Jumat, 30 April 2021

If I ran Ford Australia ... How to bring Explorer, F-150, and Bronco here

"If I ran the company..." The CarAdvice team play 'fantasy football' with the automotive industry and take turns in the top seat of the big brands. What would we do if we ran the show? This time, Josh heads to Michigan in the USA to tackle the big blue oval... My plan for Ford Australia seems straightforward, but Dearborn may think otherwise. Here’s hoping someone at Ford’s global head office can spare a minute to read our 'road map' of the brand's Australian future.

Around the tracks: Toyota proves hydrogen cars can sound good

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?

Renault ceases development of new diesel engines – report

French car manufacturer Renault has confirmed that it will no longer invest in the development of all-new diesel engines. According to a report from Automotive News Europe, Renault CEO Luca de Meo told shareholders that it will instead adapt existing powertrains for its "last generation" of diesel powered vehicles.

2019 Nissan Juke recalled for airbag deployment fault

Nissan Australia has recalled 56 examples of its Juke small SUV, citing a potential fault with the airbag deployment system. The affected vehicles were sold between 31 July 2019 and 25 November 2020, but manufactured between April 2019 and May 2019.

2021 Mazda MX-5 GT RS review

Any new iteration of a Mazda MX-5 is a cause for attention and celebration, and in the case of the 2021 Mazda MX-5 GT RS that’s even more relevant. The way the automotive world is moving, there’s a very real chance that cars like the MX-5, as we know it, won’t exist for much longer.

MG Cyberster: Electric sports car confirmed for production, Australian deliveries on the cards

The MG Cyberster electric sports car – which was unveiled as a concept earlier this month at the Shanghai motor show – will go into production for both left- and right-hand drive markets, a spokesperson for the Chinese manufacturer in Australia has confirmed to CarAdvice. Further, the spokesperson suggested the two-seater could be offered locally: "As part of our Electric For Everyone strategy, MG Australia will now examine the Cyberster's potential for the Australian and New Zealand markets."

Hennessey: ‘Too much horsepower is never enough’

When John Hennessey wanted to compete in the Pike’s Peak Hill Climb in 1991, he did what every diehard car nut has done since the invention of the motor car – he modified his daily drive Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 into something else altogether.

Kamis, 29 April 2021

2021 Kia Carnival long-term review: Introduction

I never thought I’d catch myself saying this, but purple is one hell of a colour for the 2021 Kia Carnival. But technically, I'm wrong. I was surprised to find out that this hue is actually called Deep Chroma Blue, but it strikes me as more of a deep purple in person. It does change a bit in different light, and has loads of metallic flecks in it. MORE: 2021 Kia Carnival pricing and specs

BMW and Mercedes remove advanced safety tech amid semiconductor shortage, mainstream brands unaffected for now

Advanced safety technology on certain examples of BMW and Mercedes-Benz cars destined for Australia have been deleted from the next batch of factory orders out of Germany. Customers who placed orders for vehicles equipped with the affected technology will have a portion of their purchase price refunded, according to confidential dealer bulletins seen by CarAdvice.

2021 Formula One Portuguese Grand Prix: Race preview

There's lots to play for as Formula One heads to Portugal for Round 3 of the 2021 F1 season. Last time out in Imola heavy rain brought chaos as Max Verstappen reigned supreme in his 11th F1 career win. The championship is now down to one point in a brilliant battle between Verstappen and seven-time world champion, Sir Lewis Hamilton.

Ford Escape plug-in hybrid delayed to 2022, but more electric models are in the works for Australia

The Ford Escape plug-in hybrid’s showroom debut has been pushed back to early next year, however its arrival will likely start the local rollout of other Ford electric cars. Ford Australia originally planned to launch the Ford Escape PHEV (which stands for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) by the end of this year but delays throughout the COVID-19 pandemic have pushed back its arrival.

2021 Kia Carnival scores five stars for safety, second vehicle without centre airbag to earn top marks

The 2021 Kia Carnival has earned a five-star safety rating against tough new testing protocols – and it scored top marks even without a centre airbag between the front seats. For 2020 and beyond, the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) and its European affiliate raised the bar on side impact crash protection and advanced safety aids.

2021 Hyundai Tucson price and specs: New mid-size SUV arrives with advanced tech, price rises

UPDATE, 30 April 2021: Hyundai Australia has confirmed pricing for the entire Tucson range, including the 2.0-litre diesel variants, and the N Line Option Pack. The story has been updated with the new information. The 2021 Hyundai Tucson will be offered in a choice of three variants and three engines when it goes on sale in Australia in April 2021 – all offering the option of a sporty N Line styling package.

The 2021 Drive Car of the Year – Overall winner

2021 and 2021 have been difficult years for the new car market both domestically and overseas. And yet, sales in Australia have remained strong, with buyers still looking to secure their next new car and manufacturers have kept their end of the bargain releasing a range of high-quality new models into the Australian market.

Level Three autonomous cars to be legal on UK roads by the end of 2021

Self-driving (autonomous) vehicles are set to be legal on UK roads by the end of the year, the British government has confirmed. The UK’s Department of Transport stated vehicles with automated lane-keeping systems (ALKS) would be the first in the country to be legalised for hands-free driving at speeds up to 60km/h (37mph). The move to allow vehicles with autonomous driving capabilities to drive legally on British roads was confirmed by the UK’s Transport Minister, Rachel Maclean MP.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Small Luxury SUV

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Small Luxury SUV Many Australian buyers are making their first foray into the luxury market via an SUV now rather than a small sedan or hatchback. As such, every luxury manufacturer seemingly wants to get in on the action.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Upper Large SUV

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Upper Large SUV In the current climate of closed borders and no international holidays, the great Australian road trip has made a heroic comeback. Both the Nissan Patrol and Toyota LandCruiser have been household four-wheel-drive nameplates for decades, but the last twelve months has seen huge spikes in demand for those big Japanese SUVs.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Large SUV

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Large SUV Given Australia’s penchant for SUVs, the large sub-$70K segment is a fierce battleground. Alongside the promise of roominess and fantastic cargo areas, there’s also the option of seven seats – as all three of our finalists have. Whilst not as practical as the simple van-styled people mover they replace, Large SUVs do offer more as a whole. Some are great off-road, and some are created with performance in mind.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Medium SUV

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Medium SUV Here’s how four of the best contenders compared in our annual Drive Car of the Year test. You can see it in the traffic, our love affair with high-riding wagons we call SUVs. They’ve become Australia’s new family cars, although fleets have also begun adopting their practicality. It’s easy to see the appeal: tall driving position, a commanding view of the road ahead, a roomy and comfortable cabin, as well as a large cargo hold.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Small SUV

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Small SUV Australia's Small SUV class is arguably one of the toughest segments in the new-car market, with nearly a dozen contenders competing for attention. Some models will suit certain buyer needs more so than others. Our job is to determine which ones have the broadest ability and do the most to move the category forward.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Light SUV

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Light SUV Such is the proliferation of compact SUVs these days that official industry sales split them into two camps: Light SUV and Small SUV. And for 2021, Drive Car of the Year has done the same.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best People Mover

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best People Mover The Kia Carnival has won this segment for the past two years, but we couldn’t call ourselves good automotive journalists if we didn’t do an annual check-up on how the class-leader stacks up against its peers. After not much debate but with plenty of seats for us all, the judging team whittled the contender list down to three.

2021 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 PDK review

The stopwatch doesn’t fib. The new dual-clutch PDK transmission variant of the crazily competent Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 is a demonstrably faster car than its quick-enough manual sibling to 100km/h, or around a race track, or jinking up a snaky hill climb, or belting through a Targa rally stage.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Large Luxury Car

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Large Luxury Car They once ruled the driveways and roads of Australia’s wealthiest postcodes, a four-wheeled sign you had made it in life. Large sedans wearing badges, predominantly from Germany, sometimes England, oozed prestige, with big powerful engines matched only by large, comfortable interiors.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Medium Luxury Car

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Medium Luxury Car It must be daunting launching an all-new brand into a segment that has long been dominated by European carmakers. But the Genesis G70 was up for the fight, challenging the established Europeans in a segment long dominated by the Big Three – BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Medium-to-Large Car

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Medium to Large Car There’s still a lot to be said about a family sedan, especially one with electric assistance. Australia’s Medium and large car decline has nothing to do with the quality of the cars in the segment. All three contenders stood up against themselves, and even reminded judges of the flaws that some trendy SUVs inherently have.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Small Luxury Car

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Small Luxury Car Overall, small cars under $40K are a luxury Australia’s seldom indulge in. It makes up around 15 per cent of the wider small car category, which overall is less than four per cent of the total market. Despite its petite size, the segment is carving out more share than before. With premium brands looking to conquest against upper mainstream products, some buyers are deciding to sacrifice space and performance – for a badge.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best Small Car

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best Small Car It’s no secret small car sales have slowed as buyers have shifted towards SUVs of all shapes and sizes, however, there is still a core group of vehicles that make a compelling case to consider a hatchback. Not everyone wants or needs a small SUV, instead opting for more affordable – but just as practical – small hatchbacks. There are close to two dozen choices in the small-car class, to suit all tastes and budgets.

2021 Drive Car of the Year – Best City Car

Drive Car of the Year 2021 - Best City Car The city-car segment took the second-biggest sales hit in 2020 – down nearly 40 per cent – though it remains the go-to vehicle type for buyers looking for some of Australia’s cheapest new cars – including many still priced below $20,000. There was a major new model, too, with the release of the latest-generation Toyota Yaris. There were also updates for the Kia Rio and Suzuki Swift.

Rabu, 28 April 2021

Williams Advanced Engineering and Italdesign unveil new electric vehicle architecture

Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) – a former subsidiary of the Williams Formula One racing team – and Italian design house Italdesign have jointly unveiled a new electric vehicle architecture, claiming it is versatile enough to underpin crossover SUVs, sedans, and high-performance sports cars.

2021 Ford Ranger Raptor X: price rise, racing stripes, and a sports bar, FX4 returns

The Ford Ranger Raptor has gained racing stripes, a sports bar, and black accents inside and out to keep the flagship model looking fresh before the next generation turns up next year, likely with turbo V6 power under the bonnet instead of the current model’s twin-turbo 2.0-litre diesel.

Ford Ranger quietly loses some features in minor tech change as stock tightens

Ford is discreetly pulling equipment off the Ranger – its top-selling model – as it prepares to introduce runout offers later in the year to make way for its next generation pick-up. In the past six months Ford has removed “acoustic” or sound-deadening glass from certain Ranger models. Other items out of view, such as the plastic pocket under the back seat – previously packaged with the spare wheel bottle jack – has also been quietly deleted.

2022 Honda Civic sedan officially revealed, not coming to Australia

The 2022 Honda Civic sedan has been officially revealed in the US. While the new, 11th-generation Civic sedan might be set to reach American showrooms by September 2021, it won’t be coming to Australia, with Honda’s local arm instead opting to focus on the stronger-selling hatchback body style, which is due to be unveiled within the next few months.

Ford Australia still no closer to F-150, Bronco, or Mustang Mach E 

Frustrated Ford fans keen to buy a new F-150 pick-up, the reborn Bronco four-wheel-drive, or the pure electric Mustang Mach E in Australia will need to be patient or consider another car. Ford is no closer to introducing any of its latest iconic vehicles from the US – despite the runaway success of the Ram and Chevrolet pick-ups locally, the Bronco having strong Australian engineering involvement, and the Mustang Mach E being built in right-hand-drive.

2021 Nissan Leaf e+ review

The Nissan Leaf doesn’t get the respect it almost certainly deserves as one of the pioneers in the then-fledgling electric vehicle segment which it made its international debut in 2010. Consider the fact that the Leaf is into its second generation, for instance, while other manufacturers still work to get their first-generation electric vehicles to market.

Protesting Renault factory workers take management team hostage

Angry workers at a Renault factory in northwest France took seven managers hostage overnight for approximately 12 hours. Around 350 workers are continuing to blockade the Fonderie de Bretagne in Brittany, in an attempt to prevent the closure of the foundry that makes car parts for the French car giant. However, the aforementioned hostages were released at approximately 10:30pm local time.

2021 Nissan Leaf price and specs: Long-range E+ joins line-up from $60,490

The 2021 Nissan Leaf electric vehicle range has expanded with the addition of a longer-range E+ variant. Priced from $60,490 before on-road costs, the Leaf E+ justifies its $10,000-plus premium over the standard variant (on sale locally since 2019) with a larger battery, more power, faster charging and, crucially, a longer driving range.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4 GTX revealed: Performance electric SUV outmuscles Golf R

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 GTX has been officially revealed, ahead of its European launch later this year. A high-performance version of Volkswagen’s first electric SUV, the flagship ID.4 is the first in a line of hot GTX-badged ID electric vehicles, offering more power, tweaked styling and sporty interior detailing. Powering the performance SUV is a 77kWh lithium-ion battery, sending power to two electric motors for a combined power output of 220kW.

Final HSV GTSR Maloo ever built listed for sale with near-million-dollar price tag

The final HSV GTSR Maloo ever built has been listed for sale in Western Australia, with an asking price of $958,000. The high-performance ute (wearing build number 600 of 600) is listed by dealer Gardner Autos, which had the car delivered new in 2017.

Ford to launch new European-built small van in 2023, electric version due in 2024

Ford has announced it will commence production of a new 'light commercial vehicle' in 2023, with an all-electric variant to follow in 2024. The identity of the vehicle remains unknown, however Automotive News Europe suggests it will be a replacement for the Transit Courier van sold in Europe, which rides on the previous-generation Fiesta city car's platform, and would celebrate its ninth birthday in 2023 – aligning with Ford's circa-10-year life-cycle for its smaller vans.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 track preview

Ford claims its Mustang Mach 1 is both the "best-handling factory-produced" and "most track capable" Mustang to arrive in Australia. The power behind the bold claims is a raft of up-spec componentry that's been fitted. The majority of these goodies have been pilfered from the Shelby GT350/500 program, and are beyond basic bolt-on modifications. Before we get to the drive, let's quickly understand what's been done and why.

2022 Lotus Evija prototype review

Electrification is rapidly spreading through the car industry, but until now it hasn’t got to the very top. That’s set to change with the 2022 Lotus Evija to become the first EV supercar to reach buyers despite COVID delays.

Ride-sharing giant Lyft sells autonomous tech division to Toyota for $710 million

Lyft – a US ride-sharing company in fierce competition with Uber – has sold its large autonomous vehicle development program to Toyota. The Japanese manufacturer’s research division Woven Planet Holdings reportedly paid US$550 million (AU$710,000) for the program, with an initial US$200 million (AU$250,000) investment preceding a further US$350 million (AU$450,000) over the next five years.

Tamiya Wild One: Legendary RC buggy brought to life by the Little Car Company

Tamiya’s iconic radio-controlled off-road buggy, the Wild One, is making a comeback – as a real-life electric-powered buggy that can be driven by actual people. A collaboration between Tamiya and The Little Car Company, the 8/10th scale Wild One Max is a near full-sized replica of the original 1/10th scale kit first released by Tamiya in 1985. And the best part? If you want to, you can order the Wild One Max in kit form and build it yourself at home, just like the original.

Selasa, 27 April 2021

2021 Aston Martin V12 Speedster gains DBR1 heritage package

The 2021 Aston Martin V12 Speedster will be available in a heritage-inspired DBR1 specification, the brand has announced. All 88 V12 Speedster buyers will have the option of the DBR1 specification, intended to pay homage to Aston Martin's most successful race car (of the same name), which won the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans and an array of other high-profile sports-car races with drivers including Sir Sterling Moss and Caroll Shelby behind the wheel.

2021 Hyundai i30 N due in Australia in June, followed by i20 N, Kona N and i30 Sedan N – UPDATE

UPDATE, 28 April 2021: Hyundai Australia has provided updated launch timing information for its upcoming N performance range. The facelifted i30 N hatch will arrive first, in June 2021, followed by the smaller i20 N and recently-revealed Kona N in the third quarter of the year (July to September inclusive). The all-new i30 Sedan N will launch locally late in the third quarter or early in the fourth, suggesting an Australian arrival around September to November 2021.

Hennessey Mammoth 1000 SUV: Seven-seat Ram 1500 TRX unveiled with 755kW

US muscle and supercar tuner Hennessey has unveiled the 2021 Hennessey Mammoth 1000 SUV, a seven-seat off-roader based on the dune-jumping Ram 1500 TRX performance pick-up. Powering the Mammoth 1000 is the donor Ram 1500 TRX's 6.2-litre supercharged V8, retuned and reworked by Hennessey to develop 755kW (1012hp) and 1314Nm – significant increases over the 'standard' TRX ute's 523kW and 880Nm.

Video: 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Short Wheelbase off-road review

The short-wheelbase Wrangler Rubicon is making a short comeback to Australia in 2021, with only 40 vehicles making up a 100-strong contingent of ‘Recon’ special-edition models.

2022 Rimac C_Two electric hypercar slashes production car quarter-mile record to 8.95 seconds

The 2022 Rimac C­_Two electric hypercar has slashed the production car quarter-mile record, completing the benchmark sprint in just 8.95 seconds – 0.45 seconds quicker than the 1103kW/1600Nm 8.0-litre W16 Bugatti Chiron. It took just 2.42 seconds for the Croatian-built road car to accelerate from 0-100km/h, despite claims from company founder Mate Rimac the motors were only operating at 85 per cent power and launch control had not yet been activated.

2020 Mercedes-Benz A-Class recalled with belt bracket fault

Mercedes-Benz Australia has recalled 19 examples of its A-Class hatchback and sedan in Australia, citing a potential fault with the rear seat’s belt bracket. The affected vehicles were sold between 1 September 2020 and 26 November 2020 (Model Years 2020).

2021 Porsche 911 GT3 review: International drive

In an automotive world seemingly hell-bent on electrification, the fourth-generation Porsche 911 GT3 is a true rarity. Rare, not only because at $369,700 it is well out of financial reach of most admirers. But because after 12 years and three generations as the track day upstart in the 911 line-up, it continues to stick its middle finger up at the very regulations designed to outlaw it, and holding firm to its original race car roots with a naturally aspirated combustion engine.

2021 Targa Tasmania: It’s bloody wonderful but not without its dangers

Make no mistake, these events are not without their risks. Road grip and conditions change with the weather, and occasional nasty surprises can wait around every corner. Unlike the controlled nature of a permanent racing circuit, have a mishap and emergency vehicles may be half-an-hour and 25 km away. Some people crochet as a hobby. Others play tennis. Some do frustrating stuff like hitting a small white ball around until it goes into one of 18 tiny holes.

New Cars: 2021 New Car Calendar, the April update

The year 2020 was one that many would like to forget, and the automotive industry is no exception. Lockdowns and economic slowdowns brought on by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic translated exactly as you'd expect for Australia's new-car sales, with a staggering 48.5 per cent sales decline in April, contributing to an overall market down 13.7 per cent by the end of the year.

2021 Lotus Emira previewed as brand's last petrol-powered sports car

Lotus's first all-new sports car in a decade now has a name: say hello to the 2021 Lotus Emira. The car formerly known only as the 'Type 131' will be tasked with replacing the ageing Elise, Exige and Evora sports cars, and will wear the daunting title of Lotus' last new vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine – with all future models to be electric-only.

Lotus to go all-electric with four new platforms and an SUV

The upcoming 2021 Lotus Emira will be Lotus' last petrol-powered vehicle, with the iconic British sports-car specialist confirming all future models will be all-electric. Announced as part of its 'Driving Tomorrow' strategy conference on Tuesday night, Lotus announced its future model portfolio would centre around four all-new platforms developed by the British brand, though with assistance from the wider Geely automotive group (including Volvo) in Germany, Sweden and China.

Hyundai considering a hydrogen supercar, some future N models will go electric, say executives

Hyundai is working on a hydrogen-powered supercar – however it is yet to get the green light for production. In a conference with international media today, the head honchos of Hyundai’s performance division revealed the company is experimenting with hydrogen power for a supercar – and said some future N models could have pure electric power.

2021 Hyundai Kona N officially revealed after weeks of image leaks, here by October

The 2021 Hyundai Kona N has been unveiled ahead of an Australian showroom arrival within the next six months – about the same time as the pint-sized Hyundai i20 N and updated Hyundai i30 N hot hatches are due, giving Hyundai Australia’s performance arm its broadest range to date. The price of Hyundai’s first high-performance SUV is yet to be revealed, though it is expected to cost close to or in excess of $50,000 by the time it’s in the traffic.

Senin, 26 April 2021

All Renault and Dacia cars will be speed-limited to 180km/h from 2022

All Renault cars will be speed-limited to 180km/h from next year, the French manufacturer has confirmed. The cap will also reportedly apply to cars built by Renault’s budget Romanian subsidiary Dacia (although this is unlikely to inconvenience many people as, even in flagship 2.0-litre guise, the top-selling Duster SUV maxes out at just 181km/h).

E-motorsports set to feature in the Olympic Games

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the inaugural Olympic Virtual Series will include motorsport as part of its push to embrace e-sports under its charter as well as engaging a new, more youthful audience. Scheduled to take place ahead of the Tokyo Olympics later this year, the Olympic Virtual Series (OVS) will encompass five e-sports, with motorsport set to feature alongside baseball, cycling, rowing and sailing.

2021 Maserati Ghibli and Levante F Tributo Special Edition revealed, Australian launch confirmed

The 2021 Maserati Ghibli and Levante F Tributo Special Editions have been unveiled, ahead of an Australian launch in June 2021.

True price of Hyundai Nexo hydrogen cars: Australian fleet trial vehicles cost taxpayers close to $100,000 each

Each Hyundai Nexo hydrogen car being used in Australian fleet trials of the future technology will reportedly cost taxpayers $99,000 over three years – or $2750 per month – which is more than the repayments on most luxury cars. And once the fleet trial ends, the hydrogen vehicles will be returned to Hyundai rather than sold by the government as a used car to recoup some of the cost.

Iconic fuel-guzzler Bugatti gives the strongest indication yet it’s going electric

Bugatti – which is famous for producing high-performance fuel-guzzling hypercars – has given the strongest indication yet it plans to go all-electric in the not-too-distant future.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA recalled with airbag fault

Mercedes-Benz Australia has recalled 13 examples of its GLA SUV in Australia, citing a potential fault with the airbag deployment system. The affected vehicles were sold between 1 June 2020 and 29 October 2020 (Model Year 2020).

2021 Lexus UX250h Luxury review: The hybrid city SUV

Lexus quietly retired the CT200h this year, as production of the long-running Toyota Prius-based premium hatch ended after a decade. It's only natural then that as more Australian buyers gravitate towards SUVs, Lexus should offer a small, city-sized hybrid SUV as a range-opener to the Japanese luxury brand. Having now been established in the line-up for a few years, Lexus has added a number of minor changes to the UX range this year.

New Lotus 'Type 131' sports car to debut on Tuesday

Lotus' first new sports car in over a decade will be unveiled tomorrow, it has been confirmed. A leaked event invite posted to Korean website Autospy confirms the new Lotus sports car, codenamed 'Type 131' will be unveiled in full on Tuesday, 27 April 2021. The leaked image reiterates earlier official teasers from January (shown below) that the new car's headlights will draw inspiration from the all-electric Evija hypercar.

Minggu, 25 April 2021

2021 BYD EA1: Australia’s “sub-$35,000” electric car revealed

EXCLUSIVE New details of the upcoming BYD electric hatchback – which importer Nexport claims will be sold in Australia for “well under $35,000” when it launches later this year – have been revealed exclusively to CarAdvice. The Chinese-built five-door – which was unveiled as the EA1 in China last week, but will be sold locally under a different nameplate – has a range of approximately 500km, according to Nexport founder Luke Todd.

Australia’s third hydrogen-car refuelling station to open within months, in Brisbane

Australia is on the brink of opening its third public refuelling station for hydrogen cars – in Brisbane, following recent openings in Melbourne and Canberra – and a second fleet of Hyundai Nexo vehicles has arrived in Sydney ahead of the next real-world trial of the future tech. Japanese car giant Toyota and South Korean conglomerate Hyundai launched hydrogen-car fleet trails in Australia within days of each other late last month.

2021 Hyundai Tucson price and specs: New mid-size SUV arrives with advanced tech, price rises

UPDATE, 26 April 2021: Pricing for the new 2021 Hyundai Tucson has been released at last, with the new mid-size SUV to start from $34,500 before on-road costs. Our initial story below has been updated to include the new details. The 2021 Hyundai Tucson will be offered in a choice of three variants and three engines when it goes on sale in Australia in April 2021 – all offering the option of a sporty N Line styling package.

Formula E race descends into farce as half the field runs out of charge

The FIA Formula E Championship descended into farce in Valencia, Spain, over the weekend, with around half the field running out of charge before the chequered flag fell. The chaos ensured after several Safety Car periods during the race. Under Formula E regulations, the amount of energy a driver may use is reduced when a Safety Car intervention is needed.

2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series leaked again in clearer detail

The 2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series has leaked once again, ahead of its full global reveal in the coming weeks or months. Following last week's round of leaks, over a dozen images were posted online by Instagram user @shomegranbill on Sunday, with the new photos – understood to have been snapped at a Toyota shipping yard – showcasing the new LandCruiser 300 Series in a number of model variants, from a selection of different angles.

2021 GWM Baja Snake: Shelby distances itself from China's off-road ute

The 2021 GWM Baja Snake ute was developed with no input from Shelby, despite initial reports to the contrary. Unveiled at the 2021 Shanghai motor show last week, GWM's hardcore Baja Snake was purported to have been developed in collaboration with legendary American muscle car tuner Shelby, with input from the US outfit likely centring around the dual-cab's mechanical upgrades.

Video: 2021 Kia Seltos Sport+ AWD Review

The Kia Seltos is edgy, good-looking and packs plenty of features, but can it stand tall in the crowded small-SUV segment?

2021 Ford Ranger FX4 Max review

We know there’s a new Ford Ranger due next year, and we know that as models prepare to dip out, some of the best variants tend to become available. In this case, the 2021 Ford Ranger FX4 Max is an example of the good stuff that surfaces at the end of a run. We’ve seen the FX4 before, as a decal-tuning pack based off the already decent Ranger XLT. This time, though, the FX4 Max is a bit more than just embossed trim and black wheels. Okay, so it has those extras, too.

2022 BMW iX3: Pre-order books open, first deliveries due late 2021

The 2022 BMW iX3 electric SUV is now available to reserve in Australia, ahead of first local deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2021 – though pricing has yet to be announced. Interested buyers can place a $500 deposit on an iX3 via the BMW Shop website, with reservation holders then able to specify their vehicle through their selected BMW dealer later in 2021, ahead of first customer deliveries in the fourth quarter of the year (October to December inclusive).

Alfa Romeo to electrify, as billion-dollar Giorgio architecture abandoned – report

Alfa Romeo has announced it will kill its in-house 'Giorgio' vehicle architecture, due to it never being designed to accommodate electrified powertrains – despite the company spending more than a billion dollars on its development the previous decade.

Zeekr 001 unveiled in Shanghai to spell an end to boring EVs

The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group – perhaps better known simply as Geely – has unveiled a new marque at the Shanghai motor show, positioned to take on a raft of established performance divisions with a range of EVs. Called Zeekr, the new brand joins Geely’s portfolio of brands which already includes Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, Proton and lesser known brands like Lynk & Co, Geometry, and LEVC – the maker of London cabs.

We drive a $47 million 1929 Bentley and its modern-day remake

Here’s proof that history really does repeat itself. Jaguar and Aston Martin might have kicked off the modern trend for ‘continuation’ versions of some of their greatest hits, but Bentley has taken it to an entirely new level by heading much further back in time.

Sabtu, 24 April 2021

2021 Audi A4 35 TFSI review

As far as medium-sized German sedans go, the recently facelifted Audi A4 is the cheapest of the bunch. The entry 35 TFSI model kicks off from $55,900 before on-roads.

Honda to go electric and hydrogen only by 2040, Australia included

Honda has committed to ceasing production of petrol and diesel engines globally by 2040, as part of a new brand-wide electrification strategy. 40 per cent of Honda sales in "all major markets of electrification" will be made up of all-electric (EVs) and hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) by 2030, increasing to 80 per cent in 2035, ahead of the 100 per cent target set for 2040 – though only the lattermost deadline applies globally, with Australia included.

Ora Lightning Cat concept outlines GWM's performance aspirations in Shanghai

The 2021 Shanghai motor show offered its fair share of oddities, and certainly the names of debut models kept Western audiences asking what was in the water at Shanghai. In this instance GWM’s dedicated EV brand, Ora rolled out the Lightning Cat – only to have most of its attention hogged by the endearingly Beetle-like Punk Cat.

2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, GLC and EQC recalled with steering system fault

Mercedes-Benz Australia has recalled 719 examples of its C-Class, GLC, and EQC model variants, citing a fault with the steering control unit. The affected vehicles were sold between 3 February 2020 and 31 July 2021 (model year 2020).

Matchbox toy cars to go carbon-neutral – and its first model is the Tesla Roadster

Mattel, the maker of Matchbox toy cars, has committed to going carbon neutral by 2030, with everything from the toy’s packaging to the toy car itself made from 99 per cent recycled materials, certified carbon-neutral.

Jumat, 23 April 2021

Around the tracks: GMC Hummer EV’s crab walk spied in traffic

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? The 2022 GMC Hummer EV may be a gargantuan thing, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be nimble.

2022 Nissan 400Z review: Virtual drive with Project Cars 3

It’s no secret the previous-generation Nissan 370Z was long in the tooth, having graced Nissan dealerships for a whopping 12 years without substantial updates or facelifts. Nissan’s long lead time from a late 2020 first look at its next-generation Z-car toward a 2022 unveil has us at CarAdvice sitting on the edge of our seats too.

Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 manual review

Take away any of the distractions of the modern world. Strip away the distractions, the real-world realities, and what are you left with – what does your perfect existence entail? For motoring enthusiasts it’s simple, and probably looks a lot like this car, the 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS, complete with screaming naturally aspirated engine mounted in the middle, and a six-speed manual to send power to the rear wheels.

Video: 2020 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport long-term review: Farewell

Six months and over 6000km later, we bid farewell to our G70. What did the team think?

Porsche restoration challenge sees 40 classic Porsches revived to their former glory

In stark contrast to some other manufacturers, Porsche still holds a special place in its heart for its back catalogue of classic cars. That’s why it’s announced a new competition held among its United States dealership network to see which workshop will win the 2021 Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge.

Hongqi brings three very different concepts to the Shanghai motor show

A sports car, a driverless luxury sedan and an ungainly electric vehicle (EV) were all shown on the Hongqi stand at the Shanghai motor show, signalling a significant expansion for the brand. China’s domestic market Hongqi brand, which translates as 'red flag', has traditionally concentrated on its grand flagship sedans, namely retro-styled large cars built around space and comfort for occupants.

Kamis, 22 April 2021

2021 Ford Ranger line-up expanded with new 4x2 XL SPORT variant, range-wide tech and engine upgrades

The 2021 Ford Ranger line-up has been expanded with the introduction of a new 4x2 XL Sport dual cab variant (shown above). Meanwhile, the existing Ranger 4x4 XL Heavy Duty Special Edition has received significant upgrades, adaptive cruise control now comes standard on all Ranger XLT variants, and 4x4 XL models are now available with Ford’s powerful bi-turbo powertrain option for the first time.

2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge long-term review: The road trip

There’s something satisfying about reaching the outskirts of Sydney and seeing a fuel consumption reading of 0.0L/100km. It wasn’t to last, but after around 40km of driving as we set off on our road trip in our long-term 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge, the fact we’d used no fossil fuel was deeply pleasing. A quick recap. Swedish brand Volvo has committed to electrifying its entire rage of vehicles by 2025, offering either full electric or plug-in hybrid variants across its line-up of cars and SUVs.

Elon Musk responds to deadly Texas Tesla crash, as Consumer Reports reveals how Autopilot can be tricked

Tesla boss Elon Musk has broken his silence over a deadly Tesla crash in Texas – in which two occupants were killed after it appeared one of them was attempting to operate the vehicle on autopilot and had vacated the driver seat. And respected consumer advocacy group Consumer Reports has disputed claims by Tesla that its Autopilot function does not work without someone in the driver’s seat – discovering that the system can be “tricked”.

2021 Volkswagen Talagon unveiled in China as brand’s biggest SUV yet

The 2021 Volkswagen Talagon – which is believed to be the brand's largest ever SUV – was unveiled earlier this week at the 2021 Shanghai motor show. Underpinned by the VW Group's versatile 'MQB' platform, the imposing seven-seater reportedly measures 5152mm from nose to tail. It is 2002mm wide and stands 1795mm tall, giving it similar overall proportions to the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, Land Rover Discovery, or Lexus LX570.

2022 Hyundai Kona N appears ahead of unveiling

The 2022 Hyundai Kona N has appeared on social media a week before its official unveiling. The small performance SUV from Hyundai was posted to Instagram by user bindin, and appears to be the very same Kona N spied during a film shoot in March 2021. The Korean car brand has confirmed a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder will power the Kona N, sent to the front wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. MORE: 2021 Hyundai Kona N spied undisguised

Geely Xingyue transforms Volvo’s CMA platform into Chinese large SUV flagship

The 2021 Geely Xingyue L has been revealed at the 2021 Shanghai motor show. The five-seat large SUV is built upon Geely's (and subsidiary Volvo’s) shared Compact Modular Architecture, which also underpins the Volvo XC40 small SUV and sits below Geely’s current model line-up. It appears Geely has also borrowed the “Expanding Cosmos” front grille from Volvo sub-brand Polestar, which is flanked by a set of new LED matrix headlights allowing for customisable lighting effects.

Winter weather triggers a jump start on battery callouts and replacements 

Car batteries across Australia are conking out as the weather turns cold, with figures obtained by CarAdvice revealing a sharp spike in roadside assistance calls for jump starts in the lead up to winter. Data from 2020 supplied by Australia’s three largest roadside assistance providers – the NRMA, the RACV and RACQ – show a clear increase in callouts for flat batteries at this time of year.

Lincoln Zephyr Reflection revealed: Zephyr name revived for Shanghai motor show concept

Lincoln China has revived the Zephyr nameplate by unveiling the new Zephyr Reflection concept car at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, intended solely for the Chinese market. It is said to precede an eventual production four-door sedan slated to debut later in 2021, and is designed to preview Lincoln’s future styling strategy and technology showcase.

New survey reveals the most popular make and model in (almost) every country

A new survey published by Automotive Touch Up has revealed the most popular makes and models in (almost) every country – and the results may surprise you. As many may already be aware, Toyota and its HiLux ute reign supreme in Australia.

2021 Kia Stonic S review

When we first tested the Kia Stonic a couple of months ago, the city SUV had only just arrived in dealerships – and only selected models were available. The original launch review cars were the top-of-the-range Kia Stonic GT-Line powered by a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine (74kW/172Nm) matched to a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic.

2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series leaked: This is it!

This is it! Meet the 2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series free of camouflage, thanks to a pair of leaked images published online this evening. The new images show a fleet of Toyota's new-generation LandCruiser four-wheel-drives parked in a shipping yard, sitting all but undisguised with only a few sheets of light shipping film covering some vehicles' bonnets.

2021 Toyota Mirai FCEV first drive review

Meet the 2021 Toyota Mirai FCEV, an electric vehicle that takes its power not from a wall socket, but rather generates it on board using a hydrogen fuel cell. The technology itself may be unfamiliar to most motorists, but for Toyota this is its second ‘production’ hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle. It’s available alongside similar vehicles like the Honda Clarity in overseas markets and the Hyundai Nexo, which has entered a pilot program in Australia.

Why the affordable new car is dead

In 2011, P-platers or those on the very tightest of budgets were relatively spoiled for choice in the new-car market. For vehicles priced below $20,000, there were 170 variants available across 33 models from 21 brands. Fast-forward a decade, and the market is a fairly depressing sight for the slim-walleted: just 19 variants available for less than $20,000 – covering just nine models and six brands. Make that nine variants and five models if you want an automatic transmission.

Accelerate your driving with Mercedes-Benz

Cars are incredibly complex. Even the most basic and affordable forms of vehicles feature a list of acronyms longer than your arm. Jump into any one of our reviews on CarAdvice and you'll see phrases like AEB, LKA, RCTA and BSD likely strewn throughout. Despite paying for them and acknowledging their existence, some of the most important advanced driver assist technologies you don't actually want to see work – unless you're in a controlled environment.

2021 Mini Hatch and Convertible price and specs

Australian pricing and specifications for the facelifted Mini Hatch and Convertible ranges have been announced, ahead of their local launches in the third quarter of 2021.

2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Sport price and specs: Facelifted luxury SUV arrives in Australia

Australian pricing and specifications for the 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Sport have been announced, with the medium SUV now available in local showrooms from $69,450 plus on-road costs. The new sport-themed variant ushers in the mid-life update for Alfa Romeo's maiden SUV, ahead of the arrival of the wider range in the third quarter of 2021, set to include the sporty Veloce (formerly Ti) and high-performance range-topping Quadrifoglio.

Rabu, 21 April 2021

Peugeot 308 to go back to analogue gauges due to chip shortage – report

The 2021 Peugeot 308 won't be available with a digital instrument cluster for the time being. French news organisation LCI says the global semiconductor chip shortage has forced Peugeot to revert back to analogue gauges in the 308, as the car maker begins to ration its supply of the computer chips. "It's a nifty and agile way of getting around a real hurdle for car production, until the chips crisis ends," a spokesperson for Peugeot parent company Stellantis told news outlet Reuters.

Cadillac says every new model unveiled will be battery powered

Every new Cadillac model will be electric, with the company phasing out petrol-powered vehicles by 2030. Global Vice President of Cadillac Rory Harvey said from this point forward, the premium American car maker would only be unveiling battery-powered models. The comments came during the virtual launch of the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq SUV – the brand's first all-electric vehicle, offering 255kW, 440Nm, and a range of more than 483km from a single charge.

Mercedes-Benz Concept EQT teased ahead of May 10 reveal

The Mercedes-Benz Concept EQT has been teased, ahead of its full unveiling on May 10. Previewed in a shadowy, stylised image overnight, the Concept EQT will serve as a "near-production" preview of an electric version of Mercedes-Benz's upcoming T-Class van-based people mover (teased in July 2020), set to share its underpinnings with the new-generation Renault Kangoo van that's bound for Australia.

2022 Volkswagen Polo facelift officially revealed, Australian launch early 2022

The facelifted 2022 Volkswagen Polo has been officially unveiled, ahead of its Australian launch in the first quarter of 2022. Changes are concentrated on the styling front, with the Polo gaining a revised front-end with new headlights loosely inspired by the larger Golf, connected across the slimmer grille by an LED light strip similar to other Volkswagen vehicles. LED headlights are now standard in Europe, with matrix LED units available as an option for the first time.

Volkswagen and Hyundai take aim at Victorian Government’s electric car tax proposal

An electric-car lobby group – including automotive giants Volkswagen and Hyundai – has launched a fresh attack on the Victorian Government’s plan to introduce a special tax on electric vehicles.

2023 Cadillac Lyriq revealed in production guise

The 2023 Cadillac Lyriq has been officially revealed, ahead of its US launch in the first half of 2022. First previewed by a 2020 concept of the same name, the Lyriq will launch as Cadillac's first all-electric vehicle, with the large luxury SUV to ride on General Motors' new Ultium modular battery architecture.

2021 Ferrari 812 VS: 9500rpm supercar revealed in first official images

A "special version" of the 2021 Ferrari 812 has been revealed in first official images, ahead of its full unveiling on 5 May 2021, at 10:30pm AEST. While the upcoming supercar's name has yet to be officially confirmed – with media unofficially dubbing the model 'VS', short for 'Versione Speciale' (special version in Italian) – Ferrari has confirmed it will sit above the current 812 Superfast in its range, as the "ultimate expression" of the brand's front-engined coupes.

Huawei unveils its first car: The 2021 Seres SF5

Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei has unveiled its first car. Huawei pulled the wraps off a partnership with automotive brand Seres at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, with its first car, the freshly-updated Seres SF5, to be sold and marketed by Huawei throughout its stores in China. A joint development between Huawei and Seres, the range-topping SF5's two electric motors develop 405kW and 820Nm, with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine acting as a range-extending generator.

Top 10 strangest car names of 2021

There's a lot of science involved in choosing a new car name. Some manufacturers employ external brand companies, while others take inspiration from within. For example, the Ford Taurus was named by two of the company's executives – after their wives' star signs. We've seen some doozies in the past. Who could forget when Mazda brought out the 'Titan Dump', or when Subaru named its Brumby ute the 'Brat' in the US? You have to wonder where these manufacturers got their inspiration from.

2021 Audi RS5 Sportback review

The 2021 Audi RS5 Sportback and I got off on the wrong foot. My last experience with an Audi RS5 involved the previous generation – with its wonderful naturally aspirated V8. Awfully similar to the engine used in the Audi R8 supercar of the same era, it remains till this day a remarkably charismatic powertrain.

2021 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid price and specs

Australian pricing and specifications for the 2021 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid have been announced, as the large sedan begins to arrive in local showrooms. The vehicle – which is Maserati’s first ever electrified model – starts from $139,990 plus on-road costs for an entry-level, 'no badge' model. Meanwhile, the range-topping Hybrid GranLusso (luxury-focused) and Hybrid GranSport (performance-focused) variants are both priced from $163,990 plus on-road costs.

Selasa, 20 April 2021

Vote for the Drive 2021 BP Ultimate Driver’s Car of the Year

Barely a day passes in the automotive world we don’t hear news about 'autonomous this' and 'assistance that', and you could be forgiven for thinking that the role of the driver is becoming less relevant than it once was. While technology is working on making routine driving easier and safer, we can see manufacturers also using technology to make driving more fun.

EXCLUSIVE: Brabham Automotive confirms all-new Australian-built supercar for the road

EXCLUSIVE Car manufacturing is set to return to Australia with one of the most iconic names in motorsport. A top-secret road-going supercar – to rival the likes of Ferrari, McLaren, and Lamborghini – is currently being developed by local manufacturer Brabham Automotive. “We will be releasing a new road vehicle ... [and it is] our intention is for that vehicle to be built in Australia," the company's CEO, Dan Marks, revealed to CarAdvice.

Volkswagen ID.4 wins 2021 World Car of the Year, Australian showroom arrival held up by lax electric-car policy 

The Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV has won the 2021 World Car of the Year award, as voted by 93 judges from 28 countries – although many jurors were not able to drive the winning vehicle due to COVID-19 restrictions. The revolutionary car – which blends family-sized SUV practicality with pure electric power – is not likely to be introduced in Australia anytime soon as Volkswagen prioritises countries with strict vehicle emissions reduction targets.

It’s time for a Drive!

The time has finally come! Following our announcement of the relaunch of the Drive.com.au brand last year, the new website is up and running. Everyone at CarAdvice/Drive, from the development team, branding and design teams, and of course, the content team, have been working tirelessly to get this built and ready for you to use, and we couldn’t be happier with the result.

Safety practices to consider when the road is your workplace

There's been a push from industry safety professionals to educate drivers on road health and safety – specifically targeting those who use the road as their workplace. According to a study conducted by Safe Work Australia, the most likely workplace injury you're going to sustain is motor vehicle related – that includes going to and from work.

2021 Kia Cerato hatch revealed in sporty GT guise, Australian launch in May

The 2021 Kia Cerato GT hatch has been officially revealed, ahead of its Australian launch in May. Following first official images of the standard Cerato sedan released last week, and multiple leaked photos published in recent weeks, Kia has officially taken the wraps off its facelifted small hatchback in its home market of Korea in range-topping GT guise, where the model is badged as the K3.

2021 Kia Cerato sedan facelift officially revealed, Australian launch in May – UPDATE

UPDATE, 21 April 2021: Kia has revealed the updated Cerato sedan in more detail, releasing an array of new images and details. We've updated our original story with the new information, removing outdated details and spreading new photos of the Cerato sedan throughout. Additional photos can be found in the full gallery, accessed by clicking any image in the story. For full details on the updated Cerato hatch, along with the GT performance flagship, click here to read the full story.

The most sought-after Volkswagen 'Kombi' ever turns 70

April 1951 was a significant month in automotive history. Postwar Germany was divided, the East falling under communist rule while in the West, the Wirtschaftswunder (economic miracle) was in full swing. Capitalising on the economic boom, the Frankfurt motor show (officially, Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung, or plain old International Motor Show) opened its doors for the first time. And taking centre stage was a vehicle that has since become an automotive icon.

2021 Mazda CX-30 EV: Electric small SUV unveiled for China

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 EV has been revealed for the Chinese market, with the brand's Australian arm ruling out a local launch. Unveiled at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, the CX-30 EV is what its name begins to suggest: an all-electric version of Mazda's popular small SUV, built by the brand's Changan Mazda joint venture in Nanjing, China, exclusively for the local market.

1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi sells for more than $400,000

A rare 1998 Subaru Impreza with 40,000km on the clock has sold for an astonishing AUD$402,000 (US$312,555). Number 156 of just 400 Subaru Impreza 22B STi models built recently went under the hammer on US-based online auction site, Bring A Trailer. Located in the United States, the World Rally Blue example was imported into the US in 2020 under that country’s ‘show and display’ exemption.

Wuling Hongguang Mini EV Cabrio convertible concept revealed in Shanghai

A convertible variant of the Hongguang Mini EV – known as the Cabrio concept – was unveiled overnight at the Shanghai motor show. According to Autohome, the micro electric two-door is slated to hit showrooms in 2022 and (at least initially) will be sold exclusively in China. Aesthetically, the production vehicle is unlikely to change dramatically from its concept form.

2021 MG HS Core review

Medium-sized SUVs are the family cars of choice these days, and Australian punters have yet another option to consider with MG’s new 2021 MG HS Core specification. This model slots in at the bottom of the HS range, with a drive-away price of $29,990. This drive-away price undercuts a lot of the key competition, and further cements MG’s position as a good value offering in the SUV landscape.

Video: 2021 Toyota GR Yaris Rallye launch review

We test the Toyota GR Yaris Rallye edition, and explain why we reckon it's the 'real' one.

2021 Audi A4 Allroad long-term review: Introduction

Want to sum up today’s new car market in one word? Choice. Like the idea of a coupe but want the stance of an SUV? Done. Need the practicality of a ute but also want the open-air sensation of a convertible, and the taller stance of that SUV? Check that too. And in the case of our latest long termer, the 2021 Audi A4 Allroad Quattro 40 TDI, you can have the style and presentation of a premium station wagon with, ah, the ride-height of an SUV. Choice!

Great Wall sub-brand Ora to unveil Volkswagen Beetle-inspired electric car – UPDATE: Punk Cat revealed in full

UPDATE, 20 April 2021: The Beetle-inspired Ora electric car was revealed in full last night at the Shanghai motor show. The newest images – courtesy of Autocar – confirm the vehicle’s four-seat layout, reveal a flower-studded interior, and show off a two-tone green and white colour scheme for the first time. It appears the car also boasts dual screens, in the form of a circular digital cluster behind the steering wheel and a centre console-mounted infotainment interface.

Senin, 19 April 2021

Toyota considering a pure electric HiLux ute, but don't try to order one just yet

A pure electric Toyota HiLux ute could one day be sold in Australian showrooms, but only after it has been tested to handle our tough conditions. As Tesla, Ford and Chevrolet prepare to launch electric pick-ups in the US, Toyota says it has not ruled out the possibility of a battery-electric version of Australia's top-selling vehicle, the Toyota HiLux.

2021 Ford Focus ST-3 price and specs: Fully-loaded hot hatch arrives in limited numbers

The 2021 Ford Focus ST-3 has been announced for Australia, adding a selection of luxury features to the Blue Oval's flagship hot hatch. Priced from $47,990 before on-road costs, just 200 examples of the Focus ST-3 will reach Ford showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2021 (October to December inclusive), all exclusively fitting a seven-speed automatic transmission to the hot hatch's 2.3-litre turbo four-cylinder engine, with no manual on offer.

Toyota pushes back ‘every model will be hybrid or electric’ target from 2025 to 2030

Toyota has pushed back its target of having a hybrid or electric version of every model in its range by 2025 – to 2030 – because the world’s biggest car maker needs more time to develop advanced technology for its utes, vans and four-wheel-drives. The Japanese car giant has also excluded GR performance models from the 2030 hybrid or electric target – for now – because it is yet to decide on what will power future performance models.

Toyota: Why every car on the planet can’t switch to electric power

The world’s biggest car maker, Toyota, has warned against the push to switch every car on the planet to electric power – because it would simply shift the problem from tailpipes to power stations. A day after Toyota unveiled its first pure electric car – the BZ4X, a Toyota RAV4-sized SUV due in overseas showrooms in 2022 and in Australia soon after – the company has warned some sections of the community need to be careful what they wish for when chasing a pure electric dream.

GWM’s Tank 800 revealed as new new luxury flagship at Shanghai motor show

GWM’s Tank 800 full-size SUV prototype was unveiled overnight at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, set to become the brand’s flagship luxury offering. Much like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan – from which inspiration was clearly drawn – the Tank 800 gets a star-studded roof lining, privacy curtains, full-size reclining rear seats, integrated door umbrellas, passenger touch screens, custom cushions, a champagne bar, and automatic doors.

Honda SUV E:prototype revealed as electric HR-V successor

The electric Honda SUV E:prototype was unveiled overnight at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, as the likely successor to the existing HR-V petrol-powered family car. The new model is an evolution of the Honda SUV E:concept, revealed during the 2020 Beijing motor show. Design cues are clearly drawn from the current generation HR-V, however it's unclear if underpinning are shared (or, instead, if this is a ground-up new car).

Fully-electric 2022 Mitsubishi Airtrek teased, based on the Outlander

Mitsubishi has teased an all-electric version of the Outlander, badged as an Airtrek for the Chinese market. Revealed at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, the battery-powered Mitsubishi SUV wears redesigned front- and rear-ends than the recently-unveiled Outlander to help differentiate it as an electric vehicle (EV).

2022 Volkswagen Polo facelift to be unveiled this week, here's a sneak peak

The facelifted 2022 Volkswagen Polo will be unveiled globally on 22 April – two days from now – ahead of an expected Australian arrival early next year. A teaser image released alongside the announcement provides a glimpse at the updated Polo’s front end, with the facelifted city car to gain revised LED headlights and a new grille, with an LED daytime-running light strip running across its width, as per the Golf, Arteon and other recent Volkswagen models.

2021 GWM X Cannon: Hybrid full-size pick-up unveiled to rival Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado

The 2021 GWM X Cannon is China’s answer to full-size American pick-ups – including the Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado – but it has the option of hybrid power. Unveiled at the 2021 Shanghai motor show, the X Cannon slots above the existing Ute (which, confusingly, offers a Cannon-X variant locally) in GWM’s pick-up range, with a bold dual-cab design first previewed in teaser images earlier this month.

Tesla owner protests at Shanghai Motor Show, stands on roof yelling ‘my brakes failed’

An angry Tesla owner standing on the roof of a Model 3 display car at the Shanghai Motor Show deflected open umbrellas used by security guards attempting to cover her t-shirt slogan which said “brakes lost control”. Tesla representatives initially asked the woman to step down off the roof of the vehicle but security guards stepped in when she refused their request.

2021 GWM Baja Snake revealed: Shelby-tuned dual-cab ute debuts to rival Ford Ranger Raptor

The 2021 GWM Baja Snake has been unveiled at the Shanghai motor show, as the Chinese brand's road-legal rival for the dune-conquering Ford Ranger Raptor. Co-developed with American muscle car tuner Shelby, the Baja Snake sees GWM's new Ute undergo a hardcore, off-road-focused makeover, with a ride height increase, chunkier bumpers, wider wheel-arch flares and race-derived suspension.

Video: 2021 Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ Coupe first drive review

The E53 Coupe might be seen as a lesser AMG, but that would be a mistake. It's potent, fast and effortless – everything an AMG should be.

2021 Ford Evos revealed for China, Australian launch unlikely

The 2021 Ford Evos has been unveiled at the Shanghai motor show – though don't expect to see it reach Australia in the near future. The spiritual successor to the recently-axed Mondeo mid-size car, the Evos sees Ford morph its long-running mid-sizer into a high-riding wagon-turned-liftback in the same vein as the recently-unveiled Citroen C5 X and electric Polestar 2.

GWM Wey Tank 300 Cybertank: Concept off-roader set for Shanghai reveal

The Tank 300 Cybertank concept – which appears to be heavily inspired by boxy off-roaders including the Mercedes-Benz G-Class – is set to be unveiled at this week’s Shanghai motor show. Built by GWM’s luxury subsidiary Wey, the Cybertank is reportedly underpinned by mechanicals from the existing Haval Tank 300 production SUV. However, it picks up aggressive exterior styling enhancements, roof-mounted solar panels, roof rails, a square spare tyre cover, and an exterior body kit.

Miniature 2022 Nissan GT-R Nismo included as McDonald’s Happy Meal surprise

Nissan has partnered with McDonald’s Japan to bundle a new 2022 Nissan GT-R Nismo diecast toy into the Happy Set (Happy Meal) as part of the 2022 production model’s launch. A McDonald’s-themed version of the updated 2022 GT-R Nismo has been unveiled alongside the promotion announcement, which sees the supercar wrapped in a striking chrome gold, and features the McDonald’s script emblazoned on top of its rear wing.

2021 Hyundai Kona (base) review

The Hyundai Kona first graced the small-SUV segment in Australia in 2017, its funky urban styling designed to target an urban buyer. It worked, too, with the Kona consistently near the top of the sales chart in the small-SUV segment. That segment is a boon for carmakers and buyers alike. Representing almost 15 per cent of the new-car market, the small high-riding soft-roaders are gracing our streets like never before.

New Mad Max movie starring Chris Hemsworth will be filmed in Australia, in cinemas 2023

A new Mad Max film starring Australian actor Chris Hemsworth will be the biggest movie “ever made in New South Wales,” it was claimed today. As with the first four Mad Max films – Mad Max 1 in 1979, Mad Max 2 in 1981, Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome in 1985 and Mad Max Fury Road in 2015 – the next instalment, said to be a prequel, will also be directed by Australian George Miller.

2022 Maserati Levante Hybrid: Mild-hybrid luxury SUV revealed

The 2022 Maserati Levante Hybrid has been unveiled, and will be a stepping-stone prior to an all-electric SUV being offered by the Italian sports luxury brand. The Levante uses the same mild-hybrid powertrain as the Ghibli Hybrid sedan, which the company says retains the performance of the 257kW/500Nm twin-turbo V6-powered Levante variant, only with more efficient fuel consumption and much-improved emissions.

Minggu, 18 April 2021

Audi A6 E-Tron Concept revealed, production model due in 2023

Meet the future of Audi’s large executive sedan: the Audi A6 E-Tron Concept has been revealed at the 2021 Shanghai motor show. While the show car might feature ‘Concept’ in its name, the Shanghai-bound A6 E-Tron is a 95 per cent production-ready preview of a future all-electric large Audi sedan, confirmed to enter production in 2023 as a companion to the current, combustion-powered A6 launched in 2018.

BYD e2: Australia’s cheapest electric car will arrive this year, priced “well below $35,000"

The upcoming BYD e2 electric hatchback – set to be unveiled at this week's Shanghai motor show – will cost "well below $35,000" in Australia, according to a spokesperson for the local importer Nexport. This should comfortably make it the nation’s cheapest electric car by some margin, when it comes onto the local market later this year. For reference, the MG ZS EV – which is also built in China – currently holds that distinction with a sticker price of $43,990 drive-away.

Australian car industry slams New Zealand’s drastic 2025 vehicle emissions reduction targets

Aggressive vehicle emissions reduction targets risk crippling the new-car market in neighbouring New Zealand – and the Australian automotive industry says the rollout will serve as a warning for local regulators. In January 2021, the New Zealand government announced a drastic reduction in vehicle emissions targets by 2025.

2021 Formula One Emilia Romagna Grand Prix: Round two wrap

The 2021 F1 Grand Prix of Emilia Romagna was the perfect formula of rookies crashing, penalties, a red flag and rain. From get go it was wet and wild in Imolaand one of the more exciting races we've witnessed in quite some time. It looks like F1 is heading in the right direction and rain always makes things that little bit more interesting.

2022 Lexus ES update revealed, here second half of 2021

The 2022 Lexus ES has been unveiled with minor styling tweaks, updated materials, and improved ride quality. Lexus unveiled the ES at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show, with the vehicle appearing with a slightly revised front grille, LED headlights for higher-spec variants, and with some tech gadgetry upgrades.

2022 Genesis Electrified G80 revealed: Electric sedan due in Australia early 2022

The 2022 Genesis Electrified G80 has been officially revealed, ahead of an Australian launch in early 2022. Unveiled at the 2021 Shanghai motor show opening later this week, the Electrified G80 beats the much-rumoured GV60 to its public debut by several months to become Genesis' first electric vehicle (EV) – though unlike the GV60, the Electrified G80 doesn't ride on a dedicated electric-only platform, instead being based on the regular, combustion-powered G80 introduced in 2020.

2021 Subaru WRX STI EJ25 Final Edition price and specs: Swan-song sedan arrives in Australia

A swan-song variant of the outgoing Subaru WRX STI – known as the WRX STI EJ25 Final Edition – has been revealed for Australia, priced from $62,440 plus on-road costs.

Toyota unveils first electric car and it's coming to Australia

Car giant Toyota has unveiled a concept version of what is destined become its first ever pure electric car – and the company says it will be one of seven electric vehicles it will introduce by the end of 2025. The Toyota BZ4X Concept was presented on the opening day of the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show today, taking centre stage in the world's biggest car market.

I've been Ferrari Approved

Think buying a new Ferrari is like rocking up to your local Toyota dealer and a couple of days later driving away in a brand-new Corolla? Or Camry? Think again. The wait list for a brand-new Ferrari can stretch a long time, sometimes as long as 18 months depending on configuration and personalisation options. “We don’t actually have off-the-shelf,” Rocco Mammone, Sales Executive for Ferrari North Shore tells CarAdvice. “It’s all built to order.”

2021 Audi Q2 price and specs

Australian pricing and specifications for the 2021 Audi Q2 have been announced, ahead of its local showroom arrival in May. Three models will be offered with the facelifted Q2 locally – 35 TFSI, 40 TFSI and SQ2 – all bringing revised exterior styling, more efficient engines, and increased standard equipment to Audi's smallest SUV. Opening the range is the aforementioned 35 TFSI, priced from $42,900 before on-road costs.

Tesla Texas crash leaves two dead, ‘no-one in driver’s seat’, say police

Tesla’s autonomous driving technology has been blamed for yet another deadly crash in the US, with authorities claiming two people died after a Tesla crashed when no-one was in the driver’s seat. The 2019 Tesla Model S sedan reportedly left the road and struck a tree on a road north of Houston, Texas, on Saturday night US time. “There was no one in the driver’s seat,” Sergeant Cinthya Umanzor told news agency Reuters.

2021 BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive revealed: Hot mid-sizers gain all-wheel drive

The 2021 BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive have been revealed – bringing a long-awaited all-wheel-drive system to the brand's high-performance mid-size cars – ahead of their local launches expected later this year. Powering the flagship M3 and M4 is the same 375kW/650Nm 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged 'S58' inline-six as the rear-drive Competition variants launched in local BMW showrooms in recent months, paired to an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

2021 Volkswagen Multivan Comfortline Premium

While everybody is seemingly busy banging on about SUVs, Volkswagen has updated its out-and-out people mover for 2021. It’s called the T6.1 Multivan, and has landed with the broader Transporter range to renew Volkswagen’s offering in the anti-SUV segment. Few models carry as big a stick as this Multivan in terms of heritage and icon-ness. It's central to the lore of Volkswagen, and Original Type 2 Kombis – especially rare variants – sell for stratospheric amounts these days.

"Unconscionable" and "fraudulent" Australian four-wheel-drive rental firm fined $1.2 million

An Australian four-wheel-drive vehicle hire business has been ordered to pay fines totalling $1.223 million, after the Federal Court found it had serially breached consumer law and behaved deceptively.

Auto industry hampered again by rubber supply shortages

Production within the automotive industry continues to be stifled, as rubber stock shortages add to semiconductor chip supply issues that could see delays balloon out to years. While the car industry has had its eyes on the aforementioned semiconductor shortages which have plagued auto manufacturing since the start of 2021, market analysts are now predicting that the next material to become hot property will be rubber.

Reborn Mini Moke goes on sale in UK, Australian deliveries due this year

The reborn Moke has officially gone on sale in the UK, priced from £23,950 (AU$42,600). Moke International – which acquired the 'Moke' trademark back in 2015 – last year unveiled its new iteration of the ragtop classic, and subsequently released 56 limited-edition examples. As of this week, a standard production variant is now on offer.

New Cars: 2021 New Car Calendar, the April update

The year 2020 was one that many would like to forget, and the automotive industry is no exception. Lockdowns and economic slowdowns brought on by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic translated exactly as you'd expect for Australia's new-car sales, with a staggering 48.5 per cent sales decline in April, contributing to an overall market down 13.7 per cent by the end of the year.

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB unveiled, Australian launch due 2022

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB has been revealed, ahead of an Australian launch sometime in 2022. Hot on the heels of the debut of the flagship EQS limo, the new EQB will launch as Mercedes-Benz's second electric SUV based on a combustion-powered vehicle underpinned by its compact MFA2 platform – namely the GLB seven-seat SUV – following the GLA-based EQA's unveiling in January.

Sabtu, 17 April 2021

Video: Mazda BT-50 v Isuzu D-Max off-road comparison

We challenge the twins under the skin with a steep and slippery hill climb.

2021 Volkswagen ID.6 electric SUV revealed for China

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.6 electric SUV has been unveiled ahead of its public debut at this week's 2021 Shanghai motor show. The third member of Volkswagen's burgeoning ID electric vehicle family, the six- or seven-seat ID.6 will be sold exclusively in the Chinese market, where it will be offered in two guises, each built as part of a different Volkswagen joint venture: the ID.6 X (built by SAIC, owners of Australia's MG and LDV) and ID.6 Crozz (manufactured by FAW).

Ford Mustang continues to dominate international sports car market

The Ford Mustang remains the world’s most popular sports car, with 80,577 examples reported as sold during 2020. Despite the total number of sales shrinking year-on-year, the model – which is offered in coupe and convertible guise – grew its overall market share by 0.3 per cent. In 2019 102,090 examples of the Mustang were sold, representing 14.8 per cent of the international sports car market. In 2020 the decline to 80,577 was still enough to corner 15.1 per cent of the market.

Iconic Australian land speed record car for sale for $550,000

An Australian-built world land speed record contender has come up for sale. The 1997 Aussie Invader III LSR JET uses an engine from an RAAF Mirage jet fighter to take the custom-built race car to 1000km/h from a standstill in around 16 seconds, according to its Carsales ad. The jet car was sold by Lloyds in 2019 as part of the Gosford Classic Car Museum auction, with records indicating a sale price of $455,000 (before the auction premium).

2018-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee recalled with crankshaft fault

Jeep Australia has recalled eight examples of its Grand Cherokee SUV in Australia, citing a potential fault with the bonnet latch. The affected vehicles were sold between 1 October 2017 and 31 August 2020 (Model Years 2018-2020).

2021 Lexus LS500h F Sport review

There’s no doubt Lexus engineers know how to stitch together a premium sedan – it has been their bread and butter from the outset after all. The letters ‘LS’ still mean a lot to a company that has more recently moved into the SUV space, and the 2021 Lexus LS500 F Sport is the sporting option in the premium large sedan range. It’s had a mid-life update too, which is why we’re testing it again here. You’ll find the full details in our pricing and specification guide.

Jumat, 16 April 2021

Audi A6 E-Tron Concept breaks cover ahead of Shanghai motor show

You’re looking at a thinly-veiled preview of what the next-generation Audi A6 is set to look like. As part of Audi’s Shanghai motor show schedule the A6 E-Tron Concept, as it is officially known, will take the stand alongside the production versions of the Q4 E-Tron and Q4 E-Tron Sportback SUV twins. Overnight a number of international motoring sites published the first low-resolution images of the concept, ahead of its official reveal on Monday.

2022 BMW iM2: Details of the 1000kW electric coupe revealed – report

Details of the 2022 BMW iM2 have been revealed, and it's set to offer more power than a modern Formula One car. According to Car Magazine, the 1000kW all-electric performance coupe from BMW is said to be a birthday present to itself, as the illustrious M division approaches its 50th birthday in 2022. It seems only fitting the occasion should be commemorated with a one megawatt M car.

Why showrooms are running out of new cars

Car buyers are waiting months – and in some cases until early next year – to take delivery of new vehicles because a global shortage of semi conductors has temporarily slammed the brakes on car production lines. A year ago, car dealers were overstocked with new models as demand fell by almost 50 per cent, and had concerns they might close their doors forever as the COVID-19 pandemic started to take hold in Australia.

The small Melbourne company doing incredibly unique electric car conversions

Tucked away in a small industrial park in the Melbourne suburb of Clayton South is EVolution. A five-person team is working away at several top-secret automotive projects, unbeknownst to most of the country. The company was born of a random passion project in 2015, which saw director Russell Shepherd convert his own Audi A3 to electric drive in the absence of other appealing options on the local market.

Around the tracks: Blind racer to attempt a new world record in a 600kW Corvette

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

2021 Tesla Model 3 price and specs: Prices cut by $4000

Prices of the 2021 Tesla Model 3 have been cut by $4000, following previous price cuts in recent months. Model 3 Standard Range Plus, Long Range and Performance variants continue to be offered, now priced from $62,900, $77,900 and $89,900 respectively, with all prices excluding on-road costs, order and delivery fees, and (where applicable) Luxury Car Tax.

Video: Local company develops all-electric off-road buggy for Australian Defence Force

A company located in Melbourne's south east has answered a brief from the Australian Defence Force to design and build an electric off-road side-by-side buggy for use in combat. EVolution worked with the Defence Science & Technology Group to develop the buggy – which it's calling the e-ATV – creating a near-silent utility vehicle to help transport troops quickly and with minimal detection.

2021 Ford Puma long-term review: Introduction

As a former owner of the original Ford Puma, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to spend six months with the model that has revived the nameplate nearly 20 years after it was discontinued. They’re very different vehicle styles, though. Two decades have transformed buyer tastes, and inevitably the new Puma is an SUV-inspired crossover, whereas the first Puma was a compact sports coupe.

New Audi E-Tron model teased ahead of next week's Shanghai unveiling

Audi has teased yet another addition to its E-Tron electric vehicle line-up, set to be unveiled during next week’s Shanghai motor show. Specific details for are being kept firmly under wraps for now, however it’s likely the upcoming low-riding model will be A4- or A6-sized, and underpinned by Audi and Porsche's new PPE architecture.

Kamis, 15 April 2021

2022 BMW i4 now available to reserve in Australia

The 2022 BMW i4 is now available to pre-order via the BMW Australia website. BMW is allowing potential buyers to reserve their all-electric i4 on a $500 deposit, with deliveries expected to begin in the first quarter of 2022 (January to March inclusive). Unveiled in March 2021, industry rumours suggest the battery-powered four-door coupe will be offered in three variants: an entry-level i4 eDrive35, a mid-spec i4 eDrive40, and a performance flagship i4 M50 with up to 390kW.

2021 Hyundai Ioniq Premium EV review

In some ways, the 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Premium is the quiet achiever in the growing electric car field. While we’re testing the pure-electric variant, you can of course choose from either a conventional hybrid, plug-in hybrid or pure-electric like we’re concentrating on here. In short, then, Hyundai reckons there’s something for everyone in the Ioniq range, and it’s a clever way of hedging your bets to cover as much of the market as possible.

Ferrari to launch first electric vehicle in 2025 – report

Ferrari is preparing to launch its first all-electric model in 2025, according to CEO John Elkann. During the company's Annual General Meeting overnight, the Ferrari boss told shareholders "We are continuing to execute our electrification strategy in a highly disciplined way," British publication Auto Express reports.

EOFY: Volvo offers $5000 cash-back for 2021 Volvo XC90 and XC60

In the lead up to the End of the Financial Year (EOFY), Volvo Australia is again offering a $5000 cash-back rebate on current 2021 Volvo XC60 and XC90 SUVs. The offer includes the brand's new five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and is available on cars purchased and delivered between 1 April and 29 June 2021.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz unveiled, Australian launch ruled out

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz has been officially revealed – though it won't come to Australia, as it won't be built in right-hand drive. Unveiled by Hyundai's US arm overnight, the Santa Cruz is pitched as a more lifestyle-oriented, less hardcore alternative to conventional body-on-frame pick-ups including the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado and Navara-sized Nissan Frontier, thanks to underpinnings shared with the Hyundai Tucson mid-size SUV.

Europcar adds fully-electric MG ZS EV to rental fleet

Australia’s most affordable electric car – the MG ZS EV SUV – will now be available to rent, courtesy of Europcar. From next week, customers will have access to the electric ZS at Melbourne Airport. According to MG, its primary goal is to give consumers the opportunity to properly test drive an electric vehicle (EV). "This exciting partnership will provide many people who are thinking of electric motoring the chance to try it for themselves, on their own terms," said CEO Peter Ciao.

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS revealed, Australian launch December 2021

Meet the S-Class of electric vehicles: the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS has been officially unveiled, ahead of its Australian launch in December 2021. The new EQS will slot into the top of Mercedes-Benz's passenger car and all-electric EQ line-ups (for now), with aerodynamic concept-inspired styling, a widescreen dashboard and a flexible electric architecture that allow it to shape up as the German brand's rival to the large electric sedan pioneer, the Tesla Model S.

Video: Ford Mustang Mach 1 Interview with Rick Kelly

We chat with motorsport legend Rick Kelly about his thoughts on the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1

2021 Formula One Emilia Romagna Grand Prix: Race preview

Following a three week break, F1 returns for the second race of the 2021 season. The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix returned to the calendar in 2020. With different races not allowed to share the same name in the same F1 world championship season, and the Italian Grand Prix confirmed at Monza later this year, the Imola round has regressed to its name adopted last year – the Emilia Romagna GP.

2018-2021 Lamborghini Aventador recalled with latch fault

Lamborghini has recalled 22 examples of its Aventador supercar in Australia, citing a potential fault with the bonnet latch. The affected vehicles – which comprise both the SVJ Coupe and 63 – the were sold between 1 November 2018 and 31 December 2020 (Model Year 2018-2021).

2017-2020 Nissan Pathfinder tow bar recalled

Nissan Australia has issued a recall of dealership-fitted tow bars for 2017-2020 (MY17-20) Nissan Pathfinder models. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), states a manufacturing issue may cause the tow bar to detach from the Pathfinder. Nissan says the affected vehicles were sold between 1 December 2016 and 31 December 2020. The affected Nissan Genuine Accessory items have the batch number '29 18', found on the tow bar's compliance plate.

2021 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack Premium review

After about half-a-minute behind the wheel of the 2021 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, and I’m questioning why anyone would buy an SUV. VW’s high-riding wagon has everything you need for a family – plenty of space, both for people and cargo, a high-riding stance, all-wheel drive and stylish good looks. And it’s packed with equipment, often found wanting in SUVs of similar size and price.

2021 Toyota GR Yaris Rallye launch review

No-one expected the hype surrounding the Toyota GR Yaris – including Toyota. But we nearly got knocked over in the stampede when Toyota Australia announced the RRP was close to $50,000, and then in the same breath revealed an introductory offer of $39,990 drive-away. All of a sudden, a $40,000 Toyota Yaris seemed cheap – rather than being almost as expensive as a Subaru WRX or Volkswagen Golf GTI.

2021 Porsche Panamera review: GTS and Turbo S

The 2021 Porsche Panamera presents an interesting conundrum, even for those of you who might want to dislike it. What started out as a somewhat compromised design that attempted to buy into the 911 heritage while offering four-door practicality, became – typical of Porsche – a quality evolution of the original that has only gotten better with time. Need a main course of four-door usefulness, with a heavy side of Porsche dynamism and DNA? We have the answer to your quandary.

Rabu, 14 April 2021

What's in a name? Why modern car model designations piss me off

I love old Mercs, owned a couple in my time, romanced by their German-ness (I’m of German heritage), reliability and build quality. I’ve owned a W123 generation 230 and a W123 gen 280CE. More recently, as in last week, I bought a W210 generation E320 (and yes, there will be Project Car updates soon).

Mighty Car Mods' Lotus Exige Sport 240 heads to auction

A black 2008 Lotus Exige Sport 240 owned by Blair 'Moog' Joscelyne from popular YouTube channel Mighty Car Mods is going up for auction. The Lotus Exige is believed to be one of only six special-edition Sport 240 variants in the country by Lotus, and one of three in finished in black.

2021 Toyota Camry price and specs: More tech, higher RRPs, V6 axing confirmed – UPDATE

UPDATE, 15 April 2021: Toyota has released new local imagery of the 2021 Toyota Camry. The full gallery can be accessed by clicking on any of the images. The story continues below. UPDATE, 15 March 2021: A correction has been issued by Toyota Australia, with the power figure for the 2021 Toyota Camry hybrid being revised up to 160kW. The story has been updated below.

1988 Holden VL Walkinshaw SS V8 listed with $1 million hopes, as 'bogan boom' rages on

A 1988 Holden VL Walkinshaw SS Group A homologation special has been listed for sale in NSW, with price expectations “in excess of $1 million.” Of the 750 Walkinshaw SS cars built, this example is number 439. The odometer has clocked just 1479km since new, and the vehicle appears to have never been registered – according to the seller, it is in "complete original condition."

Hyundai Pony Heritage Series: Electric restomod concept revealed

The Hyundai Pony Heritage Series electric concept has been unveiled, as a zero-emissions reimagining of Hyundai's first-ever production vehicle. Revealed at Hyundai's newly-opened Motorstudio Busan exhibition centre in Korea earlier this month, the Pony Heritage Series 'restomod' concept borrows many design cues from the brand's latest Ioniq 5 electric vehicle – itself inspired by the 45 Concept, another show car built as a retro-styled tribute to the original 1975 Pony.

2021 Audi Q4 E-Tron electric SUV and Sportback revealed

The 2021 Audi Q4 E-Tron has been revealed as the latest model in the German luxury car company's electric vehicle push. Audi offers the Q4 E-Tron in both SUV and Sportback bodies, which are underpinned by the 'MEB' electric architecture shared across Volkswagen Group brands. Headlining the range is the Q4 E-Tron 50 Quattro, offering 220kW and 460Nm through dual electric motors, sending power to all four wheels for a 0-100km/h time of 6.2 seconds. MORE: 2021 Audi Q4 E-Tron SUV review

GWM sub-brand Ora set to unveil Volkswagen Beetle-inspired electric car

GWM (Great Wall Motors) sub-brand Ora is set to unveil a Volkswagen Beetle-inspired electric car at the Shanghai motor show later this month. The yet-to-be-named model appears to be slightly longer and wider than the car from which it is derived, while also boasting four doors and larger wheel arches.

2021 Kia Cerato facelift officially revealed, Australian launch in May

The 2021 Kia Cerato has been officially unveiled, ahead of its Australian launch in May 2021. Revealed in Korea overnight as the K3 – in sedan guise only, with photos of the hatch expected soon – the updated Cerato will reach South Korean Kia dealers later in April 2021, with revised exterior styling, new interior technologies and additional active safety features.

People movers are cool... here are five of the best

There was a time – before the advent of the SUVs as we know them today – where people movers where the ‘go-to’ for those looking to haul people and their stuff. It’s a little sad, if anything, that the SUV onslaught has all-but killed off the once-popular people mover. Sure, you can still buy a Kia Carnival or Honda Odyssey, and as good as they are in terms of modernity, you can’t help but lament the passing of the traditional people mover.

2022 Honda Civic sedan revealed in first official image, Civic hatch to debut in coming months

The 2022 Honda Civic sedan will make its full production debut on April 29, with its Australia-bound hatchback sibling to follow in "several months". A sole image of the new car was released by Honda's American arm overnight, revealing the production Civic sedan will look all but identical to the Civic Prototype unveiled in November 2020, with changes limited to different alloy wheels, revised lower intake grille designs, and a marginally slimmer upper grille with additional body colouring.

2021 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible revealed, Australian launch early 2022

The 2021 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible has been unveiled. Following in the wheel tracks of its fixed-roof sibling unveiled in March, the Continental GT Speed Convertible arrives as the quickest and "most driver-focused" offering in Bentley's current drop-top line-up. Power comes from a retuned version of the 'standard' model's 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12, sending 485kW (up 18kW) and 900Nm to all four wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Skoda planning electric hatchback based on Volkswagen ID.3 – report

Skoda is planning to bring a new Volkswagen Golf-sized electric hatch to market in 2024. As a Volkswagen Group brand, it's believed the new Skoda hatch will be based on the 'MEB' architecture which underpins the Volkswagen ID.3 and Cupra Born, according to Spanish publication motor.es. In the ID.3, up to 150kW/310Nm is delivered to the rear axle from a single electric motor, offering a range between 330 and 550 kilometres on a single charge under the WLTP standard, depending on the variant.

Huawei to invest $1.3 billion in autonomous electric vehicle development

Huawei has announced it will invest US$1 billion (AU$1.3 billion) in electric and autonomous vehicle development over the next decade. As previously reported by CarAdvice, the Chinese tech company and mobile phone giant has contracted a number of companies to co-develop its own vehicles, including BAIC Group, Chongqing Changan Automobile and Guangzhou Automotive.

2021 Volkswagen T-Cross long-term review: Farewell

Our little, white 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross 85TSI Life has been in the garage for three months now, and it’s time to say goodbye. Over the past 12 weeks, we’ve found plenty to like about the chunky, compact SUV, and the most basic VW 'adventure hatch' on the market has served us pretty well.

Selasa, 13 April 2021

2022 Nissan R35 GT-R Nismo unveiled

The 2022 Nissan R35 GT-R Nismo has been revealed in Japan, alongside a new special edition. Both Nismo versions of Nissan's flagship GT-R will be offered in a Stealth Grey colour, while the special edition gets an exclusive clear-coated carbon-fibre bonnet and a set of Rays 20-inch forged alloy wheels. The latest Nissan logo can also be found on the new models.

2021 Mini John Cooper Works hatch revealed, Australian launch by October

The 2021 Mini John Cooper Works hatch has been revealed, ahead of its Australian launch in the third quarter of 2021 (July to September inclusive). While the covers were lifted off the facelifted Mini Cooper, Cooper S and Cooper SE hatch and Convertible range in January 2021, and we gained our first look at the John Cooper Works Convertible earlier this month, this is the first official time we've seen Mini's updated three-door hot hatch in full.

Driver parks car in truck emergency lane to walk dog, fined $272 

An ignorant driver has been busted for parking their car in the middle of a truck emergency lane – which was used to stop a runaway vehicle just a fortnight ago – so they could take their dog for a walk in nearby bushland. Truck “arrester beds” or “sand traps” are designed to stop heavy vehicles at the bottom of steep hills if they run out of brakes.

Prince Philip’s final journey to be in a modified long-wheelbase Land Rover Defender

His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, will make one, final, short journey from Windsor Castle to his final resting place at St George’s Chapel, in a long-wheelbase Land Rover Defender 130 Gun Bus, that he had a hand in designing. A long-time Landy fan, the Land Rover was built to the Duke’s own specifications and was delivered to the Sandringham Estate for use by the Royal Family in 2016.

Apple to sign with LG Magna to produce electric car – report

The much-rumoured Apple car may be produced by LG Magna e-Powertrain. The two companies are said to be close to finalising an agreement to build Apple's first car, according to a new report from newspaper The Korea Times. Announced in December 2020, LG Magna e-Powertrain is the joint venture between Korean tech giant LG Electronics and the large Canadian automotive company Magna. Despite being only months old, the company is estimated to be valued at US$1 billion (AU$1.3B).

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid delays still stretch six months or more – despite production ramp-up

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid customers are still obliged to wait six months or more to take delivery of their new cars – despite a significant ramp up in production and what Toyota claims is a fair allocation system. The waiting time for a new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid stretched up to 10 months last year and the company had claimed delays had eventually been reduced to three or four months in most cases. However, demand has not waned and waiting times have started to climb again.

2021 Polestar 2: Single-motor variants announced with up to 540km range

The 2021 Polestar 2 range has been expanded with the addition of two new single-motor variants, trading performance for a lower starting price. Sitting below the existing all-wheel-drive 78kWh Polestar 2 introduced at launch, the two new Polestar models lose the range-topper's rear motor to become front-wheel-drive, and are paired to a choice of 'Standard Range' 64kWh or 'Long Range' 78kWh batteries.

Hybrid cars get green light to earn “super credits” to offset emissions of utes and 4WDs in Australia

Japanese car giant Toyota will be able to use hybrid car sales to offset the emissions of its utes, vans and four-wheel-drives – which are among the biggest emitters on our roads – according to a template for future pollution reduction targets in Australia. Toyota cruised to victory as it topped the charts in the automotive industry’s inaugural emissions scoreboard – where all brands are ranked from best to worst – in the category for passenger cars and small SUVs.

Video: 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class review

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the benchmark luxury saloon, so what does an all-new generation mean? Quite simply, the benchmark has been raised.

Video: 2022 Ford Ranger Super Cab spied for the first time

EXCLUSIVE The 2022 Ford Ranger Super Cab has been caught as engineers continue testing on the NSW south coast. Days after images of the Ranger prototypes appeared on social networks, CarAdvice reader Simon has sent through some footage revealing a new Super Cab body from Ford.

2022 BMW M4 CSL spy photos

Is the new-generation 2021 BMW M4 not fast enough for you? Its German maker could have a solution, with a flagship 2022 BMW M4 CSL recently spied testing for the first time. The camouflaged prototype snapped by our spy photography partners near BMW's testing centre wears a handful of upgrades over standard M4 models launched locally in recent months, headlined by a new front splitter with winglets, and a longer 'ducktail' rear spoiler.

Ford Bronco six-wheeler confirmed for US market

A six-wheel variant of the much-anticipated Ford Bronco is set to be offered in the USA, courtesy of conversion specialists Maxlider Brothers Customs. The goliath off-roader – shown off in the computer-generated renders above – will reportedly be offered from mid-2022 in the USA, priced from US$399,000 (AU$525,000) plus on-road costs.

Yamaha announces production of compact electric hypercar powertrain

Yamaha has announced it will begin production of 350kW electric hypercar motors. According to the Japanese manufacturer, the prototype has an operating voltage of 800V, and its compact construction allows multiple units to be fitted to a single vehicle.

2021 BMW X2 M35i review

The BMW X2 M35i sits atop the X2 line-up. While from the outside it presents as a mini-SUV, this car is more than meets the eye. At its heart lies a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, and it is built on a transverse front-wheel-drive platform – going against BMW’s M institution.

2022 Skoda Kodiaq facelift revealed: RS ditches diesel, Australian launch by December 2021

The 2022 Skoda Kodiaq facelift has been unveiled, ahead of an Australian launch by December 2021. Four and a half years after the Kodiaq was first unveiled, Skoda's seven-seat SUV has come in for its mid-life facelift, gaining revised exterior styling, interior technology tweaks, and a big change under the bonnet for the burly RS range-topper.

2021 Toyota Mirai price and specs: Hydrogen-electric car offered in limited numbers

Australian pricing and specifications for the 2021 Toyota Mirai have been announced. The second-generation Mirai will hit Australian roads first as part of an "extended demonstration program", which will see 20 vehicles leased by Toyota to "pioneering organisations" and business keen on a low CO2 vehicle.

2021 Porsche Taycan review: Turbo and Turbo S

Typical of Porsche, the 0-100km/h claim for the 2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo S is 2.8 seconds. Seems conservative at first consideration. I line up at the start of the straight and run through a familiar launch control sequence. Funnily enough, it’s the same as you would do if you were behind the wheel of a 911 or any other Porsche for that matter. The only difference is the silence.

Senin, 12 April 2021

2021 Toyota Kluger price and specs: All-new SUV picks up hybrid powertrain and safety tech

Full Australian pricing and specifications for the all-new 2021 Toyota Kluger have been released, with the entry-level variant now starting from $47,650 plus on-road costs – up $2800 over the outgoing model. A hybrid powertrain option also joins the range for the first time, as does a spate of new safety tech.

The Holden El Camino?

To most Australians, this looks like a pretty standard Holden HQ ute. But, look closely at the grille and you’ll notice the familiar Chevrolet ‘bowtie’. Nothing strange about that either, as plenty of Chev fanbois in Australia have performed some minor cosmetic surgery on their favourite Holden models, excising the Holden lion and replacing it with the Chevrolet badge. Except, this isn’t one of those minor transplants.

Toyota BZ: Electric concept SUV teased ahead of April 19 reveal

Toyota is gearing up to reveal its first-ever electric vehicle in the modern era, by teasing a sneak peek at a RAV4-sized SUV under its new Beyond Zero (BZ) banner. However, the vehicle slated for reveal at the 2021 Shanghai motor show on 19 April 2021 – and first teased in March 2021 – is just a concept, with the production model to arrive later in 2021.

2022 GWM Baja Snake: The dual-cab Shelby ute

GWM is partnering with American muscle car maker Shelby to produce a ute aimed squarely at the Ford Ranger Raptor. CarAdvice contributor Greg Kable revealed early drawings of a new GWM dual-cab ute, which is expected to be named the Baja Snake.

2021 Hyundai Staria revealed, in Australia by September

The 2021 Hyundai Staria has been revealed in full, ahead of its local launch in July or August 2021. First showcased in official images in March 2021, the Staria will replace the ageing iLoad van and iMax people mover locally, with a futuristic new look, interior technologies on par with Hyundai's passenger car range, and a suite of advanced safety features missing from the current model.

Mercedes-AMG's plug-in hybrid system self-charges while drifting

Mercedes-AMG has confirmed its high-performance plug-in system self-charges while sliding. Mercedes-AMG hybrid engineer, Jochen Schmitz explains the importance of conserving energy – with drifting a key method.

Toyota HiLux diesel isn’t dead, but a hybrid option is coming … eventually

The Toyota HiLux diesel – Australia’s top-selling vehicle for the past five years in a row and on track for a record sixth victory – is not in danger of extinction despite rumours of a switch to hybrid power. That’s the message from Toyota Australia’s sales and marketing boss Sean Hanley.

Isuzu storms the beaches, replaces Holden at Surf Life Saving Australia 

Isuzu utes and four-wheel-drives will help keep the nation’s beaches safe over the next three years after a deal was signed to replace longtime sponsor Holden, which left Australia at the end of last year. Isuzu Ute Australia will donate approximately two dozen D-Max utes and MU-X four-wheel-drives to help patrol more than 300 beaches nationally.

Rest in peace: Last Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo highway patrol car hands in its stripes

The Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo has reached the end of its run as a highway patrol car in Australia after almost two decades of service across four generations of Falcons. The final example – a marked sedan attached to Surry Hills highway patrol near the Sydney CBD – handed in its stripes on 31 March 2021 after clocking up 86,156km over four years.

2021 Kia Cerato GT facelift leaked, interior revealed in new images

The 2021 Kia Cerato has leaked yet again, with the latest round of images revealing its cabin in full, and providing our first glimpse at the performance-focused GT.

2021 Hyundai i30 Sedan N Line manual review

As more and more carmakers continue the drift away from manual gearboxes, it’s refreshing to hop into an all-new model and be faced with three pedals and a gearboxes that requires you to do the hard yards. The 2021 Hyundai i30 N Line Sedan is a case in point. It doesn’t quite stand alone in being offered with a manual gearbox in the small car segment, but its rivals can be counted on just about one hand.

GWM set to announce big pick-up to rival Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado

GWM could be about to announce plans to enter the full-size ute segment to compete with the likes of the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado. Shadowy teaser images, together with spy pictures posted to Korean website Autospy, show the large GWM pick-up undergoing cold-weather testing, uncovering the Chinese car maker's plans ahead of the Shanghai motor show later this month.

MG Cyberster electric concept revealed

The first images of the MG Cyberster have been revealed ahead of its unveiling at the Shanghai motor show starting 19 April 2021. The electric concept car – which was penned by MG Advanced Design Centre in London – takes a number of design cues from the iconic MGB convertible. While full details will be announced in the coming weeks, MG says the Cyberster uses a fully-electric architecture offering 800km of range and a 0-100km/h time of less than three seconds.

2007-2010 BMW X5 and X6 recalled due to electrical fault

BMW Australia has issued a recall of 16,850 examples of 2007 to 2010 (MY2007-10) E70 X5 and E71 X6 models due to a potential issue with an electric plug. The recall notice, lodged with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says the plug connection from the wiring harness to the blower controller may deteriorate over time, causing a short circuit or overheating. BMW is contacting owners to organise inspection and repair of the defect.

2021 Citroen C5 X revealed, Australian launch under consideration

The 2021 Citroen C5 X has been officially revealed – and it could come to Australia. Twin under the skin to Peugeot's 508 sedan and wagon, the new, third-generation C5 is the latest in a long line of flagship Citroen models (though this time there's no full-size C6 to sit above it) – albeit with a twist.

2021 Lexus ES update confirmed for April 19 reveal

The 2021 Lexus ES will be treated to its first major update next week, it has been announced. Lexus has confirmed an updated version of its ES mid-size sedan will be unveiled at the Shanghai motor show later this month. However, it's unclear whether next Monday will see the debut of a formal mid-life facelift – albeit an early one, given the ES is only approaching its third birthday – or a Model Year running update, as applied recently to the LC and RC coupe and UX small SUV.

Minggu, 11 April 2021

2021 MG ZST Essence review

Within the range of options in the very busy small-SUV segment in Australia, the 2021 MG ZST Essence certainly looks complete. The styling is rather appealing, and there are no oddball touches or out-there flourishes. It’s a people-pleaser. Perhaps the most pleasing aspect is the price. The top-spec ZST Essence you see here is sharply priced from $32,990 drive-away, or with the Brighton Blue metallic paint (or available Sonic Silver) is just $500 extra.

Mini begins to outlay electric plans, could reintroduce Minor nameplate – report

Mini’s future plans are already coming to fruition, as its parent company BMW is set to spearhead the British brand’s electric transformation with a new super-compact electric light hatch, a larger Countryman crossover SUV and a new long-range people mover. British publication Autocar reports the current Mini three-door hatch and its five-door counterpart will be replaced, as well as the Convertible and Clubman models.

Dieselgate: Volkswagen loses appeal, Australian Federal Court upholds $125 million fine

Volkswagen has lost a Federal Court appeal against a $125 million fine handed down in the wake of the 'Dieselgate' saga. Volkswagen and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) had originally agreed to a $75 million fine, but in December 2019 the Federal Court described the fine as "manifestly inadequate", increasing it to $125 million.

Victoria flicks the switch on mobile phone detection cameras, is Queensland next?

Authorities in Victoria will soon start issuing fines of up to $496 and four demerit points from mobile phone detection cameras – joining NSW which was the first jurisdiction in the world to adopt the technology. Following the successful rollout in NSW, the state of Victoria had been trialling mobile phone detection cameras since July 2020.

2022 Skoda Octavia Sportline revealed, Australian launch due early 2022

The 2022 Skoda Octavia Sportline has been revealed, ahead of its Australian launch from the start of 2022. Slotting into the Octavia line-up between the standard Style and high-performance RS, the Octavia Sportline follows in the tracks of Skoda’s larger Kodiaq and Karoq Sportline models in pairing sportier exterior and interior styling with milder engines under the bonnet.

2021 Toyota Mirai: Australia’s first hydrogen car on sale to the public ‘within a couple of years’

Australians will be able to buy a hydrogen-powered car within “a couple of years” – as soon as enough refuelling points are installed so motorists aren’t left stranded. Japanese car giant Toyota and South Korean conglomerate Hyundai launched hydrogen-car fleet trails in Australia within days of each other earlier this month – though the latter was first to register its fleet locally.

2022 Ford Ranger caught testing on NSW roads: Four prototypes stop for KFC

The 2022 Ford Ranger is another step closer to showrooms, with four prototypes spotted testing on the roads near Nowra on the NSW south coast. Images published on Facebook over the weekend confirmed numerous sightings in the area since last Friday. It appears the Melbourne-based engineering team stopped for lunch in a car park across the road from fast food outlet KFC.

2021 Mini Cooper SE review: 100km/h driving range tested

Do not adjust your sets. Yes, it is the same 2021 Mini Cooper SE, and yes it is the same ‘will it meet the range claim’ premise we put to the test last year. But, based on your feedback, this time we’re trying things a little differently.

Video: 2021 Mazda MX-30 M-Hybrid First Drive Review

We've been waiting a while in a COVID-19 world, and finally we get to test Mazda's new MX-30 in hybrid trim.

2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series: Engine outputs, model range leaked – report

New details of the 2022 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series have emerged, ahead of its reveal later this year – and it appears likely it will adopt turbo diesel V6 power despite speculation from some media outlets an inline six-cylinder diesel from Mazda would be adapted.

2021 Haval Jolion price and specs: $27,990 drive-away for tech-packed SUV

Full Australian pricing and specifications for the 2021 Haval Jolion have emerged, with the first examples en route to local showrooms. Two Jolion variants will initially be offered locally, badged Lux LE and Ultra LE, with both models branded under the Launch Edition banner and limited to just 300 units combined across Haval showrooms nationwide.

2021 Toyota Kluger due in Australia in June, hybrid inbound

The 2021 Toyota Kluger seven-seat SUV will arrive in Australia by the middle of the year, with hybrid power to be offered for the first time. Toyota Australia has confirmed the new-generation Kluger will go on sale locally in June, just slotting into the first-half 2021 arrival timing announced in May 2020.

Sabtu, 10 April 2021

Mark Webber's favourite driving road

Who needs the French Alps when you've got lush hinterland and crystal clear beaches in your very own backyard? Porsche ambassador and former F1 driver, Mark Webber certainly doesn't. In fact he praises his native Australia and shares his all-time favourite driving loop through the high hills that fringe Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

2022 Toyota GR 86 Convertible rendered: New sports coupe gets the angle-grinder treatment

A convertible variant of the Toyota GR 86 and twin under the skin Subaru BRZ has long been rumoured – now we know what one could look like. Following its recent and highly-publicised launch, our in-house Photoshop whiz Alex Misoyannis took the liberty of rendering a roofless rendition of the all-new sports coupe. This interpretation retains the car's existing 2+2 seating layout, and sees a retractable soft-top stored above the boot. The front fascia and lower rear-end are unchanged.

Ford Crown Victoria getting a 27-litre V12 tank engine swap

General Motors' LS-series V8 engine has been a popular swap for a long time for those wanting easy and reliable power – but what do you do if you want to be a little different? One car builder in Sweden has decided his Ford Crown Victoria should instead be fitted with a 27-litre Rolls-Royce 'Meteor' V12, borrowed from a World War Two-era tank. Speaking to US publication Road & Track, Daniel Werner said the project was born from the heart, rather than the head.

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series approved by WHO as vaccine transporter

The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series has been certified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to transport COVID-19 vaccines, thanks to a medical-grade refrigerator. With some vaccines needing to be kept at constant low temperatures to be effective, Toyota has partnered with B Medical Systems to fit a fridge in the back of the LandCruiser Troopcarrier, to help get the vaccine to some of the most remote parts of the world.

2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS review

Blessed be the gods of displacement. German carmaker Porsche neutered the once great Cayenne GTS, stripping it of its 4.8-litre V8 heart and soul, and replacing it in 2015 with a 3.6-litre twin-turbo V6. Sure, the new V6 was more powerful than its V8 predecessor, but it lacked the personality of the older V8, castrating what was once a theatrical response to the idea of a performance SUV.

Jumat, 09 April 2021

Video: 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Review

Turbo – it’s a word that carries a sense of reverence whenever it sits on the shapely derriere of a Porsche – and in the case of the 2021 911 Porsche Turbo, it also asks a question that relates to another letter. Do you really ‘need’ an ‘S’… ?

Around the tracks: YouTuber jumps a Lamborghini Urus over an Aventador

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?

Iconic Caterham sports car brand sold to Japanese conglomerate

Iconic British sports car brand Caterham has been bought-out by Japanese automotive distributor VT Holdings for an undisclosed price. Caterham – which began selling its famous Lotus-derived lightweight 'Seven' model in 1972 – today builds approximately 500 cars per year. According to the manufacturer, these production figures are not expected to change dramatically as a result of the sale.

Michelin looks to hydrogen future to diversify business

French tyre giant Michelin is looking to diversify its business pursuits, announcing plans to expand into hydrogen. Michelin says it wants to increase its revenue by around 65 per cent by 2030, equating to around €14 billion (AU$22B) annually – and will do so by moving outside of its traditional tyre manufacturing operations. The company has set up a joint venture with French auto parts maker Faurecia, known as Symbio, to specialise in hydrogen technology.

Gallery: 2022 Mini John Cooper Works Convertible tours a German coastline

When Mini took the wraps off the second facelift for its staple 3-Door Hatch, 5-Door Hatch and Convertible models in January, fans of the brand likely noticed one odd omission from the brand's media materials: the hero John Cooper Works variant.

2021 Kia Seltos Sport+ AWD review

The Kia Seltos is quickly becoming one of the brand's most sought-after cars. An all-important offering in the Kia SUV portfolio, the Seltos is captivating, edgy, and developed by a brand that was once a challenger and is now a mainstay. Arriving in late 2019, the Seltos has proved its worth and managed to stand tall in a crowded small-SUV segment. Sales in 2020 were impressive, with the Seltos managing to finish the year in a respectable third in its segment.

2021 Haval H6 price and specs: Mid-size SUV priced from $30,990 drive-away

Full Australian pricing and specification details for the 2021 Haval H6 have emerged, ahead of the mid-size SUV's local launch in the coming days (early April). As reported in March 2021, three variants of the new H6 will be offered in Australia across Premium, Lux and Ultra model grades, with prices spanning from $30,990 drive-away to $38,990 drive-away – undercutting both its mid-size SUV rivals, and many from the class below.

Nissan developing Juke-sized electric SUV – report

Nissan will launch a compact Juke-sized electric SUV spun off the same platform as the upcoming all-electric Ariya, according to a new report from Auto Express. The model will reportedly be underpinned by the Nissan-Renault Alliance’s new CMF-EV modular EV architecture, currently exclusive to the mid-size Ariya and upcoming Renault Megane small crossover.