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...
Latest Additions
Showing 24 of 268 total titles. Page 9 of 12.
Podcast: There's A Jimny Ute And We Want It Badly - Tools In The Shed Ep. 125
This episode of Tools in the Shed focuses heavily on the potential of a Suzuki Jimny ute, a conversion currently available in New Zealand. The hosts e... morexpress significant desire for this model to reach Australia, highlighting its potential as a stripped-down, genuine working truck that fills a gap left by larger, more complex dual-cab utes. While acknowledging it won't rival Hilux or Ranger, they see it as a practical, capable 4x4 option. The discussion also touches on other vehicles driven this week, including the BMW M550i xDrive (praised for comfort but lacking the M5's ultimate thrill), the Subaru XV Hybrid (lauded for its handling and capability but criticized for questionable fuel economy and price), and the Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander (noted for its good looks and equipment but deemed pricey and not inspiring to drive). The 'MuskWatch' segment covers Elon Musk's potential role in ventilator production and Tulsa's bid for a Cybertruck Gigafactory, alongside a discussion on the Tesla Roadster's degradation in space. less
Podcast: The End of The Lion - Tools in the Shed Ep. 121
This episode of Tools in the Shed podcast delves into the significant news of Holden's closure, reflecting on the brand's history and its im... morepact. The hosts discuss the void left by the Colorado ute, speculating on which brands will fill the gap. They also reminisce about Holden's more obscure and forgotten models, offering a nostalgic look back. The discussion touches upon the challenges of the Australian automotive market, including right-hand-drive costs and the potential for the market to become a 'third world backwater'. While the primary focus is Holden's demise, the podcast also covers other automotive news, including updates on Tesla's solar plans and Elon Musk's controversial practices, as well as a comparison test involving the Mazda CX-30, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40, and a long-term review of the Holden Acadia. The episode concludes with a lengthy anecdote about a clever evasion of a speeding ticket. less
Podcast: The State of the Ute-ion - Tools in the Shed Ep. 119
This episode of 'Tools in the Shed' delves into the evolving Australian ute market, highlighting the demise of the Mercedes-Benz X-Class and... more the anticipated arrival of Chinese manufacturers like Great Wall (with the Cannon) and LDV (with the T60). The hosts express skepticism about the X-Class's failure, attributing it to a misjudged premium positioning. They note the growing influence of Chinese brands, praising their increasing quality and aggressive pricing strategies, exemplified by MG's success. The discussion also touches on the future of diesel engines, the potential impact of hybrid and electric powertrains, and the ongoing Tesla phenomenon, with a particular focus on its stock performance and Elon Musk's controversial ventures. The review segment covers the Nissan Pathfinder and X-Trail, and the Kia Sportage, offering brief impressions of their comfort and practicality. less
Podcast: China Has a Landcruiser and a Hilux, But What's Next? - Tools in the Shed Ep. 118
This episode of Tools in the Shed podcast delves into the burgeoning automotive influence of China, featuring discussions on potential LandCruiser and... more HiLux competitors. The hosts highlight the Great Wall Cannon as a Hilux rival slated for Australian release and the Hanteng L4600, a vehicle drawing clear inspiration from the Toyota LandCruiser, noting its significantly lower price point. While acknowledging the imitative nature of some Chinese designs, the panel suggests that brands like MG are improving and that China's automotive industry is poised for significant growth, potentially challenging established players. The discussion also touches upon the current Kia Sorento GT-Line, noting it's a solid, albeit aging, option with a new model on the horizon, and briefly covers the BMW i3 S, praising its agility and interior but noting its premium price. A segment on Elon Musk and Tesla's Q4 results, potential trillionaire status, and improved battery range concludes the episode. less
Podcast: Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series; Everything We Know #116
This podcast episode delves into the highly anticipated Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, with significant details emerging from Japanese publication Bes... moret Car Web. The new model is expected to be revealed in August 2020, replacing the outgoing 200 Series after a 13-year run. A major shift is the discontinuation of the V8 petrol engine in favour of a 3.6-liter V6 hybrid, potentially a twin-turbocharged unit, aiming for improved torque and fuel efficiency. While a turbo-diesel is also expected, the hybrid powertrain is highlighted as a key focus for Toyota. The 300 Series will reportedly utilize the TNGA platform, adapted for a ladder-frame chassis, with dimensions indicating a length of 4.9m, width of 1.9m, height of 1.8m, and a 2850mm wheelbase. The discussion also touches upon the Nissan Navara N-Trek Warrior, praised for its off-road capability and value, the Mercedes-AMG A35 as an entry-level performance option, and the BMW X6 M50i, noted for its immense power but also its overwhelming nature for daily use. The episode also covers Tesla's controversial in-app purchase system and Elon Musk's Twitter interactions. less
Podcast: Rust in Peace: All the Models We Lost in 2019 - Tools in the Shed Ep. 115
This episode of 'Tools in the Shed' focuses on automotive models discontinued in 2019, sparking a discussion among James Cleary, Richard Ber... morery, and Matt Campbell about which vehicles will be missed. The hosts also share their experiences driving the Lexus RX300 Luxury and the Honda HR-V RS. A segment on Elon Musk, dubbed 'MuskWatch,' touches upon his personal life and the significant increase in Tesla's share price. The podcast encourages listener interaction regarding their favorite retired models. less
Podcast: Ford vs Tesla - Tug-o'-War: Round 2 - Tools in the Shed Ep. 112
This podcast episode delves into the escalating social media battle between Ford and Tesla, particularly following the F-150 vs. Cybertruck tug-of-war... more. The hosts question the authenticity of the tug-of-war and debate whether a production electric F-150 and Cybertruck will ever truly compete head-to-head, leaning towards government regulations driving EV adoption. The discussion then shifts to the potential future of the Holden Commodore, with speculation it could become a rebadged electric SUV, possibly even an electric Hummer, given GM's EV focus. The hosts also review the Audi A1 40 TFSI, noting its premium price for a Polo-based car, the Nissan X-Trail N-Trek special edition, highlighting its practicality but criticizing its CVT, and the Renault Kadjar Intens, praising its improved European feel and quality despite a slightly jerky dual-clutch transmission. Finally, the 'MuskWatch' segment covers the Vernon Unsworth defamation case, Tesla's alleged lack of market research, SpaceX sending muscular mice to the ISS, and a slight dip in Tesla's share price. less
Podcast: An Electric Land Cruiser? - Tools in the Shed Ep. 111
This episode of 'Tools in the Shed' delves into Toyota's electrified future, with a significant focus on the potential for an electric ... moreLandCruiser. While Sean Hanley, VP of Sales and Marketing for Toyota Australia, stopped short of confirming an electric LandCruiser, his comments strongly hinted at future electrification across the model range to meet CO2 reduction goals, assuring loyalists that capability would remain paramount. The podcast also covered the new hybrid Corolla sedan and C-HR, praising their fuel efficiency and sensible pricing, with the Corolla sedan highlighted as a practical city car. The discussion then shifted to the Mercedes-Benz GLB, noted for its surprising interior space and practicality despite its compact exterior dimensions, and its unique styling. Finally, the team reviewed the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X, Mitsubishi Triton GLS, and BMW 330i Touring, offering insights into their value, performance, and driving dynamics. The Cybertruck reveal and its associated controversies, including the glass-shattering incident and tug-of-war claims, were also a major talking point. less
Podcast: Affordable Performance Cars Are Making a Comeback! - Tools in the Shed Ep. 110
This episode of 'Tools in the Shed' delves into the exciting resurgence of affordable performance cars, with a particular focus on upcoming ... moremodels from Toyota (GR Yaris), Hyundai (RM19 concept), and potentially Subaru/Toyota collaborations. The hosts express enthusiasm for this trend, contrasting it with the recent dominance of electric and autonomous vehicle discussions. The review also touches upon the practicalities of towing with the Ram 1500 diesel, noting its limitations despite its size, and discusses the enduring appeal and slight predictability of the VW Golf GTI. The Audi Q7's return to the Australian market after an emissions system issue is highlighted, alongside the Hyundai Ioniq's competent but somewhat 'appliance-like' electric driving experience. The 'MuskWatch' segment covers SpaceX's Starship prototype failure, the anticipated Cybertruck reveal, concerns over satellite pollution impacting astronomy, and Tesla's fluctuating share price. less
Podcast: The World's Worst Driving Sins - Tools in the Shed Ep. 109
This podcast episode delves into various automotive topics, starting with a discussion on the pricing of the Ford Ranger Raptor and the concept of mar... moreket value. The hosts then transition to a passionate segment on driving sins, with a particular focus on poor lane discipline and the frustration it causes. The review of the Mercedes-Benz GLC highlights its technological advancements, including the 'Hey Mercedes' voice activation system and the move away from diesel to plug-in hybrids, though it notes the standard suspension can be uncomposed on Australian roads, recommending the air suspension option. The Hyundai i30 N Line Premium is praised as a well-equipped and enjoyable warm hatch offering great value at its price point. Finally, the Volvo XC40 T4 Momentum is commended for its comfortable ride and well-tuned chassis despite its short wheelbase. The 'MuskWatch' segment covers Elon Musk's controversial claims about Neuralink's potential to 'cure' autism, a humorous breakdown of how to 'steal' Starman's Tesla Roadster, the Model 3 winning an award, and the announcement of Tesla's fourth Gigafactory near Berlin. less
Why You Should Be Hunting for a New Car Deal - Tools in the Shed Ep. 108
This episode of Tools in the Shed delves into the Australian new car market's ongoing sales decline, presenting it as a prime opportunity for buy... moreers to negotiate deals. The hosts also explore the psychological drivers behind off-roading and camping. The review highlights the Porsche Taycan as a "weapon" and a "fabulous bit of kit," praising its driving dynamics and engineering that match its acceleration, particularly noting the "repeatability" of its performance thanks to its 800-volt architecture and two-speed gearbox. While charging times and range are standard for the segment, the Taycan's performance, especially the Turbo S's sub-11-second quarter-mile, is exceptional. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon diesel is discussed ahead of a towing test, with initial impressions noting its improved on-road manners and quietness. The Audi A5 Coupe is described as a competent, refined, and good-looking premium 2+2 coupe, offering good value for its price point, though not particularly exciting. The "MuskWatch" segment covers the upcoming Cybertruck reveal, SpaceX's ambitious Starship cost reduction goals, and Tesla's rapid Shanghai factory progress. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools In The Shed Ep. 107
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' covers a diverse range of automotive topics. The hosts discuss the challenges o... moref modern motor shows, with Matt Campbell sharing his experience at the Tokyo Motor Show, noting a shift towards interactive displays and mobility solutions for an aging population, rather than traditional car reveals. Tom White reports on the Sydney EV Expo, highlighting the Fonzarelli electric scooter brand and a potential new entrant to the Australian market, the Dongfeng SUV (to be branded as EV Automotive E3), which promises a mid-size electric SUV with a 405km range at an estimated $65,000. The 'In the Garage' segment features reviews of the Suzuki Ignis GLX, praised for its charisma but criticized for its city driving dynamics and value proposition compared to rivals; the new Audi A1, lauded for its improved styling and well-equipped trim levels despite supply issues; and the Hyundai Veloster Turbo Premium, which surprised with its sporty performance before its discontinuation in Australia. The 'MuskWatch' segment touches on Elon Musk's donation of a million trees and the increasing price of Tesla's Full Self-Driving add-on, alongside a software update for Tesla vehicles. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 106
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' covers a range of automotive topics, from the persistent lack of wireless Apple... more CarPlay and Android Auto in many new vehicles to the upcoming hybrid versions of the Toyota Yaris and Honda Jazz. The hosts express frustration with manufacturers, particularly Toyota, for their slow adoption of modern infotainment systems. The discussion then shifts to the vehicles driven this week: the Range Rover Velar, praised for its innovative vegan interior, the practical Mitsubishi Outlander LS, and the entry-level Hyundai Venue Go. The 'MuskWatch' segment delves into Tesla's Q3 financial results, ahead-of-schedule projects, and Elon Musk's ambitious Starlink satellite project. While the Yaris and Jazz hybrids are seen as a positive step for city cars, the overall sentiment highlights a gap between technological advancement and consumer expectation in the automotive industry. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 105
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' delves into practical vehicle advice and new model discussions. The hosts engag... moree in a philosophical debate about off-road vehicle preparation, cautioning against over-equipping vehicles for off-road use when they rarely leave the city, while also highlighting the risks of under-preparation. They discuss the Kia Seltos, a new compact SUV, noting its competitive pricing and positioning within a crowded market, though questioning the base model's halogen headlights and lack of soft-touch interior elements. The podcast also features reviews of the Hyundai Venue, Volvo V90 Cross Country, and the host's own Nissan Navara, offering insights into their real-world usability and driving characteristics. The 'MuskWatch' segment touches on SpaceX's moon refueling plans, a new Tesla pickup render, and Tesla's manufacturing innovations, concluding with a brief stock update. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 104
The CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' episode 104 delves into the highly anticipated Audi Q3 SUV, positioning it as a strong cont... moreender against Mercedes-Benz and BMW. The reviewer highlights the Q3's significantly improved interior space, particularly its large boot, and a more engaging, 'hot hatch-like' suspension. Standard tech inclusions, such as the 10.1-inch multimedia screen and wireless Apple CarPlay, are noted as class-leading. The launch variant, the 35 TFSI, is powered by a 1.4-litre engine. While priced slightly above entry-level competitors at $46,400 MSRP, its comprehensive standard features and refined cabin are seen as justifying the cost. Future variants, including a 2.0-litre Quattro and an RS model, are also mentioned, promising broader appeal. The podcast also touches on the Toyota RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid, praising its quiet operation and acceleration, though cautioning about its off-road limitations, and briefly reviews the Jaguar XE R Dynamic HSE, finding it rapid but lacking the ferocity of previous V8 models. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 103
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' covers a range of automotive topics. The hosts discuss the Ford Ranger's w... morein as CarsGuide's 2019 Adventure Car of the Year, praising its all-around capability, safety, comfort, and diverse model lineup, including the Raptor. They also touch upon the Suzuki Jimny and Jeep Wrangler as strong contenders for adventure, despite safety concerns with the latter two. A significant portion is dedicated to a tire test event featuring Kumho's new performance and all-season tires, highlighting the importance of tires for vehicle performance and safety. The hosts also share their driving experiences: the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the outgoing Infiniti Q50 with its peculiar steer-by-wire system, and the raucous Jaguar F-Pace SVR. The 'MuskWatch' segment covers Tesla's Smart Summon feature, its associated issues and accidents, the introduction of a key fob for the Model 3, and Elon Musk's Starship updates and Tesla's share price stability. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 102
The CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' episode 102 delves into their 2019 Car of the Year awards, crowning the Toyota RAV4 (fifth ... moregeneration) overall winner. The judges lauded the RAV4's comprehensive range, appealing to a wide audience with its various powertrains, including hybrid options, and praised its well-rounded performance, comfortable ride, and excellent ownership package, noting its significant wait times as a testament to its popularity. The podcast also highlighted strong contenders like the Hyundai Ioniq and Volkswagen Touareg, appreciating their respective strengths in electrification and premium SUV offerings. Beyond the awards, the hosts shared personal driving experiences, including a significant towing adventure to Alice Springs in a Volkswagen Touareg and a drive of the highly anticipated Toyota Supra, which, despite its BMW underpinnings, was praised for its engaging driving dynamics and superior calibration over its Z4 counterpart, though a manual transmission was wished for. The discussion also touched upon the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson in a comparison test, and concluded with the regular 'MuskWatch' segment, covering Tesla news and Elon Musk's public statements. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 101
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' covers a diverse range of automotive topics. The hosts discuss car brands that ... moreextend beyond vehicle manufacturing, highlighting examples like Lexus's yacht and potential jet, Honda's aviation ventures, Mitsubishi's Space Jet, and Porsche's long history with cutlery and grinders. The discussion also touches on Peugeot's strategic approach to the Australian market, particularly regarding electric vehicles and their future pickup truck, which is unlikely to reach Australia due to market-specific challenges. The 'What We've Been Driving' segment features reviews of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited (V6 diesel), the Kia Sportage (with a mild range adjustment and focus on its balanced performance), and the ferocious Jaguar F-Type SVR, noted for its extreme performance and attention-grabbing exhaust. The 'MuskWatch' segment delves into Elon Musk's recent Nürburgring exploits with a modified Model S, his Star Wars-themed SpaceX updates, and a creative Street Fighter-inspired car modification. The episode concludes with a stock tip on Tesla, characterized by its polarizing bull/bear market sentiment. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 100
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' celebrates its 100th installment with an extended format, featuring discussions... more on the Frankfurt Motor Show, insights into Volvo's future, and a satirical interview with Elon Musk. The hosts cover notable vehicles from the show, including the Volkswagen ID.3, Honda e, and the new Land Rover Defender, offering mixed opinions on their design and market positioning. The review of the Range Rover Velar highlights its luxurious interior and refined diesel engine but questions its streamlined design and complex infotainment controls. The LDV G10 van is praised for its exceptional value and practicality for businesses, though concerns are raised about its safety rating and braking performance. The episode also touches on the future of Volvo, with plans for the XC40 electric and the Polestar brand, emphasizing a shift towards electrification and a streamlined customer experience. The segment concludes with a humorous, albeit fabricated, interview with Elon Musk and a discussion on Tesla's stock performance. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 99
The CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' episode 99 delves into a variety of automotive topics, with a significant portion dedicated... more to the highly anticipated arrival of the A90 Toyota Supra in Australia. The hosts express strong positive sentiment towards the Supra, praising its performance, dynamic credentials, and enjoyable driving experience, particularly on the racetrack. They highlight its potent 250kW/500Nm engine, stable handling on sweeping corners, and effective braking, suggesting it offers performance that can challenge cars twice its price. The interior, while sharing BMW underpinnings, is noted as being cleverly styled by Toyota to feel distinct. The episode also touches on the latest Ute comparison, the Volkswagen Touareg's luxury SUV capabilities, and the enduring appeal of the Suzuki Jimny. The 'MuskWatch' segment covers Tesla's competition with Porsche, Elon Musk's views on AI, and global electric car sales trends. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 98
This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' dives deep into the burgeoning market of American pick-up trucks arriving in Au... morestralia, with a particular focus on the Nissan Titan, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, and GM's potential offerings (GMC Sierra/Canyon). The hosts highlight the success of RAM as the catalyst for this trend, noting the challenges and ongoing investigations by manufacturers for local conversion or factory right-hand drive options. The discussion also touches on the suitability of electric vehicles for hardcore off-roading, concluding that while capable for general use and towing, extreme off-road scenarios are still a way off for EVs due to battery placement and ground clearance concerns. The episode also features reviews of the Peugeot 308 GT, Suzuki Jimny, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Ford Ranger Raptor, and a special edition Mazda MX-5, alongside the usual 'MuskWatch' segment covering AI, SpaceX, and Tesla's business ventures. less
Tesla Model 3 vs Nissan Leaf vs Hyundai Ioniq Electric: 2019 Comparison Review
This comparison review pits the Tesla Model 3 against the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq Electric, focusing on real-world range and driving experience ... morein Australia. The reviewer found the Nissan Leaf to be the least enjoyable to drive, citing poor ride comfort at higher speeds and a lack of steering engagement, despite its useful e-pedal system. The Hyundai Ioniq Electric impressed with its conventional feel, comfortable ride tuned for Australian roads, and honest range readout, though its sloping roofline limits practicality. The Tesla Model 3, while positioned as premium, felt futuristic rather than luxurious, with a polarizing minimalist interior. Its major drawbacks were a harsh ride and the need to pay for Supercharging. In terms of real-world range, the Model 3 significantly outperformed the others, being the only one capable of returning to the starting point without recharging. Ultimately, the Model 3 is recommended for its range and tech, the Ioniq for its comfort and conventionality, and the Leaf is deemed less appealing due to its driving dynamics and efficiency. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools In The Shed Ep. 97
In this episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed', the hosts delve into the evolving EV landscape, discussing new contenders c... morehallenging Tesla and the future of commercial electric vehicles. A significant portion is dedicated to feedback on Tesla Model 3's fit and finish, with listeners noting concerns about build quality despite the brand's technological appeal. The discussion highlights Rivian's impressive specs and Ford's investment, BYD's innovative 'smart device' approach to EVs, and NIO's unique battery-swapping model aimed at addressing charging times. The hosts also review the Holden Equinox LT, praising its competent and practical nature, surprisingly punchy 2-liter turbo engine, and comprehensive safety features, despite its low visibility on Australian roads. The Citroen C5 Aircross is commended for its comfort-focused approach to SUV design, while the Peugeot 308 GT is noted for its sporty handling. The episode concludes with a 'MuskWatch' segment, covering Elon Musk's Mars-nuking ambitions, Tesla's relaunched solar offering, and a significant lawsuit filed by Walmart over alleged fires related to Tesla's solar installations. less
CarsGuide Podcast: Tools in the Shed Ep. 96
The CarsGuide Podcast tackles the Tesla Model 3, offering a mixed verdict. While acknowledging its impressive acceleration, particularly in the Perfor... moremance variant, and its competitive range for the price point, the hosts raise significant concerns about build quality. Panel gaps and finish issues were noted, leading to questions about overall construction standards, especially for a vehicle commanding a premium price. The reviewer preferred the driving dynamics of the rear-wheel-drive entry-level model over the all-wheel-drive Performance variant, despite the latter's blistering speed. Real-world range fell short of claimed figures, with the entry-level model achieving around 300km in less-than-ideal conditions, and the Long Range model around 360km. Despite these criticisms, the podcast suggests range anxiety is diminishing due to improving infrastructure, though a 1000km range is seen as a future benchmark for widespread adoption. less