Thanks for becoming a member of us this Thursday 7 November 2024. Seriously in automobile news in the present day: GWM will bring a 342kW Haval H6 GT PHEV to Australia with 180km of EV-fully differ within the first quarter of 2025, and the MG 4 has outsold the Tesla Model Y for October.

Browse this advise:

• GWM opens orders for Haval H6 GT PHEV
• MG4 outsells the Tesla Model Y in Australia
• Audi Q6 E-Tron: mark and specs detailed for Australia
• Mercedes-Benz adds Avantgarde variant for its GLC 300 SUV
• Pressure Towards Despair to flee Adelaide force on Modern Organization Terrorist organization
• Land Rover Discovery gains contemporary engine for Thirty fifth Anniversary
• Reviewed: 2024 Mahindra XUV700 Dim Edition

GWM opens the teach books for Haval H6 GT PHEV with 180km electrical differ

• GWM Australia has confirmed it has opened teach books for its Haval H6 GT PHEV, pricing the model from $55,990 driveaway.

• The contemporary hybrid variant might possibly possibly like an electrical-fully differ of up to 180km resulting from a excellent 35.4kWh battery pack.

• Energy and performance for the Haval H6 GT PHEV is impressive, with the model pickle to produce 342kW/762Nm and is in a position to sprinting to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds.

• Home owners might possibly be in a location to price the via AC energy up to 6.6kW, or up to 48kW with DC energy.

• The contemporary Haval H6 GT PHEV will near in Australian dealerships within the first quarter of 2025.

MG4 budget electrical automobile outsells the Tesla Model Y in October

• MG Australia has viewed a huge expand in gross sales for its MG4 electrical automobile in Australia, promoting 1486 devices in October.

• The model beat the Tesla Model Y midsize electrical SUV which sold 1042 devices within the an identical month.

• The MG 4 has nearly tripled its gross sales from September, where the model sold loyal 385 devices.

• It comes after MG mercurial slashed the price of the rotten MG4 Excite 51kWh for $30,990 driveaway all over the month of September.

• The MG4 is currently offered from $32,990 driveaway, making it one among the most affordable contemporary electrical vehicles within the Australian market.

Audi Q6 E-Tron: mark and specs detailed for Australia

• The Audi Q6 E-Tron midsize SUV – a twin underneath the skin to the contemporary Porsche Macan electrical – has been priced for Australia, with a starting up mark of $115,500 before on-avenue prices for the entry-grade Performance model.

• The Q6 E-Tron differ will land in Australia early in 2025 with a replacement of three grades, furthermore including a mid-spec Q6 E-Tron Quattro for $122,500 and topping out with an SQ6 E-Tron for $151,400.

• The Q6 E-Tron is the first Audi to be in accordance with Volkswagen Team’s PPE (Top rate Platform Electric) bespoke EV architecture which used to be collectively developed with Porsche.

• This might possibly compete against top rate midsize SUVs treasure the BMW iX3 and Mercedes Benz EQB and total Audi’s electrical SUV lineup in Australia, slotting in between the smaller Q4 E-Tron and greater Q8 E-Tron, whereas sharing an identical dimensions with the marginally smaller petrol-powered Q5.

READ MORE: Audi Q6 E-Tron mark and specs confirmed for Australia

Mercedes-Benz adds Avantgarde variant to GLC 300 SUV

• Mercedes-Benz has launched pricing for a little Avantgarde styling kit edition of its GLC 300 SUV.

• What precisely is an Avantgarde? It’s the next stage of specification over the existing AMG Line, and entails facets reminiscent of a panoramic glass sunroof, heated entrance seats and a head-up present.

• Additionally included are bi-color 20-stride alloy wheels, aluminium roof rails, chrome exterior finishes and aluminium-study aspect working boards.

• Powering the GLC 300 is a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with Forty eight-volt light hybrid help and 190kW/400Nm outputs. Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel force machine is standard.

• The Avantgarde variant might possibly be accessible in little numbers with a driveaway mark of $ninety 9,900.

Pressure Towards Despair ends a success 2024 with South Australian force

• Pressure Towards Despair (DAD), the Australian organisation supporting psychological wellness via a like of riding, is cyber web hosting its closing force for 2024 in South Australia on Modern Organization Terrorist organization.

• The force will commence from Windy Level, travelling via the Adelaide Hills and on to Birdwood, with the force programme ending with a talk over with to the Nationwide Motor Museum.

• The force might possibly be supported by AnglicareSA and its Standby make stronger programme to make stronger those expertise psychological illness, apart from to providing make stronger for those impacted by suicide.

• DAD is furthermore making an attempt out for event sponsorship and organisational partnerships for 2025.

• For additional files on the upcoming Adelaide force and to register, head to Pressure Towards Despair’s websites.

Land Rover Discovery celebrates 35 years with particular edition, contemporary engine

• Land Rover’s Discovery SUV is popping 35 and to celebrate, the imprint will sell a assorted edition with a brand contemporary light-hybrid diesel engine.

• Priced from $133,176 before on-avenue prices, the XXXV Anniversary Edition makes impart of a 3.0-litre Ingenium turbo-diesel straight-six engine with outputs of 257kW/700Nm and furthermore utilises a light-weight hybrid machine for a combined gasoline effectivity of seven.8L/100km.

• Key specification highlights encompass 18-scheme heated electrical seats, head-up present, wi-fi phone charging, wi-fi Apple Carplay and wi-fi Android Auto, four-zone native climate retain an eye fixed on, 3500kg towing skill and developed tow abet.

• First deliveries are expected in Australia in December 2024.

Mahindra XUV700 Dim Edition reviewed

• Chasing Autos deputy editor Curt Dupriez’s written evaluation of the 2024 Mahindra XUV700 used to be published, including his thoughts on the Indian imprint’s midsize SUV challenger.
• Curt mentioned loads of positives including an enticing mark, plenty of normal equipment, willing turbocharged engine and first rate trudge comfort.

• Nonetheless the Mahindra had some sure downsides, reminiscent of small boot enlighten, thirsty engine, lack of a hybrid or diesel offering and carries an unrated security rep.
• In abstract, Curt mentioned this in regards to the XUV700 Dim Edition: “in what it supplies for the money, in particular for determined buyer tastes and budgets, the Dim Edition is comparatively enticing certainly. If one that’s hard to counsel against segment gross sales leaders, budget allowing.”

READ: Hyperlink to written evaluation

The following advise of Automobile Recordsdata This day might possibly be published on Friday 8 November at 4.30pm Sydney time.

The Audi Q6 E-Tron midsize SUV – a twin below the skin to the contemporary Porsche Macan electric – has been priced for Australia.

Ranging from $115,500 earlier than on-facet road charges for the entry-grade Efficiency, the Q6 E-Tron is the foremost Audi to be in accordance with Volkswagen Community’s PPE (Top price Platform Electrical) bespoke EV structure which used to be jointly developed with Porsche.

The Q6 E-Tron fluctuate will land in Australia early in 2025 with a series of three grades, additionally including a mid-spec Q6 E-Tron Quattro for $122,500 and topping out with an SQ6 E-Tron for $151,400.

Crucially for Audi, the Q6 E-Tron – that might well presumably also compete in opposition to top price midsize SUVs take care of the BMW iX3 and Mercedes Benz EQB – will total Audi’s electric SUV lineup in Australia, slotting in between the smaller Q4 E-Tron and bigger Q8 E-Tron, whereas sharing equal dimensions with the a miniature smaller petrol-powered Q5.

A Sportback physique style is additionally slated to be part of the SUV lineup later in 2025, with all variants powered by the equal 100kWh unsuitable battery (94.9kWh useable) and 800-volt structure which delivers maximum DC charging means of 260kW for the Efficiency and 270kW for the Quattro and SQ6.

Audi claims the Q6 E-Tron might well presumably even be charged from 10 to 80 percent price in 21 minutes, alternatively the brand has now not yet confirmed WLTP fluctuate figures for Australia, with the brand announcing that it’s currently in discussions to realize figures particular to the Australian specifications of the Q6 E-Tron.

WLTP fluctuate claims quoted for European spec devices fluctuate between 540 kilometres and 625 kilometres looking on the mannequin and grade.

Audi Q6 E-Tron grade stroll

Long-established across all devices are substances including matrix LED headlights with configurable daylight working lights and gentle signatures, Audi’s most up-to-date crooked show screens which consist of a 14.5-lumber media show and 11.9-lumber virtual cockpit, plus a 10.9-lumber passenger touchscreen too.

The entry-grade rear-wheel power Efficiency substances a single rear-mounted motor, turning in 225kW (240kW with launch modify), passable for a 0-100km/h hotfoot in 6.6 seconds consistent with Audi.

This grade additionally substances 19-lumber alloy wheels, an electrical tailgate, Sport front seats with leather appointed upholstery, tri-zone climate modify, a heated steering wheel to boot to heated front and rear outboard seats, 10-speaker sound plot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and extra.

Meanwhile, the extra mighty dual-motor Quattro is all-wheel power and makes for 285kW of energy, passable for a claimed 0-100km/h hotfoot of 5.9 seconds.

Stepping up to the Quattro will additionally free up additional substances including 20-lumber alloy wheels, to boot to S-Line exterior and internal styling substances amongst other substances.

The fluctuate-topping SQ6 has 380kW of energy and Audi claims a 0-100km/h resolve of 4.3 seconds.

As well to extra energy, the tip-fluctuate mannequin additionally provides substances take care of steel paint, S mannequin styling and matte aluminium substances, a panoramic electric sunroof, 21-lumber wheels, crimson brake callipers, Nappa leather sports actions seats, an augmented actuality head-up show, and 16-speaker Bang and Olufsen top price sound plot amongst.

A series of security substances are approved across the fluctuate including Audi’s most up-to-date independent emergency braking methods, adaptive cruise modify and lane departure warning.

The SQ6 additionally substances particular OLED assist lights that consist of dynamic warning signals that assist point to what actions the car is doing.

A whole lot of possibility packages will additionally be accessible including a Vogue kit, Top price kit and Tech Legitimate kit, unlocking additional substances looking on grade.

All devices will likely be covered by Audi’s 5-year limitless kilometre guarantee and additionally come with six-years of roadside aid and one-year of free charging thru the Chargefox network.

Whereas the exterior intention of the Kia Tasman has dominated indispensable of the on-line reaction since the highly anticipated ute used to be unveiled final week, the powertrains – or powertrain – has been the next-freshest topic.

Launched exclusively with 2.2-litre turbo-diesel energy, indispensable of the most up-to-date speculation about the auto has targeted on what may maybe maybe maybe lie forward for the Tasman in phrases of more-highly efficient petrol variants, to boot to hybrid and electrical alternatives.

Let’s take a leer at what’s confirmed, what’s been hypothesised, and what we’re looking out forward to to leer down the observe.

Four-cylinder turbo-diesel ideal at originate

The only real real powertrain option on hand at originate in Australia will likely be Kia’s acquainted 2.2-litre turbo-diesel inline-four cylinder engine that’s also speak in other fashions such because the Sorrento gargantuan SUV and Carnival of us mover.

This engine produces 154kW of energy and 441Nm of torque, which works key rivals such because the Ford Ranger for energy however no longer torque – that mannequin aspects a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel four cylinder outputting 154kW/500Nm.

Within the Kia, the powertrain is mated to an eight-skedaddle computerized transmission exclusively – no handbook is obtainable – and Kia claims that it may maybe maybe maybe skedaddle from 0-100km/h in 10.4 seconds and mumble a maximum skedaddle of 185km/h.

Turbo-petrol on hand overseas

In Korea, the Tasman will likely be on hand with a 2.5-litre inline-four cylinder turbo-petrol engine, also mated to an eight-skedaddle computerized transmission.

The turbo-petrol engine delivers more energy (206kW) and no more torque (421Nm), yielding a sooner 0-100km/h acceleration deliver of 8.5 seconds; high skedaddle is unchanged at 185km/h.

Heart Eastern and African markets will likely be in a position to make a option from each the turbo-diesel and turbo-petrol fours, on the opposite hand the 2.5-litre isn’t slated for Australia.

Can we inquire of of a petroleum V6?

The prolonged pre-originate hype-put collectively for the Tasman saw indispensable speculation a pair of doable excessive-efficiency variant, potentially utilising the twin-turbo V6 speak in vehicles such because the Kia Stinger and plenty of alternative Genesis fashions.

That 3.3-litre engine makes for energy outputs of 274kW/510Nm, which may maybe maybe maybe give replacement for greater-energy mainline variants.

On the opposite hand, this looks no longer going, no no longer up to for now, primarily as a consequence of the upcoming Unusual Vehicle Effectivity Approved in Australia.

What a pair of excessive-efficiency Raptor rival?

Speaking to Chasing Autos publish originate of the Tasman final week, Kia Australia’s overall manager of product planning Roland Rivero acknowledged: “I perceive the halo accept as true with of a Raptor-delight in car, however we’ve got to be acutely aware of what’s coming”.

“CO2 regulations will likely be right here and if one thing we’re taking a leer at that V6 petrol that’s at speak being passe in our other car traces, whether their respective mixes and roles are going to begin to shrink, on epic of whether we delight in it or no longer, the regulations is right here, it’s coming and the penalties are excessive”.

Rivero added that six-cylinder vehicles fabricate up no longer up to 20 p.c of sales within the ute segment, and that the emblem is “focused on the 80 [percent]” of the ute market made up by four-cylinder sales.

Whereas a future mud-kicking V6 Tasman appears to be like “highly no longer going”, it wasn’t ruled out completely, with Rivero also telling media on the Tasman’s originate final week: “we accept as true with accept as true with a prolonged product cycle and you by no formulation know”, Rivero acknowledged.

What about hybrid and electrical energy?

In discussing doable for a V6 petrol Tasman, it grew to change into obvious that an electrified Tasman option would be more likely in light of the fresh efficiency regulations.

Rivero told media final week that the emblem is “taking a leer at powertrain alternatives within the prolonged speed that will serve [them] navigate via NVES”, and has also previously told Chasing Autos that electrification used to be “surely on the playing cards [for Tasman]”.

Undoubtedly, having developed an all-fresh platform for the Tasman provides it a obvious income in incorporating electrified powertrains and it’d be no longer going for Kia to no longer accept as true with developed the platform without ‘future-proofing’ it for electrification.

On the opposite hand, talking to Chasing Autos publish-originate final week, Rivero also added that whereas electrified alternatives are more likely “down the street” in contrast to a V6, they would have to be added to the lineup “without compromising the issues that customers need and wish”.

“For instance, if it came with the expense of a 3.5 tonne towing skill then we’d have to leer at it in slightly of part”, Rivero acknowledged.

“Nonetheless on the opposite hand, maybe the buyer, the rapidly buyer of the prolonged speed will begin to alter their needs.

“They’re also focused on a greener, smaller carbon footprint also, so maybe needs and wants will replace and we’ve got to evolve and hump with it. The market will within the waste dictate”.

More electrified ute alternatives are now starting up to emerge available within the market.

Final week, BYD announced pricing for its Shark 6 ute, the first trot-in hybrid electrical ute to originate in Australia – priced at $57,900 and handing over whole outputs of 321kW/650Nm – and beating the upcoming Ford Ranger PHEV to market.

Thanks for joining us this Friday 1 November 2024. Particularly in car recordsdata these days: refreshed Honda Civic loses defective petrol but will get recent cheaper hybrid, and Hyundai exhibits recent Initium hydrogen prototype.

Browse this challenge:

• Honda Civic loses defective petrol but will get recent cheaper hybrid
• Hyundai unveils ‘Initium’ hydrogen prototype; possible for Australia
• Toyota’s next EV shall be a Suzuki constructed in India
• Jaguar no longer promoting recent vehicles in UK till 2026
• Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: initiate-top ute idea published
• Reviewed: Isuzu D-Max Blade 2025

Honda Civic loses defective petrol but will get recent cheaper hybrid

• A refreshed Honda Civic is on its strategy to Australia, coinciding with an up to this point lineup that can learn concerning the defective petrol VTi LX discontinued, to fetch replaced by a 2d hybrid variant.

• Joining the hybrid flagship e-HEV LX shall be a brand recent e-HEV L grade, procedure to turn into the recent entry-level into Civic ownership and characteristic the same hybrid powertrain as its extra costly sibling.

• This means that in addition to the Kind R efficiency model, the Civic fluctuate will now be hybrid finest.

• Pricing and specs possess no longer been confirmed for the up to this point fluctuate which prices $47,200 for the VTi LX and $55,000 for the e:HEV LX, nonetheless the recent e-HEV L is needless to claim anticipated to lower designate of entry to hybrid Civic ownership.

• As successfully as changes to the lineup, the mid-lifestyles facelift sees the Civic get hold of subtle revisions to its exterior styling, recent color alternate options, and the latest generation of Honda Connect linked products and services blueprint when it arrives “rapidly” in Australia.

Hyundai unveils ‘Initium’ hydrogen prototype; possible for Australia

• Hyundai has unveiled its ‘Initium’ fuel cell electrical idea vehicle that previews a producing version to abet as an alternative choice to the mark’s Nexo SUV.

• The rugged-having a glimpse prototype appears to be a mid-sized, two-row, five-seater, and is determined to debut next year in manufacturing get hold of  within the first half of of 2025.

• Hyundai is alive to for the manufacturing version to get hold of its strategy to local shores, with Scott Nargar, the mark’s senior supervisor of future mobility and executive relatives in Australia asserting: “we’ll be engaged on getting that car to Australia as an alternative choice to the Nexo”, which is the mark’s latest hydrogen SUV.

• While a producing version is finest months away, minute print on the Initium – which is acknowledged to possess 150kW of vitality and a 650km utilizing fluctuate between refuels – are scarce.

READ MORE: Hyundai unveils Initium hydrogen fuel cell EV idea, and a producing version’s possible Australia-breeze next year

Toyota’s next EV shall be a Suzuki constructed in India

• Toyota’s next electrical vehicle shall be a Suzuki-designed SUV to be constructed by Suzuki in India.

• The two brands possess these days announced their latest joint-collaboration for the recent EV that might perchance well perchance simply stir into manufacturing at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant from 2025.

• While it must be constructed by Suzuki, a joint press initiate confirming the announcement says: “the BEV unit and platform for this model are jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu”.

• It’s that you just might perchance well perchance perhaps think concerning the EV shall be a producing version of the Suzuki EVX idea that became unveiled in 2023.

• While the brands possess partnered on diverse fashions foreign places earlier than, that is at possibility of be the first electrical vehicle to be produced in collaboration between the 2 brands.

• Toyota’s first electrical vehicle, the BZ4X midsize SUV, became launched in Australia earlier this year and is furthermore the finish consequence of a collaboration with Subaru and its Solterra electrical twin.

Jaguar no longer promoting recent vehicles within the UK till 2026

• Jaguar has discontinued its F-Move SUV within the UK, meaning that the iconic British mark no longer has any recent vehicles on sale in its house market.

• The emblem launched a assertion to UK publication Autocar declaring: “From November 2024, recent Jaguar gross sales will attain to an finish earlier than our recent mark level to later this year and product initiate in 2026.”

• While discontinued for the UK, the F-Move remains in manufacturing for foreign places markets alongside side Australia the attach the I-Move and E-Move are furthermore gentle on the market.

• More currently, Jaguar ended manufacturing of its XE and XF sedans and F-Kind sports coupe following miserable gross sales across the sphere, as it prepares to relaunch with a raft of all-recent fashions all per a brand recent JEA (Jaguar Electrical Structure) platform within the coming years.

Toyota LandCruiser Prado: initiate-top idea published

• Toyota has remodeled its recent LandCruiser Prado into an initiate-top ute idea known as the ROX.

• The corpulent and heavily modified idea has a tender-top roof and uncovered cargo house and throws support to classic initiate-top Land Cruisers of weak.

• Sadly, it’s no longer for mass manufacturing, but moderately a one-off idea created by Toyota’s Calty originate studio within the US for the SEMA (Speciality Equipment Market Affiliation) auto level to which takes discipline in Las Vegas next week.

• It’s no longer the correct model Toyota shall be exhibiting off, nonetheless, with a two-door 4Runner TRD Surf Belief furthermore published.

READ MORE: Toyota LandCruiser Prado initiate-top ute: the idea that you just’ve been dreaming of?

Isuzu D-Max Blade 2025 reviewed

• Chasing Vehicles contributor Iain Curry’s initiate overview of the 2025 Isuzu D-Max Blade became published, taking a glimpse on the off-side road special version vehicle which follows the pattern procedure by the likes of the Nissan Navara Warrior and Toyota Hilux GR Sport.
• Inbuilt collaboration with Walkinshaw, who carried out wide local review and pattern for mark spanking recent D-Max Blade, the Isuzu goals to be the most capable version of this ute to this point.

• Priced from $76,990 earlier than on-side road prices, it’s moderately plenty extra costly than an X-Terrain but with modifications love beefier tyres, raised suspension, severe below body protection and an aggressive look equipment to compare; this workhorse goals to be the overall equipment.

• But no extra vitality or torque has been added to the D-Max this time spherical and in all probability some is at possibility of be disappointed Isuzu didn’t stir further, to uncover within the event that they’re authorized contributor Iain Curry travelled to South Australia for our first drive.

READ MORE: Isuzu D-Max Blade 2025 written overview

The next challenge of Automobile News This day shall be published on Monday 4 November at 4.30pm Sydney time.

EV Whisper, BYD’s Australian distributor, has announced the long-awaited pricing and specifications for its first-ever ute, the Shark 6.

Occurring sale in a single excessive-spec Top charge grade, the Shark 6 has been priced at $57,900 before on-road charges.

That locations the Shark 6 at a more affordable level of entry than the GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid which is today priced from $62,990, and loads more affordable than a Toyota Hilux SR5 with 48-volt technology ($63,260).

It’s the principle race-in hybrid ute to launch in Australia. BYD has beaten the Ford Ranger PHEV to market which won’t launch till mid-2025.

The BYD Shark 6 is now on sale in Australia, with first deliveries to starting up in December. The ute will also be ordered from BYD Automobile’s native net pages.

Powertrain, chassis and towing

BYD’s Shark 6 ute utilises a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that is mated to 2 electric motors – one on each axle – that produces combined scheme outputs of 321kW/650Nm.

Offering further energy is a 29.58kWh Blade battery pack. Electrical-simplest differ is estimated to be 100km.

Despite weighing 2710kg, the Shark 6 is ready to scurry to 100km/h in a claimed 5.7 seconds – about the same acceleration one would expertise in a hot hatch.

The brand new BYD ute uses double wishbone suspension entrance and rear and ventilated disc brakes on all four corners. The ute has a most braked towing skill of 2500kg, which is down on the 3500kg general current chanced on in other utes sold on Aussie shores.

Being a race-in hybrid, the Shark 6 will also be charged up to 7kW with AC energy, or a most of 55kW with DC energy. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) is current, allowing owners to bustle energy tools or fridges, as an illustration.

Atypical tools for BYD’s first ute

What exactly attain you gather for your $57,900 before on-road charges? Investigate cross-check the aspects below:

• 15.6-slither rotating centre touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto connectivity
• Head-up brand
• 12-speaker Dynaudio sound scheme
• Satellite tv for computer navigation
• Four USB ports – two USB-C and two USB-A
• 10.25-slither digital instrument cluster
• Electrical energy driver and entrance passenger seats
• Heated and ventilation for entrance seats

• LED headlights, tail lights and sunlight hours working lights
• Keyless entry and commence
• Wireless phone charger
• Twin-zone native weather control
• Four V2L energy outlets (230v, three-pin socket)
• Roof racks
• Rain sensing wipers
• 18-slither alloy wheels with chubby dimension spare
• Continental highway-terrain tyres

How stable is the brand new BYD ute?

The Shark 6 has no longer yet been tested by ANCAP, on the opposite hand a result’s anticipated soon.

As current, the ute comes fitted with the next security aspects:

• Entrance, side, side curtain and much side pressure airbags
• 360-level digicam
• Self sufficient emergency braking
• Hill descent control
• Gleaming and adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning and prevention
• Emergency lane keeping again
• Entrance collision warning
• Rear collision warning

• Visitors signal recognition
• Entrance inappropriate traffic alert and brake
• Rear inappropriate traffic alert and brake
• Blind negate detection
• Trailer stability control
• Child presence detection
• Head-up brand

BYD Shark 6 2024: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road charges.

• Shark 6 Top charge: $57,900

Kia Australia’s extremely-anticipated Tasman ute has staunch been unveiled and it’s treading in the toes of some of essentially the most iconic and standard utility autos in Australia: the Ford Ranger, the Toyota Hilux and the Mitsubishi Triton.

However how does the original Tasman stack up, at least on paper? Successfully, let’s discover!

Ute lineup, pricing when put next

While many utes sold in Australia maintain almost too many variants, the Kia Tasman will launch in three trims: Baseline, X-Line and X-Pro. The Baseline might perhaps even be had with rear-wheel force, however also four-wheel force. X-Line and X-Pro variants feature switchable four-wheel force.

Pricing is yet to be confirmed for the Kia Tasman in Australia.

The Ford Ranger meanwhile, might perhaps even be had in both 4×2 or 4×4 and contains variants XL, XLS, XLT, Sport, Wildtrak, Platinum and Raptor on the very top cease. Pricing ranges from $36,880 to as unheard of as $90,440, each figures before on-motorway costs.

The Mitsubishi Triton is also available in 4×2 or 4×4 guise and currently has a differ which involves GLX, GLX+, GLX-R, GLS and GSR. Prices differ from $30,740 to as unheard of as $63,840 before on-motorway costs for the most sensible-spec GSR variant.

Kia is in consequence of this truth coming into the market with a unheard of smaller variant lineup, however that’s no longer essentially a defective bid.

Powertrains when put next

Kia’s original Tasman will be powered by a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, a the same one to what’s chanced on in the Kia Carnival. In this ute guise, the engine produces 154kW of energy and 441Nm of torque. The Tasman will exercise an eight-tempo automatic and won’t be supplied in Australia at this closing date with a manual transmission option.

The Ford Ranger is supplied with a lot of assorted engine alternate ideas, alongside side a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel four-cylinder engine with outputs of 154kW/500Nm, or in greater variants, a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 engine with 184kW/600Nm. Each might perhaps even be paired with a 10-tempo automatic transmission.

Meanwhile, the original-gen Mitsubishi Triton utilises a single need of engine, a 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel four-cylinder engine that produces 150kW/470Nm and is paired with a six-tempo automatic transmission.

While the Tasman can’t quite meet the lofty energy heights of the Ford/Volkswagen 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, or the torque of a brand original-gen Triton, it’s peaceable smartly on its manner to be staunch for a large need of Australian shoppers.

Off-motorway credentials, towing potential when put next

Cherish many utes available in Australia, Kia’s upcoming Tasman ute has switchable four-wheel force, as smartly as as a lot as 252mm of hunch height. No breakover or departure angles had been published for the ute at this early stage.

Various terrain modes will feature as long-established, alongside side for Snow/Mud/Sand/Rock. A significant wading depth of 800mm points for the Tasman which suits the mighty Ford Ranger.

Kia has confirmed that the Tasman ute will meet the ‘Aussie-ute-long-established’ 3500kg braked towing potential and a payload of as a lot as 1195kg, at least for the rear-wheel-force model.

The new T6.2 Ford Ranger uses both a share-time or elephantine-time four-wheel force machine, and, love the Tasman, permits the motive force the potential to swap between force modes. Ground clearance for the Ranger in Wildtrak guise is 234mm. As eminent above, the Ranger has identical wading depth to the Tasman, rated at a fearless 800mm.

Towing potential for the Ranger is 3500kg braked for a lot of the differ, with maximum payload as a lot as 1150kg on some variants.

Lastly, the Mitsubishi Triton ute uses a Successfully-organized Decide II four-wheel-force machine on its top gadgets and also involves terrain modes, a lockable rear differential and active yaw adjust. It has 228mm of floor clearance and a rated wading depth of staunch 500mm.

As for the Triton’s towing potential, the ute is rated at 3500kg braked and can maintain a maximum payload of as a lot as 1095kg (reckoning on variant chosen).

Identical outdated specification when put next

While some records is peaceable below wraps, the Kia Tasman has been confirmed to receive the following points as long-established:

• 12.3-coast touchscreen
• 12.3-coast digital instrument cluster
• 5.0-coast HVAC adjust conceal
• Optionally available eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound machine
• LED headlights
• LED tail lights
• Sports bar
• Tow bar

Meanwhile, a connected mid-spec Ford Ranger XLT involves:

• 10.1-coast centre touchscreen
• 8.0-coast digital instrument cluster
• LED headlights
• C-form LED daylight operating lights
• 17-coast alloy wheels
• Cloth trimmed seats
• Multi-feature steerage wheel

And the Mitsubishi Triton GLS involves as long-established:

• 9.0-coast centre touchscreen
• 7.0-coast instrument cluster conceal
• 18-coast alloy wheels
• All-terrain tyres
• Successfully-organized Decide II four-wheel force
• Two-tempo transfer case

While it’s very early days for the Kia Tasman, its monitors by myself might perhaps even be a winning system over some of its toughest competitors.

Our first impressions of the Kia’s spec sheet

Though it’s easiest a if truth be told like a flash inquire of on paper, the Kia Tasman undoubtedly offers loads on the spec sheet. While its outputs are down quite when put next to key rivals, it peaceable has class-matching towing and payload capabilities and ample interior tech to preserve most of us occupied.

We’ll maintain to aid and inquire of what it’s love to force, so stop tuned to Chasing Autos for further evaluations, news and movies to reach succor very rapidly!

Thanks for becoming a member of us this Friday 25 October 2024. Particularly in automobile data this day: Mazda Australia has locked in a facelifted BT-50 ute for the principle quarter of 2025, and Isuzu’s flagship D-Max Blade ute has been priced from $76,990 driveaway in Australia.

Browse this ache:

• Mazda BT-50 facelift detailed
• Isuzu’s D-Max Blade priced from $76,990 driveaway
• Zeekr Mix folks-mover published
• CATL develops long differ PHEV battery
• Reviewed: 2025 Audi A5 (the unique ‘A4’)

Mazda BT-50 will get predominant make stronger for 2025

• Mazda Australia has led the worldwide display of the updated BT-50 ute, thanks to Australia being the industrial automobile’s ideally suited market.

• The Eastern automaker has enhanced the BT-50 with a revised front-discontinue come by, unique LED lights, and a redesigned tailgate. Interior, the BT-50 mirrors its platform buddy, the Isuzu D-Max, with a unique 9.0-lunge touchscreen for elevated grades and a elevated 7.0-lunge digital instrument cluster.

• Totally different unique elements consist of the addition of USB-C ports, wi-fi Android Auto cellular phone mirroring, and unique matte shadowy fabricate in the cabin (changing piano shadowy plastic).

• Engine performance remains unchanged: the BT-50 continues to utilise Isuzu’s 1.9- or 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engines.

• Pricing and variant lineup predominant elements are mute unconfirmed for the facelifted Mazda BT-50 that’s expected in Aussie showrooms from the principle quarter of 2025.

Isuzu D-Max Blade published and priced at $76,990 driveaway

• Isuzu Ute Australia has confirmed specification and a $76,990 driveaway mark for its unique flagship D-Max – the off-road-focused Blade that became built in partnership with Walkinshaw Car.

• The Blade is in step with the LS-U+ grade though elements loads of key upgrades..

• Past the automobile’s bolder aesthetics, immense adjustments consist of unique Monroe twin-tube dampers, a 32mm-wider song, 3.0mm underbody bash plates, all-terrain tyres, and tubular side steps.

• The D-Max’s 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine is unchanged for the unique differ-topper, that might perhaps fair disappoint some potential Isuzu traders seeking a extra state rival to the Ford Ranger Raptor.

• The unique D-Max Blade might perhaps very successfully be ordered from Isuzu Ute Australia from 1 November.

Futuristic Zeekr Mix electrical folks-mover published

• Zeekr, the Chinese automaker owned by the Geely Neighborhood and now not too long ago launched in Australia, has published its next folks-mover, the futuristic-searching Mix mannequin.

• Slated as a extra more cost effective folks-mover than the logo’s 009 van, the Mix is electrical finest and powered by the different of both a 76kWh or 102kWh battery pack the utilize of 800-volt architecture.

• Vitality is dispensed to the rear wheels exclusively thru a corpulent 310kW/440Nm electrical motor.

• Fashioned tools is spectacular, with about a of the highlights together with a 15-lunge touchscreen, 13-lunge instrument cluster, double electrical sliding doorways, 19- or 20-lunge alloy wheels, 21-speaker sound machine, a perfume machine, and wi-fi cellular phone charging.

• The Zeekr Mix has been priced in China in a the same bracket to the upcoming Volkswagen ID Buzz, and lets appropriate stumble on it right here in Australia one day.

CATL develops long-differ PHEV battery with 400km differ

• Chinese battery massive CATL has announced an extended-differ battery pack for scramble-in hybrid applications known as the Freevoy Elephantine Hybrid Battery.

• The unique machine permits for an estimated electrical-finest riding differ of 400km, which for reference is four times what the PHEV-powered BYD Shark ute claims.

• The chemistry of the battery is sodium-lithium, however the power source’s energy skill has now not yet been published. It’s at likelihood of take a seat someplace in the neighborhood of 75kWh.

• The predominant automobiles to make utilize of this battery will almost definitely be from Chinese EV makers Li Auto and Changan, but will magnify to other automobile makers with time. Changan has appropriate taken its first step into Australia, partnering with local distributor Inchcape to open the Deepal tag.

• At some point, that you simply might perhaps possibly stumble on the CATL PHEV battery in other successfully-known manufacturers, together with Volvo, BMW, Ford and MG.

2025 Audi A5 reviewed

• Chasing Vehicles contributor Mike Stevens’ open overview of the 2025 Audi A5 became published, together with his suggestions and first impressions on the unique-gen combustion-powered Audi sedan that replaces what became previously ceaselessly known as the A4 sedan.
• Mike became enthused with the unique A5’s improved inner styling and applied sciences, gargantuan rows of seating, and polished travel (now not decrease than in European specification).
• On the opposite hand, Mike additionally chanced on about a misses, such because the dearth of comfortable-hybrid tech for its 2.0-litre petrol engine, a tumble in energy for the 2.0-litre, and smaller boot condominium than sooner than.
• Mike concluded that the “indicators are honest that this final combustion platform is a honest say for Audi and folks traders now not ready to substandard the road into an EV”.

READ: Link to written overview

The next ache of Automobile News Nowadays will almost definitely be published on Monday 28 October at 4.30pm Sydney time.

Mazda Australia has confirmed it goes to bring an updated BT-50 ute to the Australian market within the most important quarter of 2025.

Australia is the critical marketplace for BT-50 globally, as a blueprint to bag time, the Eastern automaker will bring adjustments seen first with its cousin, the Isuzu D-Max, to the BT-50 subsequent yr.

Key highlights embody a revised front terminate build with novel grille, bumper, LED headlights and daring badging to bring the ute extra in accordance with Mazda’s CX build philosophy.

On the rear, yet any other mountainous Mazda badge aspects alongside with novel LED tail lights.

Mazda has also thrown a suite of novel technologies into the BT-50, including a 9.0-inch centre touchscreen and a 7.0-inch instrument cluster for the motive force.

USB-C ports will debut for the most important time, also. Wireless Android Auto will now be fashioned, joining the gift wireless Apple CarPlay.

The emblem has also listened to feedback surrounding piano gloomy plastic and has as a replace long past for matte finishes contained within the BT-50’s cabin.

For the off-road followers, Mazda has followed Isuzu in imposing what it calls tough terrain mode, an honest off-road tool we now bag tested here at Chasing Autos with the newest D-Max.

Through security, the BT-50 now aspects a whole lot of enhancements, including a rear negative web utter online visitors support, AEB with bike detection, enhanced lane preserve support, and a novel reversing camera.

Professional pricing and variant lineup data would per chance be announced closer to launch.

Meaner, more challenging and more capable off-avenue, Isuzu has at final delivered a more tough-core D-Max twin-cab ute with its flagship Blade.

The novel $76,990 drive-away mannequin is actually the most low D-Max offered, featuring a lifted suspension tune, underbody protection, all-terrain tyres and wider stance.

Isuzu customers personal long asked for a more low D-Max, and the Blade will compete with the Toyota Hilux Rouge and GR Sport; Ford Ranger Tremor and Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior when it goes on sale subsequent week on November 1.

The Blade’s price has it within the ballpark against such rivals. On the opposite hand, it’s roughly $20,000 more sensible than a Ford Ranger Raptor to driveaway, even supposing the harsh-core Ford rival stays a standalone outlier of efficiency, ability and complexity within the enhanced twin-cab section.

The Blade is $9000 pricier than Isuzu’s latest flagship X-Terrain ($67,990 drive-away), but the novel ute – of which 400 will most certainly be produced in 2024 – will allure no longer right from a ability point of view, but moreover an elegant one.

Australian developed for Australians

The Blade hasn’t been done on Isuzu’s Thailand production line, but is a re-engineered mannequin achieved within the neighborhood on the smartly-geared up LS-U+ grade.

For the work, Isuzu Ute Australia enlisted Walkinshaw Automotive. The Melbourne-basically basically based totally firm has a prolonged history within the self-discipline, collectively with growing more tough-core variations of the Mitsubishi Triton and Volkswagen Amarok.

It’s been no half of measure, with a team of 60 in-home engineers engaged on the Blade. It’s been three years within the planning and making, has been developed within the neighborhood for Australian off-avenue conditions, and achieved a 100,000km sturdiness program in Melbourne and Outback Australia. That involves the likes of the torturous Gibb River Highway within the Kimberley, Northern Territory.

Unlike a Toyota Hilux GR Sport, there’s been no enhancements to the D-Max’s 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine, while the suspension elevate of 29mm is lower than that of the Navara PRO-4X Warrior’s 40mm.

Ground clearance is now 244mm (a Hilux GR Sport’s is 265mm), while the Blade offers 29.2 stage map, 19.2 departure and 25.2 breakover angles.

Appears to be like advanced, built advanced

The remit, basically basically based totally on Isuzu Ute Australia, became as soon as for the Blade to provide “rugged ability with out compromising on consumer expectations for comfort, versatility and reliability.” Key became as soon as retaining the D-Max’s 3.5-tonne towing skill and 896kg payload.

Walkinshaw has used bespoke Monroe 35mm MTV twin-tube suspension, smartly tuned for local conditions with the Blade-explicit wheel and tyre kit.

Customary springs are retained, but the dampers are 16.6 percent greater than fashioned, offer bigger chassis control, improved temperature administration and improved sturdiness. We’re urged 30 a quantity of damper tunes were evaluated earlier than signal-off testing.

Wheels are an trudge smaller but an trudge wider than a D-Max LS-U+, the satin dim 17×8.5-trudge rims shod in 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain tyres.

The kit widens the D-Max’s monitor by 32mm, which might per chance per chance also restful toughen the car’s handling and balance. Equally valuable to merchants – helped by custom widened wheel arch flares – the Blade has an improved, fatter stance.

The Duratrac RT tyres personal a delicate truck ranking, but as they moreover lift a 3PMSF ranking, are licensed to be used in snowy conditions. That might per chance per chance also restful exhibit ultimate for the more adventurous D-Maxxer.

The customary D-Max’s 1.5mm metal underbody protection’s been chucked in favour of three.0mm metal bash plates, embellished in pink with laser-gash ‘ISUZU’ lettering. In the abet of is a twin hook restoration point system featuring an integrated wicked-member, allowing an 8.0-tonne load from an attitude of up to 35 degrees.

There’s a re-designed satin dim front grille with integrated zigzag 112-Watt lightbar, allowing a delicate sample throw of over 325 metres.

Also added are chassis-mounted tubular facet-steps and prolonged sports actions bar, both in satin dim. The same color is considered on accents for the doors, tailgate badges, mirrors and door handles. Murky decals and ‘BLADE’ badging round off the look.

It’s a in actuality dim affair interior, but the heated leatherette seats characteristic BLADE headrest embroidery, alongside Blade scuff plates and floor mats, plus a obvious numbered make plate on the transmission selector.

As with all D-Max’s, the Blade has Isuzu’s six-365 days/150,000km warranty and five-365 days servicing program with visits costing $449 per 365 days/15,000km.

The novel Blade is at as soon as available to portray from November 1 2024, and its $76,990 driveaway price involves top price paint: white pearl, dim mica, grey mica and hero Sunstone orange mica.

Thanks for joining us this Thursday October 24th 2024. Particularly in car files this day: Skoda reveals a novel minimize-priced Pick variant of the facelifted Octavia, and Mercedes-Benz Australia backflips on embracing PHEV mannequin for the native market.

Browse this mission:

• Skoda Octavia Pick priced from $39,590 checklist
• Mercedes-Benz and AMG set for PHEV influx in 2025
• Stellantis participating with US open-up for solid whisper batteries
• MG 3 scores three-huge establish ANCAP security ranking
• Reviewed: 2024 BYD Dolphin Top charge

Skoda reveals charge-busting Octavia Pick, enter from below $40K

• Skoda Australia has detailed a novel Pick variant of its newly facelifted Octavia midsize passenger car vary, which begins from $39,590 earlier than on-roads, or $41,990 on nationwide driveaway for the sedan model.
• The wagon model of the novel Pick lists for $41,090, or $43,990 on nationwide driveaway offer. Both of those entrance-force versions fit a 110kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine and an eight-dart computerized transmission.
• Suggestions for the Pick grade consist of 18-creep alloy wheels, LED lighting, 13.0-creep multimedia machine with sat-nav, 10.0-creep digital driver’s cowl cowl, wireless mobile phone mirroring and 15w inductive charging, and a series of security equipment in conjunction with newly presented reversing AEB.
• The Pick will likely be joined by a facelifted 1.4-powered Sportline grade and the efficiency-spec 2.0-litre turbo RS variants in Q1 2025.

Mercedes-Benz and AMG set to invent a PHEV push in 2025

• After declaring it can well perhaps largely shun the inch-in hybrid format in favour of a heavy ICE and BEV mannequin mix absorbing forward, it appears to be like Mercedes-Benz Australia is readying a bevy of PHEV units and variants to roll out thru 2025.
• Now confirmed for native free up is the Mercedes-AMG E fifty three Hybrid 4Matic+, which melds a 330kW/560Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with 120kW/480Nm of electrical motor support for mixed outputs of 450kW (in Fling mode) and 750Nm.

• Mercedes-Benz Australia confirmed to Chasing Vehicles that the inch-in AMG E fifty three will advance within the neighborhood subsequent twelve months, even though wouldn’t be drawn into extra issue timing.

• It’s rumoured that the C350e inch-in sedan would additionally be a part of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class line-up, along with other PHEV variants in 2025 which would possibly perhaps very smartly be but to be confirmed by the native importer.

Stellantis to invent solid whisper batteries, demonstrators on roads by 2026

• Stellantis has confirmed this would possibly perhaps introduce a demonstration instant of electrical vehicles using solid whisper battery chemistries as soon as 2026.

• The batteries will likely be sourced by US startup Factorial and will most likely be suited for the upcoming Dodge Charger Daytona, a muscle car mannequin built on the STLA Big platform.

• Basically based on Automotive Info, Hyundai, Kia and Mercedes-Benz are additionally patrons on this moderately novel company, which used to be founded in 2013.

• Stable whisper batteries are set to be extra atmosphere friendly, extra mighty and vital safer than the most modern lithium-iron phosphate chemistry trace in a variety of the arena’s electrical vehicles.

• The suggestions comes after MG confirmed only currently that this would possibly perhaps carry what will most likely be the first solid whisper batteries to the market, a prime twelve months sooner than Stellantis.

MG 3 scores a three-huge establish ANCAP security ranking

• The 2024 MG 3 compact hatchback has scored a lowly three stars with the Australiasian Original Car Evaluation Program (ANCAP) security checking out.
• Right here’s the second time in twelve months that an MG mannequin scored decrease than 5 stars, the ‘3’ following on from the headline-grabbing zero derive awarded to the MG5 in tiresome 2023. The marque’s electrical MG4 and most modern HS SUV carry full 5-huge establish outcomes.
• Below ANCAP’s most modern protocols, the MG3 scored 72 p.c for grownup occupant protection, 74 p.c for child protection, 76 p.c for weak aspect road person and good 58 p.c for security abet. It used to be this final derive, two aspects disquieted of a ‘60-p.c four-huge establish’ threshold, tha anchored the MG3’s general ranking to three stars.

• The MG3 competes in opposition to Toyota Yaris and Volkswagen Polo, every awarded 5 stars by ANCAP, apart from to the Suzuki Swift Hybrid, which is but to be tested.

BYD Dolphin Top charge reviewed

• Chasing Vehicles journalist Zak Adkins’ written overview of the 2024 BYD Dolphin Top charge used to be printed, in conjunction with his suggestions and impressions on the more cost-effective electrical hatchback.
• By the allege of positives, Adkins praised the mannequin’s unbelievable charge for money, cheerful gallop quality, decent electrical vary and stacks of traditional security gear.
• Issues Adkins idea will likely be improved incorporated the car’s torque steer below acceleration, puny lack of precision and the absence of a twin-motor variant.
• All in all, Adkins concluded his overview by declaring that “the Dolphin is cracking fine charge for money. Whereas you’re after a prime car, and even a second car for the weekend, the Dolphin is set as fine because it will get by strategy of traditional gear, gallop consolation and tech for $45K on the aspect road”.

READ: Link to written overview

The next mission of Car Info This day will likely be printed on Friday 25 October at 4.30pm Sydney time.