Future cars

Virtually three years after Tesla ceased accepting Cybertruck deposits in Australia, the US-basically based fully mostly manufacturer is challenge intensive inside of preparations to open the all-electric opt-up within the community, spurred by rising Australian ardour in electrified utes, including the BYD Shark.

Speaking to Chasing Autos, Tesla’s Country Director for Australia and New Zealand, Thom Drew, shared rare insights into the company’s planning for a local Cybertruck open, including key considerations spherical pricing for the Australian market.

“The ideal [product] we’re missing for the time being that we in point of fact desire right here is the Cybertruck, and we are in conversations attempting to manufacture that happen. That’s something we are attempting to persuade,” Drew acknowledged.

“Our management foreign places recognises the significance that utes [have] in our market, and we undoubtedly look the aptitude. That is someplace we are attempting to enjoy some leverage.”

Tesla’s management considers Australia a mid-tier market. Structurally, the country falls inside of Tesla’s Asia-Pacific (APAC) gross sales location and ranks 2nd most effective to China by formula of quantity. Drew properly-known that Australia holds larger affect than many European markets.

The Cybertruck is a widely recognised battery-electric twin-cab clad in unpainted stainless metal panels. About 30cm longer than a Ford Ranger, it supplies three motor configurations within the US market with the flagship Cyberbeast boasting a 2.7-2nd 0–100km/h speed, with out considerations outpacing a Ranger Raptor.

Reasonably about a headline figures are only as sight-catching, including most braked towing and payload claims of 5000kg and 1100kg respectively within the United States market, whereas Tesla plans to permit merchants to risk an additional vary extender battery that consumes a Third of the tray.

The sight-catching electric ute would possibly possibly perchance perchance revitalise Tesla’s lineup in Australia. While the trace is on the cusp of launching an upgraded model of its Model Y mainstay, overall Australian gross sales dropped 17 p.c in 2024 and demand of has flagged extra within the predominant two months of 2025.

Surprising demand of for electrified utes will get Tesla’s attention

Basically the most up-to-date surge in demand of for electrified utes—exemplified by the BYD Shark disappear-in hybrid, which has already surpassed 2000 deliveries—has played a key position in Tesla reconsidering the timing of an Australian Cybertruck open.

While hybrid utes love the BYD Shark – as properly because the upcoming GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV – offer merchants a style of electrification and conveniences love onboard vitality for home equipment, Tesla believes Australians are ready for elephantine electrification.

“There is nothing else love Cybertruck within the market, appears to be like to be apart – it is far not for each person. As far as capacity: sight, PHEVs enjoy some advantages. One thing love the BYD Shark which has a appealing vary extender variety model, with plenty more EV capacity,” Drew acknowledged.

“[But] there’s silent nothing right here that can perchance perchance additionally very properly be a proper workhorse, elephantine EV that has the vary and capacity that Cybertruck does. We deem there’s a proper gap within the market that also needs to be filled and we would possibly possibly perchance perchance perchance admire to be the ones to prevent it first.”

Sturdy demand of for the BYD Shark has caught Tesla’s attention – in particular provided that rivals love the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T remain unavailable in Australia, leaving the market vast launch for the Cybertruck.

“It’s positively untapped doubtless,” Drew confirmed.

Two more Cybertrucks land in Australia for expanded marketing activities

Below Drew’s management, Tesla Australia has launched – and now expanded – a marketing campaign to bring Cybertruck demonstrators Down Below, aiming to rep obvious purchaser feedback and teach to head office that native demand of justifies an Australian open.

Tesla before all the pieces imported one Cybertruck to Australia for a national roadshow, showcasing it in Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth. It became displayed in a combination of Tesla retail outlets and public venues as piece of the feedback tour.

Tesla’s management has taken indicate of the Cybertruck’s native popularity. The obvious feedback became sturdy ample to warrant the advent of two extra demonstrators in Australia in most up-to-date weeks for extra promotional exercise.

“We need it right here. Portion of the tour became to procure new eyes onto it, procure a apt notion of what folks take into fable it and what the aptitude demand of shall be…we enjoy a pair more that enjoy honest arrived. We are in point of fact gunning for feedback, helping us to hopefully bring it to market,” Drew explained.

The first Cybertruck demonstrator became left-hand power, nonetheless Drew confirmed to Chasing Autos that there are not any mechanical boundaries to producing a gleaming-hand-power (RHD) model, because the steer-by-wire draw simplifies RHD conversion and lowers manufacturing costs.

“There are about a other adjustments that want to occur to fulfill native requirements…nonetheless it does not enjoy [an RHD] limitation,” Drew acknowledged, noting that switching from Tesla’s NACS American charging port to an Australian/European CCS2 port became an “accommodation” to be made.

Cybertruck’s likely Australian pricing detailed

Two Cybertruck variants are at indicate available within the US: the twin-motor All-Wheel Pressure and the tri-motor Cyberbeast. Both utilise an 800-volt platform and a 123kWh battery, turning in 550km and 515km of vary, respectively—whereas an non-compulsory vary extender adds one more 220km.

While adaptive air suspension promising 440mm ground clearance is normal, vitality and torque vary between the two with the twin-motor producing 450kW/1000Nm for a 4.1sec 0-100km/h time, whereas the 630kW/1396Nm Cyberbeast cuts the speed by one more 1.4sec.

The Cyberbeast’s US pricing supplies the precise indication of its doubtless value in Australia.

“Realistically…we would possibly possibly perchance perchance perchance elevate contemporary US pricing [with] conversion and tax [added], and that’s where we would possibly possibly perchance perchance perchance likely land,” Mr Drew acknowledged, warning that pricing negotiations are a later stage of planning.

Factoring in forex conversion, plus Australia’s items and companies tax (GST) and sumptuous automobile tax (LCT), Drew’s estimate suggests costs that can perchance perchance shock some merchants: spherical $150,000 for the All-Wheel Pressure and $200,000 for the Cyberbeast.

However there’s gleaming files: a more real looking single-motor Cybertruck Rear Wheel Pressure clear is set to open within the US with what appears to be like to be to be a smaller battery providing 400km vary. Energy is lower (235kW for a 6.5sec 0-100km/h time), nonetheless so is pricing.

With conversions and tax, the Rear Wheel Pressure would possibly possibly perchance perchance sit shut to $100,000 in Australian bucks—providing a sturdy temptation for Tesla to slide the extra mile by, doubtlessly, pricing that clear honest below the LCT threshold.

Even with a doubtless set of $200,000, a Cyberbeast would not be the most costly automobile Tesla has sold in Australia. In 2017, the trace’s then-elephantine size SUV, the Model X, value $261,132 sooner than on-road costs in P100D clear ($325,725 adjusted for inflation).

Australian set points of $100K, $150K and $200K for the three Cybertruck trims (sooner than on-road costs) would imply that the ute became considerably more dear than even the dearest variations of the trace’s Model 3 sedan and Model Y midsize SUV.

For this reason, Drew became cautious relating to the Cybertruck’s overall gross sales quantity, agreeing that “in conserving with where the value level would sit” it woud be gleaming to pronounce that gross sales would be lower than Model 3 (17,094 in 2024) and Model Y (21,253 in 2024).

For comparability, the Australian distributor of the BYD Shark – which costs honest $57,900 sooner than on-road costs – has declared that it expects to promote spherical 10,000 devices of the disappear-in hybrid opt-up in 2025.

Mazda’s well-known automobile, the CX-5 mid-dimension SUV, will salvage all-modern Kodo styling and a hybrid powertrain as a third-generation version seeks to drop Toyota’s RAV4 in 2026.

The modern 2026 CX-5 shall be unveiled in the third quarter of this One year, Mazda South Africa managing director Craig Roberts informed local outlet Moneyweb. It is anticipated to pass on-sale in Australia late 2025, or early 2026.

The modern CX-5 is of well-known importance to Mazda Australia. No topic being launched in Australia in March 2017 – eight years prior to now – the evergreen 2d-generation KF CX-5 remains to be a easiest-seller.

In 2024, Mazda Australia sold 22,835 CX-5s, making it no longer true the #1 selling automobile in its fluctuate, but the eighth easiest-selling automobile in Australia. The CX-5 is additionally Mazda’s easiest-selling automobile globally.

As a brand modern generation 2026 CX-5 takes form, here’s every thing we know thus a long way.

2026 CX-5 to introduce most up-to-date Mazda ‘Kodo’ kind

Camouflaged prototypes are now on the roads in the US as Mazda stunning-tunes the CX-5’s closing calibration.

In these routine computer-generated pictures, Chasing Vehicles pulls the covers off the modern CX-5 which would perhaps debut a new kind for Mazda.

Mazda’s 2024 Arata electric SUV theory previews the subsequent generation of the Eastern label’s Kodo kind language. Arata translates to new, modern or original in Eastern. Question to judge heaps of Arata affect in the modern CX-5.

In our renders, the CX-5 maintains a identical profile to the current model but beneficial properties a brand modern headlight and front grille kind and slim tail-lights, making for more of an evolution from the hot automobile – than anything radical.

The CX-5 would possibly perhaps maybe grow in length by bigger than 100 millimetres making it one in every of the longest autos in the mid-dimension SUV section.

‘In-home developed’ hybrid powertrain confirmed

Mazda has already confirmed the subsequent CX-5 will salvage a hybrid powertrain – developed in-home – which is anticipated to grant more power and better gas efficiency.

That shall be song to the ears of Mazda Australia because it continues to form its local line-up for the implementation of the Australian Authorities’s New Vehicle Effectivity Normal (NVES) from July 1, 2025.

Mazda confirmed the modern CX-5 would be hybrid in its Might perhaps well maybe well additionally just 10, 2024, “Financial Results for March 2024” story which described a “plan to equip [the] next CX-5 with a Mazda-developed hybrid engine”.

The story additionally printed Mazda’s intention to originate a brand modern world battery electric automobile on a dedicated EV platform in 2027.

Mazda and Toyota are partnering on electric automobile building and in the US, the CX-50 crossover, sold alongside the CX-5 SUV, makes employ of the identical 2.5-litre Toyota hybrid powertrain from the RAV4 Hybrid. (Mazda has confirmed to Chasing Vehicles no plan to introduce the CX-50 into Australia.)

Eastern outlet Finest Automobile reported in January that Mazda had patented its have confidence four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.

In Australia, Mazda provides its CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90 SUVs with easy-hybrid powertrains and a few are additionally on hand with the hump-in fluctuate.

The CX-60’s 2.5-litre PHEV powertrain claims as a lot as 76km of EV fluctuate from a 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery and would possibly perhaps maybe aloof also be recharged in 2.5 hours the utilization of a 7.2kWh AC charger. It additionally provides ‘easy hybrid’ versions of its 3.3-litre turbo petrol and turbo diesel inline-six.

The hot CX-5 fluctuate provides three engine selections – a 115kW/200Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder, a 140kW/252Nm 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder, and a turbocharged 170kW/420Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder. All are paired with a six-tempo automatic and near in both front-drive or all-wheel-drive relying on the grade.

Effectivity ranges from between 6.9L/100km (claimed mixed, ADR 81/02) to eight.2L/100km for the turbo fashions – a long way off that of the hot easiest-selling mid-dimension SUV, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

More upmarket interior and better costs?

Whereas no understand photographers have captured pictures of its interior, Chasing Vehicles expects Mazda to push the subsequent CX-5 in direction of prestige territory with a more upmarket interior – justifying better costs.

The extra length would possibly perhaps maybe aloof enlarge occupant inform and boot skill making for a roomier cabin.

Reckoning on the grade, Mazda would possibly perhaps maybe replace the 7-traipse TFT instrument cluster with a fat digital point to. The hot CX-5 makes employ of a immense 10.25-traipse central infotainment hide with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, and the modern CX-5 would possibly perhaps maybe catch Mazda’s bigger 12.3-traipse point to.

In enlighten to salvage a five-neatly-known person ANCAP safety ranking, the modern CX-5 would wish a front centre airbag and completely different safety equipment love driver attention monitoring.

The extra equipment and safety upgrades are anticipated to push up costs. There are for the time being eight variants in the Australian CX-5 fluctuate, from the $36,590 depraved G20 Maxx to the fluctuate-topping $55,000 G35 Akera.

Costs of the BT-50 ute rose from between $550 to $3510 as piece of basically the most up-to-date 2025 mid-lifestyles facelift.
Withhold an understand on Chasing Vehicles as we story modern runt print on the 2026 Mazda CX-5 as they virtually light.

Cupra has launched pricing and open timing for its flagship electric car, the Tavascan, and it’s priced to sell.

The Cupra Tavascan passed over its Q4 2024 target open, but while it will seemingly be a day dull it’s also a greenback rapid — virtually $10,000, in actuality.

Cupra’s sporty Tesla Mannequin Y ($63,400), Kia EV5 ($56,770) and Xpeng G6 ($54,800,all earlier than on-street expenses) rivalling Tavascan has dropped from “under $70,000” to a competitive $60,990, earlier than on-street expenses.

Customer deliveries will begin up in April for the two model range comprising Endurance opener and all-wheel drive VZ flagship ($74,490, earlier than on-street expenses).

Measuring 4644mm lengthy and 1861mm wide the Tavascan is a mid-size SUV fancy the Tesla Mannequin Y yet this 5-seater promises to be a long way more than a dull family hauler.

The Cupra Tavascan shares its VW-Group MEB underpinnings with the Skoda Enyaq and upcoming Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 range.

The Tavascan Endurance’s single motor sends 210kW and 545Nm to the rear axle. All Tavascans use a 77kWh lithium-ion battery and the Endurance has a 534km WLTP-rated riding range.

Fleet-charging from 10-80 per cent must silent clutch under Half-hour on legend of of 135kW DC skill.

The Tavascan Endurance parts the following long-established tools:

• 19-journey ‘Vulcano’ alloy wheels
• LED headlights
• Illuminated badge emblems
• Kick-to-start energy tailgate
• 15.0-journey touchscreen
• Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wi-fi charging pad
• Tri-zone native climate reduction an eye on
• Entrance and rear parking sensors

Those procuring for a shrimp bit more luxury can opt for the $4500 Interior Kit, which provides:

• 20-journey ‘Heckla’ alloy wheels
• 360-diploma camera
• ‘Shadowy Evening’ microfibre upholstery
• Heated, energy-adjust front seats
• Ambient lights
• 12-speaker Sennheiser sound map

Including a front electric motor boosts the Tavascan VZ’s energy output to 250kW, with torque unchanged from the rear-biased AWD map. The claimed 0-100km/h coast from 6.8 to 5.5 seconds in the VZ, and range correspondingly falls to 499km (WLTP).

You furthermore mght accept a shrimp bit more to you money in the VZ, alongside side increased copper-accented 21-journey ‘Katla’ alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, glass roof with a sunblind. The VZ will seemingly be accessible with an Wrong bundle for $8000 which brings:

• Grey 21-journey ‘Etna’ alloy wheels
• ‘Enceladus Grey’ Nappa leather-primarily primarily based upholstery
• Heated and ventilated Cupra ‘Cup Racing’ bucket seats
• Efficiency tyres
• 463km WLTP range

Four paint colours come in; White Silver and Atacama Desolate tract are integrated in the pricetag while Tavascan Blue and Basalt Grey appeal to an $800 upcharge.

Cupra gives a 3-twelve months pre-paid service thought for $990. Guarantee is 5 years and limitless kilometres on the auto, with battery guarantee extending to eight years or 160,000km.

With a sharper fee than anticipated on legend of of tariff-free imports from China, the Tavascan’s April arrival can’t near soon sufficient. The fresh electric car will drive Cupra gross sales thru 2025 alongside with the Terramar SUV, plus the updated Leon and Formentor.

2025 Cupra Tavascan pricing

Costs listed are earlier than on-street expenses

Toyota’s 2026 RAV4 will debut new ‘hammerhead’ styling, a new interior and even greater hybrid effectivity when the uncover books open in Australia sooner than first deliveries in 2026.

With its new styling soundless top secret, camouflaged prototypes have hit public roads in Europe and the USA as Toyota tests the sixth generation of its wreck-hit hybrid SUV – Australia’s top-selling SUV in 2024.

In line with the an identical TNGA-Okay platform as the Camry, the new hybrid-simplest RAV4 is anticipated to develop in measurement as share of what’s going to be a heavy update, slightly than a ground-up redesign. Right here’s all the issues Chasing Vehicles predicts for the 2026 Toyota RAV4.

RAV4 to catch most modern ‘hammerhead’ compose

The new generation RAV4 will undertake the an identical sharply styled compose language as the new-generation Prius, new Camry, bZ4X, C-HR and Japan-simplest Crown Sport.

Sooner than a doable unveiling within the major half of this year, Chasing Vehicles’ unfamiliar renders by artist Theottle preview how the 2026 RAV4 would perhaps perhaps well appear, based fully on a detailed overview of high-resolution survey photos and other intel.

In the new RAV4’s case, deem C-shaped ‘hammerhead’ headlights, potentially a diamond grille whereas at the rear, new slim, wrap-around tail-lights. For the side profile, survey pictures establish the RAV4 will preserve its most modern ‘boxiness’ within the compose of aggressive body creases and rugged, squared-off wheel arches.

All-new turbo 1.5-litre engine, or upgraded 2.5?

No indispensable aspects on the next RAV4’s powertrain have yet been released, nonetheless it would perhaps perhaps well come with an uprated model of the most modern 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, paired to Toyota’s ‘fifth generation’ hybrid machine and CVT computerized transmission.

That would perhaps perhaps well scrutinize energy lengthen from the most modern AWD automobile’s 163kW to roughly 170kW blended, the exhaust of the an identical triple electric motor build-up. Toyota is anticipated to continue offering 2WD and 4wd variants.

Gas effectivity will toughen on the most modern RAV4’s already broad-low 4.7L/100km (claimed blended, for the 2WD), edging in direction of the new Camry’s spectacular 4.0L/100km claimed blended decide.

The most modern RAV4’s 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain will at final get replaced by a brand new generation of hybrid-ready turbocharged 1.5- and a few.0-litre four-cylinder engines, as announced in June 2024. Japanese magazine Supreme Vehicle reported a battery electric RAV4 would perhaps be in sort.

Scurry-in hybrid RAV4s will be equipped foreign, and Supreme Vehicle reported a unfold of as a lot as 120km will be doable. Toyota Australia has stated PHEVs are ‘on its agenda’ and would perhaps perhaps well play a ‘grand role’ within the tag’s native line-up from 2026.

Overhauled interior, higher monitors

While no survey photographers have captured the within, quiz greater central infotainment monitors, up from the most modern 8-proceed present within the GX and GXL and 10.5-proceed of the XSE, Cruiser and Edge. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wi-fi phone charging, explain on the most modern model, are practically a given.

For heating and cooling, the new RAV4 would perhaps perhaps well attain away with the present, plump rotary temperature knobs for a row of easy switches esteem that of the new Prado. This could imply conserving onerous buttons and dials slightly than shifting the heating-cooling controls into the central infotainment show camouflage camouflage, as has turned into standard.

Expected greater exterior dimensions would perhaps perhaps well lengthen cabin situation, and survey photos ticket at a doable lengthen in rear baggage situation. It’s no longer particular if the 2026 RAV4 will come with a sliding second row, matching mid-measurement SUV competitors corresponding to the Nissan X-Wander and Honda CR-V.

Improved security, nonetheless for a tag?

The RAV4’s security suite will toughen, likely alongside with the addition of a entrance-centre airbag and driver consideration video show in uncover to win a five-superstar ANCAP rupture ranking.

Pricing will be published closer to the RAV4’s Australian initiate nonetheless given increases to new fashions corresponding to the Prado and Camry, quiz to scrutinize a soar in comparison with the most modern model.

The present RAV4’s nine-variant fluctuate starts at $42,260 for the 2WD wrong GX and tops out at $58,360 for the all-wheel-force Edge (before on-avenue funds). Chasing Vehicles estimates pricing will lengthen at some stage within the RAV4 fluctuate by roughly $2000-$2500, potentially as a lot as $5000 reckoning on the variant and powertrain.

Launched in Australia in 2019, Toyota sold 58,718 RAV4s in Australia final year, just 3875 objects speedy of the tip-selling Ford Ranger. Despite being five years into its model lifecycle, 2024 became once the RAV4’s absolute top-selling year locally, eclipsing even the HiLux.

Isuzu has stopped in need of locking in a hardcore Blade version of its facelifted MY25 MU-X trim SUV, but confirmed: “We are planning one thing.”

An MU-X Blade would rival the Ford Everest Tremor as a extra off-street specified and focussed trim 4×4, in conserving with Isuzu’s purposeful D-Max Blade which launched slack in 2024.

The D-Max and MU-X share underpinnings and powertrains, so a Walkinshaw Automobile-fettled MU-X Blade looks an glaring next step.

If an MU-X Blade arrived, it will perhaps perhaps seemingly feature an analogous equipment to the D-Max variant, including lifted suspension, bespoke Monroe damping, improved underbody safety, twin 8000kg recovery aspects, all-terrain tyres, improved ground clearance and an impressive broader observe.

Isuzu Ute Australia’s deputy total manager, Sadanori Sugita, said: “We’re rigorously monitoring the market wretchedness and customer requirement at this deadline,” earlier than hinting the emblem had one thing unconfirmed in its plans.

Constructing direction of for the D-Max Blade took three years, so changing the correct-launched facelifted MU-X to Blade natty would possibly maybe perhaps be no short direction of. But it will perhaps perhaps also successfully had been within the works alongside its ute cousin.

The D-Max Blade costs $76,990 power-away, so an MU-X Blade version would seemingly arrive all around the $80k power-away mark, making it the priciest Isuzu offered in this nation, and advance lineball with the Ford Everest Tremor rival ($76,590 plus on-roads).

In 2024, Isuzu’s MU-X used to be second finest to the Ford Everest within the crowded trim SUV (beneath $80,000) segment, sooner than the Subaru Outback, Toyota Kluger and Toyota Prado.

Cleaner engines to fulfill emissions requirements

Isuzu is a gross sales success story in Australia, no matter offering finest two devices: the D-Max ute and MU-X trim SUV.

These play in our top-selling segments – SUVs and industrial automobiles – but as a sign, Isuzu is beneath shameful stress because of Australia’s Recent Automobile Efficiency Licensed (NVES), geared toward lowering CO2.

For manufacturers not assembly targets introduced this yr, harsh fines can be levied.

Isuzu’s two devices completely use diesel engines, and on the moment lack powertrains resembling hybrids, trudge-in hybrids and battery electric automobiles which would possibly maybe aid the emblem meet efficiency compliance targets.

In March closing yr Isuzu confirmed an electric D-Max BEV ute used to be coming for real-hand power markets, including Australia, and will sail on sale as early as later this yr.

Its twin electric motors construct 130kW/325Nm, and Isuzu assured it will perhaps perhaps preserve its utility with a 3500kg tow rating and payload up to 1000kg, though no electric vary or potential sign were quoted.

Isuzu’s executive total manager of gross sales, Ben Jaeger, said the emblem used to be “dedicated to providing alternative powertrains; to present a vehicle that would possibly maybe meet these very strict (emissions) targets.”

“Whereas we’re working on choices, it’s necessary for us to make certain these choices are fit for device and meet exactly what our customers need. You don’t would favor to direct one thing to market that isn’t going to sell; that correct ticks the box.”

Indeed. But financial penalties for failing to fulfill NVES targets would possibly maybe power Isuzu’s hand, specifically to support far from such extra costs being handed on to Australian customers.

So what are the decisions? Isuzu Australia’s team used to be asked relating to the D-Max EV and, from Isuzu’s world devices, its 2.2L turbo-diesel and a 1.9L light hybrid offered in Thailand.

Nothing can be confirmed, but there used to be acknowledgement that electrification used to be one thing the emblem would need going ahead.

“NVES is de facto very consuming for us, but we exclaim relating to the governmentdirection is the actual direction to sail, thinking relating to the environment,” said Sadanori Sugita.

“It’s a extremely advanced, consuming goal for us. We’re trying our finest to take a look on the regulation to fulfill the goal as powerful as probably.”

The launch of the BYD Shark 6 PHEV, GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid and rapidly-arriving Ford Ranger PHEV highlight the immediate transfer to electrified utes to fight NVES regulations.

Ute-primarily primarily based SUVs, such because the MU-X, following suit looks a pure development.

Without reference to the NVES challenges, Isuzu confirmed its commitment to selling automobiles in Australia.

Thanks for joining us this Wednesday, February Nineteenth 2025. Particularly in automobile news nowadays: 2005 MG ZST now Australia’s most cost-effective SUV, Chery hits milestone of selling 20,000 vehicles in Australia.

Browse this bother:

• 2005 MG ZST now Australia’s most cost-effective SUV
• Chery hits milestone of selling 20,000 vehicles in Australia
• Hyundai IoniQ 5 sets quickest EV lap time at Assault Tsukuba motorsport match
• LDV Mifa of us mover beneficial properties eight-seat possibility

2005 MG ZST now Australia’s most cost-effective SUV

• Due to a recent runout ticket reduction, the 2025 MG ZST is now the lowest priced SUV on sale in Australia.

• With power-away pricing of $22,888, the MG ZST is now $1000 more cost effective than the previously most cost-effective SUV in Australia, the Chery Tiggo 4 Skilled.

• Fashioned functions for the MG ZST contain Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 360-degree camera, 17-drag wheels and a 10-year/250,000km guarantee.

• Specs colorful, the MG ZST functions a 1.3L turbocharged petrol engine, mated to a CVT automatic transmission.

Chery hits milestone of selling 20,000 vehicles in Australia

• Chery Australia has correct kind hit a milestone of selling 20,000 vehicles in Australia.

• Final year, in 2024, Chery had solda total of correct kind 10,000 vehicles here. Meaning they contain doubled their buyer scandalous in a single year, absorbing 10,000 objects on this period.

• The final commence from Chery, the Tiggo 4, has proven to power this increase – being the most practical selling automobile in the Chery unswerving so a long way.

• Chery management says they contain no plans to gradual down, with a relentless enlargement approach in location to introduce new models, broaden EV manufacturing and broaden the quantity of dealerships.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 sets quickest EV lap time at Assault Tsukuba motorsport match

• Hyundai has correct kind space the lap describe on the 2025 Assault Tsukuba motorsport match, for an electrical automobile, in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

• A lap time of 57.446 seconds used to be recorded, with highly revered professional driver, Nobuteru Taniguchi on the support of the wheel to space this describe.

• The Ioniq 5 N TA spec retains popular electrics, nonetheless with tool tuning, engineers had been in a space to extract a important quantity of extra energy, ensuing in a lap time two-seconds sooner than the previously space simplest time.

• “The Ioniq 5 N TA Spec stops properly and handles excellently. In spite of the energy, the control is outstanding, with astronomical cornering and peaceable, unswerving corner-exit. I can also push the auto to the restrict with valid self assurance,” mentioned Nobuteru Taniguchi.

LDV Mifa of us mover beneficial properties eight-seat possibility

• The LDV Mifa, the most cost-effective of us mover on sale currently in Australia, can now be purchased as a seven seater or with seating for eight occupants.

• Due in showrooms this month, there are four models of the LDV Mifa now ready to roll out.

• All LDV Mifa of us movers are powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder petrol engine, that produces a claimed 160kW and 360Nm, which is mated to an 8-velocity automatic transmission.

• Pricing starts at $46,971 power-away for the Mifa Mode 7 Seater, and tops out at $63, 501 power-away for the Mifa Luxe 7 Seater. The 8 Seater comes in at $47,990 power-away, so correct kind over $1000 extra for an extra seat.

The subsequent bother of Automobile News Nowadays will seemingly be published on Thursday 20th February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Thanks for becoming a member of us this Wednesday, February nineteenth 2025. Critically in car knowledge as we teach: 2005 MG ZST now Australia’s most charge-efficient SUV, Chery hits milestone of marketing 20,000 vehicles in Australia.

Browse this negate:

• 2025 MG ZST now Australia’s most charge-efficient SUV
• Chery hits milestone of marketing 20,000 vehicles in Australia
• Hyundai IoniQ 5 sets quickest EV lap time at Assault Tsukuba motorsport match
• LDV Mifa of us mover positive components eight-seat chance

2025 MG ZST now Australia’s most charge-efficient SUV

• Attributable to a most favorite runout tag discount, the 2025 MG ZST is now the lowest priced SUV on sale in Australia.

• With pressure-away pricing of $22,888, the MG ZST is now $1000 more inexpensive than the beforehand most charge-efficient SUV in Australia, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro.

• Typical aspects for the MG ZST embrace Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 360-level digital camera, 17-breeze wheels and a 10-three hundred and sixty five days/250,000km warranty.

• Specs clever, the MG ZST aspects a 1.3L turbocharged petrol engine, mated to a CVT computerized transmission.

Chery hits milestone of marketing 20,000 vehicles in Australia

• Chery Australia has merely hit a milestone of marketing 20,000 vehicles in Australia.

• Last three hundred and sixty five days, in 2024, Chery had solda total of merely 10,000 vehicles right here. That manner they’ve doubled their buyer sinister in one three hundred and sixty five days, transferring 10,000 models in this era.

• The final open from Chery, the Tiggo 4, has confirmed to pressure this verbalize – being the highest promoting car in the Chery secure to this level.

• Chery administration says they’ve no plans to decelerate, with a relentless growth strategy in build to introduce unique models, amplify EV manufacturing and amplify the quantity of dealerships.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 sets quickest EV lap time at Assault Tsukuba motorsport match

• Hyundai has merely location the lap account on the 2025 Assault Tsukuba motorsport match, for an electrical car, in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

• A lap time of 57.446 seconds become as soon as recorded, with highly respected skilled driver, Nobuteru Taniguchi in the wait on of the wheel to location this account.

• The Ioniq 5 N TA spec retains routine electrics, nonetheless with instrument tuning, engineers had been in a position to extract a famous quantity of extra power, leading to a lap time two-seconds sooner than the beforehand location most efficient time.

• “The Ioniq 5 N TA Spec stops smartly and handles excellently. Without reference to the power, the control is distinctive, with astronomical cornering and quiet, secure nook-exit. I could maybe maybe maybe push the automobile to the restrict with staunch confidence,” acknowledged Nobuteru Taniguchi.

LDV Mifa of us mover positive components eight-seat chance

• The LDV Mifa, the most charge-efficient of us mover on sale for the time being in Australia, can now be purchased as a seven seater or with seating for eight occupants.

• Due in showrooms this month, there are four models of the LDV Mifa now ready to roll out.

• All LDV Mifa of us movers are powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder petrol engine, that produces a claimed 160kW and 360Nm, which is mated to an 8-dash computerized transmission.

• Pricing starts at $46,971 pressure-away for the Mifa Mode 7 Seater, and tops out at $63, 501 pressure-away for the Mifa Luxe 7 Seater. The 8 Seater is accessible in at $47,990 pressure-away, so merely over $1000 extra for an extra seat.

The subsequent negate of Automobile News This day will be printed on Thursday twentieth February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

The Dacia Duster value range compact SUV has sooner or later been confirmed for Australia, despite the indisputable truth that as also anticipated this can wear the badge of parent company Renault.

The third-generation Renault Duster launched last one year in Europe will arrive within the neighborhood within the 2d half of 2025, equipped in 4×2 and 4×4 codecs.

Duster will enter a section alongside with keenly priced Chinese objects such because the GWM Haval Jolion and MG ZS, besides to effectively-recognized nameplates alongside with the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Corolla Tainted, and Volkswagen T-Roc.

A front-power Duster 4×2 will be powered by a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine tied to an computerized transmission, whereas the all-wheel-power 4×4 parts a 1.2-litre ‘soft hybrid’ turbo petrol with a 48V battery and a handbook gearbox.

Renault claims the 4.3-metre-long Duster gives exact off-facet highway skill, per its draw perspective of greater than 30 levels, as a lot as 212mm floor clearance, scratch-resistant physique security, and an Off-facet highway mode handing over permanent four-wheel power.

Renault Australia will be hoping the Duster can inspire improved gross sales of the imprint’s SUVs in Australia, with the Clio-based mostly entirely Captur and midsized Koleos slack sellers in 2024. Renault’s native gross sales are mainly driven by its Master and Trafic industrial vans, despite the indisputable truth that total gross sales own been down greater than 30 per cent last one year.

The Renault-owned Romanian imprint Dacia has been a extensive success chronicle within the UK and Europe, and its Sandero metropolis automobile changed into the most life like most likely-selling automobile in Europe in 2024.

Dacia’s success has been based mostly on a recognition for vehicles offering critical rate, and this can even additionally be gripping to see how the Renault Duster is priced in Australia.

Pricing for the 4×2 turbo petrol within the UK equates to about $42,000, pointing to a doable sub-$40,000 beginning point.

Local Renault distributor Ateco is recognized to own been studying industrial situations for a lot of Dacia objects, with the upper Bigster SUV a conceivable candidate if the company views it as a stronger competitor for the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 than the struggling Koleos.

Australia isn’t the first country to observe the Renault badge to the Duster, following a pair of world markets that consist of India, South The United States, and South Africa.

Thanks for joining us this Wednesday, February 12th 2025. Particularly in car info nowadays: GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV confirmed with pricing, BYD Sealion 7 pricing announced for 2025, and extra.

Browse this explain:

• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV confirmed with pricing
• BYD Sealion 7 pricing announced for 2025
• Volvo EX30 Sinful Country unveiled
• MG ZS Excite lands in Australian dealerships
• Reviewed: 2025 Mazda BT-50

GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV confirmed with pricing

• GWM nowadays published particulars and pricing for the 2d PHEV 4×4 ute to be equipped in Australia, after the BYD Shark, with the announcement of the Cannon Alpha PHEV local free up.

• Pricing starts from $63,990 for the scandalous-spec Lux, with a elevated-grade Extremely additionally on-sale, priced from $68,990. These are driveaway prices.

• The mosey-in Cannon Alpha offers 300kW and 750Nm combined with a claimed electric-handiest differ of 110km, in both on-aspect freeway or off-aspect freeway settings. A claimed combined differ of 880km has additionally been listed.

• Towing capacity is rated at 3500kg, which is additionally class leading for a PHEV ute. Curiously, GWM has additionally decided to encompass entrance, rear and centre locking differentials, and an 800mm wading depth. That is indubitably sure info for off-aspect freeway fans.

BYD Sealion 7 pricing announced for 2025

• Picture books gain officially opened for BYD’s Tesla Mannequin Y rival in the 2025 Sealion 7 electric SUV, as of nowadays.

• Pricing for two Sealion 7 variants has additionally correct been announced at the loyal Australian media open. Chasing Autos contributor Nathan Ponchard is in attendance, and feeding recordsdata again incessantly in step with embargos.

• For these in the market, pricing starts from $54,990 before on-aspect freeway fee for the single-motor Sealion 7 Top class. The dual-motor Efficiency is priced from $63,990 before on-aspect freeway prices.

• This inspiring pricing is neatly beneath the Sealion 7’s natural competitor, the Tesla Mannequin Y. At the time of e-newsletter, Tesla is charging $63,400 for his or her RWD model Y and $73,400 for the AWD Lengthy Differ.

Volvo EX30 Sinful Country unveiled

• Volvo has correct launched photos and particulars of its smallest current SUV, which has got an off-aspect freeway uplift thanks to a raft of path ready candies.

• The EX30 is decided to rating a Sinful Country kit, resulting in a car that arrives on lifted suspension and fitted with higher tyres, to produce extra skill in disturbing  stipulations.

• Recalibration of the contemporary steering, coil springs and shock absorbers used to be required to produce a extra compliant proceed. Volvo engineers additionally raised the inventory proceed peak by correct beneath 20mm, included bash plates, and all-terrain tyres on this elective Sinful Country kit.

• Anticipated on sale in Australia in direction of the pause of 2025, with Volvo hinting at a third-quarter arrival. Pricing and right specifications are but to be published, however the teaser photos look promising.

MG ZS Excite lands in Australian dealerships

• MG Motor Australia announced nowadays that their most in vogue car, the petrol ZS, will likely be rolling out by map of Australian dealerships this week.

• This current petrol ZS compact SUV differ joins the already launched MG ZS Hybrid+ model.

• Pricing starts from $26,990 for the Excite and $29,990 for the Essence, both becoming 81kW/140Nm 1.5L engines. At $31,990, the head-spec Turbo Essence suits a 125kW/275 force-triggered 1.5L petrol.

• The full ZS differ comes with a 10-one year guarantee, or 250,000km, whichever comes first.

Reviewed: 2025 Mazda BT-50

• Chasing Autos contributor Daniel Gardner went bush currently with the target of attempting out the up prior to now 2025 Mazda BT-50 in its natural atmosphere.

• This 2025 model has seen updates to the inside of, with a higher touch cowl, as neatly as increases to safety technology and an exterior redesign.

• Daniel commented that he most authentic the scale of the 2025 BT-50, as neatly because the redesign making the Mazda ute look cherish it will unexcited. He additionally praised Mazda for offering over 100 tools for the 2025 model.

• He may perchance perchance even look room for enchancment by map of the choppy proceed quality, dated digital screens despite being up prior to now, and he didn’t be pleased the (up to) $3500 price lift both.

READ: Hyperlink to article

The next explain of Vehicle News At the present time will likely be published on Thursday Thirteenth of February at 4.30pm Sydney time.

The hybrid version of the 2025 Subaru Forester that borrows expertise from Toyota has been unveiled in the US and is confirmed to be phase of the local line-up launching mid 365 days.

The ‘Stable Hybrid’ powertrain will be offered alongside typical petrol power for the sixth-expertise version of Subaru’s highly current midsized SUV.

Subaru says an electrical motor generator and electric traction motor – core components borrowed from Toyota’s properly established hybrid techniques – are tied in with a newly developed 2.5-litre ‘boxer’ four-cylinder petrol engine running on the extra gas efficient Atkinson Cycle.

The present Forester Hybrid aspects a 110kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder with electric motor combination, though Subaru’s petrol-electric powertrain has been widely criticised for higher gas consumption than expected.

Subaru The United States quotes 145kW for the US-spec Forester Hybrid and claims it improves “blended city and freeway cruising” gas economic system by 25 per cent compared with the non-hybrid Forester 2.5L.

Celebrated aspects for the contemporary-expertise Subaru Forester are region to encompass safety expertise equivalent to Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Reduction, 12.3-hurry digital gauge cluster, and an 11.6-hurry multimedia machine that is naturally both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto fancy minded.

When it comes to off-side road credentials, the 2025 Subaru Forester continues with 220mm of ground clearance at kerb weight, which is correct 10mm decrease than the BYD Shark 6 for reference. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is naturally retained for 2025, as is their X-Mode off-side road machine which uses 5 diversified sorts of retain a watch on to decrease spinning tyres while sending drive to the wheels with traction.

X-Mode also contains candies equivalent to Hill Descent Control, Intriguing Torque Vectoring and Vehicle Dynamics Control which acts as a brake-lock restricted scuttle differential.

Subaru Australia says extra 2025 Forester minute print will be released nearer to its mid-365 days start.