Should You Upgrade Your 4WD or Buy a New One?

Are you eyeing that shiny new 4WD at the dealership? Before you drain your bank account, take a moment to consider whether your current vehicle might still have plenty of life left in it. Here's why modifying your existing 4WD might be the smarter choice for your adventures and your wallet.

3 Things to Consider Before Buying a New 4WD

The all-new 250 Series Prado — untouched and straight off the showroom floor. The perfect blank canvas for your next 4WD build.

1. Aftermarket Accessories Availability

One of the biggest advantages of keeping your current 4WD is the wealth of aftermarket accessories already available. If you purchase a brand-new model that's just hit the market, you'll likely face a waiting game for accessories to become available.

With established models like the 200 Series Land Cruiser or a 2021 Prado, you've got a "plethora of options" for accessories right now. Everything from bull bars to roof racks, drawer systems to suspension upgrades—they're all readily available for popular existing models.

This 200 Series is tour-ready with a full GVM upgrade - a reliable setup for big trips and heavy loads.

2. Make Your Money Go Further

The funds you've saved for a new vehicle could potentially transform your current 4WD into the perfect adventure machine. Instead of starting payments on a new vehicle, consider investing in:

• Drawer systems

• Dual battery upgrade

• Winch

• Suspension upgrades

These modifications can dramatically improve your current vehicle's capability and comfort without the massive depreciation hit of a new purchase.

RVSS dual drawer system neatly fitted in this Prado 150, providing more storage for longer trips.

3. Avoid Warranty Headaches

When you modify a new vehicle, warranty concerns immediately come into play. Dealers are often quick to blame aftermarket accessories when problems arise.

While consumer law states that dealers must prove the aftermarket product caused the issue, fighting these battles can be a major headache. With an older vehicle that's out of warranty, you can modify to your heart's content without these concerns.

The Case for Simplicity

There's something to be said for the simplicity of older vehicles. Many seasoned 4WD enthusiasts prefer vehicles like 2014 D-Max models or N70 Hiluxes because they have:

• Fewer electronics to fail

• No DPF systems

• Tried and tested components

• Well-documented issues and fixes

The latest models might come with fancy tech like auto braking and blind-spot monitoring, but as one experienced owner puts it, these are "just more things that can go wrong."

This GU Patrol runs Superior suspension front to back - a proven upgrade for flex, clearance, and comfort on tough Aussie terrain.

Final Thoughts

While new vehicles certainly have their appeal, don't overlook the potential of what's already sitting in your driveway. By upgrading your current 4WD with carefully selected modifications, you could end up with a more capable, reliable adventure vehicle—and save yourself a significant amount of money in the process.

Remember, the best vehicle for off-road adventures isn't necessarily the newest one on the lot, but the one that's properly equipped for your specific needs.

Ready to Upgrade Your 4WD?

Before you spend big on a brand-new vehicle, chat with the team at BAW. We’ve helped hundreds of 4WD owners transform their current setups into fully capable, road-legal touring weapons. Whether you're chasing a GVM upgrade, bar work, suspension, or a complete fit-out, we’ll give you honest advice based on real-world experience.

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