Articles by James Cleary

Mercedes-Benz has added new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants to its local GLE large SUV line-up with the arrival of the GLE450e 4Matic in Coupe and traditional SUV wagon form. The newcomer is powered by a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and a single 135kW electric motor integrated into the nine-speed automatic transmission, sending a combined 320kW/680Nm to all four wheels via the three-pointed star’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system. That’s enough to propel the 2.7-tonne five-seater from 0-100km/h in just 5.6 seconds. A 25.7kWh lithium-ion battery gives the sleek coupe version an electric-only range of 91km (WLTP), with the more upright wagon good for 87km. Both are capable of up to 140km/h in EV-only mode. Standard charging set-up is 11kW AC for a zero to 100 per cent top-up in under three hours.  An optional onboard DC charger ($1100) accepts 60kW for a 10-80 per cent recharge time of around 29 minutes. On sale from today (October 15, 2026), the Mercedes-Benz GLE450e 4Matic plug-in hybrid SUV and Coupé are priced at $156,900 and $160,900, respectively (both before on-road costs). Car-spotters should look out for AMG Line exterior styling and Night Package elements, jointly bringing: AMG front apron Matt black roof rails Gloss black exterior mirror caps Star pattern radiator grille Horizontal louvres in the nose air intakes Dark chrome faux underguard Tinted rear windows 20-inch AMG five-spoke alloy wheels (SUV) 21-inch AMG five-twin-spoke alloy wheels (Coupé) Inside, standard features include heated front seats, synthetic leather trim in the SUV (synthetic leather and microfibre on AMG Line sports front seats in the Coupé) and a new steering wheel marking the return of rocker switch and roller controls. Existing GLE standard features include: Three 12.3-inch screens (under single glass surface) Head-up display Burmester 3D surround sound Memory Package Keyless-Go Comfort Package (with hands-free access) 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE450e 4Matic option pricing:

Alfa Romeo may not be troubling the scorers much in terms of new car sales so far in 2026 but a new $15K ‘factory bonus’ on its Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport and Estrema models may drive an up-tick in the run home to the end of the year. The limited-time price offer lowers cost-of-entry for the Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport from $174,200 to $159,200, before on-road costs, while the Giulia Estrema drops from $186,990 to $171,990, BOC. Sales across Alfa’s four-model line-up - Giulia (sedan), Stelvio (medium SUV), Tonale (small SUV) and Junior (light SUV) - are running at a relative trickle this year with the brand down close to 39 per cent year-on-year to the end of September. That said, the Giulia has been the second-biggest contributor (behind the Junior), accounting for 82 of the Italian maker’s 265 sales. The Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport is an aggressive, high-performance, four-door sedan powered by a muscular 2.9-litre all-alloy twin-turbo V6 sending 375kW/600Nm to the rear wheels via an eight-speed auto transmission. A clear rival to Audi's (upcoming) RS5, BMW's M3 and the Mercedes-AMG C63S E Performance, its claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time is an ultra-rapid 3.9 seconds with a maximum velocity of 307km/h. Tech highlights include active suspension with adaptive damping, a mechanical limited-slip differential, active front splitter and multiple ‘DNA’ drive modes. Released in Australia earlier this year, the Giulia Quadrifoglio Estrema adds: Akrapovič titanium exhaust (with carbon-fibre finishers) Monochrome badging Carbon exterior mirror caps Red key covers ‘Scudetto’ carbon grille Door projector lights Carbon illuminated door sills Black (Brembo) brake calipers Black rear nameplate badge $0 special paint Commemorative built plate Certificate of authenticity The price offer is valid until December 31, 2026 and applies to new and demonstrator models ordered and delivered by that date (while stocks last).

The brand may be in limbo in Australia but Peugeot has made a big statement at this week’s Paris Motor Show with the unveiling of a new-generation RCZ Vision sports coupe concept. And the big news under the four-seat GT’s svelte exterior is what the French maker states is a 110mm thick solid-state battery sitting within a 1000-volt electric architecture. Developed in collaboration with US energy specialist, Factorial Energy, Peugeot said the car’s solid-state cells have been tailored to deliver high energy density with “outstanding” charging and power capabilities.  Although its configuration isn’t detailed, Peugeot said the concept’s pure-electric powertrain is good for around 375kW with energy consumption of 11.5kWh/100km, while the battery’s state of charge is capable of rising from 10 to 80 per cent in just 10 minutes. Design highlights include the latest interpretation of Peugeot’s ‘Three Claws’ head- and tail-light signature, a ‘double-bubble’ roof echoing the original production RCZ’s (offered globally from 2009-2015) and a ‘future-generation’ version of the i-Cockpit instrument and steering wheel layout, the latter including transparent Micro LED displays. Underpinned by the Stellantis Group’s modular, multi-energy STLA One platform, scheduled to roll out in production form for B, C, and D segment models from 2027, the sleek concept features active aero, 21-inch front and 22-inch rear rims and a mix of top-shelf materials throughout the cabin, including Alcantara, recycled leather, machined aluminium and frosted glass. The dashboard clock, designed by French watchmaker, Serica, is in the form of the brand’s Parade watch, a floating centre console unites multiple functions including driving modes and climate control, while the air vents are mobile and can disappear into the dash when not in use. Unveiling the car, Peugeot CEO Alain Favey said, “With Peugeot RCZ Vision, we are setting out our vision with a car firmly focused on the future, dedicated to delivering the ultimate driving pleasure.   “With emotion at its heart, this manifesto embodies the boldness of Peugeot and shows that design and technology can work together seamlessly to create an experience that is instinctive, refined and intensely desirable,” he said.

Close to 6000 examples of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 are the subject of a safety recall to rectify a manufacturing fault just months after it went on sale. The Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts has issued a safety recall notice impacting 5925 RAV4s sold new in Australia in 2026. It said a potential fault with the hybrid system’s motor/generator may cause a “loss of motive power whilst driving, (increasing) the risk of an accident, causing serious injury or death to vehicle occupants and other road users.” It confirms that plug-in hybrid examples of front-wheel drive (AXAP62R) and all-wheel drive (AXAP64R) versions of the RAV4 have been impacted. The notice said, “Due to a manufacturing issue with the motor generator electronic control unit (MG-ECU), the motor initialisation process may not complete correctly. This may prevent the electric motor from operating as intended at higher speeds,” the notice said. The department added, “If the electric motor does not operate as intended, warning lights will illuminate and the vehicle may enter fail-safe mode or shut down, resulting in a loss of motive power. “A loss of motive power whilst driving increases the risk of an accident, causing serious injury or death to vehicle occupants and other road users.” All grades of the nominated models sold this year are potentially included and the department says owners of affected vehicles will be contacted in writing by Toyota requesting they schedule an appointment with their preferred authorised Toyota dealer for rectification, free of charge. Alternatively, Toyota can be contacted via the Toyota Recall Assist helpline on 1800 987 366 (Monday to Friday, 08:00 - 19:00 AEST / AEDT), email recallsupport@toyota.dataresponse.com.au or through its website https://toyota.com.au/recalls.

Mitsubishi’s Triton ute looks set to spread its mechanical DNA further than the underpinnings of its Nissan Navara sibling. Reports out of Japan point to a Honda-badged, Thai-built version of the ladder frame workhorse planned for sale in multiple Southeast Asian markets and beyond from 2028. Nikkei Asia has reported increasing competition from Chinese challenger brands in Asia has forced Honda to review its largely stand-alone product policy, tapping into Mitsubishi’s body-on-frame ute expertise as a pragmatic short-cut response. Honda already has the Alabama-built Ridgeline dual cab pickup in its North American portfolio, but that petrol V6-powered monocoque mid-sizer lacks the load carrying and hauling capacity of a traditional ute with a tough leaf-spring rear end. The report references collaboration talks between Honda, Mitsubishi and Nissan, which have been ongoing since August 2024 and notes the Triton’s reputation for durability and off-road performance; in-demand attributes for hard-working trucks in ASEAN countries. Honda entered into numerous model share arrangements with Isuzu through the 1990s (Passport, Horizon, Jazz), but has mainly operated solo since then, so a potential ute collaboration with the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance partners represents a telling shift in the Japanese maker’s new product development model. The report notes that until recently, Japanese brands collectively commanded around 90 per cent market share in Thailand and Indonesia, that figure shrinking to closer to 70 per cent currently as buyers embrace EV passenger and commercial options from the likes of BYD, Chery, Geely, XPeng, Zeekr and many others. More specifically, the report said Honda's combined year-on-year sales in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand have fallen 20 per cent (to around 110,000 units) for the first eight months of 2026. And it’s worth noting the potential arrangement would improve Mitsubishi Motors factory efficiency in Thailand, where a reported collective capacity of approximately 386,000 units resulted in only 170,000 vehicles produced in 2025.  With multiple right-hand drive markets scattered throughout Southeast Asia, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, the possibility of a Honda ute in Australia is significant and CarsGuide contacted Honda Australia for comment on the prospect of a local introduction. A spokesperson told us, “This is not an official announcement made by Honda or Mitsubishi Motors." "While Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi Motors are discussing various potential collaboration opportunities under the framework of our strategic partnership, there is nothing specific to share at this time. "We will make an official announcement at an appropriate time,” they said.

Chinese EV specialist Li Auto looks like it’s on the march towards the Aussie new car market with news the rapidly expanding brand is setting up operations in Malaysia, having already confirmed it will produce right-hand drive versions of two of its most high-profile models. Offering an eight-model line-up in China, across pure-electric SUV and people mover options, as well EREV (Extended-Range Electric Vehicle) SUVs, Li Auto has already stated it will produce its electric Li i6 five-seat SUV and Li Mega EV people mover in RHD for sale in Hong Kong, Singapore and other ASEAN nations before the end of 2026. The move into Malaysia (another RHD market) means Li Auto is almost certainly following a well-trodden path for new challenger brands on their way to opening up shop Down Under. The Li i6 is the entry-point to the Li Auto range, measuring just under five metres long, close to 2.0m wide and around 1.6m tall with a 3000mm wheelbase. But this swoopy SUV is no bare bones base model, featuring a 15.7-inch HD dual screen for backseaters, 20-speaker premium audio and multimedia driven by a high-performance Qualcomm Snapdragon chip set. Highly configurable Nappa leather seats, ambient lighting, power everything, a panoramic roof and close to 730 litres of boot space (with all seats up) mark it as a high-end blend of luxury and practicality. Offered domestically in (250kW/425Nm) single-motor rear-wheel drive and (400kW/660Nm) dual-motor all-wheel drive form, the i6 features an 87.3kWh LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery and supports ultra-fast DC charging for a 10 to 80 per cent top up in less than 15 minutes. Maximum CLTC range is 720km. The Li Mega is a futuristic, strongly aero-influenced (Cd 0.21) luxury people mover offering seven seats including two fully rotating captains chairs in the second row. At over 5.3 metres long, just under 2.0m wide and a bit over 1.8m tall with a 3300mm wheelbase it’s a substantial machine offering everything from heating for all seven seats (ventilation and massage function on the first two rows) multiple large screens, Dolby audio and a dual-purpose refrigerator, to a massive panoramic roof, Nappa leather upholstery and one-touch power doors. With dual electric motors producing overall outputs of 413kW/542Nm this 2.8-tonne beast can blast from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds.  Its 103kWh NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery is good for a quoted CLTC range of 710km and the car’s 800-volt architecture delivers a peak charge capacity of 520kW for a 10-80 per cent charge in just over 10 minutes. The Li i6 single-motor starts at ¥249,800 in China with the dual-motor at ¥269,800. Taking import and distribution costs into account those prices would likely translate to around A$70,000 and A$75,000, respectively, putting it in the same price ballpark as large EV SUV players like the Ford Mach-E (from $65,990), Kia EV6 (from $72,865) and Lexus RZ (from $84,500). The Li Mega costs ¥509,800 in China, which would potentially end up at around A$140,000 here, mixing it with the XPeng X9 (from $89,900) and Zeekr 009 (from $115,900).  CarsGuide has contacted Li Auto through its Beijing HQ for comment on the Li i6 and Li Mega’s potential sale in Australia.

Volkswagen Australia has moved to shake up its mid-size ID.4 pure-electric SUV with a bigger battery in the entry-grade, new onboard features, revised controls and upgraded active safety systems for the 2027 model year. Even as local electric vehicle (EV) sales boom, the ID.4 remains a sales minnow, recording just over 1300 registrations to the end of September this year compared to the heavy-hitting Tesla Model Y sitting on 35,930 units for the same period. So, to improve the EV’s value-equation and boost sales momentum, while adding $1000 to the before on-road costs price VW has upped the standard specification with its new, in-house-developed Innovision multimedia system (with satellite navigation), physical steering wheel controls, expanded driver assistance technologies and enhanced personalisation features across ID.4 Pro and ID.4 GTX models. The Innovision system is managed through a 12.9-inch touchscreen with nav functionality including a new-gen version of the brand’s ID. Light system, which provides guidance prompts at the base of the windscreen, including animated directional cues for upcoming turns. The MY27 updates bring an increased gross battery capacity of 84kWh for the ID.4 Pro (up from 82kWh) with the official range figure rising marginally from 544 to 546km. The ID.4 GTX retains its 82kWh pack. VW has responded to calls for physical adjustment of commonly-used features, replacing widely unloved touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel with conventional buttons for functions like audio volume, cruise control and phone connection,   At the same time a new ‘Driving Experience Selection with Atmospheres’ set-up allows personalisation of the cabin through coordinated adjustment of a range of comfort and convenience settings. The car’s ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite has also been expanded to include: Traffic sign recognition Front cross-traffic assist Proactive Occupant Protection System Predictive Speed Limiter Enhanced Area View Surround-view Camera System The Predictive Speed Limiter works in conjunction with the car’s adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition to automatically adjust vehicle speed in response to changing limits.  The upgraded VW ID.4 is available now and announcing its improved specification Volkswagen Australia Brand Director of Passenger Vehicles Piergiorgio Minto said, "The MY27 updates introduce a meaningful range of enhancements across technology, safety and personalisation, further strengthening the appeal of the ID. 4 range for Australian customers.”

Ford’s Everest large SUV has proved a consistent favourite with family buyers, thanks in part to regular tweaking from the Blue Oval including new model options and equipment upgrades. And true to form, Ford Australia has released details of the Everest’s 2027 model year line-up featuring new design trims, exterior colours and most significantly, a limited-build Wolftrak edition. Following in the wheel tracks of last year’s Ranger Wolftrak LE, each of the roughly 800 Everest Wolftraks to be produced will feature the Tremor’s “off-road-inspired design elements” including a honeycomb front grille as well as a black finish on the door handles, exterior mirror caps and fender flares. Car-spotters should also look out for a black roof, black ‘Everest’ bonnet lettering and exclusive 20-inch black alloy wheels shod with all-season rubber (17s with Bridgestone Dueler all-terrains are optional), as well as Traction Green and Lime Zest elements across the car’s exterior. No-cost premium paint options are Command Grey, Shadow Black or the new (Wolftrak exclusive) Traction Green. The green highlights continue inside on the leather-accented upholstery, interior trim and stitching. And just to ram the theme home, the heated and ventilated electric front seat backrests feature a bold ‘Wolftrak’ logo embroidered in Lime Zest. Priced from $73,000, drive-away, the Wolftrak is available with the (125kW/405Nm) 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel or (184kW/600Nm) 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine and comes standard with a Premium Towing Pack, including a 3.5-tonne rated hitch, integrated electric brake controller, Tow Haul mode and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Meanwhile, across the rest of the Everest line-up there are design and interior updates and a refreshed colour palette. The entry-level Active 2.0L now features a no-cost optional cloth upholstery in the five-seat version while the Active and higher Sport grade now include synthetic leather trim with the flagship Platinum picking up debossed ‘Platinum’ branding in the front seats. Colour choices have also been updated with Desert Island Blue now available on the Sport and Tremor joining the Wolftrak's Traction Green. To sweeten the Everest’s appeal in the run towards year-end Ford has introduced drive-away prices for the Everest Active, Sport and Wolftrak 2.0-litre models. And on top of that, until December 1, 2026 there’s a $4000 offer on V6 versions of the Everest Active, Sport, Wolftrak and Tremor (at participating Ford dealers) with buyers able to choose between a digital fuel card or an equivalent $4.0K discount on the purchase price.  

LDV has reintroduced turbo-diesel power to its large, seven-seat D90 SUV range with fresh availability of 2.5-litre four-wheel drive diesel models alongside existing 2.0-litre turbo-petrol variants. Diesel was deleted from the local line-up with the arrival of substantial D90 facelift in late 2024, but the new diesel SUV borrows its powerplant from the LDV Terron 9 ute, sending 163kW/520Nm to all four wheels, compared to the 160kW/480Nm of its prior-generation predecessor. All D90s are eight-speed automatic only. The D90 range now consists of three grades across five models (three petrol and two diesel), priced from $43,674 to $58,937, both before on-road costs, for private buyers. ABN holders save a minimum $2184 at the entry-level and close to $3000 on the diesel flagship while a launch offer slashes an additional $4500 off the recommended drive-away prices for private and business buyers until October 31, 2026 (while stock lasts). In 2025, the turbo-petrol D90 was boosted with Miller Cycle combustion tech (to improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption), variable valve lift, high-pressure direct injection and a balance shaft module to reduce engine vibration. Outputs of 184kW/410Nm lifted braked trailer towing capacity to 3000kg in two- and four-wheel drive form while the new 4WD-only D90 diesel models pushes that number to 3500kg. LED headlights & tail-lights Twin 12.3-inch displays (multimedia and instruments) Synthetic leather seats Apple CarPlay / Android Auto / digital radio / Bluetooth connectivity Eight-speaker audio Multi-zone climate control Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual gear selection 18-inch alloy wheels Steel spare wheel Sensor key and push-button start Electrically folding and heated power side mirrors Roof rails Side steps Fender flares Six airbags Adaptive cruise control Rain-sensing wipers Lane-keep assist Lane-change assist Lane departure warning Rear cross-traffic alert Blind spot warning Traffic sign recognition Fatigue reminder and attention assist Tyre pressure monitoring Hill descent control (off-road use) Hill hold assist Rear view camera Front and rear parking sensors The higher Executive grade feature additions like a sunroof, power tailgate, ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, rear privacy glass, a power-adjustable driver’s seat and more. And as its name implies, the new Luxe flagship diesel adds extra standard equipment including: Panoramic sunroof 360-degree camera view JBL premium audio Heated, ventilated & massaging front seats 20-inch alloy wheels (shod with Continental tyres) Front and rear differential locks Power tailgate (with kick sensor) All four-wheel drive models feature off-highway systems including Crawl Control, a rear differential lock and selectable terrain modes. Confirming the diesel D90’s reintroduction LDV Australia General Manager Dinesh Chinnappa said, “Customers have been asking for the return of diesel power to the LDV D90 ever since it was paused from our line-up two years ago.” “Customers have also been asking for a top-tier model, which is why we have introduced the LDV D90 Luxe diesel. “With the revised LDV D90 range we are offering a wider range of price points and giving customers the choice of petrol or diesel power,” he said.

Honda America has moved to make what many driving enthusiasts already regard as the best even better by upgrading the brand’s Civic Type R hot hatch with extra performance, additional standard features and new-generation tech. Marking six generations across 30 years of the Civic Type R, the ultra-fast five-door sports a more aggressive front fascia with a larger grille opening claimed to improve cooling and a deeper front splitter to increase downforce. Inside, a “more refined cockpit” now includes heated front seats and a new trim perforation pattern as well as synthetic suede around the instrument surround and upper front door panels. The Type R's signature alloy shift knob, interior door handles and console trim have a dark grey finish and the climate control and air vent knobs in black, a diamond-pattern mesh dash panel (with black surround) and front door panel trims in silver are designed to up the cabin’s premium feel. Under the skin, the Type R’s ‘K20C’ four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine sends 235kW/420Nm to the front wheels (exclusively) via a six-speed manual gearbox. And under the bonnet, a redesigned engine cover is reminiscent of the powerplants in early-generation Type R models sold in Japan. Other technical changes include optimised suspension damping in +R mode to reduce bounce and impact harshness, more direct brake feel courtesy of a pedal yoke spring and an improved rev match system with faster engine response for smoother downshifts. Google built-in / Google Gemini / Google Maps / Google Play Alexa built-in Auto-dimming rearview mirror Two USB-C ports Improved (dual tone) horn New colour: Meteorite Grey Metallic Tech upgrades to the Honda Sensing safety suite include improved AEB (Auto Emergency Braking) with pedestrian detection incorporating increased system visibility for motorcycles and bicycles.  Adaptive cruise control is also enhanced with improved braking and acceleration response and lane keeping assist features “improved control over road camber and other disturbances for smoother operation”. And for the first time, the Civic Type R is equipped with multi-collision brake to minimise the chances of subsequent impacts after an initial crash. The 2027 Civic Type R will arrive in US Honda showrooms this month with a MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) of US$48,695 (~A$69,900). While local sale of the upgraded Type R isn’t on the cards at this stage, CarsGuide expects another batch of current model Type Rs to land in Australia in 2027.