Motoring Advice

The 2020 Toyota C-HR Hybrid has received a significant update, making it an even more appealing choice in the competitive compact SUV market. The exterior has undergone subtle changes, while the interior has been updated with new features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display that now supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

One of the most significant upgrades is the availability of a hybrid powertrain, which costs an additional $2,500. The self-charging hybrid system uses the engine to charge the battery, resulting in impressively low fuel consumption figures even at higher speeds. While the hybrid’s motivation can be a bit sluggish, particularly uphill, its ability to reduce fuel bills and CO2 emissions may make it worth the extra cost for those who spend most of their time commuting in suburban areas.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz X-Class EXY Urban, a creation by European studio Pickup Design, is a visually striking and luxurious take on the traditional ute. With its bold design and premium features, it offers a unique driving experience that sets it apart from conventional utes.

The EXY Urban boasts a composite front bumper, pumped wheel arches, a massive rear sail plane, and a rear spoiler. It also features custom padded suspension, lowering the vehicle by 30mm, and 20-inch wheels that fill out the wheel arches. While the lowered ride height and rear sports bar may reduce practicality, it adds a sense of style and attitude reminiscent of the HSV Maloo or FPV Super Pursuit utes.

The 2019 Subaru Impreza is designed to excel during the winter months, thanks to its combination of four-wheel drive, spacious interior, and excellent cabin ergonomics. Since its Australian debut in 1992, the Impreza has attracted a loyal following, with the fifth-generation model released in late 2016 continuing to build on the familiar strengths of its predecessors.

Priced at $30,000 before on-road costs, the top-of-the-line Impreza offers excellent rear seat proportions, an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and ample storage space for odds and ends. The well-thought-out cabin design, user-friendly feel, and approachable nature of the car make it a popular choice among drivers.

The 2019 BMW X5 xDrive30d xLine is the latest addition to the prestigious X5 series, which has been a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts since its debut in 2001. The X5 xDrive30d xLine boasts a striking road presence, with a design that looks even better in person than in photos. Sporting a sleek new look compared to its predecessor, this model comes with several high-priced options.

Behind the wheel, drivers are treated to a plush interior and a commanding view of the road. The X5 xDrive30d xLine offers excellent visibility, particularly out front, and its powerful torque ensures smooth and effortless driving. The 8-speed sport automatic transmission and precise steering make handling this heavyweight vehicle a breeze.

The fourth-generation Mazda 3 has made its debut on Australian roads, continuing the legacy of a small car that has sold nearly 600,000 units since 2003. With SUVs dominating the market, Mazda has decided to take the Mazda 3 upmarket, increasing entry-level pricing by as much as $4,500. However, this price hike is justified by the additional features that now come standard even at the entry-level, such as an 8.8-inch widescreen infotainment display, radar cruise control, rear parking sensors and camera, head-up display, seven airbags, and active lane keep assist.

Although there is no significant update to engines or transmissions, nor an increase in rear-seat room, the new Mazda 3 excels in presentation and ease of use of controls. The simple dashboard and button array make for a user-friendly experience. Mazda has made extensive efforts to quieten the cabin, resulting in reduced tire roar on coarse chip roads.

The 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric is a revolutionary vehicle that combines the benefits of an SUV with the environmental advantages of an electric drivetrain. Hyundai predicts significant changes in the automotive landscape over the next decade, and the Kona Electric is at the forefront of this transformation.

Offering real-world range comparable to its petrol-powered counterparts, the Kona Electric boasts impressive battery life and quick charging times. With a high-voltage charger, the vehicle’s battery can be fully charged in as little as 54 minutes. On test, the Kona Electric achieved an impressive 421 kilometers on a single charge.

The 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera S has finally arrived in Australia, marking the eighth generation of this legendary sports car. The 911’s distinct rear-engine design sets it apart from other sports cars, and the latest model continues to impress with its enhancements.

The 992 model is notably faster, thanks to new symmetrical turbochargers and improvements to the 3.0-litre turbo flat-six engine. The steering is spot-on, providing the perfect balance between sharpness and stability. The ride quality is exceptional, and noise suppression is significantly improved, making for a quieter cabin experience.

The 2019 Suzuki Jimny has generated quite a buzz, and it’s easy to see why. Despite its flaws, such as a three-star safety rating and limited cargo space, the Jimny offers a nostalgic and adventurous driving experience. Its retro and rugged design is reminiscent of the Mercedes G-Wagon, with boxy proportions and simple circular headlights that defy modern-day curves.

The interior features a passenger grab-handle, rubber mats, and square-set instrument dials, adding to the Jimny’s retro charm. Rear seat room is adequate for taller passengers, but boot space is limited unless the rear seats are folded down. The new Jimny offers more standard features than ever before, including a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a reversing camera, satellite navigation, climate control, cruise control, and hill descent control.

BMW’s new entrant in the small, prestige SUV segment delivers style and substance in this BMW X2 sDrive 20i 2018 Review with the team from Motoring Australia.

The X2, BMWs rival to the Audi Q2 has arrived in Australia. Launched initially in just one variant priced from $56,000. A more affordable three-cylinder X2 and a diesel all-wheel drive flagship will follow in a few months but meantime the petrol four-cylinder model is the only game in town.

The Lotus Elise 220 Sprint 2018 Review takes a look at Lotus’ stripped back road car with the team from Motoring Australia.

Sports cars aren’t what they once were. If you’re in the market for a supercar nowadays for example, you’re often getting into something safe, comfortable, even suitable enough for the daily grind. But what if you want your sports car to look, feel and drive like a sports car all the time? To that, I give you the Lotus Elise 220 Sprint.