Articles by Stephen Ottley

Genesis will look to redefine itself with its flagship luxury SUV likely to push the brand into previously uncharted territory, in terms of both potential rivals and price.

Hyundai’s new-generation Santa Fe will arrive in Australia in June and will bring with it hybrid power, a more premium model line-up and more technology as it looks to take on the Toyota LandCruiser and Land Rover Defender.Hyundai Australia has finally confirmed more details for the new model, including the expected announcement that it will, at least initially, be hybrid-only.The 172kW/376Nm 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain will be the only option from launch. It will be available with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard with buyers given the choice of front- or all-wheel drive.Another powertrain, a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive, is likely to be added at a later date.Notably, the local operation has decided to forgo its own ride and handling program to develop a unique suspension tune and will instead take the global set-up.The company has also confirmed the new Santa Fe will be available in three trim grades initially, most likely a base model, a mid-spec Elite and the high-grade. The latter will drop the Highlander badge and instead take on the Calligraphy trim level, as already used on the Palisade, as part of a global naming structure.Exact specifications for each grade haven’t been announced, but the Calligraphy will be available exclusively with a six-seat option, with three rows of two seats. Seven-seat options will also be available.As previously announced, the Santa Fe will also introduce the new XRT sub-brand. Hyundai Australia has not confirmed any details about how XRT will be offered in Australia - with the option to make it a standalone model or a styling pack. In the US it’s offered as its own model, with this more ‘adventurous’  concept adding unique black alloy wheels, all-terrain tyres and other features to create a more rugged look.The precise timing of the Santa Fe XRT has been confirmed, so it’s unlikely to be available from launch in June. Hyundai has said it will not offer the N Line styling pack on the Santa Fe. Some specification highlights across the range will include 20-inch alloy wheels as standard, dual 12.3-inch infotainment and instrument screens, Hyundai Blue Link connectivity with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, a “full suite” of active safety features and matte paint options, plus six interior trims to choose from.Exact specifications across each trim line won’t be revealed until closer to June, when Hyundai Australia confirms pricing.Importantly, the brand is confident that it will have good supply and doesn’t foresee any significant delays for potential customers.

A station wagon is superior to an SUV in most respects. They often offer more rear passenger space, match or better cargo space, and generally provide superior fuel economy, not to mention are more dynamic to drive.

I love fast cars. I’ve been a fan of anything quick since I was a kid, watching every form of motor racing and day-dreaming about supercars. I love driving quickly – in a safe environment, of course – and experiencing the thrill of rapid acceleration and pushing a vehicle to its dynamic limits. Which I say to set the scene for what I’m about to say.

Easter is a time of rebirth and new beginnings, and naturally that turns our mind to cars (what can I say, we have a one-track mind).

Hyundai confirmed its worst-kept secret - it’s toughening up and launching the XRT sub-brand in Australia.

The Kia K4, the all-new replacement for the long-serving Cerato, broke cover at this week’s New York Motor Show overnight and the brand sprung a surprise by revealing the first look at its hatchback sibling.

Hyundai has revealed more details about its refreshed Tucson that it hopes will close the gap to the segment-leading Toyota RAV4. As previously announced, the facelifted 2024 Tucson line-up will be spearheaded by two new hybrid models.

Genesis has announced the launch of its new performance sub-brand - Magma.

Genesis has previewed the next step in its expansion, moving into the upper-large SUV segment to take on the likes of the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS and Range Rover.