CarsGuide.com.au stands as Australia's premier online destination for automotive journalism, offering a comprehensive suite of resources for car enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. This distributor specializes in delivering up-to-the-minute car news, in-depth reviews, and expert advice, catering to a diverse audience seeking the latest insights into the automotive world.
With a focus on practical comparisons and detailed evaluations, CarsGuide.com.au provides viewers with the information needed to make informed decisions. Their content delves into various segments, from hybrid and electric SUVs to compact crossovers, ensuring coverage of the most relevant and popular vehicles on the market. The channel is a trusted source for understanding vehicle performance, features, and value.
With a focus on practical comparisons and detailed evaluations, CarsGuide.com.au provides viewers with the information needed to make informed decisions. Their content delves into various segments, from hybrid and electric SUVs to compact crossovers, ensuring coverage of the most relevant and popular vehicles on the market. The channel is a trusted source for understanding vehicle performance, features, and value.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs Nissan X-Trail ePower: 2023 Comparison Review Test
This comparison review pits the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and Nissan X-Trail e-Power against each other, highlighting their distinct hybrid systems. The RAV4 Hybrid, a 2022 model in Cruiser grade, is praised for its familiar driving feel, excellent ride comfort, nimble handli...
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BYD Dolphin 2024 Review: Cheapest Electric Car Undercuts MG4 and GWM Ora on Price and Performance?
The 2024 BYD Dolphin is presented as a compelling entry-level EV, significantly undercutting competitors on price while offering surprisingly strong p... moreerformance and features. The reviewer highlights its distinctive, futuristic styling, both inside and out, and praises the high perceived quality of materials, especially the neoprene accents. Practicality is noted as a mixed bag, with good headroom but a slightly narrow cabin. The large, rotating touchscreen is a standout feature, though its usability can be inconsistent. Driving dynamics are a strong point, with a resolved ride quality and well-balanced steering that make it enjoyable and normal to drive, unlike some more artificial-feeling EVs. However, the reviewer points out that the base model might feel underpowered, and even the premium version suffers from cheap stock tires that detract from its otherwise capable handling. The lack of a single-pedal regen mode and the sometimes overzealous lane-keep assist are minor drawbacks. Overall, the Dolphin is lauded as excellent value and an impressive gateway into EV ownership, despite not being the most practical or fastest option available. less
2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Electric Car Review: Should The Tesla Model Y And Kia EV6 SUVs Be Worried?
The 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E has officially launched in Australia, aiming to challenge the dominance of the Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6. This review exp... morelores whether the electric SUV lives up to its Mustang heritage and its competitive positioning. While the video highlights the Mach-E's strengths on paper, particularly its range, it doesn't delve into specific trim levels or drivetrain configurations tested. The review covers pricing, features, design, practicality, efficiency, driving dynamics, safety, and ownership aspects. The verdict on whether the Mach-E can truly disrupt the EV market is presented, but without detailed driving impressions or specific performance metrics from the transcript, a definitive conclusion on its real-world capabilities remains elusive. less
2024 Honda CR-V Review: Hybrid and Turbo Versions of New Family SUV Accept Toyota RAV4's Challenge
The 2024 Honda CR-V, in its sixth generation, presents a significant leap forward, challenging established rivals like the Toyota RAV4. The reviewer h... moreighlights its considerably larger dimensions, improved design with a minimalist aesthetic, and a refined interior that exudes a semi-premium feel, surpassing many competitors. Practicality is enhanced with a larger boot and more spacious second row. While most grades feature a 1.5L turbo-petrol engine, the focus is on the new hybrid powertrain, particularly the flagship e:HEV RS trim. The hybrid offers a seamless transition between electric and petrol power, a quiet cabin, and a comfortable, balanced driving experience with ample performance for daily needs and overtaking. Ride quality is consistently good across the range, with the hybrid being only slightly firmer. Safety is well-covered with the Honda Sensing suite and 11 airbags. The reviewer finds it difficult to pinpoint significant negatives, praising its overall package, competitive pricing, and excellent capped-price servicing. The hybrid variant is recommended as the standout choice, positioning the CR-V as a top contender in the medium family SUV segment. less
2024 Audi Q5 Hybrid Review: 55 TFSI e Quattro S Line
The 2024 Audi Q5 55 TFSI e quattro S line marks Audi's return to the plug-in hybrid market in Australia, offering a compelling blend of electric ... moreand gasoline power. The reviewer highlights its premium interior, engaging driving dynamics, and practical cabin space as significant strengths. Despite the added weight of the hybrid system, the Q5 handles exceptionally well, feeling sharp and direct without compromising ride comfort, even over rough surfaces. The electric-only range of 55km is noted as competitive, surpassing the BMW X3 xDrive30e, though falling short of the Lexus NX. The powertrain delivers a formidable 270kW and 500Nm, enabling a swift 0-100km/h sprint in 5.3 seconds. While the battery pack slightly reduces cargo space compared to non-hybrid variants, the overall practicality remains high. The reviewer concludes that the Q5 plug-in hybrid is a strong contender in its segment, offering good value, a better driving range than its German rival, and a beautifully appointed interior. less
Long-Term EV Test! 2023 Polestar 2 Review: Long Range Single Motor | Better Than Tesla Model 3?
The 2023 Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor is presented as a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model 3, offering a more engaging driving experience... more with its sporting dynamics and Scandinavian design. The reviewer highlights its excellent steering feedback and firm, planted suspension as key strengths for driving enthusiasts. However, the vehicle is not without its drawbacks. The ride quality is noted as being quite firm, and road noise can be intrusive at higher speeds. Interior practicality is also a concern, with limited storage solutions and a tight rear door opening that could hinder child seat installation. While the interior materials are interesting, there's a concern they may not age well. Objectively, the reviewer states the Tesla Model 3 offers better value for money. Despite these criticisms, the Polestar 2 is still recommended, particularly for keen drivers or couples, with the Long Range Single Motor variant striking a good balance between range and price. The reviewer expresses a personal desire to own the car, acknowledging its flaws but ultimately praising its character and driving pleasure. less
Best EVs Coming to Australia: Volvo EX30, Kia EV9, Toyota bZ4X, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
This CarsGuide newscast delves into the burgeoning EV market in Australia, discussing the tipping point for adoption and the key models arriving in la... morete 2023. The hosts acknowledge the rapid sales growth but note that widespread adoption by mainstream consumers, beyond early adopters, is still some way off, citing prohibitive costs as a major barrier. While acknowledging the increasing affordability of EVs, particularly with the influx of Chinese brands and the used market, they highlight that prices still lag behind comparable petrol vehicles. The discussion touches on the evolving battery technology, with a mention of Toyota's potential solid-state battery breakthrough, raising the question of whether to buy now or wait. Looking ahead, the Volvo EX30 is praised for its potential to hit the sweet spot of price, range, and size, while the Kia EV9 is anticipated as a significant, large, seven/eight-seater electric SUV. The Toyota bZ4X and Ford Mustang Mach-E are also discussed, with some reservations about their pricing, availability, and performance relative to rivals. The overarching sentiment is that while the EV future is arriving, infrastructure and cost remain critical hurdles for mass adoption. less
2023 Mazda CX-60 Review: Is the New Hybrid, Petrol or Diesel Family SUV Really a BMW X3 Rival?
The 2023 Mazda CX-60 marks a significant step upmarket for Mazda, aiming to compete with premium rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q3. The reviewer high... morelights its new rear-biased platform, available inline-six petrol and diesel engines, and a plug-in hybrid option. Interior quality is praised for its premium materials and design, exceeding previous Mazda standards. The driving experience is noted as more substantial and luxurious than previous Mazda SUVs, with a particular commendation for the diesel engine's strong pull and sound. However, the ride can be firm, especially with larger wheels, and the new eight-speed transmission with a clutch plate, while efficient, can exhibit some lumpiness in stop-and-go traffic. Despite these minor drawbacks, the CX-60 is seen as a serious contender in the premium SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and technology. less
2023 Genesis GV60 EV Review: Performance
The 2023 Genesis GV60 Performance Luxury, despite its unconventional styling and unfamiliar brand, presents a compelling case against established riva... morels like the Tesla Model Y. The reviewer highlights its unique, tech-forward interior, featuring digital mirrors and a rotating crystal shifter, which, while polarizing, contribute to a distinct luxury feel. Practicality is strong, with ample storage and a spacious rear seat, though rear headroom is slightly compromised. The GV60's driving dynamics are praised for balancing the comfort of the Ioniq 5 with the rigidity of the EV6, resulting in an engaging and fun driving experience that belies its weight. Performance is described as "ridiculous" and "crazy fast," easily matching or exceeding competitors. Real-world efficiency slightly surpasses the official rating at 18.9 kWh/100km. A standout aspect is the ownership package, offering free servicing and charging solutions for five years. While the styling won't appeal to everyone, the GV60's unique identity, strong performance, and excellent ownership proposition make it a surprisingly well-rounded and recommendable electric SUV that demands a closer look. less
The Ultimate Luxury Electric Car! 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre Review: New Coupe Resets EV Benchmark
The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre marks a significant, and surprisingly successful, entry into the electric vehicle market for the luxury marque. The revie... morewer praises its design, particularly the 23-inch wheels and the aerodynamic Spirit of Ecstasy, though notes the rear design is less universally appealing. Inside, the "costing Art Space" is highlighted, with the Starlight roof and bespoke interior materials creating an unparalleled sense of luxury. The Spectre excels in delivering the core Rolls-Royce attributes of silence, effortlessness, and "waftability," with the electric powertrain enhancing these characteristics rather than detracting from them. The reviewer found the driving dynamics impressive, with light steering and remarkable handling for such a large vehicle, and even appreciated the "recuperation" (B-mode) for its contribution to a smooth driving experience. Real-world range appears to be close to the claimed 520-530 km WLTP, with the test drive showing minimal range loss. While the Spectre is undeniably expensive and not a practical choice for rear-seat passengers, it successfully translates the essence of a V12 Rolls-Royce into an electric format, attracting a significant number of new buyers to the brand. less
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs Nissan X-Trail ePower: 2023 Comparison Review Test
This comparison review pits the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and Nissan X-Trail e-Power against each other, highlighting their disti... morenct hybrid systems. The RAV4 Hybrid, a 2022 model in Cruiser grade, is praised for its familiar driving feel, excellent ride comfort, nimble handling, and impressive fuel efficiency (3.7L/100km), making it a strong all-rounder that doesn't require plugging in. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a 2022 Exceed Terra, stands out with its exceptional fuel economy (1.4L/100km) thanks to its plug-in capability and extensive electric range (84km), offering a more EV-like driving experience. However, it's noted as being less engaging to drive, feeling larger and more boat-like than the RAV4, and requires regular charging. The Nissan X-Trail e-Power, the top-spec Ti model, is lauded for its premium, high-end feel, smooth and quiet EV-like driving dynamics, and practical features like wide-opening doors. Its unique series hybrid system, where the petrol engine only generates power, is unusual but enjoyable. Despite its refinement, its fuel economy (5.9L/100km) is the highest of the three. The reviewer declares the Outlander PHEV the overall winner for its hybrid system and economy, provided the owner can charge it. Otherwise, the RAV4 Hybrid is the top choice for its balance and convenience. less
New Ram Dakota Rival: 2024 Model Set for EV, Petrol, and Diesel Options in Australia
The 2024 Ram Dakota is poised to enter the highly competitive Australian ute market, aiming to challenge established players like the Ford Ranger and ... moreToyota HiLux. This podcast special delves into the anticipated features and market positioning of the new Dakota. Key discussions highlight the vehicle's potential for a dual-cab body style, its necessity to match or exceed segment benchmarks in power, towing, and payload, and the importance of an aggressive, tough design aesthetic that resonates with Australian buyers. Engine options are a significant point of interest, with confirmation of both internal combustion (petrol/diesel V6 options like the 3.6L Pentastar and 3.0L EcoDiesel are discussed) and a battery-electric (EV) variant. The review emphasizes that for Australia, ICE options are crucial for sales success. Interior design is expected to follow Ram's strong suit, offering premium features and technology that surpass competitors. A major positive is the potential for factory right-hand drive production, which would streamline imports and potentially lower costs, positioning it as a premium offering likely starting in the mid-to-high six figures. The brand's existing success with the 1500 in Australia provides a solid foundation for the Dakota's launch. less
2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Electric Car Review: Has Tesla Model 3 EV Been Bested By Slippery New Sedan?
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 "Electrified Streamliner" emerges as a strong contender against the established Tesla Model 3, impressing with its disti... morenctive, aerodynamic design and a WLTP-rated range of up to 614km. The reviewer highlights its slick exterior, with a drag coefficient of 0.21, and a surprisingly spacious interior featuring eco-friendly materials and a user-friendly mix of physical and digital controls, including a welcome manual volume knob. Practicality is good, with ample legroom in the rear and useful storage solutions. The Ioniq 6 boasts impressive charging capabilities, achieving an 80% charge in just 18 minutes with a 350kW charger. On the road, the rear-wheel-drive Dynamic model offers a comfortable ride and good efficiency (16.1 kWh/100km on test), while the all-wheel-drive Technic and Epic variants provide quicker acceleration. However, the steering feel is noted as lacking communication, and the ride, while acceptable, could be more compliant. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Ioniq 6 is praised for its value, efficiency, and dynamic capabilities, making it a compelling alternative to the Model 3. less
3 Months With EV6! 2023 Kia EV6 Electric Car Review: GT-Line AWD | Should You Buy a Hyundai Ioniq 5?
After a three-month, 2500km test, the Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD proves to be a compelling, albeit premium-priced, electric vehicle. The reviewer highlights ... moreits striking, concept-car-like design and spacious, lounge-like rear seating as major positives, along with impressive practicality, including V2L functionality and a useful boot. The driving experience is praised for its comfort, capability, and confident handling, setting it apart from the more comfort-oriented Hyundai Ioniq 5. Real-world efficiency exceeded claims, and range anxiety was non-existent for the reviewer. However, criticisms include an abundance of hard plastics and piano black trim that are difficult to keep clean, a somewhat cramped-feeling front cabin due to a low roofline, and overly zealous lane-keeping assist software. Despite its size making low-speed maneuvering challenging and a high price point, the reviewer concludes that the EV6 is an incredible car that offers a unique, versatile EV experience, making it a highly desirable, if not personal, ownership prospect. less
Lexus RX 2023 Review: New RX500h Turbo Hybrid Aims for BMW X5 and Audi Q7 Alongside RX350 and RX350h
The 2023 Lexus RX represents a significant leap forward from its predecessors, shedding its 'Toyota Kluger in drag' image for a more charism... moreatic and talented contender in the large luxury SUV segment. The reviewer highlights the revolutionary interior overhaul, particularly the intuitive 14-inch touchscreen and the reduction in physical buttons, though criticizes the frustrating capacitive touch cruise control buttons. Performance is praised across the range, with the RX500h F Sport Performance AWD delivering strong, seamless acceleration and an evocative sporty noise. The 350h hybrid is identified as the reviewer's pick, offering a compelling blend of acceleration, efficiency (achieving a tested 6.4 L/100km for the AWD variant), and smooth, planted driving dynamics. While ride comfort is generally good, some sharp bumps and road noise are noted. The RX is deemed a much more controlled and refined vehicle, finally capable of challenging rivals like the BMW X5. less
BMW 3 Series 2023 Review: 330e | Why the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Rival Isn't a Good Plug-in Hybrid Car
The BMW 330e M Sport, a plug-in hybrid variant of the popular 3 Series, is reviewed with a critical eye, ultimately failing to impress as a hybrid veh... moreicle despite its luxury features and driving dynamics. While the car boasts a premium interior, excellent driving feel, accurate steering, and comfortable seating, its core hybrid functionality is found wanting. The claimed 57km electric driving range is deemed insufficient for real-world Australian conditions, rapidly diminishing with climate control use and highway driving. Furthermore, the vehicle's self-charging capability is significantly less effective than competitors, and the lengthy 6-hour home charging time is a drawback. The reviewer notes that for a similar price, one could opt for a fully electric BMW SUV, making the 330e's value proposition questionable, especially when compared to the petrol-only 330i which offers similar features for less money. The M Sport trim adds desirable features, but doesn't overcome the fundamental hybrid shortcomings. less
Audi E-Tron GT Electric Car 2023 Review: Is The New Hi-Po RS Flagship A Porsche Taycan EV Beater?
The Audi e-tron GT, particularly the RS flagship, is reviewed as a compelling electric grand tourer that successfully blends Audi's signature lux... moreury and design with the performance DNA shared with the Porsche Taycan. The reviewer praises its aggressive and distinctive exterior styling, which sets it apart from its Porsche counterpart, and highlights the high-quality, driver-focused interior that feels distinctly Audi. Performance is a major strong suit, with the RS model delivering immense power and acceleration, complemented by agile handling thanks to all-wheel steering and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. The reviewer notes the unusual two-speed transmission and the fast-charging capabilities (270kW peak) as key advantages. Practicality is decent, with a clever rear-seat design offering good legroom, though boot space is somewhat limited. Downsides include a slightly artificial steering feel, noticeable road noise on coarse surfaces, and a tame regenerative braking system that impacts efficiency. Despite its high price, the e-tron GT is considered a worthy successor to the R8 and a strong contender in the performance EV market. less
Honda Civic Hybrid 2023 Review: E:HEV
The 2023 Honda Civic e:HEV hybrid is presented as a return to premium form for Honda, aiming to compete with established luxury brands like Mercedes-B... moreenz, Audi, and BMW. The reviewer highlights its surprisingly competitive pricing, especially considering the extensive features, which include digital instrumentation, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and advanced safety systems. The hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and dual electric motors, delivers a potent 135 kW and 315 Nm, offering brisk acceleration that the reviewer describes as "almost hot hatch fast." The driving experience is praised for its refinement, poise, and a sporty engine note in Sport mode, making it a "grand tourer that also happens to be an Eco Warrior." Real-world fuel economy is excellent, achieving 4.2 liters per 100 km on regular unleaded petrol. The interior is lauded for its elegance, spaciousness, and build quality, with particular appreciation for physical climate controls. The reviewer concludes that the e:HEV is a significant improvement over previous hybrids and potentially the best non-Type R Civic ever, making it a compelling, almost "bargain" proposition in the premium small car segment. less
Australian Made - Five Years Gone: CarsGuide Podcast Ep 253
This CarsGuide podcast episode reflects on the five-year anniversary of the last Australian-made Holden Commodore rolling off the production line, mar... moreking the end of local car manufacturing. The hosts delve into the reasons behind this closure, attributing it to a combination of shifting consumer preferences towards SUVs and utes, global market changes, and strategic missteps by Holden and Ford. While acknowledging the nostalgia surrounding these iconic vehicles, the discussion highlights that the decline was a gradual process, exacerbated by external economic factors and a failure to adapt to evolving market demands. The episode also touches upon the future of automotive manufacturing in Australia, the rise of electric vehicles, and the challenges and opportunities they present, including discussions on charging infrastructure, battery technology, and the affordability of EVs. The hosts also cover recent automotive news, including potential electric Ford Ranger variants, the Ineos Grenadier's arrival timeline, and GWM's ambitious EV plans. less
SUVs Coming Out in 2023: Small SUV, 7-Seater, EV & Off-Road 4x4 Australia! CarsGuide Podcast Ep 252
This CarsGuide podcast episode delves into the significant SUV arrivals slated for Australia in 2023, covering a diverse range from compact city-dwell... moreers to larger family and off-road capable vehicles. The discussion highlights the BMW X1, noting its attractive interior design and the availability of an electric ix1 variant for the Australian market. The Honda CRV's upcoming sixth generation is discussed, with emphasis on its increased dimensions and the potential pricing strategy for its hybrid version. The Range Rover Sport and its larger SV counterpart are presented, with commentary on their minimalist design direction and premium pricing. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, including its plug-in hybrid 4xe variant, is mentioned, alongside the Mercedes-Benz GLC, which is noted for its popularity and the surprising absence of a plug-in hybrid option. The Mazda CX-60 is featured for its rear-drive platform, straight-six engines, and bold new design. Finally, the Lexus RX is reviewed, particularly its new F Sport performance hybrid variant, which revives Lexus's early focus on combining electrification with performance. The episode also briefly touches upon upcoming EV SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Toyota bz4x. The 'Cars in the Garage' segment covers the VW T-Roc R, Cupra Formentor VZe plug-in hybrid, and Ford Everest Platinum, offering insights into their driving dynamics and practicality. less
Global Car Production Puzzle: Who Owns What and What's Built Where. CarsGuide Podcast Ep 251
This CarsGuide Podcast episode delves into the complex global landscape of car manufacturing and ownership. The hosts engage in a quiz identifying the... more production locations of various popular car models, highlighting the surprising diversity and often unexpected origins of vehicles. The discussion touches upon the increasing prevalence of Chinese-manufactured cars and the need for Australian consumers to adapt to this evolving market. The 'Cars in the Garage' segment reviews the MG HS Plus EV, noting its potential for an EV lifestyle but encountering issues with its EV mode and infotainment system. The Subaru WRX Sports Wagon TS is described as a comfortable and composed family car, though less overtly sporty than its sedan counterpart. Finally, the Genesis Electrified G80 is praised for its luxurious, quiet, and powerful electric performance, offering strong value against traditional luxury sedans. less
EV Tipping Point! Cheap Electric Cars, EV Utes and SUVs Coming in 2023. CarsGuide Podcast Ep 250
The CarsGuide podcast panel discusses the significant influx of new electric vehicles expected in Australia in 2023, predicting a tipping point for EV... more adoption. They highlight that 20 new models will double the current offerings, spanning various segments from affordable city runabouts like the Fiat 500e and GWM Ora Good Cat to larger SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Subaru Solterra/Toyota bz4x, and even commercial vans. The hosts acknowledge potential challenges like charging infrastructure and renewable energy supply but emphasize that the market is rapidly evolving, making EVs increasingly viable for the average consumer. The discussion also touches on the ongoing debate between EV and internal combustion engine proponents, urging for a more balanced perspective. Additionally, the segment covers news on the Australian-made H2X Warrego hydrogen ute, a potential new sub-Hilux Toyota ute, and a mid-size Ram pickup rivaling the HiLux and Ranger. less
The Ultimate PHEV SUV? Volvo XC90 2023 Review: Family Test of the Plug-in Hybrid EV T8
The 2023 Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge Ultimate is presented as a sophisticated and practical seven-seat luxury plug-in hybrid SUV. The reviewer highlights i... morets refined design, luxurious interior finishes with mixed materials, and comfortable Napa leather seats, particularly praising the ample space and amenities for both front and rear passengers, including heated outboard seats and a built-in booster seat. The driving experience is lauded as effortlessly powerful and smooth, with the eight-speed automatic transmission and adaptive power steering contributing to a refined ride, further enhanced by the air suspension. A standout feature is the exceptional real-world fuel economy, achieving 6.6L/100km even without regular charging, and a claimed electric range of 77km. While the reviewer notes some minor gripes like the e-shifter design and the over-engineered electric glovebox button, and the absence of wireless Apple CarPlay, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive. The vehicle is described as practical, stylish, and driving brilliantly, earning a near-perfect score. less
New Car Smorgasbord! Utes, EVs, SUVs & Sports Cars on the 2023 Menu. CarsGuide Podcast Ep 249
This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast delves into the most anticipated new vehicle arrivals for 2023 in Australia. The hosts discuss a wide array of m... moreodels, from the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Mazda CX-60, highlighting their new platforms and design directions, to the highly anticipated Volkswagen Amarok, noting its collaboration with Ford and engine options. The conversation also touches on the potential arrival of the Ford F-150 Lightning EV, emphasizing the growing demand for electric utes, and the sleek Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan, positioned as a competitor to the Tesla Model 3. The podcast also covers the traditional appeal of the new Ford Mustang and the practical hybrid offerings like the Kia Sportage and new Honda CR-V. In the 'Cars in the Garage' segment, the MG ZS EV is praised for its improved range and V2L capability, despite a range calculation issue. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe is lauded for its V8 performance, marking the end of an era before the brand transitions to four-cylinder and electric powertrains. less
Hot Hatch Armageddon! Extinction Nears for Cheap Fun Cars - Blame EVs! CarsGuide Podcast Ep 248
This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast tackles the impending 'extinction' of affordable hot hatches, driven by the shift towards EVs and risi... moreng prices. The hosts lament the demise of iconic models like the Megane RS, Focus ST, and Fiesta ST, noting that even performance benchmarks like the Golf GTI are becoming prohibitively expensive. While acknowledging a passionate enthusiast base, the core issue identified is affordability, with prices for performance hatches soaring from the mid-$20,000s to well over $40,000, and even $90,000 for premium options. The consensus is that if a buyer has been considering an affordable hot hatch, now is the time to act, as future electric alternatives are unlikely to match current price points. The discussion also touches on the new seventh-generation Ford Mustang, highlighting its updated digital interior and the new 'Dark Horse' trim, while noting it's effectively an evolution of the previous model and the last affordable V8 sports car. Other segments cover the updated Toyota GR86 and the delayed VW ID.3 in Australia. less