Seltos pricing for the all-new Kia Seltos HEV, due to hit dealer showrooms this month.

Launching from $39,990 Drive Away, all-new Seltos arrives as a hybrid only, with all variants featuring a 1.6 HEV paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. In a first for Kia Australia’s hybrid lineup, the all-new Seltos introduces e-AWD technology, exclusive to GT-Line AWD trim.

Detailed local specifications will be available soon.

Pricing:

* Overseas production model has been photographed

 Kia Seltos HEV Australian Debut MAY 2026

• The all-new Kia Seltos makes its local debut, arriving Q4 2026
• All new model will offer Hybrid only powertrain
• All Seltos variants have received Kia Australia’s local R&H suspension and steering tune

After making its global debut in late 2025, the pre-production Seltos display vehicle has arrived down under offering Kia Australia the opportunity to provide a first local look of its soon-to-be-launched small SUV.

The all-new Seltos will be sold in Australia in a mixture of variants to suit a wide range of customers’ needs and budgets, with all models being sold with a hybrid powertrain only. This is due to this powertrain meeting Euro 6d emission standards, future-proofing the model.

“Kia Australia is confident all‑new Seltos will build on the strong reputation of this familiar nameplate, while meeting the evolving needs of Australian new‑car buyers, many of whom are now seriously considering the move to a hybrid vehicle for the first time,” said Kia Australia Chief Executive Officer, Damien Merideth.

“We are confident that production from Korea factory ensures we can deliver a consistent and high-quality product, that our customers have come to expect from a Kia vehicle.”

“This new generation of the Seltos reinforces Kia’s commitment to expanding our electrified vehicle portfolio, delivering a more advanced package that will appeal to both private and fleet customers.”

Bold and progressive exterior design

Featuring Kia’s Opposites United design language, the all-new Seltos features a wide grille with Kia’s star map lighting, flush door handles, floating roofline and new rear taillight signature and design. Exterior dimensions have grown, allowing for a more spacious cabin and enhanced visual appearance.

Premium, connected and smartly packaged interior

The interior of the all-new Seltos has been heavily redesigned, bringing it up to date with the wider Kia range. Filled with premium materials, Seltos includes features such as two 12.3-inch screens, over-the-Air (OTA) software updates, column-type Shift-by-Wire (SBW), and second row reclining seats adjustable by a total of 24 degrees (12 degrees forward and backward).

Driving performance, dynamics and safety

All-new Seltos will arrive exclusively with a hybrid-only powertrain across all variants, introducing Kia’s Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0. Australian specification Seltos will not include V2L but will instead offer a space saver spare on 2WD trims.

Built on Kia’s latest K3 platform, the new Seltos has undergone Kia Australia’s long-established local Ride & Handling Program, resulting in excellent ride and handling across both urban and rough country roads.

The all-new Seltos will come with a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, as customers would expect to see in a new Kia model – targeting a dual 4/5 star ANCAP rating.

Australian arrival

With all-new Seltos expected to reach Australian shores in Q4 2026, full specifications, features and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Size Comparison to Seltos SP2 and All-new Seltos (SP3)

Kia unveils the all-new Seltos: December 2025

• The all-new Kia Seltos makes its global debut through an online world premiere themed ‘The Protagonist’
• Redesigned with authentic SUV styling and practical functionality
• Strengthens Kia’s SUV lineup, reaffirming its role as a key global model
• Empowers users to discover their true selves like a protagonist through a unique experience

Kia Australia is pleased to confirm the all-new Seltos will launch locally in Q4 2026. Local suspension tuning is to commence in early 2026, with further details on powertrains, trim variants, features and pricing to be announced in due course.

Kia today unveiled the all-new Kia Seltos, the second generation of its globally successful subcompact SUV. Representing a bold evolution of one of Kia’s key models, the new Seltos underscores the brand’s design leadership and commitment to delivering refined practicality and advanced usability for modern lifestyles.

As a strategically significant global product, the all-new Kia Seltos has been re-engineered to offer a more confidence-inspiring driving experience and smarter everyday usability. Building on its reputation for value and reliability, the new model combines authentic SUV presence with intelligent technology and enhanced comfort, setting a new benchmark in the subcompact SUV segment.

The Protagonist: mobility for living as your true self

Kia debuted the all-new Kia Seltos through an online world premiere themed “The Protagonist.” The brand film presented at the launch portrays three individuals pursuing a new achievement, freedom and deeper connections with loved ones, reflecting how the Seltos empowers drivers to realize their passions and live as the protagonists of their own story.

“The Kia Seltos has always represented best-in-class value, and the next-generation model builds on that legacy with an enriched offering that resonates with the diverse passions of our customers. Its expanded global presence and abundant practical and stylish features underline Kia’s commitment to meeting diverse mobility needs worldwide.” – Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia Corporation.

The Outstanding SUV: practical yet stylish and confident

The all-new Kia Seltos embodies Kia’s vision of a confident and versatile subcompact SUV that blends bold design, intelligent packaging and seamless connectivity. As a core model in Kia’s global SUV lineup, Seltos reflects the brand’s bold and progressive identity — functional, comfortable and ready for any lifestyle.

Designed for those who value individuality and versatility, the all-new Kia Seltos combines urban agility with family-ready practicality. Improved cabin space and smarter convenience features make daily driving both effortless and enjoyable.

Bold and progressive exterior for every dimension of life

Developed under Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, the all-new Kia Seltos embodies the spirit of the Relentless Innovator — harmonizing rugged SUV strength with refined modernity. Its wider stance, precise surfaces and structured forms express capability and confidence from every angle.

Key exterior highlights include :

• Dimensions: 4,430 mm (L) × 1,830 mm (W) × 1,600 mm (H); wheelbase 2,690 mm — enabling a spacious cabin.
• Front design: Wider grille with Kia’s star map lighting signature and dynamic welcome light sequence; flush door handles for enhanced aerodynamics and visual sophistication.
• Side design: Diagonal character lines, a floating roofline and strong shoulder contours create a dynamic silhouette that conveys forward motion even when stationary. Contrasting cladding and satin silver colour accents emphasize durability and refinement.
• Rear design: Vertical tail lamps extend across the tailgate to emphasize width and stability.
• Trims: X-Line, with its dark gun metal finishes and reinforced lower garnishes, projects rugged capability, while GT-Line delivers a sportier aesthetic with sleek body-colored accents.

At the world premiere, Kia will unveil three standout colours — Iceberg Green, Gravity Gray and a bold matte Magma Red — showcasing a palette that ranges from modern sophistication to strong, expressive hues.

Together, these elements present a subcompact SUV that merges practicality with expressive design — a bold and progressive companion built to complement every dimension of modern life.

A modern, connected and intelligently optimized interior space

The interior of the all-new Seltos has been reimagined to meet the evolving needs of modern mobility — whether commuting, travelling with family, or exploring beyond the city.

A low, horizontal dashboard enhances forward visibility and creates a sense of openness, while optimized packaging ensures generous headroom and legroom for all passengers. The adoption of a column-type Shift-by-Wire (SBW) system frees up the centre console, enhancing functionality and contributing to a more open cabin environment. An uncluttered layout with premium materials convey both modernity and comfort throughout the interior.

Convenience and comfort highlights include :

• Wide panoramic sunroof for an open, airy atmosphere
• Customizable 64-colour mood lighting to enhance in-car ambience
• Second-row reclining seats adjustable by a total of 24 degrees (12 degrees forward and backward)
• Premium Harman Kardon and Bose audio systems delivering immersive, high-fidelity sound optimized for the cabin’s acoustic architecture
• Kia Connect Store for digital personalization and entertainment options, including collaborations with Disney and NBA

Driving performance and powertrain

Built on Kia’s latest K3 platform, the new Seltos delivers confident, refined and versatile driving performance. Enhanced body rigidity, improved noise insulation and balanced chassis tuning ensure smooth and stable handling, while optimized suspension and steering contribute to stability and control.

The all-new Seltos offers a balanced range of powertrain options, delivering strong everyday performance, long-distance usability and efficiency to meet diverse customer needs across global markets.

• 1.6-litre T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine (Standard Output): 180 PS and 265 Nm, offered with 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) or 6-speed manual transmission (MT)
• 1.6-litre T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine (High Output): up to 193 PS and 265 Nm of torque, paired with 8-speed automatic transmission (AT)
• 2.0-litre petrol engine: 149 PS and 179 Nm, optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth everyday driving

Optional all-wheel drive, paired with a multi-link rear suspension and Terrain Mode — offering drive settings for Snow, Mud and Sand — enhances stability and control in challenging conditions. Drive Mode Select (Eco, Normal, Sport) adapts performance for diverse environments, from city streets to rougher roads, while maintaining composed handling and comfort for all occupants.

A hybrid variant will join the lineup in 2026 bringing higher efficiency and expanded everyday usability. Along with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for powering external devices, the hybrid model will introduce Kia’s Smart Regenerative Braking System 3.0 — a next-generation technology that automatically adjusts regenerative braking based on traffic flow and navigation data to optimize energy recovery.

Technology, safety and convenience in harmony

The all-new Seltos prioritizes safety through advanced structural engineering and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Extensive use of ultra-high-strength and hot-stamped steel enhances body rigidity and occupant protection.

A full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems enhances confidence behind the wheel, helping the driver maintain control and awareness in diverse driving environments.

• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2)
• Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA 2)
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2(FCA 2)
• Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
• Surround View Monitor (SVM)
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse (PCA-R)
• Parking Distance Warning-Front/Side/Reverse (PDW-F/S/R)

Head-Up Display (HUD) projects key driving information directly onto the windshield for improved awareness and safety. Together, these systems help ensure peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Following its safety-first foundation, the Seltos integrates intuitive technology to enhance everyday convenience:

• Panoramic display combining two 12.3-inch screens with a dedicated climate control panel
• AI Assistant powered by generative AI for natural, conversational interaction
• Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates to keep systems current
• Digital Key 2 for secure smartphone-based vehicle access and sharing

With a class-leading luggage capacity of 536 litres (VDA) and flexible storage configurations, including a foldable dual-level cargo board, the Seltos supports both daily life and weekend adventure. Kia’s AddGear accessory system further enhances everyday usability by allowing customers to attach modular storage accessories that help customers keep everyday essentials neatly organized.

Global rollout

Global production of the all-new Seltos begins in December 2025 starting with India, followed by launches in Korea, North America, Europe and China throughout 2026.

All-New Kia Seltos HEV Specification

※ Specifications may vary by market.

The post Kia Seltos HEV- 2027 model everything you need to know appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Hyundai TUCSON 2027 Highlights

• All-new TUCSON embodies the “Boldest SUV” vision through its “Art of Steel” design, enhanced hybrid performance and intelligent efficiency, and advanced Pleos Connect infotainment system
• A refined, spacious cabin enhances everyday comfort with intuitive controls, flexible storage and available relaxation features
• Next-generation Hybrid System delivers intelligent efficiency, harmonizing fuel economy with driving performance
• Pleos Connect drives everyday progress with an ever-evolving digital experience, enabled by Gleo AI, an expanding app marketplace, and intuitive UI/UX
• TUCSON XRT PRO expands adventure capability with Smart Terrain Assist and advanced off-road technologies
• Hyundai premieres the all-new TUCSON globally against the Manhattan skyline, showcasing the vehicle’s innovative spirit and reinforcing its position as a global SUV icon
• All-new TUCSON will launch locally (Australia) in mid-2027, with hybrid powertrain

All new Huyndai TUCSON 2027 Details

Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled the all-new TUCSON, introducing its boldest SUV ever, which combines the “Art of Steel” design philosophy, hybrid performance enhanced by intelligent efficiency, and the advanced Pleos Connect next-generation infotainment system.

The all-new TUCSON made its world premiere against the iconic backdrop of the Manhattan skyline in New York City, underscoring Hyundai Motor’s confidence in its best-selling global SUV. The bold urban venue reflected the vehicle’s innovative spirit, celebrating TUCSON’s rich heritage as a global market leader while signaling a new era of versatile mobility.

Designed for ultimate versatility, the all-new TUCSON seamlessly transitions from sophisticated daily commutes to rugged weekend getaways. Guided by the “Art of Steel” design philosophy, it combines muscular exterior styling with a purposeful, tech-forward interior.

Alongside the standard model, the debut of the rugged TUCSON XRT PRO further elevates its off-road capability. Integrated with Pleos Connect featuring Gleo AI[1], an advanced Next-generation Hybrid System, and Hyundai’s first Smart Terrain Assist (STA)[2], the all-new TUCSON lineup empowers customers with confidence and elevated convenience across diverse lifestyles and life stages.

“Millions of families around the world count on the Hyundai TUCSON, and this is the best one we have ever built,” said José Muñoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company.

“Its combination of bold design, generous cabin space, seamless infotainment, and available hybrid efficiency sets a new standard for what customers should expect in this segment. TUCSON opens the most ambitious product offensive in our history, including more than 100 new and refreshed vehicles globally by 2030.”

How Does “Art of Steel” Design Language Influence The all-new TUCSON’s Bold Look?

The all-new TUCSON embodies “The Boldest SUV” ideal through Hyundai Motor’s “Art of Steel” design language, combining structural strength with a commanding road presence. Every element, from muscular exterior proportions to refined interior spaces, reflects purposeful engineering and aesthetic vision.

The exterior design centres on pronounced, muscular fenders that showcase the inherent tension and strength of steel. This aesthetic is balanced by restrained door surfaces and crisp body lines, reinforcing the all-new TUCSON’s bold SUV image.

The redesigned body is longer, wider and taller, commanding greater visual presence while unlocking additional interior space. The long wheelbase model measures 4,700 mm in length (+60 mm), 1,905 mm in width (+40 mm), and 1,685 mm in height (+20 mm) compared to the previous model.

The all-new TUCSON’s front design helps to improve pedestrian safety while enhancing forward protection in the event of a collision. Meanwhile, door opening angles expand from 73 degrees to 83 degrees compared to the previous generation, improving accessibility and ease of entry.

New nature-inspired exterior colours[3] emphasise the vehicle’s unique design details:

• Ranger Green Pearl/Matte: A lush green with a colour travel effect that shifts from greenish metallic silver to a reddish tone highlighting a bold, unified aesthetic.
• Kodiak Blue Pearl[4]: A deep blue with a colour travel effect from intense violet to turquoise, revealing a dynamic depth that shifts with changing light angles.
• Driftwood Gray Metallic/Matte[5]: An earth-inspired gray with a subtle green-to-red colour shift that changes with light, grounding the vehicle in the natural landscape.
• Red Rock Orange Pearl/Matte: A rugged canyon-inspired tone emphasizing off-road identity.

What New Lighting Signatures Define The all-new TUCSON?

The front design draws inspiration from architectural lighting principles. H-Edge lighting combines indirect centre lighting with edge lighting to enhance horizontal proportions, creating a wider, more stable appearance. This lighting delivers a refined and futuristic front impression.

At the rear, the sculptural Prism Rear Lamps sharpen the vehicle’s volume and outline, bolstering the all-new TUCSON’s commanding presence. The design creates the striking impression of light resting at the edge of a transparent lens, revealing an intricate internal pattern that delivers a high-tech, sophisticated signature.

Beyond H-Edge and Prism designs, the all-new TUCSON introduces available Micro Pixel Lighting (MPL).[6] Utilising 25,600 individual LED pixels, MPL enables precision beam patterns, rain guide, and dynamic welcome/farewell animations. Standard LED headlamps feature a two-in-one module design, while LED taillamps are standard across the lineup.

How Does The all-new TUCSON Redefine Cabin Comfort?

The all-new TUCSON’s interior design creates a furnished space that prioritises visual refinement and thoughtfulness through furniture-inspired comfort and intuitive controls, delivering a premium user experience. Every surface, from soft cushioning to ergonomically positioned displays, supports stress-reduction, relaxation and a calmer cabin environment.

The cabin redefines minimalism for SUVs through purposeful design. The two-layered instrument panel design separates form and function: a horizontal upper layer provides visual comfort and clarity, while a deep open tray below provides storage space. Soft, voluminous cushioning applied across the top of the instrument panel, doors and console armrest create a premium and relaxing interior, scaling home-based, furniture-like comfort to the automotive environment.

To minimise driver distraction and reduce cognitive load, the cabin layout ergonomically positions controls within the driver’s natural line of sight. The Double D-Cut steering wheel pairs with a 9.9-inch slim display above the steering column to keep the driver’s visual field uncluttered. Below the centre stack display, tactile buttons for frequent-use features including HVAC and audio settings provide intuitive control without the need for distracting screen-tapping while driving.

An extended console armrest improves touchscreen ergonomics, prioritising driver comfort. For added convenience, available dual 15W wireless charging pads are integrated into the console to eliminate cable clutter, while a hidden storage tray accommodates personal items to maintain the cabin’s minimalist aesthetic.

Interior space

The all-new TUCSON’s interior space (1,036 mm front headroom, 1,064 mm rear legroom, 1,470 mm front should room) creates a spacious, luxurious cabin environment. For extended rest, the available Ergo Motion Seat[7] features a seven-cell pneumatic lumbar and bolster massage system with manual and auto modes. Additionally, the available four-link Relaxation Comfort Seat[8] allows for a one-button recline to 10 degrees – perfect for breaks when parked.

The steering column-mounted Shift-By-Wire (SBW) lever consolidates gear selection into an intuitive control stalk, eliminating the need to reach for a traditional centre console shifter. An illuminated gear indicator and one-button park engagement simplify driving dynamics while strengthening the “Eyes on the Road, Hands on the Wheel” design philosophy.

The Multi-Air Mode System provides sophisticated climate comfort by routing conditioned air through main vents, multi-vents, and floor-level distribution with active management, effectively eliminating uncomfortable direct airflow. Meanwhile, an available three-zone HVAC system[9] allows front and rear occupants to customize their climate settings independently.

The available 13.5V Metal-Coated Heated Glass[10] offers a 15-minute full de-icing capability for harsh winter conditions. In the summer, the glass’s 60 percent solar energy rejection keeps the interior 2 degrees cooler, reducing air conditioning strain and fuel consumption. This transparent conductive coating technology integrates more than 20 layers of metal, dielectric and ceramic materials to provide functionality without visible wire patterns, preserving the cabin’s visual purity.

Premium interior colours[11] reflect a design philosophy that embraces various lifestyles:

• Black, Black/Dove Gray, Mud Gray/Dove Gray, Black/Brown package
• XRT- and XRT PRO-specific: Black monotone with dark metal accents

How Does TUCSON’s Hybrid System Intelligently Balance Performance, Efficiency, and Comfort?

At the heart of the all-new TUCSON is Hyundai Motor’s Next-generation Hybrid System, designed for drivers who demand more than just fuel economy. Guided by the “Intelligent Efficiency” principle, the advanced powertrain redefines the hybrid experience by harmonizing efficiency with driving performance.

Targeting up to 42 mpg[12] and 0–60 mph acceleration in 8.5 seconds, this hybrid powertrain proves that leading efficiency no longer requires compromising performance or refined everyday drivability.

The E-Traction system, applied exclusively to HEV models, further enhances handling performance by intelligently optimizing driving torque to reduce wheel slip during cornering. By increasing inner-tire grip, the system improves vehicle stability and control at the handling limit, contributing to a more precise, confident and refined driving experience.

The class-leading HEV Stay Mode enables drivers to run features including air conditioning, heating, audio and device charging while the engine is turned off, creating an EV-like in-cabin experience that enhances quietness and comfort during breaks, outdoor activities or waiting periods.

Whether selecting the spirited 1.6T-GDI (184 hp / 27.0 kgf·m) with eight-speed automatic transmission for driving or the HEV’s targeted 42 mpg for extended adventures, every powertrain option features the integrated electric water pump (EWP). This unified cooling system consolidates separate circuits, reducing weight while maintaining superior thermal performance, efficiency and reliability.

Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid

The all-new TUCSON Plug-in Hybrid[13] delivers a powerful combination of electric and petrol propulsion, featuring a 1.6L turbocharged engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system that produces 292 ps and 38.7 kgf·m of torque. With an estimated 81 km of all-electric range, drivers can complete most daily commutes on battery power alone, minimising fuel consumption and operating costs for routine trips.

The 7.2 kW on-board charger enables rapid charging at home or public stations, seamlessly transitioning to gas-engine power for longer journeys.

How Does the Evolving Pleos Connect Drive Everyday Progress Inside the Vehicle?

The all-new TUCSON delivers an immersive digital cabin experience driven by evolving innovation.

Pleos Connect, Hyundai Motor’s Android Automotive OS (AAOS)-based infotainment system, combines a 17-inch or 12.9-inch primary touchscreen display with a 9.9-inch slim display. Intuitive UI/UX features, including three-finger gesture controls and an expansive single-screen mode, help minimise distraction and make every drive smarter and more seamless.

At the core of the experience lies Gleo AI[14], an in-vehicle agentic AI that understands natural conversation and user context, reducing the need to navigate menus. Drivers can simply ask, “Find a hiking trailhead with parking within 30 minutes,” and the system provides relevant results based on the request’s context. This conversational interface reduces the need for screen interaction, enabling a more intuitive in-vehicle experience.

Built on an AAOS foundation, Pleos Connect provides native integration of third-party services such as entertainment and productivity services, and gaming content, without requiring smartphone mirroring or manual connection steps. The infotainment system receives over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring the vehicle continues to evolve with consumer needs.

How Does The all-new TUCSON Embody Hyundai Motor’s Commitment to Quality, Safety and Reliability?

The all-new TUCSON’s comprehensive architecture is engineered from the ground up to deliver exceptional quality, enhanced safety and long-term reliability. Building on Hyundai Motor’s proven engineering expertise, the vehicle undergoes rigorous validation of structural integrity and acoustic performance, while integrating advanced occupant protection, driver monitoring and driver assistance technologies to help ensure confidence in a wide range of driving conditions.

Structural strength forms the foundation of the all-new TUCSON’s quality and safety. Hot-stamped steel is extensively applied to key body structures, contributing to enhanced impact resistance and body rigidity. Reinforced centre pillars and multi-point collision energy management absorb and distribute impact loads efficiently, protecting structural integrity over the vehicle’s lifetime.

Precision engineering further enhances everyday quality and reliability. Acoustic engineering minimises cabin noise, while enhanced sound insulation, aerodynamic refinements and sealing technologies contribute to a quieter and more refined cabin environment. Together, these measures help reduce occupant fatigue on long journeys. Enhanced sealing and quality measures help protect key vehicle components from moisture and environmental exposure.

Cabin technology

In-cabin intelligence reinforces safety and peace of mind. The In-Cabin Monitoring Unit (ICMU) uses real-time monitoring of driver eye activity and drowsiness to issue proactive fatigue alerts, helping prevent fatigue-related incidents on long drives. Child Presence Detection (CPD) and Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) automatically notify drivers if children or pets are left unattended, adding an extra layer of occupant protection.

Additional safety and driver assistance technologies also bolster driver confidence. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) recognises speed limit signs and automatically adjusts the vehicle’s set speed to help drivers comply with changing speed limits. Navigation-Linked Smart Cruise Control (NSCC) proactively decelerates for upcoming curves and other road conditions such as roundabouts, intersections and speed bumps identified through navigation data.

Together, these quality, safety and reliability measures form a comprehensive approach that transforms the driving experience, giving drivers confidence to pursue spontaneous weekend escapes, cross-country road trips and outdoor adventures.

How Do The all-new TUCSON’s Advanced Driving Technologies Support Confident Exploration?

The all-new TUCSON features a myriad of advanced technologies which unlock new possibilities. Proven, trusted, and backed by Hyundai Motor’s renowned engineering expertise and technical know-how, these technologies let drivers smoothly shift from work to weekend escape, empowering owners to navigate unpredictable terrain with confidence.

For more confident exploration, the all-new TUCSON introduces Hyundai Motor’s first Smart Terrain Assist (STA)[15]. Real-time terrain difficulty assessment analyses traction and slip conditions and provides visual guidance via a green, orange or red “stuck score.”

Complementing STA, Target Speed Control (2-25 km/h) automatically manages acceleration and braking to maintain the driver-selected speed according to terrain conditions. This low-speed off-road driving assistance allows drivers to focus on steering while the vehicle controls power delivery, making off-road driving more approachable for both experienced and novice drivers.

Also available, class-first Memory Reversing Assist (MRA) can record driving up to 30 km/h and automatically assists steering while reversing on narrow roads, while the available Ground View Monitor (GVM) provides transparent terrain visibility forward and beneath the vehicle.

For towing, Trailer Reverse Assist (TRA) semi-automatically manages steering alignment, reducing complex maneuvering efforts for more intuitive control.[17] In North America, the all-new TUCSON’s HEV model offers up to 3,000 pounds (1,361 kg) of towing capacity – a 1000-lb. increase over the previous model – making it ideal for weekend trips with boats, campers or trailers. Towing capability further improves with the European lineup, as the ICE model gains up to 350 kg, the HEV up to 260 kg, and the PHEV up to 450 kg over the previous generation, giving drivers in the region class-competitive capability across the entire powertrain lineup.

What Unique Features and Capabilities Do the XRT and XRT PRO Models Deliver?

Variants of the all-new TUCSON offer distinct expressions of the vehicle’s character.

TUCSON XRT[18] – Rugged Outdoor Character: The XRT features enhanced rugged details to create an imposing road presence. A wide, fascia-extending frontal cladding combined with extended black wheel-arch cladding wraps protectively around the lower body, creating a tougher, more off-road-inspired SUV image.

A forged-carbon-inspired design motif applied to wheel arches and lower black areas adds robustness, expressing the distinctive outdoor-oriented XRT spirit. Bold bumper and skid-plate designs emphasise protective lower structures, conveying a stronger impression.

TUCSON XRT PRO[19] – Maximum Adventure Capability: The XRT PRO offers enhanced protection, control and functionality through comprehensive off-road engineering and design. Equipped with all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, aggressive approach and departure angles, and front recovery hooks, XRT PRO is built for outdoor adventures. Its elevated ground clearance (210 mm, +30 mm vs. standard) and expanded cladding package featuring the forged-carbon-inspired patterns provide increased lower body protection while reinforcing the model’s explorer identity.

The front and rear fascia feature strong vertical connections drawing attention to key functions, while bold interlocking wheel designs wrapped with all-terrain tires enhance the XRT’s rugged capability. Inside, dark metal finishes paired with XRT-exclusive seat patterns and logos unify the XRT aesthetic.

A new sport-inspired variant of the all-new TUCSON will debut at the 2026 Paris Motor Show on October 12.

How Has TUCSON Cemented Its Position as an Iconic Global SUV?

Since its debut in 2004, TUCSON has established itself as Hyundai Motor’s best-selling SUV worldwide. With cumulative global sales exceeding 11.1 million units[20], TUCSON continues to serve as a key growth driver for the brand.

The U.S. has been one of TUCSON’s most important markets, accounting for approximately 20 percent of cumulative global sales. Demand for hybrid variants has grown particularly rapidly in the U.S., where hybrid models represented 31 percent of total TUCSON sales in 2025, underscoring the growing importance of electrified SUVs in the market.

When and Where Will The all-new Hyundai Tucson Be Available?

The all-new TUCSON will launch in Korea later this year, with North America, Europe and other global markets to follow in 2027.

AUSTRALAN MARKET

• All-new TUCSON will launch locally (Australia) in mid-2027, with hybrid powertrain only
• XRT is confirmed for the Australian market (XRT PRO is North America-only)
• Note: Australia takes the LWB model produced in Korea (and U.S.), SWB is for the European market

Hyundai Tucson TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Disclaimer notes

*Note: Availability and application of the features described in this press release may vary by region, model and selected specification.

[1] Availability, specific features, service names, and timing of introduction may vary by market, model, and trim level

[2] North America-only (XRT PRO)

[3] Colour availability may vary by markets; Based on the North American model.

[4] For Ulsan Plant-produced vehicles only.

[5] For Ulsan Plant-produced vehicles only.

[6] Short Wheelbase (SWB) only, model not available in North America.

[7] SWB only, model not available in North America.

[8] SWB only, model not available in North America.

[9] SWB only, model not available in North America.

[10] SWB only, model not available in North America.

[11] Colour availability may vary by markets; Based on the North American model.

[12] Targeted fuel economy for the North American 2WD HEV equipped with 17-inch wheels. Actual fuel economy may vary by configuration and driving conditions. Availability may vary by region, model and selected specification.

[13] Available in select markets.

[14] Availability, specific features, service names, and timing of introduction may vary by market, model, and trim level.

[15] XRT PRO only.

[16] XRT PRO only.

[17] SWB only, model not available in North America.

[18] Available in select markets.

[19] Available in select markets.

[20] Including China-only models

[21] Available in select markets.

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The 2026 Mitsubishi ASX Aspire is a small SUV built on the Renault Captur, priced at $42,690 before on-road costs. It looks sharp, it matched its 6.4L/100km fuel claim over my week of commuting, and Mitsubishi backs it with up to 10 years of warranty, servicing and roadside assist. Worth weighing up before you buy: it’s petrol only in a class full of cheaper hybrids, the cabin is snug for the size of the car, and the reversing camera is poor at this price. We scored it 6.9 out of 10.

The Mitsubishi ASX Aspire is $42,690 before on-road costs, or around $46,800 drive-away depending on your state. I spent a week with one in Crystal White, mostly commuting between jobs. I also drove a grey 2017 ASX for years as an Uber car, so I know the old one well.

The new ASX is a Renault Captur underneath, with Mitsubishi’s grille, tuning and warranty on top. It sells in Australia’s busiest class, against the Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, MG ZS, GWM Haval Jolion and Chery Tiggo 4, and it costs about $13,000 more than the old ASX did. That’s hybrid money for a petrol car, and it’s the question hanging over everything else here.

A week with the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire

My week with the ASX was a working one. Most days I do a near-circle, home to one job, over to the second, then home, 60 to 70km a day on a mix of highway and normal roads. The ASX averaged 6.4L/100km doing it, which is exactly what Mitsubishi claims, and after seven days the tank still had about two fifths left. It takes 91, and I never once thought about fuel.

The feature I used most was the driver’s display. One of its layouts puts Google Maps straight into the 10.25-inch cluster, so your speed and the next turn sit in the same glance. I set it early and never changed it. Plenty of dearer cars still can’t do this.

The gearbox won me over too, which I didn’t expect to write on an eco site. It’s a seven-speed dual-clutch, so you can hold a gear as long as you want, feel the shift, then ease back into the acceleration. There’s a sense of flow to it that you never get in an EV or a hybrid, which are more on and off.

The controls took the longest. I switched the hazard lights on by accident and had to hunt for how to turn them off, and I’d changed the volume twice before I found the volume stalk. It’s Renault switchgear and it takes learning. It faded rather than festered, and by the end of the week the stalk was one of my favourite things in the car.

At some point I started wondering what it would be like to Uber in one of these. I got about 7.8L/100km out of my 2017 doing rideshare, so seeing the fuel consumption improve was nice. But the snug interior kept making me think about what kind of car I was in.

What does the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire look like?

The facelift is impressive. What sold me is the contrast: Crystal White paint against the black grille and the black details along the side skirts. It looks like Mitsubishi has widened the front around the fog lights too, and it gives the car real presence. My fiancée liked it straight away, and the old grey one has been sitting in our driveway for comparison the whole time.

The Aspire gets 18-inch alloys and privacy glass. Most of the shape is Renault’s, but the Mitsubishi front wears it well, and the whole thing hangs together far better than the boxy old model ever did.

What is the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire like inside?

It’s snug in here. My first word for it was claustrophobic, which is harsh, but the car feels sizable outside and doesn’t carry that through to the cabin. Part of it is the contrast with the barer, more open 2017 car.

The trim does its job: gloss black, grey cloth seats, ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, and height adjustment on both front seats. The mirrors were fiddly to line up, and the extra convex section on their outer edge didn’t add much. The win is the buttons. Mitsubishi kept physical controls for most everyday functions, so I hardly went through the menus all week. I connected my phone and that was about it.

Storage

The front console floats, with the e-shifter on top and a shelf underneath holding the wireless charging pad. Below that there’s a bin with a sliding armrest, plus door bins, two cup holders and four bottle holders. Sensible rather than clever, which suits the car.

Rear seat and boot space

Rear legroom is something I know about in an ASX. I used to drive mine up to the Central Coast for Uber work, because there were fewer drivers and better surge rates, and you could tell the locals from the Sydney riders: locals sat up front, Sydney riders in the back. I adjusted that front seat for legroom so often I learned to push it back one-handed and let the brakes slide it forward again.

The new one would keep me in practice. Push the front seats back and there isn’t much room left behind them, so front occupants need to shift forward to give the back row space. The 60/40 bench slides fore and aft, which helps. I didn’t sit in the back myself this week, so I won’t tell you how it feels.

The boot is 484 litres, or 1,596 with the seats folded. One large suitcase fits lying down; add a second and it starts to block the view out the back window. There’s a split-level floor with hidden storage underneath, and no spare wheel, just an inflation kit, with a space-saver available as an accessory.

Technology and connectivity

The screen is the odd one out in this class, and my workmates said as much when I ran them home. It’s a 10.4-inch portrait touchscreen while everyone else goes wide, and I think Mitsubishi has it right. It’s not so tall that it blocks your view, and it’s big enough to use the Android Auto controls easily. Google is built in, so you get Maps, the Play store and “Hey Google”, plus wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.

The sound system surprised me. Six speakers, better than average for the class, though not enough for an audiophile. The reversing camera is the worst thing on the car: blurry, smudgy, and it catches light poorly. At this price it shouldn’t be.

The volume stalk deserves a mention once you’ve found it. Pressing volume up and down together to mute feels natural, and the rotary knob for changing selections is enjoyable to use, but dangerous if you like fidget spinners.

Highlighted Features

• Google Maps in the cluster: turn-by-turn directions render in the driver’s display, not just the central screen.
• Directional safety audio: alerts play from the speaker nearest the hazard, so a warning on your left comes from your left.
• Welcome lighting: the “Hello and Goodbye” lighting and startup animation are a genuinely cool touch.

Engine and drivetrain

Every Australian ASX gets the same drivetrain: a 1.3-litre turbo four making 113kW and 270Nm, a seven-speed dual-clutch, front-wheel drive. No hybrid and no AWD anywhere in the range. It runs on 91, claims 6.4L/100km and 142g/km of CO2, and carries a 48-litre tank. The rest of the numbers live in the tables below.

What’s the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire like to drive?

Sensible. That’s my one-word summary. The 113kW turbo is adequate, it helps the car get moving when you need it, and it’s good enough to get everyone and more from A to B. It’s not thrilling and it’s not trying to be. The ride is quite soft despite the 18s, with a nice quiet way about it, and it soaks up speed bumps well.

The assists are gentle and stay out of the way. I did feel something limiting how much the wheels turn into a corner at times. I’ll treat that as an impression rather than a fact, because it’s most likely the stability systems working quietly.

The one thing I’d change is the driven wheels. I prefer AWD and think a car this size would suit it. No ASX here offers it, and neither do most of the hybrid rivals, so that’s my preference rather than a missing spec.

The dual-clutch is the interesting bit. The 2017 had a spongy but sensitive throttle that was hard to learn: too little and it crawled, too much and it lunged down a gear. This one is far better calibrated, though it still hangs on downhills, the classic dual-clutch habit. And there’s that flow from earlier, which I genuinely enjoyed. Does it feel like a $47,000 car from behind the wheel? Ehh, close but not quite.

Is the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire safe?

The ASX carries a 4-star ANCAP rating from 2025, based on Euro NCAP’s testing of the Renault Captur it shares a structure with. The old ASX had 5 stars, but that was earned under 2014 protocols, so the two don’t compare directly. ANCAP marked the new car down for weak driver chest protection in the frontal offset test, and named the missing centre airbag as the barrier to a fifth star. Child occupant protection scored 83 per cent.

On the road the systems are well judged. The collision detection isn’t over the top, and nothing nagged me all week. Standard kit includes:

• Mi-Pilot semi-autonomous assist, bundling adaptive cruise, traffic jam assist and lane centering
• Forward Collision Mitigation with pedestrian detection, plus emergency lane assist
• Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Safe Exit Assist
• Traffic Sign Recognition, driver attention alert, and front, rear and side parking sensors

How much does the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire cost?

The Aspire is $42,690 before on-road costs, around $46,800 drive-away, between the LS at $37,740 and the Exceed at $46,490. The problem is what else that money buys. The GWM Haval Jolion, Chery Tiggo 4 and MG ZS all offer hybrids from the high $30,000s drive-away, and the Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid starts at $37,440 before on-roads. All of them use less fuel.

The equipment list is genuinely long: 18-inch alloys, privacy glass, Google built in, the 10.25-inch digital cluster, wireless charging, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, height adjustment on both front seats and the full Mi-Pilot safety suite. There isn’t much missing. What’s missing is a hybrid badge and a lower price.

How much does the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire cost to run?

Mitsubishi’s answer to the price is the Diamond Advantage program: up to 10 years or 200,000km of warranty, 10 years of capped-price servicing, and up to 10 years of roadside assist. The condition is that every annual service happens at a Mitsubishi dealer, or the warranty drops back to 5 years and 100,000km. Services fall every 12 months or 15,000km, and cost $1,595 over five years or $3,893 over ten. No rival offers backing that long.

Fuel is honest. I saw the claimed 6.4L/100km on the trip computer over a week of real commuting, which at around $1.73 a litre for 91 works out to about $11 per 100km. The Corolla Cross hybrid claims 4.3, and over a 15,000km year that gap costs about $550 at the pump.

Final thoughts

If a mate asked me whether the ASX is worth the money, I’d say it depends on what you’re going after. If you care more about how it looks and drives than having a large interior, it’s not a bad choice. I just wouldn’t recommend it to large families.

On the rebadge question, I’ve been burned before. I bought a Holden Viva second-hand once without knowing it was a rebadged Daewoo, and I got the problems to match. The ASX handles that worry better than any rebadge I can think of, because ten years of warranty and servicing means someone else is carrying the risk, and European cars last well when they’re serviced on schedule.

It’s worth being honest about what that warranty is covering, though. The old ASX was bulletproof because it was simple. This one is a turbo engine and a dual-clutch, more complex and less proven, and dual-clutches have a fussy history. You’re not buying the old car’s durability for more money. You’re buying a new bet, with Mitsubishi backing it.

For value or economy, drive the GWM Haval H7 first. It’s near-identical money for a much bigger, more powerful hybrid with the same size boot, and the ASX’s only answer is the longer warranty. The Alfa Romeo Junior Ibrida is the closer match if you want European character with a hybrid drivetrain, at more money again.

It’s quirky, and its clever designs are done so that you worry less, on road and off it.

Mitsubishi ASX Aspire — Frequently Asked Questions

Is the new Mitsubishi ASX a rebadged Renault?
Yes. The all-new ASX is built on the Renault Captur and shares its European underpinnings, 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine and much of its cabin. Mitsubishi adds its own Dynamic Shield front, its 10-year warranty and servicing program, and local tuning.

How much does the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire cost?
The ASX Aspire is priced at $42,690 before on-road costs, which works out to approximately $46,800 drive-away depending on your state. It sits in the middle of the range, between the LS at $37,740 and the Exceed at $46,490 (both before on-road costs).

How much fuel does the ASX Aspire use?
Mitsubishi claims 6.4 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, and over a week of mixed city and highway driving the ASX matched that figure almost exactly. It runs on 91 RON regular unleaded and carries a 48-litre tank.

Why is the Mitsubishi ASX only rated 4 stars by ANCAP?
ANCAP awarded the ASX 4 stars in 2025 using Euro NCAP data from the Renault Captur it shares its structure with. It was marked down for weak chest protection for the driver in the frontal offset test, with the absence of a centre airbag cited as the barrier to a fifth star. Child occupant protection scored a strong 83 per cent.

Is the Mitsubishi ASX Aspire worth buying?
It depends on what you value. The ASX is a peace-of-mind buy: sharp to look at, sensible to drive, and backed by a 10-year warranty, servicing and roadside program no rival matches. But it is petrol-only and asks similar money to hybrid rivals that use far less fuel, so value hunters should also drive the cheaper hybrids before signing.

For the latest pricing and to book a test drive, head to the official Mitsubishi Australia site.

The post Mitsubishi ASX Aspire 2026 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Confirmed are three new electrified, new-energy models for local launch in 2027, signalling a major expansion of its Australian line-up across SUV, sedan and off-road segments.

The Geely MONJARO EM-i SUV, Geely Emgrand L EM-i sedan and Battleship 700 off-road SUV are currently on display at the Everything Electric Show in Sydney from 18–20 September. The first two models are slated for launch in the first half of 2027, with the Battleship 700 off-road SUV planned for the second half of the year. These models comprise three of the six Geely models set to launch in Australia in 2027.

Geely Auto Australia is moving quickly to build a broad electrified portfolio in Australia, with new plug-in hybrid models designed to appeal across family, commuter, and adventure/off-road use cases. By the end of 2027, the OEM’s portfolio will span small car, mid-size SUV, mid-size sedan and off-road SUV. Exact launch timings, full specifications and pricing will be announced closer to each model’s launch.

MONJARO EM-i – arriving H1, 2027

Named after Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, the Geely MONJARO EM-i is a five-seat, plug-in hybrid SUV based on the performance-focused GEA EVO platform. Built as a highly refined SUV, the MONJARO EM-i features Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) suspension and a chassis tuned by Geely Technology Europe.

The new SUV will feature a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors and will be supported by a battery pack with up to 40kWh capacity. The SUV will be able to drive up to 170km in electric-only mode (WLTP). A combined range of up to 1,137km (WLTP) will allow owners to go even further. A choice of 19- and 20-inch wheels will be available, along with either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.

Inside, a 15.4-inch touchscreen and 25.6-inch ultra-wide head-up display feature, along with a surround-view monitor, massage, ventilated and heated front seats, and heated rear seats.

Like the current Geely EX5 and Starray EM-i models, the MONJARO EM-i will feature vehicle-to-load (V2L), and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) with up to 6.6kW of output.

The MONJARO EM-i will come in an array of colours, including Sunlight Gold, Sky Blue, Night Black, Lunar Grey, and Cloud White, with a selection of interior options, including an optional brown suede-like trim option.

Emgrand L EM-i – arriving H1 2027

The Geely Emgrand L EM-i will extend the company’s portfolio into the sedan segment. With a five-seater that utilises a plug-in hybrid system similar to that of the Starray EM-i SUV.

The model will include

• an 18.4kWh battery pack,
• 80km+ of EV range, 1,000km+ combined range (WLTP),
• 180 kW+ of power and 250Nm+ of torque.
• It will be available in five exterior colours, including Alpine White, Cloudveil Silver, Polar Black, Volcanic Grey, and Glacier Blue.
• Two interior upholstery colours will be available for the upper trim, including a black and brown option.

Battleship 700 – arriving H2 2027

The Geely Battleship 700 is a five-seat off-road-focused SUV, with a powerful plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Overseas, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers it.

A 47kWh battery pack supports the flagship SUV model, which uses a tri-motor AWD system with an integrated differential lock.

The combined system output rates at 830kW. The Battleship 700 SUV can also drive up to 170km on pure electric power.

This offroad SUV features 20-inch wheels, 233mm of ground clearance. And the ability to wade through water up to 800mm deep. A ‘Waltz’ U-Turn function provides on-the-spot maneuverability.

Inside the vehicle,

• a panoramic sunroof,
• 12.3” and 15.6” screens,
• a centre-console heating and cooling compartment,
• independent rear air-conditioning and a
• 23-speaker sound system provide extra comfort and convenience.

Details about Australian specification for the model will be communicated closer to its launch in the latter half of 2027.

The post Geely Australia adds three new models in their 2027 lineup appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

It’s smooth, quiet and sprightly, the cream cabin calms the drive, the back seat took me at six foot three, and the rotary controls keep your fingers off the 27-inch screen. Worth weighing up before you buy: 10.3 litres per 100km claimed, on 95 RON, an ANCAP rating from 2021 that expires in December 2027, and the Signature’s Bang & Olufsen, rear climate and heated wheel aren’t on this grade. We scored it 7.9 out of 10.

Turbochargers are meant to make cars more efficient. That’s the whole reason there’s a 2.5-litre four under the bonnet of the Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced instead of the 3.5-litre V6, and it’s why a petrol SUV is getting a week on Eco Car Guide. Genesis claims 10.3 litres per 100km for the four against 11.3 for the six, with 224kW instead of 279kW.

The Advanced is the entry point to the GV70, at approximately $80,300 before on-road costs, and it lands among the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Lexus NX and Volvo XC60. The electric version of the same car, the Electrified GV70, sits more than $50,000 above it on current listings.

A week with the Genesis GV70

The interior was the standout of the week. The cabin is cream leather, brushed aluminium and one 27-inch OLED panel running from behind the wheel to the middle of the dash, and it gave the car a calming sensation while it was driving. That’s not a line about the ride. It’s the cabin doing the work.

I ran the screen from the rotary controller on the console and the thumbwheels on the wheel, and flicked between the driver-display views the same way. It was intuitive, it did the quick tasks well, and I got through the week without putting my fingers all over the screen. In 2026 that counts as a luxury feature.

I sat in the back, and at six foot three it wasn’t claustrophobic. The seats were comfy and the privacy shutter on the rear door was a nice addition. The boot took my gym bag, which is full of my freezer work gear and goes everywhere with me, so it’s my standard frame of reference for boot space. It fitted with room to spare.

I didn’t note the trip computer, so there’s no fuel figure from me in this review. Genesis’s own claim is the number in the tables, and it’s labelled as a claim.

What does the Genesis GV70 look like?

It seemed like a luxury sedan front with an SUV rear. The front is the crest-shaped double-mesh grille with the two-line headlights either side, and the back is a sloping tailgate with two-line tail lights and GENESIS spelled out across it. Genesis dropped the GV70 badge for 2026, so the wordmark is all you get. It’s a luxury sedan and an SUV joined somewhere around the B-pillar, and it works.

The front lower three-quarter or the low straight-on front looks best. Mine was a metallic grey-blue on the Advanced’s 19-inch wheels, with chrome on the grille, window line, sill strip and bumper blade. At 4,715mm long, 1,910mm wide and 1,630mm tall on a 2,875mm wheelbase, it’s a size up from the small SUVs and a size under the seven-seaters.

What is the Genesis GV70 like inside?

Cream leather-appointed seats, a cream dash and doors with contrast stitching, brushed aluminium on the console and door armrests, and an oval bar of physical buttons and two knobs under the screen. The driver’s seat is 12-way power with four-way air lumbar and memory, the passenger’s is power too, and both are heated and ventilated. A dual-panel panoramic sunroof with a power shade is standard.

The 27-inch OLED is one panel doing two jobs, cluster on the right and navigation on the left, with a head-up display on the windscreen as well. Genesis quotes 980mm of front headroom and 1,048mm of legroom, and the numbers feel right from the seat.

What the Advanced doesn’t get is the Signature’s Nappa leather, suede headlining, 18-way seats with the stretching function, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats or the aroma diffuser. The headlining here is cloth. None of that stopped the cabin being the standout.

Storage

Up front there’s a covered console box with a removable tray, two cupholders, a phone slot with cooled Qi wireless charging, a lockable glovebox, a sunglasses holder, door bottle holders and map pockets, plus two USB-C ports and a 12-volt outlet. The back gets cupholders in the fold-down armrest, seatback pockets, door bottle holders and two more USB-C ports. The boot has a 12-volt outlet, a luggage net, a side storage recess with its own net and an underfloor compartment.

Rear seat and boot space

I did sit in the back, and it wasn’t claustrophobic. The seats were comfy, and the manual privacy shutter on each rear door was a nice addition. Genesis quotes 972mm of rear headroom and 945mm of legroom, with a 60:40 split, a centre armrest, rear vents through the console and floor ducts, two ISOFIX points and top tethers on all three seats. Rear passengers get vents but no temperature control of their own on this grade.

The boot is 542 litres with the seats up and 1,678 litres folded, on a flat floor behind a hands-free power tailgate you can set for height and speed. There’s a retractable blind, and under the floor a temporary alloy spare, which is rarer than it should be at this price. My freezer-gear gym bag went in with room to spare, and that bag is my yardstick.

Technology and connectivity

The driver cluster customisation and the way you use it were the good surprise. The cluster side of the 27-inch OLED switches between trip, driving-assist and turn-by-turn views, and the circle controls, the rotary dial on the console and the wheels on the steering wheel, flick between them without a touch. It was intuitive, and it did the quick tasks without fingerprints.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation with an augmented-reality view, DAB+, and a nine-speaker Genesis audio system are standard. The 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen is Signature-only. Fingerprint authentication starts the car and loads your profile, Digital Key 2 puts the key on your phone, and Genesis Connected Services is free for five years with an SOS button, remote climate and over-the-air updates.

Highlighted Features

• 27-inch OLED display: cluster and navigation on one panel, run from a rotary controller and thumbwheels rather than touch.
• Remote Smart Parking Assist 2: parks and unparks itself from the key fob. You stand on the footpath and supervise.
• Fingerprint start and Digital Key 2: your finger or your phone, no key required.
• Blind-Spot View Monitor: a camera feed of your blind spot in the cluster when you indicate.

Engine and drivetrain

The 2.5-litre turbocharged four makes 224kW at 5,800rpm and 422Nm from 1,650 to 4,000rpm, through an eight-speed automatic with paddles to all four wheels. Genesis claims 7.2 seconds to 100km/h on the Advanced’s 19-inch wheels, 240km/h flat out, and 10.3 litres per 100km combined on 95 RON from a 66-litre tank. The 3.5T V6 has 279kW and an electronic limited-slip differential, and claims 5.2 seconds and 11.3 litres.

The chassis is MacPherson strut and multi-link up front, five-link at the rear, on passive dampers here, with the adaptive Road Preview suspension reserved for the V6. Brakes are 360mm ventilated discs with four-piston monobloc calipers in front, and the tyres are 235/55R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUVs. Towing is 2,200kg braked, and the turning circle is 11.5 metres.

What’s the Genesis GV70 like to drive?

Smooth and quiet, and quite a sprightly car. That’s the drive in one line. The 2.5T has enough in it that you don’t miss the V6, and the eight-speed gets on with it in the background.

The interior gave it a calming sensation as it was driving. That sounds like an odd thing to say about a drive, but it’s the truth of the week. The cabin is quiet enough and the seats are good enough that the car settles you, and the sprightly bit is there when you ask for it.

Compared to its EV counterparts, you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference. It’s as quiet as an EV but it takes fuel, so the long trips are never a hassle. The only giveaway is that the trip ends at a servo instead of a queue.

Is the Genesis GV70 safe?

The GV70 holds a five-star ANCAP rating awarded in 2021, covering the 2.5T petrol and the Electrified but not the 3.5T V6: 89 percent for adult occupant protection, 89 percent for child occupant protection, 64 percent for vulnerable road users and 87 percent for safety assist. It was tested under the 2020 to 2022 protocol, so it isn’t directly comparable with a 2025 or 2026 result, and the rating expires in December 2027.

Eight airbags are standard, including a front-centre airbag and a driver’s knee airbag, plus an active bonnet for pedestrians. I don’t remember any real nags from the driver-assist systems over the week.

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 with junction turning and crossing, lane-change oncoming and side detection, and evasive steering
• Highway Driving Assist 2 with navigation-based smart cruise, stop and go, lane following and lane change assist
• Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance with Blind-Spot View Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance and Safe Exit Assist
• Surround View Monitor with 3D view, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, Parking Collision Avoidance front, side and reverse, and Driver Attention Warning with an in-cabin camera

How much does the Genesis GV70 cost?

The 2.5T Advanced is approximately $80,300 before on-road costs, which works out to roughly $86,000 drive-away depending on your state. Genesis doesn’t publish a national drive-away price. The 2.5T Signature is approximately $89,228, the Signature Sport approximately $91,228, and the 3.5T V6 grades start at approximately $99,728. Matte paint is $2,000; gloss colours are no cost.

The Advanced is the one without the Signature’s Nappa leather, Bang & Olufsen audio, 21-inch wheels, heated wheel and rear seats, and rear climate zone. What it does have is everything that made my week: the 27-inch OLED, the head-up display, the rotary controls, the panoramic roof, heated and ventilated front seats, the full driver-assist suite and the fingerprint start.

How much does the Genesis GV70 cost to run?

Genesis pays for the first five years or 75,000km of scheduled servicing, at 12-month or 15,000km intervals, and collects and returns the car from within 70km of a Genesis location while it does. The warranty is five years with no kilometre limit, roadside assistance runs five years, and Connected Services is free for five. Capped prices after year five aren’t published.

The fuel is the cost. At Genesis’s claimed 10.3 litres per 100km and about $1.80 a litre for 95 RON, that’s roughly $18.50 per 100km. The V6’s 11.3 claim adds about $1.80 to that, which is the whole of the turbo-four efficiency argument in dollars. For contrast, an electric SUV using around 17kWh per 100km costs about $5.60 per 100km at a typical 33-cent home tariff. I didn’t record a figure of my own, so the table below carries the claim only.

Final thoughts

It’s definitely for a more upmarket family, one wanting the finer things but also the practicality. That’s who it’s for, and the Advanced covers the brief without the Signature’s extra $9,000. The cabin is the standout, the controls are the best kind of old-fashioned, and the back seat and boot passed my own tests.

The people who should walk past it are anyone wanting an EV or a hybrid, because this is neither. The turbo four is more efficient than the V6 it replaces, and that’s the limit of the claim. The closest thing to it that I’ve driven is the IM6 Performance, an electric SUV at about $77,990 before on-road costs, bigger at 4,904mm and a different kind of quick. The Electrified G80 I drove earlier this year shows what Genesis itself does without a fuel tank, at almost twice the money, and the Audi Q6 e-tron is the premium electric SUV a step up, at more than $120,000. Against the X3, GLC, Q5, NX and XC60, the Genesis argues on cabin, kit and five years of free servicing.

Compared to its EV counterparts, you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference from the driver’s seat. It’s as quiet as an EV. It just takes fuel.

2026 Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced — Frequently Asked Questions

How much fuel does the Genesis GV70 2.5T use?
Genesis claims 10.3 litres per 100km combined for the GV70 2.5T on the Australian ADR 81/02 test, split 15.1 urban and 7.5 extra-urban, on 95 RON premium unleaded. The 3.5T V6 claims 11.3. We did not record a trip-computer figure during our week, so we cannot quote a real-world number. The tank holds 66 litres.

How much does the 2026 Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced cost in Australia?
The GV70 2.5T Advanced AWD is priced from approximately $80,300 before on-road costs, with the 2.5T Signature from approximately $89,228, the Signature Sport from approximately $91,228 and the 3.5T V6 grades from approximately $99,728. Matte paint adds $2,000. Genesis includes five years or 75,000km of complimentary scheduled servicing.

Is the Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced safe?
Yes. The GV70 2.5T holds a 5-star ANCAP rating from 2021, with 89 percent for adult occupant protection, 89 percent for child occupant protection, 64 percent for vulnerable road users and 87 percent for safety assist. The rating expires in December 2027. Eight airbags and the full Genesis Active Safety suite are standard; the 3.5T V6 is unrated.

Does the Genesis GV70 come with free servicing?
Yes. Every new GV70 comes with five years or 75,000km of complimentary scheduled servicing at 12-month or 15,000km intervals, a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, five years of roadside assistance and Genesis To You, which collects and returns the car for service within 70km of a Genesis location. Capped prices beyond year five are not published.

For the latest pricing and to book a test drive, head to the official Genesis Australia site.

The post Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced 2026 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

BYD M9 Details

Set for appearance in BYD showrooms across the country during Q4 2026, the BYD M9 expands BYD’s growing local lineup with a comfortable, premium people mover with the latest technology and long-distance touring capability to meet the demands of both Australian families and fleets.

The M9 range will launch with a seven-seat Premium variant, with an eight-seat Dynamic variant to follow.  Both will be offered in front-wheel drive only.

DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain

BYD’s latest and ultra-efficient DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and electric motor to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency and long-range capability – up to 145km¹ of EV range and up to 850km¹ of combined range for the top-spec M9 Premium according to the WLTP testing procedure.

The M9 Premium makes use of a 36.60kWh BYD Blade Battery, the Dynamic with a 20.39kWh Blade Battery. Both grades support AC and DC charging, as well as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality.

Measuring 5,145mm long, 1,970mm wide and 1,805mm high, and riding on a 3,045mm wheelbase, the BYD M9 delivers generous accommodation across all three rows.

Exterior design

The BYD M9’s exterior design draws inspiration from a traditional Chinese garden, with strong horizontal and vertical lines creating a distinctive presence. A dragon-inspired front and elongated silhouette combine to deliver a design that is both elegant and understated.

Interior Comfort and space

Inside, the BYD M9 has been crafted to deliver a premium cabin experience for every occupant. Premium variants feature

• heated and ventilated front seats,
• while second-row captain’s chairs offer heating, ventilation and
• a near zero-gravity seating position.

The BYD M9 pairs generous passenger accommodation with everyday practicality. Offering 470 litres of luggage capacity with all seats in place. A 1,500kg³ braked towing capacity further enhances its versatility.

Safety

Safety was a key focus throughout the M9’s development. With 73 per cent of the vehicle structure made from high-strength steel for enhanced crash performance. It also offers

• up to nine airbags,
• a 360-degree camera system,
• five millimetre-wave radars,
• eight ultrasonic sensors and
• a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technologies.

BYD M9 expands Australian Model range

BYD Australia Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins said the M9 marks an important addition to BYD’s Australian lineup.

“The BYD M9 will be well suited for Australians needing space and practicality. While also expecting efficient performance with BYD’s advanced DM Super Hybrid powertrain technology.

“The M9 offers superb EV-only driving for daily commutes and exceptional touring range for longer trips. It is perfectly suited for Australian families as well as fleets seeking low operating costs.”

Further details regarding Australian pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the BYD M9’s Australian launch in Q4 2026.

The post BYD M9 premium people mover – everything you need to know appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

The 2026 Audi A5 Sedan e-hybrid quattro is the first one in a while that doesn’t feel that way. Around town it’s a whisper-quiet electric commuter; press on and there’s a 270kW, all-wheel-drive weapon underneath. It’s genuinely two cars in one, and that turns out to be the whole point.

It plays in the premium mid-size plug-in class, though that field has thinned out lately: BMW has quietly dropped the 330e from Australia, and the Mercedes-Benz C350e is only now finding its way back. Few rivals can match what the A5 does here, standard quattro all-wheel drive and full price parity with its own petrol sibling. It lands at $89,900 before on-road costs as the Sedan, or roughly $97,000 drive-away depending on your state (the Avant wagon asks $92,900 before on-roads). For that you get more power, more kit and a usable battery at no premium over the TFSI. It’s the rare PHEV that doesn’t charge you for the privilege.

What does the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro look like?

Audi has always had a distinct look and feel, and the A5 e-hybrid leans right into it. Where some brands soften their hybrids into anonymity, this one does the opposite. It’s mean and aggressive down low, with a wide, hungry “Singleframe” grille and deep intakes, then all sharp lines and classy restraint everywhere above. It has real presence on the road.

My test car wore a deep dark grey that suited its sporty intent, set off by the standard 20-inch Audi Sport wheels, red brake calipers and a gloss-black styling pack. The full-width Matrix LED light bar across the tail and the fastback roofline give it a low, planted, purposeful stance. To my eye the rear three-quarter is easily its best angle.

What is the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro like inside?

Climb in and the cabin is all curved glass and clean horizontal lines. A single sweeping panel houses an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit ahead of the driver and a 14.5-inch MMI (Multi Media Interface) touchscreen angled towards them, with an optional passenger display set into the dash. The flat-bottomed leather steering wheel, S line sport seats and ambient lighting that threads through the doors and console all make it feel every bit the near-$90,000 Audi it is.

There’s one small but lovely touch I kept noticing all week: the illuminated door-release detail that greets you each time you reach for the handle. It’s exactly the kind of quiet flourish that earns the badge, and the sort of thing rivals at this money often forget.

Storage

Up front there’s a wireless phone-charging pad and the usual oddment storage you’d expect of the class. It’s a cabin built around the screens and the drive rather than maximum cubby-hunting, but there’s enough room for the daily clutter of phones, wallets and takeaway coffees.

Rear seat and boot space

The fastback roofline that makes the A5 look so good does cost it a little rear headroom, so taller adults may find it a touch tight back there, though legroom is fine for the class and rear riders get their own air vents and USB-C charging. The boot holds 331 litres with the seats up and stretches to 1175 litres folded. That’s usable rather than generous, and a little down on a petrol A5 thanks to the battery packaging under the floor. For a couple, a young family or a weekend away, it copes comfortably.

Technology and connectivity

The twin-screen MMI setup is sharp and quick, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a crisp 360-degree camera that makes tight parking painless, and a virtual cockpit that lays out hybrid energy flow and EV range at a glance. There’s plenty of control over how the car uses its battery, too. You can hold electric-only, blend petrol and electric, or bank charge for later, all from the MMI.

My one real gripe was the new console gear selector, a fiddly little toggle that never quite became second nature. In an otherwise slick cabin, it’s the one control you keep having to stop and think about.

Highlighted Features

• Illuminated door release: a lit handle detail that greets you every time you reach for the door.
• 360-degree camera: a clear bird’s-eye view from the MMI that takes the stress out of tight car parks.
• EV / Hybrid drive modes: hold electric-only, blend the two, or bank charge for later at the touch of a button.

Engine and drivetrain

Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four (185kW) paired with an electric motor of up to 105kW, built into a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch and fed by a 25.9kWh battery (20.7kWh usable, arranged as 102 prismatic cells in Audi’s new cell-to-pack layout). Together they serve up 270kW and 500Nm, sent to all four wheels through Audi’s quattro ultra system. Audi quotes up to 97km of electric range on the WLTP cycle for the Sedan and a weighted 2.6L/100km, with CO2 of 60g/km.

Charging is AC-only at up to 11kW, good for a 0 to 100 per cent top-up in about 2.5 hours. There is no DC fast charging at all, which suits this car better than it sounds. With the battery flat it drinks from a 46-litre tank at a more familiar 6.5 to 7.3L/100km.

What’s the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro like to drive?

This is where the A5 e-hybrid earns its keep. With 270kW, 500Nm and a 5.1-second 0 to 100km/h claim, the numbers promise a lot, and unlike plenty of fast-on-paper hybrids, this one delivers. Drop it into Sport and it genuinely shoves. Better still, it’s refreshing to feel the dual-clutch gearbox working through the ratios and the whole car coming alive as you press on. The quattro all-wheel drive and a low centre of gravity, with that battery sitting down low, make it feel planted and surefooted, and the steering is sharp and connected in a way that flatters a quick back-road run.

Then you slip back into town and it transforms. Day to day, the hybrid system smooths the gearbox right out and the A5 wafts along quietly, feeling more luxury EV than sports sedan. It’s two cars in one, a hushed EV for the Monday commute and a snarling all-paw weapon when the road opens up, and that duality is the entire point. On range, my rule of thumb with plug-ins is that real-world figures land around 75 to 80 per cent of the WLTP claim, so expect closer to 72 to 78km on electricity between charges.

Over a week of mixed driving my trip computer settled on 6.6L/100km of petrol alongside 5.0kWh/100km of electricity, the two working together as a PHEV does. And because there’s no DC fast charging, this simply isn’t a car you detour to a public charger for. You physically can’t at most of them, since it has no DC socket to plug into. It’s the kind of car you put on charge at home when you can be bothered, and most commutes will then run on electricity alone.

Is the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro safe?

Yes. The A5 carries a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating, tested in 2024 and valid until December 2030, applying to Australian builds from May 2025. That comes backed by a comprehensive suite of active-safety tech as standard.

• Front assist with autonomous emergency braking (AEB), including swerve, turn and front cross-traffic assist
• Adaptive cruise control with stop and go, plus lane departure warning and emergency lane-keeping assist
• Side assist, exit warning, rear cross-traffic and rear turn assist
• Speed-sign recognition, 360-degree cameras and park assist plus with front and rear sensors

How much does the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro cost?

The A5 Sedan e-hybrid quattro 270kW lists at $89,900 before on-road costs, which works out to somewhere around $97,000 drive-away depending on your state (the Avant wagon is $92,900 before on-roads). The important bit is what that number isn’t: it’s no more than Audi asks for the equivalent petrol A5. There’s no plug-in premium, which in this segment is close to unheard of.

For the money, the standard kit is generous and there’s barely an options list to climb: 20-inch Audi Sport alloys, red S calipers, S sport suspension, a black styling pack and privacy glass outside; Matrix LED headlights, the twin-screen virtual cockpit and MMI, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, 360-degree cameras, three-zone climate and S line sport seats inside. Only a panoramic glass roof (around $4,990) and a premium package (head-up display, Bang and Olufsen sound) cost extra.

How much does the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro cost to run?

Ownership is covered by Audi’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with the high-voltage battery separately guaranteed for eight years or 160,000km, which is reassurance for the part buyers worry about most. Servicing falls due every 12 months or 15,000km, and Audi’s Genuine Care plan caps five years or 75,000km of servicing at roughly $3,000. Roadside assistance runs for six years.

With a plug-in, running costs come down almost entirely to how you use it. Over my mixed week the trip computer showed 6.6L/100km of petrol and 5.0kWh/100km of electricity together. At roughly $1.80 a litre for 95-octane and about $0.33/kWh on a standard home tariff, that blend works out to around $13.50 per 100km. Charge it overnight and stick to shorter trips, though, and you can run on the battery alone for most of them, at which point you’ll barely trouble a servo at all. That’s the case for the A5 e-hybrid: it rewards the home-charger, not the road-tripper.

Final thoughts

After a week with it, who it’s for is pretty clear: anyone who wants one car that’s a quiet, efficient daily driver and a genuinely quick, engaging weekender. The A5 e-hybrid is the best blend of those two worlds I’ve driven in this class, and a real glimpse of what harmony between electric and petrol can look like.

You’d only walk past it if you need something physically bigger, or if you’re firmly committed to one side of the fence, either a pure EV or a pure petrol car. The one thing that gave me pause was the price, but at around $90,000 this was never aimed at me, and Audi asks no more for it than the petrol A5 while handing you more power, more kit and an electric commute. For the right buyer, that makes it very easy to recommend.

How does the 2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro compare?

The obvious cross-shops have quietly disappeared: BMW has pulled the 330e from Australia, and the Mercedes-Benz C350e is only now returning to local showrooms. That leaves the most honest comparison a little closer to home. For the same money, do you take the plug-in hybrid or the petrol A5 quattro? The e-hybrid gives you more power, more torque and an electric commute; the lighter petrol car is a touch simpler and frees up a little more boot. Here’s how the two stack up.

2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro — Frequently Asked Questions

How far does the Audi A5 e-hybrid go on electric power?
Audi quotes up to 97km on the WLTP cycle for the Sedan from its 25.9kWh battery. In the real world, expect closer to 72 to 78km. It charges on AC at up to 11kW, so a 0 to 100 per cent top-up takes about 2.5 hours, and it does not support DC fast charging.

How much does the Audi A5 e-hybrid cost in Australia?
The A5 Sedan e-hybrid quattro is $89,900 before on-road costs, or around $97,000 drive-away depending on your state, and the Avant wagon is $92,900 before on-roads. That is the same price as the equivalent petrol A5, so there is no plug-in hybrid premium.

Is the Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro worth buying?
If you want one car that is a quiet, efficient daily and a quick 270kW weekender, yes. It pairs strong performance (0 to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds) and quattro all-wheel drive with price parity to the petrol A5. Look elsewhere only if you need something larger, or you are committed to a pure-EV or pure-petrol car.

What rivals should I cross-shop against the Audi A5 e-hybrid?
The premium plug-in sedan field has thinned out: the BMW 330e has left Australia and the Mercedes-Benz C350e is only just returning. That makes the most realistic comparison the petrol A5 quattro, which costs the same money but gives up the electric range and some power.

For the latest pricing and to book a test drive, head to the official Audi Australia site.

2026 Audi A5 e-hybrid quattro — Buyers could also look at:

• Audi Q6 e-tron
• IM5 Performance
• Hyundai IONIQ 5

The post Audi A5 Sedan e-hybrid quattro 2026 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

The C5 Hybrid will bridge the gap between the petrol variants and the all-electric E5, while starting at an affordable price of $31,990 Driveaway.

“There’s no secret demand for New Energy Vehicles (NEV) is growing within the Australian market and Chery aims to meet these requirements by offering customers the best of both worlds”, said Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer, Chery Australia.

“The C5 Hybrid is the ideal car for people who aren’t ready to jump completely into the EV space and still want the convenience of a petrol-powered vehicle.”

C5 Hybrid Urban – $31,990 Driveaway

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Dual 12.3-inch LCD Instrument Cluster and Integrated Multimedia Touchscreen
• Apple Carplay & Android Auto (Wired + Wireless)
• Intelligent Voice Command (Hello Chery)
• 6 Speaker Sound System (4x Speakers, 2x Tweeters)
• Premium Steering Wheel
• Synthetic Leather Seats
• Heated front seats
• Dual-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning
• A Full Suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems

C5 Hybrid Ultimate – $34,990 Driveaway

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Colour Selectable Ambient Lighting
• 8 Speaker SONY Sound System (4x Speakers, 4x Tweeters)
• 50W Wireless Charger
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Power Sunroof with Sunshade
• Power Tailgate
• 360° Around View Monitor
• Privacy Glass (Rear Doors & Tailgate)

Hybrid variants Design

The Hybrid variants carry over the petrol C5’s distinct exterior design, but receives unique 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The same applies to the interior with all variants coming standard with dual 12.3-inch display screens (instrument cluster & multimedia touchscreen), synthetic leather seats with front seats heating, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Chery’s intelligent voice command.

Under the skin is where the key differences lay with these C5s utilising a series-parallel hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a Permanent Magnet Synchronous electric motor.

Together, the combined output figures of 165kW/295Nm are sent to the front wheels through a single-speed dedicated Hybrid Transmission.

Fuel usage is rated at 4.9L/100km on the combined cycle while only emitting 111g/km of CO2.

Like all Chery products, safety is at the core of the C5 Hybrid, which comes equipped with a large array of smart and passive safety features. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), 7 airbags and a 360-degree camera (Ultimate only).

The C5 Hybrid will arrive in dealerships this month and will continue to be backed by Chery’s comprehensive seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, eight-year unlimited-kilometre battery warranty, seven years of capped-price servicing and up to seven years of roadside assistance.

The post Chery C5 Hybrid model lineup – everything you need to know appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Sitting atop the J8 range, the SHS is offered in one generously appointed variant (Summit), which is priced from $59,990 MSRP.

“Our customers have been asking for a 7-seat SUV and we’re more than happy to meet their demands with the compelling J8 SHS,” said Roy Munoz Chief Commercial Officer, Omoda Jaecoo Australia.

“With a striking design, luxurious interior and advanced hybrid technology, the J8 SHS ticks all the right boxes for not just families, but a wide variety of Aussie buyers.”

Jaecoo J8 Summit SHS – $59,990 MSRP

• LED Headlights (Projector Type) with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
• Power Retracting Door Handles
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Quilted Leather Seats
• Heated and ventilated front seats with Massage function
• Dual 12.3-inch LCD Displays
• Head Up Display (HUD)
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (Wired + Wireless)
• Intelligent Voice Command (Hello Jaecoo)
• 14 Speaker Sony Sound System including 2 speakers in driver’s seat headrest
• 50W Wireless Charger
• Built-in Fragrance System
• Panoramic Sunroof (Slide & Tilt Function) with Powered Sunshade
• Puddle lights
• Power Tailgate
• Acoustic Glass Windscreen
• Second Row Window Shades
• Colour Selectable Ambient Light (Dashboard + Doors)
• 10 Airbags
• 360° Around View Monitor

Jaecoo J8 Elevated style and practicality

At first glance, the J8 demands attention with its bold, rounded interpretation of Jaecoo’s signature waterfall grille, framed by striking projector-style LED headlights and sweeping LED daytime running lights. Sitting confidently on 20-inch alloy wheels, with Jaecoo lettering across the rear light bar, the J8 looks powerful from every angle.

Customers can choose from four stunning exterior colours: Arctic White, Carbon Black, Ocean Blue, and Iridium Silver, ensuring the J8 stands out wherever it goes.

The J8’s stylish interior doesn’t come at the cost of space with its 7-seat layout providing ample room for the whole family.

Luggage capacity (VDA) is rated at 200 litres with the third row in place and 738 litres with the third-row seats folded flat.

Power meets efficiency

The J8 is powered by the brand’s revolutionary Super Hybrid System (SHS), which offers incredible performance without negatively affecting fuel and electric energy consumption.

A 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 105kW/215Nm, teams with two front electric motors and a single rear unit. The electric motors produce 75kW/170Nm, 90kW/220Nm and 175kW/310Nm (rear) respectively.

With a combined output of 315kW/580Nm, this large SUV delivers a total driving range of over 1,000km.

All-wheel-drive is achieved through an electric motor powering the rear axle and power is sent to the front wheels via an advanced Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (3DHT).

Travelling up to 169km (NEDC) without charging, the battery has a capacity of 34kWh and can be charged up to 70kW on a DC fast charger.

The J8 SHS also has a maximum towing capacity of 750kg (non-braked trailer) and 1600kg (braked trailer).

Sophisticated technology

Sitting atop of the Jaecoo family, this large SUV delivers a high-end motoring experience with luxurious features that includes heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, 14-speaker Sony sound system including 2 driver headrest speakers, plus an in-built fragrance system.

There’s also the brand’s innovative “Hello Jaecoo” voice control system.

Which allows the driver to

• adjust the climate control,
• open the sunroof or windows and
• change the radio station
• without taking their hands off the steering wheel.

Class-leading safety

Safety is at the core of all Omoda Jaecoo products, and the J8 comes equipped with an array of active and passive safety features.

Occupants are protected by 10 airbags and a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB),
• Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK),
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW).

Stress-free motoring

Like all new Omoda Jaecoo vehicles, the J8 comes with an

• 8-year unlimited-kilometre warranty,
• 8 years of capped-price servicing and an
• 8-year unlimited-kilometre warranty for the high-voltage battery.

On top of this, there’s also up to 8 years of roadside assistance.

The J8 Summit SHS will be available in dealerships this month.

The post Jaecoo J8 SHS 7-seat SUV – all the details appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Arriving in Australia from late August 2026, the revised range introduces the new Tavascan V, creating a more accessible entry point into CUPRA’s growing electric portfolio, while the enhanced Endurance and VZ continue with increased standard specification and improved tech inclusions.

Rather than a traditional model year update, MY26 represents the next evolution of Tavascan. New technology, enhanced driver interaction, greater standard equipment, and expanded customer choice further strengthen the appeal of a vehicle that has established itself as a distinctive entrant in Australia’s medium electric SUV segment.

Designed and developed in Barcelona and built using Volkswagen Group’s dedicated MEB electric vehicle platform, Tavascan continues to embody CUPRA’s unconventional approach to electrification, combining expressive design, engaging driving dynamics, and everyday practicality.

CUPRA Australia Head of Product, Jeff Shafer, said the MY26 updates reinforce Tavascan’s position as one of the most compelling electric SUVs available in Australia.

“Tavascan has already demonstrated that an electric SUV can be every bit as emotional and engaging as it is practical,” Mr Shafer said.

“For MY26 we’ve expanded the range with a new entry point while making meaningful improvements to the ownership experience across every variant. The introduction of the new Tavascan V opens the range to more customers, while enhancements to technology, driver interaction, and standard specification ensure every Tavascan feels even more intuitive and rewarding to live with.”

“Importantly, these updates build on the strengths that have resonated with Australian customers since launch – unmistakable CUPRA design and an engaging driving experience – and now, there’s an even broader range of options to suit different lifestyles and priorities.”

New Tavascan V: A new entry point to CUPRA electric performance

Headlining the MY26 range is the introduction of the all-new Tavascan V, a rear-wheel-drive variant designed to make CUPRA’s striking electric SUV accessible to an even broader audience.

Powered by a new 140kW electric motor driving the rear wheels and paired with a new 58kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the Tavascan V delivers a WLTP driving range of approximately 414 kilometres, making it ideally suited to urban commuting and everyday driving.

Despite becoming the new entry point into the range, the Tavascan V remains very CUPRA. Equipment levels closely mirror those of the current Endurance equipped with the Interior Package, including memory and heated front seats, Sennheiser premium audio, Dark Night Dinamica seat trim, 360 camera and 20” Heckla alloy wheels; ensuring customers benefit from a premium ownership experience from the outset.

Fast charging capability remains a priority, with DC charging up to 105kW enabling a 10 to 80 per cent recharge in approximately 26 minutes under ideal conditions, while the new battery chemistry provides an attractive balance of performance, efficiency, and everyday usability.

The introduction of Tavascan V broadens the appeal of the range without compromising the emotional design, progressive character, or engaging driving dynamics that define every CUPRA.

Endurance evolves with greater value

The Tavascan Endurance continues as the core offering within the range, powered by a 210kW rear-mounted electric motor and a 77kWh battery delivering an updated WLTP driving range of approximately 520 kilometres.

For MY26, the previously optional Interior Package becomes standard equipment, significantly increasing the vehicle’s value proposition while simplifying the model lineup.

In addition to its enhanced standard specification, the Endurance now gains launch control, joining the flagship VZ in delivering even more engaging standing-start performance.

Combined with its generous driving range, rapid charging capability, and comprehensive equipment list, the Endurance continues to offer an outstanding balance between everyday practicality and dynamic performance.

VZ remains the performance flagship

Sitting at the pinnacle of the range, the Tavascan VZ continues to showcase CUPRA’s high-performance electric credentials.

Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive drivetrain produces 250kW, delivering strong acceleration together with a WLTP driving range of approximately 509 kilometres.

Like the Endurance, the VZ now benefits from launch control as standard, further enhancing its performance credentials while maintaining the everyday refinement expected of CUPRA’s flagship electric SUV.

With its powerful drivetrain, advanced chassis tuning, and distinctive design, the VZ remains the benchmark for customers seeking electrified performance without compromise.

Smarter tech and upgrades for the Tavascan range

MY26 introduces one of the most significant technology updates since Tavascan’s Australian launch, with improvements focused on enhancing the everyday ownership experience. Every variant now benefits from a significantly larger 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit, replacing the previous 5.3-inch driver display and providing greater customisation together with improved visibility of key vehicle information.

Responding directly to customer feedback, the multifunction steering wheel now adopts physical buttons in place of the previous haptic controls, improving usability and delivering more intuitive operation while driving.

Further refinements include a redesigned wireless phone charging housing, electrically operated air vents that improve climate control functionality and the addition of speed sign recognition to further strengthen Tavascan’s suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

Numerous software refinements have also been introduced throughout the vehicle, including updates to infotainment functionality and audio system performance, further enhancing the overall ownership experience.

Beyond its progressive design and engaging dynamics, Tavascan continues to deliver the technology, comfort, and practicality expected of a modern premium electric SUV.

The spacious interior combines CUPRA’s distinctive design language with a high level of standard equipment, while the generous cabin and luggage space make it equally suited to daily commuting, weekend escapes, and young families seeking a distinctive alternative within the growing electric SUV market.

New exterior colour choices for MY26 include Midnight Black Metallic, now offered at no additional cost, while the increasingly popular Dark Void colour becomes fully available across the range.

Pricing overview of Tavascan range (RRP^)

• Tavascan V (140kW): $55,490
• Tavascan Endurance (210kW): $66,490
• Tavascan VZ (250kW): $75,490

Option Pricing Overview

• Extreme Pack (VZ): $8,000
• Premium paint: $800
• Matte paint: $3,150

Full specifications and ordering information are available on the CUPRA website or via CUPRA Agent Garages.

The Tavascan is backed by CUPRA Australia’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and five years roadside assistance. In addition to the CUPRA Australia new vehicle warranty, CUPRA Australia will offer a High Voltage Battery warranty for a period of eight years from the day of initial delivery of the vehicle to the first purchaser or for the first 160,000 km of the vehicle, whichever occurs first (Detailed list of covered components of the high-voltage battery available from CUPRA website). Customers also gain access to the CUPRA Tribe and an established network of CUPRA Garages nationwide.

The updated MY26 CUPRA Tavascan range is expected to arrive in Australia from late August 2026, with ordering opening ahead of first customer deliveries.

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