Toyota launches C+pod electric vehicle in Japan

Toyota has taken the wraps off its new urban-focussed electric vehicle, the diminutive C+pod. Powered by a small rear-mounted electric motor with 9.2kW and 56Nm sending drive to the rear wheels, the C+pod has a claimed top speed of 60km/h. Power for the electric motor comes via a 9.06kWh lithium-ion battery, giving the C+pod a claimed range of around 150km.

2021 Hyundai Palisade N Line could pave the way for a performance Palisade N

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade has just landed in Australia, offering buyers a viable seven- or eight-seater alternative to other large SUVs like the Toyota LandCruiser, but for those who don't necessarily need proper off-road capabilities and a body-on-frame construction.

Video: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 v 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport P250 R-Dynamic SE

The Land Rover Discovery Sport is no stranger to Australians, having gone on sale here in 2015. The Mercedes-Benz GLB, however, is much newer having gone on sale in 2020. Both occupy the medium-SUV class, and both fall into the ‘prestige’ sub-segment of the category. So, which is the better of these two flexible family freighters?

Oops: Bronco Raptor confirmed on Ford engineer's career profile – UPDATE: Could it be badged Warthog?

UPDATE, January 1, 2021: The hardcore, flagship Ford Bronco might not be badged 'Raptor' after all. An email sent to a member of the Bronco6G forum from Michigan-based automotive parts supplier Axis Automation details a number of upcoming internal-combustion and all-electric vehicles for which the company is producing components, including a 'Bronco Warthog', codenamed U725.

2021 Skoda Kamiq 85TSI review

Skoda is one of the few remaining brands to have a passenger car as its best-selling model. You may have already guessed that it’s the Octavia. At the end of November 2020, the Czech brand had also yet to join those manufacturers whose SUVs outsell all of their passenger cars. That’s all but guaranteed to change in 2021 with the arrival of the Czech brand’s latest SUV, the Kamiq (pronounced Kammick).

Vale Holden: End of the road today, after 72 years

It seems like an eternity ago that General Motors executives from Detroit shocked Australia by announcing the Holden brand would be axed on the last day of 2020. Now that day has come. The announcement in February 2020 that Holden was pulling out of Australia altogether – less than three years after closing its local factories and amid its weakest sales in more than 60 years – came moments before the world was gripped by the coronavirus crisis.

2021 Predictions - what will the future bring?

Whelp, 2020 sure has been a doozy. But beyond the suggestion that 2021 can only be an improvement, just what will the new calendar bring? At CarAdvice / Drive, we're in for a massive year - where we'll see the launch of the new Drive.com.au platform and a coming together of our two great mastheads. What's more, we will shortly announce the details of the 2021 Drive Car of the Year program, so make sure you stay tuned for that!

Top 5: Most read news stories of 2020

There was plenty of global news in 2020, which will go down in the history books for the year an invisible virus brought the world to a standstill. But while the automotive industry wasn't immune to the impacts of Covid-19, there was still plenty of news to cover. As many Australians endured through lockdowns, there were five news stories which dominated on CarAdvice. Here are the top five news articles for 2020.

2021 Hyundai Kona N teased

After months of rumours and spy shots, a trio of official teaser images of the 2021 Hyundai Kona N have at last been released, ahead of the Hyundai performance SUV's anticipated unveiling in the coming months. Three Christmas-themed images published on Hyundai N's Instagram page – one of which is captioned "A new N is coming to town..." showcase an upcoming N performance model, wrapped in the same conspicuous 'camouflage' that adorned the i30 Sedan N in teaser images released in November 2020.

Modern Classic Review: 1991 Holden VP Commodore SS

Modern Classic Review – the CarAdvice team take time away from Australia’s new car landscape to look at machines we consider true modern classics. What’s more, we’ll try to turn our focus to cars that haven’t quite fallen out of reach in terms of scarcity and affordability. Is there something on your radar? Let us know what modern classics you would like to see the team review.

Marketplace: Family off-road SUV buying guide

We've all heard about it: pulling the rug out from international travel has caused Australian tourists to look inward. Not spiritually, but geographically. Places like Aspen and the Andes might be out of reach at the moment, but domestic travel is shaping up to boom over the next twelve months for many Australians.

2021 BMW M5 CS teased, January 2021 debut confirmed

The 2021 BMW M5 CS has been teased, ahead of its full unveiling in January 2021. A short walkaround video posted to BMW M's social media pages provides the first glimpse at the upcoming M5 CS, revealing its copper-finished kidney grilles, M8 Competition First Edition-derived daytime-running lights, and its 20-inch, forged aluminium alloy wheels, which wear a gold finish and hide carbon-ceramic brake discs clamped by red calipers.

Ford’s virtual race car gets real

Physical manifestations of virtual concept cars are nothing new by now. The latest brand to join the party is Ford, with an e-sports-ready race car designed and modelled in physical form. Released under the Team Fordzilla umbrella, the P1 concept owes its design to the team's Twitter followers. A series of polls determined how the car would take shape, with users voting for what they’d like to see from the end product.

Video: 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross Life long-term introduction

This is the Volkswagen T-Cross – it’s the newest and smallest member of the Volkswagen T-name SUV family. It’s light on size, and pretty light on frills – and so begs the question, that as an urban runabout, do you really need any more? Well, we’ve got this one for the next few months as part of our long term fleet, to find out!

2021 Volvo new cars

2021 will be a year of electrification for Volvo, as the brand pledges to have only electric, hybrid and mild-hybrids by the second half of the year. Along with axing diesel engines completely from their lineup, Volvo is also introducing a more efficient 'B-Series' mild-hybrid range of petrol engines across the range.

2021 Volkswagen new cars

A chronic shortage of vehicles to sell - namely SUVs and Amarok - hurt Volkswagen in 2020. The signs are good for 2021, though. Volkswagen Group was down 21.5 per cent in Australia for the first 11 months compared to 2019, but it's not all bad news. Firstly, 2019 was a solid year for the brand, and secondly, the drop was almost entirely related to not actually having enough vehicles here to sell.

2021 Toyota new cars

Toyota weathered the storm of 2020 fairly well, with sales down ever so slightly, though not significantly. With the GR Yaris as the headline-grabber of the year, the true volume was left up to models like the RAV4 and newly introduced Yaris Cross light SUV.

2021 Tesla new cars

It's been a big year for Tesla, certainly on the stock market where its share price continues to soar, in the process elevating Elon Musk to the position of of second-richest person in the world, behind only Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos. What we don't know about Tesla, is how many cars it sold in Australia, with the American automaker opting out of industry reporting.

2020 Toyota Yaris SX Hybrid review

Can’t really sugarcoat it, can you? If you’re in the market for a new light car, or city runabout, they’re not all as cheap as they once were. Everything creeps up over time, but in the case of the 2020 Toyota Yaris range, that creep-up happened almost overnight, as the cheap and cheerful previous generation made way for this all-new car.

Hyundai adds HTWO hydrogen sub-brand to growing portfolio

The Hyundai Motor Group has detailed its plans to add a dedicated hydrogen fuel cell sub-brand, following in the footsteps of a similar electric division, announced in August 2020. The new company arm, dubbed Htwo (styled as HTWO), continues Hyundai’s existing background in hydrogen fuel cell development, which reaches back over 20 years.

2021 Audi S3 receives 272kW Abt tuning treatment

German tuner Abt Sportsline has unveiled its high-performance take on the new-generation 2021 Audi S3 hot hatch, two months after the Audi model's sales launch in Europe.

2021 Kia Sportage GT-Line petrol long-term review: City compatibility

I’m now well over three months into my 2021 Kia Sportage long-term loan, and if I had a dollar for every time someone asked me ‘Is it pronounced sport-arj or sport-edge?’ I would be a very wealthy woman. For this review instalment, I’ve chosen to examine the Sportage’s around-town credentials, given the holiday period is fast approaching and, once it hits, I plan to be anywhere but the city.

2021 Suzuki new cars

Suzuki sold out of cars in 2020 and is currently scrambling to get more stock ready for 2021 after recent updates to the Swift and Vitara. As Australians avoid public transport in the wake of the coronavirus crisis – and shift back into safe, reliable and affordable cars – Suzuki dealers were left almost empty, except for cars that had 'sold' signs on them.

2021 Subaru new cars

Subaru has struggled in 2020, falling by more than 20 per cent. The industry as a whole on average has receded around 15 per cent. The main reason for the brand's decline is aging product. 2021 could change its fortunes, however. Subaru is set to launch its all-new Outback, new BRZ sports car and new Levorg performance wagon all in 2021. MORE: Everything Subaru

2021 SsangYong new cars

Although SsangYong has been travelling through some murky corporate waters in 2020, there are some important updates coming for the Korean SUV manufacturer in 2021. The seven-seater Rexton four-wheel drive SUV is due for a shot in the arm, with a significant facelift bringing a bolder new look, with other updates yet to be confirmed. SsangYong's local arm has confirmed it for Australia, with timing yet to be announced.

2021 Skoda new cars

Skoda almost halved the downturn felt by the market as a whole – dropping 8.8 per cent year-to-date against a strong 2019. In real terms and in a challenging climate, the Volkwagen sister brand is going relatively well in Australia. 2020 saw the injection of quality new models – updated Kodiaq arrived, as did new Kamiq – which came a little too late to make a big impact on sales figures.

2021 Ford Escape ST-Line review

The Escape is Ford's all-new medium-SUV contender. Like the excellent, recently launched Ford Puma, it represents the brand's second attack on the ever-burgeoning category. Like the Puma, expectations are high. Not just from us here at CarAdvice, but also the brand itself. It needs to diversify its portfolio and begin selling into different segments. At present, the bulk of its sales are from the pick-up/cab-chassis segment courtesy of the Ford Ranger. Is the Escape up to the task?

Ssangyong Australia says “business as usual” despite bankruptcy filing in South Korea

Struggling South Korean car maker Ssangyong says it is “business as usual” and will continue to sell and service cars in Australia – despite filing for bankruptcy just days prior to Christmas 2020. Ssangyong has been in financial pain for years and Indian conglomerate Mahindra and Mahindra had been trying to sell its majority shareholding in the company over the past six months.

2021 Rolls-Royce new cars

Rolls-Royce sold 40 cars in Australia in the months leading up to December 2020 – only eight short of its total at the same point in 2019. The main event for 2021 will be the arrival of the second-generationGhost sedan, which debuted in September 2020. Shortly thereafter, a Ghost Extended variant – featuring a lengthened body – followed.

2021 Renault new cars

Renault's sales in 2020 decreased by more than 70 per cent compared to the year prior, amid overall dwindling sales in the automotive sector. Notably, the French marque announced it would farewell its Clio hatchback from the Australian line-up in August 2020, after it managed only 23 sales in all of 2020 before getting the axe.

2021 Range Rover new cars

Like many brands in the luxury SUV segment, Range Rover experienced decreased sales volumes in 2020, likely due to the challenging market conditions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. The British brand has shifted 3376 vehicles year-to-date (up to the end of November 2020), compared with 5013 over the same period in 2019 – a 33 per cent decline.

The five worst supercar replicas ever

Just like any other prohibitively expensive luxury item, there will always be an excess of imitation supercars – some, however, are considerably more convincing than others. Pagani Zonda This Pagani Zonda knock-off is underpinned by a £100 (approximately AU$180) Ford Granada chassis from Britain.

2020 Aston Martin DB11 Volante review

Some cars you simply drive. Point A to point B conveyances that do little to elicit much in the way of emotion. Others make a mid-level statement – a four-wheeled extension of personality and standing.

2021 RAM new cars

Ram Trucks Australia has endured 2020. The brand has finished up the year 15 per cent higher year on year, despite the pandemic and bushfire season. The bulk of the brand's sales performance in 2020 comes courtesy of the entry level 1500 Express model. In 2021, Ram Trucks Australia will be offered a new suite of new product – including a 523kW supercharged version of its Ram 1500. MORE: Everything Ram

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee spy photos

The next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee has been spied testing on US roads, ahead of its expected debut sometime in 2021. Images captured by our spy photography partners reveal the fifth generation of the American brand's large SUV will mark an evolutionary step over its predecessor in the styling department, taking cues from a range of Jeep's newer models.

I love it when a plan comes together - Original A-Team van up for auction

"In 1972, a crack commando unit was sent to prison by a military court for a crime they didn't commit. These men promptly escaped from a maximum-security stockade to the Los Angeles underground. Today, still wanted by the government they survive as soldiers of fortune. If you have a problem, if no one else can help, and if you can find them....maybe you can hire The A-Team."

2021 Porsche new cars

Porsche largely defied the COVID-19 downward trend for new car sales, down just 1.2 per cent year-on-year. The stars of the show were again the SUVs, with Macan and Cayenne accounting for a remarkable 83 per cent of total Porsche sales. Proving the appetite for 'coupe' style bodies exists, the arrival of the Cayenne Coupe in 2020 has seen sales of the wagon-bodied Cayenne take a hit.

2021 Peugeot new cars

Peugeot looks to be avoiding the headwinds of 2020. It sold a similar number of cars as it did the year before, down less than three per cent – in a market that has receded over 10 per cent on average. In 2020, the brand launched its all-new 2008 small SUV (pictured above), and refreshed its 308 small car range. Next year, Peugeot plans to introduce an electrified plug-in hybrid version of its most popular vehicle – its 3008 medium SUV. MORE: Everything Peugeot

2021 Nissan new cars

MORE: Everything Nissan

2021 Mitsubishi new cars

With overall sales down by almost a third in 2020, Mitsubishi will be no doubt he hoping for a turnaround in 2021. While updates to the Eclipse Cross SUV, and Outlander PHEV in late 2020 helped maintain momentum, 2021 should see some bigger introductions.

2020 Ford Fiesta ST review

As a non-native manual driver who’s more at home doing the supermarket run than laps of the track, I figured the 2020 Ford Fiesta ST wouldn’t necessarily be my speed (pardon the pun). How wrong I was. In my week with the Fiesta ST, I tackled everything from errands in the rain to dirt roads and winding beachfront freeways, and never had to sacrifice the car’s inherent sense of fun.

2021 Mini new cars

For somewhat of a niche brand, Mini had a pretty impressive year in 2020. Sales of the six-door Clubman were up over 24 per cent and many other models were limited purely by supply. The brand recently saw the arrival of the hardcore JCW GP model as well as a refreshed Countryman SUV. But, while a number of product updates are expected from Mini in 2021 (Cooper S facelift for one...), the brand's local arm remains tight-lipped about exactly which models will be launched in the new year.

2021 MG new cars

MG is having a bumper year. The brand is up over 70 per cent year to date, with its total sales figure reaching four digits for the first time ever in 2020. Also in 2020, the brand launched its first electric vehicle in Australia, the ZS EV. It is a small SUV, and is currently the cheapest electric vehicle on sale in Australia.

2021 Mercedes-Benz and AMG new cars

Mercedes-Benz cemented its place as Australia's leading luxury carmaker in 2020, its 26,350 passenger vehicles sales to the end of November placing it well ahead of arch rivals BMW and Audi. Almost half of those sales comprised just two models – A-Class and GLC-Class – underscoring the buying public's taste for small cars and medium SUVs.

2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk review

These days, if you want to make an SUV stand out, you need to do something special. And no, not just a cool name and some flash styling accoutrements. For a car to grab your attention these days, it needs special traits of engineering and performance.

2021 McLaren new cars: The incoming supercars to look out for

McLaren cars are a niche proposition at the best of times and yet, despite a financially difficult year for many, the marque managed to somewhat maintain its sales foothold in 2020, only losing around 25 per cent of ground. As of November 2020, McLaren had managed to shift 59 cars compared to the 79 it sold in the same period the year prior.

Classic car review: 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen

We bust our guts bringing you the latest and greatest cars as soon as we possibly can, but we’re a bit behind the curve with this one. The Benz Patent-Motorwagen was the world’s first internal combustion production car, its name inspired by the fact Karl Benz received the German patent for this radical new invention in 1886. And on a recent Mercedes Benz Classic event in Germany, CarAdvice had the chance to experience this near-exact replica.

Top 5: Best Christmas-themed car videos of 2020

Christmas always means there's overall less car news hitting the wires, but that doesn't mean you can't get your daily car fix – complete with a little tinsel. Here are the top five fun Christmas-themed car videos to enjoy while you put your feet up and recover from a long lunch with family and friends. This short and sweet video from BMW M gives the people what they want: cars doing donuts in the snow around a large Christmas tree.

Merry Christmas from the CarAdvice / Drive team

On behalf of the entire team here at CarAdvice / Drive, we would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy Christmas.

2021 Kia Picanto S review

Meet one of Australia’s cheapest cars. The 2021 Kia Picanto S starts from $15,190 plus on-road costs, or $16,990 drive-away. That’s for a white car with manual transmission, the exact example in these photos. For Kia, it doesn't get any more affordable than this. Automatic transmission and metallic paint push the price to $17,990 drive-away and beyond. Give or take a difference of $200 to $300 compared to its closest rivals, this is one of the cheapest tickets into a brand-new car.

The fascinating origins of the pine tree air freshener

We've grown accustomed to seeing them hanging from rear-view mirrors the world over, but few people have stopped to consider how and why the now-iconic pine tree air freshener came to be. The origins of this car fixture can actually be traced all the way back to 1952, when it emerged as the brainchild of a German-Jewish chemist called Julius Sämann.

'Mr GT-R' and Nissan Z product specialist Hiroshi Tamura talks spirit and purpose

Many know him as 'Mr GT-R', but Hiroshi Tamura has always had a Nissan Z car of some form in his life, and they've always been mean, extra-ordinary versions. The first was a used example of the race-focused homologation 240ZG, chosen because its pointy fibreglass snout reminded him of Japan's iconic Shinkansen – known to most of the world as a 'bullet train'.

'Mr GT-R' and Nissan Z product specialist Hiroshi Tamura talks spirit and purpose

Many know him as 'Mr GT-R', but Hiroshi Tamura has always had a Nissan Z car of some form in his life, and they've always been mean, extra-ordinary versions. The first was a used example of the race-focused homologation 240ZG, chosen because its pointy fibreglass snout reminded him of Japan's iconic Shinkansen – known to most of the world as a 'bullet train'.

Volvo's second electric vehicle confirmed for March 2021 reveal – report

Volvo has confirmed it will unveil its second electric vehicle (EV) on 2 March 2021, as reported by industry publication Automotive News. While few details of the upcoming EV have been released by the Swedish brand, it has confirmed the model will ride on the same Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) as the brand's first EV, the Volvo XC40 Recharge small SUV, and the Polestar 2 electric sedan, marketed under Volvo's spin-off performance brand.

2021 Volkswagen T-Cross long-term review: Introduction

If would be pretty fair to say that we tend to talk a lot about features and technology in cars, and generally approach the inclusion of which with a ‘more is better’ type of appraisal.

2021 Toyota Vios GR-S proves the Gazoo treatment can be used anywhere

It seems only fair that as Toyota expands the reach of its Gazoo Racing performance arm globally, more market-specific models will appear. This kind of thinking could see rally-inspired, overlanding versions of the HiLux and LandCruiser reach Australian showrooms. In Malaysia, however, it sees the GR treatment applied in a very different way.

2021 MG HS price and specs: Mid-size SUV gains entry-level Core variant

The 2021 MG HS range has been expanded for 2021, with the addition of an entry-level Core variant for the new year. Priced from $29,990 drive-away, the Core retails for $2000 less than the existing 'base' HS variant, the Vibe, with first examples scheduled to arrive in MG showrooms in January 2021.

2021 Mazda new cars

Mazda is an interesting case study in Australia, in that it has the highest percentage of private customers of any of the top ten mainstream brands. That's probably why its downturn of 15.8 percent lines up so closely to an overall 16 percent drop for the market. Mazda's figures generally closely resemble that of the market as a whole more so than any other brand.

2021 Maserati new cars

Maserati fared better than most premium car makers in 2020, with sales down just 4.7 per cent compared with the same period last year. The manufacturer sold 422 cars to the end of November 2020, only 21 less than the amount shifted over the same period in 2019.

2021 Lotus new cars

In 2020, Lotus sold 48 vehicles, a decline of eight per cent compared to last year – not so surprising for a high-performance sports brand during a testing time. There's something to look forward to next year though, and it's set to arrive in Australia in mid-2021.

2020 Toyota Corolla sedan review: Ascent Sport hybrid

You can have any Toyota Corolla you like as a hybrid, except for the top-spec sedan. That’s a slightly odd line-up, but when it comes to the four-door Corolla, instead of focusing up high, could basic be best? The 2020 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport hybrid sedan is the cheapest ticket into Toyota’s hybrid range – with a boot. For those with a preference for sedans, this is where the game starts.

2021 Lexus new cars

Lexus has remained inside the top 20 best-selling brands in Australia this year as the luxury car sector continues to reveal mixed results on the sales charts. Sales for the Japanese brand were down 13 per cent compared to the same period last year, shifting 7689 units to the end of November 2020 –1202 less than over the same period in 2019.

2020 Nissan Juke recalled for incorrectly-labelled jack

Nissan Australia has issued a recall of 299 examples of its 2020 Nissan Juke, due to incorrectly-labelled jacks. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says the jacks – which are used to lift the vehicle off the ground to change tyres – do not comply with Australian safety standards. Nissan says the omission of a correct instruction label could potentially cause an accident if a vehicle is not jacked correctly by the operator.

Toyota LandCruiser Horizon returns as final special edition for 200 Series – UPDATE: Pricing confirmed

UPDATE, December 23, 2020: Toyota has released further details of the LandCruiser 200 Sahara Horizon special edition, confirming 400 units will be built, priced from $131,896 before on-road costs. Differentiating the Horizon from the standard 200 Series Sahara is a dark front grille, black headlight surrounds, smoked foglight surrounds, Horizon badging, a heated black leather steering wheel, black headlining and chrome trim accents.

Apple plans to become car maker by 2024; Musk takes aim – report

Apple has its eye on the automotive industry, with insiders telling news outlet Reuters the tech giant wants to begin production of a vehicle in 2024. Nicknamed 'Project Titan', the self-driving electric car planned by Apple is said to be back on track, having been on and off since the idea first emerged in 2012.

2021 Nissan Navara price rises revealed, drive-away deals for ABN holders

Nissan has released drive-away prices on selected models in the new Navara ute range – two months before the updated model is due in local showrooms. However, the offers are only available to business buyers – or ABN holders – which means about 75 per cent of customers will be asked to pay full price. The 2021 Nissan Navara range will start from $32,990 drive-away for the most basic cab-chassis two-wheel-drive SL powered by a single turbo 2.3-litre diesel (120kW/403Nm).

Hyundai Veloster axed in Australia

The Hyundai Veloster has been discontinued in Australia. Hyundai Australia confirmed to CarAdvice today the asymmetrical three-door coupe has entered the run-out phase late in the third quarter of 2020 (around September), around after its local launch in the third quarter of 2019.

2021 Lada Niva leaked, channeling its outer Toyota RAV4 - UPDATE

UPDATE 23-December-2020: The 2021 Lada Niva Travel has been officially shown on the Lada website and social media channels. Production has commenced at the Togliatti factory, with the new car featuring a revised front end, and LED tail lamps on all variants. An off-road model includes a standard snorkel, unpainted body cladding and all-terrain tyres, where the mechanical underpinnings remain the same.

2021 Mazda CX-30 updated in Japan, Australian potential unclear

Mazda has treated the 2021 Mazda CX-30 small SUV to an assortment of updates in Japan, though whether we'll see the changes flow over to Australian models next year remains unclear. Mirroring updates introduced for the CX-30's Mazda 3 hatch and sedan sibling last month, the changes relevant to Australian buyers centre around the small SUV's breakthrough SkyActiv-X petrol engine.

2021 LDV new cars

It was a big year for LDV, which saw 2020 sales leap 33 per cent over its result in 2019. This was led by the T60 ute, which has no scheduled updates coming in 2021. Stock of the recently-launched Deliver 9 large van will be bolstered in Q1, and other markets have seen a minor facelift to the smaller G10 van and people mover which may flow on to Australia. MORE: Everything LDV

2021 Land Rover new cars

Years don't get much bigger or more important for Land Rover, which launched the all-new Defender across the globe in 2020. 2021 continues that theme of icon re-imagining, with the short-wheelbase Defender 90 joining the existing Defender 110 range. MY21 Defenders will also get a new range of drivelines, which includes a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel replacing the current 2.0-litre four-pot D200 and D240 variants.

2021 Lamborghini new cars

Lamborghini was hit hard by the pandemic in 2020, down 26.8 percent to the end of November. The Italian manufacturer sold 101 cars in the first 11 months of 2020 against 138 over the same period in 2019. Not even Urus was enough to prop up sales in Australia. Even long-time rival Ferrari was down this year though, over the same period.

2021 Kia new cars

Kia says 2020 sales scaled back by just under 10 per cent during 2020, in a year where no one quite knew what was in store for the market. While the new Sorento added some much needed fresh metal to showrooms, there's more to come. Kia has confirmed that alongside the current diesel and incoming V6 petrol models, petrol-electric hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions will also join the range.

2020 Mitsubishi Express SWB automatic review

Refreshed earlier in 2020, it’s hard to argue the case that the 2020 Mitsubishi Express SWB automatic wasn’t in line for an update. 2013 was the last time we’d seen the Express nameplate locally, and this time it’s a Renault Trafic under the skin. The 2020 variant landed Down Under in one GLX specification, but with the choice of short- and long-wheelbase platforms. There is also the choice of a manual and an automatic, but each transmission is mated to a different engine.

2017-20 Ferrari 812 Superfast recalled over rear window fault

Ferrari Australia has recalled 140 examples of its 812 Superfast from model years 2017 to 2020 over an issue that could see the rear window detach from the rest of the car. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says "incorrect bonding of the rear window may lead to decreased adhesion of the rear window to the rear hood".

2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 powertrain details leaked

Powertrain details of the upcoming 2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric vehicle have leaked, ahead of its full debut in early 2021. Information published by Hyundai's Austrian arm – and subsequently discovered by The Korean Car Blog – reveals the Ioniq 5 will launch in Europe in limited-run 'First Edition' trim, offered solely with a 58kWh battery enabling a 450km range on the strict WLTP test cycle.

Smart has confirmed it is making a 'super-compact' electric SUV

Smart, the automotive brand best known for its pint-sized, subcompact cars, has confirmed it is developing an electric SUV that will be small on the outside, but big on the inside. According to a LinkedIn post from the brand's Vice President of Sales, Marketing & After-Sales, Daniel Lescow, Smart's first SUV "won't just be any SUV". "It will be exceptional – instantly recognizable as smart, ultra-modern, sophisticated and advanced in connectivity solutions," Mr Lescow said.

Mitsubishi's 10-year warranty officially permitted by consumer watchdog

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has allowed Mitsubishi's conditional 10-year warranty offer to stand, ruling that it does not prevent competition in the automotive repair and servicing industry. The consumer watchdog announced that is had not objected to an exclusive dealing notification lodged by Mitsubishi in regards to its recently-announced 10-year, 200,000km extended warranty.

Tesla Superchargers already accessible to other electric cars, Elon Musk claims

Tesla's global network of high-speed Superchargers could soon be accessible to electric vehicles from other manufacturers, according to a recent claim from the company's CEO, Elon Musk. Previously, Superchargers have only been available to Tesla owners, but the American car maker has indicated in the past that it would be open to making the network accessible to other manufacturers, pending a cost-sharing agreement was in place.

Video: 2021 Ferrari SF90 Spider road testing

The 2021 Ferrari SF90 Spider has been caught testing on the road, just weeks after the model was first unveiled. The hard-top convertible is powered by a plug-in hybrid 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine, with the powertrain producing a total of 745kW and 800Nm, aided by three additional electric motors producing 162kW.

Mazda adds iconic RX-7 to heritage parts program

Mazda has added two more models to its burgeoning heritage restoration program. The second- and third-generation Mazda RX-7 join the first-generation Mazda MX-5 in having range of factory parts made available as part of its heritage parts program.

2021 Jeep new cars

Jeep's current showrooms around Australia are stocked with relatively fresh metal, including an updated Compass, new Gladiator and the reasonably-new Wrangler. The 'JL' Wrangler range is set for a shake-up in 2021, with a new blacked-out Night Eagle specification joining the ranks. The Sport S also returns as the cheapest Wrangler variant, which is currently priced from $51,950 in Limited (two-door) configuration.

2021 Jaguar new cars

Jaguar didn't have a stellar year in terms of sales in 2020, but hopefully a refresh of some key models will change that in 2021. The mid-sized Jaguar XE and large XF sedans will both receive a facelift, as will the brand's top-selling model, the E-Pace SUV. Performance fans will see an update to the powerhouse F-Pace SVR SUV in Q2, joining a facelifted version of the standard F-Pace, though timing for the latter has yet to be confirmed.

2021 Isuzu new cars

Isuzu had a strong year considering the market challenges, with sales of the D-Max ute reaching its highest monthly result ever in November 2020 – up 52.7 per cent year-on-year. Isuzu made it into the Top 10 selling brands for the first time ever, despite having only two models in its range (attracting 2943 sales, up 36.2 per cent), largely on the back of the arrival of the new D-Max ute.

2021 Hyundai new cars

Hyundai has already started its ambitious rollout of 18 new models in 18 months – with the recent Hyundai i30 facelift, new i30 Sedan, new Palisade, and updated Santa Fe – but the onslaught will gain momentum next year. Among the mainstream models there will be a new Hyundai Tucson mid-size SUV (pictured above and below), a new Sonata sedan, the Ioniq 5 (its first dedicated electric car) and well as lots of sporty N Line or high-performance N variants.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe review: Australian first drive

The Hyundai Santa Fe has had its biggest update since the current-generation model went on sale in 2018 – and it has coincided with price rises of up to $3500. The update is distinguished by a bold facelift and new wheel designs, but the big news is inside the cabin and under the bonnet. Key changes include advanced safety tech across the model line-up, a new more-efficient alloy version of the 2.2-litre turbo diesel – now matched to an eight-speed twin-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive.

2021 Isuzu D-Max recalled for seatbelt fault

Isuzu Ute Australia has issued a recall of 690 examples of its new 2021 D-Max dual-cab ute due to a seatbelt fault. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says the rear seat seatbelt pretensioner locking tab may be defective and will not tension properly.

Porsche set for Le Mans return

Porsche has confirmed it will contest the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2023. The German manufacturer will contest the series under the new LMDh regulations, eschewing the much-vaunted hypercar category that has already attracted entries from Toyota and Peugeot. The new LMDh category – essentially a replacement for the WEC’s existing LMP2 category – allows for hybrid drivetrain and bodystyle freedoms which must be married to a spec chassis from one of four suppliers.

MG to launch electric sports coupe in late 2021, will be sold in Australia – report

MG will launch its all-electric sports coupe in late 2021, according to a new report from the December 9, 2020 issue of Autocar magazine. What's more, the report specifically states the model will be offered in right-hand-drive markets including Australia. The MG brand – which was synonymous with small and affordable sports cars throughout much of the 20th century – is yet to build a performance-oriented product under current Chinese SAIC Motor ownership.

2021 Audi A3 delayed: Hatch and sedan due second half of 2021

The 2021 Audi A3 hatch and sedan won't arrive in Australia for up to 12 months, the company has announced. Audi Australia confirmed to CarAdvice the new-generation A3 hatch and sedan won't touch down on Australian shores until the second half of 2021 – some 12 months after the hatch was initially due to arrive late in the second half of 2020, and six months after the sedan's initial scheduled arrival date of the first half of 2021.

2021 Honda new cars – what to expect

As of November 2020, Honda had cornered 3.2 per cent of the Australia new-car market for the year, down from 4.1 per cent the year prior. The bulk of these sales went to two SUV models – the larger CR-V and the smaller HR-V – which ranked as the brand's first and second top-selling cars, respectively.

2021 Haval new cars

It was a case of steady as it goes for SUV brand, Haval, in 2020. No new models arrived last year, though the very tail end of 2019 saw an update to the H2 small SUV filter into showrooms. H2 sales more than doubled during 2020, and the brand as a whole grew sales by almost 90 per cent over the year. The pace is set to pick up in the new year.

2021 Mini John Cooper Works GP review

Welcome to the world of the superfan. Sure, you can see the concert and buy the t-shirt, but these people are already backstage and on a first-name basis with the lead singer’s mum. Superfans are plugged in, switched on and ready to take whatever comes their way to heighten the emotional fandom experience. We’re talking next-level engagement. But a bootlegged acoustic album of unreleased collaborations with Sting is minor-league compared to a limited edition, hardcore automotive product.

2021 Great Wall Motors (GWM) new cars

Great Wall Motors (GWM) had a quiet 2020, with its segment-cheapest Steed tallying up just shy of 1700 sales, and not receiving any significant updates. This might all change however, with the arrival of the all-new GWM Ute Cannon. It's already on sale in 2020, but will have an opportunity to shake up the segment in 2021.

2021 Toyota Fortuner GXL review

Not long after the Toyota Prado crept into the space (price-wise as well as size-wise) that used to be occupied by the LandCruiser, Toyota filled the gap with the Fortuner. In many ways, though, the 2021 Toyota Fortuner GXL could be thought of as the one Toyota 4WD offering that hasn’t dominated the market.

2021 GMSV Chevrolet new cars

Holden might be gone but General Motors will live-on in the form of GMSV and Chevrolet. General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) is a factory-backed operation with a direct line to Detroit, but the vehicles will be converted locally to right-hand-drive by the same outfit that transformed Holden Special Vehicles for more than three decades. The GMSV line-up currently only has the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ powered by a 6.2-litre V8 petrol backed by a 10-speed auto.

2021 MG ZS EV review

It's not the easiest task for car manufacturers – build a car that offers zero emissions, make it family-friendly, and ensure it’s not going to burn a hole in the consumer's pocket. Oh, and did I mention that looks are important, too? Turns out MG is giving this all-boxes-ticked approach a solid attempt, with the new ZS EV. While there is a perception that electric equals expensive, the MG is trying its best to show that this doesn’t always have to be the case.

Clamp down on personalised plates that promote speed – UPDATE

UPDATE – 18 December 2020: VicRoads has returned 'WEPN' number plates back to owner Peter Hansen following public backlash. In June 2020, VicRoads warned Mr Hansen they had intended to cancel the number plates as they were deemed as being offensive, despite being fitted to his Holden Torana show car for a decade. See the original story below.

Isuzu Ute Australia pledges $100,000 to charity for Christmas

Isuzu Ute Australia has pledged a donation of $100,000 across three charities. The announcement names The Salvation Army, Beyond Blue, and Lifeline Australia as beneficiaries of the money. With many Australian families doing it tough in 2020, Isuzu says the support will help those experiencing both financial and emotional hardship. The Salvation Army has been helping Aussies for 140 years, with its support officers on the ground helping people each day.

NSW Green Slip market to expand after Youi granted CTP licence

Consumers now have more choice in the New South Wales compulsory third party insurance (CTP) scheme with the announcement insurer Youi has secured a licence to offer the mandatory cover to all NSW motorists. CTP insurance, also known as a ‘Green Slip’, is required by NSW law in order for motorists to register their vehicle in the state.

2021 Genesis new cars

Hyundai's luxury brand Genesis will continue its expansion as a standalone range in 2021, and the number of showrooms will grow from one to three. Genesis launched two all-new models in late 2020 – the G80 limousine and GV80 large SUV – but they will be joined by more models in 2021.

2021 Ford new cars – what's coming over the next year?

The year 2020 marked the arrival of two fresh models for Ford – first, the overhauled Escape medium SUV in late 2020, followed closely by the all-new, European-made Puma compact SUV. The former only made up nearly 3 per cent of the brand's sales in 2020, outdone by Ford's more popular large, ute-based SUV, the Everest.

2021 Fiat and Abarth new cars

Fiat, like the majority of car manufacturers in this challenging climate were down but 30 per cent is fairly significant. While a number of new models are expected from Fiat in 2021, the brand's local arm remains tight-lipped about exactly which models will be launched in the new year. We do have word on the Abarth though, which is due to release the 595 Pista. It was expected to be here in 2020 but has been delayed, and is thought to be arriving now in 2021. MORE: Everything Fiat

2021 Ferrari new cars

With 2020 being a year like no other, it's difficult to make comparisons, particularly when a lot of people may be cutting back on luxuries. Ferrari sales year-to-date are down 22 per cent, selling a total of 189 units. 2021 is looking promising, with the hotly-anticipated arrival of the Roma – the first in a new family of Grand Tourers. It marks a new era for the house of Maranello, with the brand expecting 70 per cent of Roma buyers will be first-time Ferrari customers.

2020 Hino 300 Series 616 Hybrid review

Professional gardeners don't use the typical off-the-shelf power tools you find in most backyard sheds. They use their line-trimmers and lawnmowers all day, every day, in the rain and in the heat, and the mass-market products simply wouldn't hold up to the kind of hard work their gear has to endure.

2020 Hyundai Venue Elite long-term review: Cabin utility

It’s tricky to pinpoint the moment an SUV – otherwise known as a Sports Utility Vehicle – loses its utility. Utility means many things to many people. For some it can be space for child seats, a boot to fit a small kingdom, or for others it’s simply interiors that can be thoroughly cleaned with a wet wipe. In this case, it’s safe to say the 2020 Hyundai Venue is a jack-of-all-trades, but a master of none.

Around the tracks: Man has two Kia Sportages stolen in one month

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?

Chinese brands MG, LDV, Haval and Great Wall post record sales

Australians are buying more cars made in China in 2020 than any other time in our automotive history. Official sales figures compiled by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industry (FCAI) show Chinese brands LDV, Haval, MG and Great Wall sold a record number of new vehicles up to the end of November 2020, despite a shrinking car market due primarily to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

McLaren Sabre hypercar spied in testing

An upcoming McLaren hypercar – believed to be called the Sabre – has been filmed testing near the manufacturer’s production facility in Woking, England. Posted to Reddit overnight, the video shows the low-slung coupe travelling slowly with surrounding traffic. The sound of the high performance engine can be briefly heard, however there is too much background and road noise to definitively substantiate the specific powertrain configuration.

2021 Citroen new cars

Citroen's year has been challenging. Its sales figure is down over 50 per cent year to date. However, despite selling less cars than Ferrari at one point in 2020, the brand is committed to our market. Citroen plans to launch two new models – the facelifted C3 city car, and the all-new C4 small hatch.

2021 BMW new cars

There is plenty in store for BMW fans throughout 2021, as the brand continues its special-edition rollout of existing metal, and drops the first of its new-generation electric vehicle range in the form of the polarising iX and X3-based iX3. We'll see the powerhouse M3 and M4 models arrive locally soon after the new year, but joined by the mid-range, front-wheel-drive 128ti hot hatch variant in the 1 Series lineup.

2021 Bentley new cars

Bentley had a moderate year considering the market challenges, with sales of the Bentayga SUV down about 16 per cent year-on-year. The luxury British marque has revealed an update for the Bentayga in 2021, although when it will be available on Australian shores is yet to be confirmed. What we do know is Bentley will offer both turbocharged V8 and V12 engine variants initially, but the updated plug-in hybrid option won't be made available in Australia in its current form.

Barn find: 1967 Porsche 911 S Targa restored to factory condition

A dilapidated Porsche 911 S Targa has been meticulously restored to factory condition, by Porsche, after spending nearly 40 years stowed under plastic sheeting. The 1967 model – which was the first of its kind to be delivered in Germany and is one of just 925 Targas from the era fitted with the 2.0-litre ‘S’ engine – originally served as a dealer demo in Europe, before being sold in 1969 to a customer in the US.

2020 Volkswagen Touareg 190TDI Adventure Edition review

Volkswagen has released a limited edition of its Touareg SUV to farewell the 190kW/600Nm version of its 3.0-litre turbo diesel V6 – ahead of the arrival of Euro 6 updates with 170kW and 210kW outputs, and the requirement of an AdBlue additive. The 2020 Volkswagen Touareg Adventure is the last of the Euro 5 engines for this model locally, and arrives about 18 months after this generation of Touareg went on sale.

2021 Audi new cars

Audi had a solid 2020 despite the challenging conditions, with sales up 2.6 per cent to the end of November. That slight increase comes against a market decline of 16 percent over the same period. Primarily, Audi has spent 2020 making up for lost time, after taking a number of cars off sale last year due to the requirement to meet more stringent new European WLTP regulations.

Video: 2021 Hyundai Palisade Australian first drive review

Hyundai now has a proper, full-size family SUV – and it’s one of the few in the class available with seven or eight seats.

Dieselgate: Court decision exposes Volkswagen to lawsuits

The European Union's highest court has broadened the definition of illegal emissions-cheating technology on Thursday, laying the groundwork for future lawsuits against Volkswagen Group. Defeat devices were previously only considered illegal if they manipulated emissions tests after the emissions were produced. The ruling now includes 'upstream' technology used in order to subvert government emissions tests – even if the claimed intention was to improve engine longevity.

2021 Aston Martin new cars

Like the broader new car market in 2020, Aston Martin has taken a hit this year, no doubt a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sales are down 27.8 per cent year-on-year, but we're talking low volumes overall. The first examples of the British brand's first foray into the world of luxury SUVs, the Aston Martin DBX, touched down in late 2020, however deliveries are expected to get into full swing in the first quarter of 2021. Our early drives suggest Aston is onto a winner.

2021 Alpine new cars

Alpine hasn't exactly enjoyed a stellar 2020, selling just five examples so far this year of its lone model, the gorgeous and totally charming A110 mid-engined coupe. Yet, the French brand could be about to experience a renaissance. While little has been confirmed for 2021, the fact that parent company Renault is rebranding its Formula One team to Alpine, suggests a portfolio soon to expand.

2022 Kia Niro spy photos

The 2022 Kia Niro has been spotted testing in Europe wearing heavy camouflage. Though the current Niro has never been sold in Australia – despite Kia having plans to offer it locally, despite multiple delays– the second-generation Niro seen in these photos might have a better chance of making it Down Under.

2021 Alfa Romeo new cars

Alfa Romeo had a reasonable year considering the market challenges, with sales of the Stelvio SUV up about 15 per cent year-on-year. With an updated Giulia sedan just launched, we're expecting to see similar updates flow across to the Stelvio, which is due to arrive in Alfa Romeo showrooms in the first quarter of 2021.

2021 BMW 4 Series Convertible price and specs

The 2021 BMW 4 Series Convertible will arrive locally in the first quarter of next year, with the entry-level 420i variant priced from $89,900 plus on-road costs. Alongside the 420i, Australian buyers will also have the choice of the $107,900 plus on-road costs 430i, and the range-topping M440i xDrive priced from $135,900 plus on-road costs. The new models arrive approximately four months after the 4 Series Coupe touched down in local BMW showrooms.

2021 Pagani Huayra Tricolore revealed

The 2021 Pagani Huayra Tricolore has been officially unveiled overnight. Just three examples of the Tricolore will be built to mark the 60th anniversary of the Italian Air Force's official aerobatics team, the '313° Gruppo Addestramento Acrobatic' (also known as the Frecce Tricolori), founded in March 1961, which has since grown to become the world's largest aerobatics patrol.

Toyota, Lexus all-electric SUVs teased, co-developed with Subaru – UPDATE

UPDATE, December 18, 2020: It appears the all-electric SUV from Toyota has a name: the BZ. Unearthed patent filings have revealed ten names have been registered by Toyota: BZ, BZ1X, BZ2, BZ2X, BZ3, BZ3X, BZ4, BZ4X, BZ5, and BZ5X. While it's unclear exactly which of the names will be given to the electric SUV rendered by Russian car website Kolesa, it's likely it will have the BZ prefix. This writer can confirm no association with the new model names.

Every car leaving the Australian market in 2020

It was a big year for automotive in 2020, with the exit of Holden, the cancellation of international motor shows and the Australian Grand Prix due to coronavirus, and the steady decline of new car sales. In a challenging climate, it's perhaps unsurprising that carmakers reduced their ranges, discontinued under-performers and replaced older models with hybrids, electric cars or new creations altogether.

Abarth 124 Spider dead in Australia, all stock sold out

The Abarth 124 Spider has been cut from the brand's Australian line-up. Fiat Chrysler Australia has confirmed it has axed the turbocharged Abarth roadster from the local range, a little over four years since it launched Down Under in late 2016.

Interview: Australian rally champ Molly Taylor on joining Nico Rosberg's electric off-road race team

Fresh from her stint on television show SAS Australia, rally champion Molly Taylor has announced she will be joining Nico Rosberg's team for the inaugural 'Extreme E' electric off-road racing season. The Extreme E series is designed to highlight the impacts of climate change by racing standardised electric off-road buggies in locations across the world which are most impacted from a warming climate.

Ford reveals limited-edition MS-RT R120 Transit

Ford's UK-based modification partner MS-RT has revealed its limited-edition R120. Based on the Ford Transit Connect – Ford's small van that competes internationally against Volkswagen Caddy, Renault Kangoo and Peugeot Partner – the R120 will be offered with the choice of short or long wheelbase, in either two or three seat capacity, and with either a manual or automatic transmission.

2021 Hyundai Palisade review: Australian first drive

Hyundai now has a proper, full-size family SUV – and it’s one of the few in the class available with seven or eight seats. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is the Korean car maker's biggest and most expensive model to date.

2021 Volkswagen T-Roc 110TSI Style review: Australian first drive

If you’re one of the legions of Australian buyers who’ve decided you want an SUV, but you don’t need all-wheel drive, the 2021 Volkswagen T-Roc 110 TSI Style might be just what you’re looking for. The T-Roc sits below Tiguan, and above T-Cross, and is therefore right in the sweet spot for Aussie buyers.

2021 Honda Civic Type R review: Australian first drive

With a hot hatch that’s already at the pointy end of the segment when it comes to handling and performance, Honda hasn’t needed to go back to the drawing board for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R. In the way that Japanese brands like Mazda and Lexus so often do, Honda has instead focused on fine details and incremental improvements. The result is a Civic Type R that certainly looks like a Type R, and drives like a Type R, just, better.

2021 Lexus IS review: Australian first drive

It’s always been the underdog in the fight for the premium mid-size sedan segment, trailing a trio of well-established Germans. But the Lexus IS continues to front up to the fight, bringing with it an affordable, comfortable, luxurious arsenal of weaponry.

European truck manufacturers pledge to drop diesel by 2040

All trucks made in Europe will be fossil fuel free by 2040, after an agreement was reached between manufacturers this week. In a joint declaration issued by the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) and the Postdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), truck makers concluded all heavy commercial vehicles will drop engines powered by conventional fuels (such as diesel) in order to reach carbon-neutrality by 2050.

2021 Mercedes-AMG A45 S, CLA45 S gain option of semi-slick Pirelli Trofeo R tyres in Australia

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG A45 S and 2021 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 S now offer the option of Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres in Australia, as a more track-focused alternative to the cars' existing Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S rubber.

2021 Mercedes-AMG A45 S review: Track test with Pirelli Trofeo R tyres

When you think of a ridiculously nimble and blisteringly fast four-cylinder turbocharged all-wheel-drive fun machine, a vision of a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution will likely not be far from your mind. The rally-bred Japanese pocket-rocket redefined accessible performance, and for a time, an Evo was quick on a track and all-but unbeatable for sheer entertainment from behind the wheel.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 review: Australian first drive

The use of technology to make the seemingly impossible, possible, has been called many things over the years; be it science-fiction, magic or perhaps just good old-fashioned engineering. The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 is not just the latest, largest and most expensive weapon in AMG’s war against sensible family transport, it is also a showpiece for some of that magic and science-fiction, conveniently disguised as engineering, that can be only described as anything but old-fashioned.

Urgent safety recall and “stop-delivery” notice on Toyota Yaris Hybrid

Toyota Australia has issued an urgent bulletin advising dealers to stop deliveries of the Yaris Hybrid and Yaris Cross Hybrid due to a safety concern with the hybrid system that could cause the vehicle to stop suddenly. The hybrid recall affects approximately 1300 vehicles that have either already been delivered to customers or are in showroom stock waiting to be sold.

2021 Toyota Kluger spied in Melbourne ahead of launch

The 2021 Toyota Kluger has been caught on the streets of Melbourne, ahead of the new-generation SUV's launch late in the first half of 2021. Images captured by CarAdvice's own James Ward and Kez Casey reveal the first examples of Toyota's fourth-generation seven-seater have landed on Australian soil, as the Japanese brand prepares for launch, which CarAdvice understands will occur closer towards the middle of 2021.

2021 Volkswagen Caddy: Initial Australian details

Volkswagen Australia has released further details of the new-generation Caddy line-up, ahead of its scheduled local launch early in the second half of 2021. As outlined earlier this month, three body variants will be offered locally: Caddy Cargo, Caddy Crewvan and Caddy People Mover.

Mysterious 2022 Subaru BRZ may hint at an STI model

A camouflaged 2022 Subaru BRZ has been spied testing at Fuji Speedway in Japan, wearing body parts suggesting the possibility of an STI variant. The left-hand-drive BRZ was shown on Twitter by user @taku_saf1, showing a deeper lip spoiler add-on with winglets at the sides, finished in black.

2021 Lamborghini SC20: One-off 566kW open-top revealed

The 2021 Lamborghini SC20 has been officially unveiled. The second one-off model developed by Lamborghini's Squadra Corse racing division – following the SC18 Alston of 2018 – the road-legal SC20 combines the on-track performance of the raging bull brand's race cars with an open-top, speedster-like driving experience.

2021 Mazda CX-9 price and specs: Seven-seat SUV updated with new variants, tech upgrades

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 has seen a mild update for the new year, adding new variants and updating the seven-seat family SUV's roster of interior features and infotainment technology. Headlining the CX-9's 2021 updates is the introduction of three new variants: Azami LE, GT SP and the limited-run 100th Anniversary Special Edition.

Hyundai developing 2.3-litre turbo engine for future N models – report

The next-generation Hyundai i30 N may see the introduction of a new turbocharged 2.3-litre engine. According to Korean newspaper Kyunghyang Shinmun, Hyundai is developing the new 2.3-litre turbo powertrain with a 7000rpm redline for its future performance 'N' models. This isn't the first time rumours of the engine have surfaced. Back in April 2020, a mid-engined Veloster-based track car was caught on a tow truck in Korea, with the prototype showing 'MR23T' graphics.

Pagani teases new hypercar, shows off aeronautical accessories

Italian hypercar manufacturer Pagani has teased a new upcoming model, with an official unveiling slated for 17 December 2020. The promotional video – posted to Twitter overnight – shows the vehicle equipped with aeronautical-themed accessories, including a pitot tube and a speedometer calibrated to measure in Mach (the speed of sound relative to surrounding air). A track focused Huayra R was previously confirmed for development, however it’s unclear if this is the model shown.

Mercedes-Benz Australia recalls six models from 2019-20

Mercedes-Benz Australia has recalled six of its passenger car and SUV models: the 2019 GLA, 2020 GLB, 2019-20 GLC300e, 2019-20 GLE, 2019 A-Class and 2019-20 C300e. No incidents of the faults described in any of the six recalls have been reported locally, Mercedes-Benz's local arm has confirmed. Customers affected by any of the three recalls are advised to contact their nearest Mercedes-Benz dealer to organise a fix, free of charge. Click here to find your nearest dealer.

2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter recalled with potential brake hose fault

Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall on 127 examples of its Sprinter van, citing a potential fault with the brake hose. The affected vans were sold between the 6 April 2020 and 30 October 2020 (Model Year 2020). The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says “the outer layer of the brake hoses at the front and rear axles may have been damaged during the production process”. “Affected brake hoses may leak brake fluid,” the notice continues.

2020 Jeep Compass long-term review: The family test

Under the veil of a fast-unfolding global pandemic, we’re putting our long-term Jeep Compass to task as a family hauler. And because our test Jeep is front-wheel drive, this is the battleground that matters. Being an SUV means the Compass has no shortage of competition or hungry buyers in Australia, but it will need to stand out for success.

"Not Recommended": One-third of delivery vans don't pass new ANCAP safety test

One in three new delivery vans tested by safety authorities have inadequate crash-avoidance technology – and have been put on a "Not Recommended" list following new research. The not-for-profit Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) – which ranks the crash safety of most new vehicles – found that five out of 15 vans tested did not "offer the level of active safety performance consumers should expect".

"Not Recommended": One-third of delivery vans don't pass new ANCAP safety test

One in three new delivery vans tested by safety authorities have inadequate crash-avoidance technology – and have been put on a "Not Recommended" list following new research. The not-for-profit Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) – which ranks the crash safety of most new vehicles – found that five out of 15 vans tested did not "offer the level of active safety performance consumers should expect".

2021 Audi Q5 price and specs: Price rises and updated styling for facelifted SUV

Full Australian pricing and specifications for the 2021 Audi Q5 have been announced, ahead of the facelifted model's showroom arrival in early 2021. Unveiled in June 2020, the updated version of the German brand's mid-size SUV gains revised styling in line with Audi's latest models, world-first (optional) OLED tail-lights, upgraded interior technology and more efficient engines under the bonnet – all matched by $1800-$4500 price rises, depending on variant.

Subaru confirms fully-electric Evoltis SUV for Europe

Subaru has confirmed its upcoming fully-electric Evoltis SUV will be launched in Europe. The Subaru Evoltis is based on Toyota's e-TNGA architecture, and is expected to be a twin under the skin to Toyota's electric SUV. "Subaru today confirmed the company is preparing for the launch of a full electric vehicle," the statement read.

Mercedes-Benz EQ electric vehicle offensive detailed: Six new models due by end of 2022

Mercedes-Benz's EQ electric vehicle division looks set to undergo rapid expansion in the coming years, with the brand this week releasing further details of its plans to launch six all-new models by the end of 2022. First cab off the metaphorical rank will be the EQS, an all-electric, bespoke-bodied version of Mercedes-Benz's flagship S-Class limousine, due to enter production in the first half of 2021.

2020 Isuzu MU-X LS-T review: Runout wrap

There’s an old vaudevillian trope that says when the audience has had enough of an act, a large hook would appear from offstage and drag the unlucky fellow into the wings. Perhaps a more modern representation of this is the simple decree of, “Gong him, Red”. Whether by hook or by gong, there’s no arguing that when your time is up, it's up. It’s true for entertainers and politicians, and it is true for cars.

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

Part of the joy of having a project car is actually getting the thing out and about for a drive. It’s a chance to explore the fruits of your labour and, in many cases, find something else that needs attention. Since I purchased it in March, my 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E Sportline has sat in that rare project-car camp of being able to be driven the whole time. It’s just that through Melbourne’s prolonged movement restrictions, there just wasn’t the ability to actually go anywhere.

Kia raises prices by up to $500 across the range

Kia has raised prices on four of its most affordable models. The Korean car maker has increased the prices on the Picanto, Rio, Cerato, and Seltos – with the exception of the Cerato, it's the second time the models have been hit with a price rise in the past four months. The Picanto may be the smallest car in the Kia range, but it's received the biggest price increase, with an extra $500 added to the price tag.

Total recall: Every car recall issued in Australia in 2020 so far – UPDATE

Let’s get one thing out of the way early – taking care of your car’s recall notice is an easy thing to let slide. Despite the urgency of the manufacturers and their sincere warnings about all the awful things that can go wrong if you ignore it, we’re all guilty of occasionally letting a recall service fall down the to-do list. Hot tip: Don’t let that happen. Recalls are issued for a reason and not fulfilling them could see drivers and passengers injured or killed.

Video: Lewis Hamilton tests Mercedes-AMG One hypercar in new campaign

Mercedes-AMG has launched its newest marketing campaign, this time focusing on its upcoming One hypercar and seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Hennessey unveils production version of 1355kW Venom F5

Anybody who thought that the Bugatti Chiron’s 490.48km/h top speed run in 2019 would mark the end of such macho record setting was sorely mistaken. If anything, Bugatti’s achievement – the first production car to go over 300mph (483km/h) – has triggered a wave of interest from rivals.

2021 Hyundai i30 N: Australian specifications revealed early

The 2021 Hyundai i30 N appears set to arrive in Australian showrooms in March or April 2021 with more power, increased standard equipment levels and a choice of manual and dual-clutch automatic (DCT) gearboxes.

Lamborghini and Ducati not for sale, Volkswagen confirms

Lamborghini and Ducati are safe for the time being. Since October 2020, industry rumours have suggested Volkswagen Group would be selling both Italian sports car brand Lamborghini and Italian sports bike brand Ducati. A media release overnight from Volkswagen Group confirmed the company would not be selling either of the two businesses. "There is agreement on the Board that Lamborghini and Ducati will remain part of the Volkswagen Group," the statement read.

2020 Ferrari SF90 Stradale track review

The numbers alone are mind-bending – the 2020 Ferrari SF90 Stradale is a technological tour de force of epic proportions. And if you expect Ferrari’s first plug-in hybrid to follow the traditional brief, you’d be wrong. Ferrari has gone about things quite differently.

These are Australia's safest used cars, according to accident data

With used car sales surging in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, key safety bodies are urging shoppers to consider the credentials of their secondhand purchases, with a new report ranking the best and worst models. Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) has released its latest 2020 Used Car Safety Ratings, based on data collected from 8 million vehicles involved in crashes across Australia and New Zealand.

Video: 2021 MG ZST first drive review

New small SUV offering brings advanced safety kit, new tech and a new driveline.

Draft of Federal Government's electric vehicle strategy leaked – report

The Federal Government's plan for increasing electric vehicle (EV) uptake in Australia has leaked. A draft of the 'Future Fuels Strategy' document – which details the Federal Government's electric vehicle strategy for coming years – was obtained by the ABC ahead of its anticipated full release in the coming weeks.

2021 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider 33 Stradale Tributo unveiled, Australian launch confirmed

The 2021 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider 33 Stradale Tributo has been unveiled, with a handful of examples confirmed for Australian shores. Limited to just 33 units for the US market, the special-edition 4C pays tribute to Alfa Romeo's iconic 1967 33 Stradale mid-engined sports car.

Solid-state batteries are the new arms race: Car giants race to be first

A tech company in the US has announced it is now producing 20 amp-hour (Ah) solid-state batteries for automotive applications. Solid-state batteries are an important next-step for electric vehicles (EVs), improving safety, range, weight, and charging times, compared to more conventional lithium-ion batteries currently used.

2020 Honda Civic VTi-LX hatch review

I’ve officially spent too much time in SUVs. How do I know this? Because getting into the very low-slung 2020 Honda Civic VTi-LX hatch, I nearly put my back out. Clearly, I take for granted how little effort is required to hop into jacked-up land yachts, and so my week with the Civic took some adjusting. By the end of my time with the car, I had perfected a neat squat-and-duck manoeuvre that made me look like I was simultaneously horse-riding and sheltering from a hailstorm.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid coming in second-half of next year

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid will be in Australian showrooms in the second-half of next year, rather than the middle of the year as previously reported. In a media briefing today, Hyundai Australia said the Santa Fe Hybrid would have the performance of a V6 and a respectable towing capacity.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe price and specs: More kit, price rises for updated seven-seater

Official pricing and specifications for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe have been confirmed. The seven-seat Hyundai family SUV has undergone a facelift for the new year, with new exterior styling, a more premium interior and more standard equipment for the Santa Fe – but with price rises up to $3540 to match.

2021 BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition First Edition models confirmed locally – UPDATE: Pricing, reservation details confirmed

UPDATE, December 15, 2020: BMW Australia has confirmed pricing details for the X5 M and X6 M Competition First Edition. Prices are pegged at $264,900 drive-away for the X5 M Competition First Edition and $273,900 drive-away for the X6 M Competition First Edition. That makes the special editions around $40,000 to $45,000 more expensive than their 'standard' counterparts, based on Sydney metro drive-away pricing for the regular X5 M and X6 M Competition.

2019-20 Lamborghini Urus SUV models recalled for potential fire risk

Lamborghini Australia has issued a recall of 147 examples of the Lamborghini Urus SUV from Model Years 2019 and 2020 (MY19-20), due to a potential fire hazard. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says the connector on a fuel feed line in the engine compartment of the Urus may not meet specifications.

Volvo invests over $100 million to make electric motors in-house

Volvo has announced it will invest almost AU$110 million to set up its own in-house manufacturing of motors for electric cars. The Swedish-born car maker, which is today owned by Chinese company Geely, says it will equip its existing powertrain plant in Skövde, Sweden, to assemble and eventually manufacture e-motors before the middle of the decade.

2021 Lada Niva leaked, channeling its outer Toyota RAV4

Pre-production photos of the updated 2021 Lada Niva show its design to be more than a little bit influenced by the Toyota RAV4. A pair of the facelifted SUVs were shown in a photo that surfaced on the Russian ‘Vkontakte’ social network in the past week, with the car featuring a wide plastic grille and slim, high-mounted headlamps, very much akin to the RAV4 styling (pictured below in US-spec guise). VIDEO: Old v New: Suzuki Jimny v Lada Niva comparison

2015-17 Volvo V40, V40 Cross Country recalled over cooling fault

Volvo Car Australia has recalled 958 examples of its V40 and V40 Cross Country. The recall notice, filed with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), applies to (Model Year) MY2015-2017 examples of the V40 hatch and V40 Cross Country fitted with four-cylinder 'Drive-E' turbo-diesel engines.

2021 Hyundai i30 Sedan Elite review

It’s an interesting strategy by Hyundai, dropping the Elantra from its range and replacing it with the i30 Sedan. It’s not as silly as it might seem, though, the Elantra ostensibly an i30 Sedan in all but name. The problem for Hyundai lay in the sales race, an all-important marker of success. Whereas archrival Toyota Corolla counts both sedan and hatchback sales under the one overarching nameplate, there was no such conjoining for Hyundai’s i30 Hatch and Elantra sedan.

2019 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid recalled for potential fire risk

Nissan Australia has issued a recall of 11 examples of the Nissan R52 Pathfinder Hybrid, listed as Model Year 2019 (MY19), due to a potential fire hazard. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says the oil feed line for the Pathfinder's transmission may have been installed in reverse orientation.

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI: DSG auto only, in showrooms May 2021

The new-generation 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI will be not be offered with a manual transmission option when it arrives in Australia next year. Volkswagen Australia confirmed to CarAdvice today that the eighth-generation of Volkswagen's front-drive, cult-favourite hot hatch will land in local showrooms in early-to-mid-May 2021, around one or two weeks after the core 110kW Golf range touches down on Australian shores.

Jony Ive and Apple CFO Luca Maestri candidates for Ferrari top job – report

Apple iPhone designer Jony Ive and Apple CFO Luca Maestri are being considered for the position of CEO at Ferrari, reports news outlet Reuters citing Italian media. This comes just days after Louis Camilleri left the top job at Ferrari, with sources claiming the unexpected decision was triggered by Mr Camilleri's recovery from Covid-19.

2021 Audi S4 and S5 price and specs – UPDATE

UPDATE, 14 December 2020: Pricing for the 2021 Audi S4 and Audi S5 line-up has been revised down this month, with $400 being knocked off every model in the S4 and S5 range. This story has been updated with the changes. 12 August 2020: Audi Australia has confirmed local pricing and specifications for its range of S4 and S5 performance cars due to hit local showrooms in October.

Walkinshaw teases supercharged Silverado ahead of 2021 launch

Walkinshaw Performance is preparing to launch a supercharged Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The sister company to HSV teased an audio file of a supercharged V8 on Instagram (below), with a spokesperson for Walkinshaw confirming to CarAdvice the high-performance Chevrolet Silverado will arrive in the first quarter of 2021. A distinctive supercharger whine can be heard as the engine is taken up to its redline on a dyno, as the company finalises calibration.

2021 BMW M4 Convertible revealed in patent images

The upcoming 2021 BMW M4 Convertible has leaked in patent filings, ahead of its expected unveiling in the coming months. Patent images filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office – and unearthed by members of the i4talk forum – reveal BMW's hi-po drop-top is set to combine the standard 4 Series Convertible’s softened shape with the controversial front end and aggressive styling elements of the latest M4 coupe.

Car dealers slam franchise agreement inaction, warn motorists could be left high and dry

The future of new-car dealerships in Australia – and long-term certainty on parts, warranty, and service back-up for motorists and fleets – received a major setback last week. After a two-year investigation into the power imbalance between multi-national car companies and new-car dealers – many of which are small family businesses – the Federal Government has decided not to introduce a special franchise code for the motor vehicle industry.

Porsche Cayenne: 1 million and counting

Porsche has built its one millionth Cayenne, just 18 years after the controversial SUV was launched. An SUV may have once been unthinkable for the iconic sports-car specialist, however it has been crucial to the brand's survival – and financial stability to continue making high-performance cars. The landmark vehicle (above) – a GTS variant in Carmine Red – was built on Volkswagen Group’s production line in Bratislava, Slovakia, before being delivered to a German customer.

Big Dog and Tank 300: Haval and Great Wall consider Jeep rivals for Australia

Great Wall Motors (now rebranded as GWM) – and its subsidiary Haval – are considering two new rugged-looking mid-sized SUVs for the Australian market. An email sent to potential Australian car buyers – a copy of which has been obtained by CarAdvice – shows two new models in particular that the manufacturer is actively considering.

The all-new models of 2020 – and how they're selling so far

The young up-starts, the fresh faces, the newcomers – whatever you want to call them, we've had a raft of new model arrivals in Australia over the course of 2020. But in a year that hasn't been kind to established models – prompting the shock departures of several well-loved nameplates – how have these debutante cars fared in the new-car sales stakes?

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce Ti unveiled for Europe

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce Ti has debuted for Europe, joining its 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce Ti relative – however, it's not coming to Australia. The Stelvio Veloce Ti – the Ti badge (also used by BMW) standing for Turismo Internationale, Italian for 'international touring' – aim to add some of the hi-po Stelvio Quadrifoglio's performance flavour to lesser versions of Alfa Romeo's maiden SUV.

Mercedes-Benz Vans developing all-new eSprinter architecture

Mercedes-Benz Vans is engineering an all-new platform to underpin its next-generation eSprinter models, according to parent company Daimler. Known as the Electric Versatility Platform (EVP), the modular architecture will reportedly be compatible with three battery sizes and a wide spate of body configurations. Power and range specifications are yet to be announced, however the manufacturer has confirmed all variants will be rear-wheel drive.

2021 Audi S5 Sportback review: Australian first drive

Audi's S5 Sportback is its most popular mid-sized performance product. In fact, this particular four-door sporty silhouette makes up more than 50 per cent of all Audi S4 and S5 models sold in Australia. This comes as no surprise, however. Coupe-themed body types have become all the rage in the premium segment. Audi invited CarAdvice to experience its facelifted S5 range. We chose to spend the bulk of our time with the Sportback version given its popularity.

New Cars: 2020 New Car Calendar, the December update

Australia's new car market, it is fair to say, did not have a stellar year in 2019. Month after month, sales were down, with consumer confidence low and dealers struggling with significant changes to finance regulations.

2021 Audi S4 Avant review: Australian first drive

Audi fast wagons are a thing. It all started with the original Audi RS 2 Avant. This was a Porsche-built, turbocharged estate car that warped perceptions for good. Even to this day, Audi continues with the same idea. After the RS 2 came a string of RS 4 tourers, and this – the 2021 Audi S4 Avant. The facelifted Audi S4 range has arrived in Australia, and the brand invited us along for a quick sample of its latest performance wagon.

The week that was: final Holden discounts, Toyota Camry V6 axed, supercharged Ram 1500 TRX coming

If you wanted a cheap brand-new Holden before the brand exits Australia at the end of this month, you may have left your run too late. Dealers have been told to clear all stock or miss out on discounts of up to $17,000. The Toyota Camry V6 will be axed from early 2021 as buyers shift towards four-cylinder and hybrid power, leaving the affordable V6 sedan market empty (the only rivals that remain cost in excess of $50,000).

Honda to electrify line-up in Europe by 2023

Honda is planning a shift to electric power in its European cars before 2023, as part of wide-ranging plans to reduce its carbon footprint. Speaking with the UK's Autocar, Honda's senior vice president Ian Howells said the company's European line-up will no longer contain pure internal-combustion-engined cars by the end of 2022. “It will be a combination of full electric and hybrid,” Mr Howells explained.

This company has made an insertable electric chassis for classic cars

California-based electric car start-up ZeroLabs has just launched a new electric vehicle (EV) platform that can be inserted underneath classic cars to give them a modern electrified powertrain in a matter of days. Set to launch with limited availability from late 2021, ZeroLabs is taking enquiries now for the world's first complete electric platform – featuring an electric motor, lithium-ion battery and DC fast-charging capabilities.

Volkswagen Beetle with 1006kW jet turbine listed for sale

A Volkswagen Beetle – powered by a 1006kW jet turbine – has come onto the market in the US. The car retains its original 1.6-litre petrol engine tucked away under the bonnet for the daily commute, which sends a respectable 74kW to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. However – when a 'little' more grunt is needed – the driver can spool up the Beetle’s rear-mounted turbine to 26,000rpm, and launch past the traffic with an extra 1006kW at their disposal.

2020 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport long-term review: The family test

The Genesis passed the street litmus test with flying colours. Random kids walking down the road came in for a closer look, clearly enamoured with the shape of this Korean sedan. Pushing a pram, dad had a good look also with a quizzical gaze at the badge.

2020 Nissan Navara N-Trek Warrior long-term review: Farewell

Spend any amount of time with the current Nissan Navara – especially in N-Trek Warrior guise – and it’s fair to say that Nissan’s dual-cab doesn’t get the respect it deserves. While there’s been plenty of positive response to the Warrior treatment, much of the fanfare still surrounds the Ranger, HiLux and now new to the segment D-Max and BT-50.

Around the tracks: A Mercedes-Benz GLA gets lost on a race track

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? A few weeks back, we wrote about a Mini Cooper getting lost and landing itself in the midst of a drag race at Brazil's Interlagos circuit.

Volkswagen ID.6 due in 2023 with 700km range – report

Volkswagen's ID electric vehicle (EV) range could be led by a Passat-sized sedan and wagon duo in the coming years, according to a new report. British publication Autocar – citing information from Volkswagen head of research and development, Frank Welsch – claims the German brand will launch the ID.6 sedan and wagon in 2023, styled as production versions of the ID Vizzion and ID Space Vizzion concepts.

Electric Range Rover: Iconic off-roader gets modern tech

Fancy a classic Range Rover with electric power? Start saving… because it isn’t going to be cheap. Lunaz, based in Silverstone, England, is set to start production of electric, classic Ranger Rovers, with a starting price of £245,000 (AU$431,000).

Trio of Aston Martin executives set to revive Bizzarrini

London-based luxury car retailer Pegasus Brands is planning to revive Italian sports car marque Bizzarrini. Bizzarrini was founded in 1964 in Livorno, Italy, by ex-Ferrari development boss, Giotto Bizzarrini. The brand ceased operations in 1969. Over a short five-year life span, the brand manufactured approximately 140 cars. It also had success on track, with an entry at the 1965 Sebring 12 hour event winning it class.

2020 Honda Accord VTi-LX petrol review

If you ever want to truly test the ride comfort of a car, get someone who’s recently had abdominal surgery to ride in the passenger seat. During my week with the 2020 Honda Accord VTi-LX, I had to drive a family member home from the hospital following an emergency appendix removal, and let’s just say it was highly unpleasant for the both of us.

2021 Tesla Model 3 lands in Australia with longer range, subtle styling changes

The Tesla Model 3 electric car has had its first update since the model went on sale in the US in 2017 and in Australia in 2019. The main external differences are black door handles, window strips and other highlights, rather than chrome. There are two new wheel designs, and supplier Hankook has developed a lower friction tyre. There are still three models in the Tesla Model 3 range, but Tesla claims they can now drive further on a single charge.

AMG to supply Aston Martin with bespoke powertrains – report

Aston Martin is set to receive bespoke engines from its powertrain partner, Mercedes-AMG. Speaking at a recent event, Aston Martin Chairman Lawrence Stroll said: "Our current AMG engines are just that – AMG engines in an Aston,” reports British publication Autocar. "With this new deal, we will have bespoke AMG engines for Aston with different outputs, torque characteristics etc. They’ll still be AMG components but bespoke manufactured in Germany."

The story of the first car in history to hit 100km/h... and it was electric

Camille Jenatzy isn’t a household name today, a shame really, as the Belgian race car driver is etched into the automotive record books as the first person drive a car in excess of 100km/h, in the process setting a world land speed record. What’s more, he did it an electric car, one that he built himself. Today, 100km/h is merely scratching the surface of most cars’ capabilities but in 1899, those types of speeds were unthinkable, certainly from that new-fangled invention, the automobile.

Ferrari CEO quits due to personal coronavirus battle – report

Ferrari has announced Louis Camilleri has stepped down as CEO with immediate effect. The statement from Ferrari cited 'personal reasons' for the shock decision, but The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Mr Camilleri had been recently hospitalised with COVID-19. Executive Chairman John Elkann will act as interim CEO while the company's Board of Directors chooses Mr Camilleri's successor.

Volkswagen, Bill Gates backing new battery technology with ultra-fast charging

While Tesla and Porsche are the current benchmarks for recharging electric cars in record time, a new technology backed by German car giant Volkswagen and tech guru Bill gates claims to take things to the next level. QuantumScape, a American company based in San Jose California, is developing a new solid-state battery that promises to slash charging times while also increase energy density, which can improve electric vehicle range.

Subaru WRX STI hits 10,000 sales in Australia

The Subaru WRX STI has passed the 10,000-unit sales milestone in Australia, the brand's local arm has today announced. The 10,000th example was purchased by Bradley McManus of Clandulla, NSW, who took delivery of his bewinged, rally-inspired all-wheel-drive hero from Trivett Subaru in Parramatta, NSW.

2021 Hyundai Palisade price and specs: Flagship SUV arrives

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is due to land in Australia in the new year, positioned as a large SUV with more agreeable on-road driving dynamics and the convenience of up to eight seats. Hyundai will give buyers the choice of two trim levels: the eight-seater Palisade (no badge), priced from $60,000 plus on-road costs, and the range-topping Palisade Highlander, available with either seven or eight seats and priced from $71,000 plus on-road costs.

2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 teased, early 2021 debut confirmed

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric vehicle has been teased overnight. While the 30-second video (bottom of story) released by the Korean carmaker doesn't provide a glimpse at the Ioniq 5 itself, it confirms an 'early 2021' unveiling date for the EV, with some overseas rumours pointing to the covers coming off in full in January. The video focuses on three "key differentiators" offered with the upcoming Hyundai EV, each representing a specific feature.

Video: 2021 Mazda MX-30 walkaround – Australia confirmed!

Mazda has confirmed its new MX-30 SUV will come to Australia in 2021, arriving first in mild-hybrid petrol-electric form and then full-electric later. Full story here.

2021 Mazda MX-30 coming to Australia: Electric and mild-hybrid confirmed

The 2021 Mazda MX-30 has officially been confirmed for an Australian launch, with both the all-electric and mild-hybrid variants set to arrive in 2021. The MX-30 marks Mazda's first-ever, mass-production electric car, having debuted at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show and launched in production form in overseas markets early in 2020.

2021 Mini Countryman Boardwalk revealed, Australian arrival on the cards

The 2021 Mini Countryman Boardwalk special edition has been unveiled – however, an Australian launch remains officially unconfirmed. Limited to just 325 examples in the UK, the Countryman Boardwalk can be differentiated from the Cooper or Cooper S variants on which it's based primarily by its Deep Laguna Blue Metallic paint, initially developed for the Mini Convertible Sidewalk special edition unveiled earlier this year.

2021 Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid detailed for Europe, no plans for Australia ... for now

Further details of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid (PHEV) have been revealed in Europe overnight, however plans for Australia are yet to be announced. As with other plug-in hybrid vehicles, the PHEV version of the 2021 Hyundai Tucson is able to use only its electric motor for up to 50km in ideal conditions (and with a full charge) before the petrol engine takes over.

Armoured Ford Ranger and Everest: From workhorse to warhorse

You won’t find them in the pages of a glossy dealership brochure, nor listed on the Ford Australia website, but it turns out the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest come in a range of ‘security vehicles’ specifications. In the same way high-powered political officials can get themselves into ballistics-rated BMW X5s and sniper-proof Mercedes-Benz S-Classes, tradies living secret lives as undercover agents can bulk up their protection in a Ranger or Everest.

2021 Volkswagen Touareg 310TDI V8 review: Australian first drive

How do you make a good thing better? You slap a powerful V8 in it, of course. The 2021 Volkswagen Touareg range is now headlined by the V8 TDI R-Line, which along with plenty of technology inside and out, has a very special powertrain. Joined by new 170TDI and 210TDI Euro 6-compliant V6 diesel engines, they replace the previous 190TDI engine offering, which is only compliant with Euro 5 emissions, and was used to hasten the new Touareg’s arrival in Australia.

Audi SQ5 TDI special edition review

The Q5 is Audi's most popular vehicle line in Australia. Another fun fact, every third Q5 was an SQ5 TDI, when it was last available. Those who wanted a slice of efficient SUV performance were drawn to its characteristics. When the original launched in 2013, it was alone in what it offered. Performance SUVs were still in their infancy, let alone featuring a high-performance diesel engine.

My first Porsche, and why a 718 is better than a 911

Halfway through a week-long loan of a Porsche 718 Spyder, the penny dropped. To be specific, it happened after a long drive. There I was, sitting at a café, wistfully admiring its beauty, unlike my usual self. What happened? The Porsche vying for my attention was neither a 911 nor a GT-series car. Just a 718, in fact. It felt funny, as I'd recently accepted 911s were a must when it came to buying a Porsche. Why recently?

Video: 2021 BMW 4 Series Australian first drive review

The experiment worked. BMW’s attempt to separate the 4 Series range from the 3 Series by, well, calling it the 4 Series, has been successful enough to warrant a second generation.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 review: Australian first drive

Performance SUVs have become the apex predator of a once sensible segment. Melding the practical usability of a wagon with the performance and handling characteristics of a hot-hatch has seen a species evolve, that as a package, often sits deservedly at the top of the food chain. But just as in nature, not all beasts are created equal. Occasionally one may argue that even a highly evolved animal might have just been a step too far. Yes Platypus, I’m talking about you.

2021 Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro review: Australian track drive

As light rain starts to bead across the windscreen of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro, I’m forced to momentarily divert my attention away from maintaining the optimal entry speed for turn one of the Phillip Island Grand Prix racetrack. Hard not to question if the Pro in the car's name is, despite my position behind the thick-rimmed steering wheel, a little ambitious for my level of bravery on a fast and soon-to-be damp circuit.

2021 Mazda MX-5 price and specs: Updated sports car gains track-oriented GT RS variant

The 2021 Mazda MX-5 has received a raft of minor updates for the new year, with the first examples reaching showrooms in January 2021. Headlining the updates is the addition of a new, flagship GT RS variant (pictured above and below), offering an array of mechanical tweaks to sharpen the two-seater's driving experience, for a $1000 premium over their standard MX-5 Roadster GT and RF GT equivalents.

2021 BMW iX electric SUV revealed – UPDATE: Online reservations open for Australia

UPDATE, December 10, 2020: Online pre-orders have opened for the BMW iX in Australia, ahead of a local launch slated for the fourth quarter of 2021. Buyers interested in the upcoming electric SUV can place a $500 deposit via the BMW Shop from 1pm AEDT today, with the customer's preferred interior and exterior specification to be confirmed with their preferred dealer once full pricing and equipment details are announced in mid-2021.

2021 Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid fails emergency swerve test

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has failed an emergency swerve-and-avoid “moose test" by Swedish motoring magazine Teknikens Värld. The experiment – which tests a vehicle's ability to safely avoid a hazard, such as a moose – has been standardised since the late 1990s, and requires a car to swerve between cones at incrementally higher speeds without skidding out of control.

Land Rover Defender scores top safety rating despite no centre airbag

The 2020 Land Rover Defender has been awarded a five-star safety rating under the latest evaluation conditions – the first vehicle to do so without a centre airbag. The new-generation Defender is also the first adept off-road SUV to receive a five-star score since the new test conditions were introduced this year.

2021 Kia Sorento earns five-star ANCAP safety rating

The 2021 Kia Sorento has been awarded a five-star safety rating by Australian crash-test body ANCAP – however, there's a catch. The maximum five-star score applies only to 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, all-wheel-drive variants of the Sorento, with front-wheel-drive, 3.5-litre petrol V6 models going unrated without a safety score. The discrepancy can likely be attributed to the fact the crash testing was conducted by ANCAP's European equivalent, Euro NCAP.

Zoox autonomous car leaks online ahead of worldwide launch

California-based autonomous tech developer Zoox is preparing to unveil its first driverless car next week, however it appears the cat is already out of the bag. The all-electric vehicle – which CarAdvice understands will use LiDAR technology to navigate obstacles and be capable of bi-directional travel thanks to its symmetrical design – was snapped outside the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco over the weekend.

2020 Hyundai Tucson Active X review

With 2020 drawing to a close and a new model looming, Hyundai is clearing its remaining 2020 Tucson stock with some sharp deals. Our tester, a 2020 Hyundai Tucson Active X, is currently advertised at $34,990 drive-away with a six-speed automatic gearbox, which is less, even, than the regular price before on-road costs (usually $35,140 plus on-road costs).

Video: VicRoads rego transfer goes online!

Sponsored by VicRoads If you're in Victoria and you've ever had to transfer the registration of a car into or out of your name, you know it can be a time-consuming process. Thankfully, VicRoads has introduced a new online process to dramatically speed things up. Here's what you need to know, and you can read more about the process here.

Used car listings are drying up as demand soars

Listings for used cars in Australia have recorded a marked year-on-year decline, while prices are heading in the opposite direction, breaking records thanks to a fall in supply across the board. According to recent data from JP Morgan, overall listings at Carsales for the second half of 2020 were down 20.5 per cent year-on-year, with private listings in particular dropping 45.7 per cent in the second half of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.

Kia's sales up worldwide, but market share dips slightly in Australia

Kia registered 256,019 new car sales internationally during the month of November, up 2.0 per cent from this time last year despite the continuing coronavirus pandemic. Australia accounted for 2.1 per cent of these sales, with the Korean brand capturing 5.8 per cent of the local market. This is down 0.3 per cent, from a market share of 6.1 per cent in Australia during November, 2019.

2019-20 Land Rover Discovery Sport, Range Rover Evoque mild-hybrids recalled for 48V system fault

Jaguar Land Rover Australia has issued a recall on 1729 examples of its Land Rover Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque mild-hybrid models, citing a potential fault with the 48-volt electrical system. The affected vehicles were sold between 25 May, 2018 and 2 October, 2020 (model years 2019-2020).

2020 Suzuki Swift Series II GL Navigator review

Cheap and cheerful city cars still have a place in this world, an antidote to the ever-increasing presence of SUVs of all types on our roads. Nothing exemplifies this more than the Suzuki Swift, a mainstay of the light-car segment since 1983. The Swift remains the Japanese brand’s second-best seller, trumped only, ironically, by an SUV – the Suzuki Vitara.

Volvo Australia to electrify range: Hybrid and electric only from 2021, diesels axed

The entire Volvo model line-up in Australia will be electrified from the second half of 2021, the company has today confirmed. A spokesperson for Swedish brand's local arm told CarAdvice today an array of mild-hybrid petrol engines will be introduced Down Under in July 2021, coinciding with the launch of its 2022 range range in showrooms.

2023 Volkswagen Amarok imagined – and what we know so far

The 2023 Volkswagen Amarok ute has been reimagined by CarAdvice’s resident Photoshop guru Theophilus Chin, who has created an artist impression of what the new model could look like – based on the only design sketch released by the German car giant so far. As reported earlier, the second-generation Volkswagen Amarok will be a twin under the skin to the next-generation Ford Ranger, after a commercial vehicles partnership was forged between both brands.

2021 Jaguar F-Type Heritage 60 Edition price and specs

The 2021 Jaguar F-Type Heritage 60 Edition has been officially unveiled, a special-edition model built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Jaguar's iconic E-Type sports car. Just 60 examples (fittingly) of the limited-run F-Type coupe and convertibles will be produced, with five coupes locked in for an Australian arrival, indicatively priced from $330,000 before on-road costs.

Ineos Grenadier: Land Rover Defender-inspired 4WD will be made in France

The modern-day version of the original Land Rover Defender – the Ineos Grenadier – has changed its manufacturing plans, but is still on target for its global debut in early 2022. Ineos Automotive has finalised its acquisition of Daimler's 'Smartville' production facility in France, for building the upcoming Grenadier off-roader.

2021 Nissan Patrol facelift unveiled – UPDATE: Australian arrival ruled out

The 2021 Nissan Armada (as the Nissan Patrol is known in the US) has been unveiled – however, the brand's Australian arm has confirmed the updates won't be coming Down Under. The model-year-2021 facelift revealed in the US overnight brings the Armada closer in line with the facelifted Patrol introduced in Australia and other markets in late 2019 – however, there are some notable differences.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander: First images leak online

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander has been revealed ahead of schedule, with leaked images of the vehicle emerging online. The photos, posted on Instagram account @allcarnews, show the Mitsubishi SUV completely undisguised, with the account claiming the Outlander was snapped while sitting in an open car park.

Porsche Australia to unveil 70th anniversary special edition in 2021

Porsche Cars Australia has confirmed the arrival of a new, Australia-only special edition model in 2021, intended to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the brand's presence Down Under. Few details of the limited-edition model have been confirmed, with the brand's local division merely stating it will be finished in Fish Silver Grey Metallic, a new colour developed by Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and in collaboration with the 'Style Porsche' design team.

2021 BMW 4 Series review: Australian first drive

The experiment worked. BMW’s attempt to separate the 4 Series range from the 3 Series by, well, calling it the 4 Series, has been successful enough to warrant a second generation. The 2021 BMW 4 Series is still largely 3 Series based, but since every BMW from the 3 Series up uses a modular architecture, you could argue that every car in the range is based on a 3 Series.

Honda S2000 may return with turbocharged Type R engine – report

The Honda S2000 roadster may be set to make a return in 2024. According to Forbes magazine, a source close to Honda has revealed company decision makers are considering bringing the cult car back for its 25th anniversary. As imagined by CarAdvice contributor Alex Misoyannis (shown at the top of this story), the new model is expected to offer sharper, more modern styling, while retaining the long-bonnet shape of the original car.

2021 Mazda CX-5 and CX-8 receive mid-life updates

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 and CX-8 have been updated in Japan, with a raft of small changes applied across the two models. Firstly, Mazda has given the 2.2-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder engine in the CX-5 gets a minor power bump, from 140kW to 147kW. Torque is unchanged at 450Nm, but throttle response and transmission changes are said to be improved over the current model.

2021 Audi S4 Avant review: Australian first drive

Audi fast wagons are a thing. It all started with the original Audi RS 2 Avant. This was a Porsche-built, turbocharged estate car that warped perceptions for good. Even to this day, Audi continues with the same idea. After the RS 2 came a string of RS 4 tourers, and this – the 2021 Audi S4 Avant. The facelifted Audi S4 range has arrived in Australia, and the brand invited us along for a quick sample of its latest performance wagon.

2021 Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition unveiled

The 2021 Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition has been unveiled. Developed as a collaboration between Aston Martin's Q personalisation division and Scottish whisky distillery Bowmore, just 18 examples of the special-edition DBX will be built, and can be differentiated by a range of specific design touches.

Toyota, Lexus all-electric SUVs teased, co-developed with Subaru

Toyota has teased the profile of its upcoming fully-electric SUV, together with its Lexus cousin. Based on the company's modular e-TNGA platform (short for electric 'Toyota New Global Architecture'), the SUV will be the first of a series of electric vehicles (EVs) expected to be unveiled over the coming months and years.

VW Amarok TDV6 Ultimate name changed to Aventura

The Volkswagen Amarok TDV6 Ultimate has adopted the name used on European flagship models – Aventura – and gained some extra equipment while receiving a modest price cut. The 2021 VW Amarok TDV6 Aventura will start from $72,490 plus on-road costs – pending any special drive-away offers – which is a price cut of $300 compared to the previous Ultimate edition which came out of Germany. Extra equipment now includes a moulded styling bar or “sail plane” between the rear window and the ute tub.

2021 Genesis GV70 detailed: Turbocharged engines, advanced safety confirmed for luxury SUV

Further details of the 2021 Genesis GV70 have been handed down today, confirming the Korean mid-size luxury SUV's engine line-up and active safety suite. Three engines will be offered by Genesis, for a line-up identical to the larger G80 sedan: a 280kW/530Nm 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6, a 224kW/422Nm 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, and a 155kW/441Nm 2.2-litre twin-turbo diesel four-cylinder.

Cheap cars on Facebook: Scams prompt new warnings

Experts have issued fresh warnings over used-car scams on Facebook and other social media channels, as the latest figures show a sharp rise in the number of consumers caught out by bogus marketplace ads – placed by people with fake identities – for vehicles that don’t exist. The coronavirus crisis has pushed up used-car prices as commuters try to avoid public transport. However, this has led to an increase in bogus used-car ads on social media channels such as Facebook Marketplace.

2020 Mazda CX-30 long-term review: Farewell

I think it’s fair to say Mazda’s most recent SUV addition has had a good year. Straight out of the blocks as a brand-new model, the CX-30 has shifted just under 8000 units so far in 2020. Sure, it’s not as impressive as the smaller CX-3’s first year of sales (12,656 for calendar-year 2015), and it hasn’t been enough to change the top order of Mazda’s volume sellers (year-to-date, CX-5 at 19,919, Mazda 3 at 13,344 and CX-3 at 12,620).

2021 Kia Stinger price and specs

Pricing and specifications have been announced for the facelifted 2021 Kia Stinger, with first examples already available in local showrooms. First unveiled in August, the mid-life facelift for the Kia's flagship performance liftback adds a raft of new interior and safety technologies, tweaked exterior styling and a lightly-revised engine line-up. However, it comes at a cost, with prices up across the four-strong Stinger range.

2021 Nissan Qashqai interior teased: Small SUV to score big tech upgrade

The upcoming 2021 Nissan Qashqai's interior has been teased, previewing an revamped cabin with significantly upgraded levels of technology compared with its predecessor. Shadowy teaser images released by the Japanese brand reveal a redesigned interior layout, complemented by an overhauled suite of cabin technologies.

2021 Audi A3 45 TFSI e unveiled

The 2021 Audi A3 45 TFSI e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has been officially revealed. The A3 45 TFSI e shares its mechanicals with the related, high-riding Q3 and Q3 Sportback PHEVs unveiled mere hours ago, mating a 110kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with an 80kW/330Nm electric motor for combined outputs of 180kW of power and 400Nm of torque.

2021 Toyota HiLux Rugged X and Rogue delayed until January

The 2021 Toyota HiLux Rugged X and Rogue won’t be available for customer deliveries until January even though demonstrator models have begun arriving in dealerships across Australia. Both models were meant to be on sale by now, however a chronic production bottleneck at the Melbourne conversion facility – caused by extended lockdowns in Victoria during the coronavirus crisis – has prompted the delay.

2021 Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 and California here soon

The 2021 Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 van range is beginning to arrive in Australian showrooms with certain models in limited numbers – ahead of the arrival of the complete line-up by the end of January. And the first shipments of the new-generation VW Transporter 6.1 California camper are due in early 2021, just in time for the summer holidays – as a record number of Australians plan to holiday at home.

The iconic Lamborghini Diablo turns 30

Ready to feel old? Well some of us at CarAdvice certainly do, now that we’ve been reminded the incredible Lamborghini Diablo has just turned 30. They say time passes quickly, but it’s hard to believe one of the most iconic supercars of all time has been with us since January 1990.

2022 Jaguar I-Pace update leaked in patent filings

Patent filings for the updated 2022 Jaguar I-Pace have emerged, hinting at yet another update for the electric SUV. After receiving a model-year-2021 update in June 2020 – focusing primarily on technology and charging updates, with styling changes being minimal – American publication Motor Trend has uncovered a set of international patent filings for a lightly-revised I-Pace, filed by Jaguar in January 2019, and officially approved on December 1, 2020.

2020 Ford Puma review

The Blue Oval has taken huge strides in the light – or compact – SUV segment with its all-new 2020 Ford Puma. As a replacement for the unloved Ford EcoBoost, the Puma hasn’t exactly got big boots to fill. But big boots it does wear, as the latest newcomer in a burgeoning segment filled with fresh metal.

Mercedes-Benz celebrates 400,000 G-Wagen production milestone

The iconic slab-sided Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen 4WD (now just called the G-Class) has ticked over a 400,000 unit production milestone in its 41st year of manufacture. Built at the Magna Steyr factory in Graz, Austria since 1979, the ‘G has served civilian, military and government needs across the globe, and on all manner of terrain, without ever deviating far from its original design.

2021 Ram 1500 TRX supercharged V8 is go for Australia!

The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX supercharged V8 – one of the world’s fastest and most powerful pick-ups – is coming to Australia, initially as a limited production run from next year. The official importer, Ram Trucks Australia, is in the preliminary stages of an engineering program ahead of showroom arrivals in 2021.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan model range outlined, expected to be top-selling VW next year

The Volkswagen Tiguan SUV is expected to overtake the Golf hatchback in Australia next year – bringing the models into line with their new global sales rankings – once the updated version arrives in local showrooms. The Tiguan SUV almost outsold the Golf in Australia this year, but its sales surge was blunted by production interruptions caused by COVID-19. So far this year, Volkswagen Australia has sold 9364 Golf hatchbacks versus 8567 Tiguan SUVs.

2021 BMW X7 Dark Shadow Edition revealed – UPDATE: Australian pricing confirmed, arrives March 2021

UPDATE, December 7, 2020: BMW Australia has at last confirmed the X7 Dark Shadow Edition for our shores. Just 10 examples will offered locally, available in a choice of two powertrains: the 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline-six-powered xDrive30d, or the 390kW/750Nm 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8-powered M50i. Five of each engine choice will be offered, priced from $188,900 drive-away in xDrive30d M Sport guise, and $215,900 drive-away in M50i form.

Toyota LandCruiser Horizon returns as final special edition for 200 Series

The Toyota LandCruiser 200 Series Horizon will return to Australian showrooms in early 2021 – as a fitting final edition before the next-generation 300 Series goes on sale about mid-year. Toyota dealers have been advised the LandCruiser 200 Series Horizon edition will go into production at the start of 2021. It is unclear if the Horizon edition will be identical to the limited edition released earlier this year (pictured above and below) or come with subtle changes for 2021.

Toyota Camry V6 dead in Australia: axed with 2021 facelift

The Toyota Camry V6 will be axed early next year, following in the tyre tracks of the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon – and marking an end to the affordable six-cylinder sedan era. Toyota dealers in Australia have been advised the Camry V6 will be discontinued when the facelift model arrives in the first half of next year. The last production run for the Toyota Camry V6 out of Japan will be in January.

Automotive Icons: 1980 Renault 5 Turbo

As the Toyota GR Yaris grumbled its way into the CarAdvice garage, it immediately triggered a memory of another time, another fat, little, three-door hatchback with a world rallying background. In the mid-1970s, turbocharging was still pretty nascent technology, but one manufacturer was at the forefront of it, championing blown induction even as the rest of the automotive world chortled impolitely behind their backs.

News recap: best stories from the week that was ICYMI

After 31 months in a row of year-on-year sales decline – the longest slump since the Global Financial Crisis of a decade ago – November finally saw a market recovery as Australia came out of COVID-19 lockdowns. Sales went up for the first time in two-and-a-half years. The industry is still cautious, however, because many of the cars delivered in November were orders carried over from previous months, during the peak of the lockdown.