2025 Peugeot 3008 Hybrid review
Things are changing at Peugeot Australia and the first in a fresh suite of new models from the French brand is the third-generation Peugeot 3008 mid-sized SUV. Bringing an all-new, almost coupe-like SUV design, plus a new-generation i-Cockpit curved infotainment array and more advanced STLA Medium underpinnings, this car was originally meant to launch in […]
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Another small sedan axed in Australia
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed it’s discontinuing the A-Class sedan in Australia, with the hatchback counterpart remaining on sale for the time being. Prospective A-Class sedan buyers can no order a new example directly from the factory. “We can confirm that the A-Class sedan can currently be ordered from existing stock in Australia, built-to-order has been closed,” […]
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Mazda BT-50 bump steer issue fixed, saga resolved
Mazda Australia claims to have resolved the bump steer issue which afflicted its BT-50 ute up until the end of 2023, with changes to steering alignment proving successful. Mazda was forced to update the popular BT-50 after owners of its ute and the Isuzu D-Max ute and MU-X SUV upon which it’s based complained about […]
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2025 GWM Cannon Alpha price and specs: Ute gets BYD Shark-hunting PHEV option
The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV has been locked in and priced for Australia, becoming the second plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute in local showrooms. It’ll be sold alongside the existing turbo-diesel and hybrid-petrol Cannon Alpha lineup, priced from $63,990 drive-away in Lux guise and $68,990 drive-away in flagship Ultra trim. The latter is just $4000 more […]
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2025 Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV review
The Kia Sorento range is one of the most diverse large SUVs in terms of its powertrain offerings, with petrol V6, diesel four-cylinder, petrol-electric hybrid (HEV), and petrol plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions available. WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2024 Kia Sorento GT-Line HEV AWD All of them have seven seats and plenty of sophistication, […]
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China’s Zeekr wants to know which cars you want it to sell
Zeekr Australia only sells two models at the moment, with a third on the way, but it’s planning to show off overseas-market models locally to gauge interest. The Zeekr X small SUV and Zeekr 009 people mover will be joined in October or November by the Zeekr 7X mid-sized SUV, which will be the “main […]
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Australia’s worst-selling SUVs of 2024
SUVs accounted for 56.9 per cent of the Australian new-car market last year, but not every SUV was a winner. For every hugely popular model like the Toyota RAV4 or Ford Everest, there were a number of considerably less popular vehicles. For this exercise, we’ve looked at VFACTS sales data for 2024, which includes most […]
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Zeekr 009 vs Mansory Rolls-Royce Cullinan
This is probably something you weren’t expecting to see – a Mansory-modified Rolls-Royce Cullinan drag racing a battery-electric Zeekr 009 people mover. It’s Great Britain taking on China to see which is quickest down the quarter-mile. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great […]
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Nissan e-Power technology a hit with Aussie car buyers
Australians are warming to Nissan’s unique take on hybrid powertrain technology, and the Japanese auto brand is looking to further expand its e-Power range as sales increase. The e-Power hybrid system employs the engine under the bonnet solely as a generator for the car’s electric motor/s, providing an EV driving experience without the petrol engine […]
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MG Cyberster vs Aston Martin V12 Vantage drag race
Our drag racing series is back again. This time it’s a convertible showdown between the MG Cyberster battery-electric convertible, and the mighty Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster. Big shoutout to MG for helping us cover the cost of putting this event on. It’s incredibly expensive and resource-intensive to do this type of content, so we […]
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Nissan Juke Hybrid unlikely for Australia
Hybrid versions of the Nissan Juke are no closer to joining the Australian lineup, with an electric successor on the horizon. Nissan’s smallest SUV model Down Under is now in its sixth year of production, after the second-generation light SUV launched in 2019. The Juke Hybrid was revealed in 2022 for the European and UK […]
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It’s about to get a lot easier to find a kerbside EV charger in Australia
Kerbside electric vehicle (EV) charging is being amped up in three Australian states, with new funding announced for the installation of 250 metropolitan and regional chargers. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has committed $2.4 million in funding to EVX Australia for the chargers to be installed in more than 60 local government areas across […]
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2025 Fiat Grande Panda review: Quick drive
Just as Renault has been raiding its back catalogue for inspiration, now Fiat has reimagined one of its most popular models as an electric and hybrid crossover called the Grande Panda. Despite the ‘Grande’ prefix, the new Panda isn’t exactly massive. At 3.99 metres long, it fits right into the compact crossover class, coming in […]
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2025 Volkswagen T-Roc price and specs
The Volkswagen T-Roc is more expensive for 2025, though in base trim it has gained some crucial safety technology. The CityLife, now $2000 more expensive than before at $38,990 before on-road costs, gains standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. It also features the Proactive Occupant Protection System, which tightens the front seatbelts and makes […]
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2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport review
The Toyota HiLux is a vehicle that doesn’t need an introduction. This Thai-built ute was Australia’s top-selling vehicle bar none for seven consecutive years, but for the last two years it has been pipped at the post by the locally developed but also Thai-made Ford Ranger. The current-generation HiLux dates back to 2015, though it […]
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Forget Apple: Chery has iCars, but will it bring them here?
Chery has a sprawling array of brands, and it has filed a trademark in Australia for arguably its quirkiest. iCar, established in 2023, wears a name that sounds like it could have been used for Apple’s aborted vehicle project, but is instead a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brand that specialises in boxy SUVs. A trademark […]
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2025 Skoda Fabia review | CarExpert
The value potential of the latest generation Skoda Fabia has never been realised in Australia, but the most recent addition to the light hatchback lineup promises to change that. Since the fourth-generation Fabia arrived here in 2022, Skoda Australia has only offered it in one high-spec variant that packs a turbo four-cylinder under the bonnet […]
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2025 GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: BYD Shark hunter details leaked
The BYD Shark 6 may have swum to Australia first, but it’s about to face some competition from another popular Chinese brand. Images of the local-spec 2025 GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV have been leaked and they appear to have been taken from the GWM Australia’s public website. Australian media were given the opportunity to drive […]
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2025 Mitsubishi Triton review | CarExpert
The Mitsubishi Triton, especially in its most recent iteration, is an interesting proposition. Despite now having been on sale in Australia for a year, the latest generation Triton is still only available as a dual-cab pickup – single-cab, Club Cab and cab/chassis body styles will follow later in 2025. Nevertheless, you have six automatic-only twin-cab […]
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Australian startup gets government backing to produce revolutionary EV motor tech
The Victorian Government will provide investment towards a new manufacturing facility for a startup which could change the future of electric vehicle (EV) motors. Kite Magnetics was founded in 2021 after CEO Dr Richard Parsons co-developed its provisionally patented nanocrystalline motor/generator core technology, named Aeroperm, at Melbourne’s Monash University. Initially develop with aerospace in mind, […]
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2025 MG ZS Hybrid+ Essence review
The new MG ZS Hybrid+ has hit the ground running since it was released in Australia late last year. A total of 1167 ZS-badged cars (including the ZS EV and ZST) were sold in December, making up over 10 per cent of all small SUV sales, and the second-generation model appears likely to challenge the […]
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Why this luxury car brand thinks 2025 will be a better year for sales
After growing in sales each year since launching in Australia in 2019, Korean luxury brand Genesis finally hit a stumbling block last year. However, it’s expecting to turn things around this year. According to VFACTS figures, Genesis deliveries fell 26.9 per cent in 2024 compared to the year before, with 1400 vehicles reaching customers. This […]
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2025 Toyota HiAce review | CarExpert
The best-selling mid-sized van in Australia needs no introduction – it’s a staple in the segment, and it wears an all-too-familiar badge. Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in July 2024, as there have been no major changes to specifications in the past six months since publication, save for some […]
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Genesis planning Australian retail expansion
Since its local launch in 2019, Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis has stuck with a small but growing network of factory-owned retail locations – something that has limited its geographical and therefore commercial footprint. Now, it’s altering its strategy to help it get more people into its cars, with its existing factory-owned locations to be joined […]
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Nissan launches Australia’s longest new-car warranty – with a catch
Nissan now holds the title of offering Australia’s longest new-car warranty, but it comes with conditions akin to one of its fellow Japanese brands. All new Nissans sold in Australia from January 1, 2021 will continue to be covered by the brand’s standard five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, however, owners will be able to extend this to […]
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2025 Volkswagen Tiguan range detailed for Australia
The third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is arriving in Australia in May, when the all-new mid-sized SUV range will once consist of five variants. Volkswagen Australia will release pricing closer to the new model’s local launch. For now, it’s touting the fresh look inside and out, and the addition of a raft of new features to the […]
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What’s the future of Genesis’ BMW 3 Series rival?
The Genesis G70 is the brand’s oldest and slowest-selling model in Australia, and while it has been spared from the chopping block globally it’s unclear what its next chapter will be. “It’s up to the market, still we don’t kill it. Still we don’t announce what the next-generation G70 looks like,” Genesis global boss Mike […]
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Chinese brands will double their Australian market share this year – analysts
China is now the third-largest importer of new vehicles in Australia, and it doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon. Last year, 210,113 new cars made in China were delivered to Australian customers, representing just under 17 per cent of the 1,237,287 total deliveries made in the record 2024 market. It’s a sharp increase […]
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Next-generation Apple CarPlay delayed | CarExpert
Apple has opted against updating the launch timeline for its next generation of CarPlay smartphone mirroring technology, which was originally slated to launch in 2024. Sweeping changes and upgrades to Apple CarPlay software were expected to be rolled out last year, but the tech giant went quiet on the project and ultimately abandoned those plans. […]
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2025 Volkswagen Golf: Refreshed Australian lineup detailed
The Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf is due to arrive in Australia from April, when the facelifted German hatchback will become available in six model variants. It’s been a year since the updated Golf was revealed in Europe, and now Volkswagen Australia has locked in features and specifications for the local range – but pricing is yet […]
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2025 Ford Everest review | CarExpert
The Ford Everest is really starting to hit its stride in Australia. Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in July, as there have been no major changes to pricing for specifications in the past six months since publication, save for some minor 2025.25MY changes announced in November. We have updated key […]
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Why the first twin-turbo Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 sold for $6 million
The first production Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will also likely be the most expensive, after it sold for an eye-watering US$3.7 million (A$5.92 million) at a US auction. Chevrolet’s new flagship sports car hasn’t reached showrooms yet, but NASCAR’s most successful team owner and car collector Rick Hendrick paid the exorbitant sum for the right to […]
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2025 Cupra Ateca V review
Cupra is set to launch updated versions of its Leon hatchback and Formentor crossover soon, but it has also introduced a new entry-level version of the oldest model it currently offers in Australia, the Cupra Ateca mid-sized SUV. The Ateca helped launch the sporty Volkswagen Group-owned brand Down Under in 2022, pre-dating other nameplates in the current […]
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When every car brand is going EV-only
Electric vehicles (EVs) have increased in popularity in recent years, with motorists recognising the benefits of the zero tailpipe emissions technology. With demand having cooled slightly in key markets in recent months, many car brands that have previously set ambitious plans to ditch petrol and diesel engines in the coming years have subsequently adjusted their […]
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2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport review
The Land Rover Discovery Sport deserves to be more popular in Australia, but times are tough. Despite being the most attainable model in the Land Rover and Range Rover stable, and the fact it competes in the hottest part of the market – mid-sized SUVs – it’s strange that it’s not selling as well as […]
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The top five best-selling mid-sized SUVs of 2024
Mid-sized SUVs have long been Australia’s most popular new-vehicle type, last year chalking up over 80,000 more sales than the next biggest market segment, 4×4 utes. Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid AWD SUVs in general found a total of 704,557 new homes in 2024, for a market share of 56.9 per cent, with mid-sized SUVs accounting […]
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2025 Chery Omoda E5 EX review
As more carmakers enter Australia’s new-vehicle market, newer and less well-established auto brands are really having to fight for the limelight. The latest example of this is Chery, which relaunched itself in Australia in 2023 with the Omoda 5, a compact SUV that has since spawned a battery-electric version. Released in September 2024, the Omoda […]
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How Leapmotor plans to stand out from the crowd in Australia
China’s Leapmotor is one of a many new carmakers begging for Australian’s attention with tech-heavy electrified vehicles. It has just launched locally with the C10, which is an electric mid-size SUV rival to the likes of the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV5, Deepal S07, and Xpeng G6, among others. Speaking with CarExpert, Andy Hoang, head […]
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2025 Renault Koleos Zen review
The current-generation Renault Koleos went on sale in Australia close to a decade ago. That means it’s one of the oldest models on sale in the highly competitive mid-sized SUV segment – and there are promotional deals that reflect that. If you’re shopping for a Koleos, you’ll notice there are often special offers that will […]
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When fledgling Chinese brand Leapmotor’s next SUV is coming to Australia
Although Leapmotor just launched in the Australian market with its Tesla Model Y-rivalling C10 mid-size electric SUV, attention is already shifting to what’s coming next. In October 2024 the Chinese carmaker revealed the B10 small electric SUV, which is a rival to the likes of the BYD Atto 3 and Chery Omoda E5, at the […]
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2025 Hyundai i30 Hatch N Line Premium review
After a brief hiatus, the Hyundai i30 Hatch has been back on sale in Australia for a few months now, and it comes with some distinctive European flair. South Korean production of this model ceased back in 2023 and it’s now only being produced in Czechia, like the high-performance N hatch variants. This means it […]
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2025 Ford Ranger Wildtrak X: Rugged ute returns to bridge the gap to Raptor
The Ford Ranger Wildtrak X is returning to Australia, giving buyers a more off-road-ready version of the top-selling ute without having to shell out for a Raptor. Deliveries of the Wildtrak X will begin during the first quarter of 2025, with just 750 examples earmarked for Australia. It’s priced from $77,640 before on-road costs, just […]
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2025 Xpeng G6 Long Range review
There has been a lot of hype in the world of electric vehicles, especially when it comes to the Xpeng G6 – and with good reason. It’s one of the more affordable mid-sized electric SUVs on the market, has a huge focus on technology and quality, and a thoughtful cabin design that leaves you wanting […]
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Donald Trump’s executive orders put EVs, trade agreements in the crosshairs
Donald Trump’s first day in his second term as US President was a busy one, signing almost 50 executive orders in front of a public audience. A number of the executive orders were signed to repeal actions by former President Joe Biden, who led the country for the four years in between President Trump’s two […]
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2025 Ford Mustang GT Fastback review
Ford’s iconic pony car lives on for another generation. After numerous delays, first customer deliveries of the seventh-generation S650 Mustang began in Australia late last year. Nonetheless, the latest pony car brings fresh looks inside and out, as well as new tech, while retaining its bellowing Coyote V8 engine. Yes, that’s right, the bent eight […]
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BYD Shark 6 towing upgrade on the cards
The BYD Shark 6 may be Australia’s first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute, but the technology-packed dual-cab can’t do what most of its competitors can. Shortly after Australian deliveries of the Shark 6 began, owners took to online forums to note their inability to use cruise control while towing with the PHEV ute. Though it was […]
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2025 Honda HR-V review | CarExpert
Honda’s smallest SUV is a unique choice in Australia’s modern automotive market. Available in only three variants – one petrol, two hybrid – it remains a sensible alternative to something a little bigger like Honda’s own ZR-V, and like that model it has the advantage of being available with a refined hybrid powertrain. It’s also […]
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Genesis expands Australian retail network with its biggest showroom yet
Korean luxury brand Genesis is opening its largest retail space yet in Australia. The new Genesis Sydney Showcase replaces the old Parramatta Test Drive Centre. It’s located on Parramatta Road in North Strathfield. The company will celebrate its opening with customers and invited guests on January 29, with global Genesis boss Mike Song and motor […]
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2025 BYD Dolphin Dynamic review
The entry-level BYD Dolphin Dynamic hatch is one of the cheapest electric vehicles (EV) in Australia, not that you’d know by looking at the standard equipment list. Despite a price tag of just $36,890 before on-road costs, the Dolphin Dynamic wants for little, packing a panoramic glass roof, 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and […]
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Considering a Mitsubishi Outlander? Here are some alternatives
The Mitsubishi Outlander has been a family favourite for a number of years now, though competition from its rivals is getting stiffer than ever. Last year a total of 27,613 examples of the Outlander were sold, making it the second top-selling vehicle in its segment, behind only the popular Toyota RAV4. In fact, the Mitsubishi […]
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2025 Lexus LS review | CarExpert
This is the car that started it all for Lexus – well, it’s the direct descendent of said car. Rewind all the way back to 1989 (before I was even born), and many will remember when Toyota shocked the world with the original LS400, a model that then-Toyota Motor Corporation president Eiji Toyoda said was […]
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Mitsubishi is a big car brand in Australia, but for how much longer?
Mitsubishi does a fabulous job of selling cars in Australia, which is all the more impressive given it has withdrawn from China, come close to doing the same in Europe, and is little more than a niche player in the US. This is a brand that didn’t seem to suffer at all from ending local […]
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2025 Jaecoo J8 review: Quick drive
The Chinese new model onslaught shows no sign of abating, and the next instalment of it will see Chery’s lifestyle-focused Jaecoo luxury SUV sub-brand launch in Australia in the first quarter of 2025. The first model it will roll out is the J7 mid-sized SUV, but the range will gradually be fleshed out with both […]
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Honda wants Renault to move out before Nissan moves in – report
Honda and Nissan’s impending merger could come at the cost of the latter’s long-standing partnership with Renault, which may be asked to pack its things and leave before the new alliance begins. Last month, the Japanese carmakers announced plans to merge in mid-2026, after a definitive agreement laying out the specifics of the deal, including […]
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2025 Deepal S07 review | CarExpert
The onslaught of new Chinese car brands and models in Australia continues with the Deepal S07, yet another mid-sized electric SUV to take on the top-selling Tesla Model Y. Joining the longest-running Chinese brand in Australia, GWM, the born-again MG marque, and relative newcomers Chery and BYD, Deepal arrives as an electric vehicle (EV) and extended-range […]
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California man risks his life to save rare Porsche from LA fires
Los Angeles has been ravaged by wildfires which have claimed the lives of at least 25 people and destroyed approximately 12,000 homes, and many residents have rushed to save their most valuable possessions before escaping. That’s extended to vehicles, and while many in fire-ravaged areas like Pacific Palisades had to leave their cars behind, one […]
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2025 Jeep Wrangler review | CarExpert
The Jeep Wrangler has always been an icon. With a lineage that dates back to the original Willys Jeep of the 1940s, this boxy off-roader has looked much the same since the Wrangler model line started life in 1986. Now in fourth-generation JL-series form, which was released in 2017, it has received a mid-life makeover […]
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2026 Skoda Space: Seven-seat electric SUV spied
Skoda’s next seven-seat SUV, featuring electric power, has been spied testing in Europe ahead of an expected 2026 launch. Known for now as the Skoda Space, it was first teased as the Vision 7S concept in 2022, which previewed a 4.9m-long seven-seat SUV. The larger, electric sibling to the Skoda Kodiaq will be the Czech […]
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2025 Volkswagen Touareg 170TDI review
The Volkswagen Touareg is kind of the automotive equivalent of an unbranded designer handbag. How? Well it’s underpinned by the same mechanical bones as the Audi Q7 and Q8, as well as the Porsche Cayenne and the more boutique Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus. It’s not only the MLB evo chassis of Volkswagen’s flagship SUV […]
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Patchy Queensland EV charging network plagued by delays
Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in the vast majority of inland Queensland remain without access to public fast-chargers as the state’s EV charging network continues to be hit by delays and breakdowns. The previous Palaszczuk government began rolling out public EV chargers in July 2017, when the Queensland Electric Super Highway (QESH) was announced as part […]
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2025 Zeekr 7X review | CarExpert
Chinese brand Zeekr has already shown off some impressive new models in our market, with the Zeekr X small SUV and the Zeekr 009 luxury people mover already finding their way into buyer’s driveways. But this model – the mainstream-focused Zeekr 7X mid-sized electric SUV – is arguably the most important model the new tech-led […]
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Man calls police on ‘drunk’ driver… and gets nabbed for drink-driving himself
This driver’s heart may have been in the right place, but his blood-alcohol level sure wasn’t. A 50-year-old motorist in Qualicum Beach, in the Canadian province of British Columbia, has started the new year off badly, after he had his licence suspended and his vehicle impounded for driving under the influence of alcohol. He might […]
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2025 GWM Haval Jolion Lux review
New year… not so new GWM Haval Jolion. Well, that’s not strictly true, as GWM’s range of entry-level SUVs has been revised for 2025 to include a new Ultra petrol variant with more power and standard kit. Pricing is down too, at least until the end of January. However, the rest of the lineup remains […]
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What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
The ink officially dried on the Australian Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) at the start of this year, bringing with it a set of stringent new laws designed to reduce the carbon footprint of the local car market. At its heart, the NVES is an environmental policy targeted at vehicle manufacturers, but the regulations […]
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2025 Land Rover Discovery off-road review
Has the latest Land Rover Discovery lost touch with its heritage and become just another soft-roading SUV, or does it retain some of its ancestral off-road DNA? Introduced in 2017, the affectionately named Disco 5 no longer carries a numerical suffix like its Discovery 3 and 4 predecessors. On test here is the flagship Discovery […]
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The top five best-selling vehicles of 2024
Finalised new vehicle sales data for 2024 has landed, and a familiar group of models topped the charts last year. Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 It’s hardly surprising to see Toyota make the list, nor is the presence of three utes from established brands. Indeed, the only nameplate to drop out of the annual list of […]
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2025 Aston Martin DB12 Volante review
The name’s Wong… James Wong. I’ve been itching to write that in a review forever. Overseas model shown But while I’m a big Bond fan, my experience with Aston Martin until recently was limited to childhood fantasies from video games and films, as well as a quick stint in a DBX a couple of years […]
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2025 Tesla Model Y revealed: Fresh look for world’s best-selling EV
The updated Tesla Model Y has been revealed, with a fresh look but a higher price tag. Australian deliveries are expected to begin in May. Launching first in RWD and Long Range AWD guise, both with Launch Series enhancements, the base price has climbed $7500 to $63,400 before on-road costs. The Long Range AWD is […]
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2025 Cupra Formentor VZe Tribe Edition review
Ahead of the updated Cupra Formentor arriving in the second quarter of this year, we’ve been given this – the Cupra Formentor VZe Tribe Edition. This limited-edition version of the sporty crossover is kitted out with a range of finishes to make it look like the flagship VZx – including 19-inch copper-accented wheels and Petrol Blue […]
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Look out, LDV! Geely bringing electric vans to Australia
Australia’s electric van market is set to expand, with Chinese giant Geely’s Farizon Auto commercial vehicle brand arriving in the coming months. Farizon Auto late last year it announced its expansion into right-hand drive markets such as the UK. That’s now continued with Saudi Arabian-based Jameel Motors signing an agreement to distribute Farizon’s electric vehicles […]
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2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 review
If you go to an American restaurant, you want a big, greasy burger or ribs drenched in sauce, right? Likewise, if you want a big American pickup truck, you want a V8. At least that’s what a vocal contingent online seems to say. But as soon as next year, the Chevrolet Silverado could be the […]
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Chery Tiggo 4 Pro: Australia’s cheapest SUV getting hybrid option
The affordable Chery Tiggo 4 Pro small SUV will soon get a hybrid powertrain Down Under as the Chinese brand readies a raft of electrified models. The confirmation of an electrified version of Australia’s cheapest SUV comes as Chery Australia has provided more specific timing for the already-confirmed plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of the Tiggo […]
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2025 Lexus GX review | CarExpert
There has been a rather big hullabaloo about the new Toyota Prado 250 Series finally landing in Australia, but it’s worth bearing in mind the closely related Lexus GX arrived here first. WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2025 Lexus GX550 Overtrail While the 250 Series is the first all-new Prado in 15 years, this […]
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Australian Government commits to fixing “dangerous” highway as election looms
The Federal Government has announced it will cover the vast majority of funding for much-needed upgrades to Queensland’s most dangerous road, as Australia gears up for an election in the coming months. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese this week announced the Government would provide $7.2 billion of the $9 billion required to upgrade the state’s Bruce […]
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2025 Zeekr X review | CarExpert
The Zeekr X is the first model to come to Australia from this upstart Chinese premium auto brand, and it comes from a good pedigree. Zeekr X RWD shown This compact luxury crossover shares its underpinnings with small electric SUVs like the Volvo EX30 and Smart #1, and offers the choice of a couple of […]
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VFACTS December 2024: Sales bump helps set annual record
December 2024 new-vehicle sales were up even as many Australians struggle with the rising cost of living. A total of 99,666 new vehicles were sold in Australia in December 2024, according to data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and the Electric Vehicle Council. This was an increase of 1.1 per cent. This […]
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2025 Smart #1 Premium review
Smart is back in Australia – but unless you’re a member of Mensa, some of the new technologies in the EV brand’s new small electric SUV range can make you feel dumb. I don’t think of myself as a genius, but I do reckon I know a thing or two about new cars, having driven […]
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Which new car brands coming to Australia are the CarExpert team excited about?
2025 will be a year of change in the Australian automotive industry, with at least 10 new brands set to arrive on local shores in addition to the circa-50 already in showrooms. While there are some players returning after extended breaks from the local market – such as Cadillac and Foton – most will be […]
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2025 Renault Kangoo review | CarExpert
With all the noise around electric vans, you may have missed the news that Renault has reintroduced the petrol version of its small Kangoo delivery van. Having launched the electric Kangoo E-Tech earlier in 2024, the ICE version is now available in a couple of different variants with lower pricing, as well as a host […]
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The automotive trends that need to die in 2025
Trends come in waves, eras even. In the automotive world many manufacturers end up habitually copying each other or daring to be extremely different – both scenarios can result in annoying trends that irk consumers and journalists alike. Here are some of the trends the CarExpert team would like to leave in 2024… William Stopford: […]
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2025 Hyundai Palisade review | CarExpert
How fast things move in the new car market. When I last drove a Hyundai Palisade late in 2022, I was thoroughly enamoured with this boldly styled, smartly packaged SUV. Two years later, it’s still worth recommending, but its lustre has dulled somewhat. That’s not because Hyundai has made any negative changes to its flagship […]
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Genesis EVs recalled | CarExpert
Genesis Australia has recalled 572 electric vehicles (EVs) across the GV60, Electrified GV70 and Electrified G80 model lines, due to a shared fault which can lead to a loss of power. “Due to a software issue in the Integrated Charging Control Unit, the auxiliary 12-volt battery may not charge as intended, resulting in battery drainage […]
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2025 Suzuki Swift Hybrid Plus review
The rugged little Jimny might steal the headlines, but the Suzuki Swift is another iconic model from the Japanese small-car specialist that’s also a bit of a legend in its own right. Since its modern rebirth, the Swift has earned plenty of fans with its solid build quality, sharp sticker price, and enjoyable driving dynamics. […]
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GMA T.33s: Gordon Murray’s ‘affordable’ supercar to become more track focused
Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) hasn’t yet finished building half of its allocated T.50 supercars, but the firm is already looking ahead to producing a more track-focused version of the less-expensive T.33. Speaking to UK magazine Autocar via its ‘My Week in Cars’ podcast, GMA founder Gordon Murray said the carmaker will reveal the T.33s in […]
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2025 Range Rover Velar review
Does every new car need to have a purpose? Ask the Range Rover Velar, and the answer is no. On paper, the British luxury SUV sits in a strange corner of the car world. Smaller than a Range Rover Sport but almost as expensive; bigger than an Evoque but not quite a mid-sized SUV… it’s […]
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The new models the CarExpert team are most excited about in 2025
Australia is set to receive an influx of new and updated models in 2025, and we can’t wait for many of them. Cupra Tavascan Audi Q5 Nissan Ariya Kia Tasman Off-roaders, pickups, sports cars, luxury cars and electric cars are among the many new model types making their way here next year, and we’re excited […]
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Another Australian region to detect cocaine in roadside drug-driving tests
The Australian Capital Territory will become just the third jurisdiction to detect cocaine in roadside drug tests from midnight tonight, in a bid to better protect road users in Canberra. As of January 1, 2025, cocaine will be able to be detected in oral fluid tests conducted at the roadside by police officers. Until now, […]
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This Australian city wants to charge people to work on their cars
Residents of Victoria’s most populous region have to pay upwards of $400 just to work on their own vehicles, after a local government area imposed strict rules around private land use earlier this year. The City of Casey in Melbourne’s south-east, which includes suburbs like Cranbourne and Berwick, requires residents to apply for a private […]
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How the Nissan GT-R was developed by Isuzu truck engineers
The curtain will soon fall on the R35-generation Nissan GT-R, as the ageing supercar-killing coupe nears retirement almost 18 years after it first broke cover. Launched in 2007, the Nissan GT-R was hailed at the time for being on par with contemporary supercars but for a fraction of the cost, further elevating the status of […]
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Dodge Charger to be sold outside North America, Australian plans unclear
The new-generation Dodge Charger is set to be officially sold outside North America, with the carmaker reportedly confirming it’ll go on sale in Europe and the Middle East – but plans for an Australian launch are yet to be announced. Dodge’s parent company Stellantis confirmed the plans to Carscoops, which will see the Charger sold […]
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Every SUV and ute discontinued in Australia in 2024
2024 was a big year for discontinuations. Not only were several long-running models axed, but an entire brand – Citroen – announced it was pulling up stumps. While it wasn’t quite the massacre that 2020 was (when Holden and Infiniti shut up shop) or 2021 (when a new Australian Design Rule killed off several popular […]
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CarExpert’s top five premium mid-sized SUVs of 2024
As the year comes to a close, it’s time to look back on the premium mid-sized SUVs that wowed the CarExpert test team in 2024. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N A host of new electric models have entered the market, while established luxury brands made meaningful improvements to standing ICE models. The result was a crop of upmarket […]
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Top five opinion pieces of 2024
Opinions aren’t hard to come by in the CarExpert offices. All members of our passionate editorial team live and breathe cars, from cheap city runabouts to multi-million dollar exotics, and the industry that surrounds them all. Over the course of 2024 we’ve had the chance to offer up our thoughts on a wide range of […]
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Top five large SUVs of 2024
As the year comes to a close, we’re looking back on the cars that wowed the CarExpert test team in 2024. Kia Sorento This time around we’re focusing on large SUVs, the staple vehicle of families across Australia. New for 2024, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-80 both made a splash on arrival, earning the praise […]
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Turbocharged, lightweight Toyota 86 defected by police
A motorist has been charged by New South Wales Police on multiple counts relating to their unroadworthy vehicle after being pulled over in a modified Toyota 86. On Monday December 23, Auburn Highway Patrol officers observed “most of what was a Toyota 86” driving through Sydney Olympic Park, missing its front bumper and bonnet, and […]
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2025 Jaecoo J7: China’s latest Toyota RAV4 rival spotted in Australia
Chery-owned Jaecoo is one step closer to arriving in Australia, and its mid-size petrol SUV has already been spotted on local roads. This Jaecoo J7 was seen in Brisbane, only a handful of months before customer deliveries are due to begin in the first quarter of 2025 (January to March). It appears this example is […]
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A new Prado and Patrol and an Indian ute: The most-watched videos of 2024
Thanks to you, 2024 was another booming year for CarExpert on YouTube. While numbers don’t tell the whole story, the following figures were enough to find more than a few of us emitting a low, appreciative whistle through tubed lips. In October we raced to over 500,000 subscribers, a gain of 108.7K subscribers from 2023. […]
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Top five light SUVs of 2024
Need an SUV but don’t want it to be too big? There are plenty of options, but naturally it can be difficult to know where to look. Jeep Avenger We’re looking back at our year of reviews and compiling lists of our top-rated vehicles from various segments. This time light SUVs are in the spotlight, […]
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Hertz offering customers to keep cars as it unplugs EVs from rental fleet
Rental car giant Hertz has made it clear that it wants less electric vehicles (EVs) in its US fleet, and it’s adopted an uncommon tactic to try and thin its stock. In January, Hertz announced it would sell 20,000 EVs from its US fleet due to rising depreciation and repair costs and later asked Polestar […]
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The CarExpert team’s favourite cars of 2024
It might sound cliché, but this year was probably CarExpert’s biggest year yet. The team drives so many different cars on any given year, but with so many new vehicles coming to the market – and that’s set to continue in 2025 – it takes a properly good thing to stand out. Here, the members […]
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Ford Escort returns – and it’s not an electric SUV
The Ford Escort has made its official return, and unlike other reborn Blue Oval nameplates, it’s not an electric SUV. Earlier this month, Ford’s “official brand licence partner” Boreham Motorworks unveiled the Escort Mk1 RS, marking the first time the nameplate has been used in more than two decades. According to Boreham Motorworks, its Escort […]
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Donald Trump could overturn California’s petrol, diesel car ban
US President-elect Donald Trump is expected to overturn California’s ban on new petrol and diesel light vehicles from showrooms by 2035, just months after the proposal was approved. In August 2022, California proposed the ban on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in a bid to reduce carbon emissions, with transportation responsible for approximately 50 per […]
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Police continue modified car crackdown with almost two dozen defects
An ongoing police operation targeting illegally modified cars in New South Wales has led to 23 vehicles with alleged links to street racing and anti-social driving being defected. On December 18 and 19, officers from Illawarra Traffic and Highway Patrol teamed up with Transport for NSW compliance inspectors to continue Operation Dissent, following the first […]
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Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 recalled
Hyundai Australia has recalled 3566 examples of the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 electric vehicles (EVs), due to a fault which could lead to a loss of power. “Due to a software issue in the Integrated Charging Control Unit, the auxiliary 12-volt battery may not charge as intended, resulting in battery drainage and loss of […]
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CarExpert’s most-read reviews of 2024
It’s almost Christmas once again! And this year there were plenty of significant new model launches in Australia, and also many that were delayed. There were also several new auto brands that landed Down Under in 2024, so it’s no surprise there was unprecedented interest in our new model tests. CarExpert published almost 500 new […]
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Top five small SUVs of 2024
Small SUVs continued to sell well in Australia throughout 2024, and that meant there were plenty of them for us to review. Nissan Qashqai Ti e-Power As we continue recapping our 2024, we’re compiling the highest-rated cars from across Australia’s most popular new car segments into a list to show you what we liked best. […]
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The CarExpert team’s biggest disappointments in 2024
Another year has almost ticked by in the automotive world, so it’s time to reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly. This year brought some huge new model releases, including three all-new dual-cab 4×4 utes, as well as the axing of several established nameplates, the arrival of more than a few new Chinese […]
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Top five 4×4 utes of 2024
As we continue to count down to the end of 2024, we’re giving you a year-in-review on the cars that took our fancy throughout the year. Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ Continuing on from last week’s mid-sized SUV review wrap-up, we’re moving on to 4×4 utes. It’s the second-largest segment on the VFACTS sales charts by volume, […]
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McLaren Senna vs McLaren 765LT drag race
Our epic drag racing series is back in action! You’re going to see some of the world’s most impressive supercars go head-to-head in drag races across the quarter mile at our regional airport base in Wyalkatchem, Western Australia. We need to give a massive shout out to our mates at Caltex for helping us cover […]
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Chery’s new EV is a baby G-Wagen with an MG 3 price tag
Chinese car giant Chery has detailed the latest electric vehicle (EV) for its iCar sub-brand which seemingly takes inspiration from a bunch of off-road ready 4x4s. Revealed in April, the iCar V23 is the brand’s third EV, and its design is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, Suzuki Jimny, Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series and Land Rover […]
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Lexus axes another petrol model variant in Australia
The Lexus ES range is going hybrid-only in Australia. Following the axing of petrol-powered variants of the UX small SUV earlier this year, Lexus Australia has now dropped the ES250 mid-sized sedan. This was a petrol-powered counterpart to the ES300h hybrid introduced to Australia in 2021. It was the only petrol-powered ES variant offered in […]
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2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid review
The Toyota Corolla needs no introduction… Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in June, as there have been no major changes to pricing for specification in the past six months since publication, bar the discontinuation of petrol models. We have updated key details such as pricing and specifications with the most […]
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LDV D90: The bang for buck hero in the large SUV category
SPONSORED Equipped with the latest multimedia technology, safety equipment and engineering know-how, the LDV D90 is a lot more than just a good buy and a serious value for money proposition in the large SUV category. While the facelifted 2025 D90 range arrives this month with a new look, more powerful petrol engine and circa-$4200 […]
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2025 MG 3 review | CarExpert
MG’s first all-new compact hatch in 15 years has finally arrived in Australia, and it has steep expectations to meet. The outgoing MG 3 – which dates back to 2011 in China, was first released here in 2016, and is still available in runout while stocks last – was for many years Australia’s top-selling light car, […]
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We’re going to need a bigger boat! BYD Shark 6 utes headed for Aussie waters
The first shipment of BYD’s highly anticipated Shark 6 ute to include customer vehicles is en route to Australia, ahead of local deliveries commencing in January 2025. Images out of China show a batch of vehicles preparing to board a ship bound for Australian shores, as BYD endeavours to meet demand for the first plug-in […]
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Leapmotor launches C10 with sharp driveaway pricing
SPONSORED Leapmotor is launching sharper drive-away deals for its new C10 mid-sized electric SUV. The Leapmotor C10 Style is now available from $47,500 drive-away nationwide and this attractive offer applies to stylish Pearl White vehicles, with premium paint finishes available at additional cost. Flagship C10 Design grades starts from $51,500 drive-away for Pearl White vehicles […]
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2025 Toyota Urban Cruiser: New small EV SUV looks very familiar
The Toyota Urban Cruiser has been revealed as the Japanese giant’s latest electric vehicle (EV), but we’ve seen it before. That’s because it’s a lightly restyled version of the recently revealed Suzuki e Vitara, with a new ‘hammerhead’ front-end design to align it with recently launched Toyota models like the Prius and the Chinese-market bZ3X. […]
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2025 Cupra Leon V Tribe Edition review
Cupra wants to lure more Australians into its tribe. The sporty Spanish spinoff brand from the Volkswagen Group sold more than 3700 cars in Australia in 2023, but it’s struggled to hit the same heights so far in 2024. To date, it’s down 30 per cent on the same point last year. Rather than resting […]
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Is the Tesla Cybertruck the future of off-roading?
The Tesla Cybertruck is already a dramatic-looking vehicle, and this year’s SEMA aftermarket show showed this electric ute is ripe for customisation. SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association exhibition, is the world’s premier event for automotive customisation and aftermarket innovation. Held over November 5-8, the 2024 edition once again showcased everything from classic muscle cars […]
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Our favourite cars from movies and TV
If you’re like us, you’ll routinely take note of the cars that appear in your favourite movies and TV shows. 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R – 2 Fast 2 Furious 1963 Aston Martin DB5 – Goldfinger SOURCE: IMCDB Some movies and shows are renowned for their cars, and as car lovers it’s hard not to be enamoured […]
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Toyota steals Ford’s thunder with a raft of special LandCruiser Prados
At last month’s 2024 SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada, all eyes were on Toyota. With Ford stepping down from its prime position within the central hall a couple of years ago, Toyota seized the opportunity and jumped in to make a statement. Now firmly holding this coveted spot, Toyota showcased a lineup of off-road-ready […]
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2025 MG HS Essence vs Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport FWD comparison: Spec battle
Do you have $40,000 to spend on a new mid-sized family SUV? There’s a fair chance you’re considering either one or both of the MG HS and Mazda CX-5. MG HS Mazda CX-5 Why? Well the second-generation HS was launched just a few months ago, receiving a positive reception from critics, while the CX-5 has […]
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Electric BMW M3 teased as quad-motor performance sedan
BMW has released the first teaser images of the battery-powered iM3 super sedan, due to be released in 2028. Rumoured to produce more than 746kW (1000hp) from a quad-motor battery-electric powertrain, the camouflaged iM3 prototype was revealed with near-production bodywork It will be based on the all-new BMW i3 electric sedan, which itself will be […]
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You can now watch YouTube on more Porsche touchscreens
Have you found your passengers are getting bored while riding shotgun in your Porsche? Worry not, because the German brand is now offering YouTube on the in-car screens in five models. Already available on the Macan electric SUV, Porsche has now added YouTube integration to the 911, Cayenne, Panamera, and Taycan. Not only is it […]
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2025 Toyota Tundra review | CarExpert
Toyota finally has a big truck on sale through official channels in Australia, and you’ve gotta really want one to justify the asking price. This large pickup costs more than most of its US-built, Australian-converted rivals, and that is one of its biggest challenges in this market. But there are plenty of other considerations in […]
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Volkswagen’s connected services finally arriving in Australia
Volkswagen is in the process of finally introducing a connected services platform to its Australian vehicles, with its commercial vehicle division getting the technology first. The first vehicles to receive the third-party Connected Cars-operated Goconnect system are the electric ID. Buzz people mover and ID. Buzz Cargo van. This is despite Volkswagen’s initial plans to […]
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Mercedes-AMG SL goes topless in new motorsport-bred PureSpeed roadster
Mercedes-AMG is putting its unique SL-based PureSpeed concept into limited production, with the German carmaker now detailing the racing-inspired, windscreen-less roadster. Unveiled at the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix, the Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed previewed what will now become a limited-run model, with just 250 examples to be made in 2025. The first model in Mercedes-AMG’s Mythos […]
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2025 MG 4 XPower review
There is nothing that’s as fast as the MG 4 XPower for the same kind of money. The battery-electric hot hatch packs a 320kW, 600Nm twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrain, and dispatches the 0-100km/h sprint in a claimed 3.8 seconds, yet costs less than $60,000 drive-away in most states. So the flagship MG 4 is quicker […]
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2026 BYD Dolphin EV gets fresh look, new powertrain
The facelifted BYD Dolphin has been revealed in a Chinese government filing, featuring subtly tweaked styling and a new electric motor option. A Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) filing has detailed the Dolphin’s minor changes, with photos showing its revised front- and rear-end styling. Given it has appeared in a government filing, […]
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2024 Jaguar F-Pace SVR review
Jaguar won’t exist for long as we know it. WATCH: Paul’s video review of the MY22 F-Pace SVR As part of a bold new strategy from parent company JLR, the legendary British marque will no longer compete with BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Instead, it’s gunning for Bentley and Rolls-Royce with a new range of electric cars, […]
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Peugeot’s new SUVs one step closer to Australia, but will they come as EVs?
The next-generation Peugeot 5008 has been approved for sale in Australia with both petrol and electric power, but it’s unclear if the French brand will follow through with the latter. The new 3008, the 5008’s smaller counterpart, has also been approved for sale with both petrol and electric powertrains. Peugeot Australia has confirmed the first […]
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2025 Audi Q5 review | CarExpert
A mid-spec, black on black Audi Q5 is one of the most understated premium SUVs you can buy right now. The second-generation Q5 was revealed back in 2016, and eight years on renewed rivals like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC make it a reminder of what mid-sized luxury SUVs used to be. Under the […]
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The most expensive cars from Australia’s top mainstream brands
Australia’s 10 best-selling brands are just that because they have a range of affordable cars that appeal to mass-market buyers. But we’re sure you’ve wondered how expensive things can get, especially when talking about brands that aren’t known for luxury products and steep price tags. So to satisfy that itch, we’ve taken a look at […]
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2025 GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid off-road review
Is there a market for US-style dual-cab 4×4 ute that’s bigger than a Ranger and smaller than an F-150, but more comfortable and less expensive than both? Cue the GWM Cannon Alpha, the latest 4×4 offering in the Cannon dual-cab ute range. It’s bigger, more luxurious and better appointed, so let’s take a test drive […]
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Arise Racing GT confirms Bathurst 12 Hour assault
Arise Racing GT made its first visit to Australia’s greatest racetrack – Mt Panorama in Bathurst – in November and claimed the Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia championship in its debut season. Now Arise has confirmed it’ll head back to ‘The Mountain’ in January in the search for more trophies. The West Australian-based team, which […]
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2025 Moke review: Quick drive
Australia loves the Moke. Robin Kennedy, chief commercial officer of Moke International, the British-based company responsible for this electric-powered take on a quirky British classic, says at least 20 per cent of the customer enquiries about the car come from Australia. “That’s more than we get from the United States,” he says. Of course, Australia […]
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2026 Hyundai Palisade: Brash new large SUV revealed
The second-generation Hyundai Palisade has been revealed, wearing a fresh new look inside and out. Images published by Hyundai in Korea reveal the interior and exterior of Hyundai’s new flagship combustion-powered SUV, which is also reportedly set to move to a new platform and gain hybrid power for the first time. CarExpert understands it’ll arrive […]
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2025 Skoda Kamiq Monte Carlo review
Skoda has revamped its best-seller in Australia with more than just a fresh face. The Kamiq small SUV range has been scaled back to just two variants – Select and Monte Carlo – following the axing of the previous mid-range Style and top-shelf Signature variants. However, the two remaining variants both pack more standard equipment than before. […]
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2025 Hyundai Tucson: Affordable luxury and cutting-edge tech
SPONSORED While the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson remained a buyer’s favourite from the moment it launched here in 2021, the newly-updated version of the popular mid-sized SUV is discernibly better again across all key areas. Gone is the diesel option and in its place a high-tech hybrid for the first time in Australia, designed to deliver […]
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Australian EV lobby group claims major milestone… with a catch
The Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) claimed a major win today, reporting more than 100,000 electric vehicle (EV) sales in Australia so far this year – which would be a significant milestone for the takeup of battery-powered vehicles in this country. However, the lobby group failed to disclose a major caveat: the figure includes plug-in hybrid […]
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BYD overtakes Ford in global new-car sales
BYD is beginning to show its might as a genuine contender among the world’s established ‘legacy’ carmakers, surpassing Ford to become the sixth best-selling carmaker. Nikkei Asia reports BYD sold 1.13 million vehicles between July and September 2024 (the third quarter of 2024), a record for the carmaker and the first time its global sales […]
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Ford Puma Gen-E: Entry-level electric SUV revealed
Stepping out in a cheery shade of yellow, the new Ford Puma Gen-E is the Blue Oval’s new entry point to electric vehicles in company’s European range. Outwardly, the Gen-E shares all of its body panels with the petrol-powered facelifted Puma that was unveiled at the beginning of this year. 100s of new car deals […]
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Is BYD bringing a cheaper electric SUV to Australia?
BYD has filed to trademark the Atto 3 Up nameplate in Australia, which suggests the Chinese brand is looking to bring a more affordable electric SUV Down Under. The Atto 3 Up trademark suggests this model could be the Yuan Up, an MG ZS EV-sized electric SUV which debuted in China earlier this year; over […]
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2025 Honda HR-V e:HEV: Reinvigorated benchmark sets the standard
SPONSORED The Honda HR-V e:HEV L was already my top pick in the busy small SUV segment when it launched here in 2022, but now there’s a new and even more affordable hybrid option, along with fresh design tweaks, improved tech and more advanced safety kit across the range. While Honda has always offered a […]
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MG 4: Cheaper pricing for EV ending earlier than planned after sales boom
The MG 4 is currently Australia’s cheapest electric vehicle (EV) with a base price of $32,990 drive-away, but this offer is ending earlier than expected – and MG says it won’t be coming back. The special nationwide drive-away offer for the Excite 51 will now end on December 31, 2024 instead of January 31, 2025. […]
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2025 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport review
The Mitsubishi Triton dual-cab ute recently received an extensive generational overhaul, but it seems the closely related Pajero Sport large off-road SUV won’t be replaced for some time. The Japanese brand’s rival to the likes of the Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X has been feeling its age for a while, but this year Mitsubishi gave […]
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Australia’s cheapest cars from luxury brands
Just how little can you spend and still get a new car with a three-pointed star, spinning propeller or four rings on the grille? At just over $36,000 before on-road costs, the most affordable Audi – the A1 30 TFSI – is around $20,000 cheaper than the least expensive BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Volvo. That makes […]
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2025 Toyota Crown review | CarExpert
Although it’s likely to be an unfamiliar nameplate to most Australians under the age of 40, the Toyota Crown has a long-standing local connection as previous generations of Japan’s most popular taxi were sold here for over two decades – from 1964 until 1988. The iconic Toyota sedan was even assembled locally by Australian Motor […]
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The 10 cheapest two-door sports cars in Australia
Nothing gets a car enthusiast’s tongue wagging like a simple, sexy sports car. The recipe is simple – two doors, pulsating performance and dramatic design, without excessive concessions to practicality. Sports cars are rarely volume sellers for the manufacturers that dare to make them, but they are brand building ‘halo’ models for their makers and […]
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2025 Hyundai Venue review | CarExpert
The Hyundai Venue enters 2024 unchanged, aside from a $500 price bump. Note: This article is based on our most recent review of the Venue, as there have been no major changes to pricing or specifications since it was published. We have updated the article with the most up to date information available, and you can […]
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Range Rover Electric: Off-road-ready luxury EV undergoes desert testing
The first electric Range Rover is undergoing testing in the United Arab Emirates, where the brand hopes to push the limits of its battery and powertrain in one of the most electric vehicle (EV)-unfriendly environments possible. Range Rover says the testing program for its electric prototypes is the “most intensive testing” any of its models […]
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2025 Mazda CX-30 review | CarExpert
In the small SUV world, Mazda continues to be a key player. The CX-30 is its primary candidate against the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Crosstrek, alongside which it continues to post respectable sales figures – even if all are lagging behind the MG ZS. To the end of October this year, […]
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Ford Ranger Super Duty: Tougher ute to get F-Series parts
The Ford Ranger Super Duty – a heavier-duty version of the best-selling ute – will benefit from parts shared with the larger F-Series family to cope with its uprated load-hauling figures. Ford has confirmed the Ranger Super Duty will be fitted with eight-stud hubs – sourced from the North American F-250 Super Duty – which […]
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Mazda offering limited-time discounts on key models
Mazda Australia has announced a range of discounts across various models, with six nameplates scoring bonuses ranging from $200 to $1000. Models included in the 2024 Plate Clearance Bonus are the Mazda 2 hatch and sedan, Mazda 3 hatch and sedan, CX-30 SUV, CX-5 SUV, CX-90 SUV and BT-50 ute. Deals on Mazda models are […]
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ANCAP’s latest taxpayer-funded publicity stunt
The Australasian New Car Assessment Program, better known as ANCAP, has today released the results of another crash test that appears to serve very little purpose given it involves a four-year-old model that the taxpayer-funded association already knew wouldn’t achieve its highest rating. Estimated to have cost around $750,000, the test has resulted in ANCAP […]
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2025 Mitsubishi ASX review | CarExpert
We keep expecting the Mitsubishi ASX to expire, and year after year it keeps being renewed. It was launched back in 2010, back when Julia Gillard was our Prime Minister, and has had four facelifts since then – the most recent being in 2019. Yes, this is one old car, easily the oldest in its […]
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Police fine man with unique Toyota LandCruiser cooling solution
New South Wales police have defected what could be one of the most worn-out Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series utes on Australia roads, after its missing driver’s side door hinted at deeper issues. On Tuesday November 26, Dubbo Highway Patrol officers stopped a LandCruiser on the Newell Highway in Brocklehurst, having spotted the ute sans its […]
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2025 Mazda BT-50 review | CarExpert
The Mazda BT-50 continues to fly under the radar of most ute buyers in Australia, as evidenced by its position below the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, Isuzu D-Max, and Mitsubishi Triton in the sales race. That’s a shame, because the BT-50 makes a strong case for itself. In my humble opinion, few dual-cab 4×4 ute […]
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Jeep readying hybrid Toyota RAV4 rival
When Jeep ended production of the Cherokee in 2023, it left one of the most significant SUV segments in the world. It’s now planning to get back into the action. Automotive News reports confirmation from Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa at the Los Angeles motor show that a Cherokee replacement is due in 2025. The report […]
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Toyota pushes on with hydrogen power to keep engines alive
Toyota is one of the few brands still investing in hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, and it says it remains a firm part of its ‘multi-pathway’ solution to automotive decarbonisation. The Japanese carmaker has been developing hydrogen ICE technology alongside hydrogen fuel-cell (FCEV) technology for a while now. The former incorporates a traditional combustion […]
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The hack that gets you access to the Ferrari you actually want
If you’ve ever tried to buy a Rolex, you’ll know that you can buy any Rolex except the one you actually want. No matter how nicely you ask, your spot on the waiting list is unlikely to ever come up if you haven’t bought a Rolex previously through the authorised dealer. It’s a similar story […]
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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid XRT review
Hyundai has added a couple of new off-road focused packages to its popular Santa Fe seven-seat large SUV. WATCH: Paul’s video review of the Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD There are two versions available – XRT Adventure, and XRT Peak – and they are packages that your Hyundai dealership can add to your new car […]
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Porsche has ‘no plans’ for more focused Macan EVs… for now
Porsche is well known for progressively rolling out sportier versions of its already cars and SUVs, but it has given mixed signals as to whether it’ll do the same with the new Macan Electric. Speaking with media, Jörg Kerner – vice president for the Macan product line at Porsche AG – said there are currently […]
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2025 Skoda Octavia RS review: Quick drive
The Skoda Octavia RS has always offered a great mix of everyday usability and practicality, along with a decent turn of pace and smooth handling, so the arrival of a heavily upgraded version is a big deal. For the latest version, a midlife makeover for the fourth-generation model that launched in 2020, the looks have […]
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How pigeons trapped 200 drivers in a carpark
Pigeons have been blamed for the failure of an underground carpark exit gate in Germany, which resulted in 200 drivers trapped inside until the wee hours of the morning. As reported by The Telegraph, a buildup of corrosive pigeon droppings on a control box caused the gate to short-circuit on Wednesday, in turn activating a […]
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2025 Toyota LandCruiser Prado review
Toyota Australia has finally launched its first all-new LandCruiser Prado in 15 years and, as the replacement for Australia’s most popular large SUV until earlier this year when stocks ran out, it has a lot to live up to. The fifth-generation Prado 250 Series is a radical departure from its four predecessors not only in […]
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Lotus the latest brand to walk back EV-only goal, looks to petrol power for assistance
Chinese-owned British carmaker Lotus has scrapped its plans to only produce electric vehicles (EVs) by 2028, as it responds to changing market conditions. Speaking to media including UK magazine Autocar at the Guangzhou motor show, Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng said the brand would instead develop range-extender EVs (EREVs) which use a petrol engine to help […]
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BYD’s Denza brand debuts 710kW electric seven-seat luxury SUV
BYD’s luxury brand Denza has launched one of its most ambitious vehicles yet – an electric seven-seat SUV with 710kW of power, called the N9. Unveiled at the Guangzhou motor show, the electric N9 well and truly fits into the full-sized SUV category, measuring 5258mm long, 2030mm wide, and 1830mm high with a wheelbase of […]
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Tesla Superchargers to amp up with 500kW capacity
Tesla has locked in a 2025 launch for its new V4 Supercharger Cabinet, bring fast charging rates of up to 500kW and support for a wider range of vehicles. The V4 Cabinet – which can supply power to eight individual Supercharger stalls – ups the maximum charging rate from 250kW to 500kW, while the Tesla […]
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2026 Kia Seltos getting EV5 looks, hybrid power
The design language of Kia’s new electric vehicles (EVs) is continuing to trickle down to petrol-powered models, and the Seltos will be the next vehicle from the Korean brand to get a more EV-like look. We’ve seen this recently on the new K4 (Cerato replacement) and Sportage, and now the next-generation Seltos is set to […]
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Walkinshaw rules out more capable Toyota Tundra
Walkinshaw Automotive Group has poured cold water on the prospects of a beefed-up Toyota Tundra for the Australian market. As Toyota’s Australian production partner for the US-built Tundra pickup, Walkinshaw has taken on the task of converting local-market examples to right-hand drive at its facility in Dandenong, Melbourne. Walkinshaw also handles left- to right-hand drive […]
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2025 Toyota Camry SL review
My partner drove the Toyota Camry SL hybrid tested here and didn’t want to give it back. She’s not a car person, but she is exposed to more new cars than most – and when I asked her what she thought it was worth, she answered with a guess of “about $70,000?” WATCH: Paul’s video […]
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2025 Mazda CX-70 review | CarExpert
Mazda’s quartet of new large-platform SUVs is now complete. The fourth and final SUV based on the Japanese brand’s new rear/all-wheel drive ‘Large Product Group’ platform architecture has now arrived in Australia, where it’s being released at the same time as the CX-80. Try not to get confused, because there’s a lot of overlap across […]
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Which car would you want to be driven around in as a world leader?
There may or may not have been a very significant presidential election recently, and it got us thinking. With great power comes great responsibility, and deciding on an appropriate mode of transport is among the many choices a world leader is required to make. As well as providing comfort and security, the cars associated with […]
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Toyota Prado: No retro round headlights for Australia for now
The Toyota LandCruiser Prado 250 Series has much boxier, retro-inspired styling than its predecessor, though there’s one feature Australians are missing out on with the new-generation SUV. At its reveal the Japanese carmaker showed off a Prado 250 Series that features classic, round headlights, compared to the more modern-looking rectangular units. Other markets such as […]
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2025 Lexus ES facelift revealed in China
A nip-and-tucked Lexus ES sedan has been unveiled in China sporting a revised grille and lights, as well as a much larger touchscreen in the cabin. Up front there’s a new insert for the spindle grille that has horizontal slats instead of vertical ones, redesigned headlight internals with double L-shaped driving lights, and larger fake […]
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Deals like these make servicing your older Audi at an official dealer a no-brainer
Servicing older European vehicles after their original factory warranty expires can be a worrying and sometimes expensive prospect for those who still enjoy driving their pride and joy, except if it’s an Audi. The iconic German luxury brand, known for its four-ring logo and quattro all-wheel drive system, offers the perfect solution with its Audi […]
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How much duct tape do you need to destroy a Lambo?
If you’ve spent any time on YouTube, you’ll no doubt have heard of MrBeast. The mega-rich internet personality, otherwise known as Jimmy Donaldson, is famous for his videos of various high-stakes gameshow-style challenges, though one of his latest upload may well be the most cringeworthy yet for supercar fans. In the 14-second long clip, MrBeast […]
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2025 BYD Sealion 7 review: Quick drive
If the BYD Sealion 6 is a bit too normal for your liking, and you’d prefer a mid-sized SUV that’s a little sportier and has an all-electric powertrain rather than a plug-in hybrid, then the Sealion 7 should be on your wish list. As the name suggests, there’s more than a passing family resemblance between […]
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2025 Hyundai Inster price leaked, flagship to start under $40,000 drive-away
The Hyundai Inster will be priced from less than $40,000 across all variants when the all-new electric vehicle (EV) arrives in Australia early next year, according to leaked pricing first spotted on the Whirlpool online forum. As a sponsor of The Big Trip – a new TV show on the Seven Network – Hyundai is […]
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Sixth annual Hyundai N Festival already a sell-out
The sixth annual Hyundai N Festival is just over three weeks away, but if you haven’t already booked in for the unique opportunity to experience your N-car at full noise around a racetrack, you’re too late. All on-track participation slots are now fully spoken for ahead of the 2024 Hyundai N Festival, to be held […]
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2025 Cupra Tavascan: Everything we know about the sporty electric SUV
Cupra – the sporty Spanish subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group – has drip-fed the latest set of details for its upcoming Tavascan electric SUV for Australia. Due to arrive in Australian showrooms around February-March ahead of deliveries commencing in April (a few month after its initial October-December 2024 projection), the Cupra’s local outpost has confirmed […]
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2025 Porsche Taycan price and specs
The updated Porsche Taycan range has landed in Australia, priced from $175,100 plus on-road costs. UPDATE, 13/11/24: Porsche has announced the Taycan 4 sedan and Taycan GTS for the updated lineup. They’re due in the first half of 2025, and our original article from August has been updated accordingly. As before, there are Taycan and […]
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Volvo keeping sedans alive with new EV… even in Australia
Volvo will reveal its first electric sedan early next year, and it’s set to come to Australia. “[The] ES90 will make its global debut in March, 2025 in Stockholm, Sweden and is expected to hit Australian shores in late 2025,” the company says on its Australian website. The BMW i5-rivalling sedan is understood to be […]
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Australia’s first flying car now ‘on sale’
Incoming Chinese carmaker Xpeng has confirmed it’s now taking orders in Australia for its X2 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) ‘flying car’ – but there are some pretty significant caveats. Unveiled at the Sydney International EV AutoShow on the weekend, following similar appearances at the Tokyo motor show in October and in China prior […]
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Driver caught committing insurance fraud on dashcam faces jail time
The driver of a car who intentionally brake-checked and reversed into another vehicle has been charged on multiple counts – all thanks to the victim’s dashcam. Last month, Ashpia Natasha was driving her Acura SUV on the Belt Parkway in Queens, New York City when a Honda Civic entered her lane, violently braking in front […]
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Nissan to cut jobs, reduce Mitsubishi stake as profits evaporate
With a net loss of ¥9.3 billion ($92.5 million) in the quarter just gone by, and operating profits down 85 per cent compared to this time last year, Nissan has announced a series of measures to “stabilise and right-size the business”. The company will reduce its production capacity by 20 per cent, which will result […]
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All the EVs coming to Australia in 2025
2024 is drawing to a close and while there are still a handful of electric vehicle (EV) launches to come before December 31, there’s a much larger slate planned for the new year. That includes not only new and updated versions of existing nameplates, but also the arrival of new auto brands to the Australian […]
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Where the Ford Ranger ranks among Australia’s best-selling cars since 1997
The Ford Ranger looks set to become Australia’s best-selling new vehicle for 2024, barring a miracle for the Toyota RAV4 which has topped the sales charts in five out of 10 months so far this year. To the end of October, Ford has delivered 53,119 Rangers (both 4×2 and 4×4) to Australian customers, an increase […]
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Mazda CX-80 vs Kia Sorento comparison: Spec battle
Mazda’s all-new CX-80 is arriving in Australia, launching as part of the brand’s wider range of large SUVs that includes the CX-60, CX-70, and CX-90. Mazda CX-80 Kia Sorento It’s coming to rival other established seven-seaters, with the Kia Sorento taking the stand as a key competitor as a result of the shared seven-seat capacity […]
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The 10 cheapest new manual cars you can buy in Australia
Cars with manual transmissions haven’t been the mass-market choice for some time now, but that doesn’t mean they’re extinct. Those in the market for a sports car, for example, may want to opt for a manual transmission for the adjusted driving dynamics they offer. Some such cars still allow you to do that without hassle, […]
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2025 Volvo EX40 price and specs: Electric XC40 gets a new name
The Volvo XC40 Recharge has been renamed to EX40 for 2025 and beyond, with the updated electric SUV now arriving in Australia with greater driving range and a wider lineup. By being sold as the EX40, the SUV is aligned with Volvo’s naming structure for its electric vehicles (EVs) – which includes the EX30 and […]
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2025 Mahindra XUV700 review | CarExpert
The Mahindra XUV700 has taken a step to the dark side. This new seven-seat mid-sized SUV is the latest model from the Indian carmaker to gain a blacked-out trim level. In this particular instance it’s a feature-packed new flagship variant designed to garner more attention alongside top-selling rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail. […]
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How will Donald Trump’s presidency affect Australia’s car industry?
Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th president of the United States, returning to the Oval Office four years after he last held the position. His return to power has been one of controversy, with his opponents putting an emphasis on how the now 78-year-old will handle his second presidency, and what it means […]
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2025 Volkswagen Touareg review | CarExpert
The Volkswagen Touareg has a new lease on life. Sure, it looks similar to the pre-update model, and it’s packing the same engine as before under the bonnet. The cabin has been tweaked rather than overhauled, and there’s very little change about how it drives. But… Volkswagen has given the Touareg a major price cut. […]
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Kia Tasman being eyed by Australian tuning firms
It seems you can’t sell a ute in Australia without offering an even more offroad-ready version worked over by a local engineering business. Premcar developed the Nissan Navara SL and Pro-4X Warrior, while Walkinshaw has been even more prolific in this space, launching the WAU Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max Blade and the defunct Mitsubishi Triton […]
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2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 review
Can you believe the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has already come for its ‘mid-life’ update? It seems as though the quirky electric crossover SUV only went on sale a few months ago, but actually it was years ago. Now, there’s more on offer from the South Korean brand’s first dedicated EV, including the optional N Line […]
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2026 Kia EV2 spied: EV hatch will take on Volkswagen ID.2
Kia’s upcoming EV2 hatch has been spied testing in Europe, ahead of its debut as a more affordable electric vehicle for the continent. Set to rival the Volkswagen ID.2, the EV2 will be built in Slovakia from 2025, with European deliveries commencing in 2026. It’s yet to be confirmed for Australia, where – if it’s […]
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2025 Jaguar I-Pace review | CarExpert
It’s crazy to think that the Jaguar I-Pace is nearing its seventh birthday. When it was revealed and subsequently launched at the tail-end of last decade, the British luxury brand was arguably ahead of its time with a high-performance electric crossover SUV built on a dedicated electric platform. Now, seven years on, it still looks […]
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BYD prioritising SUVs and utes in Australia
Australia’s BYD distributor EVDirect will prioritise adding SUVs and utes to the local lineup as the Chinese brand expands its local presence. In response to strong demand for the Shark 6, Sealion 6 and Atto 3, EVDirect will channel resources into importing new models with high sales potential, according to CEO David Smitherman. “The opportunity […]
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