Future cars

Thanks for becoming a member of us this Thursday, Can even just Twenty second, 2025. Particularly in automotive info on the present time: Tesla CEO Elon Musk commits to 5 extra years on the helm, and Toyota CEO declares that automobiles that aren’t fun, aren’t to be concept of automobiles at all!

Browse this effect:

• Elon Musk locks in 5 extra years as Tesla CEO
• Toyota CEO declares “fun automobiles” crucial
• Ford provides ‘Gloomy Edition’ to Everest fluctuate
• New Nissan Micra no likelihood for Australia
• …
• 2025 Mini JCW: total fluctuate reviewed!

Elon Musk locks in 5 extra years as Tesla CEO

• Tesla’s controversial CEO Elon Musk has committed to at least 5 extra years on the helm of the company amid a world gross sales hotfoot, largely blamed on impacts of his involvement in US and world politics.
• Talking on the Qatar Financial Discussion board, Musk denied most modern experiences that the Tesla board changed into once taking a undercover agent to oust him from the role and mentioned the company changed into once already turning its fortunes around.

• Musk reiterated his design to utilize much less time dabbling in geopolitics and extra time at Tesla and SpaceX, answering “yes” when asked if he deliberate to raise on because the CEO of the primitive for at least the next 5 years.
• Whereas Tesla gross sales proceed to poke around the enviornment, Musk pointed to a rebound in Tesla’s inventory rate as his measure of overall success.
• It follows most modern strikes by Tesla, similar to its AI tasks and unique self-riding Robotaxi, that it guarantees will provide substantial commercial positive aspects for shoppers one day.

Toyota CEO declares “fun automobiles’ crucial

• Talking on the originate of the sixth-abilities Toyota RAV4, company CEO Koji Sato has declared that “a automotive is no longer a automotive if it’s no longer fun”.
• It’s an announcement harking motivate to the “no extra dumb automobiles” quote from Toyota chairman and primitive CEO Akio Toyoda motivate in 2017, which many show cloak as a step swap within the philosophy of its automotive lineup, that turned vastly extra fun to force as unique generations arrived.

• Sato mentioned the famously conservative manufacturer “can now no longer sell automobiles factual with model updates, a minute bit better gas effectivity, or unique designs”, adding, “unless that very same ardour [as sports cars] would be show cloak in varied forms of automobiles, we won’t be ready to attain customers”.
• Sato mentioned it changed into once vital to instil this philosophy into unique participants of the Toyota team, and, by making the assertion publicly, the CEO gave the look to be sending this message to the emblem’s right followers as effectively.

Ford provides ‘Gloomy Edition’ to Everest fluctuate

• Following on from the Ranger Gloomy Edition launched closing year, the Everest has gained its hold styling and value-targeted grade, with the indispensable batch of the final 750 objects promised for Australia space to attain in July.
• In response to the mid-spec Pattern 4 wheel force with the dual-turbo four-cylinder engine choice, the Gloomy Edition affords the expected suite of dusky exterior touches, along with 18-creep alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain as an different of dual carriageway terrain rubber.

• Alongside with the same old towing programs, shoppers could additionally additionally decide for the Top charge Seat pack that lifts the normal spec to encompass extra adjustable seating along with heated/ventilated seats for an extra $1200 on top of the depraved $69,000 rate.
• It’s the most modern unique grade to be a half of the Everest lineup following the Wildtrak and Tremor, with the folk on the Blue Oval greater than eager to double down on its most modern gross sales success of the wagon and in sympathy of the manufacturing wind-down of RWD variations.

Nissan Micra no likelihood for Australia

• Nissan Australia has confirmed that the currently unveiled, all-electric Micra hatch will no longer be coming to Australia and could just calm as an different be targeted at Europe.
• Pitched as a reasonably extra premium different to the Renault 5 on which it’s basically based, the Micra can be gunning for just among the most modern gross sales success loved by its French sibling, which has been praised for its affordability, ethical looks and dapper possess.

• The Micra is offered with both a 40kWh and 52kWh battery, offering ranges of 308km and 407km, respectively. A charging charge of 100kW is slack by replace requirements, however the Micra can calm recharge from 15-80 p.c in 30 minutes.
• The Micra has been on hiatus for the closing two years, but Nissan discontinued the hatch within the neighborhood in 2016, because it shifted focal point in opposition to SUVs, utes and sports actions automobiles.

2025 Mini JCW fluctuate reviewed

• Chasing Vehicles contributor Iain Curry executed an total fluctuate evaluation of the freshest JCW (aka John Cooper Works) variations of the recent Mini lineup.
• Riding the Countryman and Aceman SUVs, along with the petrol/electric three-door Hatch and petrol Convertible, Iain praised the depth of abilities all the scheme in which via your total fluctuate.

• The unique all-electric Aceman shone with its eager handling and prankish dynamics, but changed into once held motivate by its fire scramble; while the Countryman changed into once substantial to force, even supposing the added heft turned obvious within the company of the remainder of the Mini JCW household.
• Whereas now no longer obtainable with a handbook transmission, Curry mentioned the three-door petrol Hatch changed into once calm the purest and most luscious JCW experience.

READ: Link to written evaluation

WATCH: Link to YouTube video

The next effect of Vehicle News This day can be published on Friday, twenty third Can even just at 4.30pm Sydney time.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 will purpose keener drivers next year with a recent GR Sport flagship that combines a 227kW glide-in hybrid drivetrain and an upgraded chassis over popular versions of the favored midsized SUV.

Toyota’s next-expertise RAV4 will supply more from the GR Sport badge that to this point bear generally represented sporty styling only.

The RAV4 GR Sport will portion a 227kW glide-in hybrid drivetrain with other all-wheel-drive PHEV variants within the vary, though Toyota engineers bear space out to make it a more dynamic drive.

Suspension changes consist of what Toyota calls a “higher performance damper construct”, a stiffer rear suspension brace, 20mm-wider tracks, and commonplace retuning for enhanced facing over popular RAV4s.

The steering calibration has furthermore been revised, while the GR Sport adopts “lightweight” 20-move alloy wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes Sport performance tyres.

A Y-spoke rim construct is one of diverse abnormal styling parts for the RAV4 flagship. Other determined-in-vary parts consist of front and rear spoilers, a bigger mesh grille in murky, murky surrounds for the aspect vents and DRLs, and an all-murky lower rear bumper.

Official photographs feature the GR Sport in crimson physique coloration with contrasting murky roof.

GR Sport trademarks are utilized front and rear, to boot as internal. The cabin furthermore parts crimson accents, sports seats, suede and synthetic leather upholstering with crimson stitching, console kneepads, and alloy sports pedals.

The RAV4 GR Sport could be powered by one of the best-output glide-in hybrid drivetrain that supplies 227kW when in contrast with 201kW for the more cheap, 2WD RAV4 PHEV devices.

The drivetrain combines a 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery with a 150kW front electric motor and a pair of.5-litre petrol engine. Toyota quotes 5.8 seconds for the 0-100km/h move.

That energy output isn’t a ways off the 235kW of the now-discontinued Volkswagen Tiguan R and better than the 195kW of the Skoda Kodiaq RS.

It furthermore exceeds the 152kW and 172kW of two sporty-spec opponents, the Honda CR-V e-HEV RS and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid N-Line, respectively.

These devices price within the low-$60K-driveaway bracket, though the RAV4 GR Sport could perchance well with out anxiety be priced nearer to $70,000. The most modern RAV4 vary-topper, the Edge, already charges about $63,600 drive-away and pricing for the recent model is anticipated to upward push.

For more necessary parts on the total 2026 Toyota RAV4, read our separate epic.

The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 will debut the imprint’s first poke-in hybrid powertrain in Australia within the first half of of 2026.

Toyota confirmed the PHEV as section of the worldwide unveiling of the most contemporary RAV4, one of the enviornment’s ideal nameplates that has sold better than half of a million items in Australia by myself since 1994.

PHEVs target 100km EV vary

Walk-in variations combine a 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery with a 150kW entrance electric motor and a pair of.5-litre petrol engine.

Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models will most likely be provided, with 201kW mixed vitality for the popular (most more affordable PHEV) and 227kW for the latter that helps give the AWD a quoted 0-100km/h time of 5.8 seconds.

Toyota says it is focusing on a 100km WLTP electric vary for the RAV4 PHEV.

DC hasty-charging will permit for the battery to be topped up from 10 to 80 per cent in half-hour by skill of a 50kW onboard charger, or 11kW AC charging for replenishing the battery in about three hours.

It’s too early for official fuel consumption figures. Mitsubishi’s Outlander PHEV is rated at 1.5 litres per 100km, while but any other pure rival – the BYD Sealion 6 – is lower at 1.1L/100km.

Fashioned hybrid continues – but with less vitality

The most more affordable RAV4s will proceed with current, non-rechargeable petrol-electric drivetrains as historic by the most contemporary model.

They’ll once more be on hand in 2WD and AWD kinds, both with 143kW outputs – which plan less vitality than the most contemporary model that produces 160kW (2WD) and 163kW (AWD).

Toyota says it has improved efficiency for a total lot of indispensable parts of the hybrid machine, at the side of the battery and electric motors.

Improved infotainment

Toyota has apparently aimed to take care of one of the ideal criticisms of the most contemporary RAV4 (and most other Toyotas) with a critical multimedia overhaul.

Backed by a “quicker and further compact” running machine platform called Arene that can be application-updated over the air, the unusual infotainment set-up beneficial properties a elevated-resolution level to, configurable residence internet page, and enhanced allege administration.

Unusual or improved energetic security

The 2026 RAV4 positive aspects entrance sinful-site traffic alert to abet support away from collisions at intersections, and the blind-set video display has been tailored to warn of most likely rear-close impacts from “all without lengthen impending vehicles from within the encourage of”.

Self sustaining lane-altering has been added to the radar cruise and lane-imprint again technology aggregate, the pre-collision machine has been enhanced, and a 3D panoramic leer video display is designed to realize parking less difficult.

GR Sport flagship

Toyota will proceed its roll-out of its GR Sport badge with a weird vary-topping RAV4.

Whereas models such because the now not too long ago launched Corolla Immoral GR Sport are sportier in invent pretty than efficiency, Toyota has made a total lot of changes for the flagship 2026 RAV4.

In contrast with current variations, the RAV4 GR Sport has been given stiffer suspension with elevated-efficiency damping, lightweight 20-bolt alloy wheels, 20mm-wider axle tracks, and retuned guidance for extra dynamic using. There are also entrance and rear spoilers.

GR Sport aesthetics are applied internal and outside, with official photography indicating a distinction shaded roof.

The RAV4 GR Sport will most likely be powered exclusively by the AWD poke-in hybrid drivetrain.

Australian pricing and further indispensable sides on the 2026 Toyota RAV4 vary will most likely be launched nearer to the midsized SUV’s birth.

With pricing ranging from $54,990, the Elroq is the first all-unique model within the Skoda line-up to characteristic the label’s ‘Fresh Stable’ accomplish language, with an aim to seize a extra recent and visually sharp accomplish.

It’s additionally the first model to sport the unique SKODA lettering across the bonnet, replacing the ‘winged arrow’ motif and stepping remote from their older conservative styling.

Invent wise, the ‘Fresh Stable’ accomplish brings a slimmer exterior perceive, such because the ‘moustache’ grille tech-deck, framed by the LED headlights which are a re-interpretation of the four-eyed SUV headlights, and overall it’s giving off a peaceable and recent perceive.

The Elroq will start in two variants, the imperfect 85 Decide from $54,990 list and the stop-spec 130 Years Model, priced from $64,990 sooner than on-roads.

Both match an 82kWh battery, each and each with a rear-axle mounted electrical motor producing 210kW.

Efficiency is mentioned to be 6.6 2d for 0-100km/h, has 529km mixed cycle in a single price, and helps 175kW DC rapid charging.

At 4.49 metres in dimension, the Elroq is one in every of the longer limited SUVs, though Skoda Australia categorises it as ‘medium’. When put next, Elroq is a diminutive longer than Toyota Corolla Horrid (4.46m) along with the likes of Skoda Kamiq (4.38m), Hyundai Kona (4.35m) and Volkswagen T-Roc (4.25m).

Internal, the Elroq doesn’t fall wanting the ‘Simply Radiant’ touches all around this stunning unique Timiano Green gem. From the over provide of cup holders, the additional forty eight litres of storage by the centre console feature, and the parcel shelf within the boot having two stage alternate options to maximise cargo feature.

Security wise, the Elroq line-up fits what Skoda calls its Sprint Suite, which contains adaptive cruise regulate with raze and plod and adaptive lane abet. Varied aspects encompass AEB, turn abet, side abet, rear visitors alert and seven airbags.

Elroq 85 Decide – $54,990 – Key aspects

• 19-poke ‘Regulus’ alloy wheels
• ‘Keyless Superior’ locking and starting up system with SAFELOCK and fear
• 13-poke infotainment cloak
• Wireless App-Join for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Wireless smartphone rapid-charging with packed with life ventilation
• Twin-zone native weather regulate
• Heated front seats
• Heated and leather-primarily based mostly wrapped steerage wheel
• Heated/Energy-folding/auto dimming exterior mirrors
• Mode 3 (Form 2) charging cable
• Door-mounted umbrella

Elroq 130 Model – $64,990 – Key aspects over Decide 85

• 21-poke ‘Supernova’ alloy wheels
• Top rate within finishes
• Head-up demonstrate with augmented actuality
• Energy adjusted front seats (height and lumbar) with memory and therapeutic massage functions
• 360-level encompass-label camera
• Canton 12-speaker top rate audio system
• Energy tailgate
• Radiant Park Encourage
• Rear Sunshades
• Matrix LED headlamps with dynamic headlight vary regulate and cornering lights
• Top rate fascinating LED rear taillamps
• Top rate within finishes

Toyota has released photographs of the new-generation RAV4, with the enviornment premiere of the midsize SUV slated for twenty first of May perchance presumably also goal 2025 at 11pm AEST.

To whet the whistle, four teaser photographs of the brand new 2026 Toyota RAV4 were released. On the muse glance from the stop-down pics, it’s possible you’ll perchance presumably also see Toyota’s retro, boxy blueprint language (which debuted with the Land Cruiser Prado) on the brand new RAV4.

The new Toyota RAV4’s interior gets tech heavy, with a successfully-organized central infotainment show veil and digital heads-up show veil.

These improvements may perchance be obligatory to bring the RAV4 abet to being competitive with the Nissan X-Path, Hyundai Tucson, and more moderen rivals from China such as the Haval H6 hybrid.

A successfully-organized digital instrument show veil fits neatly at the abet of a perforated leather-appointed guidance wheel. The digital show veil looks to be separated into three, customisable columns — including map navigation show veil — with an ‘repeatedly on show veil’ readout of the automobile’s jog.

The pictures show veil the RAV4 will defend physical buttons for current-exhaust driver controls. Equally, the climate alter machine looks to rep physical buttons.

Also new to the RAV4 is a slim force selector which is built-in into the heart console, somewhat devour a Mark 8 VW Golf. A sequence of push-buttons presumably alter force modes, handbrake birth, and presumably a terrain selector.

The recent RAV4 has been on sale in Australia since 2019 with a range of devoted petrol and hybrid drivetrain alternate choices. It’s possible that Toyota’s sixth-generation RAV4, in a the same light to varied recent releases, will handiest be available with hybrid motivation in Australia.

It modified into conception the brand new RAV4 may perchance perchance be fitted with Toyota’s new turbo petrol hybrid powertrains, alternatively with the initiating being pulled forward, this looks less possible.

As a change, we ask the TNGA-Okay platform primarily primarily based RAV4 to utilise the the same 2.5-litre four cylinder hybrid machine and e-CVT transmission as within the hot Camry.

The team at Chasing Automobiles has been following the brand new RAV4 very carefully. Speculative renders of the sixth gen RAV4 show veil Toyota’s new blueprint language, already adopted by the Prius, Camry, bZ4X, C-HR and Japan-handiest Crown Sport.

Theottle’s renders are possible to be shut to the public birth model, being that they are primarily primarily based on leaked photographs of a camouflaged RAV4 being boulevard tested within the US.

Ask pricing to upward push by $2000-5000 as a result of a wealth of safety upgrades, contemporary creature comforts and powertrain improvements. The recent 2WD corrupt GX RAV4 begins at $42,260 before on-boulevard expenses.

We ask an addition of a front-centre airbag and driver attention show screen to defend a five-superstar ANCAP atomize ranking.

READ MORE: All the issues We Know About The Subsequent-Gen 2026 Toyota RAV4

Thanks for joining us this Thursday Could presumably perhaps 08th 2025. Seriously in automobile news on the present time: Mitsubishi and tech extensive Foxtron partnering on fresh EV, Volkswagen’s 221kW Golf GTI Clubsport on playing cards for Australia.

Browse this sing:

• Mitsubishi and iPhone maker Foxtron co-op on fresh EV
• Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport coming Down Below?
• GR Sport model of Toyota Corolla Wicked to debut later this 365 days
• Toyota Tundra fluctuate expanded to 2 variants: pricing published

• Reviewed: 2025 Volkswagen Golf Mk8.5 GTI Aussie first power

Mitsubishi confirms rumours of EV partnership with iPhone manufacturer

• Mitsubishi Motor Corporation has confirmed this can simply also be partnering with Foxtron, the electronics manufacturing company additionally responsible of manufacturing Apple’s iPhone. The partnership specializes in handing over a devoted EV to Australia and Unique Zealand.

• Mitsubishi and Foxtron get finalised a memorandum of working out (MOU), which outlines plans for Foxtron to manufacture and present a devoted battery electrical automobile to Mitsubishi Motors. Mitsubishi claims the auto “signifies (its) ongoing power”.

• Minute print surrounding the resultant electrical automobile get not yet been confirmed, however, Mitsubishi did showcase that the Foxtron automobile will be badged and marketed as Mitsubishi OEM. The automobile has an anticipated start within the 2d half of 2026.

• Mitsubishi’s Taiwanese-sourced EV would be any one of a chain of autos produced by Foxtron. The Model B midsize SUV, Model E flagship sedan, Model D MPV or Model V Ute compare to be the most relevant to ANZ markets.

All fresh Golf GTI could well rapidly sport iconic Clubsport nameplate in Oz

• Volkswagen Australia‘s not too lengthy within the past launched Mk8.5 Golf GTI has already made its debut in more challenging-core Clubsport guise in a foreign country, and Australia looks to be like to be the next recipient in line.

• In in a foreign country markets, the Golf GTI Clubsport facets weird decals, 19-dash ‘Warmenau’ forged wheels, and an additional 26 kilowatts over the bizarre GTI, bringing total output to 221kW/400Nm.

• ‘Clubsport’ is an iconic timeframe within the Volkswagen lexicon. First exhibiting in 2016 on the Golf GTI Mk7.5, the Clubsport nameplate is synonymous with vitality, prestige, and song prowess.

• The Golf GTI Clubsport is built on Volkswagen’s revised Mk8.5 Golf platform. It facets revised running gear, an enhanced infotainment contrivance, and facelifted front and rear bumpers over its Mk8 Golf predecessor.

Toyota finds fresh GR sport variant of Corolla Wicked

• Toyota’s Corolla Wicked will rapidly don the powerful crimson and murky Gazoo Racing (GR) badge three years after its 2022 start. The Corolla Wicked GR Sport is anticipated to be launched within the second half of this 365 days.

• The GR Sport Corolla Wicked will feature the identical 112kW/190kW petrol-electrical hybrid drivetrain as completely different variants. The GR tune will in its build consist of beauty upgrades alongside steering and suspension tweaks.

• Pricing has not yet been published for the Corolla Wicked GR Sport: Toyota says pricing and additional small print will be launched later this 365 days. Pricing for the foul mannequin Corolla Wicked begins at $40,500 power-away.

• The Corolla Wicked becomes the fifth Toyota to give a GR Sport variant, joining the HiLux, LandCruiser 300, and two completely different compact SUVs, the Yaris Wicked and C-HR.

READ: Toyota Corolla Wicked 2025: GR Sport flagship to switch line-up of facelifted small SUV

Toyota Tundra fluctuate expanded with pricing for fresh fluctuate topper

• Toyota Australia has launched pricing for its fresh fluctuate-topping Tundra Platinum. The Platinum has entered Toyota showrooms to be equipped alongside the fresh Runt, which went on sale in November 2024.

• Toyota’s extensive Tundra Platinum ute instructions an equally extensive label of $172,990 (MSRP). It comes at a come $20,000 top payment over the $155,990 Tundra Runt. Each variants get equal mechanical underpinnings, in conjunction with the 326kW/790Nm i-Force Max powertrain.

• The Toyota Tundra Platinum facets a revised luxurious inner with massaging front seats, a top payment-compare exterior with weird front bumper, and proper leather-acccented smooth over the foul mannequin Runt.

• The Toyota Tundra Platinum mainly competitors the $140,945 (list) Ford F150 Lariat LWB, the $130,500 (list) Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ, and $159,950 (list) Dodge Ram Runt.

READ: Toyota Tundra 2024 overview: examined in Australia

2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI reviewed

• Chasing Autos contributor Nathtan Ponchard’s review of the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8.5 Australian first power became published, in conjunction with his thoughts on how the most modern within the enduring 50-365 days-former nameplate compares with its forebears.

• Ponchard praised the fresh GTI’s chassis, with declare mention of the complicated front LSD and the scheme in which it lifts driver engagement. He additionally beloved the key changes to the person interface of the most modern Golf substitute, fixing areas generally criticised in its Mk 8 predecessor.

• Whereas sooner and extra provocative, Ponchard laments that presumably the paddle-rapid vibe of the Mk 8.5 robs the GTI nameplate of just among the measured balance stumbled on in older objects.

• All in all, the verdict is that even die-exhausting GTI traditionalists must aloof fancy this fresh take on the half-decade diagram, even though its label is undoubtedly starting up to come up there.

READ: 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk 8.5 Australian First Force

The next sing of Automobile Files This day will be published on Friday 09th Could presumably perhaps at 4.30pm Sydney time.

The Corolla Injurious diminutive SUV will change into the most modern Toyota to characteristic a Gazoo Racing (GR) Sport variant as its flagship when an up as much as now line-up arrives in the 2nd half of 2025.

Toyota’s celebrated SUV will additionally get revised styling and recent coloration alternate choices as section of its first most foremost update since being released in 2022.

The Corolla Injurious GR Sport will characteristic a sportier steering and suspension tune plus a Sport power mode over fashioned variations, and can maintain to aloof be visually approved in the fluctuate by 19-hump ‘GR Sport’ darkish-alloy wheels and a more aggressive-taking a gaze entrance bumper fabricate with mesh grille.

Inner, the cabin adopts red stitching for more than a few sections, including the seats, and a steering wheel that additionally capabilities a GR Sport label.

There will in every other case be minimal, if any, changes for the Corolla Injurious’s cabin.

Toyota’s ‘GR Sport’ badge continues to describe quite minor mechanical variations, with the Corolla Injurious fluctuate-topper space to use the same 112kW/190kW petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain as assorted variants.

Corolla Injurious is hybrid simplest now, having launched additionally with a petroleum engine more than a few.

The Corolla Injurious GR Sport will be offered with all-wheel power simplest, with GXL and Atmos grades – if names no longer changed – continuing to provide the various of 2WD (entrance-power) or AWD, and the lunge GX restricted to 2WD.

A fluctuate of contemporary colours includes the option of a two-tone exterior essentially based entirely around a shadowy roof – for explicit variants/colours.

The Corolla Injurious becomes the fifth Toyota to provide a GR Sport variant, becoming a member of the HiLux, LandCruiser 300, and two assorted compact SUVs, the Yaris Injurious and C-HR.

Toyota says pricing and extra diminutive print will be released later this year. The Corolla Injurious at inform starts from about $40,500 power-away.

Thanks for joining us this Wednesday, Could maybe 07th 2025. Significantly in automobile knowledge today: Labor would possibly likely maybe likely also toss luxury automobile tax, BYD Sealion 7 extra standard than Tesla in April.

Browse this explain:

• The ALP will more than likely be scrapping the controversial Luxurious Automobile Tax
• BYD Sealion 7 triumphs over Tesla in EV battle of attrition
• Jaecoo J8 impress and specs revealed earlier than June birth
• Mercedes-Benz C350e marks the return of Benz PHEVs

Why the ALP will more than likely be scrapping Luxurious Automobile Tax

• The no longer too long within the past reelected Australian Labor Celebration (ALP) is reportedly pondering scrapping Luxurious Automobile Tax (LCT), per a checklist published by The Australian. The switch helps firm up free trade with Europe within the face of the impact of US trade tariffs imposed on the EU.

• Offered in 2001, the LCT imposes a 33 p.c tax to autos valued above $80,567. In the period in-between, gas atmosphere pleasant autos (these with a claimed gas consumption below 7.0L/100km) possess a better $91,387 threshold.

• An economic domino kill has observedly begun from US tariffs. Australia hopes to expend the abolishment of LCT to assign free trade with Europe and other continents.

• Claims of abolishing LCT observe from requests of the European Union to befriend its increasingly struggling car industry following most contemporary US tariffs as well to gradually rising competition from Chinese carmakers.

READ: Luxurious Automobile Tax on the chopping board as Federal Authorities eyes trade negotiations with Europe

BYD Sealion 7 triumphs over Tesla in EV battle of attrition

• The BYD Sealion 7 has claimed the title of April 2025’s most practical possible-promoting EV, pulling earlier than several EV producers along side reigning Australian EV gross sales champion Tesla.

• BYD’s Sealion 7 midsize electrical SUV shifted 743 autos in April, impressive for its third month on sale. Its closest rival, the Tesla Mannequin Y, offered genuine 280 fashions, with the Mannequin 3 trailing shut within the befriend of at 220 registrations.

• Tesla has knowledgeable Chasing Vehicles that they mediate the Could maybe 2025 gross sales rollout of the all-new 2025 Mannequin Y will stabilise the logo’s uncharacteristically low gross sales figures.

• Several electrical autos outsold both model of Tesla in April, along side the MG4 (363), Kia EV5 (342), Kia EV3 (336), and Geely EX5 (324). The Tesla Mannequin Y remains the most traditional EV in Australia One year to this level, with a filled with 3394 deliveries.

READ: BYD Sealion 7 outsells Mannequin Y to be most traditional electrical automobile in April

Jaecoo J8 impress and specs revealed earlier than June birth

• Luxurious Chery subdivision Jaecoo has announced pricing for its new J8 medium/tidy size SUV earlier than its legitimate June 2025 birth date.

• The Jaecoo J8 will within the foundation be offered in two tremendous ranges, starting at $49,990 pressure-away for the J8 Note entrance-wheel pressure and $54,990 pressure-away for the J8 Ridge all-wheel pressure. Both autos will likely be powered by a 183kW/385Nm two-litre turbocharged four cylinder.

• The Jaecoo J8 opponents an analogous uncommon monocoque softroaders along side the $44,190 (MSRP) Subaru Outback, $50,240 (MSRP) Mazda CX-60 and $Fifty three,000 (MSRP) Hyundai Santa Fe.

• No matter being a key promoting level in foreign markets, the Australian model Jaecoo J8 will no longer be on hand with a six- or seven-seat configuration. A Chery spokesperson divulged to Chasing Vehicles the importer became as soon as “dissatisfied” to omit out.

READ: Jaecoo’s J8 appears to be like to rob on Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-60 with top price fitout and keen impress

Mercedes-Benz C350e marks the return of Benz PHEVs

• Mercedes-Benz Australia has announced it’ll be bringing the brand new C350e plod-in hybrid to Australia – the first time the three-pointed megastar has offered a PHEV for the explanation that discontinuing of the A250e sedan in Could maybe 2022.

• The Mercedes-Benz C350e is on hand to repeat from today, with a starting impress of $98,200 (list). It facets a 25.4kWh battery, two-litre turbocharged four cylinder, and nine-velocity automatic transmission with P2 mounted electrical motor. Combined output is quoted to be 230kW and 550Nm.

• Mercedes-Benz claims the C350e is able to up to 100km (NEDC) electrical-completely driving vary. Same outdated equipped 11kW AC charging accomplishes a pudgy payment in a claimed 2 hours, with $1500 optional rapid DC 55kW charging conducting a 0-80 p.c payment in 20 minutes.

• The C350e opponents an analogous mid-size European govt sedans, essentially the $88,990 (list) Volvo S60 T8 PHEV and upcoming Audi A5 PHEV.

The following explain of Automobile Files At the novel time will likely be published on Thursday 08th Could maybe at 4.30pm Sydney time.

The GWM stand on the 2025 Shanghai motor showcase basically the significant its dangle postcode. For a tag that barely made a dent in Australia a decade ago, it’s surreal to appear the veritable navy of sub-producers and devices GWM produces this day.

Here is the realm’s most bright automobile exhibition, and the size of wares saw it rob over a pleasing chunk of one among the showcase’s wide halls.

Hardcore off-freeway Tanks and Cannon pickups, a immediate of boxy Havals, Ora EVs, luxury Wey folks movers and even a wide motorbike with flat-eight cylinder engine had been part of the line-up.

We can must listen. Final year, GWM grew to change into the tenth simplest-promoting tag in Australia, trumping Subaru and Volkswagen, and nearly dislodging Nissan.

It’s been a meteoric upward thrust, despite many Australians’ misgivings about shopping Chinese language vehicles. In 2018, when it sold the Huge Wall Steed ute and 4 Haval devices, it shifted most bright 1500 devices. In 2024 – now rebadged GWM and promoting Cannon utes, Haval and Tank SUVs, and the Ora EV, it used to be over 40,000.

The Chinese language wide has loftier Australian ambitions, and the vehicles we saw in Shanghai showcase the smorgasbord GWM’s Aussie product planners can choose from.

Disappointingly – and as with closing year’s Beijing auto showcase – there’s worthy talk about of “into account” for our market in save of worthy locked in. Nevertheless once the possibility’s made, they switch mercurial.

Positively for us, this year’s exhibition showcased worthy of what turns Aussies on. Particularly, hardcore 4×4 gear, large SUVs, hybrid energy and – most intriguingly of all – the promise of a 4.0L twin-turbo petrol V8 slither-in hybrid.

We had been in a region to have a look at thru this new engine and the GWM inventory on the showcase, then have annoyingly short take a look at drives in a automobile park on the threshold of city. Listed right here are our highlights.

Navigate the brand new devices right here

• Tank 300 Hooke Path special model
• Tank 300 with KIT-A Valid Equipment
• Haval Raptor
• Haval H7
• Tank 700 PHEV
• Tank 400 Hi4-T
• Wey 07
• Haval H9

Tank 300 Hooke Path special model

The boxy medium SUV has been a winner for GWM, nonetheless you sense the Tank 300 needs extra than staunch basically the most standard arrival of a diesel engine.

How a pair of various model? On provide an explanation for used to be a Hooke Path model, sporting a 260kW/500Nm 3.0L turbo V6 relaxed hybrid, solid axles, sway bar disconnect, rob kit, all-terrains and beadlock rims.

While presenting the automobile, GWM execs previous school it as an instance of where the brand new V8 PHEV powertrain could additionally be utilised, which would get an off-roader within the mildew of the discontinued Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with HEMI V8.

A brand new Tank 300 hero? Even though it by no plot grew to change into a income, such a flagship would end gargantuan issues for tag building and be fully outlandish in market.

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Tank 300 with KIT-A Valid Equipment

On showcase had been GWM’s proper gear coating a line-up of Tanks, Cannons and Havals, nonetheless it worked most efficiently on the boxy 300.

Australian Tank 300 owners are equipped general gear – think nudge bars, roof tray and bike carriers – nonetheless the Chinese language market will get the beefy monty.

Our favourite used to be the KIT-A setup, bringing beadlock wheels, multi-terrain knobbly tyres, K-MAN off-freeway nitrogen shock absorber rob kit, Daka Racing higher adjust fingers, new entrance grille, replacement metal bonnet, entrance bumper with winch, fender flares, side ladder, roof platform, storage bins, side canopy and a passenger flee display hide hide.

Coated in youngster blue it appears to be both hard and gargantuan fun. If GWM equipped these as proper gear it’d end their base line no harm the least bit.

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Haval Raptor

Below consideration for Australia, nonetheless it’s identical sized to the logo’s H6 medium SUV. On the replacement hand, its boxy physique, all-wheel-force, first payment 221mm ground clearance and rear diff lock get it a in actuality various automobile, and a Subaru Forester / Outback replacement with cheap off-freeway clout.

It’s a monocoque SUV in save of ladder physique and there’s no low fluctuate switch case, so it’s no hardcore explorer, nonetheless many customers don’t want such skills.

It’s got solid numbers from its 1.5-litre petrol turbo petrol with slither-in hybrid tech the utilization of twin e-motors. Over 100km electric fluctuate is acknowledged from its 27kWh battery, and solid 0-100km/h performance thanks to the mixed 282kW/750Nm output.

Inside is a 14.6-slither centre display hide hide, 12.3-slither driver provide an explanation for and Level 2 self adequate riding, nonetheless less expensive feeling plastics level to its budget roots. If this PHEV could additionally come in at around $45k, it’d overview reasonably appealing.

It wouldn’t be known as Raptor in Australia (Ford wouldn’t allow it), so would adopt the “H” and a bunch for our market.

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Haval H7

Brilliantly known as “Spacious Dog” in various markets, it’ll adopt the less thrilling H7 name when it arrives in Australia within the third quarter of this year. Yep, right here is a GWM product that’s locked in for our showrooms.

Furthermore a mid-measurement SUV, it’s of identical dimensions to Haval’s H6, H6 GT and Tank 300, so it’ll be a crowded community. Add the above Haval Raptor and it appears to be in actuality busy.

Nevertheless this H7 has a chunkier physique than the H6, roof rails and in-vogue spherical headlights. On the replacement hand, it shares underpinnings with the H6, and arrives as a 2WD 1.5-litre turbo hybrid, so it’s no off-roader. The Raptor or Tank that that it is possible you’ll additionally take into consideration picks would must quilt that.

In China there’s a 2.0-litre turbo all-wheel-force, which can additionally join the Australian model later. For now, it’s about being well-priced and well-geared up, and our brief take a look at force published it’s spritely with 179kW and 530Nm – solid numbers.

The cabin boasted first payment screens, layout and apartment, nonetheless anxious plastics again showed it’s extra budget minded. That acknowledged, if they’re priced all around the low $40k, it’d showcase appealing cost to switch with its chubby lawful appears to be.

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Tank 700 PHEV

The flagship Tank 700 has been mooted for Australia for over a year, nonetheless looks closer than ever.

A facelifted model is forthcoming, and that’s the one Australia would no query rob. The most standard model of this Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series rival has most bright two rows of seats; a third row scuppered by its wide battery from the slither-in hybrid draw below the boot ground.

Whether or no longer this could be addressed to provide seven seats in an updated model remains to be considered, nonetheless no longer providing a third row would hamper Australian high-tail for food. As would a wretched tow rating. We had been instructed the 700 PHEV is rated 3500kg in China, nonetheless that doesn’t basically translate to the same for our extra no longer easy market – harsher native climate and longer warranty as an instance.

These 700 PHEVs are priced at around $100,000 in China, so it’d be a in actuality costly Tank in Australia. Nevertheless performance and gear are mighty: a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 plus electric motor, 9-bustle transmission and 37kWh battery whereas handing over over 380kW and 800Nm, smashing a LandCruiser’s numbers.

It hits 100km/h in around 5 seconds, which feels surreal whilst you learn it weighs over three tonnes. We had a short take a look at force and it displayed in actuality lawful articulation, though its three diff locks had been barely nervous.

You stand up to 255mm ground clearance thanks to air suspension, 20-slither wheels, improbable feeling seats with heating/cooling/massaging and the anticipated wide screens. All electric fluctuate is up to 100km.

An spectacular, rugged, luxury-packed higher large SUV, right here is the flagship Tank needs to in actuality get a designate. And that aforementioned V8 slither-in? Match that – it’d be a probable dwelling for the brand new V8 – and it’d be one hell of a halo off-freeway weapon.

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Tank 400 Hi4-T

Much less likely for Australia than the Tank 700, nonetheless there could additionally be room for this chubby, funky medium/large SUV between the 300 and 500. Our take a look at used to be within the extra city-leaning 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol model (no longer the extra hardcore, higher-geared up PHEV), providing 188kW and 380Nm, even though we weren’t given the possibility to switch extra than 10km/h over a disadvantage.

A ladder-physique 4×4 with 2500kg towing, 800mm wading and 224mm ground clearance. Trace one around $50k and it’d be a solid, military-having a overview family SUV to rival the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Isuzu MU-X.

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Wey 07

Is Australia though-provoking for one other new GWM tag? It and various Chinese language giants have confirmed they aren’t averse to launching all-new marques, and this Wey 07 is awfully bloody dazzling.

It’s a wide wagon/SUV, and our take a look at automobile (where we had been most bright allowed to passenger) used to be a 1.5-litre turbo slither-in hybrid with Level 2 self adequate riding. Our driver gave us an city tour, and the driverless draw — known as NOA — behaved exceptionally for basically the most part. The driver took over the controls at certain aspects, suggesting there’s no longer beefy faith within the tech.

Gorgeous energy offer, wafty silent running and a relaxing develop to all surfaces made this a luxurious MPV to passenger in, nonetheless it rode firmer than a automobile like this could occasionally must. With Australian (ex-Holden) automobile dynamics engineer Rob Trubiani now on the GWM squad, if the Wey came to Australia he’d no query soon clear up that.

The 07’s appeal is helped by a cavernous inner and 3050mm wheelbase. We opted for the 2d row captain’s chairs (it’s a six seater), loved energy, heated, cooled and therapeutic massage seats, and a TV folding down from the ceiling.

The dashboard boasts a pair of infotainment screens stretching to in entrance of the passenger, and our ride used to be of improbable quality, bustle and color. No longer so gargantuan used to be the motive force clearly in a region to explore this be aware if he so wished (he didn’t, in our case).

It uses a wide (for a PHEV) 44.5kWh battery, so a pure EV fluctuate shut to 200km is acknowledged. Subsequent to the extra challengingly styled Wey 80 folks mover (has a entrance grille a Mack truck would be relaxed with), the 07 is an cheap looker too, albeit very generic.

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Haval H9

Australia got the broken-down H9 between 2015 and 2021, nonetheless will it ever rob this 2d-generation seven-seater? It’d be an inviting reduce back-worth replacement to the Toyota Prado. Nevertheless GWM’s obviously hesitant to raise this in as it’d straight bother the community’s Tank 500 four wheel force.

We managed to leap in a single with a new 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine, which would appeal to Aussies, even though it felt reasonably gruff and over-worked making an strive to haul this wide unit.

It’s a seven-seat large SUV with ladder physique, diff locks, 800mm wading and, as it proved on our brief ramp take a look at, first payment suspension shuttle and articulation. Our slalom force route set up it in its worst atmosphere, the tight turns showing it used to be a true wobbler and the balance/traction adjust systems very early to intervene.

The 135kW/480Nm diesel motor already sees carrier within the Cannon Alpha ute, and it’d be a bother to provide it with out a hybrid/slither-in hybrid variant within the face of our increasingly extra strict NVES effectivity requirements.

GWM’s Hey-4 hybrids also in actuality feel worthy extra standard, feisty powertrains, even though whether they’d offer the economy and towing of a diesel is an unknown.

The H9 is wide, has a luxurious inner with the anticipated tech and luxuries; and appears to be the trade too, especially with some of the crucial rugged off-freeway gear confirmed on the Shanghai event. Tumble one in at no longer worthy over $50k and it’d elevate eyebrows.

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The eighth-expertise Lexus ES has been printed with a if fact be told wide shake-as much as the enlarged luxury sedan’s powertrain strategy – with the hot model’s smartly-liked petrol hybrid expertise dwelling to be retained while pure-electric energy will moreover be made on hand at commence in 2026.

While it retains a used sedan boot, aesthetically the original ES apes the appearance of a fastback and if truth be told moves into the dimensional class above, with a 165mm stretch to overall measurement (80mm in the wheelbase) making this 5.14-metre four-door longer than a BMW 5 Series.

An unnamed original maintain language debuts on the original ES, which adopts thin and angular headlights above a front apron inspired by final twelve months’s LF- ZC Belief while a stout-width rear light bar contains ‘LEXUS’ lettering.

A hockey-stick detail embossed in the aspect profile partially distracts the gaze from the dramatic 110mm uplift in top, built into the automobile so as to accommodate the battery (of for the time being undisclosed skill) shared by the fully-electric grades that are yet 5mm taller yet again.

Inner, the organic traces of the outgoing model are substituted for a sq.-edged dashboard shelf motif incorporating a 14.0-experience touchscreen. A cowled digital instrument cluster is retained, as are like a flash shortcut controls temperature and a quantity roller are retained.

The enlarged dimensions accommodate a extra plentiful cabin with choices equivalent to a passenger seat ottoman and an executive rear seat kit with massage. Textured bamboo neat aspects extensively in the doors while interior colors comprise light grey, tan and a light inexperienced.

When the original ES lands domestically subsequent twelve months, Australian traders will be supplied as a minimum one hybrid and one electric powertrain need from the worldwide menu of four engines, with low- and high-energy tunes of every and every vitality form on hand.

The global powertrain slate kicks off with the 2 hybrids. The ES300h uses a brand original-to-ES 2.0-litre petrol-electric four-cylinder unit producing as much as 145kW with front-wheel power. This lower-output hybrid may possibly well be regarded as as to change the now-defunct, petrol-simplest ES250 that most no longer too lengthy ago retailed for $62,140 plus on-avenue prices in 2024.

Subsequent is the ES350h badge, which carries into the original ES an as much as this level model of the hot ES300h’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid now making 182kW (up 22kW). As before, mixed torque isn’t any longer disclosed.

While the ES350h stays front-wheel power as popular, an all-wheel power option is now on the menu – in two energy outputs of 148kW (ES300h AWD) or 182kW (ES350h AWD). ES350h pricing for the time being commences at $65,540 + ORC.

On the pure-electric aspect of the ledger, single- and twin-motor powertrains are on hand. Badged ES350e is a front-wheel power EV model making 165kW of energy, while the all-wheel power ES500e steps as much as 252kW.

Quickest of the dwelling is the ES500e, which claims a 5.9 2nd 0-100km/h time. The jog is otherwise carried out in as lengthy as 9.4 seconds (ES300h FWD), shedding to eight.9 sec (ES350e), 8.5 sec (ES300h AWD), 8.0 sec (ES350h FWD), and 7.8 sec (ES350h AWD) respectively.

Enabling the inclusion of battery-electric powertrains has been carried out by skill of major variations to the TNGA-K platform shared between Toyota and Lexus. The midsize, front-power ‘K’ chassis became as soon as utilised by the outgoing ‘XZ10’ ES which became as soon as variously on hand with hybrid and non-hybrid four-cylinder petrols and a V6 petrol in a foreign country.

While the e-TNGA platform utilised by the Lexus RZ, Toyota BZ4X and Subaru Solterra cousins became as soon as a mechanical branch of TNGA-K, the pure ‘K’ chassis became as soon as to birth with designed to accept simplest miniature to midsize batteries allowing amble-in hybrid drivetrains equivalent to those seen domestically in the Lexus NX and RX PHEV variants.

Changing currents in the automobile industry – growing popularity of fully-electric sedans in China, occurring simultaneously with lumpy quiz for stout EVs in Western markets – is believed to fill convinced Toyota to re-engineer the platform so as to accept worthy higher batteries.

The dimensions of that battery isn’t yet identified then yet again it appears the ES350e and ES500e variants utilise the the same pack. Riding differ is asserted to be 685km and 610km respectively on the optimistic Chinese language CLTC machine – equal to spherical 550km and 490km (WLTP). Top DC charging jog is 150kW during a 30 minute 10-80 p.c charging session.

Meanwhile, the hybrid versions may possibly well lift across a 50-litre gasoline tank.

Gasoline consumption for the incoming ES300h and ES350h has no longer yet been disclosed, then yet again it liable to be equal to the 4.8L/100km snort of the hot automobile – affording a theoretical gasoline differ of 1041km.

Learn our review of the hot Lexus ES300h hybrid.