Car industry

By the quit of 2025, BYD hopes its standing in Australia will beginning up to duplicate its quantity and stature in its home market, with expectations of over 40,000 annual sales and a model vary narrate to encompass the Atto 2 dinky electrical SUV, a three-row seven-seat SUV and the highest rate U8 big SUV, branded as Denza (rather than ‘Yangwang’ love in China).

Chasing Vehicles spoke to David Smitherman, CEO of BYD’s Australian importer EV Relate, on the scorching Sealion 7 open and he mentioned the amount 1 priority for BYD in Australia is to introduce a seven-seat SUV.

“Whatever is on hand in China we favor to bring to Australia – we favor to beget out [BYD’s] product portfolio because we don’t accumulate adequate product,” mentioned Mr Smitherman. “We favor to make obvious we accumulate a elephantine product portfolio.

“The priority for me would be a three-row, seven-seat SUV – that roughly thing is what we’d love to get back of. Nothing is evident at this level nevertheless that will most likely be my next goal, I’d disclose. All people knows Australians love seven seaters [and] we don’t accumulate a seven-seater, so we favor to construct up that available in the market,” he mentioned.

The seven-seat SUV Mr Smitherman is referring to is most likely the BYD Tang – a gigantic roam-in hybrid and fully electrical SUV that launched in 2018 in China nevertheless has been facelifted no lower than twice since then, the closing time in 2024.

Styled below the direction of German vogue designer Wolfgang Egger – outdated chief vogue designer for Audi, Lamborghini and Alfa Romeo, and now create director for BYD – the handsome, neatly-proportioned Tang has defied its age neatly, with the electrical model differentiated by a peculiar grille-much less entrance equipped closing yr.

Through sizing, the BYD Tang is a little longer and spherical 50mm wider than a Kia Sorento or Hyundai Santa Fe, nevertheless rides on a cessation to-identical wheelbase (2820mm). And its powertrains are up up to now – the twin-motor EV featuring a 109kWh battery, all-wheel pressure, 0-100km/h in a claimed 4.9sec and a WLTP vary of 530km.

Whether it retains its Tang nameplate for Australia is risky, although the automobile is marketed as the Tan in Brazil, which would per chance perhaps impartial sign more appropriate.

The Atto 2 dinky electrical SUV – impartial launched in the UK market – appears to be like a straightforward assignment for BYD’s Australian line-up in 2025, carrying the identical Atto 2 nameplate because it does in Europe rather than rumoured suggestions similar to Atto 3 Up, Yuan Up or Yuan Pro.

The UK’s entry-stage Atto 2 substances a 45kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, a 130kW/280Nm electrical motor driving the entrance wheels, a 0-100km/h time of seven.9sec and a WLTP vary explain of 312km, with an coming near long-vary model extending that electrical vary to 420km.

As for a impartial 4 wheel pressure, Mr Smitherman reiterated his desire for BYD to construct up a automobile in every section. “I must make obvious we’ve got the elephantine product in market, and that can imply we favor to construct up some real 4x4s,” he mentioned.

“Behold at our opponents and at the same time as you ogle our competitor has that selection of product, BYD must accumulate the identical. And if we test on the build we’re searching to be, we’ve got to construct up big SUVs.”

Chief rival for BYD in this department is GWM (Essential Wall Motors) with its Tank 300, Tank 500, Cannon and now the Cannon Alpha roam-in hybrid ute.

Whereas BYD’s roam-in hybrid Shark 6 ute has already long gone on sale right here, there’s a gamble the closely connected Fangchengbao Bao 5 (mid-dimension roam-in hybrid SUV) and Bao 8 (big roam-in hybrid SUV) would per chance perhaps come to Australia to compete with GWM’s Tank fashions, among others.

Seemingly marketed as BYDs, nevertheless doubtlessly carrying the more upmarket Denza trace (and equipped as Denza B5 and B8), the Bao 5 and Bao 8 (‘Bao’ this means that Leopard in Chinese) portion their physique-on-frame underpinnings with the Shark 6 ute.

The more compact and arguably better-searching Bao 5 shares the Shark’s powertrain – a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, a 32kWh battery and a pair of electrical motors for combined outputs of 505kW/760Nm and a 0-100km/h time of 4.8sec. It substances three diff locks and affords a flagship model with height-adjustable suspension.

The larger Bao 8 is a little wider and rides on a 120mm-longer wheelbase (2920mm) nevertheless is a lot longer general – measuring 5195mm (a stretch of 305mm). It moreover weighs spherical 400kg more and will get a a lot increased specification, along side height-adjustable air suspension, a ground clearance of up to 310mm, and three automatic diff locks.

Its 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with twin electrical motors and 37kWh battery produces a combined vitality output of 550kW, thrusting the elephantine Bao 8 from 0-100km/h in the identical 4.8sec as the Bao 5.

Confirmed for Australia is BYD’s upmarket YangWang U8 big SUV – to be branded in Australia as the Denza U8. Lately photographed testing in the Australian outback in barely-hand-pressure compose, the U8 is a gigantic and pricey SUV/4 wheel pressure – intended to be China’s resolution to the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

Its specification is breathtaking – a person electrical motor for every wheel, electronically controlled all-wheel pressure, energetic suspension, a combined 60-inches of dashboard monitors plus a 70-accelerate augmented actuality head-up sign, a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine acting as a unfold extender for the 49kWh battery, and combined outputs of 880kW/1280Nm.

BYD says the 5.3m-long U8 can hit 100km/h in barely 3.6sec, in spite of having to shift nearly 3500kg, and is in a position to up to 124km of electrical-completely WLTP vary.

As for what else is doubtlessly coming for BYD, there’s moreover the Seal 06 GT (a smaller hatchback model of the Seal sedan), although Mr Smitherman wouldn’t interpret on exactly what we’ll ogle in 2025, or past.

“The impartial reality is I will’t define you what’s coming, nevertheless there is loads coming,” he mentioned.

He used to be fully happy to discuss BYD’s sales ambitions for Australia, nonetheless.

“Closing yr we equipped spherical 20,000 automobiles – we’re searching to double that this yr. So I maintain we’re in for a truly robust yr, and if I test at our fresh orders, we’re neatly-positioned for that amount.

“I’m very assured we are able to discontinuance that,” he mentioned – little doubt boosted by the impartial-launched Sealion 7 mid-dimension electrical SUV, which BYD expects will turn into its finest-promoting automobile in Australia.

Intriguingly, that 40,000 annual sales goal doesn’t truly encompass BYD’s impending onslaught of unusual fashions. So for any doubters of the ‘Produce Your Aims’ trace and its long-timeframe viability in Australia, all we are able to reveal is ‘test this location’. On story of issues are with out note changing.

Thanks for joining us this Monday March 10th 2025. Tesla Cybertruck update for Australia, Cadillac Optiq and Vistiq devices confirmed for Australia, Nissan GT-R reborn for Adelaide Motorsport Festival and more.

Browse this location:

• Cadillac Optiq and Vistiq devices confirmed for Australia
• Shock Tesla Cybertruck update for Australia
• Nissan GT-R R32 reborn for Adelaide Motorsport Festival
• Most up-to-date independent driver expertise unveiled in Japan
• 2025 JAC T9 4×4 ute reviewed

Cadillac Optiq and Vistiq devices confirmed for Australia

• Cadillac will introduce two fresh all-electric devices sitting either facet of the Lyriq, which is currently available to verbalize.

• The Optiq is Cadillac’s BMW iX3 and Audi Q6 e-tron sized mannequin and will be the quantity play. Twin electric motors provide AWD along with 224kW and 480Nm for the two-row SUV.

• The Vistiq, meanwhile, is a gigantic 5.2-metre lengthy luxurious SUV such as the Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz EQS. Cadillac’s rob affords three rows of seating, with regards to 460kW, air scurry vigorous suspension and around 500km riding vary.

• Both devices are expected to near in Australia in 2026 and sit alongside the $117,000 (sooner than on-avenue costs) Lyriq. Pricing, sides and remaining specifications are but to be confirmed.

Shock Tesla Cybertruck update for Australia

• Tesla Nation Director for Australia and Unusual Zealand Thom Drew printed to Chasing Vehicles that the Cybertruck will be on the cards for Australia finally — providing adequate hobby could maybe be drummed up.

• “There is nothing else adore Cybertruck on the market, looks to be apart – it’s not for all people,” talked about Drew, noting he and Tesla’s local arm uncover “untapped capability” for the automobile in Australia, notably after the success of the electrified BYD Shark 6.

• Drew furthermore confirmed the Cybertruck doesn’t dangle a soft-hand-power conversion limitation, thanks largely to its steer-by-wire gadget and sparse cabin. Work will probably be needed for the Cybertruck to look at strict ADRs, but Drew appears to be like assured.

• Pricing could maybe skill $200,000 for the flagship 630kW/1396Nm Cyberbeast, whereas a twin-motor model will be around $150,000. Stop tuned for future trends.

• Read the corpulent memoir here.

Nissan GT-R R32 reborn for Adelaide Motorsport Festival

• The customary ‘Godzilla’ returned to the Adelaide Motorsport Festival 35 years after its first appearance on this country.

• Both on teach statically and dynamically, the enduring Nissan GT-R R32 became meticulously built by Gibson Motorsport — the identical crew which dominated The Mountain in that period.

• Although the chassis became borrowed from an import destined for the scrapheap, the automobile sides many substances from the customary ‘GMS-001’ automobile along with period merely bits that would were on the automobile when a younger Designate Skaife debuted it at Mallala.

• The GT-R wears the identical livery it did at the 1990 Tooheys Bathurst 1000 plod.

Most up-to-date independent driver expertise unveiled in Japan

• Nissan is asking to change into a leader in independent riding in Japan and has, for the first time in Japan, let a driverless automobile free to navigate a public avenue gadget in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai home.

• The Serena minivan became equipped with an array of sensors along with onboard AI to support it recognise, predict and form judgements on vehicles and environments surrounding it.

• The self-riding Serena is the latest trend in a driverless mobility provider Nissan is planning to initiate in Japan.

• Nissan’s AI trial follows the grand-publicised debut of Tesla’s Robocabs, which circulated a controlled home by themselves in 2024 with an apparent initiate pickle for slack 2026.

2025 JAC T9 4×4 ute reviewed

• Our 4×4 specialist Evan Spence took a hotfoot within the latest scale back-brand ute from China, the JAC T9 and stumbled on out some attention-grabbing small print.

• With a turbo-diesel powerplant and 3200kg braked towing ability for below $50,000 power-away, Evan became intrigued by the similarities to a HiLux beneath and impressed by the fashioned rear disc brakes.

• Nonetheless with out adequate time to rob the JAC T9 for an right test off-avenue, quiz marks live about its functionality and durability. Inquire of of a more in-depth test within the extinguish.
• Look the corpulent overview: Right here

The next location of Car News This day will probably be printed on Tuesday 11th March at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for joining us this Friday March eighth 2025. Polestar slams FCAI’s agenda, height at up thus a long way Xpeng G9, lack of ardour sees electrical supercar axed, Volvo EX60 teased and additional.

Browse this subject:

• Electrical car put slams efforts to ‘undermine’ emissions laws
• Chinese language put’s next wide EV: Xpeng G9 is coming to Oz
• No one was alive to on this electrical supercar
• Volvo EX60 2026: Next-gen BMW iX3 rival teased
• Slick and complicated: 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron review

Electrical car brand Polestar slams efforts to ‘undermine’ emissions laws

• Electrical car specialist Polestar has slammed the Federal Chamber of Automobile Industries (FCAI) for looking out to “undermine” the govt.’s new vehicle effectivity usual (NVES) in feedback made about slack EV sales in February.

• Polestar’s feedback inform the Sino-Swedish put withdrawing from the FCAI in March final yr. The emblem is a sales minnow in contrast to Tesla, which also withdrew from the height body.

• Australian boss Scott Maynard acknowledged: “Over 85 p.c of global car markets maintain a gas effectivity usual in jam to bring improved health outcomes and gash possession costs. We should always protect the course to set up these benefits realised in Australia.”

Chinese language put’s next wide EV: Xpeng G9 is coming to Oz

• Current Chinese language put Xpeng’s next wide model has been up thus a long way at dwelling. The Xpeng G9 is greater than the G6 that’s on sale here, closer in vibe to a BMW iX or Audi Q6 e-tron with battery sizes up to 93kWh and mercurial charging due to the 800V electrics.

• Australian importer TrueEV has confirmed the G9 for our market, likely following the X9 folk mover.

• Xpeng is one in every of a necessity of recent Chinese language names shopping for success in the market, nonetheless is aiming at a extra premium stage than BYD. Judge of names like Tesla and Zeekr as competitors for Xpeng.

No one was alive to on this electrical supercar

• Maserati has officially canceled its MC20 Folgore electrical supercar consuming in, says UK outlet Autocar.

• In accordance to the mid-engined V6-powered MC20, the consuming in was shelved due to the inadequate demand for the vehicle — in particular in the most most vital growth market of China.

• As a alternative, Maserati is liable to set up correct into a revitalisation of the MC20 in the lengthy escape, tweaking the V6 and diversified aspects.

• Maserati is no longer any longer the first put to ease up on electrical vehicles. Lotus no longer too lengthy ago recommitted to combustion engines with range extenders, and Porsche has also no longer too lengthy ago walked aid pure electrical plans.

Volvo EX60 2026: Next-gen BMW iX3 rival teased

• For the length of the brand new ES90’s expose, Volvo dropped a escape at its next wide vendor, the all-electrical EX60. Adore the XC60, it’s a mid-size SUV, though it can well should always combat off the brand new BMW iX3 and Audi Q6 e-tron when it launches a whereas in 2026.

• The sneak height of the clay model doesn’t expose a great deal, simplest revealing a equivalent beautiful path to petite EX30 and big EX90 in the aid lights and tailgate shaping.

• The EX60 is anticipated to debut the brand new SPA3 platform, a modular platform — no longer no longer like BMW’s CLAR — that will toughen many vehicle sizes. Battery packs shall be incorporated into the structure to boost stiffness and gash weight.

Slick and complicated: 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron review

• Founder Tom Baker takes the magnifying glass to the brand new Audi Q6 e-tron in greater-mid Quattro guise on its Australian Debut.

• There were questions from Tom about the pricing, pricey alternatives, reasonable effectivity and the Q6 e-tron’s tight aid seat room.

• Baker praised the dazzling and digestible appears to be like to be like, sturdy efficiency, and graceful lumber quality. The cabin’s new mercurial media system and sturdy construct quality also impressed nonetheless we’re left questioning: who’s the client in Australia?

Sight the YouTube video: Link to gaze here.

The subsequent subject of Car Facts Nowadays shall be published on Monday tenth March at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for joining us this Thursday March Sixth 2025. Win out in regards to the struggling within the fresh-automobile market, Ford’s petrol-electrical dual-cab saviour, a fresh hardcore WRX, Volvo’s graceful electrical sedan, an EV for the Volks and fresh ranger extender EV for Oz.

Browse this tell:

• Rate of residing disaster strikes the fresh automobile market with flagging gross sales
• Ford small print its saunter-in hybrid rival to the BYD Shark 6
• Hardcore Subaru WRX tS Spec B is an STI-lite
• Modern fresh sedan takes aim at BMW i5, Audi A6 e-tron
• Volkswagen’s electrical automobile for the people
• 2025 Ford Everest Tremor review

Rate of residing disaster strikes the fresh automobile market with flagging gross sales

• February gross sales are in and it isn’t having a come all over ethical. In contrast with final year, deliveries be pleased dropped almost 10 percent and it’s being led by electrical vehicles. Tesla had a shocker and helped pull EV gross sales down 37 percent.

• Toyota stayed on high both for trace and automobile, taking high honours with the RAV4 hybrid. Ford took 2d with Ranger, then came HiLux.

• We’ve at final seen if BYD’s in a arena to slouch the stroll, too, after the launch of Shark 6 saunter-in hybrid ute gross sales changed into as soon as delayed. In its first month the Shark 6 managed sixth general, pipping the Isuzu D-Max. Be conscious this dwelling.

Ford small print its saunter-in hybrid rival to the BYD Shark 6

• After years of data drip-feed, Ford has at final printed plump pricing and specifications for the saunter-in hybrid Ford Ranger. There’s clearly an creep for food for PHEV utes, but whether Ford can web in on the motion is one other quiz.

• There’s a huge range on provide from XLT neat by to fresh Stormtrak halo grade. Pricing begins at $71,990, before on-street costs, for the fabric upholstered and halogen headlight-geared up XLT. Wildtrak is $seventy nine,990 and Stormtrak $86,990.

• Some key variations between Ranger PHEV and the fresh Chinese language rivals consist of a 3.5-tonne braked towing capability and as much as 973kg payload (offering there’s no spare tyre fitted). EV driving range is 48km and outputs are 209kW and 690Nm.

Hardcore Subaru WRX tS Spec B is an STI-lite

• Kind you like carrying your hat backwards and going instant? Excuse the stereotype, however the Subaru WRX is serve in additional hardcore tS Spec B obtain that builds on the Club Spec puny model from 2024.

• Pricing is from $61,490, before on-street costs, and the WRX tS Spec B ratings linked upgrades to the Club Spec, equivalent to the worthy rear flit, Recaro bucket seats, 19-chase alloy wheels, Brembo brakes and stickier Bridgestone S007 tyres.

• Distinguishing this mannequin (and justifying the larger keep) are now not any-worth-option STI efficiency mufflers and — for the main time within the fresh WRX — adaptive dampers blended with a six-lumber manual transmission. No extra energy, though.

• Pre-orders for the WRX tS Spec B are start now.

Modern 700km driving range sedan takes aim at BMW i5, Audi A6 e-tron

• Volvo has unveiled its fresh top class huge electrical automobile, the ES90, with targets on the serve of the BMW i5, Audi A6 e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQE. Volvo doesn’t train it’s a sedan, liftback or SUV though it completely rides bigger than the worn S90 — it’s like an overgrown Polestar 2, in fact.

• It sounds as if ‘design driven’ with the flexibility to ‘evolve over time’, the ES90 is a truly diversified automobile for Volvo that’s in step with the linked SPA2 underpinnings of the EX90 and Polestar 3.

• Electrical stats are prominent: 700km of driving range from a 106kWh battery pack, whereas 800V structure skill instant charging can add as much as 300km range in 10 minutes.

• The ES90 is mountainous. Volvo hasn’t given exterior length yet — demand 5.0 metres or more — however the wheelbase is 3.1 metres for a range of minimal yet luxurious cabin dwelling. Assign apart a question to Volvo’s fresh electrical luxurious automobile to launch in gradual 2025.

Volkswagen’s electrical automobile for the people

• The ID.3 did not be pleased the revolutionary create of the Beetle, but Volkswagen says the ID.1 will when it launches in 2027. Here is the final piece in VW’s EV strategy.

• Designate is a key attribute, a aim of €20,000 (A$34,000) with production in Europe for Europe. The tubby angular design is punchy and affords the ID.EVERY1 understanding more presence than its small 3880mm length on the total would. The boot isn’t execrable both, at 305L.

• Stats are modest, with a 70kW entrance-mounted electrical motor obliging ideal 130km/h high speeds. A 250km driving range seals the deal as a metropolis automobile. The MEB entrance-wheel-drive platform will underpin a total of four VW gadgets in some unspecified time in the future including the ID.2 hatch and small SUVs which could be more to Australia’s style.

This has the MU-X shaking in its boots: 2025 Ford Everest Tremor review

• Manufacturing Specialist Thomas Space takes a stride within the fresh Ford Everest Tremor — an off-street centered model of Ford’s favorite 4×4 wagon that takes aim on the Toyota Prado Altitude.

• Tom praised the relative worth over the Sport V6, improved off-street capability and — pointless to teach — tricky appears, thanks to a butch visible treatment.

• A loss in payload, some missing parts in contrast with Ranger Tremor and expensive option programs ate into its excellence. Within the kill, the Everest Tremor is a provocative proposition within the market and a ethical different to the same outdated Prado.

Study: Tom’s plump review right here

The following tell of Automotive Records This day shall be printed on Friday 07 February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Current-automobile gross sales outcomes are in for February and the cracks are starting up to point out within the market.

Knowledge supplied by the federal chamber of automobile industries (FCAI) in its VFACTS document unearths most efficient 94,933 novel vehicles had been sold in February, down 9.6 percent on last Twelve months driven by horrified passenger and electrical automobile gross sales  — EVs are down 37 percent.

It’s no longer all doom and gloom, despite the real fact that, with creep-in hybrid vehicles exploding in recognition by 346 percent, essentially thanks to booming gross sales from Chinese impress BYD.

To now not dispute the announce quo has been fully disrupted. Toyota aloof ruled the roost in February with 18,832 gross sales followed by Mazda (8797) and Kia (6707).

Ford’s third space general is looking out precarious, its 6337 gross sales in February keep it within the lend a hand of Kia for the month; the incoming Tasman ute would possibly keep the hurt on Ford. Mitsubishi rounded out the tip 5 in Feb with 6119 gross sales.

Tesla would now not document its gross sales to the FCAI but EV Council gross sales outcomes point out a mountainous tumble in gross sales to 1592 from 5665 last Twelve months.

FCAI chief executive Tony Weber eminent unhurried electrical automobile gross sales sitting out of forms with the novel strict emissions targets. He also blamed charge-of-living pressures for the horrified novel-automobile market.

“We’re really two months into the Government’s Current Vehicle Efficiency Customary, and while the provide of battery electrical vehicles has risen dramatically, shopper inquire has fallen by 37 per cent this Twelve months compared with the first two months of 2024,” talked about Weber.

Australia’s most accepted novel vehicles in February

The Toyota RAV4 persisted its charge with 4405 gross sales and a solid first blueprint in February, surroundings the household SUV — which is thanks to discover modified next Twelve months — up for first announce honours in 2025.

Barely manner within the lend a hand of at 4040 gross sales became the Ford Ranger ute, followed by the Toyota HiLux. The Toyota Prado 4×4 became one among two very novel devices within the tip 10 with an spectacular 2723 gross sales in February, followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander mid-size SUV.

The monumental upset to the twin cab announce quo became the success of the BYD Shark 6 creep-in hybrid ute.

Executives at importer EV Utter had been talking a monumental sport but this proves — no longer lower than in the starting up — there’s monumental inquire for this automobile. It secured 2026 gross sales and sixth announce with most efficient one variant.

Then came the well-liked array of utes and household SUVs including theIsuzu D-Max (2022), Mazda CX-5 (1932) and Kia Sportage (1927).

Blurring the traces between diminutive and medium SUVs appears to be like to be paying off for the novel Hyundai Kona, which managed an spectacular 1889 gross sales.

Most popular manufacturers Twelve months-to-date in 2025

1. Toyota — 37,256
2. Mazda — 17,119
3. Ford — 13,167
4. Kia — 12,427
5. Mitsubishi — 11,800
6. Hyundai — 11,473
7. MG — 7479
8. GWM — 7186
9. Nissan — 6594
10. Subaru — 6435

Most popular vehicles in February 2025

1. Toyota RAV4 — 4405
2. Ford Ranger — 4040
3. Toyota HiLux — 3616
4. Toyota Prado — 2723
5. Mitsubishi outlander — 2385
6. BYD Shark 6 — 2026
7. Isuzu D-Max — 2022
8. Mazda CX-5 — 1932
9. Kia Sportage — 1927
10. Hyundai Kona — 1889

Thanks for joining us this Tuesday March 4th 2025. Jeep Cherokee eliminated from sale in Australia, GWM Tank 300 now available with turbo-diesel energy plant, and extra.

Browse this plot back:

• Jeep Grand Cherokee axed from the Australian market
• GWM Tank 300 now available with turbo-diesel energy
• Audi to sneak preview original S6 E-Tron Sportback at EV tournament in Sydney
• Xpeng G6 to ranking facelift for 2025

Jeep Grand Cherokee axed from sale in Australia

• The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been “paused” from local sale, in step with Stellantis Australia, shedding by the wayside of the local Jeep line-up after three decades of sale.

• The most contemporary fifth-period ‘WL’ has no longer loved wherever advance the gross sales success of its forebear, the ‘WK2’, which used to be once the greatest-selling orderly SUV in Australia a decade ago (around 16,600 models in 2014 – supplanting Toyota Prado from the crown.

• The autumn from grace for Grand Cherokee is no longer unique to Australia, with records that the production of the US-constructed model will discontinuance for all-loyal-hand-drive markets.

• There may maybe be not a indication that Jeep’s assorted models in Avenger, Compass, Wrangler and Gladiator are coping with the slice from local showrooms.

GWM Tank 300 now available with turbo-diesel energy plant

• GWM Australia has released a turbo-diesel risk for its Tank 300 4×4 wagon line-up, with oiler bolstering ranks alongside the present turbo-petrol and petrol hybrid variants.

• The diesel fitted is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder unit outputting 135kW and 480Nm. Paired with a 9-tempo computerized and four-wheel drive. Oiler energy united states of americaTank 300’s braked towing capability from 2500kg in all assorted powertrains to three tonnes in the diesel.

• The diesel choices open with the familiar Lux grade, priced from $47,990 driveaway, with a facets do mirroring the petrol-based mostly variants.

• It’s a identical fable for the high-spec Ultra that, at $51,990 driveaway, neatly splits its Ultra-grade petrol and hybrid stablemates on pricing. It’s available to pronounce now.

Audi debuting S6 E-Tron in Sydney this weekend

• Audi is giving Aussie traders a “sneak preview” of the original S6 E-Tron utterly electric efficiency model at the All the pieces Electrical display masks in Sydney this weekend.

• On demonstrate may maybe presumably presumably be the five-door Sportback version, though an Avant wagon is also offered in some world markets.

• In European spec, the S6 E-Tron gives a 405kW height and is derived with a 0-100km/h claim of 3.9sec for the Sportback. Vary is claimed to be as remarkable as 670kms in optimum European configuration.

• The S6 E-Tron joins novices to local showrooms in the slight Q4 and mid-measurement Q6 and SQ6 E-tron SUVs at the Sydney display masks, alongside 13 assorted electric model variants from sister producers Volkswagen, Skoda and Cupra.

Xpeng G6 gets facelifted months after Aussie debut

• The XPeng G6 midsize electric SUV has been facelifted in its China hometown loyal months after the starting up of the emblem and (pre-facelifted) model in Australia.

• A key player in the latest onslaught of Chinese-branded electric SUVs to raise stop on Tesla Model Y, the refreshed G6 gets subtly revised styling out of doors, original wheels and revamped tech interior – in conjunction with a increased 15.6-hurry media gadget – as key upgrades.

• Battery efficiency has improved, with the China market versions lifting entry battery output to 68.5kWh (from 66kWh) and the high-grade unit now 87.5kWh (up from 80.8kWh).

• With out a doubt certain for local showroom, it’s but unclear what assorted technical or specification upgrades the Aussie versions will salvage over the latest guise, which begins from $54,800 prior to on-roads.

The next plot back of Car Recordsdata At the moment will be printed on Wednesday Twenty fifth February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for becoming a member of us on Monday March 3rd. Kia printed its electric van and decrease-notice EV2, unique Chinese language notice confirms quirky ute, Volkswagen delivers on notice promise and the BYD Shark swims through ANCAP security finding out with 5 stars.

Browse this enviornment:

• Kia’s electric automobile offensive continues
• New Chinese language notice’s quirky ‘ute’ confirmed
• Volkswagen’s Tesla Mannequin Y rival priced
• Stout security marks for BYD Shark 6 walk-in hybrid
• MU-X will get a makeover: 2025 Isuzu MU-X review

Kia’s electric automobile offensive continues

• Kia has proven off its decrease-notice EV2 hatchback and doubtlessly progressive PV5 electric van. The future production model of the EV2 is headed to Europe but an Australian initiating is no longer doubtless as a result of the notice sourcing production from Slovakia.

• The PV5 is on Kia’s desire-list but is no longer confirmed for our market. Varied configurations including cargo van, folks mover and more may perchance be on hand and Kia seems to be to revolutionise the configurability of commercial vehicles. Pricing seems to be engaging in the UK, the save it’s parity with a diesel Ford Transit.

New Chinese language notice’s quirky ‘ute’ confirmed

• Gain you ever well-known the cosy interior of a 5-seat SUV fused with the practicality of a ute? Smartly, Deepal can agree with proper what you desire. Meet the model-bending E07, with a tray-love boot and sliding glass roof.

• Stats are involving convincing, the E07 punching out up to 440kW and 645Nm in twin-motor EV guise. A 90kWh battery pack must peaceable permit for 520km driving range (WLTP blended).

• Also coming this year is S05, which is a more old-fashioned and smaller sibling of the S07 coupe-love SUV. Single and twin motor models are on hand in a international country. Ask an even more moderately priced notice for the 4.6-metre prolonged SUV. Sub $50K? It’s doubtless.

Volkswagen’s Tesla Mannequin Y rival priced

• A notice shock in a proper come, Volkswagen has delivered on its promise of bringing an electric family automobile in at notice parity with petrol. The 210kW rear-force ID.4 Decent starts at $59,990 before on-street costs, $600 decrease than a Tiguan 162TSI R-Line.

• Usual equipment is involving intensive, including adaptive Matrix LED headlights, 19-crawl alloy wheels, a 12.9-crawl multimedia touchscreen, glass roof and more.

• A flagship GTX variant with 250kW is on hand in the ID.5 coupe-love body model. Sales initiating in mid-2025 and more variants join in July.

Stout security marks for BYD Shark 6 walk-in hybrid

• The BYD Shark 6 walk-in hybrid ute has been awarded 5 stars in ANCAP security finding out.

• Both baby and adult occupant protection in the match of a shatter was most steadily praised by the impartial security finding out body, as were many of the protection abet facets. The Shark was knocked down a few facets as a result of unlucky compatibility with numerous vehicles.

MU-X will get a makeover: 2025 Isuzu MU-X review

• Contributor Iain Curry takes a peep on the unique Isuzu MU-X range which has been facelifted, revised and given a brand unique X-Terrain flagship off-roader.

• Iain praised the X-Terrain’s more challenging seems to be, while the relaxation of the range has improved on-street manners and driver-abet facets. Off-street functionality stays very worthy intact.

• Much less spectacular is the engine, lacking instruments in the tip trims and a notice hike. Better than Prado and Everest? A comparison may perchance be well-known to discover.

The next enviornment of Automobile Records On the present time may perchance be published on Tuesday 4th February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for becoming a member of us on February Twenty seventh. Chinese language imprint BYD has outlined why its creep-in hybrid ute shall be a success, Australia has a novel cheapest EV (for now…), novel Golf pricing and BYD mulls Kluger killer.

Browse this issue:

• Why GWM’s creep-in ute will beat the BYD Shark 6
• Volkswagen’s updated little car icon priced for Australia
• Hyundai Santa Fe rival on BYD’s radar because it plans to double gross sales
• Australia’s novel cheapest electric SUV… for now
• GWM Cannon 2025 reviewed

Why GWM’s creep-in ute will beat the BYD Shark 6

• Top brass at BYD claims its Hi4T all-wheel-pressure system fitted to the Cannon Alpha creep-in hybrid is superior to the BYD Shark for off-avenue functionality and towing, thanks to physically locking differentials.

• With impressive outputs of 300kW and 750Nm alongside with 110km EV-totally using vary, the Cannon Alpha creep-in hybrid will lunge on sale in Australia in April from $63,990 pressure-away. Comparison coming? You bet.

Volkswagen’s updated little car icon priced for Australia

• The Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf vary has been priced for Australia with a three-solid core vary from $38,690 for the novel entry-degree Lifestyles. The subsequent neat up is the Vogue at $43,690 and the R-Line stays the non-efficiency flagship for $47,990, all earlier than on-avenue costs.

• Next up its the like a flash ones, with the revised and punchier 195kW GTI hot hatch priced from $58,990, whereas the flagship AWD R moreover gets a vitality enhance to 245kW for $70,990.

• All Golfs secure pleasure from revised suspension tuning, extra energizing skills internal and a streamlined set up of alternatives packs.

Hyundai Santa Fe rival on BYD’s radar because it plans to double gross sales

• BYD is pondering like a flash growth, with plans to souble gross sales again in 2025. How will it pause this? Extra and additional relevant product.

• “No topic is straight available in China now we personal to carry to Australia – now we personal to bear out [BYD’s] product portfolio because we don’t personal ample product… Now we personal to be sure now we personal a paunchy product portfolio,” talked about EVDirect CEO David Smitherman.

• Following the lower-value Atto 2 and sumptuous growth with novel Denza imprint, a three-row family SUV is next on Smitherman’s radar as a rival to the Toyota Kluger and Hyundai Santa Fe.

Australia’s novel cheapest electric SUV… for now

• For cheeky bragging rights, MG has slashed $14,000 from the associated fee of the latest ZS EV, making it $36,888 pressure-away — a mere $102 of bucks below the Chery Omoda E5.

• MG has lower the retail value to particular original stock of the ZS EV sooner than its S5 substitute that’s related to the MG4 hatchback.

GWM Cannon 2025 reviewed

• Production specialist Tom Space published his overview of the facelifted GWM Cannon, reflecting on currently updates that has sought to make stronger the total enchantment of this funds ute.

• Tom praised the Cannon’s solid fee proposition, shift to a gruntier 2.4L turbo-diesel engine and the bolstered towing skill that now caps the restrict at 3.5-tonnes

• On the opposite hand he raised considerations with the final dash and refinement and some maintain quality considerations with the ute.

• Ultimatley Tom chanced on that the Cannon used to be quiet real fee for the fee and ute owners would pause well to check pressure the Chinese language ute earlier than taking a explore at extra costly alternatives.

Thanks for becoming a member of us on Monday, February 24th 2025. Mercedes-Benz presentations off a battery-tech leap forward, we’ve imagined the recent 2026 Toyota RAV4 hybrid, Kia’s EV masterplan nears completion and Geely’s merely-launched EX5 becomes note-leader in its segment.

Browse this order:

• The 1000km battery leap forward
• Australia’s recent most attention-grabbing-promoting car previewed: 2026 Toyota RAV4 render
• Kia’s EV masterplan is nearly full with recent electric van
• Tesla Mannequin Y’s latest nightmare: Geely confirms severely low-note EX5 pricing
• 2025 Geely EX5 reviewed

The 1000km battery leap forward

• Mercedes-Benz and battery associate Factorial birth proper-world tests of solid-voice batteries in an EQS mule. Search info from an EQXX notion-inspired fashion car next to push skills extra.

• Lengthy thought to be as the silver bullet to electric car possession, the present prototype guarantees 25 per cent more fluctuate in the identical size and weight battery, which device 1000km of riding range will soon turn into reality.

• Big hasty charging and minimal fire possibility are various advantages. Search info from to leer the tech at last in  Benz’s upcoming passenger vehicles earlier than 2030.

Australia’s recent most attention-grabbing-promoting car previewed: 2026 Toyota RAV4 render

• Odd Chasing Vehicles renders explore the following-gen 2026 Toyota RAV4 rob form with Toyota’s latest ‘Hammerhead’ maintain language and blockier body.

• Deliveries expected to originate in 2026 on a modified version of present RAV4’s ‘GA-Okay’ platform with either improved 2.5-litre petrol-electric or most likely all-recent down-sized turbo-petrol hybrid.

• Other upgrades must composed encompass revamped cabin skills, enhanced security, refined creep and coping with. With ute competition handiest rising, that is RAV4’s runway to rob Australia’s most attention-grabbing-promoting recent-car honours.

Kia’s EV masterplan is nearly full with recent electric van

• With all the pieces from decrease-note itsy-bitsy EVs to seven-seat household trucksters and an electrical ute either in the pipeline or on sale, Kia has now added the PV5, a battery-powered van and folk mover to clip the VW ID.Buzz’s wings.

• The PV5 will commence this year with AI-controlled dispatch diagram, 400-volt EV architecture, and hundreds body configurations. Futuristic looks are guaranteed with more critical points due on the Twenty seventh.

Tesla Mannequin Y’s latest nightmare: Geely confirms severely low-note EX5 pricing

• Australia’s latest Tesla Mannequin Y rival had its loyal pricing leaked on industry voice Redbook, with the build confirming the interesting starting note for the 430km riding fluctuate electric mid-size SUV.

• At $43,490 for entry-stage Entire and $47,490 for prime-spec EX5 Inspire (each and every earlier than on-boulevard costs), Geely’s pricing no longer handiest undercuts the Leapmotor C10, Deepal S07 and Tesla Mannequin Y, but the recent Chinese build’s outdated $49-55K info.

2025 Geely EX5 reviewed

• Deputy editor Curt Dupriez attended the commence of the Geely EX5, but every other recent electric mid-size SUV from China with its search on the Tesla Mannequin Y.

• Curt renowned how many aspects are packed into the up-spec EX5 Inspire, along with a broad second row, soft creep and interior presentation.

• Much less beautiful had been the EX5’s many sub-menus, slack charging, outdated boulevard-holding and a careless person interface.

• Now all of us know the worth, it’s that you just’d also agree with the niggles will even be forgiven for the sheer amount of steel on offer. A protracted drive in future will confirm issues.

Review: Read Here

The next order of Automobile News Nowadays shall be printed on Tuesday 25 February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for joining us this Friday February 21st 2025. Škoda teases unique-generation Kodiaq Decide and Sportsline variants, Isuzu expands MU-X line-up with introduction of facelifted 2025 gadgets.

Browse this scheme back:

• Škoda teases unique-generation Kodiaq Decide and Sportsline SUV
• Isuzu expands MU-X line-up with introduction of facelifted 2025 gadgets
• Subaru Australia debuts the handbook WRX AWD tS Spec B
• Polestar adds keys to Apple Pockets following tool replace
• 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron reviewed

Škoda teases unique-generation Kodiaq Decide and Sportline SUV

• Decide and Sportline versions of the 2025 2d-generation Škoda Kodiaq SUV would perchance be entering showrooms unhurried subsequent month, consistent with an knowledgeable press birth.

• The Decide replaces the outgoing Vogue because the entry grade, fitting 19-race wheels and a brand unique-gen 13-race media system.

• The mid-fluctuate Sportline u.s.wheel dimension to 20 inches and adds dynamic rear indicators, sport seats, driving profile resolution, top price sound.

• Powered by a 140kW 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four, the Kodiaq fits a seven-tempo dual-clutch gearbox and all-wheel pressure. Additional particulars would perchance be launched closer to birth.

Isuzu expands MU-X line-up with introduction of facelifted 2025 gadgets

• Isuzu has correct revealed the up as a lot as now 2025 MU-X, at a up-to-the-minute birth event (fat protection on the vogue). While we obtained’t leer extra great engines, or enormous mechanical changes, interior and exterior revisions scheme up the huge majority of most up-to-date recordsdata.

• Pricing for the 2025 MU-X starts from $56,990 for the rear-wheel pressure 1.9L LS-M, and tops out at $73,990 pressure-away for the 4×4 3.0L powered X-Terrain.

• The addition of the X-Terrain variant is a astronomical replace for the 2025 MU-X wagon fluctuate, a first for the MU-X nameplate after the recipe become as soon as ported over from the D-Max ute fluctuate.

• The X-Terrain version is consistent with the LS-T MU-X, and receives bespoke exterior and interior updates, along side leather-accented upholstery and a extra aggressive grille make. This automobile is geared toward prospects looking a succesful off-roader that might perchance well also be effectively-appointed functions luminous.

Subaru Australia debuts the handbook WRX AWD tS Spec B

• Subaru Australia has bolstered its turbo all-paw WRX mannequin with a brand unique AWD tS Spec B variant added for 2025.

• Teach to the unique variant are matte grey 19-race wheels, Brembo brakes with ventilated discs, Recaro entrance seats and a large, used-college vogue boot spoiler.

• The AWD tS Spec B is powered by the acquainted 2.4-litre turbo boxer engine backed by a six-tempo handbook gearbox. While Subaru hasn’t highlighted any powertrain upgrades to the variant, the importer has revealed that an STI Performance muffler system would perchance be supplied optionally.

• Pricing and closing specs are yet to be confirmed, nevertheless outlay is expected to roam north of $60K given the 2024 tS automatic listed for $57,990.

Polestar adds keys to Apple Pockets following tool replace

• Following an over-the-air (OTA) tool replace, Polestar 3 owners are in actual fact in a position to order their Apple Pockets for the automobile’s key.

• This means the motive force will now have the option to robotically lock or release, apart from birth the automobile, with their iPhone or Apple Put a question to.

• You’ll even have the option to portion keys in Apple Pockets with as a lot as five completely different customers, making this a handy characteristic for households.

• This same feature is expected to roll out all the scheme in which thru completely different Polestar gadgets, initiating with the Polestar 4.

2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron reviewed

• Chasing Vehicles Deputy Editor, Curt Dupriez, had his 2025 Audi Q4 E-Tron review printed after attending the birth pressure event.

• Curt praised the quietness, refinement ranges and consolation supplied. He also took a shine to the bottle holders, while favouring the low-grade forty five in Sportback body form of the four on hand variants.

• He wasn’t so impressed with the soggy brake in actual fact feel, haptic contact controls and hefty curb weight on the opposite hand. Pricing for the 55 also appears overpriced.

• In announcing that, Curt’s conclusion become as soon as that out of every EV sitting under the Luxury Automotive Tax threshold, the Q4 E-Tron, in forty five guise, is likely the most finest if no longer the finest resolution obtainable as we yell.

The next scheme back of Automotive News At the current time would perchance be printed on Monday twenty fourth February at 4.30pm Sydney time.