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 2 of 12.
Volkswagen ID.4 2025 Review: VW's Tesla Model Y Rival Finally Arrives in Australia – But Is It Good?
The Volkswagen ID.4 finally arrives in Australia, presenting a significantly updated version that aims to compete in a crowded EV market. The entry-le... morevel Pro trim, priced just under $60,000 before on-road costs, offers a compelling package with a 210kW rear-mounted motor and a 77kWh battery delivering a competitive 544km WLTP range. The reviewer highlights the ID.4's comfortable and spacious interior, particularly praising the supportive seats and the versatile center console design. Practicality is strong, with good rear-seat room and a 544L boot. However, the reliance on a touchscreen for climate and volume controls is noted as a drawback, requiring drivers to lean forward and potentially be distracted. On the road, the ID.4 offers a plush, comfortable, and quiet ride, prioritizing a stately feel over sharp handling, distinguishing it from sportier rivals. While not the most dynamic, its smooth acceleration and adjustable suspension (with standard adaptive dampers) cater to a wider audience. The safety systems are well-calibrated and non-intrusive. Ownership benefits include a 5-year unlimited km warranty, 2-year/30,000km servicing intervals, and a competitive service plan. The ID.4 is deemed a worthy contender, especially for those prioritizing comfort and a refined driving experience, though its infotainment interface could be improved. less
Audi Q6 E-Tron 2025 Review: New Electric Car Undercuts Porsche Macan EV and Targets BMW iX3 SUV
The 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron arrives as a significant, albeit familiar, offering in the premium electric SUV segment. While sharing the new PPE platform wi... moreth the Porsche Macan EV, the Q6 e-tron delivers a driving experience that is quintessentially Audi – refined, capable, and comfortable, particularly with the optional air suspension. The reviewer highlights its strong performance, impressive charging speeds (270kW peak), and a WLTP range of up to 641km, though real-world efficiency is noted as needing further evaluation. Interior technology is advanced with large screens and a passenger display, but the reliance on haptic controls and the lack of physical buttons are points of contention. Practicality is generally good, with ample boot space, though rear-seat knee room is described as merely adequate for its class. The reviewer expresses a slight disappointment that the Q6 e-tron doesn't push boundaries further in terms of innovation, feeling very much like a traditional Audi in an era where rivals are exploring more radical concepts. Despite this, it's praised for its solid build, excellent safety calibration, and competitive ownership proposition. less
Volvo EX30 vs Smart #1 2025 Review: Which New Dual-Motor AWD Small SUV Is The Best Electric Car?
The Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Performance Ultra and Smart #1 Brabus are compared as premium dual-motor AWD small electric SUVs. Both share Geely's SE... moreA platform and offer impressive performance, with 0-100 km/h times under 4 seconds. However, they diverge significantly in design, interior practicality, and driving dynamics. The Smart #1 Brabus is praised for its more intuitive interior with physical buttons, a head-up display, and better rear-seat space. Its driving experience is described as more engaging and aggressive, feeling like a "serious fast car." Conversely, the Volvo EX30 is noted for its minimalist Scandinavian design, quieter cabin, and superior active safety systems, which are more refined and less intrusive. The reviewer finds the EX30's reliance on the central screen for most controls, including steering wheel and mirror adjustments, to be a drawback, along with a lack of a standard sunroof blind and a less direct brake pedal feel. Despite a steeper learning curve, the EX30 is suggested for long-term ownership due to its quieter ride and potentially better range, while the Smart #1 is favored for immediate driving enjoyment and practicality. Real-world range for both is estimated at 340-370 km. less
Renault Megane E-Tech 2025 Review: Long-Term Electric Car Test Of Stylish New Hyundai Kona EV Rival
The Renault Megane E-Tech Techno EV60 is presented as a significant step forward for the brand in the EV space, aiming to rival models like the Hyunda... morei Kona Electric. The reviewer highlights its striking European design, both inside and out, and a unique interior with a focus on physical controls rather than solely relying on a touchscreen, reminiscent of traditional combustion cars. Practicality is a mixed bag; while storage solutions are clever, rear-seat space and amenities are noted as being somewhat limited compared to segment rivals. The driving experience is praised for its light steering, refined and quiet cabin, and reactive handling, feeling more like a traditional hatchback than some other EVs. However, it lacks a single-pedal driving mode and has a bouncy ride over urban imperfections. Downsides include poor rearward visibility, the absence of a 360-degree camera, and a front-mounted charging port. While the official WLTP range is 454km from its 60kWh battery, real-world testing suggests it can meet or even beat this figure in combined driving. Charging is good on DC fast chargers (up to 90kW observed), but the 7kW AC inverter significantly limits slow charging speed. Overall, it's deemed a good value proposition for those seeking a familiar-feeling EV for city driving, but less ideal for family-focused buyers. less
Leapmotor C10 2025 Review: Is This Cut-Price Tesla Model Y Rival the Best New Electric SUV to Buy?
The Leapmotor C10 positions itself as a compellingly priced electric SUV, aiming to make EVs accessible to a wider audience with a starting price comp... morearable to mid-spec combustion engine rivals. While it succeeds in offering significant interior space and a comfortable, quiet ride, compromises are evident. The reviewer highlights the lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a basic interior with limited physical controls, and notably slow DC and AC charging speeds. Performance is described as adequate rather than exciting, with a soft suspension tune that prioritizes comfort but can lead to secondary bounce. Despite these drawbacks, the C10's value proposition, generous warranty, and capped-price servicing make it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers looking to transition to electric motoring, though it doesn't quite match the amenities of its more expensive rivals. less
Ranger Rattler! BYD Shark 6 Hybrid 2025 Review: Plug-in EV Tech Takes Dual-Cab Pick-up to Next Level
The BYD Shark 6 enters the Australian ute market as a bold, technologically advanced plug-in hybrid, challenging traditional diesel rivals. The review... moreer highlights its exceptional cabin luxury, featuring large rotating screens, premium materials, and comfortable seating, setting a new benchmark for the segment. While its powertrain offers impressive power (320kW) and a significant electric-only range (around 80-90km in real-world conditions), its payload and towing capacities are notably lower than established competitors like the Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max, making it less suited for heavy-duty work. The driving experience is praised for its refinement, quietness, and ease of handling, akin to a luxury SUV rather than a traditional ute, though some may miss the direct feedback from the steering. The reviewer notes the infotainment system's complexity, particularly climate controls being primarily screen-based, and the inconsistent driver attention alert. Despite these points and a higher-than-expected ownership cost, the Shark 6 is lauded for its innovative approach, offering a glimpse into the future of the ute segment with its electric-driving focus and advanced features. less
Zeekr X 2025 Review: New Small SUV a Better Version of the Volvo EX30 and Smart #1 Electric Cars?
The Zeekr X 2025 is presented as a compelling, high-quality electric SUV that challenges established premium brands. The reviewer highlights its disti... morenctive Swedish-designed, Chinese-manufactured appeal, drawing comparisons to the Volvo EX30 and Smart #1, while emphasizing its unique styling and premium interior details. The all-wheel-drive flagship model impresses with its potent 315kW dual-motor setup, delivering exhilarating 0-100km/h acceleration in just 3.8 seconds, outperforming even a Porsche 911 in this regard. While not offering Porsche-level handling, the X provides a comfortable, composed, and quiet ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections. Practicality is adequate for its class, though rear-seat window visibility is noted as a drawback for children, and boot space is modest. The reviewer praises the intuitive controls, excellent visibility, and the convenience of features like proximity locking/unlocking. Efficiency figures slightly missed Zeekr's claims in testing, but the overall package is deemed high quality, great to drive, and good value, making it a strong contender for those new to EVs. less
Toyota Tundra Hybrid 2025 Review: Massive New US Pick-Up Truck Targets Ram 1500 and Ford F-150
The 2025 Toyota Tundra Limited Hybrid marks Toyota Australia's ambitious entry into the large US pick-up segment, locally remanufactured by Walki... morenshaw. Its standout feature is the potent i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, delivering impressive power and torque, making it the most powerful Toyota sold locally. The reviewer highlights the Tundra's immense road presence and spacious cabin, particularly the generous rear legroom, which surpasses competitors like the Ford Ranger. However, the Tundra falls short in payload capacity compared to the Hilux and faces a significant price premium in Australia ($155,900) versus its US market equivalent. Practicality is a mixed bag: while the tray is well-appointed and towing capacity is excellent (4,500kg), its sheer size makes it cumbersome in urban environments. The reviewer notes some minor rattles and quirks in the right-hand-drive conversion, such as misplaced buttons and an unusual HVAC sync function. The 4x4 system, while capable, is not a full-time system, limiting its on-road versatility. Despite these drawbacks, the Tundra offers a confident and comfortable ride, especially on highways and for long-distance towing, bolstered by Toyota's strong after-sales support. less
Toyota Prado 2025 Review: Does the New LandCruiser 250 Series Live Up to the 4WD Legend?
The 2025 Toyota Prado (LandCruiser 250 Series) marks a significant evolution, addressing many criticisms of its predecessor while retaining its core o... moreff-road prowess. The reviewer highlights the striking retro-modern exterior design and a well-balanced interior that blends digital displays with practical physical controls. Key improvements include enhanced visibility, a more refined ride thanks to the new chassis and electric power steering, and a suite of non-intrusive safety features. The 2.8L turbo-diesel with a 48V mild-hybrid system offers adequate performance, though not outright speed, with real-world fuel consumption around 10L/100km. The GXL trim is identified as a sweet spot, offering a good balance of features and capability. However, a notable drawback is the compromised boot space when the third row is folded, which the reviewer considers a significant packaging issue. Despite this, the new Prado is lauded as a comfortable, capable, and user-friendly family vehicle, representing a substantial leap forward from the 150 series. less
Volvo XC40 Electric 2025 Review: Long-Term Test Shows EV Adds Fun Factor Via Rear-Wheel Drive Switch
The 2025 Volvo XC40 Recharge, specifically the Plus trim with its new rear-wheel-drive configuration, receives a largely positive long-term review. Th... moree reviewer praises its enduring, modern design and a significantly improved driving experience thanks to the switch to RWD, which enhances comfort and compliance over the previous AWD version. The Google-based operating system and over-the-air updates are highlighted as positives for connectivity. However, the interior, while simple and functional, feels dated in some aspects, particularly the small screen size and lack of certain modern features like a head-up display or vehicle-to-load. Storage space is also noted as a significant drawback, feeling narrow and limited, especially in the rear seats and center console. Despite these shortcomings, the XC40's refined ride, smooth drivetrain, and sensible energy consumption make it a compelling, well-balanced option, particularly for city dwellers, though regional buyers might find charging infrastructure a concern. The reviewer concludes that the XC40 has aged gracefully and remains a strong contender, especially with its recent upgrades. less
Toyota LandCruiser FJ 2025 Preview: What We Know About The New Cut-Price 4Wd Rival To Suzuki Jimny!
This newscast discusses the potential return of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, rumored to be a compact, cut-price 4WD rival to the Suzuki Jimny. While th... moree existence of the model is strongly suggested by Toyota Australia trademarking the 'Land Cruiser FJ' name, its exact specifications and market positioning remain uncertain. The discussion highlights that multiple iterations are likely, with a cheaper version for emerging markets based on the Hilux Champ platform, and potentially hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and EV versions for markets like Australia. The presenters express skepticism about the Hilux Champ-based SUV's design for Australian tastes, favoring a retro-styled model inspired by the Compact Cruiser EV concept. Key concerns include the powertrain options, with a strong emphasis on the need for hybrid technology to meet future emissions laws and market demands. The potential pricing, which needs to be significantly under the Fortuner and well above the Jimny, is also a critical factor for its success. Production is rumored to start in November, with a reveal expected soon, but the final Australian-market model may differ significantly from initial emerging-market versions. less
Cupra Tavascan 2025 Review: New Electric Car Stands Out With Design
The Cupra Tavascan 2025 enters the Australian market as a bold, design-led alternative to established electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y. While pric... moreing is yet to be confirmed, it's expected to start above $65,000, with the performance-oriented VZ all-wheel-drive model tested here likely closer to $90,000. The Tavascan impresses with its striking exterior and a highly unconventional, three-dimensional interior featuring unique materials like neoprene and a distinctive 'spine' design. Practicality sees some compromises due to the styling, with a deep but narrow console and a fixed center console height. The large 15-inch touchscreen offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but relies on distracting touch-based sliders for climate control. Driving dynamics are a strong point, with sharp steering, a controlled yet engaging ride, and a willingness to allow some playful handling, setting it apart from more sterile EV rivals. The VZ model offers 250kW but isn't as brutally fast as a Model Y Performance, focusing instead on balanced driving engagement. Real-world range figures are not yet available, but the rear-wheel-drive Endurance model is expected to prioritize efficiency. Safety systems are generally well-calibrated, though traffic sign recognition can be overly sensitive. Overall, the Tavascan is a unique and engaging EV that prioritizes style and driving feel over outright practicality or affordability, making it a compelling, albeit niche, choice. less
Volkswagen ID. Buzz 2025 Review: Is This The Electric Kombi Van Adventurers Have Been Waiting For?
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz is presented as a compelling electric reimagining of the iconic Kombi van, blending retro aesthetics with modern EV techn... moreology. The reviewer highlights its impressive practicality, particularly the spacious interior across all three rows, making it suitable for families and potentially campers. The driving experience is praised for its responsive steering and comfortable ride, especially for a van, with the GTX variant offering a noticeable performance edge. However, the review points out significant drawbacks in the user interface, criticizing the over-reliance on touch controls and sliders, which are deemed fiddly and less intuitive than physical buttons or dials found in other VW Group products. While the design is lauded for its nostalgic appeal and clever space maximization, the energy efficiency is noted as being comparatively high, consuming over 20 kWh/100km even in its most efficient configurations. Despite these criticisms, the ID. Buzz is considered a strong contender, offering a unique proposition in the market with a well-priced range and an engaging driving dynamic. less
Audi E-Tron GT 2025 Review: Major Update For Fast, Stylish Electric Car Rival To Porsche Taycan EV!
The 2025 Audi e-tron GT receives a significant mid-cycle update, enhancing its performance, charging capabilities, and design. The reviewer highlights... more the new flagship 'Performance' grade, which boasts the most powerful Audi EV powertrain to date, delivering exceptional acceleration. Key improvements include a faster DC charging rate (up to 320kW) and enhanced regenerative braking. While the exterior design sees subtle refinements, the interior benefits from redesigned, supportive sports seats and updated tech. The driving experience is praised for its composure at high speeds on the Autobahn, sharp steering, and surprisingly comfortable ride, attributed to the new active suspension. The reviewer notes the car's GT nature, suitable for long trips, yet capable of potent performance. Despite its impressive handling and performance, the rear seating can feel a bit cramped. The car's infotainment and virtual cockpit are lauded for their user-friendliness and reliability. Overall, the updated e-tron GT is considered a strong, impressive rival to the Porsche Taycan, offering a distinct, more 'lively' design. less
Hyundai Ioniq 5 2025 Review: More Driving Range, Sporty N Line Pack For Updated Tesla Model Y Rival!
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5, particularly in the Epiq N Line AWD configuration, presents a compelling package that rivals established players like the Te... moresla Model Y. The reviewer highlights its striking design, which remains contemporary despite being on the market for several years. The N Line package adds a sporty aesthetic with unique bumpers, wheels, and interior accents, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Ioniq 5 impresses with a blend of physical and digital controls, spaciousness thanks to its long wheelbase, and practical features like adjustable rear seats and ample storage. Performance is strong, with brisk acceleration and composed handling, further refined by the N Line's suspension upgrades. The real-world energy consumption of 16.8 kWh/100km is noted as impressive, contributing to a practical driving experience. While the turning circle is noted as large and the default overspeed warning system is a minor annoyance, the overall verdict is highly positive, praising its smooth ride, excellent dynamics, quality, and value proposition. less
MG3 Hybrid+ vs Suzuki Swift Hybrid 2025 Comparison Review: Which Petrol-Electric City Car Is Best?
In a head-to-head comparison, the 2025 MG3 Hybrid+ Excite and the Suzuki Swift Hybrid Plus present compelling options for budget-conscious city car bu... moreyers. The MG3 impresses with its full hybrid system, offering superior acceleration (0-100 km/h in 8 seconds) and the ability to drive on pure electric power, alongside a more contemporary interior design and slightly more rear passenger space. Its standout feature is the extensive 10-year/250,000 km warranty. However, the Swift Hybrid Plus emerges as the value champion, boasting a lower price point, a more comfortable ride that excels at ironing out bumps, and superior fuel efficiency (4.0 L/100 km claimed vs. MG3's 4.3 L/100 km). While the Swift's mild-hybrid system is less potent, its agile handling, better visibility, and overall more engaging driving experience, coupled with a more flexible 60/40 split-folding rear seat, give it the edge in overall value for money. Despite the MG3's performance and warranty advantages, the Swift Hybrid Plus is ultimately crowned the winner for its superior comfort, dynamics, and value. less
Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid vs Kia Sorento HEV 2025 Comparison Review: Which Hybrid Family Car Is Best?
In a head-to-head comparison, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid (Calligraphy) and Kia Sorento Hybrid (GT-Line) offer compelling, yet distinct, family-h... moreauling options. While mechanically similar, their design philosophies diverge significantly. The Santa Fe boasts a bold, boxy, and modern aesthetic, complemented by a more luxurious and spacious interior, particularly noted for its excellent visibility and easier ingress/egress. Its standout feature is the comprehensive third-row airbag coverage, a crucial safety advantage for families. The Sorento presents a more conventional, sporty, and conservative design, with a driving experience that feels sportier due to heavier steering and a more engaging feel. Both vehicles deliver impressive fuel efficiency, with the Sorento slightly edging out the Santa Fe in real-world testing. However, the Santa Fe's superior practicality, advanced safety features, and more comfortable, prestigious driving dynamics ultimately make it the preferred choice for the reviewer. less
Volvo EX30 2025 Review: Cool New Electric Car Enters Small SUV Segment
The Volvo EX30 2025 enters the small SUV segment with a compelling package, aiming to challenge rivals like the Alfa Romeo Junior EV. The reviewer hig... morehlights its sharp pricing and a range of standard features, including a 12.3-inch central screen with Google services and a Harmon Kardon sound system. Design-wise, it's praised for its modern take on Volvo's boxy aesthetic, particularly the 'Hammer of Thor' headlights and distinctive tail lights, offering a "jacked-up hatchback" feel. The interior boasts a minimalist design with comfortable wool-blend trim, though some hard plastics and quirky tech integrations, like the sliding wireless charger and the two-step cup holder mechanism, can be frustrating. The reviewer notes the single motor extended range version offers brisk acceleration (0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds) and a real-world energy consumption of 18.3 kWh/100km, slightly above the WLTP claim. While the ride quality is generally impressive and parking is a breeze, the car can feel a bit "bottom heavy" over undulating roads. The EX30 is well-equipped with safety features and offers a 5-year unlimited kilometer warranty with 8-year battery coverage. The verdict is that while the EX30 presents some frustrating packaging and tech solutions, its overall appeal as a zippy, comfortable, and adorable city EV makes it a strong contender, provided buyers invest time to understand its unique features. less
Next-Gen Mitsubishi Pajero Preview: Should Toyota LandCruiser 300 and Nissan Patrol Y63 Be Worried?
The Mitsubishi Pajero is poised for a comeback, with strong indications pointing towards a new generation large SUV. While not officially confirmed by... more name, Mitsubishi has trademarked 'Montero' in the US and expressed a desire to revive the Pajero nameplate in Australia. The upcoming model is expected to diverge significantly from its predecessors, moving away from a diesel engine towards a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. It's also anticipated to adopt a car-like monocoque platform instead of a traditional ladder-frame chassis, potentially sharing components with the Outlander PHEV but with increased power (under 300kW). This shift aims to position the new Pajero as a more premium, comfortable, and potentially city-friendly alternative to rugged off-roaders like the LandCruiser 300 and Nissan Patrol Y63, targeting buyers who may not utilize full towing or extreme off-road capabilities. Pricing is speculated to be in the $90k-$100k range, reflecting the advanced technology. A launch is tentatively expected around mid-2026 or early 2027. less
Mini Cooper 2024 Review: Next-Gen Mini Hatch 3-Door Takes Design-Led Fight to Audi A1 and Fiat 500e
The 2024 Mini Cooper marks a significant evolution, particularly with its all-electric Cooper E and SE variants. The reviewer highlights the "aut... morehentic clever simplicity" in its design, featuring cleaner surfacing and a distinctive octagonal grille. Inside, the circular OLED screen is praised as exceptionally fast and intuitive, complemented by the use of sustainable, non-animal materials. While the electric platform provides a low center of gravity and a refined, agile driving experience with impressive grip even in adverse conditions, the petrol versions are noted as feeling like an older generation. Practicality remains a Mini hallmark, with limited rear space and a modest 210L boot capacity. The Cooper SE offers a WLTP range of approximately 403km, though real-world testing yielded 17.8 kWh/100km. The reviewer's verdict leans heavily towards the electric models, deeming the Cooper SE "elevated" and one of the most enjoyable EVs driven, surpassing expectations. less
Best City EV? Fiat 500e 2024 Review: Long-Term Test of New Mini Cooper Electric Rival
The 2024 Fiat 500e, specifically the top-spec La Prima trim, is presented as a charming and fun city car, rivaling the Mini Cooper Electric. While its... more design is lauded for its commitment to the classic 500 aesthetic with thoughtful interior details and a surprisingly comfortable ride for its class, it's not without its drawbacks. Practicality is a significant compromise, with limited rear-seat space and a small boot, making it best suited as a second car rather than a primary vehicle for those who regularly transport passengers or cargo. The reviewer highlights the car's engaging driving dynamics, instant electric torque, and excellent maneuverability in urban environments. However, its real-world highway range falls short of the claimed figures, necessitating frequent charging on longer journeys. Despite a slightly disappointing ANCAP score, the 500e boasts an extensive list of active safety features with well-tuned interventions. Ownership is marred by a short warranty period, though servicing is affordable and capped. less
Polestar 4 2025 Review: Does This New Electric Car Have The Tesla Model Y EV's Number?
The Polestar 4 aims to disrupt the mid-size electric SUV segment, positioning itself as a premium alternative to the Tesla Model Y. Byron Mathioudakis... more finds the Polestar 4 to be a compelling package, praising its striking coupe-like design, luxurious and spacious interior, and refined driving dynamics, particularly in the single-motor rear-wheel-drive configuration which he deems marginally more fun and refined. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant offers exhilarating performance but can feel heavy on 22-inch wheels. Key highlights include the innovative rear-view camera system replacing the traditional rear window, extensive use of recycled materials, and a user-friendly Google-based infotainment system. While pricing is competitive against rivals like the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz EQC, it is undercut by the Tesla Model Y. The reviewer notes that Australian-bound models will feature a revised suspension tune, addressing minor handling inconsistencies found in the dual-motor test car. Overall, the Polestar 4 presents a strong case with its blend of style, performance, and luxury, with the single-motor RWD version being the recommended choice based on this initial assessment. less
Kia EV9 2024 Review: Long-Term Test | Is the New Mid-Spec Earth Electric SUV the Best Family Car?
After a three-month long-term test, the Kia EV9 Earth is lauded as potentially the best car the reviewer has tested in 15 years, even ranking among th... moree top seven-seater SUVs including luxury brands. Its futuristic and imposing design is complemented by a spacious, practical, and high-end interior, though the gear shifter design and the multimedia system's complexity are noted drawbacks. The Earth trim offers a strong balance of features, including AWD and a large battery, but notably lacks a head-up display and sunshades. Practicality shines with its height for child seat access and cavernous cargo space, enhanced by a useful V2L port. Driving dynamics are praised for their comfort, light steering, natural pedal feel, and excellent visibility, making it easy to maneuver despite its size. While the reviewer highlights the car's silent operation and instant acceleration, the intrusive and difficult-to-disable speed limit alerts and driver distraction warnings detract from the otherwise serene experience. Real-world range is close to the claimed 512km, averaging around 480km, and efficiency is slightly better than advertised. Charging is efficient with 800V architecture, though finding 350kW chargers is difficult, resulting in longer charging times on more common chargers. Despite its high price, the EV9 is considered almost worth it for its blend of EV capability and family-hauling prowess. less
MG3 Hybrid+ 2024 Review: Next-Gen Hatch Shakes Up City-Car Segment, Putting Toyota Yaris on Notice
The 2024 MG3 Hybrid+ represents a significant leap forward for the model, moving from a budget-focused, long-standing predecessor to a modern, hybrid-... morepowered hatchback. The reviewer highlights its handsome design, improved cabin quality with textured materials, and surprisingly comfortable rear seating with amenities like air vents and a USB port. The standout feature is the "Hybrid+" powertrain, which offers a substantial 155kW combined output, making it surprisingly potent for its class and more powerful than rivals like the Toyota Yaris Hybrid. Real-world efficiency is commendable, with the reviewer achieving 4.8L/100km on a country loop and an impressive 3.4L/100km in urban conditions, though it's noted to be more sensitive to driving style than a Yaris Hybrid. Positives include its comfortable and composed city driving, excellent visibility, and tight turning circle. However, the reviewer points out significant cost-cutting measures, such as a non-split folding rear seat, flimsy boot floor, and a tinny boot closure sound. Road noise is a major drawback on longer drives, making it tiresome at highway speeds. While the safety kit is comprehensive, the implementation of lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control is criticized for being unpredictable and prone to phantom braking. The reviewer concludes that while the petrol version is a sharp deal, the Hybrid+ struggles to justify its premium price over rivals, despite its impressive powertrain and efficiency when driven correctly. less