Choosing a ute isn’t just about picking the biggest engine or the best deal.
It’s about selecting a vehicle that meets both lifestyle and work needs, while also aligning with novated leasing requirements.
Here are five key features to consider before committing to a ute:
1. Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) vs. Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Are you looking for a two-wheel drive and a four-wheel drive ute?
A 2WD ute is typically more affordable to purchase and lease.
It is lighter, generally more fuel-efficient, and best suited for on-road driving or highway conditions.
If you do not require off-road performance or heavy-duty capability, a 2WD option may offer better overall value.
In contrast, a 4WD ute provides greater traction and control on uneven or challenging surfaces, making it suitable for regional, rural or off-road environments.
These vehicles are often essential on construction sites, in mining, or in agriculture.
It is important to assess where the vehicle will spend most of its time before deciding which drivetrain suits your needs. Read our full breakdown of 2WD and 4WD here.
2. Payload Capacity
To be eligible for novated leasing, the ute’s payload must be under 1,000 kilograms.
This figure includes the total weight of passengers, fuel, accessories, tools and any modifications.
Vehicles that exceed this threshold cannot be salary packaged on a novated lease.
If you regularly carry tools or equipment should consider how the load is distributed.
Opting for a dual cab configuration, for example, may allow some items to be carried inside the cabin, helping to stay within the legal payload limit.
Have a ute in mind but you're unsure about the payload capacity? Check with your dedicated novated leasing consultant to learn more!
3. Towing Capacity and Usage
If you plan to tow a trailer, caravan, or boat, it is essential to understand the vehicle’s braked towing capacity and gross combination mass (GCM).
Braked towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow when the trailer is fitted with its own brakes.
Most modern dual-cab utes in Australia offer capacities up to 3,500kg.
However, real-world towing performance is affected by factors such as vehicle load, passenger weight, and terrain.
Ensure your selected ute can safely and legally handle any towing requirements they anticipate during their lease term.
4. Cab Configuration
Utes come in a variety of cab styles, and the right one depends on both work and personal needs.
- Single Cab: Offers the longest tray space and is best suited for job-specific use. It typically seats two people.
- Extra Cab (Space Cab): Provides occasional rear seating and some additional interior storage without sacrificing too much tray length.
- Dual Cab: Features four doors and seating for up to five adults. It offers the best flexibility for combining work duties with family or personal use.
Typically, a dual cab often provides the most versatility for work/lifestyle balance.
5. Fuel Type and Efficiency
Traditionally, utes have been dominated by diesel engines, and for good reason.
Diesel engines provide strong torque and better fuel economy over long distances or under load. This makes them ideal for heavy-duty applications, towing, or long commutes.
However, new options are entering the market. Petrol utes may be suitable for drivers covering fewer kilometers or doing more suburban driving, though they are becoming less common in Australia.
Hybrid models, such as the BYD Shark 6, now provide a new solution that blends performance with lower fuel consumption and reduced environmental impact.
Choosing the right fuel type depends on how frequently the ute will be driven, the distances covered, and whether efficiency or power is the greater priority.
Australia’s Top 5 Utes for Novated Leasing in 2025
These utes deliver a powerful mix of performance, comfort, and cost efficiency; all while meeting the requirements for novated leasing.
- Ford Ranger – from $279/week (excluding running costs)
- BYD Shark 6 – from $240/week (excluding running costs)
- Isuzu D-MAX – from $225/week (excluding running costs)
- Toyota HiLux – from $212/week (excluding running costs)
- Mitsubishi Triton – from $241/week (excluding running costs)
Choosing a ute through novated leasing is about more than just picking a vehicle, it is about finding the right fit for your lifestyle, work requirements, and financial goals.
By understanding the key features that matter and comparing popular models, employees can make informed decisions that deliver long-term value and tax savings.
To compare lease options side by side or learn more about how novated leasing can work for your situation,