CarsGuide

CarsGuide

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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.

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Showing 24 of 268 total titles. Page 6 of 12.

2022 BMW iX Electric SUV Detailed Review: Makes the Tesla Model X Look and Feel Ancient!

2022 BMW iX Electric SUV Detailed Review: Makes the Tesla Model X Look and Feel Ancient!

The BMW iX xDrive 50 Sport is a deeply impressive, albeit expensive, electric SUV that challenges established players like Tesla and Audi. While its p... olarizing design might divide opinions, the interior is a standout, offering an exquisite, minimalist aesthetic with sustainable materials and luxurious comfort, including a unique electrochromatic sunroof. The driving experience is genuinely enjoyable, characterized by exhilarating acceleration, excellent steering response, and a remarkably plush, quiet ride, despite its considerable weight. Practicality is strong, with ample interior space for five adults and a usable boot, though it falls short of the Audi e-tron's cargo capacity. The iX boasts extensive safety tech and a competitive real-world driving range, with the xDrive 50 achieving around 630 km WLTP. However, the infotainment system requires a learning curve, and the three-year warranty lags behind some competitors. Ultimately, the iX delivers a compelling package of technology, luxury, and performance that may even win over design skeptics once experienced. less
Best Cars Nobody Buys: Mazda MX-5 Roadster, Jeep Gladiator and More! - CarsGuide Podcast #220

Best Cars Nobody Buys: Mazda MX-5 Roadster, Jeep Gladiator and More! - CarsGuide Podcast #220

This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast delves into 'best cars nobody buys,' highlighting vehicles that deserve more attention in the Australi... an market. The hosts discuss the Ford Fiesta ST, praising its driving dynamics and heritage as a "blue-collar performance" hero, despite Ford's global shift away from hatchbacks. The Citroën C4 and the broader Peugeot/Citroën lineups are noted for their technical innovation, comfort, and value, though hampered by low brand awareness and perceived resale issues in Australia. The Jeep Gladiator is presented as a surprising underperformer, failing to capture the dual-cab ute market despite its lifestyle appeal and unique features, possibly due to brand image and towing capacity limitations. The Jaguar F-Type is lauded as a performance bargain, offering supercar-level power at a fraction of the price of rivals, though its aging design and unsubtle V8 may be contributing factors to its low sales. Finally, the Mazda MX-5 is championed as an enduring, fun-to-drive sports car that remains excellent value, even as sales figures suggest market saturation or a shift towards weekend toy ownership. The hosts also share their recent driving experiences: the Nissan Leaf e+ struggles with interstate EV infrastructure, the Hyundai Staria impresses with its bold design and practicality as a commercial-based passenger vehicle, and the Ford Mustang Mach 1 is celebrated as a special, emotionally resonant V8 muscle car, albeit with a high price tag. less
2022 Peugeot 3008 Hybrid Review: New GT Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric SUV - Australia Road Test

2022 Peugeot 3008 Hybrid Review: New GT Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric SUV - Australia Road Test

The Peugeot 3008 GT Sport Plug-in Hybrid is presented as Peugeot's first electric SUV in Australia, though it's a hybrid. The reviewer finds... it to be a good SUV, praising its design, comfortable and attractive seats, practicality with ample storage and passenger space, and a smooth, powerful driving experience with excellent acceleration (0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds). The ride comfort and handling are also noted as good for a mid-size SUV. However, the vehicle faces significant criticism regarding its value proposition, being priced at $79,990, which is $20,000 more than the petrol equivalent and more expensive than rivals like the Volvo XC40 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid. As a plug-in hybrid, its electric performance is deemed subpar: the 13.2 kWh battery offers a real-world electric range of only 45-50 km (less than Peugeot's claimed 60 km), and charging is slow due to a 3.7 kW inverter, taking around seven hours for a full charge even at a 22 kW station. The reviewer also dislikes the steering wheel design and position, the reversing camera's picture quality, and the brake pedal feel, which is common in hybrids due to regenerative braking. Servicing costs are also highlighted as pricey. The verdict is that while it's a competent SUV, its high price and disappointing electric range/charging capabilities make it a questionable choice in the hybrid segment. less
Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD 2022 Review Feat. Boston Dynamics Robot Dog Spot

Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD 2022 Review Feat. Boston Dynamics Robot Dog Spot

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD 2022 is reviewed as an outstanding urban car, exceeding expectations with its practicality, range, and ease of driving. The re... viewer highlights its futuristic yet retro design, spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom, and a practical 527-liter boot. While the interior design is described as functional rather than aesthetically pleasing, its user-friendliness is praised, contrasting with more complex interfaces. The AWD version, priced around $80,000, comes with a comprehensive suite of standard features including dual 12.3-inch displays, a Bose sound system, and advanced safety tech. Performance is noted as impressive, with 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, and the handling is surprisingly good due to the low center of gravity. Real-world urban energy consumption was measured at 16.1 kWh/100km, slightly better than Hyundai's claim. The reviewer suggests the rear-wheel-drive model might suffice for urban use, making it a compelling value proposition. The vehicle also boasts bi-directional charging capabilities, acting as a mobile power station. less
Mazda MX-30 2022 Electric Car Review: Living With the E35 Astina EV for Three Months!

Mazda MX-30 2022 Electric Car Review: Living With the E35 Astina EV for Three Months!

The Mazda MX-30 E35 Astina, after a three-month evaluation, is presented as a stylish but ultimately impractical electric vehicle primarily suited for... city use. Its standout features include a unique design with quirky "suicide" rear doors, a surprisingly engaging and fun-to-drive experience that retains Mazda's signature handling, and a well-appointed, distinctive interior with recycled materials. However, these positives are significantly overshadowed by major drawbacks. The most critical issue is its extremely limited 200km range, which is deemed insufficient for most Australian buyers and makes it a questionable value proposition compared to rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Tesla Model 3, and Polestar 2, which offer double the range for less money. Practicality is also compromised by the rear-opening doors, making access difficult, and the boot space is notably small. Charging is slow on AC, further limiting its usability. While praised for its driving dynamics and safety features, the MX-30's high price and limited range make it a difficult car to recommend for those seeking a pragmatic EV, positioning it more as a niche second car for urban dwellers. less
Best Hybrids Coming to Australia in 2022: Santa Fe, Sorento, Haval & More! - CarsGuide Podcast #218

Best Hybrids Coming to Australia in 2022: Santa Fe, Sorento, Haval & More! - CarsGuide Podcast #218

This episode of the CarsGuide podcast, episode 218, focuses on the upcoming hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles arriving in Australia in 2022. The host... s discuss a dozen models, ranging from performance-oriented vehicles like the Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance and Volkswagen Touareg R, to more mainstream options such as the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, Kia Sorento Hybrid, and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Key discussion points include the growing consumer appetite for hybrids as a stepping stone to EVs, potential fuel savings, and emission reductions. The hosts express skepticism about the sales potential of certain models, like the Ford Escape PHEV, due to market competition and pricing. They also highlight the increasing performance capabilities offered by hybrid technology, even in luxury and performance segments. The podcast also touches upon vehicles recently driven, including the Ford Ranger FX4 Max, BMW 128ti, and BMW iX3, offering brief insights into their driving dynamics and market positioning. less
BMW iX3 2022 Review: First Full-Electric BMW SUV in Australia Driven

BMW iX3 2022 Review: First Full-Electric BMW SUV in Australia Driven

The BMW iX3 arrives in Australia as the brand's first all-electric X model SUV, directly challenging rivals like the Audi e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace, ... and Mercedes-Benz EQC. Priced just under $115,000, it offers a compelling package of standard features, including adaptive LED headlights, adaptive suspension, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-inch multimedia touchscreen. Its exterior design closely mirrors the conventional X3, with subtle blue accents and aerodynamic wheel designs being the main differentiators. Inside, the cabin is classic BMW, featuring a driver-focused layout, premium materials, and ample space for passengers, with a 510-liter boot capacity. The iX3 boasts a 80 kWh battery delivering a WLTP-rated range of 460 km, with real-world consumption averaging 19.1 kWh/100km. Performance is brisk, with 210 kW and 400 Nm from its rear-mounted electric motor, achieving 0-100 km/h in under 7 seconds. The reviewer highlights the car's refinement, comfortable ride (though firm in Sport mode), and impressive handling, noting the lower center of gravity. While safety features are comprehensive, the vehicle has not yet been officially crash-tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. The ownership proposition is strengthened by a 5-year Chargefox subscription and a competitive service plan. Overall, the iX3 is praised for its value, practicality, and enjoyable driving experience, making it a strong contender in the premium electric SUV segment. less
Lexus NX 2022 Review: NX 250, NX 350 and NX 350h Hybrid Luxury SUV Models Tested in Australia

Lexus NX 2022 Review: NX 250, NX 350 and NX 350h Hybrid Luxury SUV Models Tested in Australia

The second-generation Lexus NX marks a significant improvement over its predecessor, transforming from a disappointing effort into a formidable conten... der in the luxury mid-size SUV segment. The reviewer highlights a vastly improved interior with a simpler, more intuitive design and high-quality materials, though minor rattles and fiddly capacitive touch controls are noted drawbacks. Driving dynamics have seen a major leap, with the NX now offering a comfortable yet engaging experience, a stark contrast to the previous generation. The NX 350h hybrid is praised for its refined and economical performance, while the NX 350 turbo offers a punchier, sportier drive. Fuel efficiency is a strong point, especially for the hybrid variants. Safety features are comprehensive, including a notable Safe Exit Assist. Overall, the reviewer concludes that the new NX is a compelling alternative to established European rivals, offering sharp pricing and high specifications, making it a must-consider for buyers in this segment. less
Best New SUVs Coming to Australia in 2022: Mazda CX-60, New X-Trail & HR-V

Best New SUVs Coming to Australia in 2022: Mazda CX-60, New X-Trail & HR-V

This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast delves into the most anticipated SUVs and crossovers arriving in Australia in 2022. The hosts discuss a wide arr... ay of new models, from mainstream updates like the Mazda CX-5 facelift and Nissan X-Trail, to new entrants like the Cupra Formentor and Ateca, and electric options such as the Mercedes-Benz EQB and MG ZS EV. Key talking points include the potential for competitive pricing on new brands like Mahindra, the ongoing debate about EV range and performance, and the practicalities of performance SUVs. The review also touches on vehicles recently driven, including the value-focused GWM Haval Jolion Lux, the track-focused Porsche 911 GT3, and the updated Subaru BRZ, offering a comprehensive look at the evolving Australian automotive landscape. less
Best New Cars Coming to Australia in 2022: Cupra Leon, Model S Plaid & More - CarsGuide Podcast #216

Best New Cars Coming to Australia in 2022: Cupra Leon, Model S Plaid & More - CarsGuide Podcast #216

This episode of the CarsGuide podcast delves into the most anticipated new cars arriving in Australia in 2022, with a particular focus on sedans and h... atchbacks. The hosts highlight a strong presence from the Volkswagen Group, including the exciting Cupra Leon and the updated Skoda Fabia. The Peugeot 308 receives high praise for its design and driving dynamics, while the Ford Fiesta ST and Focus ST are noted for their performance updates. The Honda Civic Type R is anticipated as a major contender. In the sedan segment, electrification is presented as a key factor in keeping the format alive, with the Genesis G80 Electrified and Mercedes-AMG EQS53 leading the charge. The Tesla Model S Plaid is singled out for its extreme performance, boasting incredible acceleration and range. The discussion also touches on the enduring appeal of traditional combustion engine sedans like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A3, acknowledging that these might be among the last of their kind before a full shift to electric powertrains. The podcast also reviews recently driven vehicles, including the Jeep Compass Trailhawk (criticized for its ride and value), the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (highly praised for its design, practicality, and impressive real-world range), and the Audi Q2 40 TFSI (noted for its performance and features, but with a firm ride and dated media interface). less
Best Electric Cars Coming to Australia in 2022: Kia EV6, BYD, GV60 & More - CarsGuide Podcast #215

Best Electric Cars Coming to Australia in 2022: Kia EV6, BYD, GV60 & More - CarsGuide Podcast #215

This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast dives into the exciting wave of electric vehicles arriving in Australia in 2022. The hosts highlight a significa... nt shift in consumer interest towards EVs, tempered by ongoing concerns about affordability and charging infrastructure. While premium offerings like the Audi e-tron GT, BMW i4, Genesis GV60, and Kia EV6 promise impressive performance and technology, their high price points remain a barrier for many. The discussion pivots to more budget-conscious options, with BYD's Yuan Plus and EA1 (Dolphin) showing potential to lower the entry cost for EVs in Australia, though brand recognition and direct online sales models present challenges. The podcast also touches on the evolving landscape of EV technology, including battery advancements and the integration of Google software, while acknowledging that Australia's charging infrastructure and vast distances still require significant development to fully support the growing EV market. less
Volvo XC60 2022 Review: Mild-Hybrid SUV with Google Connectivity - Australia Detailed Family Test

Volvo XC60 2022 Review: Mild-Hybrid SUV with Google Connectivity - Australia Detailed Family Test

The Volvo XC60 B6 R-Design for 2022 presents a compelling package as a mid-size luxury SUV, particularly for families. The reviewer highlights its upd... ated Google-integrated infotainment system, subtle yet appealing exterior styling, and a comfortable, contemporary cabin. Positives include the powerful mild-hybrid engine, a smart integrated booster seat for children, and extensive standard safety features like autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist (which can be permanently disabled). However, the practicality for families with very young children is a concern, with a rearward-facing capsule significantly impacting front passenger space and a boot capacity that is on the smaller side compared to rivals. The ride quality, while generally good thanks to air suspension, can still feel the impact of the standard 21-inch wheels. The reviewer notes the transmission can be a bit busy in cruise control and the cruise control itself can fluctuate in speed. Despite these minor drawbacks, the XC60 is deemed a very impressive and safe family SUV, especially for those with older children or without the need for extensive cargo space. less
Audi E-tron 2022 Review: Sportback 55 First Edition - The Best Premium Electric SUV EV Yet?

Audi E-tron 2022 Review: Sportback 55 First Edition - The Best Premium Electric SUV EV Yet?

The Audi e-tron Sportback 55 First Edition, reviewed over a three-month period, is praised for its premium interior, comfortable ride, and attractive ... coupe-SUV styling, which the reviewer finds superior to the traditional wagon. The spacious cabin, particularly the natural seating position in the rear thanks to clever battery packaging, and the competitive boot space are highlighted as significant advantages. However, the vehicle's high price point, substantial weight impacting handling dynamics, and disappointing real-world energy consumption (averaging 28.1 kWh/100km, yielding about 340km range) are noted drawbacks. The reviewer also expresses a preference for traditional side mirrors over the digital ones and points out the lack of a one-pedal driving mode. Despite these criticisms, the e-tron Sportback is considered a well-packaged, premium, and comfortable electric SUV, though its position is challenged by rapidly arriving rivals. less
EV Swaps: Converting Petrol Classics Into Electric Cars, Yay or Nay? - CarsGuide Podcast

EV Swaps: Converting Petrol Classics Into Electric Cars, Yay or Nay? - CarsGuide Podcast

This CarsGuide Podcast episode delves into the controversial topic of converting classic petrol cars into electric vehicles. Richard argues that EV sw... aps are a 'clever' and practical solution, emphasizing environmental benefits, future-proofing against taxes, and the idea that cars are merely machines that can be upgraded. He highlights the ingenuity required for such conversions and dismisses the notion of a car's 'soul.' Justin, on the other hand, strongly opposes these conversions, labeling them 'criminal.' He believes classic cars should retain their original character, including their engines and sounds, which he argues are integral to their appeal and driving experience. Justin contends that altering a classic car, especially a performance model like the BMW M3 CSL, ruins its balance and essence, taking away more than just the powertrain. The debate touches on the emotional connection owners have with their vehicles versus the pragmatic need for modernization and sustainability. less
2022 Nissan Leaf Electric Car Review: Leaf e+ Long-Term Test - Range, Charging, Driving!

2022 Nissan Leaf Electric Car Review: Leaf e+ Long-Term Test - Range, Charging, Driving!

The Nissan Leaf e+ long-range variant is presented as a practical, understated electric hatchback that offers a comfortable and easy driving experienc... e, making it a good entry point for those hesitant about adopting EVs. The reviewer highlights its plush interior finishes, SUV-like seating position, and surprisingly spacious rear seats, along with a decent 405-liter boot. However, the vehicle's primary drawback is its value proposition, with the reviewer noting its price is now higher than more modern rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2, which also offer superior range and technology. While the official range is around 385 km, real-world freeway consumption spiked to the mid-20s kWh/100km, raising concerns for longer trips, though it proved adequate for daily use. The charging setup includes both Type 2 AC and CHAdeMO DC ports, with the latter supporting up to 100kW charging for a 10-80% charge in 45 minutes. Despite its comfortable ride and user-friendly nature, the Leaf's dated interior tech, manual seat adjustments, and less sophisticated driver assistance systems compared to competitors detract from its appeal, making its high price the most significant hurdle. less
2022 Subaru Forester Review: Facelifted Midsize SUV Arrives in Australia, Up Against RAV4 and CX-5!

2022 Subaru Forester Review: Facelifted Midsize SUV Arrives in Australia, Up Against RAV4 and CX-5!

The 2022 Subaru Forester receives a facelift that brings subtle exterior design tweaks but more significant updates to its driving dynamics, safety, a... nd technology. While the interior design is described as busy with numerous buttons, its practicality is highlighted, offering ample legroom and a large boot, though phone storage and wireless charging are noted as shortcomings. The Forester range offers good value, with standard features across all trims being a strong point compared to rivals. The 2.5-liter boxer engine is praised for its sound and adequate grunt, but the CVT transmission is identified as the primary weakness, hindering acceleration and the overall driving experience despite the inclusion of paddle shifters. The vehicle excels in comfort and handling, particularly on gravel roads, thanks to its excellent all-wheel-drive system and impressive 220mm ground clearance, making it more off-road capable than many competitors. Fuel efficiency for the petrol model is considered average to thirsty. Ownership costs, particularly servicing for the petrol variant, are noted as pricey, though the five-year unlimited kilometer warranty is standard. Overall, the Forester is lauded for its practicality, safety, and comfortable, planted driving experience, but the CVT holds it back from achieving a higher score. less
Lexus UX Electric Car Review: 2022 UX 300e EV SUV Tested in Australia - Range, Charging and More!

Lexus UX Electric Car Review: 2022 UX 300e EV SUV Tested in Australia - Range, Charging and More!

The Lexus UX 300e marks the brand's entry into the Australian EV market, offering a premium small SUV experience that closely resembles its petro... l counterparts. The reviewer highlights its attractive design, particularly the rear lighting, and a surprisingly sporty driving dynamic thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive electric motor. The interior is praised for its premium feel and extensive standard equipment, even on the entry-level Luxury trim. However, the UX 300e is not without its drawbacks. Practicality in the rear is limited, with cramped legroom and headroom for adults. The infotainment system, controlled by a frustrating trackpad, is noted as a significant downside, especially when compared to modern touchscreen interfaces. Critically, the 305 km WLTP range is significantly below the segment average, and real-world testing yielded an even lower 296 km. While Lexus offers solutions for longer trips, the limited range and dated infotainment are key considerations. The verdict suggests it's a suitable EV for city dwellers but less ideal for those requiring frequent long-distance travel. less
2022 Polestar 2 Electric Car Review: Is This Tesla Model 3 Rival the Best New EV in Australia?

2022 Polestar 2 Electric Car Review: Is This Tesla Model 3 Rival the Best New EV in Australia?

The Polestar 2 emerges as a compelling new entrant in the Australian EV market, directly challenging the Tesla Model 3 with an attractive price point ... and distinctive Scandinavian design. The reviewer highlights its appealing aesthetics, a minimalist interior with a strong focus on sustainable materials, and a surprisingly comfortable ride that balances sportiness with practicality. Key strengths include its well-composed driving dynamics, which manage the battery weight effectively without feeling cumbersome, and a user-friendly infotainment system developed with Google. However, the reviewer notes that the top-spec performance model, while still very fast, doesn't quite match the outright acceleration of the Model 3 Performance, and cabin noise can increase at higher speeds. A significant drawback is the placement of crucial safety and driver-assist features, such as adaptive cruise control and surround-view cameras, within an optional 'Pilot Pack', which is considered essential despite the added cost. Overall, the Polestar 2 is praised for its design, performance, and value, making it a strong contender for EV-curious buyers. less
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Hybrid 2022 Review: PHEV Plug-in Hybrid EV Variant Test

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Hybrid 2022 Review: PHEV Plug-in Hybrid EV Variant Test

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV offers a compelling blend of electric and petrol power, but its significant price premium over the turbo-petrol vari... ants raises questions about its value proposition. While the AWD system, powered by front and rear electric motors and a 2.4L Atkinson cycle engine acting as a generator, provides smooth and quiet EV driving, the claimed 55km electric range (45km WLTP) may not suffice for all commutes. The reviewer notes the petrol engine's performance is merely adequate and could be improved. The driving experience, while competent in city conditions with light steering and good visibility, lacks engagement and refinement, with a firm ride over patchy surfaces. Practicality is also impacted, with reduced boot space (359L vs 405L) and no spare wheel in the PHEV. Interior space, particularly headroom, can feel cramped due to battery packaging and the dual-pane sunroof. Despite these drawbacks, the top-spec Exceed trim offers desirable features like leather, a head-up display, and heated seats. Real-world fuel consumption was recorded at 4.5L/100km starting with a full battery, significantly better than the 8.5-9.5L/100km of the petrol version, but the $12,000-$15,000 price difference is a major hurdle. The reviewer suggests alternatives like the Kia Niro PHEV, Hyundai Ioniq PHEV, MG HS PHEV, or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for those seeking better value or a more refined experience. less
Cars We Hate To Love! The Overlooked Gems That Deserve More Sales: CarsGuide Podcast #207

Cars We Hate To Love! The Overlooked Gems That Deserve More Sales: CarsGuide Podcast #207

This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast delves into the often-overlooked vehicles that deserve greater sales success. The hosts discuss several models, ... including the Ford Fiesta ST, Peugeot 3008, Mini Clubman, Peugeot 508, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and Mazda 6, highlighting their strengths like design, driving dynamics, and practicality, while questioning their poor sales figures. Contributing factors discussed include brand recognition, market trends favouring SUVs, and the perceived risk of non-mainstream brands. The podcast also touches upon recently driven vehicles like the MG HS plug-in hybrid, Audi Q5 Sportback, and Mercedes-Benz S450 L, offering brief impressions. Additionally, listener feedback explores potential future Toyota sports cars and the growing EV market, including Tesla's production capacity and the trend of 'e-swapping' classic cars. less
Mitsubishi Outlander 2022 Review: All-New Seven Seater SUV Tested In Australia

Mitsubishi Outlander 2022 Review: All-New Seven Seater SUV Tested In Australia

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander receives a mixed but generally positive review, scoring 7.5 out of 10 overall. The exterior design is praised for its bo... ld and distinctive appearance, earning a 7/10. However, the interior is described as too conservative and business-like for a family car, lacking fun and refinement, despite good quality knobs and a spacious feel (7/10 for interior). The Aspire trim, while featuring a head-up display and heated seats, is deemed unnecessary, with the LS trim recommended as the sweet spot for value, offering essential features and key safety tech at a better price point (9/10 for price and features). The reviewer highlights significant visibility issues due to thick A and B pillars and the rear seats compromising rearward vision. The ride comfort is a notable drawback, with the suspension described as firm and failing to absorb bumps effectively, making it uncomfortable at times (7/10 for driving). The 2.5-liter petrol engine and CVT transmission are deemed adequate, with the CVT being one of the better implementations (7/10 for engine). Fuel economy is rated at 7/10, with the petrol engine not being particularly efficient, and a hybrid version is noted as forthcoming. Safety is rated 8/10, with the caveat that not all safety kit is standard across all grades. Ownership is strong, with a 5-year/100,000km warranty, capped-price servicing at $199 for five years, and roadside assistance (8/10 for ownership). The reviewer concludes that while it's an easy car to drive, it's not the most comfortable, and storage opportunities are missed. less
Has Mazda Australia Gone Suv Mad?: Carsguide Podcast #205

Has Mazda Australia Gone Suv Mad?: Carsguide Podcast #205

This episode of the CarsGuide Podcast tackles Mazda Australia's aggressive expansion of its SUV lineup, questioning whether the brand is prioriti... zing SUVs to an excessive degree. The hosts discuss the potential for Mazda to offer seven, or even up to ten, SUV models while maintaining its current non-SUV offerings. The review also touches upon specific vehicles recently tested, including the Nissan Navara ST-X, the Mazda MX-30 G20e, and the Kia Cerato GT. The central theme revolves around Mazda's strategic direction in the Australian market, prompting listeners to consider if this SUV-heavy approach is a shrewd move or a potential misstep that could confuse consumers. less
2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric Car Review: EV Rival to Tesla and Kia EV6 Tested in Australia!

2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric Car Review: EV Rival to Tesla and Kia EV6 Tested in Australia!

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is presented as a bold step for the brand into electric vehicle leadership, blending retro-futuristic design with a spacious, mini... malist interior. The reviewer highlights its unique aesthetic, inspired by Hyundai's 1974 Pony concept, and its surprisingly agile, hatch-like driving dynamics despite its large SUV dimensions. The all-wheel-drive model tested offers a respectable 430km official range, with impressive charging speeds (10-80% in 18 minutes on a 350kW charger). Positives include the exceptionally roomy rear seats, innovative V2L function, comfortable ride, and comprehensive safety features. However, minor drawbacks are noted, such as the reach required for the infotainment screen, the sole reliance on USB-A for wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a small frunk. The reviewer achieved a real-world efficiency of 17.3 kWh/100km. Overall, the Ioniq 5 is praised for its unique proposition, segment-leading attributes, and competitive pricing for its specification, leaving anticipation for Hyundai's future EV endeavors. less
Toyota Kluger vs Kia Sorento 2022 Seven-Seater SUV Comparison Review: Which Is The Best Family SUV?

Toyota Kluger vs Kia Sorento 2022 Seven-Seater SUV Comparison Review: Which Is The Best Family SUV?

The Toyota Kluger and Kia Sorento 2022 seven-seater SUV comparison highlights distinct strengths for each model. The Kluger, particularly the hybrid G... XL variant tested, offers a more comfortable and lighter driving experience than its predecessor, with easy steering and a spacious cabin. However, its interior tech, specifically the eight-inch media screen, feels dated compared to the Sorento's offerings. The Sorento, especially in its top-spec GT-Line trim, impresses with a stunning, modern, and premium interior, superior tech features like larger screens and a digital instrument cluster, and a more stylish exterior. While the Kluger's hybrid system is efficient, the Sorento's plug-in hybrid is significantly more so. The Sorento also offers more boot space and better third-row access and room. Despite the Kluger being more affordable to service, the Sorento provides better overall value with more features for the money and a longer warranty. Ultimately, the Sorento edges out the Kluger due to its superior design, technology, value, and efficiency, though the Kluger remains a comfortable and practical choice. less