear the way, not just lead it.

The Glacier Plow system is designed to be easily and seamlessly attachable to the front of the Ranger. Integrated Lock & Ride attachment points renders installation effortless, and the kickstand means that you simply drive into it to attach it so you don’t need another set of hands to fit it.

A choice of a polyethylene

or steel blade at the bottom of the plough offers either nonstick, non-rust properties or an unbreakable, tough and rigid base to the plough. Whichever you choose, the edges have the same large surface area and forward-facing corners that enact maximum ground covered and efficiency in ground clearing.

Sitting behind the blade is a frame that is wide-set and made of tough, anti-rust steel.

Adding control to the strong structure, the Glacier Pro HD Plow Hydraulic features a lift system that, once installed, offers an alternative to using the winch to lift and lower the plough. It also gives control over the angle of the plough, so the driver can manoeuvre with ease and finesse.

Available for much of the Polaris range, there are Glacier Plow

setups available for the Ranger, RZR, General, Sportsman and Ace models. For full compatibility information, however, it is best to enquire with your local Polaris dealership, just to be certain.

BILSTEIN B8 5100.

A higher level of performance: The ideal shock absorber when you need more clearance and ultimate traction. Thanks to its longer design, the BILSTEIN B8 5100 perfectly fi ts lifting kits for SUVs and light trucks. Enjoy the perfect BILSTEIN driving experience, even off the road.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO bilstein.com

APRIL 2019

39

PRODUCTS

THE BACK AT ITS BEST

How to settle a tense rear axle? Fit the rear only kit from Pedders, duh IF YOU’VE FOUND yourself bumbling along the road in your pick-up truck, maybe after you’ve just finished a trip to the tip, you might notice the difference in comfort now that your rear end has become a lot lighter.

Pick-up trucks have an infamous tendency to feel more frantic at the rear in an unladen state and even the best suffer such characteristics.

The Ford Ranger, for example, is a pick-up truck we very much admire here at Pickup & 4x4 Pro. However, as great a pick-up as it is, when operated regularly in the unladen condition, it can prove to be a bit uncomfortable on the UK’s poor roads, especially for the back seat riders.

Now if you’ve got John in the back who has been messing around on the building site with you all day, maybe you wouldn’t mind giving him a hard time and letting him wince as you drive him back to his drop-off point. But what happens when the week is over and you want to take that holiday

down in Devon? Your Ford Ranger needs added comfort and Pedders can deliver the solution.

Pedders Suspension already offers a lift kit with improved levels of ride comfort. However, for those not seeking a lifted vehicle, Pedders Suspension has developed a new ‘rear only’ kit to address the issue.

The company has had success with its variable rate raised spring technology and taken the innovative design and applied it to a standard height variant. Friction is often caused between the leaf springs, causing a less comfortable ride. But Pedders add ‘Inter-Leaf Anti Friction Pads’ to their setup, which in turn cuts resistance and enhances ride quality.

Pedders also vary the dimensions of the leaves with the thickness of the laminate, all helping to give added comfort. The leaves are diamond-cut to create a taper at the end, which improves articulation and if you combine the variable spring kit with Pedders’ foam cell shocks, you’ll be driving

one smooth ridin’ truck.

The Pedders Suspension kit comprises of two variable rear leaf spring packs, two specially valved shock absorbers, and the bushes and U-bolts required for fitting.

Applying the kit to your Ford Ranger is a straightforward affair, taking around two hours on a vehicle lift, or three hours if you’re without one working on the ground. No wheel alignment

is required post-fitting and no specialist tools are required.

And crucially for those of you wondering out there, the Pedders comfort improvement kit does not reduce the load carrying ability of the vehicle. The kit suits all Ford Rangers from 2012 onwards and you can grab these kits at a special introductory price of £499.00 including VAT and delivery. www. pedders.co.uk

PACKING SMARTER

Tuff Trek bring RSI’s latest excellence to the UK pick-up market WHEN USING YOUR pick-up truck for work, you want it to be working as smartly as you do. That doesn’t mean donning some suave attire and looking good whilst out on site or in the field, no, instead you want to be organised, efficient and working to your maximum potential.

Tuff Trek can at least ensure your pick-up is holding up its end of the bargain, with a number of smart accessories due to be launched next month. Chief among these new additions will be the Rock Solid Industries (RSI) SmartCanopy Evo. Canopies are popular accessories for many pick-up trucks, but if you’re serious about improving your pick-up, you want the very best gear around. With the RSI

30

JUNE 2019

SmartCanopy, the high-strength stainless steel construction makes the canopy as hardwearing as the rest of your truck and arrives with a comprehensive list of features, including side windows, LED lights, rails, cab glass, a roofmounted table and all finished in metallic paint.

The SmartCanopy will be available for all major new pickups, which includes the Mercedes X-Class. Orders open next month and pricing is expected to be around £2600.

Alongside the SmartCanopy, though, you may be interested to learn about the SmartTray, also available from the UK’s RSI importers, Tuff Trek. The latter combines beautifully with the former, giving you even further

practicality to play with. The tray is located in the underside of the SmartCanopy and comes in a vast number of forms, from folding sides to side and rear drawers and lockers, too.

The combination of the SmartCanopy and SmartTray means you can even carry a single or two spare wheels. The tray will be available on the Ranger and Hilux to begin with, with the tray priced at £3500. If you’re going the whole hog, which could be the case if you’re managing a fleet of such workhorses, then the combination of the two equates to £7500 with VAT. Head to tuff-trek.com for more details on the RSI reportoire, which will be available in the UK, courtesy of Tuff Trek from June.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

PRODUCTS

POWER TO THE DREAMERS Pack this pair, and you’ll have enough juice wherever your adventure leads TRAVELLING THE WORLD is a dream most people can relate to.

However, being able to make such a step and turn that dream into reality takes a lot of planning and preparation.

Fortunately, APB Trading is able to offer a whole host of products and useful accessories that can, quite literally, give you the power to get out there and start exploring. For starters, their range of National Luna gear sees to it that you should never find yourself in a powerless situation.

And we’re not talking about being powerless to prevent the enjoyment of a s’more out in the Atlas Mountains, either.

The National Luna Portable Power Pack is a brilliant compromise for vehicles not able to carry a second battery along for the ride. Rather than shoehorning an additional battery into the engine bay or somewhere in the cabin taking up more room, this compact battery box has a built-in split-charge isolator and can be utilised as a standby power source for 12V appliances.

It operates automatically, thereby negating the need for any additional hardware, but also features a range of plugs, from fused accessories to polarised high-power units. Refrigerators, compressors and more can all use power from the pack, while two

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

USB charging ports mean devices such as your smartphone can also stay replenished.

And while travelling is always better with a companion, your power pack shouldn’t be left out either. There’s an ideal accomplice for it in the shape of the 120W 12V Folding Solar Charging Kit, also available from APB Trading.

The kit weighs just 12.8kg, and is perfect for outdoor use, whether that be around camp or out on the tracks. Like the Portable Power Pack, the kit comes with overcharge protection and is

designed with ease of use in mind.

There’s a five-metre cable included with a battery plug and fuse, along with crocodile clips for linking up. Its power can be used directly or directed to a 12V battery, while like any highquality adventure gear, the kit is waterproof and robust enough to tackle the world whilst at your side.

If you’re looking to kit out your truck with the Portable Power Pack and the Folding Solar Charge Kit, both are available from the APB website: www.expeditionequipment.com

JUNE 2019

31

PRODUCTS

CONCEALED SAFETY

Where to go when you want something subtle yet tougher than tough?

OFTEN BUMPERS ARE geared for heavy-duty off-road situations and made from robust materials, with the ability to house numerous accessories. And then you have the StealthBar from ARB. You’ll be familiar with bull bars and traditional nudge bars, but the StealthBar is a worthy substitute for such attachments.

It has been constructed from recyclable materials to be as environmentally friendly as possible, however, its polyethylene construct means it is extremely light, yet its design means it can withstand and absorb significant impacts to give an additional layer of safety.

What’s even more impressive is the fact the system is fully European compliant.

Engineered and manufactured in Australia, this ‘frontal protection

32

JUNE 2019

system’ not only provides safety to vehicle owners and pedestrians, but requires minimal upkeep and integrates perfectly with the durable aesthetic of the pick-up trucks it is made for.

Both the Ford Ranger from 2015 through to 2019 and the current Toyota Hilux model are compatible with the StealthBar and the system works alongside air bags, lighting accessories and antennas. Not only that, but a 9,500lb winch can be installed within the StealthBar, adding just 130mm to the length of the Ford Ranger, for example.

You can use the StealthBar as a complete replacement for the factory-fitted bumper and still utilise the standard fog lights and parking sensors, meaning all the features on the truck still work seamlessly with your new addition.

For more information on the StealthBar, head to the website: www.arb4x4.co.uk.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO

PRODUCTS

DON’T ROLL WITH IT

SuperPro kit will keep your truck calm and collected when you need it most

YOU DON’T NEED to spend much time behind the wheel of a pick-up to discover that its back end doesn’t work the same way as a normal 4x4’s. With a long wheelbase and typically leaf-sprung rear axle, not to mention the lack of an anti-roll bar in many cases, they can be less than settled. They’ll roll through corners in the dry, and can be tail-happy in the wet.

Step forward SuperPro. The suspension specialist prides itself on its innovation – and says this is the philosophy behind its range of heavy-duty, three-position rear anti-roll bars for pick-ups.

These promise to improve stability, handling and traction – especially when the vehicle is being used on wet roads, towing or

carrying heavy loads.

SuperPro itself takes up the story: ’The main benefit of fitting anti-roll bars, particularly on the rear, is to improve roll resistance and vehicle balance and to help limit the amount of understeer and oversteer. For a pick-up with a flat load area at the rear, this change in characteristic is significant and can provide better overall handling and greater driver control.

‘The SuperPro anti-roll bars also reduce the variation in the wheel and tyre camber setting due to chassis roll, otherwise known as “roll camber”. During cornering, the presence of chassis roll usually results in the outside wheels gaining positive camber. By increasing the suspension stiffness and reducing

Up to 50% more power Up to 50% more torque

the roll camber effect, the wheels and tyres stay closer to their optimal settings and, therefore, a larger patch of the tyre maintains contact with the road surface. This means that lateral grip and straight-line traction are improved.’

We know what you’re thinking, though. Adding an anti-roll bar means waving bye-bye to all your lovely axle travel. Except it doesn’t.

SuperPro says there’s no reduction in suspension articulation or significant change in ground clearance with these bars installed.

Indeed, the company claims actual benefits in terms of a vehicle’s off-road ability. ‘The linking of the rear axle and chassis on both sides results in the suspension reacting in a more synchronised way that in turn provides greater traction and stability over uneven terrain,’ it explains.

SuperPro’s rear anti-roll bars are supplied with a durable blue powder-coated finish, in a kit that includes mounting brackets, clamps, fitting instructions and a set of the company’s polyurethane suspension bushes – which, it says, further enhance the operation and longevity of the vehicle’s suspension system. Actually installation the kit requires no modifications to the chassis and original components, meaning it should prove straightforward to anyone with a bit of skill

with the spanners.

SuperPro’s rear anti-roll bars are currently available for pick-up models manufactured by Ford, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen, and in some cases you can choose between a variety of diameters. To find out more, and to search for your nearest stockist, go to www.superproeurope.com.

Dimsport’s Rapid plug&play modules are a solid solution for the optimisation of turbo-diesel and turbo-petrol engines, embracing a very diverse range of needs, from the need for increased torque-power to fuel consumption optimisation in cars, trucks, tractors and boats.

Redline Performance are one of the UKs leading mobile Remapping & Chip Tuning specialists and are the UK suppliers of Dimsport’s Rapid plug&play modules.

www.redlineperformancetuning.co.uk PICKUP & 4X4 PRO 07400 174 815

APRIL 2019

47

BIG BRAKING AIRRIDE AD PERFORMANCE!

PRODUCTS

New accessory for Polaris ORVs will make snow clearance a piece of cake

WITH PEDDERS TRAKRYDER EXTREME BRAKE KITS DUE TO THEIR off-road ability and smaller proportions, side-bysides can make it to some tricky places that pick-ups or 4x4s simply can’t reach. The little machines can skate like water boatmen across troubling terrain – and that’s why they’re so revered by farmers and agricultural workers the world round. With their latest bout of accessories, Polaris have now enabled their side-by-sides to clear the way, not just lead it.

The Glacier Plow system is designed to be easily and seamlessly attachable to the front of the Ranger. Integrated Lock & Ride attachment points renders installation effortless, and the kickstand means that you simply drive into it to attach it so you don’t need another set of hands to fit it.

A choice of a polyethylene

or steel blade at the bottom of the plough offers either nonstick, non-rust properties or an unbreakable, tough and rigid base to the plough. Whichever you choose, the edges have the same large surface area and forward-facing corners that enact maximum ground covered and efficiency in ground clearing.

Sitting behind the blade is a frame that is wide-set and made of tough, anti-rust steel.

Adding control to the strong structure, the Glacier Pro HD Plow Hydraulic features a lift system that, once installed, offers an alternative to using the winch to lift and lower the plough. It also gives control over the angle of the plough, so the driver can manoeuvre with ease and finesse.

Available for much of the Polaris range, there are Glacier Plow

setups available for the Ranger, RZR, General, Sportsman and Ace models. For full compatibility information, however, it is best to enquire with your local Polaris dealership, just to be certain.

BRAKE KITS

ADJUSTABLE 4X4 SUSPENSION

Stainless steel abutments.

For the discerning driver who is particular about how eXtreme Brake Kit. The braking results are staggering with the inclusion of a larger 6 pot caliper design, high tech TrakRyder eXtreme kevlar ceramic pads mated with a 10 slot dimpled and geomet coated larger diameter rotor.

Bigger braking surface means bigger stopping power. With the fitment of the all new Pedders TrakRyder eXtreme brake kit, independent Australian Engineering tests reflected an average improvement in braking distance by up to 14%.

Features: • Stainless steel braided hoses.

• 10 slot and dimpled TrakRyder geomet coated rotors 14”/356mm diameter (OE 11.85”/301mm).

• TrakRyder eXtreme Kevlar Ceramic low dust brake pads.

• TrakRyder eXtreme 6 pot design caliper brackets and bolts.

• 6 Pot, 2 piece aluminium forged calipers.

• High grade alloy steel brake pad insulators.

• Stainless steel pistons.

Specialising in Suspension solutions since 1950 For further information go to www.pedders.co.uk or please contact your local Pedders experts.

01296 711 044 info@pedders.co.uk

* Independent Australian engineering test results proved that at 100kmh the TrakRyder eXtreme Brake Kit system upgrade stopped on average 11m sooner than original distances are reduced 21%. This kit is suited for 18” wheels or larger. Further details available in store and on our website. Suits Ford Ranger PX & PXII APRIL Models. 2019 39 PICKUP & by4X4 PRO

The PWD-X5 features an 8-inch subwoofer, amplifier and DSP in a small underseat form.

Wired Remote Control

The remote control unit is connected with the DSP amplifier by USB. Use the rotary encoder to select input sources (including Bluetooth audio streaming), sound settings and more.

Bluetooth Audio Streaming

-----

If your original car stereo does not feature Bluetooth audio streaming, the PWD-X5 is yet again a great solution for you. With the included Bluetooth dongle that can be plugged in to one of the USB ports on the DSP amp you can stream music from your smartphone to the PWD-X5.