Car industry

Thanks for joining us this Friday, March 14th 2025. Notably in car recordsdata on the present time: Mercedes-Benz CLA announced, Ferrari F80 premiers at Australian Formula 1 Sizable Prix, and BMW crowned handiest promoting luxurious model in Australia.

Browse this bother:

• 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA announced
• Ferrari F80 premiers at Australian Formula 1 Sizable Prix
• BMW Australia’s handiest promoting luxurious model for 2nd 365 days working
• Chevrolet Silverado pricing and specs updated for 2025

2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA announced

• Mercedes-Benz has announced small print with regards to their fresh CLA with plenty of adjustments along with transferring to all-electric and hybrid choices, in addition to switching the drivetrain from front- to rear- or all-wheel-drive.

• The electric model boasts nearly 800km of range (792km) on the on the total more comely WLTP cycle for the CLA 250+; a CLA 350 4Matic furthermore presents all-wheel-drive with somewhat less range at up to 771km.

• While the designate and positioning of the updated CLA are in the intervening time unclear, it locations competitors similar to the Tesla Mannequin 3 Lengthy Vary on discover, despite fresh updates that boosted range to 629km.

• The updated model is resulting from advance in Australia early subsequent 365 days.

Ferrari F80 premiers at Australian Formula 1 Sizable Prix

• Attendees of the 2025 Formula 1 opening bolt were confirmed Maranello’s most modern creation , with Ferrari showcasing their F80 supercar on the Albert Park Sizable Prix Circuit.

• The occasion was as soon as hosted by Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, with over 400 punters in attendance to rob their first stumble on at what Ferrari says is their most highly effective avenue car ever.

• “It’s crazy. It’s such an unimaginable car. I fancy the stumble on of it, and ought to you drive it, it feels so light. And that’s of path what strikes me. I of path, of path enjoyed it,” talked about Charles Leclerc.

• Specs clever, the vehicle will streak from 0-100km/hr in a claimed 2.15 seconds, Ferrari furthermore says the F80 will accomplish 0-200km/hr in 5.75 seconds, with a V6 hybrid powertrain producing 1200hp.

BMW Australia’s handiest promoting luxurious automobile model for 2nd 365 days working

• For the 2nd 365 days in a row, BMW is the most effective promoting top price automobile model in Australia.

• To celebrate the occasion, 49 BMW sellers from around Australia attended a Sydney based fully mostly awards evening.

• Awards were handed out for varied category winners, with the tip space of BMW supplier of the 365 days Main Metro, going to South Yarra BMW.

• “Our independently owned sellers possess all over as soon as more demonstrated their dedication to excellence, playing a pivotal feature in BMW affirming its management place. Their efforts, specifically in riding electric vehicle adoption, give a boost to our shared imaginative and prescient for sustainable mobility,” talked about BMW CEO Wolfgang Buechel.

Chevrolet Silverado pricing and specs updated for 2025

• For 2025, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD has obtained fresh styling and create updates, in addition to fresh pricing. Spoiler alert, it’s no longer more affordable than final 365 days.

• Updates appear to be mainly visual, with out a engine or driveline updates. The 2500 HD boasts a 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel motor that pushes out 350kW and 1322Nm, so we are in a position to let that bolt…

• These updates encompass a fresh stumble on interior, blacked out front-and-rear bumpers, recovery hooks and 20-plug black alloy wheels.

• Pricing has elevated when when in contrast with 2024 numbers, with the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD now initiating at $166,500 before on-avenue costs. The smaller Silverado 1500 ZR2 and LTZ Top price Tech Pack are being priced at $141, 500 and $130,500 respectively.

The next bother of Automobile News At present would possibly be printed on Monday 17th March at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for becoming a member of us this Thursday, March 13th 2025. Particularly in automobile news at present: Mercedes-AMG launches unusual dash-in E Fifty three Down Underneath, and Porsche considers an ICE SUV successor to Macan.

Browse this allege:

• Mercedes-AMG E Fifty three Hybrid 4Matic+ launched in Australia
• Porsche plans a peculiar ICE successor to the Macan
• Mercedes-Benz’s electric G-Wagen detailed for Australia
• Gazoo Racing to originate bigger involvement with Toyota production automobiles
• Reviewed: 2024 Mini Aceman SE ‘a merely sizzling-hatch’

Mercedes-AMG E Fifty three Hybrid 4Matic+ launched in Australia

• A peculiar four-door neat sedan from Mercedes-AMG is on sale in Australia, and it’s a dash-in hybrid! The unusual E Fifty three Hybrid 4Matic+ is powered by a turbocharged 3.0L straight-six petrol engine and a single electric motor, which is constructed-in into the auto’s 9-plod used automated.

• The E Fifty three has mixed outputs of 450kW/750Nm, and is priced from $199,900 sooner than on-boulevard costs. That’s $60,000 lower than its extra-great 535kW/1,000Nm key rival, the BMW M5 hybrid.

• The dash-in hybrid system of AMG’s unusual E Fifty three has greatly improved mixed gasoline consumption over the old mannequin: From 9.2L/100km to a claimed 1.7L/100km. The unusual E Fifty three additionally boasts up to 100km (NEDC) of electric-finest utilizing vary.

• Cosmetically, the unusual E Fifty three is packaged with an air-dash with the circulation focused AMG bodykit, 20-run alloy wheels, and ducktail spoiler. Fashioned performance enhancements encompass adaptive adjustable damping and an AMG-spec 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

Porsche thought a peculiar ICE successor to the Macan

• Porsche has published a unusual ICE-powered SUV would possibly well be on the playing cards for the designate, after a leisurely uptake to EVs in Europe, in retaining with a checklist by Autocar. This comes in the wake of Stuttgart having ceased production of all ICE variants of the Macan, with remaining closing stock provided by to the tip of 2025.
• CEO of Porsche Oliver Blume is quoted as confirming a peculiar “Porsche-identical old SUV” mannequin is in pattern for the designate throughout the company’s annual media convention. Alternatively, no particular details in regards to the unusual mannequin possess but been published.

• The currently-developed Macan EV is constructed on the Porsche/Audi joint carrying out Top price Platform Electrical (PPE) structure, making the construct largely harmful to transform to ICE or hybrid vitality. This has resulted in speculation that a peculiar Porsche SUV will most likely be constructed on the in an analogous draw developed Top price Platform Combustion (PPC), as outmoded for the Audi Q5.

• If Porsche’s subsequent ICE SUV is to advance in a the same medium size to the Macan, it is typically a key contender in opposition to the same top class SUVs, chiefly the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

Mercedes-Benz electric G-Wagen in Australia

• Mercedes-Benz has confirmed its electric G-Class – aka G-Wagen – will most likely be provided in Australia with a ’G 580’ moniker. Importantly, the EV 4×4 appears to advance with a wealth of abilities making sure indecent off-boulevard capabilities.
• The G 580 parts a gargantuan 116kWh battery and four electric motors independently mounted for particular person wheels. It produces an excellent 432kW and 1164Nm. Its NEDC vary claim is 567km.

• Priced from $249,900 sooner than on-boulevard costs, the G 580’s closest electric opponents are softroaders indulge in the (outgoing) $140,090 Audi Q8 E-tron and $142,900 BMW iX. Alternatively, neither competitor is engineered namely for all-terrain functionality indulge in the Benz is.
• G 580 parts encompass all-terrain-form honest torque vectoring to every wheel, tank-flip capabilities, and a most water wading depth of 850mm.

Gazoo Racing to originate bigger involvement with Toyota production automobiles

• Toyota’s in-condominium performance designate Gazoo Racing (TGR) has confirmed this would possibly additionally be guilty for pattern and implementation of each a 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines to be outmoded in Toyota’s future performance and industrial automobiles.

• TGR Head of Product Bart Eelen launched to the media that the subsequent generation of business Toyota four-cylinders would possibly possess a WRC flavour. TGR aims to manufacture 295kW with its subsequent-generation four-cylinder structure with the support of hybrid capabilities.

• The four-cylinder in quiz, currently in pattern, parts a fast piston stroke and compact block, making for an effortless to equipment powerplant with a low centre of gravity.
• TGR’s first prototype engine is codenamed the ‘G20E’ and will originate its first public look in the Mountainous Taikyu bustle sequence, which begins at Motegi Circuit in Japan on March 22 and 23.

Mini Aceman SE reviewed

• Chasing Vehicles founder Tom Baker’s video assessment of the 2025 Mini Aceman SE became published, and entails a explore on the auto’s sizzling-hatch dynamics and underrated residing.
• Baker became speedily to outline the apt sizzling-hatch potential of the Aceman SE hidden below a gradual-roader SUV veil. The Aceman is a punchy, dynamic and peppy five-door with an provocative but manageable 160kW and 330Nm.

• Sizzling-hatch prowess does possess its downsides nonetheless. The company run of the Aceman SE is purported to be a compromise of kinds for its impressive dynamic handling.
• All in all, the Mini Aceman SE finds itself to be the ideal fun-filled runaround or 2d automobile. It’s very supreme for a keen weekend drive, provided concessions are made around its minute circa-351km vary.

READ: Mini Aceman SE 2025 Overview

WATCH: Mini’s funky five-door is a apt electro-sizzling hatch (Mini Aceman SE 2025 Overview)

The subsequent allege of Automobile News This day will most likely be published on Friday 14th March at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for becoming a member of us this Wednesday March 12th 2025. Toyota flips the EV tale in Europe, Geely confirms fresh fashions and after-gross sales toughen plans, Nissan marches out CEO, fresh entry grade to smartly-liked Mercedes-Benz model priced, and more.

Browse this ache:

• Toyota’s fresh 600km driving differ electric car and bZ4X update
• Unique ‘e-book’ transmission for Lexus RZ electric car
• Geely all-however confirms BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander rival
• Nissan marches out Boss after merger stalls
• Current Mercedes-Benz model differ expands with fresh entry grade
• 2025 Jaecoo J7 Song assessment

Toyota’s fresh 600km driving differ electric car bZ4x update

• The fresh C-HR+ is Toyota’s most modern electric car with an take into tale on European growth. Despite the truth that it borrows a familiar title in preference to ‘bZ4X’ variation, the C-HR+ has nothing to enact with the hybrid C-HR, working on assorted underpinnings and a longer 2750mm wheelbase.

• Toyota guarantees up to 600km of driving differ with the bigger 77kWh battery pack and 165kW motor optioned. Smaller than the bZ4X, the C-HR+ is a rival for the BYD Atto 3, Hyundai Kona electric, Renault Megane E-tech and fresh Kia EV3. An Australian arrival is probably going, however no longer confirmed — neither is pricing.

• Starting up with fresh styling and fender designs, the Toyota bZ4X will get the overhaul it wished. Unsuitable battery size swells to 74.7kWh while energy jumps from 150kW to 165kW in the front-drive model, yet the fresh motors also type the bZ4X more efficient.

• Toyota Australia hasn’t confirmed differ enhancements for our market however in the UK the front-drive model can plod 572km on the WLTP cycle — an mountainous enchancment from the present 411km. AWD variations also fetch a further 92kW, boosting outputs to 252kW and cutting the 0-100km/h dawdle to 5.1 seconds. It’ll advance right here in Q4.

Unique ‘e-book’ transmission for Lexus RZ electric car

• Lexus has borrowed about a strategies and systems from Hyundai’s N division, enforcing eight simulated tools ratios managed by paddles on the relieve of the steering wheel on its fresh 300kW RZ 550e flagship ravishing. A steer-by-wire system with a ‘yoke’-fashion steering wheel shall be on hand.

• RZ’s transmission works in conjunction with newly developed simulated engine noises and guarantees “a deeper interplay with the automobile”. It works brilliantly in the 5 N, so we can’t wait to sample Toyota’s efforts.
• Apart from, the RZ will get a brand fresh, bigger battery for up to 500km driving differ in comparatively decrease powered 500e (280kW). The fresh Lexus RZ will land in Australia later this year.

Geely all-however confirms BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander rival

• At a media and dealer event remaining evening, Geely announced it’s bringing six fresh fashions to Australia over the next three years following its first, the EX5.

• Geely stopped fast of naming fashions however did repeat a sizzle reel of what perceived to be the Starship 7, a lunge-in hybrid mid-size SUV that might strike the Australian fresh-car market’s most smartly-liked phase — teach family names such because the Toyota RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander.

• Portion of a brand fresh skills of Chinese language lunge-in hybrids love BYD Sealion 6, the Starship 7’s particulars are spectacular: PHEV ‘EM-i’ powertrain with 1.5-litre petrol engine, 19kWh battery pack and 1400km combined driving differ; AI-assisted driving skills; and veritable luxury aspects. Demand Starship 7 pricing to be under $50K, if the $40,990 EX5 is any indication.

• Geely is talking a substantial game in Australia, promising over 100 bricks and mortar dealerships in the country and backing its first car with a seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. The Geely neighborhood also fully or partially owns Volvo, Lotus, Polestar, Zeekr, and Lynk & Co.

Nissan marches out CEO after merger stalls

• Following a failed merger with Honda, embattled Nissan has marched global CEO Makoto Uchida out of the doorways to fetch changed with the charismatic Ivan Espinosa from 1 April. Espinosa used to be beforehand Nissan’s Vp, Product Method & Planning.

• Talks between Nissan and Honda resulted in January 2025 after Nissan used to be unhappy with the deal, with Honda taking the lead because the more profitable of the two. It’s understood Honda might additionally rethink the tie-up with a brand fresh CEO at Nissan.

• Ivan Espinosa will grow to be the fourth assorted Nissan since Carlos Ghosn — Le Cost Killer — used to be arrested in 2018 and later escaped to Lebanon. Ghosn has persevered to protest on Nissan’s space.

Current Mercedes-Benz model differ expands with fresh entry grade

• Mercedes-Benz has added a brand fresh entry grade to its smartly-liked GLC differ.

• The EQC 200 is powered by a 150kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder accumulated-hybrid and affords a brand fresh $95,500 drive-away entry present the 5-seat family SUV differ to war the BMW X3 20 ($86,100, earlier than on-road prices).

• The GLC 200 is provided with adaptive LED headlights, 19-walk alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, 360-level camera, consolation seats with four-intention lumbar toughen and Artico artificial leather upholstery. A stout suite of safety tools is same outdated.

• A range of packs and suggestions are on hand including the Plus Equipment ($7600) with Burmester Sound, upgraded Riding Assistance, and augmented reality head-up present; the Sport Equipment ($6000) with 20-walk alloy wheels, colour-coded wheelarches, and AMG Line exterior accomplish; and the $1300 Evening Equipment that blacks out the skin trims and wheels.

2025 Jaecoo J7 Song assessment

• No, Chasing Autos contributor Nathan Ponchard didn’t take a look at a family SUV on a racetrack, that’s the ravishing title of the mid-spec Jaecoo J7 lunge-in hybrid SUV, a rival for the BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

• Impressed by the real exterior styling, cushy seats, create quality, fee for money and decent performance, Ponchard wasn’t ready at hand out a closing verdict after the fast preview drive.

• Questions live about the inconsistent steering feel, intrusive safety aids, suspension tuning, and why Jaecoo — Chery’s luxury impress — skipped a peak-adjustable passenger seat.

• Be taught the stout assessment here

The following ache of Automobile Recordsdata Recently will likely be printed on Thursday 13 March at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for becoming a member of us this Tuesday March 11th 2025. Mazda expands the CX-5 fluctuate with a weird front-wheel-power probability, Kia lobs pricing and specs for EV3 electrical minute SUV, and extra.

Browse this difficulty:

• Mazda expands the CX-5 fluctuate with unusual front wheel power probability
• Kia unearths pricing and spec for electrical EV3 minute SUV
• Hyundai Australia publicizes Don Romano as President and CEO
• Tesla stocks descend Forty five percent since December
• 2025 BMW X3 xDrive overview

Mazda expands CX-5 fluctuate with unusual front-wheel-power probability

• Mazda Australia has lawful announced an growth of the CX-5 fluctuate, their most smartly-favored automobile, with a weird front-wheel power probability within the G25 Touring FWD.

• This growth capability there are three FWD variants within the CX-5 fluctuate. Maxx, Sport and Touring. The unusual front-power Touring grade in actuality replaces the G25 Maxx Sport AWD

• All Touring spec variants will now come with Adaptive Front Lighting Scheme, moreover Cruising and Net site traffic Give a boost to.

• Pricing is but to be announced, nevertheless it surely is reported we are in a position to gape the 2025 CX-5 Touring FWD in Australian dealerships in June 2025.

Kia EV3 minute electrical SUV to begin within the community from $47,600 RRP

• Kia Australia has confirmed pricing and specs for the upcoming EV3 minute SUV, basically the most practical electrical line-up within the importer’s stables.

• The EV3 enters at $47,600 list for the Air Usual Differ and tops out at $63,950 list for the flagship GT-Line. Rounding out the four-variant line-up are the Air Long Differ at $53,315 list and the mid-grade Earth Long Differ at $58,600 earlier than on-roads.

• Built off the Hyundai Group’s E-GMP 400-volt platform, all variants fit a 150kW/283Nm front-power powertrain, with all nevertheless the 58.3kWh (55kWh useable) entry grade fitting an 81.4kWh (78kWh useable) battery.

• The fluctuate-chief is the Air La 604km WLTP claimed, with both the enormous-battery Earth and GT-Line versions sharing a 563km WLTP figure. The Air SR peaks at a extra modest 436km WLTP. Verify out our devoted pricing and specs tale for a deeper rundown.

Hyundai Australia publicizes Don Romano as President and CEO

• With 40 years of automobile industry ride, Don Romano has lawful been announced as Hyundai Motor Firm Australia’s Chief Govt Officer.

• Mr Romano is situation to soak up the pronounce efficient directly, changing contemporary CEO, Ted Lee, who will remain in Australia in an Govt Give a boost to characteristic after his three-year stint as CEO.

• Don Romano will oversee both Hyundai and Genesis as fragment of his unusual characteristic, after 10 years serving as President and CEO of Hyundai Canada.

• “It’s an honour to put up for Hyundai and Genesis in Australia and the broader Asia Pacific pronounce – Australia is one in every of basically the most challenging automobile markets on earth,”  says Mr Romano.

Tesla stocks descend Forty five percent since December

• In step with a contemporary document by Reuters, Tesla stock has fallen a colossal Forty five percent since reaching a high point in valuation of $1.5 trillion greenbacks on December 17.

• Shares enjoy furthermore dropped 15 percent, making it the worst performing Usual and Uncomfortable 500 (S&P 500) the day old to this.

• Tesla’s automobile-basically basically based mostly industry makes up the overwhelming majority of income for the firm. Falling automobile sales had been widely blamed on Tesla boss Elon Musk’s elevated involvement with the geo-political panorama.

• Rising rivals within the house is reported to furthermore play a fraction in this decline, with extra practical EV choices flooding world markets, at the side of Australia. Tesla has furthermore not released a weird mannequin since the Cybertruck – which we unruffled can’t receive entry to in Australia.

2025 BMW X3 xDrive overview

• Chasing Vehicles contributor Nathan Ponchard has lawful performed reviewing BMW’s fourth-skills X3, striking  the 20 xDrive variant via its paces.

• Nathan loved the staunch looking out exterior styling, impressive dynamics and total refinement of the deplorable version of the unusual ‘G45’ SUV.

• He furthermore learned the automobile efficient to run, and lawful a straightforward automobile to dwell with, whereas providing improved rate for cash as successfully.

• Nonetheless, Ponchard reckons the interior plastics would possibly perhaps well lift out with some enchancment and the deplorable ‘20’ engine would possibly perhaps well lift out with extra energy.

• Read the total overview here

The subsequent difficulty of Vehicle Recordsdata This day will likely be published on Wednesday 12th March at 4.30pm Sydney time.

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.