2020 Renault Kadjar SUV July drive away pricing

Renault Australia has announced drive away pricing across its Kadjar SUV range for July. Kadjar Life trim starts from $28,990 drive away, with Zen and Intens grades priced at $31,990 and $36,990 drive away respectively. These represent a further $2500 discount on June drive away pricing for the Kadjar. The 2020 Renault Kadjar line-up uses a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine, sending 117kW and 260Nm through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to the front wheels.

Holden dealers sign $150 million compensation deal

The majority of Holden dealers have finally signed compensation packages – worth a combined value of close to $150 million – with US car giant General Motors. It follows a protracted legal battle that spilled onto the political field and caught the attention of Australia’s peak consumer and business watchdog. In the end, General Motors did not increase its initial offer by $1. Dealers who are yet to sign say they have not given up the fight with Detroit.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan R revealed as flagship of new-look range

The Volkswagen Tiguan family SUV has received a mid-life update four years after this generation went on sale in Australia – and promises another step towards autonomous driving tech, and the option of a high performance model for the first time.

2020 BMW Z4 sDrive20i review

It’s hard not to feel BMW drew the short straw when it entered into a joint-development project with Toyota for their dizygotic twins – the BMW Z4 and the Toyota Supra. While the Supra has already established itself as a bona-fide sports car, hell, even a potential future classic, the Z4 enters the game as, well, just another sporty-looking convertible.

Fixing Fortuner: Bring back the 4Runner and Surf

Oh Fortuner. If there was ever a car that seemed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory in the Australian new car market, it is Toyota’s HiLux-based 4WD wagon, the Fortuner.

2021 MG HS Essence Anfield, MG ZS Essence Anfield pricing announced

Australian pricing for two new soccer-celebrating MG models has been announced, with the new 2020 MG HS Essence Anfield and 2020 MG ZS Essence Anfield SUVs launching this week. Both Anfield models – named for Liverpool's home stadium – have been announced to commemorate the Liverpool Football Club's drought-breaking win in last week's English Premier League championship.

2021 Volkswagen Touareg price and specs

Volkswagen Australia has announced pricing and specification for its 2021 Touareg SUV line-up ahead of a local showroom debut in October. The 190TDI V6 has been dropped from the Touareg line-up, with a new Euro 6 compliant 3.0-litre V6 diesel powering 170TDI, 210TDI Elegance and 210TDI R-Line variants. A Bentley-sourced 4.0-litre diesel V8 motivates the range-topping Touareg V8 TDI R-Line.

The true story behind Porsche's ultra-rare barn find

It’s hard to imagine today, but the Porsche 911 wasn’t always called the ‘911’. Having unveiled the successor to its popular 356 at the 1963 Frankfurt motor show it was billed as the Porsche 901, its internal project number. Production of the 901 started in the autumn of 1964 but a trademark dispute with Peugeot, which claimed it owned the rights for three-digit car numbers with a ‘0’ in the middle, went in favour of the French brand.

Ineos Grenadier: Modern answer to Land Rover Defender on sale next year

Ineos Automotive – the newly-formed car making subsidiary of chemical-producing giant Ineos – has unveiled its Grenadier off-roader and confirmed technical details and Australian timing. The Ineos Grenadier will come in both long and short wheelbase options, with wagon and utility body styles. A double-cab ute body will also be built, with all variants to be made available for the Australian market. Wagon-bodied Grenadiers will go on sale first, with ute bodies to follow.

Revideo: 2020 Ford Ranger vs Toyota HiLux comparison review

Like their sales figures, it is honestly very hard to separate these utes. Each time one pulls ahead, the other counters in a different way. More tech, Ford. Better ergonomics, Toyota. Rear passenger comfort, Ford. Longer load area, Toyota. Cheaper to buy, HiLux. Cheaper to run, Ranger. You can play tit-for-tat in every possible way, but in our mind it comes down to one key outcome. So, tune in and see which we reckon is king of the hill.

Rare 1965 Ford GT Roadster expected to sell for $10 million

An extremely rare Ford GT Roadster could fetch as much as $USD10 million ($AUD14.5 million) when it goes up for auction in the US next month. This 1965 Ford GT Competition Prototype Roadster was one of 12 pre-production GT40s made, of which five were Roadsters, and only three Roadsters are known to have survived. This car – chassis GT/109 – is the only Ford GT Roadster to have raced at Le Mans.

2021 Bentley Bentayga review: prototype

What a difference four months makes. CarAdvice got to experience the new, revised Bentayga in South Africa back in early February, when COVID had barely impinged on the international consciousness, and when we’d be able to drop the story to coincide with the car’s official unveiling in April.

2021 Bentley Bentayga revealed, plug-in hybrid inbound

British luxury marque Bentley has revealed its updated Bentayga SUV, with new styling, cabin tech and an updated plug-in hybrid engine option in the works. The updated four-, five- and seven-seater Bentayga will be powered by a familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 producing 404kW/770Nm at launch, but will be joined by plug-in hybrid and 6.0-litre W12 engine ‘Speed’ variants later on. Outputs and driving range for the upgraded plug-in hybrid have not been revealed.

Peugeot 308 gets a price increase

Peugeot Citroen Australia (PCA) has increased the prices of the entire 308 range in Australia. The Allure petrol hatch will start from $30,490 plus on-road costs, newly introduced Allure petrol Sportswagon from $32,490 plus on-roast costs, and GT Line petrol hatch from $34,990 plus on-road costs. These new prices reflect an average increase of 6 per cent across the range since the launch of the 2020 model-year Peugeot 308 range in April.

2021 Hyundai Tucson previewed by Vision T concept - UPDATE: video tour

UPDATE: Making what it can from lockdown conditions, Hyundai has had its design chief SangYup Lee present a walkaround tour of the Vision T concept that will inform the look of the new 2021 Hyundai Tucson. The new Tucson has been spied testing in recent months, and you can learn more here. November 21, 2019: If you think this dramatic concept vehicle looks like something from the future, you’d be right.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan revealed in new spy photos

The updated 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan has been spied without camouflage this week, in what is sure to be final testing. Volkswagen released a stylised teaser sketch for the German SUV's new look in April, but did not confirm an official unveiling date at the time – likely a result of the unfolding COVID-19 lockdown conditions. At this stage, we could see the 2021 Tiguan join the growing circus of online unveilings, ahead of an Australian debut expected for the second quarter of 2021.

More affordable rear-wheel-drive Porsche Taycan lands in China

A new base-model Porsche Taycan has debuted in China, devoid of additional badges like its 4S, Turbo, and Turbo S siblings. This new Porsche Taycan model only has a single electric motor powering the rear wheels, unlike the all-wheel-drive models currently available to buy in Australia. While the most affordable Taycan currently available in Australia is the 4S, which starts at $191,000 plus on-road costs, the new base model has been priced from 888,000 yuan – or roughly AU$182,747.

Elon Musk sends intriguing email to Tesla staff about 'breaking even'

Tesla could 'break-even' in its second-quarter results for 2020 despite the effects of the global coronavirus pandemic, according to a leaked email in which CEO Elon Musk appears to be rallying employees of the electric car manufacturer. Featuring the subject line "down to the last few days", Musk's email, which was obtained by CNBC, reportedly encouraged staff to "go all out" with vehicle production and deliveries in the last few days of the April-June quarter.

2021 Nissan Ariya electric SUV revealed in patent - UPDATE: July 15 debut confirmed

UPDATE: Nissan has confirmed a July 15 unveiling for its new 2021 Ariya electric SUV, following the now iconic Leaf as Nissan's second all-electric offering. A single shadowy teaser image has been released in the lead-up to the big event, but, as the below design patent images show, the new model should remain fairly loyal to the concept revealed in October last year.

2020 Audi RS6, RS7 price and specs

Australian pricing for the 2020 Audi RS6 Avant and 2020 Audi RS7 Sportback has been revealed today, following their global unveiling late last year. Due in showrooms from July 24, the new German super twins are priced from $216,000 for the RS6 wagon and $224,000 for the RS7 liftback sedan. Both prices exclude on-road costs.

2021 BMW 220i Gran Coupé price and specs revealed

BMW Australia has announced the 2021 BMW 220i Gran Coupé will be added to the 2 Series model line-up, arriving Down Under sometime in late 2020. The BMW 220i Gran Coupé will be priced from $53,990 plus on-road costs, slotting in between the BMW 218i Gran Coupé at $49,990 plus on-road costs and the 220i Coupé at $56,900 plus on-road costs. BMW increased pricing on 2 Series models in June 2020.

2021 Land Rover Defender Hard Top revealed

From the UK comes news that Land Rover is to revive its Hard Top moniker – a name that traces its roots back to the 1950s – for use on commercial vehicle variants of the new Defender 90 and Defender 110 4x4 range. While the revived Defender has copped some criticism from purists for leaving rough and rugged origins behind, in favour of a much more modern construction and platform, the Hard Top range is set to keep things relatively simple.

2021 Geneva Motor Show cancelled, put up for sale

The organisers of the Geneva International Motor Show have announced the event will not go ahead in 2021 and placed the entire show up for sale, citing the 'financial consequences' of the coronavirus pandemic as the reason for the decision.

Polestar launches international design competition

The electric luxury performance arm of Volvo, Polestar, has launched an international car design competition. The brief, titled 'Pure', states that designers are to envision a car that would be representative of the Polestar brand in the year 2040, pushing the boundaries of imagination without being unrealistic. Polestar, which was originally born from a race car team, is considered by many to be an alternative to Tesla. It is jointly owned by Volvo and its parent company Geely.

Flock of Tesla Model Xs flap Falcon wings

A video has emerged showing a group of Tesla Model X SUVs flapping their doors in what could almost be considered a performance. Posted on Instagram by user @khalidfaisal, the owners are utilising a (not-so) secret feature known as the Holiday Light Show. A post shared by Khalid Faisal (@khalidfaisal) on Jan 31, 2020 at 5:06am PST

2020 Mini Cooper S review: 5-door automatic

Tiny cars with big engines have long been a recipe for fun. Mini gets it. The original Austin Mini Cooper and Morris Mini Cooper twins of the 1960s laid the foundations for the ‘tight handling, tiny car, generous engine’ format. Today's Mini owes almost nothing to the original, except for a few hints of visual pastiche, but that’s okay given that almost 60 years spans the arrival of the first Cooper-badged specials and this current Cooper S.

2021 Audi Q5 revealed

Audi has revealed details of its updated Q5, with the medium SUV set to gain new styling and technology for 2021. The 2021 Audi Q5 gets a new single frame grille design that has been separated from the bonnet. A new headlight design has a redesigned daytime running light. Elements of the front bumper and air intakes have been inspired by the brand’s hotter RS models, with a new line on the side of the body and rear diffuser adding a sportier look.

Jaguar Land Rover hydrogen SUV is coming

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is developing an SUV based on a hydrogen fuel cell platform, according to an announcement from the UK government. The hydrogen SUV program, known as Project ZEUS, is part of a £73.5 million (AU$132.2M) UK government initiative to develop low emission vehicles. Project ZEUS stands for 'zero and low-emissions vehicles in urban society'.

2021 Hyundai Tucson spied with large infotainment screen – report

Spy photos have revealed the 2021 Hyundai Tucson may be offered with a large infotainment screen. A photo released on The Korean Car Blog website shows Hyundai could be moving towards a Tesla-like interior command screen. The large floating tablet screen will likely be offered in top-end versions of the Hyundai Tucson range, expected in 2021. Spy photos have previously shown the new Tucson will offer a traditional button console on more affordable grades.

Volkswagen ID.3 R electric hot-hatch coming in 2024 – report

A hotted-up 'R' version of Volkswagen’s upcoming all-electric ID.3 hatch could arrive as soon as 2024, according to a new international report. British magazine Autocar (which created the artist impression above) reports senior management at Volkswagen are close to signing off on the ID.3 R project, which would see extra electric grunt added to the standard ID.3 hatch.

2021 Hyundai i30N due early next year: more power, sharper look

Hyundai is putting the finishing touches on the updated i30N, testing in the German summer at the Nurburgring race circuit ahead of a likely showroom arrival in Australia early next year. As has been reported, the update to Hyundai’s first ever hot hatch will coincide with the arrival of the current model’s midlife facelift.

BMW X7: 2021 Alpina XB7 price and specs

BMW tuning company Alpina has announced pricing and specification for its new XB7 seven-seater SUV ahead of its Australian arrival in early 2021. The XB7 – based on a BMW X7 M50i xDrive – receives Alpina’s signature touches including increased engine power, improved driving dynamics and styling changes inside and out.

Car industry reports a surprising boom in June

Car dealers are running low on new vehicles to sell after being caught short due to an unexpected increase in demand in June – compounded by factory shutdowns during the coronavirus crisis – however industry insiders say the market is still a long way from a full recovery. Preliminary figures for new-car sales in June have industry insiders predicting it will be the second month in a row of growth after the market posted a 30-year low in April and a 23-year low in May.

Hyundai still not sold on permanent seven-year warranty

Hyundai is holding back on rolling out a permanent seven-year warranty across its range to match sister brand Kia – even though it was the pioneer of longer vehicle warranties, establishing five-year coverage more than 20 years ago. Hyundai introduced a seven-year warranty on most models in its range from October through to the end of December in 2019, and has applied the extra coverage intermittently to a smaller number of models in the first half of 2020.

New calls for stamp duty reforms. Are you paying too much?

The car industry has renewed calls for states and territories to standardise motor vehicle stamp duties across Australia – as figures show the cost varies from $360 to $1500 on an identical $35,000 family car. Stamp duty is a state tax and one of the many charges that is bundled within on-road costs for both new and used cars. On cars that cost $100,000, the stamp duty can vary from $3400 in one jurisdiction to $7900 in another.

2020 Toyota HiAce review: Super LWB diesel

After a hugely long and mostly successful production run, the Toyota HiAce has had a thorough reinvention. It’s a new look over the top of a new chassis, with a ‘semi-bonneted’ mechanical layout that offers more space, safety and comfort compared to the old forward-control HiAce. If you want a pure workhorse that’s destined to never leave the bitumen, there’s a chance that this HiAce might be a much better choice than the omnipresent 4x4 ute. Controversial, I know, but bear with me.

Post-coronavirus car care: 14 checks you should do before a road trip

Even the most avid drivers have probably spent a fair amount of time off the roads these past few months, with mandatory lockdowns leaving us all with nowhere to go except the local supermarket. While our project cars might have gotten plenty of love, our actual day-to-day cars may have been left idle – tucked away in the garage, driveway or side street waiting for their moment in the sun.

Million-dollar Holden Monaro sells for $715,000

A classic Holden Monaro has sold at auction over the weekend for $715,000 – short of the expected $1 million – but the car is deemed so valuable it could be banned from being exported because it is classified as a national treasure. The 1969 Holden Monaro GTS350 V8 was the company’s first factory-funded race car – and only the second Holden to win Bathurst.

Clamp down on personalised plates that promote speed

State transport authorities are starting to clamp down on personalised number plates that could be interpreted as being offensive or promoting speed. A Facebook user this week claimed he was knocked back by Queensland Transport attempting to buy number plates that suggested his car was "quick". "I just had a phone call from PPQ regarding new number plates I ordered online the other day," the anonymous Facebook user wrote.

Aston Martin AMB 001 motorcycle begins testing

Normally we cover vehicles with four tyres and a steering wheel here at CarAdvice, but when iconic British car maker Aston Martin begins testing of the AMB 001 – its first ever motorcycle – you tend to make an exception. Co-developed with motorcycle specialist Brough Superior, the AMB 001 will be produced in a limited-run of just 100 examples. Priced from €108,000 (AU$176,000) before taxes, customer deliveries are expected towards the end of 2020.

Nissan Australia says car market is looking up, despite tough start to 2020

The boss of Nissan Australia is confident the new-car market will recover quicker than expected in the wake of the coronavirus crisis – once production ramps back up to normal levels. “The issue of where 2020 ends up is a really good question,” Nissan Australia boss Stephen Lester told CarAdvice. “We’ve all spent a lot of time looking for whoever it is with the crystal ball that can tell us exactly that.

2020 Porsche 718 Spyder review

Supercars need to adhere to an unofficial set of rules: without neck-snapping looks they’re nothing; a brilliant engine is essential; and (yes, really) there should be a degree of impracticality built in to ward off those with only a casual dedication. They should also cost a bomb, but is the last one really essential? The 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder hits all the supercar high notes, but does so with a slightly more grounded price tag.

2020 Subaru XV Hybrid review

In a case of late to the party, Subaru has finally entered the electrified era, releasing its first hybrid vehicles in Australia this year, including the 2020 Subaru XV Hybrid. It couldn’t have come at a better time for the Japanese carmaker, with hybrid motivation increasingly popular among consumers – witness the ongoing shortage of RAV4 Hybrid stock. So, how has Subaru approached this new era of electrification? Let’s find out.

2020 Honda Civic VTi hatch review

It’s easy to overlook a base-model car as most brands promote the sexier, sportier, higher-grade models. You don’t always need to move up the range to get the best version, though. Case in point: the 2020 Honda Civic VTi hatch. The Honda Civic range has been updated in two parts: the sedan first with updates arriving in early 2019, and the hatch (which was also launched later) following almost one year later.

Lamborghini SCV12 teased, track-only weapon to debut soon

Italian supercar maker Lamborghini has teased its new track-only SCV12 hypercar before a reveal expected in the coming weeks. The SCV12 will feature Lamborghini’s most powerful naturally-aspirated V12 ever. The engine produces 619kW at high speeds thanks to “aerodynamic supercharging” which sees a specially-designed, roof-mounted intake scoop create a ram-air effect, forcing air into the engine at an increased pressure.

Cars you didn’t know you want: Lancia Thema 8.32

No one could ever accuse the Lancia Thema of being a good-looking car. The archetypical box on wheels, Lancia’s mid-size executive saloon rarely challenged the likes of BMW and Mercedes for the hearts and wallets of mid-level managers everywhere. But… One variant of the Lancia Thema stirred the soul, continues to stir the soul even today, some 34 years after it first made its debut.

Kia shows off clutch-by-wire technology for mild-hybrid cars

Kia has revealed details of its new clutch-by-wire technology that allows use of a conventional manual transmission with mild-hybrid and start-stop systems. Modifying the traditional hydraulic system used to actuate clutches in manual cars – which is connected directly to the vehicle’s clutch pedal – Kia’s ‘intelligent manual transmission’ (iMT) places a module between the pedal and the hydraulics.

Around the tracks: Tesla's Burger King confusion and a Ferrari 250 GTO in London

When we’re not creating it ourselves, the CarAdvice team spends a lot of time finding and consuming motoring content from all over the world. Here’s a handful of the photos, articles, videos or social media posts that most caught our eye last week. Some of them are brand new, others have been online for a while. Enjoy them – just not too much, okay?

2021 BMW M3 spied with M Performance parts - UPDATE: teaser video

UPDATE: BMW M has released a tasty teaser development video for its upcoming new M3. We've embedded it at the end of this story. The new-generation 2021 BMW M3 has been spied testing numerous times, and this week it has been spied again with a number of enhancements. Although it wears as much camouflage as we've seen previously, a few visible extras make it clear – or as clear as can be at this stage – that this car is likely equipped with some M Performance goodies.

2020 Ferrari SF90 Stradale review

In Ferrari’s carefully stratified universe, there are different classes of both cars and buyers. At the top of the heap are the so-called ‘special’ cars – the limited editions that only the brand’s very best friends are allowed to own. And the only way you can prove you are such a loyal mate is through buying a substantial number of the company’s lesser models.

Turbo Mazda3 officially teased, but no details given

A short video has been released by Mazda teasing the reveal date of what could be a turbocharged Mazda3. The unlisted video was shared in a handful of tweets by the car manufacturer, replying to rumours of the new turbo model and adding: "Power comes to those who wait". Sounds of an engine being revved can be heard on the video, while graphics indicate the reveal date will be 8 July 2020. In another tweet, Mazda wrote: "Keep calm and stay tuned. Plenty of time to rush where we're going."

Lordstown Endurance electric ute revealed, Rivian R1T shown in testing

The fully-electric 2021 Lordstown Endurance dual-cab ute made its official debut overnight, featuring an individual electric motor on each of its four wheels. Lordstown claims the Endurance has the fewest moving parts of any production vehicle, all but eliminating mechanical fatigue and significantly reducing maintenance costs.

2021 Ford F-150: world’s biggest selling pick-up gets major overhaul

The 2021 Ford F-150 will be able to be driven hands-free in certain conditions while a hidden camera makes sure the driver is paying attention, as one of the world’s biggest selling vehicles takes a step towards autonomous driving. It will also make a step towards zero emissions driving, with a hybrid version of this model arriving about two years ahead of a full electric model, the company said.

2021 Ram 1500 TRX: Ford F-150 Raptor rival a chance for Australia

The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has been teased in a video released in the US overnight – and the V8-powered rival to the Ford F-150 Raptor could be sold in Australia. Overseas reports claim it will be powered by a supercharged V8, however this is yet to be confirmed. The boss of Ram Trucks Australia, Neville Crichton, says he is exploring the possibility of adding the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX to the local line-up.

2021 Hyundai Palisade SUV confirmed for Australia

The Hyundai Palisade SUV – a rival to the Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-9 and Nissan Pathfinder in the US – has been confirmed for Australia and will arrive in local showrooms by the end of this year. Prices and exact details are yet to be released, however the Hyundai Palisade SUV is expected to cost between $50,000 and $70,000 and sit above the Hyundai Santa Fe in the line-up.

Hyundai’s new model roll-out: 11 cars in 11 months

Hyundai plans to introduce 11 new or updated models in the next 11 months – its biggest product blitz since the brand was established in Australia in 1986. The massive new-model roll-out is designed to reverse a four-and-a-half year sales slide, the biggest slump for the brand since the Global Financial Crisis a decade ago. The cavalcade of cars will start with one of the most advanced vehicles on the road, although it will be sold in relatively small numbers.

Lexus LC F project suspended, but new twin-turbo V8 lives on

Development of the Lexus LC F sportscar has reportedly been suspended, according to Japanese website Car Sensor. The flagship Lexus coupe was expected to be launched in late 2020 with a twin-turbo V8, with some rumours suggesting the car would be all-wheel-drive. On June 22 Toyota announced it would be gradually slowing its Japanese assembly lines, blaming COVID-19 for shrinking sales and dwindling factory output.

Hyundai Santa Cruz remains on wish list, double-cab ute still on track

Hyundai Australia has not given up on its bid to introduce the upcoming Santa Cruz pick-up (depicted in an artist impression by Kolesa.ru, above) – and has confirmed a separate heavy-duty double-cab ute rival to the Toyota HiLux remains on track despite the coronavirus crisis. While Hyundai remains tight lipped about its first foray into the booming ute market, it has confirmed the US Santa Cruz is still on its wish list.

Next Genesis showroom, two new models coming this year

Hyundai's luxury brand Genesis is about to start rolling out a range of new or updated sedans and SUVs to fill out its expanding dealer network across Australia. To date there is only one Genesis showroom, which opened in the heart of the Sydney CBD shopping precinct in early 2019.

Hyundai i20N hot hatch confirmed for Australia, due next year

The Hyundai i20N hot hatch has been confirmed for Australia, due in local showrooms next year, however pricing and technical details are yet to be announced. Hyundai of Europe has been teasing the arrival of the i20N hot hatch and disguised examples have been caught on camera testing on the Nurburgring. However, mystery still surrounds what will power the Hyundai i20N hot hatch.

Video: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB review

Mercedes Benz is continuing its alphabetical SUV onslaught with another new model joining the local ranks. We’ve seen GLA and GLC – so now let's welcome the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 4Matic. Three models are on offer from launch, GLB 200, our car the 250 4 Matic, and the sportier GLB35 AMG. The GLB name would have you think this slots neatly between GLA and GLC – but it’s not that simple. Find out why...

2020 Toyota Kluger GX review

Although it’s old and due for replacement, the Toyota Kluger has proved to remain immensely popular with Australian SUV buyers. It’s part of the Japanese manufacturer’s SUV best-seller trifecta, including the LandCruiser Prado and RAV4. Now it’s in runout mode, Toyota has put the Kluger range on sharp drive-away pricing. And we’ve got the most cost-effective ticket right here: the 2020 Toyota Kluger GX.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 4Matic review

The Mercedes-Benz SUV alphabet continues to roll on with GLA, GLC, GLE and GLS now being joined locally by the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB. It forms part of the new compact range and shares its underpinnings with the A, B, CLA and soon-to-be-updated GLA-Class models. While the boxy GLB looks like an evolution of the early GLK sold overseas, it sets about blending the functionality of an MPV with the format of an SUV, and is naturally offered as an AMG alongside regular versions. Clear? Well okay!

2021 Genesis G70 revealed in factory photo leak

The refreshed 2021 Genesis G70 has been revealed ahead of time this week, thanks to a pair of leaked photos. Surfacing on The Korean Car this week, these images offer our best look yet at the G70's complete front and rear makeover. Where the premium sedan previously wore a handsome if somewhat anonymous look, its midlife refresh brings the car in line with the new-generation G80 sedan with its unique 'double-line Quadlamp' lighting and 'Crest Grille'.

Ultra-rare Lamborghini Diablo expected to sell for $1 million

An ultra-rare Lamborghini Diablo GTR race car is expected to fetch in excess of $1 million when it goes under the hammer in an Australian online auction this weekend. One of just 30 examples ever made, the Diablo GTR was designed for competition, replacing the Diablo SV-R raced in the Diablo Super Trofeo series. The GTR, based on the roadgoing Diablo GT, was unveiled to the public at the 1999 Bologna motor show before making its racing debut in 2000.

Tesla places last in US quality study

Electric vehicle maker Tesla has placed last in a US-based study that surveys problems reported by buyers of new-cars within the first 90 days of ownership. Conducted by J.D Power, the Initial Quality Study (IQS) uses a metric of ‘problems per 100 vehicles’ (PP100), ranking overall brand quality with a numeric score – the lower, the better.

Lotus Exige 20th Anniversary edition revealed

British sports car maker Lotus has announced a limited-edition version of its Exige to celebrate the model’s 20th anniversary. Built on the foundation of the Exige Sport 410 coupe – which cops a mid-mounted, 302kW/420Nm 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine and six-speed manual transmission – the 20th Anniversary edition will be limited to just 150 examples globally. Click here for a full rundown of the Lotus Exige’s pricing and specs.

Fiat-Chrysler gets billions in record European crisis loan

The audit court in Italy has formally approved a crisis loan to Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the largest ever to a European automaker according to a report by news agency Reuters. The record €6.3 billion loan received criticism from locals after FCA moved its headquarters to the Netherlands ahead of a merger with Peugeot-Citroen-Opel (PSA), but Italian authorities have offered assurances that the money will remain in the country.

2022 Ford Ranger Raptor to get twin turbo V6 petrol

The 2022 Ford Ranger Raptor is expected to adopt twin turbo V6 petrol power – and arrive hot on the heels of the regular Ranger line-up. While this is an artist impression of the 2022 Ford Ranger Raptor – and the real deal could look substantially different – the good news is we won't need to wait too long to see the production version. Today’s Ford Ranger Raptor performance pick-up arrived in 2018, seven years after the regular versions of this generation Ranger went on sale.

2022 Ford Ranger: 3.0 TDV6, 2.0 bi-turbo, advanced tech

The next generation Ford Ranger will get a bold new look and a major power boost – including the option of a V6 turbo diesel from its big brother F-150 – and a long list of advanced technology when it goes on sale late next year or early 2022. Our artist impressions of the base model Ford Ranger XL and volume-selling Ford Ranger XLT – based on leaked images of early design studies – show the next generation will adopt hints of the Ford F-150 design.

2022 Volkswagen Amarok: what we know so far, and what we want to find out

The new Volkswagen Amarok is expected to have a choice of at least two engines – a twin turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel and a single turbo 3.0-litre V6 diesel – backed by 10-speed automatic transmissions, when it goes on sale in 2022. While exact timing of the new model is yet to be confirmed, CarAdvice understands the next generation Volkswagen Amarok will arrive approximately six to 12 months after the Ford Ranger on which it is based (artist impression pictured below).

Modern VW Kombi: California Beach camper sold out

The modern Volkswagen Kombi – the California Beach camper – has sold out in one day despite an $82,990 price, as Australians prepare to holiday at home in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. And the eager buyers won’t take delivery of their new camper van until later this year due to production delays caused by COVID-19 lockdowns.

Rendered: our Mazda CX-50 takes BT-50 into the SUV space

What if Mazda followed its rivals into four-wheel-drive SUV territory and added a wagon variant to the BT-50 line-up? We give you the 2021 Mazda CX-50, our speculative concept of how such a model might look. Alright, let's talk about the name. Given its size, we initially felt something like CX-90 or even CX-100 would make good sense, sitting it either alongside or above the CX-9 on sheer dimensions alone.

2020 BMW M2 CS review: Track test

We’ll say it now to curtail any suspense: you’re looking at the best driver’s car BMW produces right now. High praise, we’ll admit. But after a day spent lapping the new 2020 BMW M2 CS around a circuit in Germany, we can’t think of any other current BMW model, either standard or from its M performance car division, that delivers quite the same combination of performance, balance and sheer attitude as this.

Australians can reserve a Tesla Roadster for $66,000 – but delivery timing remains a mystery

Australian buyers can reserve Tesla's upcoming Roadster for the eye-watering sum of $66,000 – and that's just to secure a place in the queue. The special-edition launch models command a whopping $326,000 plus on-road costs – despite local pricing, specifications and delivery timing remaining unknown.

2021 Volkswagen Arteon R and wagon revealed

Volkswagen has unveiled the 2021 Arteon line-up, showing off a sleek new wagon body style, and R and plug-in hybrid options. The 2021 Arteon gets revised styling front and rear, with the new option of an illuminated grille. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, Volkswagen’s new MIB3 infotainment system and an 8.0-inch touchscreen all feature amid a redesigned dash and centre console.

Warning over iPhone app promoted for use during police traffic stops

Local authorities and legal experts are warning Australian motorists about the use of an Apple iPhone app that secretly records conversations with police and other individuals without their knowledge. 'Hey Siri, I'm being pulled over' is all you need to say for your iPhone to jump into action once the app is installed. When that happens, your iPhone will pause music, turn down the brightness and volume of the phone, and begin recording video and audio using the front camera.

Australian new-car emissions show lacklustre improvement despite electric car growth

Australians might like to think green and care about the environment, but when it comes to cars we are happy to buy big and thirsty SUVs and utes. The latest vehicle emissions figures, compiled annually by the National Transport Commission, showed there was only a 0.2 per cent reduction in pollution in 2019 versus 2018 – the smallest improvement since reporting began in 2002. The minor change comes despite an increase in sales of electric cars.

Toyota electric models revealed in patent filing

Two new electric vehicles from Toyota have surfaced overnight after patent sketches were filed in China. Based on the e-TNGA platform, the sketches from Toyota show what appears to be a large SUV – possibly a seven seat model – and a smaller SUV with a sloped back. The fronts of both vehicles share similar design language to Lexus models.

Hugh Jackman could play Enzo Ferrari in biopic – report

A new film about Enzo Ferrari – the founder of the famous Italian sportscar company and Formula One racing team – could have Hugh Jackman in the starring role, according to a report by Variety. The biopic, to be directed by Michael Mann, is based on the Brock Yates novel Enzo Ferrari: The Man, the Cars, the Races, the Machine, and was originally adapted for the screen by The Italian Job screenwriter Troy Kennedy Martin.

Video: 2020 Isuzu MU-X towing test review

The Isuzu MU-X is due to be replaced next year but one of the most common questions we have regarding the current model, is how does it perform when towing? Trent hooks up a weighty trailer to find out!

2021 Kia Carnival revealed ahead of Australian launch

The first official images of the new 2021 Kia Carnival have been released today. Australian timing is still to be announced, but with a Korean-market launch due in the third quarter of 2020, a local debut could occur towards the end of the year or early in 2021. Kia has dubbed the new Carnival a 'Grand Utility Vehicle' (this writer may now refer to it as 'the guv'), likely as a nod to its more premium styling and commanding shape.

Project Cars: 1990 Mercedes-Benz W201 190E 2.0 Sportline – Update

Making the decision to buy a classic car, even a relatively modern one, is not without risk. Has the seller been honest? Has a pre-purchase inspection missed a major component? It’s easy to look and knock and touch and feel what is clear and presented, but you can’t peer into the gearbox or take the head off to really understand what lies beneath. Well, not on my budget you can’t.

Ford F-150 Raptor and Jeep Wrangler deployed to rescue sinking boat

The Ford F-150 Raptor and the Jeep Wrangler have had their off-road credentials put to the test during a recent incident in the United States, where the two cars were used to attempt to save a sinking boat. The failed rescue occurred in Cedar Lake, Indiana, after a family's wake boat, worth a reported US$300,000, began sinking for reasons unknown.

Apple Maps adds electric car charging routes

The latest version of Apple's iOS operating system will offer electric vehicle owners the ability to plan their route based on charger locations. Apple says the new feature aims to eliminate range anxiety, ensuring the car can make it to the next electric vehicle charging station, and take into account road elevation, weather, and other elements that sap power.

2021 Volkswagen Golf adopts conventional automatic, DSG for performance models

Regular versions of the 2021 Volkswagen Mk8 Golf will eschew dual-clutch gearboxes in favour of conventional automatic transmissions. The switch only applies to regular versions of the 2021 Volkswagen Mk8 Golf powered by a 1.4-litre 110kW petrol engine with an automatic, the same combination found in the Skoda Karoq. The 2021 Volkswagen Mk8 Golf R, GTI, and Alltrack models will still use dual-clutch automatic transmissions (known as DSG in Volkswagen parlance).

China may ease green vehicle targets for 2020

The Chinese government is considering a temporary relaxation of its electric vehicle manufacturing targets to help the car industry there recover following the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report. All manufacturers that produce cars in China must adhere to strict new energy vehicle (NEV) targets that involve building electric, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell cars.

2021 Land Rover Defender 110 gets roof tent option

Italian car roof tent specialist Autohome has developed a two-person tent for Land Rover’s new Defender 110 off-roader. The officially-endorsed tent will be sold by both Land Rover and Autohome. Autohome prices the tent at €3760 ($AUD6120), which is enough for a fortnight in a five-star hotel. Stowed, the tent measures 33cm tall, growing to 150cm when opened with the help of two gas struts. Its footprint is 130cm by 230cm, which Autohome says is adequate for two adults.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq spied

New spy photos have emerged of the face-lifted 2021 Skoda Kodiaq SUV in both regular and sporty RS trim ahead of an expected unveiling later this year. No significant changes appear to have been made to the regular Kodiaq, however our photographers claim to have found a note stating the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine will be upgraded to from 141kW to 147kW.

2020 Nissan Qashqai Ti review

Editor's note on photography: It was a very wet week when we had the 2020 Nissan Qashqai on test. Such is the nature of road testing. The Nissan Qashqai compact SUV has come in for another update – the second significant running change since 2017, after this generation went on sale in 2014. It’s designed to breathe new life into the Nissan Qashqai until the next model arrives in a couple of years.

2021 Toyota Yaris: Australia’s cheapest car with centre airbag, hybrid option

The 2021 Toyota Yaris will be the cheapest car on sale in Australia with a centre airbag between the two front seats – and the option of hybrid power – as advanced safety trickles down to one of the most affordable models on the market. At the moment, the only new car on sale in Australia with a centre airbag is the $200,000 Audi A8 limousine, although others will soon follow.

Video: 2021 Mazda BT-50 walkaround review

The 2020 / 2021 Mazda BT-50 has arrived and is now sharing mechanical hardware with the new 2020 Isuzu D-Max. This includes a 3-litre 4JJ1 turbo-diesel engine with 140kW (188HP) and 450Nm. If you think the BT-50 looks like some of the other Mazda range, it should as the same designer who penned the CX-9 and Mazda 2 is responsible for the look of the new ute.

2020 Audi R8 price and specs

Audi Australia has announced pricing and specification for its R8 supercar, due back in local showrooms in July 2020. The face-lifted R8 returns following an absence from the Australian market. CarAdvice understands this to be due to delays in completing emissions and homologation processes in Europe, with Audi giving priority to its higher-selling vehicles. The 2020 Audi R8 is available in four trims with coupe or convertible body style and rear- or all-wheel drive options.

First ever HDT Holden Monaro racing car to go under the hammer

The first Holden factory-backed racing car ever created, a 1969 Holden HT Monaro built by motorsport legend Harry Firth, is expected to sell at auction later this week for more than $1 million. Offered by Lloyd's Auctions, the iconic #57D Monaro racing car is credited as being the car that launched the Holden Dealer Team.

2021 Jaguar I-Pace price and specs

Prices and specifications for the 2021 Jaguar I-Pace range have been unveiled, with the new model year promising updates to the electric SUV's infotainment system, charging capabilities, driver technology and design options. Still available in three equipment grades – the S, SE and HSE – the updates have heralded price hikes across the I-Pace range and each variant has risen by between $4760 and $6060 plus on-road costs.

Apple iPhone Digital Key will soon be able to unlock your car

Apple iPhone users will soon be able to lock, unlock and start their car using the smartphone’s near-field sensor technology and a new app called Digital Key. The tech giant announced overnight that its latest devices with the near-field sensor technology will be able to lock and unlock certain BMW cars by ‘tapping’ or positioning their phone near the front door handles. Once inside the car, the same technology will start the car at the press of a button.

Exclusive: 2021 Toyota HiLux, every detail listed in leaked document

The 2021 Toyota HiLux will have sweeping changes that are more than skin deep when it arrives in Australian showrooms in August. A confidential dealer bulletin has outlined in detail all the changes coming to the biggest update to the Toyota HiLux since this generation went on sale in 2015.

2021 MG E-Motion: electric coupe rendered from patent filings

Earlier this month patent filings of a new MG sports car emerged online, showing the fully-electric coupe known as the E-Motion taking shape. CarAdvice can give our readers an exclusive look at renders based on those patent drawings, the result of which is a sleek and attractive MG sports car. Best known for producing British sports cars since 1924 – but under Chinese ownership since 2005 – the reborn MG brand has been offering small cars and SUVs in Australia since 2016.

2019-2020 Porsche Cayenne recalled for fire hazard

Porsche Australia has issued a recall of 244 examples of its 2019-2020 Cayenne SUV due to a potential fire risk. The recall includes model-year 2019-2020 Cayenne Turbo (9YA) and 2020 Cayenne Turbo e-Hybrid (9YA), Cayenne Turbo Coupe and Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid Coupe models (9YB). Affected vehicles were sold between 29 November 2017 and 5 December 2019.

BMW invests in Prometheus Fuels, carbon-neutral petrol

German carmaker BMW and its sister brand Mini have invested $USD12.5 million into a US company that produces synthetic petrol and diesel made via carbon capturing. The venture capital arm of BMW and Mini, called BMW i Ventures, invested in a start-up called Prometheus Fuels, which claims it will be selling carbon-neutral fuel by the end of this year. While the technology to convert carbon emissions back into fuel was already available, the costs to do so were prohibitively expensive.

2020 Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R review

Applying constant tweaks and updates seems to be the current trend for ute manufacturers in Australia, with a seemingly endless stream of new models and technologies finding their way into this ever-popular segment. Along with the more expensive GSR, the value-focussed Mitsubishi Triton can now be had in a new mid-range GLX-R flavour.

Tesla Model Y seven-seater coming this year, Elon Musk confirms

The seven-seat version of Tesla's new compact SUV, the Model Y, will commence delivery in the United States later this year, the company's CEO Elon Musk has confirmed on Twitter. The Tesla Model Y, which is not yet available in Australia, made its global debut in March 2019 – with US deliveries of the five-seat models starting six months ahead of schedule in March 2020.

Ford Mustang Mach-E electric car aims to solve range anxiety

Ford has announced its electric Mustang Mach-E SUV will get ‘intelligent range’ technology – a feature the brand says will improve the accuracy of distance-to-empty calculations. The technology is designed to tackle range anxiety “about when and where customers can recharge” by being able to "accurately estimate how much range the all-electric SUV has (remaining)”.

Video: McLaren Senna LM turns up in New Zealand

A McLaren Senna LM has emerged in New Zealand – the birthplace of company founder Bruce McLaren – despite never having been officially released by the British supercar manufacturer. Revealed on the YouTube channel of Giltrap Group, one of the New Zealand's most prominent luxury vehicle importers, the ultra rare McLaren Senna LM is shown in the greatest detail seen so far. The rarity and legitimacy of the car is not known. McLaren has not released any official information on the Senna LM.

Kangaroos the biggest danger in animal crashes

Kangaroos are involved in eight out of 10 car crashes with animals, new figures show. And the data has prompted experts to renew their warnings as Australians prepare to holiday at home: don’t swerve to avoid an animal. “You've got a fraction of a second to make a decision, and by that stage it's probably too late any way,” says Russell White, from the Australian Road Safety Foundation.

Mercedes-Benz and BMW end autonomous driving partnership

Rival German car makers Mercedes-Benz and BMW have paused their partnership to jointly-develop autonomous driving technology. The alliance – announced in 2019 – plotted to develop ‘next-generation’ autonomous driving (up to 'fully-autonomous' Level 4), with the first cars fitted with the technology slated for launch in 2024. However, citing exceeding costs and adverse economic conditions, the brands announced they would pause their partnership indefinitely.

Toyota prices to rise, hybrids hardest hit

Toyota is poised to increase prices by up to $1300 on 16 of its most popular models in the wake of a weakening exchange rate with the Japanese Yen – and hybrid cars are hardest hit. However buyers can beat the 1 July price rises if they sign a deal before the end of June 30 and lock in the current RRP.

Nissan Navara Warrior back in production

The Nissan Navara Warrior is back in production after a two-and-a-half month pause due to the coronavirus crisis, which delayed arrivals of donor vehicles from the Thailand factory. After preparing the Melbourne assembly line last week with a dozen or so examples, production of the Nissan Navara Warrior is due to ramp up from today, with shipments to dealers to recommence from next week.

2021 Ford F-150 teased ahead of unveiling later this week

The 2021 Ford F-150 will be unveiled later this week and the company has released a teaser image via Twitter which shows the updated model will have a bold new light signature, a bulging bonnet and a redesigned grille. The daytime running lights appear to extend beyond the main beams and down into lamps in the front bumper.

Australian-made Bolwell Nagari could get new Corvette V8

The upcoming Bolwell Nagari 500 – on display at the 2019 Motorclassica show in Melbourne – could be fitted with the new Corvette V8 if the Chevrolet is sold locally. Campbell Bolwell, founder of the Australian sports car company Bolwell, told CarAdvice development on the new Nagari 500 is progressing well, but the car was currently "too fast".

2020 MG HS Excite review

The 2020 MG HS Excite is now a very interesting proposition in a crowded medium-SUV segment. As we found at launch, it’s an SUV that is built to a quality beyond what the price might indicate, and since then we’ve been looking forward to spending some time with it in the CarAdvice garage.

Revisit: 2020 Land Rover Defender video review

The time has come: CarAdvice has been granted special permission to drive the all-new 2020 Land Rover Defender. It’s not just a quick fang around a manicured block, either. We’re sliding into the next generation of this iconic nameplate in the wild, northern reaches of Namibia.

Australia's most affordable hybrid and electric cars

The list of electric car and hybrid car options in Australia expands with every passing year, but their often prohibitive cost – particularly in the case of EVs – remains a major barrier to their uptake.

The unlikely cars reversing the COVID-19 sales slide

As Australia braces for a recession, some surprising new cars have bucked the sharp downward sales trend. New-car sales fell by 35.3 per cent in May compared to the same month the previous year, following a shocker in April (down 48.5 per cent). Both represented the biggest declines in at least 30 years. While sales of utes and four-wheel-drives have picked up in the lead-up to June 30 and as many motorists plan to holiday at home, there are some niche models that have also performed well.

Lyft ride-sharing company to go all-electric by 2030

US ride-sharing and rental car company Lyft will convert its entire fleet to electric vehicles by 2030, according to overseas reports. The company says it will “aggressively promote” and “help drivers access incentive funds” for electric vehicles, but will not provide “direct financial support”, a report by the Reuters news agency says. As of today, electric vehicles comprise less than one per cent of Lyft’s fleet. The company said it had 2 million drivers in its Q3 report in 2019.

France develops vehicle emissions fraud agency

The French government has developed a new transport agency to detect emissions tampering in vehicles, according to a new report. The agency – known as the Surveillance Service for the Vehicle and Motor Market (SSMVM) – comes as the result of a European Union directive issued following the Volkswagen Group’s emission scandal also known as ‘dieselgate’.

2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport review: P250 R-Dynamic SE

Land Rover has a funny knack of releasing hugely popular models when it needs to most. When the spreadsheet doesn’t seem to read so well, the engineering and design teams pull out successful models like the original Discovery and Discovery 3. Another two good examples are the platform-sharing Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Goodwood Festival of Speed cancelled for 2020

The Goodwood Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival are cancelled for 2020 due to the coronavirus crisis, after initially being postponed. Officials said the events were not feasible with social distancing requirements still in place within the UK.

Struggle street: the cars yet to pass 25 sales so far this year

The new-car market has been competitive and cutthroat for a while, but the first half of 2020 increased the pressure to perform. With production delays due to coronavirus, a raft of exciting new models on the horizon, electric and hybrid cars upping their game and buyers facing financial limitations, every new vehicle on the market had to fight harder than ever to succeed.

Video: Ferrari V6 hybrid spied testing, is it the new Dino?

A Ferrari test mule fitted with what is believed to be a hybrid V6 has been caught on camera driving around Maranello, Italy. The Ferrari 488 was being used as a platform to test the new hybrid engine near Ferrari headquarters, complete with mysterious wires and stickers warning of the battery packs fitted, and was caught on camera by the YouTube channel Varryx.

Australia lumped with dirty cars and cargo ships

A reformed high-flying energy executive who made millions selling coal and gas has taken aim at the Australian government's inaction on new-car emissions standards, according to The Age and Sydney Morning Herald. Trevor St Baker, the founder of electricity company ERM Energy and board member of the Energy Policy Institute of Australia, said the country needs stricter emissions targets for motor vehicles, or Australia risks being left behind.

Around the tracks: A BMW 4 Series ute, a creepy surveillance van for sale anda Supra crash

When we’re not creating it ourselves, the CarAdvice team spends a lot of time finding and consuming motoring content from all over the world. Here’s a handful of the photos, articles, videos or social media posts that most caught our eye last week. Some of them are brand new, others have been online for a while. Enjoy them – just not too much, okay? How do you make a controversial design even more divisive? Turn it into a ute, of course.

The cars we wish were sold in Australia in 2020

We don't want to sound like we're complaining, but sometimes being a small, far-flung, right-hand-drive country has its downsides. While being an Australian certainly has some perks (we'd list them but we just keep coming back to Tim Tams, sprinklers slung over Hills Hoists in summer, and outstanding '80s cricket moustaches), it also means we miss out on a bunch of overseas car brands and models we'd rather like to take for a spin.

2020 Nissan Navara ST dual-cab review

What a difference a few little cosmetic enhancements can make. The rather earnest Nissan Navara ST has always struck the right balance of equipment and capability for the price, but couldn’t ever match the glitzier ST-X on aesthetic appeal.

Audi Q7 and Q8 recalled due to transmission leak

Audi Australia has issued a recall of seven examples of its brand-new 2020-2021 Q7 (shown above) and 2019-2021 Q8 SUVs due to a transmission leak. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says an oil pipe fitted to the transmission may have been welded incorrectly, which can result in a leak. A similar recall was announced two weeks ago for the Volkswagen Touareg.

Rental cars hit the brakes during coronavirus crisis

A 40 per cent decline in rental car sales has contributed to dwindling overall vehicle sales in Australia, as rental companies slow the expansion of their fleets and sell off their vehicles amid a sharp drop in demand from tourists and business travellers.

2021 Jeep Gladiator to start from $65,000 with new entry model

Jeep has slashed $10,000 off the starting price of the Gladiator ute range, just weeks after the model went on sale in Australia. Jeep will add a new ‘Sport S’ model to the Australian Gladiator line-up, which will lower the starting price to about $65,000 plus on-road costs. The new base model will arrive in Australia by the end of 2020, and undercut the existing range by around $10,000. Australian specifications for the Gladiator Sport S are yet to be released by Jeep Australia.

Diesel dead for Jeep Gladiator

The Jeep Gladiator ute will only have V6 petrol power for the foreseeable future, after executives ruled out the option of a diesel. Even though diesel is the most popular option for pick-ups sold in Australia, Jeep has officially killed hopes of a diesel-powered Gladiator coming to Australia, citing a lack of availability in right-hand drive.

Australian Porsche 911 buyers can now watch their car be built online

Australian buyers of Porsche’s 992 generation 911 sports car now have the option to watch their car be built at the brand’s Zuffenhausen plant in Germany. Porsche’s ‘Track Your Dream’ service is available to buyers who specify their own 911, giving them access to two still images taken at different stages of the production line. The brand says it is planning to add an additional two cameras at other locations in the facility.

2020 Jeep Gladiator pricing and specs

Jeep has returned to the Australian ute market, with the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. It launches in Australia with only high-specification models selected from the North American range: Overland ($75,450 plus on-road costs) and Rubicon ($76,450 plus on-road costs). Jeep Australia will also release a Gladiator First Edition, which is effectively an Overland and Rubicon rolled together with all of the option boxes ticked, and is $86,450 plus on-road costs.

Fiat-Chrysler-Jeep and Peugeot-Citroen-Opel merger under threat

A merger between the Fiat-Chrysler-Jeep brands and Peugeot-Citroen-Opel group may be under threat after the two conglomerates allegedly failed to respond to concerns from the European Union, according to a report from the Financial Times. The European Union's executive arm, the European Commission (EC), has launched a four-month antitrust investigation into the proposed merger of the two carmakers after they failed to meet a deadline last week to address initial concerns put forward by the EC.

2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon review

It’s been a long time between drinks for Australians wanting a Jeep 4x4 ute, but the wait is finally over. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator has arrived, and we have a Punk’n Orange Rubicon specification to sample.

2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon review: Australian launch

It’s been a long time between drinks for Australians wanting a Jeep 4x4 ute, but the wait is finally over. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator has arrived, and we have a Punk’n Orange Rubicon specification to sample. When a new model lands in Australia, vehicle manufacturers will normally whisk motoring journos away somewhere for a couple of days with a curated drive program and product presentation on the agenda.

Ford discovers early GT40 sketches

Archivists searching through Ford's records have found very early designs of what later became the Ford GT40. The Ford Performance Twitter account tweeted about the discovery, exactly 57 years after the sketches were created. Ford's archivists were looking through the company's styling negatives collection when they unearthed the designs. They are thought to be some of the earliest sketches of the Ford GT40 sports car.

2021 Skoda Karoq spy photos

Skoda’s updated Karoq SUV has been spotted testing ahead of a slated 2021 reveal, however new images do not show much of what’s been changed. While not clear in the spy photos, the 2021 Skoda Karoq is expected to adopt a new grille design, with revised front and rear bumpers, and updated graphics for the head and tail lights. The model should also pick up Skoda’s newest infotainment system and engine upgrades to reduce CO2 emissions – however the engine upgrade may not make it to Australia.

2020 Skoda Karoq review: 110TSI and 140TSI SportLine

It’s become a well-worn cliché, ‘Simply Clever’, as it relates to vehicles made by the Czech brand Skoda. But clichés are clichés for a reason – because they are true. And in the case of the relaunched and expanded Skoda Karoq line-up, that simple truth remains.

New Bugatti watch costs more than a house

The Buggati Chiron is the world’s fastest production car by a comfortable margin – with a top speed of 490km/h – or 304mph in the old money, and a price tag of $USD3.5 million not including taxes. Now there’s a watch named after it with an equally astronomical price. The watch is called a Twin Turbo Furious 300+ (a reference to the 300mph target) and only three will be made.

BMW design boss says 4 Series grille won't be rolled out across the range

The oversized kidney grille on BMW's new-generation 4 Series has been a talking point since its debut, but the design boss has assured its detractors it won't be making it onto other models in the range. In a new interview with BMW Blog, BMW's Head of Design, Domagoj Dukec, revealed the bold aesthetic addition was specifically created for the 4 Series and did not mark an across-the-board image overhaul for the German brand.

2020 EOFY car sales: BMW offers

June always marks a good time to take the plunge and buy that new car you've been lusting for. BMW has two separate offers on five of its popular models, each cut with the same format. The first component is drive-away pricing, which is applicable to cash or non-BMW financed deals. This usually means no extras or additions, just the base model car at a fixed price point.

2020 Nissan Juke review

It’s smarter, more mature, bigger and better equipped than the old model. It’s also a hell of a lot better, too.

2020 Nissan Juke review

At the risk of giving you a reason not to read the rest of this review, I’ll give you the vital info straight up on the new 2020 Nissan Juke. It’s smarter, more mature, bigger and better equipped than the old model. It’s also a hell of a lot better, too. There, you can go straight to the comments section below now. There’s still some of the story left to tell, though.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4 models revealed early in leaked pictures

Volkswagen's 2021 ID.4 X and ID.4 Crozz electric SUVs have been revealed early thanks to leaked official photos shared with a regulatory body in China. The ID.4 will be Volkswagen's first all-electric SUV and is scheduled to launch in China, Europe and the United States sometime in 2020, although Volkswagen is yet to confirm an official date (it was originally scheduled to debut at the cancelled New York Motor Show in April).

2021 Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake wagon revealed in Chinese press

Pictures of the 2021 VW Arteon Shooting Brake wagon have surfaced ahead of the car's official debut, revealing a practical and stylish family wagon. According to CarScoops, Chinese website Autohome published the photos of the wagon, badged in China as the CC. With all-wheel drive, black plastic cladding around the wheel arches, and a slightly raised body, the Arteon wagon looks to be designed for owners who require more space and a degree of off-road practicality.

2021 Kia Carnival teased

A revealing new sketch of the next-generation 2021 Kia Carnival has been handed down today, offering a clear look at what's to come. Following in the tracks of the current model, this new model will again bless the Carnival badge with the sort of powerful proportions that get dads reconsidering the notion that they'd never be seen driving a people mover.

ANCAP Rescue: the new phone app that could save your life

A database of 500 new and used cars – with instructions on how to cut them open after a crash – is now only a fingertip away for emergency services and could save lives by saving valuable seconds. ANCAP Rescue is a new app produced by Australia’s crash test authority – the Australasian New Car Assessment Program – and is available free of charge to fire and rescue crews who need to find the fastest way to safely cut open a vehicle after a major incident.

10 of the greatest station wagons ever

It’s no secret SUVs of all shapes and sizes have become the go-to vehicles for families, continuing to sell in numbers that makers of large, four-door sedans can only dream about now. The SUV boom has also claimed another automotive scalp, consigning the once-loved and humble station wagon to niche status. Yes, there are still some options out there for the wagon-istas among us, but increasingly brands are declining to import station wagon variants available elsewhere in the world.

2020 Range Rover Fifty celebrates 50th Anniversary, 37 allocated for Australia

Range Rover is celebrating the model’s golden jubilee milestone with the release of a limited-edition new model: the Range Rover Fifty Edition. The iconic British four-wheel drive has been on and off the roads now for a half century, with the first model released on 17 June 1970. Back then it was available in a two-door body only, but launched with a permanent dual-range four-wheel drive system, four-wheel disc brakes and even a 3500kg tow rating.

2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4Matic+ revealed, Australian line-up confirmed

Mercedes-AMG has announced specifications for its revised 2021 E63 S sedan and wagon, with the sedan set for Australian showrooms towards the end of this year. As with the pre-face-lifted model, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 will be offered exclusively in S trim with only the sedan body for the Australian market. Power remains unchanged at 450kW/850Nm from the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, sent through a nine-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system.

2020 BMW M850i Gran Coupe xDrive review

The return of BMW’s 8 Series should have been seen as cause for celebration – a triumphant reimagining of the short-lived but fabled ‘8’ badge that adorned a series of coupes in the 1990s. That E31-generation 8 Series remains an icon despite its short shelf life, not least of all for the V12 engine crammed into flagship 850 variants.

Mercedes-AMG's Formula 1 e-Turbo technology to be used in road cars

German performance car maker Mercedes-AMG has revealed new e-Turbo technology that was first developed for F1 race cars will soon be used in their road-going models. The e-Turbo combines elements of electric turbocharging – like what is seen on the brand’s CLS53 and E53 – and conventional exhaust-driven turbocharging.

How Australia shaped the 2021 Mazda BT-50

Mazda Australia played a pivotal role in the new generation BT-50 ute, after a partnership that spanned almost half a century ended with Ford. Development of the 2021 Mazda BT-50 started five years ago, and Australia was the driving force. The Mazda BT-50 is not a global model for the Japanese brand, however it is critical for Australia. Indeed, some rural and regional dealers rely on the Mazda BT-50 for their survival.

2021 Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50: first utes with centre airbags

The 2021 Isuzu D-Max and 2021 Mazda BT-50 twins will have a centre airbag between the two front seats – making them among the first vehicles on sale in Australia with this advanced safety feature. Until now, a centre airbag has only been available in Australia on a $200,000 Audi A8 limousine (pictured below). The Isuzu and Mazda will be the first utes to go on sale in Australia with the world-class feature, which helps meet more stringent requirements for five-star safety ratings.

Video: 2021 Mazda BT-50 walkaround review

The 2020 / 2021 Mazda BT-50 has arrived and is now sharing mechanical hardware with the new 2020 Isuzu D-Max. This includes a 3-litre 4JJ1 turbo-diesel engine with 140kW (188HP) and 450Nm. If you think the BT-50 looks like some of the other Mazda range, it should as the same designer who penned the CX-9 and Mazda 2 is responsible for the look of the new ute.

2021 BMW M5 revealed, Australian launch due in October

BMW has launched the facelifted 2021 BMW M5 and M5 Competition with a sharper design and upgraded suspension. Australian buyers will only have access to the higher-spec 2021 BMW M5 Competition, due to arrive in October, with the standard M5 to be dropped from the local line-up.

MG HS Essence flagship joins Australian range

CarAdvice testing of the 2020 MG HS has revealed it is undoubtedly the most proficient new vehicle to come from the revitalised MG Motor Company. With a five-star ANCAP rating and above average driving dynamics, the HS is well-positioned to make some headway in the incredibly competitive medium SUV segment. The only question - both at launch and since – is related to the model range.

If I ran Mazda… Everything would be an MX-5, sort of

"If I ran the company..." The CarAdvice team play 'fantasy football' with the automotive industry and take turns in the top seat of the big brands. What would we do if we ran the show? This time, Kez heads up Japanese favourite, Mazda. Mazda holds the honour of reporting massive sales success in Australia, but elsewhere in the world, the brand sits much lower on sales tables.

2021 Mazda BT-50 unveiled, in showrooms this year

The 2021 Mazda BT-50 ute has been unveiled ahead of its arrival in Australian showrooms before the end of this year. The firstly completely new model in 10 years marks the end of a 48-year partnership with Ford and commences a new journey with Isuzu. As CarAdvice has reported earlier, the 2021 Mazda BT-50 is based on the yet-to-be-released 2021 Isuzu D-Max, after Ford and Mazda decided to go separate ways.

Ford Transit van gets Ranger Raptor grille but not the performance

Ford of Europe has brought some Ranger Raptor design flare to the front end of a new series of Transit vans – but, unfortunately, these models are unlikely for Australia even though they are made in same factory in Turkey where we source our vehicles. The new "lifestyle" versions of Ford's delivery van are the Transit Custom Active, Transit Custom Trail and Transit Trail.

Tesla Roadster versus Porsche Taycan in cyberspace

The Porsche Taycan has only just arrived in Australia and the second-generation Tesla Roadster is yet to even commence production, but a new rendering has allowed us to see what the two all-electric sports cars look like side-by-side. The image, created by designer Alborz Heydaryan and originally published by Motor1, shows how the direct competitors shape up according to their official dimensions – with the Taycan the far larger of the pair. No filters.

2020 Tesla Model S update extends certified range to 647 kilometres

The 2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus has now been certified with a driving range of 647 kilometres, up from 629 kilometres. The additional eighteen kilometres might not sound like much, but that extra range represents an important milestone for the electric-car maker – translating to more than 400 miles of range. It makes it the first electric vehicle in the US to have achieved that milestone.

Mahindra to unload SsangYong – report

Indian car maker Mahindra is looking to unload its 75 per cent share of SsangYong – South Korea’s fourth-largest vehicle producer – amid declining profits during the global coronavirus pandemic. “SsangYong needs a new investor. We are working with the company to see if we can secure investment,” Mahindra’s managing director Pawan Kumar Goenka told Automotive News Europe.

Genesis G70 wagon spy photos

A wagon version of the new Genesis G70 has been caught on camera during testing, with the model a possible addition to the Australian line-up. The G70 wagon – posted by AutoSpy – appears to have the same twin horizontal headlight and tail-light theme likely for the upcoming G70 facelift. The G70 is currently only offered in a sedan body, with the face-lifted model expected in Australian showrooms late this year or early 2021.

Nissan Australia wants more electric cars

Nissan, one of the pioneers of the electric vehicle segment in Australia, is planning to roll out more battery-powered cars in the coming years. While Nissan recently introduced its second generation Leaf hatchback, it is already working on other electric models to sell alongside it. “We’re busily working with the global team on how we will address electrification,” Nissan Australia boss Stephen Lester told CarAdvice. “And that’s not just limited to Leaf.”

2021 Citroen C4 revealed, electric e-C4 included

The new 2021 Citroen C4 has now properly stepped over into SUV territory, leaving behind two generations of the badge's history as a conventional hatch offering. In its new third-generation form, the C4 takes the place of the high-riding DS4 that no longer exists as a direct member of the Citroen brand line, along with the C4 Cactus – which is not expected to be resurrected.

2020 Toyota HiLux Workmate review: 4x2 petrol auto

You’re looking at the reason the Toyota HiLux is Australia’s most popular vehicle. Not because of flash 4x4 models like the Rugged X and SR5, but because of humble base models like this 2020 Toyota HiLux Workmate 4x2 single-cab.

Video: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 revealed

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 has been unveiled in the US, showcasing a track-focused, limited-edition pony car that cherry-picks from its stablemates. Reading more like a Greatest Hits album, the Mach 1 offers identical performance to the Bullitt, with a 5.0-litre V8 producing 357kW, but using the air intake and 6-speed transmission from the Shelby GT350, and the gear knob from the Bullitt. Many components have also come from the Shelby GT500.

Coming soon: Mini’s ‘massive’ SUV

British carmaker Mini is preparing to build its biggest vehicle yet – a mid-size SUV with similar proportions to a BMW X3 – according to overseas reports. The new model – speculated to revive the Traveller name – would assume flagship status for the brand, slotting in above the Countryman city SUV in both price and size, according to UK publication AutoCar.

Nissan Australia confident 400Z will build on Zed-car legacy

Nissan Australia says it will request as many examples of the 400Z sports car as it can get its hands on, because it believes the new model will be more popular than ever. While the arrival timing and pricing for the Nissan 400Z are yet to be announced, there is widespread speculation it will be in showrooms next year with turbocharged V6 power, which is likely to make it an instant smash hit among performance enthusiasts and the drifting community alike.

Lamborghini is done with motor shows – report

Italian supercar maker Lamborghini says it will no longer participate in large international motor shows, according to a new report. Speaking to AutoCar UK, Lamborghini’s chief marketing and communications officer Katia Bassi said the brand would instead focus on bespoke events that appeal directly to customers.

Nissan X-Trail through the ages: 2021, back to 2001

Next year, when the new-generation 2021 Nissan X-Trail arrives in Australia, it will have been 20 years since the badge first appeared here. The line kicked off with the 'T30' X-Trail in 2001, and it was this model that would eventually give fans – because it did indeed have fans – the ammunition to suggest today's X-Trail is not a true X-Trail.

2021 BMW M5 facelift leaked online

The 2021 BMW M5 facelift has been leaked online, a day before the official unveiling. BMW's iconic performance sedan misses out on the oversized 'coffin-shaped' kidney grilles, as seen on the recent release of the 2021 BMW 4 Series Coupé and undisguised BMW M4 spy photo. The facelifted BMW M5 – referred to as the LCI in BMW parlance – appears to be shown in Imola Red and features the wider, sleeker headlights seen on the recent 5 Series model line-up unveiling.

2021 Lexus IS revealed, Australian launch due late 2020

The covers have come off a refreshed 2021 Lexus IS sedan this morning, making official the images that leaked online this week. Debuting a sharper and more resolved take on the 'L-Finesse' styling themes of its predecessor, the new IS sedan looks set to bring a tougher and more imposing image on the road.

Project cars: 2005 Mazda MX-5 SE

Since starting at CarAdvice, I figured it would be wise to brush up on my driving skills. Naturally, we do a lot of driving, mainly on public roads. Reasonably frequently however, we’re out on the track, or at an event, driving cars well beyond our limits, and sometimes the vehicle’s too, in safe and controlled environments.

Countdown to Holden closure: email leaks and the plane trip from Detroit

EXCLUSIVE The bombshell announcement about the closure of the Holden brand narrowly avoided being broken weeks earlier than planned – after claims that executives openly drafted confidential emails while sitting in business class on a flight home from Detroit.

Ford Ranger gets F-150 Raptor treatment

Why on earth didn’t Ford think of this genius idea? The call for a right-hand-drive Ford F-150 Raptor has finally been answered – sort of – thanks to a group of enthusiasts who have grafted look-a-like kits onto Ford Ranger utes. TTN Hypersport in Thailand has come up with the kits using a combination of fibreglass and polycarbonate bolt-on bodywork to transform humble Ford Ranger pick-ups into F-150 Raptor monster trucks.

You call that a ute? Meet the supercharged Chevrolet Goliath 6x6

Just when you thought the Chevrolet Silverado Goliath 6x6 couldn’t get any crazier, US tuning firm Hennessey has fitted a supercharger to boost the V8 to a mind-boggling 800 horsepower. The custom-built, road-legal six-wheel-drive monster truck costs in excess of $USD400,000 in North America, equivalent to about $AUD600,000 based on today’s exchange rates. Customers start with the ‘regular’ $USD375,000 version and then add a $USD30,000 supercharger kit and some other toys.

Hyundai and Kia take a large slice of the electric-car market

Hyundai and Kia are quickly becoming a global leader in electric vehicles, according to their slice of the new-car market. New figures show the jointly-owned brands now have a greater share of the global electric car market than they do for vehicles powered by petrol or diesel.

Next Lotus petrol sports car will be its last – report

British sports car maker Lotus will introduce one more petrol-powered model in 2022 before transitioning its entire stable to full-electric powertrains, according to a report out of the UK. The yet-unnamed sports car would occupy a more premium segment than usual for Lotus, surpassing the brand’s regular £45,000-£85,000 (AU$82,500-$156,000) price bracket, according to UK publication AutoExpress.

Government injects $3.5 million in technology for cheaper electric car charging

Australian electric car charging provider Jet Charge has received an injection of $3.5 million in federal government funding to develop new technology that will eventually reduce – and ultimately eliminate – the cost of charging an electric car at home.

2020 Suzuki S-Cross Turbo Prestige review

If the automotive industry were a costume party, models like the Suzuki S-Cross would turn up wearing nothing but jeans, a T-shirt, and maybe a silly hat in a half-hearted nod to the theme. But though they might not boast as much aesthetic flair as pricier European cars, or as much standard equipment as some of their stablemates, entry-level offerings like the S-Cross are often buyers’ bread and butter – affordable, reasonably well-equipped ways to get from A to B.

2021 Nissan X-Trail revealed

The new-generation 2021 Nissan X-Trail has been unveiled this week, in the form of the American-market Rogue SUV. As with the current model, the global X-Trail SUV is sold in the US as the Rogue, but the two vehicles are largely identical beyond market-specific equipment and trim. In its new form, the X-Trail adopts a bulkier, "commanding" design, with a wider and more upright appearance in place of the outgoing model's (comparatively) more athletic look.

H2X: The bold plan to build hydrogen vehicles in Australia

A group of Australian automotive executives is working on a plan to assemble hydrogen vehicles locally – with key components to be sourced from Europe and the Americas. Start-up manufacturer H2X Australia has bold plans to begin assembling hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for the commercial industry and mining sectors, before potentially moving on to taxis, vans and passenger cars. If successful, the proposal is to assemble the vehicles in Port Kembla, south of Sydney.

Daniel Ricciardo discusses his future, more events stripped from F1 calendar

Australian F1 star Daniel Ricciardo has spoken about his future in the sport, following news that another three events have been removed from the 2020 calendar. Prior to his signing with McLaren for the 2021 season, Ricciardo spoke with UK publication AutoCar about his future in Formula One and how he still believes he can finish on top.

2021 Lexus IS revealed in leaked images

The new-look 2021 Lexus IS has been revealed just hours ahead of its official unveiling, thanks to a set of leaked images that have appeared on Instagram and YouTube. The images, although low-quality (particularly the YouTube shots) offer a comprehensive look at what we'll see when the covers come off tomorrow morning. As expected, the mid-sized sedan has been given a major exterior makeover, with – it appears – not a single panel left untouched and with both ends dramatically redesigned.

New Mazda BT-50 teased, debut timing revealed – UPDATE: New image released

UPDATE: Mazda Australia has released a second teaser image of what is believed to be its brand new BT-50 ute, sharing a sneak peek at the car's updated grille and headlights. Two days ahead of its scheduled unveiling on June 17, 2020, Mazda's social media accounts shared an image of the car's facelifted front, featuring a chrome grille with horizontal bars (much like the one on the CX-8) and broad, angular headlights.

Jeep Australia steps in to help victims of domestic violence

Jeep dealerships across Australia have partnered with DV Safe Phone to help ensure victims of domestic violence have access to a mobile phone. DV Safe Phone (DV is police-speak for domestic violence) collects used mobile phones, donated by the public, then tests and repairs them before distributing them, along the Red Rose Foundation, to victims of domestic violence.

New evidence supports Carlos Ghosn's conspiracy claim – report

Emails dating back to February 2018 may have exposed moves by Nissan executives to dethrone the CEO of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, CEO Carlos Ghosn, to stop Nissan being merged with the conglomerate, according to news agency Bloomberg. The series of emails allegedly show senior Nissan executives plotting the removal of Ghosn, and has been corroborated by those with inside knowledge of the plot, the report claims.

Shock tactics: Graphic 1992 ad revived after rise in seatbelt-related deaths

Victoria's Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is reviving one of its most confronting road safety campaigns – a 1992 ad dubbed 'Bend your knee, Katie' – in an effort to combat a recent rise in seatbelt-related deaths in the state.

Million-dollar scrapyard: final resting place for supercars in Dubai

One of the world’s richest scrapyards is likely to expand after authorities in Dubai announced plans to step up efforts to clear the streets of abandoned luxury cars. According to Gulf News, approximately 2000 to 3000 cars are abandoned in Dubai each year. At the peak of the Global Financial Crisis a decade ago, a large number of exotic and expensive supercars and luxury vehicles were left abandoned because their owners could no longer afford the repayments.

This 1981 Toyota HiLux costs more than a new model

An immaculate 1981 Toyota HiLux is being advertised for an astronomical $USD50,000 – the equivalent of $AUD73,000 – in the US, in yet another example of classic Japanese cars starting to fetch big dollars. By comparison, the current 2020 Toyota HiLux range tops out at $62,990 drive-away for a Rugged X or Rogue edition. The 1981 Toyota HiLux Trekker is regarded as the “forerunner to the 4Runner” because its ute tub was converted to carry passengers, and fitted with seats and carpet lining.

Solar-powered Tesla Model 3 takes 10 days to recharge

A YouTube star has attempted to recharge a Tesla Model 3 electric car using only the power of the sun. The channel ItsYeBoi rigged up a trailer and fitted it with eight solar panels. Although the trailer was not properly attached to the Tesla Model 3 – the neck appeared to be resting on top of a spare tyre in the boot, as the car was driven slowly around a parking lot – the experiment aimed to find out if solar power could provide and endless source of energy to an electric car.

Jeep blocks Mahindra over copycat design

Jeep has won its bid for an order to block the sale of Mahindra off-road vehicles that were alleged to be copycat designs of its iconic Wrangler, the Bloomberg news agency has reported. The International Trade Commission ruled that the Mahindra Roxor – an off-road buggy that cannot be road registered in North America as it does not meet the latest approval standards – is a copy of the Jeep Wrangler and that it cannot be sold in the US.

Honda factory explosion, two injured – report

News agency Kyodo News is reporting an explosion at a Honda factory in Suzuka city in central Japan. Local police said two workers were checking an electrical distribution board when the explosion occurred on Sunday morning. Both men, aged 21 and 27, were taken to hospital with burns to their faces and upper bodies. The explosion comes less than a week after the Japanese car maker suffered a ransomware attack by hackers. At this stage there are no links between the two incidents.

Video: Ferrari releases 'Le Grande Rendez-Vous' with F1 driver Charles Leclerc

A new short-film by Oscar-winning director Claude Lelouch pays homage to his famous 1976 short-film Rendezvous (originally titled C'était un rendez-vous). The new film premiered in France on Saturday night and shows Ferrari Formula One driver Charles Leclerc driving a Ferrari SF90 around the streets of Monaco.

Gran Turismo 7 revealed

Gran Turismo 7 – the eighth installation of its iconic racing series – has been announced, with speculation the title could be available from November this year. Teased alongside the unveiling of the new Sony PlayStation 5 this week, the video (which can be viewed below) promises a return to form for the franchise. A city-styled map with various outlets – including used-car dealerships – returns.

Tesla and Volkswagen supplier claims electric battery can last 2 million kilometres

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) – an electric vehicle battery supplier to Tesla and Volkswagen – has completed development of a battery that it claims will last for 2 million kilometres of driving. In an interview with news agency Bloomberg earlier this week, CATL’s chairman Zeng Yuqun said development of the battery pack was finished and production was ready to begin. “If someone places an order, we are ready to produce,” Mr Yuqun told Bloomberg.

2020 Range Rover Vogue P400 review

When I think about luxury, many things come to mind. At the forefront of such a notion for me are experiences. True, luxurious things transcend the material world. They are experiences that are seldom offered. Getting half an hour to chew the fat with your idol. Taking a tour through somewhere that isn’t open to mere mortals.

Kia e-Soul electric car converted to a commercial vehicle in Europe

Korean car maker Kia has added the electric e-Soul Cargo – an e-Soul city hatch converted for light commercial duties – to its line-up in the Netherlands, however it’s unlikely the model will see Australian showrooms. The Kia e-Soul Cargo trades its rear seats for a flat-floor with six tie-down anchors. A safety partition is also added between occupants and cargo, and a (presumably vinyl) wrap on the rear windows keeps cargo away from prying eyes.

Tesla Roaster’s rocket propulsion explained

A new video by a popular automotive YouTube channel has gone to lengths to work out how Tesla’s proposed rocket propulsion system may work on its upcoming Roadster electric sports car. The video, posted by channel Engineering Explained, discusses how Tesla’s ‘SpaceX’ option – which sees the Roadster’s rear seats removed in favour of a large tank with highly-pressurised air inside, able to vent pressure to 10 jets located on the car’s exterior – might affect performance figures.

Long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series to be offered outside China for first time

BMW will replace the 3 Series GT with a long-wheelbase (LWB) version of the 3 Series sedan in India, according to Autocar India. While the longer BMW has been available to Chinese buyers for a number of years, it's the first time a right-hand-drive version of the 3 Series has been produced.

Video: Mini Cooper S long-termer introduction

I’ve spent most of my adult life wanting to be Charlize Theron in the 2003 remake of The Italian Job, so you can imagine my delight when we welcomed our latest long-termer, the Mini Cooper S, to the CarAdvice garage. And while I won’t be driving it down the stairs of my local train station, I will be putting it through its paces as an everyday car over the next few months.

2020 Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid hatch review

It’s probably safe to say that Australia is now at a point where hybrid-powered cars are entirely unremarkable. You’ll have ridden in one as a taxi or on a ride-share trip, or maybe your office has one as a company car. The silent-operation bits come as no surprise, nor the fact that they’re really just a ‘normal’ car.

2021 Nissan X-Trail leaked – UPDATE: June 15 unveiling announced

UPDATE: Nissan of America has confirmed a June 15 unveiling for its new Rogue, which should come to Australia in the coming months as the new-generation 2021 Nissan X-Trail. The big reveal is set to occur at 9am Eastern time in the US, or 11pm Australian Eastern Standard Time. A single teaser image, shown above, accompanied the announcement. The images further down, while not confirmed, are believed to be leaked marketing shots of the new model.

10 cars that beat the coronavirus

Australians are treating themselves to “getaway cars” in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, so they can holiday at home rather than travel overseas. The federal government’s $150,000 instant asset tax write-off has also accelerated sales of certain work vehicles. That’s the analysis by car industry experts who have spotted a surprising shift in buyer tastes, as social distancing and business lockdowns slammed the brakes on new-car sales to 30-year lows in April and May.

The 10 best TV car ads of the 1980s and ’90s

For car lovers, nostalgia is a key part of the enthusiast experience. After all, how can one appreciate the automotive creations of the present without the context of the past? And if you're craving a journey back in time, there is perhaps no better way to traverse the decades than via the audiovisual treasure trove that is vintage car commercials.

Tesla workers test positive for COVID-19 after Musk opens plant against orders – report

Workers at a Tesla production facility in Fremont, California tested positive for COVID-19 last month, insiders have told The Washington Post. Employees divulged the information about two confirmed COVID-19 cases at the Tesla plant on condition of anonymity, due to fear of company retaliation. Elon Musk defied public health orders and opened the plant in May, a week before coming to an agreement with local government.

2018-2020 Bentley Bentayga recalled for fire hazard

British luxury car maker Bentley has issued a global recall for its Bentayga SUV for a potential fire hazard due to a leak in the vehicles’ fuel system. At the time of writing, Bentley had not filed a recall notice with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). CarAdvice has contacted Bentley to confirm how many Australian cars are affected. This story will be updated with more information as it comes to hand.

2020 Toyota GR Supra GT review

Unlike Australia, the Toyota A80 Supra was sold officially in the UK where I grew up. And in the 1990s, I recall lusting after this curvy coupe the first time I saw it on the road. By now, you don’t need to be told that the Supra is back. Or that its return was possible only through a collaboration with BMW (which in turn has created a new-generation Z4 roadster from the joint venture).

Around the tracks: A valiant RX-7 rescue and a stolen Dodge Challenger

When we’re not creating it ourselves, the CarAdvice team spends a lot of time finding and consuming motoring content from all over the world. Here’s a handful of the photos, articles, videos or social media posts that most caught our eye last week. Some of them are brand new, others have been online for a while. Enjoy them – just not too much, okay? Just when you starting losing faith in humanity, a story like this one comes along to restore it.

2020 Mini Cooper S long-term review: Introduction

I’ve spent most of my adult life wanting to be Charlize Theron in the 2003 remake of The Italian Job, so you can imagine my delight when we welcomed our latest long-termer, the Mini Cooper S, to the CarAdvice garage. And while I won’t be driving it down the stairs of my local train station, I will be putting it through its paces as an everyday car over the next few months.

Revisit: Mini Clubman JCW v Mercedes-AMG A35 (video)

The hottest version of Mini's Clubman, the John Cooper Works, takes on Mercedes-AMG's A35 hot hatch... on track! Which is the most fun to drive when (mostly) unleashed? Jamed Ward finds out.

2020 Porsche Cayenne GTS V8 pricing and specs

It's back. Porsche has stopped short of an outright apology in its press release this week, acknowledging that in GTS models, "the powertrain plays a particularly important part". As it did with the return of six-cylinder power in the Cayman GTS, Porsche has blessed its 2020 Cayenne GTS with the engine it deserves: a V8.

Obituary: Hans Mezger, legendary Porsche designer

Hans Mezger, the man who gave us the air-cooled, six-cylinder boxer engine found in the back of the Porsche 911, has passed away. He was 90. In a career spanning 37 years, Mezger developed and worked on numerous Porsche engines, leaving a legacy that history will not forget.

2020 Volkswagen Golf R Final Edition review

The Final Edition is the last – well, almost the last – offering for the Mk7 Golf R in Australia. And what a fitting farewell it is.

Video: New Peter Brock documentary 'Over the Top' set for release

An official trailer released overnight shows the first glimpse of a new documentary about Australian racing car driver Peter Brock. Set for cinematic release later this month, Brock: Over the Top was produced with the Brock family's endorsement, and includes an interview with his wife of 30 years, Bev. Interviews were also conducted with Brock's closest colleagues, family, and many of his peers throughout his long racing career.

Land Rover Defender-inspired Ineos Grenadier spied testing

Do not adjust your eyes, this is not an old Land Rover Defender dressed in a disguise. The box-shaped heavy duty four-wheel-drive in these spy photos is called the Ineos Grenadier – and it's coming to Australia. The name doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, but hardcore four-wheel-drive enthusiasts may want to take note.

2021 Isuzu D-Max in showrooms from 1 September

The 2021 Isuzu D-Max is officially due on sale from 1 September 2020, about one month later than planned due to delays in production caused by the global coronavirus crisis. Isuzu dealers have been notified via email that the new generation D-Max will go into production in the Thailand factory mid July, and the first shipments are due to arrive in Australia mid August.

Nissan Patrol Warrior still on track

The Nissan Patrol Warrior – a locally-enhanced version of the brand's heavy-duty four-wheel-drive wagon – is inching towards approval stage, despite interruptions due to the coronavirus crisis. Back in February, CarAdvice reported that a more off-road focused version of the popular Patrol was looking good for Australia, and despite recent rumours to the contrary, Nissan Australia’s managing director is adamant the project is still on track.

2021 Ford F-150 to launch in July, electric version due 2022

The fully-electric Ford F-150 is still coming to North American showrooms, it just won't be until 2022. That's according to Ford COO Jim Farley, revealing details about the F-Series launch in an interview with American broadcaster CNBC.

Volkswagen and Ford announce two vans as part of alliance

German and American carmakers Volkswagen and Ford have announced they will produce two small commercial vans as part of their alliance. The two vehicles, known for now as ‘city delivery van’ and ‘1Ton project’, will each have their development led by a different brand.

Ford will introduce an electric car based on a Volkswagen in 2023

Ford has confirmed it will build an electric car based on one of Volkswagen’s electric car platforms by 2023. The announcement confirms reports last year speculating that Volkswagen would make its ‘MEB’ electric car platform available for use by Ford as part of an alliance between the US and German brands.

2020 EOFY car sales: Every offer from Hyundai

Buying a new car? End of financial year (EOFY) sales are the perfect time to snap up a solid deal. To help, we're rounding up the various discounts and offers available at each manufacturer for 2020. Remember, if you're able to purchase and drive the car before June 30 and it's used for business purposes, you may also be eligible for the instant asset tax write-off. Below, we've detailed the EOFY deals available at Hyundai.

2020 Volkswagen Golf R Final Edition review

The brilliant Viper Blue paint is attracting plenty of attention, possibly because people aren’t used to such a bright hue clothing a Golf R (or any Golf really), but they couldn’t also know that just a third of the 2020 Volkswagen Golf R Final Editions will be treated to custom, hand-painted colours. We’re only getting 450 in total, so they will be scarce regardless of colour.

2021 Volkswagen Touareg Adventure price and specs

Volkswagen Australia has announced pricing and specification for its limited-edition 2021 Touareg Adventure before a local showroom debut in August. Based on the seven-seater Touareg 190TDI Premium, the Touareg Adventure will be produced in a limited-run of 150 examples. The Touareg Adventure is priced from $90,990 plus on-road costs, representing a price premium of $4200 over the standard Touareg 190TDI Premium at $86,790 plus on-road costs.

General Motors and Holden dealers in a stalemate

Holden dealers and US car giant General Motors remain at a stalemate over compensation for the sudden shutdown of the brand – despite two days of mediation. Representatives for General Motors and Holden dealers have been in mediation for the past two days, overseen by retired Federal Court Judge, the Honourable Mr Peter Jacobson QC. Although the mediation was conducted out of Melbourne, the discussions were held via video link due to coronavirus restrictions.

2021 Subaru XV revealed in US with bigger engine, but no plans for Australia

Subaru has given us a glimpse of what we could expect in the facelifted 2021 Subaru XV. The US-spec version of the Subaru XV – known in America as the Crosstrek – was announced this week with an optional 2.5-litre boxer engine. It's the same found locally in the Subaru Forester 2.5i, producing 136kW and 239Nm. As with the Forester, the 2.5-litre is only available in the Crosstrek with the CVT transmission.

Old v new: 2020 Lexus GS F v 2011 Lexus IS F

Towards the end of April, my colleague Josh Dowling published some terrible news. It confirmed Lexus had indeed ceased production of the mid-sized rear-wheel drive Lexus GS platform. This was substantiated by reports out of Japan, claiming production was to end in August 2020.

2021 Skoda Octavia Scout revealed, Australian plans still to be confirmed

Skoda has unveiled its third-generation Octavia Scout in Europe, but, while the regular Octavia models are confirmed for Australia, this new variant remains a wait-and-see offering for now. Skoda Australia director Michael Irmer said this week that while he could not confirm availability of the Octavia Scout, the badge has played here before. “Although 2020 may prove to be the year Skoda sells more SUVs than cars for the first time, the Octavia is synonymous with Skoda,” Mr Irmer said.

Tesla and Nikola ramp up electric truck plans, stock market signals approval

A fully-electric Tesla truck, called simply the Semi, may be about to go into production after Tesla founder Elon Musk sent a company-wide email out yesterday. In the email seen by news agency Reuters, Musk told employees that it was time to bring the Tesla Semi to "volume production".

New Volkswagen Amarok due 2022, will have unique look but Ford engines

The new Volkswagen Amarok – and the first be based on the Ford Ranger – will be in showrooms in 2022, the German car maker has confirmed overnight as both brands provided updates on their joint venture on commercial vehicles. And while the Ford Ranger sold in Australia is likely to continue to be sourced from Thailand, the Volkswagen Amarok will be sourced from a Ford factory in South Africa.

Coronavirus will 'very much' influence car design, says Kia executive

This year's coronavirus pandemic will forever alter the way cars are designed, according to Kia's design boss – who says the South Korean carmaker is exploring the use of anti-viral materials and the creation of cars specifically for shared mobility.

2021 Mercedes-Benz EQA spied wearing less camouflage

The Mercedes-Benz EQA electric city SUV has been spied wearing less camouflage, however details of the model’s global reveal and Australian future remain unclear. New images show the EQA – a full-electric model based on Mercedes-Benz GLA city SUV – with less camouflage than when it was teased in February completing winter testing in Sweden.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLB 45 unearthed in patent filing

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLB 45 has been laid bare after Mercedes filed detailed line drawings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, according to Automobile Magazine. The German luxury carmaker is yet to confirm the range-topping GLB, but details provided in the patent filing show numerous differences between it and the current AMG GLB 35.

2023 BMW X1 spy photos

The 2023 BMW X1 has been spied testing more than two years before its expected launch. The new model is so secret our spy photographers cut out the background to hide exactly where it was caught on camera. Despite the heavy camouflage, the BMW X1 prototype appears to be sporting larger "coffin-shaped" kidney grilles – similar to those recently revealed on the 2021 BMW 4 Series Coupé – but only running half the depth of the front bumper bar.

BMW price rises: every model listed

BMW Australia has updated pricing across its range for June, with price rises of up to $5000 on some of its most popular models. CarAdvice has been told there is no change to specification of the vehicles, and that the increases are due to "normal economic changes". “BMW constantly reviews its pricing structure, factoring in the exchange rate, inflation and changes to material costs,” a BMW Australia spokesperson told CarAdvice. Note: All prices listed exclude on-road costs.

2020 Jeep Compass price and specs

Jeep has announced local pricing and specifications for its updated Compass SUV range, in Australian showrooms now. The 2020 Compass range sees the addition of new Night Eagle and S-Limited trims, joining existing Limited and Trailhawk variants. Pricing for the 2020 Jeep Compass begins at $36,950 plus on-road costs for the entry-level Night Eagle. Limited (shown top of story) moves up to $42,950 plus on-road costs, with the S-Limited asking $45,950 plus on-road costs.

Honda cyber attack: production disrupted by ransomware

Production at a number of Honda passenger car and motorcycle factories have been temporarily halted after the Japanese automaker was targeted in a global cyber attack on Monday. Manufacturing was suspended at the facilities to allow the company to check quality control systems had not been affected, news agency Reutersreported. It's thought the ransomware had struck Honda's internal servers.

Bentley and Aston Martin slash jobs in response to market downturn

Job cuts continue to spread through the automotive industry as car manufacturers try to reduce costs due to a dramatic sales decline in the first half of 2020. Bentley has announced it would be slashing 1000 jobs, nearly 24 per cent of the company's workforce, as reported by news agency Reuters. The announcement came within 24 hours of Aston Martin announcing it would cut 500 jobs, more than 19 per cent of its personnel.

2020 Maserati Levante Trofeo Launch Edition review

I’m going to be brutally honest up-front, in order to set the context as best I can for the end. So please, bear with me. Until quite recently, I was neither here nor there with regard to my love for the Maserati brand. Watching a documentary helped, but it didn’t transform my opinion. I enjoy viewing their wares, listening to the way they sound, and understanding what they stood for. I’d admire their cars, out of respect, or lust, I’m not quite sure.

5 Things: 2020 Isuzu D-Max LS-T

It’s not a market leader in terms of ride and refinement, nor is it endowed with the latest and greatest in technology. But in terms of sales in the competitive 4x4 ute segment, the Isuzu D-Max has always managed to punch well above its weight with Australian buyers.

2021 Fiat 500 all-electric hatch revealed

The first images of the new hardtop 2021 Fiat 500 hardtop have been revealed by the Italian car company, joining the previously unveiled cabrio in the model line-up. Despite looking strikingly similar to the current 500, the new Cinquecento is all-new, and will exclusively use an electric powertrain. As reported by CarAdvice in March, only 500 of the fully-electric 2021 Fiat 500 models will be initially offered in a 'La Prima' launch edition in each market.

Tug o' war battle! 2020 Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux in a 4x4 duel

Can the ultimate automotive battle in Australia be solved with physics? If you've read our comparison between Australia’s two favourite cars, you’ll know that the battle for the top sales position is being fought on many fronts, with each vehicle giving or taking ground depending on buyer criteria.

New Mazda BT-50 teased, debut timing revealed

Mazda Australia has teased what appears to be the first new BT-50 ute in almost a decade, announcing that a "once in a generation" new Mazda model is set to make its debut on June 17, 2020. "Something huge is coming. Tune in on 17 June, 11am AEST⁠ for the global launch of a once in a generation Mazda. Set⁠ your reminder now," Mazda claimed on social media, posting a shadowy image of what appears to be a dual-cab ute.

Car subscriptions in Australia: which one is the best?

As we enter a new decade, car subscription in Australia has well and truly progressed from new-age novelty to present-day reality. The automotive industry's answer to the commitment phobia that plagues plenty of millennials, services such as GoGet and Carbar are to car ownership what Spotify is to music – and they've seen massive uptake in recent years.

Politicians slam General Motors over Holden dealer compensation

US car giant General Motors has again been roundly criticised in federal parliament over its handling of the closure of the Holden brand and the compensation offered to dealers – as mediation between the two parties started in Melbourne today. Five politicians – from both major political parties – today lined up to strongly criticise the closure of the Holden brand, and again called on General Motors to do the right thing by Holden dealers and their employees.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro: Australian price and specs confirmed

Mercedes-AMG has confirmed Australia will receive an allocation of 15 of its GT R Pro models in September, despite earlier reports that the hardcore, track-focused model may not make it Down Under. The Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro will be built in a limited production run of just 750 cars globally, stripping weight and adding performance to the Mercedes-AMG GT R coupe on which it is based.

General Motors and Holden dealers start mediation today

US car giant General Motors and Holden dealers will meet in Melbourne today as the mediation process between the two parties commences to negotiate compensation for the sudden closure of the iconic brand. Representatives for Holden’s 185 dealers – who operate 203 showrooms nationally – are disputing the initial offer of compensation by General Motors, claiming it is not a true reflection of the impact on their businesses.

Kia Stinger beats Holden Commodore in sales race

The Kia Stinger that has come out on top in the battle for a slice of the shrinking large car market, according to latest figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. Kia sold 93 Stingers in May, beating out the Holden Commodore (40 sales) and the only other combatant in the segment, the Skoda Superb (15).

Chinese cars buck the sales trend, up 36 per cent

Chinese car makers continue to defy the downward trend in Australia’s new-car market, with latest figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries showing a 36 per cent increase in the first five months of this year versus the same period in 2019. That’s bucking the current trend where new car sales have taken a hammering thanks to the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting recession.

Multi-million dollar Jucy heist: 98 vehicles stolen, 32 people charged

Police in New Zealand have apprehended 32 people allegedly linked to the theft of 98 Jucy rental cars over the Anzac Day weekend. Unlike the trademark green and purple campervans seen across Australia and New Zealand, most of the cars stolen over a number of days from a large rental car lot were unbranded Holden Captivas, Mazda3s, and Suzuki Swift models. The vehicles had reportedly been left unlocked. It's estimated that the total value of the heist was $NZ2.8 million.

2020 Alfa Romeo Giulietta price and specs

Though it barely troubles the scorer on Australian sales charts, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatch has had a final range adjustment to see it through before production comes to an end later in 2020.

2021 Toyota Sienna people-mover revealed overseas

You’re looking at the 2021 Toyota Sienna – or, if you’re of an optimistic bent, a perfectly reasonable Tarago replacement. After the long running Tarago people-mover pulled up stumps in Australia (as did its Japanese-market Estima equivalent) to be replaced by the HiAce-based Granvia with its hospitality industry-skew, a gap opened up in Toyota’s range.

2020 Audi e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportback price and specs

Australian pricing has been announced for the 2020 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback SUVs – the brand’s first ever all-electric passenger cars – before the models become available for online sale on June 19. The five-seater Audi e-tron will launch in Australia in four trim levels, with two special editions. The regular wagon-bodied e-tron 50 quattro and e-tron 55 quattro SUV models open the line-up at $137,700 and $146,700 respectively. (Note: all prices in this story exclude on-road costs.)

2020 Isuzu D-Max LS-T review

It’s not a market leader in terms of ride and refinement, nor is it endowed with the latest and greatest in technology. But in terms of sales in the competitive 4x4 ute segment, the Isuzu D-Max has always managed to punch well above its weight with Australian buyers.

2021 Volkswagen California Beach and Multivan Cruise price and specs

Volkswagen Australia has announced two limited-edition models of its facelifted T6.1 van range for online sale later this month. The California Beach Camper Van and Multivan Cruise limited editions will be built in a short production run of just 30 cars each, priced from $74,990 for the Multivan Cruise, and $94,990 for the California Beach Camper Van. Both prices exclude on-road costs. Both models will be sold exclusively through Volkswagen’s online sales portal from 10am, June 24, 2020.

2020 Volkswagen Amarok XL and XXL pricing and specs

Volkswagen has released Australian pricing and specifications of its factory-endorsed, long-wheelbase Amarok XL and XXL conversions, with prices starting from $10,595 RRP for an XL cab-chassis upgrade. This comes on top of the initial purchase price of an Amarok, with prices starting from $44,590 (before on-road costs) for a dual-cab TDI400 with a six-speed manual gearbox. The cheapest V6 Amarok, also with a six-speed manual gearbox, is $49,590 before on-road costs.