BIGGEST 4X4 NEW STORIES TO DROP IN 2016: PART 2

2016 was a breakout year for the Light Commercial Vehicle.

More and more people shifted their savings into big lumps of metal capable of exploring remote tracks, and we’re glad they did.

This meant some big things happened on the news front in 2016, and we’ve compiled five more news stories that caused a stir during the year.

We can only imagine how big 2017 is going to be for the 4x4 community! Stay tuned.

1: 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro shoots to thrill

We took a look inside and beneath the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro following its revelation at the Chicago Auto Show in February. We checked out its droolworthy TRD-tuned suspension with Fox 2.5 internal bypass shocks and TRD-tuned front springs, and also the one-inch lift and corresponding rear leaf spring update!

2: V8 Amarok gets dirty

Volkswagen rolled out a matte-orange V8-powered Amarok at the 2016 Geneva Auto Show, and it almost sent the web into meltdown. The ‘Desert Passion’ Amarok’s stonking V8 pumps out a wild 302kW and 930Nm!

3: Nissan Patrol sales soar

The Y61 GU Patrol’s replacement, the Y62, was selling like hotcakes back in April, 2016. Nissan Australia CEO, Richard Emery, said at the time: “By being honest with ourselves and our dealers with where that car was and what it was capable of, we repositioned and respecified that car, and really priced and specced it at what the market expectation was,” said Emery of the current model. “And surprise, surprise, people started buying it in droves.”

4: VW confirms Amarok wagon

Earlier this year, Vee dub executives confirmed an Amarok-based three-row wagon is in planning for development. They claimed plans for a wagon built on the ute’s ladder chassis had been initiated back in 2011. What a tantalising wagon segment it will be if and when it lands down under.

5: LandCruiser 70 Series receives updates ahead of Q4 launch

Before the updated LC70 Series launched, we outlined the significant safety and performance upgrades the venerable Cruiser will receive. It’s since arrived, and it’s one helluva machine!