However, like many modern SUVs, the MU-X can quickly run into payload limitations once accessories and touring gear are installed.

Bull bars, winches, drawer systems, roof racks and towball weight all add up fast, which is why many MU-X owners choose to install a GVM upgrade.

At Ape Suspension, we supply and install the Lovells GVM upgrade for the Isuzu MU-X, increasing the vehicle’s legal load carrying capacity to 3325kg.

What Is a GVM Upgrade?

GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) is the maximum legal weight your vehicle can weigh when fully loaded.

This includes:

• Vehicle weight
• Passengers
• Fuel
• Accessories (bull bars, winches, drawers etc.)
• Cargo and camping gear
• Towball weight from trailers or caravans

Once your vehicle exceeds this weight, it becomes illegal and potentially unsafe to drive.

A GVM upgrade increases this legal limit, allowing you to safely carry more weight while maintaining proper suspension performance.

MU-X GVM Upgrade Specifications

The Lovells GVM upgrade for the Isuzu MU-X increases the vehicle’s capacity to 3325kg.

Key Specifications

• Upgraded GVM: 3325kg
• Front Axle Capacity: 1575kg
• Rear Axle Capacity: 1750kg

Lovells recommends maintaining a constant payload of around 250kg to ensure the suspension performs correctly under normal driving conditions.

This makes the upgrade ideal for vehicles fitted with touring accessories or towing setups.

Why MU-X Owners Choose a GVM Upgrade

It’s surprisingly easy to overload a modern 4WD.

Typical touring builds often include:

• Bull bar and winch
• Roof rack or platform
• Dual battery systems
• Drawer systems
• Long range fuel tanks
• Fridges and recovery gear
• Caravan towball weight

Before long, many MU-X vehicles are close to or exceeding their factory payload limit.

A properly engineered GVM upgrade helps ensure your vehicle:

• Remains legal on Australian roads
• Maintains safe handling and braking
• Reduces stress on suspension components
• Handles touring and towing loads more confidently

Lovells Engineered Suspension System

The Lovells GVM upgrade kit includes a complete suspension system designed specifically for the MU-X platform.

Typical components include:

• Heavy duty front coil springs
• Heavy duty rear suspension components
• Matched shock absorbers
• Compliance plates and documentation
• Updated tyre loading placard

These upgrades allow the suspension to properly support increased loads while maintaining ride comfort and stability.

Touring, Towing & Caravan Setups

For many owners, the MU-X is primarily used for caravan towing or long distance touring.

A GVM upgrade is especially useful when your vehicle carries:

• Recovery gear
• Water tanks
• Camping equipment
• Fridges
• Roof tents
• Caravan towball weight

Without a GVM upgrade, these additions can easily push the vehicle beyond its legal weight limit.

MU-X Suspension & GVM Upgrades in Perth

At Ape Suspension, we specialise in suspension upgrades for touring and towing vehicles across Western Australia.

We are Lovells Diamond Dealers and have over 20 years of experience installing suspension systems, lift kits and GVM upgrades.

Our team can help you:

• Upgrade your MU-X suspension
• Increase your legal payload capacity
• Build a safe and capable touring vehicle
• Ensure your setup is compliant and reliable

Book Your MU-X GVM Upgrade

If you’re building a touring MU-X or planning to tow a caravan, speak with our team about upgrading your suspension and GVM today.

📧 sales@apesuspension.com.au
📞 (08) 9302 6648 (Monday – Friday, 8am to 5pm)

With accessories like bull bars, roof racks, drawers, long-range fuel tanks, and towing setups, it doesn’t take long for the new Prado to approach its factory GVM of around 3100–3200kg.

That’s where a Lovells GVM Upgrade comes in.

At Ape Suspension, we can now offer the official Lovells GVM upgrade kits for the Toyota Prado 250 Series, increasing the vehicle’s legal load carrying capacity and making it far more capable for touring, towing and off road adventures.

Two GVM Upgrade Options for the Prado 250

Lovells has developed two engineered upgrade packages for the new Prado:

Touring GVM Upgrade: 3650kg

Ideal for most touring setups and accessory builds.

Key specifications:

• GVM: Increased to 3650kg
• GCM: Increased to 6800kg
• Front Axle Capacity: 1605kg
• Rear Axle Capacity: 2045kg
• Towing Capacity: 3500kg

This option gives Prado owners an additional 450–550kg of payload capacity, depending on the vehicle’s original GVM rating.

Platinum GVM Upgrade: 3900kg

For serious touring setups, heavy builds, and towing.

Key specifications:

• GVM: Increased to 3900kg
• GCM: Increased to 6800kg
• Front Axle Capacity: 1800kg
• Rear Axle Capacity: 2100kg
• Towing Capacity: 3500kg

This upgrade provides up to 800kg more payload capacity compared with a standard Prado.

Why Prado Owners Need a GVM Upgrade

Modern 4WD builds can easily add hundreds of kilograms to a vehicle.

Common accessories include:

• Bull bars
• Winches
• Dual battery systems
• Drawer systems
• Roof racks and rooftop tents
• Long range fuel tanks
• Fridges and recovery gear
• Tow balls from caravans

All of this weight counts toward your Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM), which includes passengers, fuel, cargo, accessories and towball weight.

In Western Australia, exceeding your GVM can lead to:

• Insurance issues
• Defects from road authorities
• Increased wear on suspension and drivetrain
• Reduced safety and braking performance

A properly engineered GVM upgrade ensures your vehicle remains legal, safe and capable when fully loaded.

Federal SSM Approved GVM Upgrade

Lovells is a Federally approved Second Stage Manufacturer (SSM), meaning their upgrades are tested and engineered to meet Australian Design Rules (ADR) and federal compliance standards.

When fitted pre registration, the upgraded GVM is officially recorded on the vehicle’s compliance plate, ensuring the increased capacity is recognised nationally.

Lovells upgrades are developed through extensive testing and analysis to ensure the vehicle remains safe and compliant with Australian standards.

What’s Included in the Prado 250 GVM Upgrade Kit

The Lovells kit includes heavy duty suspension components specifically engineered for the Prado platform, including:

• Heavy duty front coil springs
• Heavy duty rear coil springs
• Gas shock absorbers or remote reservoir shocks (Platinum kit)
• Compliance plates and tyre placards
• Installation documentation and engineering data

These upgrades not only increase legal load capacity but also improve vehicle stability and control when carrying weight or towing.

Minimum Payload Recommendation

Lovells recommends vehicles fitted with their GVM upgrade kits carry a minimum constant payload of around 250kg to maintain proper ride quality and suspension performance.

This is typically achieved easily once accessories and touring equipment are installed.

When Should a GVM Upgrade Be Installed?

There are two ways to install a GVM upgrade:

Pre registration (Federal SSM upgrade)

• Installed before the vehicle is first registered
• Updated GVM is recorded on the compliance plate

Post registration (State engineering)

• Installed on vehicles already registered
• Requires engineering inspection and certification depending on the state

Our team can help advise which option is best for your situation.

Prado 250 GVM Upgrade Installation in Perth

At Ape Suspension, we specialise in suspension upgrades for touring and towing vehicles across Western Australia.

We are Lovells Diamond Dealers and have over 20 years of experience fitting suspension and GVM upgrades for serious 4WD builds.

If you’re planning to:

• Tow a caravan
• Fit touring accessories
• Build a touring Prado
• Stay legal with your payload

a GVM upgrade is one of the best modifications you can make.

Book Your Prado 250 GVM Upgrade

If you’ve just ordered or purchased the new Toyota Prado 250 Series, speak with our team about upgrading the suspension and GVM today.

📧 sales@apesuspension.com.au
📞 (08) 9302 6648 (Monday – Friday, 8am to 5pm)

That’s where the latest Tough Dog GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) Upgrade comes in.

Ape Suspension is proud to announce that we can now supply and install the Tough Dog GVM upgrade kit for the Prado 250, giving you up to an extra 700 kg of legal payload capacity and taking your GVM to a whopping 3,800 kg.

Why Choose a GVM Upgrade?

Modern 4WDs often run out of payload quickly once you add:

• Bull bars, winches, roof racks
• Drawers, fridges, long range tanks
• Passengers, luggage, or work gear
• Towing accessories and ball weight

It doesn’t take much to push your Prado over its legal limit, and exceeding factory GVM can put you at risk of:

• Fines and defect notices
• Insurance claims being rejected
• Reduced braking performance and safety issues

A GVM upgrade gives you peace of mind, ensuring your vehicle is compliant, safe, and legal when fully loaded.

Why Tough Dog?

Tough Dog has been designing suspension solutions for over 35 years and is one of Australia’s most trusted brands. Their GVM kits are federally certified as a Second Stage Manufacturer (SSM), which means:

• Full ADR compliance (tested under brake, ESC, and FEA conditions)
• Options for both pre registration and post registration vehicles
• Components engineered specifically for the Prado 250

This isn’t just a heavier spring, it’s a fully engineered and certified solution.

Pre Reg vs Post Reg Upgrades

• Pre Reg: If your Prado 250 hasn’t been registered yet, the GVM upgrade can be federally approved before first rego. You’ll receive a new compliance plate and drive away legally upgraded.
• Post Reg: If your Prado is already registered, the upgrade can still be completed via a state based inspection and engineering sign off. Ape Suspension can guide you through this process start to finish.

Why Choose Ape Suspension?

At Ape Suspension, we don’t just bolt in parts, we build vehicles fit for purpose. When you book your Tough Dog GVM upgrade with us, you get:

• Expert installation by our in house suspension specialists
• Compliance guidance for WA registration requirements
• Tailored advice to match your vehicle setup (touring, towing, or trade use)
• After sales support to keep your suspension performing long term

Book Your Prado 250 GVM Upgrade Today

The Toyota Prado 250 is already an icon in the making, and now with the Tough Dog 3,800 kg GVM upgrade, it’s ready for anything you can throw at it. Whether you’re hauling tools during the week or towing a caravan up north on the weekend, you’ll be doing it safely and legally.

 Contact Ape Suspension today to secure your Tough Dog GVM upgrade and take your Prado 250 to the next level.

Whether you’re building a touring rig, tackling corrugations in the outback, or just want a smoother, more controlled ride around town, the EFS MXP shocks and coilovers are built to perform.

What Makes the EFS MXP Series Different

The MXP (Monotube eXtreme Performance) Series represents the most advanced suspension product ever developed by EFS. Every component, from the internal valving to the external construction, has been designed with one purpose…to deliver superior control and comfort across all terrain.

Key Features:

• • 2.5-inch Monotube Body: Maximises oil volume for better cooling and consistent damping under load.

• • 22mm Hardened Chrome Piston Rod: Adds strength and durability to handle punishing conditions.

• • 30-Stage Rebound Adjustability: Fine-tune your suspension to suit your load, driving style, or terrain.

• • Direct Bolt-In Fitment: No cutting or chassis modification required; simply replace your OEM shocks.

• • Adjustable Coilover Spring Seat (on MXP Struts): Perfect for setting ride height or compensating for accessories and load changes.

• • High Quality Bushings & Mounts: Designed to minimise vibration, noise, and harshness for daily comfort.

This level of precision engineering means the MXP range delivers race level performance in a form that’s fully streetable and installer friendly.

Performance That Adapts to You

One of the standout features of the EFS MXP shocks is their 30 stage rebound adjustment. With a simple clicker dial, you can shift from soft and comfortable for the daily commute to firm and controlled for off road tracks or towing heavy loads.

That level of control makes the MXP perfect for:

• • Dual purpose 4WDs used both on road and off road.

• • Touring setups that need flexibility for varying loads.

• • 4×4 builds that balance aesthetics, stance, and ride quality.

• • Towing caravans, campers, or boats where damping control is crucial.

No matter how you drive, MXP lets you dial in your ideal setup: comfort when you want it, control when you need it.

Monotube Design: Built to Perform, Built to Last

Unlike traditional twin tube shocks, the MXP uses a monotube design that offers faster heat dissipation and more consistent performance under harsh conditions. This is especially important for long off road drives or towing, where sustained heat can cause shock fade in cheaper systems.

With a 2.5-inch body and large piston area, the MXP offers excellent oil flow and superior damping precision. Combined with premium seals and materials, it’s engineered to handle the extremes of Australian terrain; from desert tracks to coastal sand runs.

Height & Stance Control with MXP Coilovers

The EFS MXP Coilover Struts take the concept even further, integrating an adjustable spring seat for fine ride height tuning. This means you can lift your front end to suit barwork, winches, or other accessories without compromising shock travel or ride comfort.

That’s ideal for 4WD owners who want both function and stance; the look of a lifted setup with the ride quality of a premium system.

Australian Tuned Durability

Every MXP unit is tested in harsh conditions before hitting the shelves. EFS products are designed, tested, and tuned in Australia, ensuring they can withstand everything from high speed corrugations to coastal salt and red dirt.

If you want gear that holds up where it matters, on real Aussie tracks, MXP is the suspension you can trust.

How MXP Fits into the EFS Lineup

EFS already offers a strong range of shocks and struts, including:

• • Enforcer: Entry level twin tube option.

• • Elite: Balanced comfort and performance.

• • XTR / X-Treme: Heavy duty touring and off road shocks.

The MXP sits at the top of the range; a fully adjustable, performance driven monotube shock for drivers who demand precision and control.

Available Fitments

The EFS MXP range is expanding rapidly, with options now available for popular 4WDs including:

• • Ford Ranger (Next-Gen)

• • Ford Everest (2022+)

• • Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2021+)

• • Toyota Hilux

• • Great Wall Tank 300

• • Isuzu D-MAX / Mazda BT-50

Check with our in house experts for fitment details and installation packages.

Why Choose EFS MXP Shocks & Coilovers?

If you’re looking for a premium, Australian tuned suspension system that can handle anything you throw at it, EFS MXP is the smart upgrade. It’s designed to bridge the gap between comfort and capability; from daily driving to full off road adventure.

With MXP, you’re not just upgrading your suspension. You’re transforming your entire driving experience.

Ready to Upgrade?

At Ape Suspension, we’re proud to be a Fully certified dealer and installer for EFS WA, supplying and installing the full EFS range, including the new MXP Series.

If you’re ready to experience a smoother, stronger, and more controlled ride, contact our team today to discuss your setup or book an installation.

👉 Visit www.apesuspension.com.au and fill out an online form, or call us on (08) 9302 6648 to learn more about EFS MXP Shocks and Coilovers for your vehicle.

Adaptive Suspension Systems

Adaptive suspension systems are revolutionizing the off-road experience by automatically adjusting the suspension settings based on driving conditions. These systems use sensors to monitor terrain and vehicle dynamics, making real-time adjustments to optimize ride quality and handling.

**Benefits**: Improved comfort, better handling, and enhanced stability across various terrains.

Electronically Controlled Dampers

Electronically controlled dampers (ECD) are becoming increasingly popular in 4×4 vehicles. These dampers adjust the damping force in response to changing road conditions, offering a smoother and more controlled ride.

**Benefits**: Enhanced ride comfort, reduced body roll, and improved traction.

Air Suspension Systems

Air suspension systems have been around for a while but are now more accessible and advanced than ever. These systems use air springs instead of traditional coil or leaf springs, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved load handling.

**Benefits**: Adjustable ride height, improved load capacity, and superior ride comfort.

**Example**: The Airbag Man system enhances off-road capabilities by allowing drivers to adjust the ride height based on the terrain.

Remote Reservoir Shocks

Remote reservoir shocks are a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts. These shocks have an external reservoir that increases fluid capacity, reducing heat buildup and providing better performance over rough terrain.

**Benefits**: Improved shock performance, reduced fade, and enhanced durability.

**Example**: The EFS remote reservoirs are known for their ability to handle extreme off-road conditions, providing consistent performance even during prolonged use.

Adjustable Control Arms

Adjustable control arms allow for fine-tuning of the vehicle’s suspension geometry. This adjustment is crucial for maintaining proper alignment and handling, especially when lifting a vehicle.

**Benefits**: Improved alignment, better handling, and reduced tire wear.

**Example**: Tough Dog adjustable control arms offer precise adjustments, ensuring optimal performance after a lift kit installation.

High-Performance Lift Kits

Modern lift kits are designed with advanced materials and engineering to provide better performance and durability. These kits not only lift the vehicle but also enhance its overall handling and ride quality.

**Benefits**: Increased ground clearance, improved off-road capability, and enhanced vehicle aesthetics.

**Example**: The Lovells lift kits are renowned for their durability and performance, making them a top choice for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Integration of Smart Technology

The integration of smart technology into suspension systems is a growing trend. This includes features like smartphone apps that allow drivers to control and monitor their suspension settings remotely.

**Benefits**: Enhanced convenience, real-time monitoring, and easy adjustments.

**Example**: The EFS X-Treme suspension system comes with a smartphone app that lets drivers adjust settings and monitor performance in real-time.

Lightweight Materials

The use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and advanced composites in suspension components is increasing. These materials reduce unsprung weight, improving handling and ride quality.

**Benefits**: Better handling, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced wear on suspension components.

Progressive Coil Springs

Progressive coil springs offer a variable spring rate, providing a balance between comfort and performance. These springs compress progressively, offering a softer ride initially and firming up as the load increases.

**Benefits**: Enhanced ride comfort, improved load handling, and better off-road performance.

Enhanced Bushings and Mounts

Modern suspension systems are incorporating enhanced bushings and mounts made from advanced materials that offer better performance and durability.

**Benefits**: Reduced noise and vibration, improved handling, and longer lifespan.

**Example**: Polyurethane bushings from EFS offer superior performance compared to traditional rubber bushings, providing better handling and durability.

Conclusion

The latest trends in 4×4 suspension technologies are pushing the boundaries of what off-road vehicles can achieve. From adaptive suspension systems to lightweight materials, these innovations are enhancing the performance, comfort, and durability of 4×4 vehicles. At Ape Suspension in Landsdale, WA, we stay at the forefront of these trends, offering the latest and greatest in suspension upgrades. Whether you’re looking to improve your off-road capabilities or simply enhance your vehicle’s ride quality, our expert team is here to help.

For over 15 years, Ape Suspension has been providing top-quality suspension solutions to 4×4 enthusiasts in Perth. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you take advantage of these cutting-edge suspension technologies. Visit our website at www.apesuspension.com.au or drop by our workshop in Landsdale, WA. Let’s elevate your 4×4 experience to the next level!