Motoring Advice

The Porsche Taycan has finally arrived in Australia, drawing comparisons to the Tesla Model S. However, Porsche’s first electric vehicle (EV) offers more than just another performance prestige electric sedan. The Taycan is a Porsche first and an EV second, showcasing qualities that make it stand out in the market.

With prices starting from $190,400 for the entry-level Taycan 4S and rising to a staggering $338,500 for the flagship Taycan Turbo S, Porsche offers a range of options for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

The 2021 Honda Civic Type R is a testament to Honda’s passion and talent in engineering, proving its position at the top of the hot hatch game. With a reputation for being one of the best hot hatches, the 2021 model has undergone a genuine evolution, making it even better for Aussie drivers who love a hot hatch experience.

The adaptive damping system’s brain is now 10 times faster, measuring bumps in the road 20 times a second, offering improved riding comfort and efficient race track performance.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 P400 marks a new era for the iconic British off-road vehicle, boasting a modern design, advanced technology, and improved performance. With its aluminium monocoque chassis, fully independent suspension, and state-of-the-art safety features, the new Defender is set to impress both on and off the road.

Initially available in a four-door long wheelbase 110 form, the Defender offers three engines and six trims, with nine derivatives in total.

The 2020 Audi SQ7, the world’s fastest diesel-powered seven-seat SUV, returns with significant interior, exterior, and technology updates. The SQ7 now features a new SQ8 stable mate that utilises the same twin-turbo V8 engine and advanced electronics to manage its 2.5-ton mass.

With a seven-seat layout, five-star safety, and the latest luxury appointments, the SQ7 offers a complete package for those seeking performance and practicality.

The 2020 Mazda CX-8 Touring is a versatile and spacious seven-seat SUV that now comes with a petrol engine option, making it an attractive choice for families. Previously, the CX-8 was only available with a diesel engine, while its sibling, the CX-9, was the petrol variant. The addition of a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, commonly seen in various Mazda models, has expanded the CX-8’s appeal.

The CX-9 remains the flagship model with its more powerful turbo 2.5-litre engine, and the CX-8 petrol variants are front-wheel drive, allowing for a more affordable price point.

The 2020 Toyota Fortuner GX is an often-overlooked SUV in Toyota’s lineup, overshadowed by popular names like the LandCruiser, Prado, and RAV4. However, it boasts serious off-road capabilities that make it suitable for those seeking true off-road adventures. Built on the same ladder frame as Australia’s top-selling vehicle, the HiLux ute, the Fortuner is a seven-seater SUV with impressive off-road credentials.

Equipped with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 4×4 system with low range and a locking rear differential, the Fortuner outshines many other popular SUVs in terms of off-road capabilities.

The 2020 SsangYong Korando ELX is a mid-size SUV that offers a cost-effective alternative to popular models like the Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson. With a starting price of just $27,000 drive away, the Korando is available in three grades, with diesel or turbo petrol engines and manual or automatic transmission options.

The Korando boasts a long list of standard features, including driver safety technology such as autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assist, which are often costly additions in rival vehicles.

The 2020 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Exceed is a large seven-seat SUV that combines the robustness of a dual cab ute with family-friendly features and off-road capabilities.

Sharing its underpinnings with the popular Mitsubishi Triton, the Pajero Sport offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, a gutsy turbo diesel engine, and a range of off-road features to take you from school drop-offs to weekend adventures.

The 2020 LDV T60 Luxe is a Chinese-built dual-cab ute that offers an attractive price point, undercutting most of its major rivals. With deals available as low as $32,000, the LDV T60 Luxe is an excellent option for those looking for a versatile and affordable ute.

The T60 Luxe doesn’t skimp on equipment, featuring heated seats, a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and electric everything.

The 2020 Nissan Patrol Ti-L is a full-size 4×4 petrol-powered SUV that boasts a luxurious cabin, a 3.5-ton towing limit, and excellent off-road capabilities.

The Y62 Series Patrol has been a popular choice in Australia since 2013, and its latest update brings new frontal styling, retuned suspension, and advanced technology to help it compete with its archrival, the Toyota Land Cruiser 200.