Family Cars

The true successor to the Ford Falcon is finally coming, with a new name, fresh body styles and the right powertrain for our times, and it should be huge.This isn’t speculation or hyperbole either, but the facts behind an upcoming entire family of electric vehicles (EVs) recently announced by Ford’s global CEO, Jim Farley.With the first model badged Fathom, they represent a return to brand values at a most critical time in the company’s 123-year history.While not yet announced for Australia, the Fathom name has already been trademarked in this country, while its architecture has been engineered for right-hand-drive, auguring well for an eventual local launch.Starting from around $A40,000 in the US when orders commence early next year, the Fathom will initially launch as a four-door, five-seater mid-sized dual-cab EV of monocoque construction.Despite what the styling implies, this is not a ladder-frame pick-up, but an integrated ute around the size of the existing and highly successful Maverick, which is sadly unavailable in Australia.The Fathom is expected to eventually be part of a wider family of EVs that will likely include an SUV spin-off.In other words, Ford is devising a range of models that sit at the heart of the global new-vehicle market.Van and possibly passenger-car and crossover versions are also set to arrive in time.These are all possible due to some smart thinking behind what Ford calls the Universal EV Platform (UEP).New from the ground up, this is a modular architecture designed and engineered to be as flexible as possible.A key component of the UEP’s flat, skateboard framework is an integrated lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery module to provide extra strength and packaging efficiency.Other details, including range and specifications, will be released at a later date.Created to keep costs down, UEP is a direct response to the dramatically increased competition from China, as well as from South Korea, Japan and Europe.China in particular has rewritten the rules on hybrid and EV affordability, so Fathom is part of Ford’s wider fightback strategy.And not for the first time since 1903, either.Have no doubts. Philosophically, Fathom is a modern Falcon in all but name.The Fathom is a textbook return to everything the Falcon was and represented when Ford unveiled it in America in September, 1959.Back then, the company was struggling amid recession and the financial fallout of the multi-billion-dollar Edsel premium brand disaster.These were happening against the backdrop of booming sales for smaller and cheaper European (and later Japanese) models, like the Volkswagen Beetle and Renault Dauphine – something that none of the major American carmakers foresaw nor had adequate responses for.Described as a “compact”, it’s mad to think the Falcon was Ford’s direct answer to the Beetle, but until then, the Blue Oval’s smallest US offerings were still massive, like the 1959 ‘Tank’ Fairlane.With demand far outstripping forecasts, in one fell swoop, the original Falcon turned Ford around, outselling all before it.And let’s not forget – the Falcon also spawned the phenomenon that was the original Mustang.After all these years, Ford is hoping that magic Falcon lightning will strike again with Fathom. And, in the latter 2020s, it makes sense for that to be dual-cab ute. Going where the buyers are.The first Falcon was released in Australia in September, 1960, starting a 56-year battle against Holden, finally toppling it from number one for the first time in 1982.Before utes and SUVs ruled, sedans and wagons were on top, something the also-modular Falcon provided, along with ute and panel van alternatives.Fast forward to today, and Ford is profitable in North America but struggling in Europe, China and elsewhere, including in Australia.The least expensive new Ford passenger vehicle is the Everest Active 4WD from $58,990 before on-road costs.That’s why the Falcon handbook has been dusted off and modernised to better-suit consumer tastes, as the 2027 Fathom.Ford is returning to its roots by going back to basics.Here’s why the Fathom would be relevant for Ford Australia.We might be a ute and SUV-loving nation, but our appetite for EVs is now amongst the strongest in the world per-capita, so the timing couldn’t be more crucial.Especially as Ford is facing massive fines under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) because its carbon pollution-heavy internal combustion engine-powered T6 II Ranger ute and its Everest diesel SUV spin-off account for around 90 per cent of total brand sales volumes.Plus, it will be increasingly difficult for Ranger and Everest sales to sustain the same cadence as before, coming under pressure from newer and mainly hybridised competition pouring into Australia.Of course, Ford will continue to evolve the T6 II models, and it’s believed that body-on-frame replacements – likely from China – are in the pipeline as the end of the decade nears.

Could Mitsubishi's new Pajero spawn a lust-worthy three-door version. We certainly hope so, with the internet producing 'Shorty' renders that have us drooling.We know that Mitsubishi has plans for the Pajero family to grow beyond the Triton-based 4WD that will launch in Australia soon.In fact, the brand says that: “In addition to the "Pajero" to be launched this year as a model that embodies the DNA of Mitsubishi Motors-ness, we will introduce additional new models going forward as part of the 'Pajero' series.”Could one of those models be a smaller, three-door variant, like this hopeful render that has appeared on AutoEvolution?International media certainly thinks so, with sites like Japan's BestCar confirming a smaller variant is coming.It would be one of three Pajero models, including the one we've seen, a smaller mid-size SUV offering, and a third LandCruiser FJ -style 4WD, according to reports.For now, the new Pajero looms, and will arrive in Australia sporting a 150kW/480Nm 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine — a version of the Triton's well-known donk.Unlike the Triton, though, the Pajero's power is fed through an eight-speed automatic, which should help with both fuel use and refinement.It also has a wider track and more advanced suspension than its ute sibling, too.It arrives in three grades – the GLS with five or seven seats, the Exceed and the flagship GSR – with pricing spanning $68,490 to $84,990.“For four generations, the Pajero has defined Mitsubishi. It has stood out for its capability, comfort and sheer dependability, showcasing the best Mitsubishi has to offer,” says Mitsubishi CEO, Shunichi Kihara.“The All-New Pajero takes the Pajero backstory and modernises it. It maintains its flagship position in the global Mitsubishi hierarchy, combining Pajero’s core attributes and applying it in a way that defines modern ‘Mitsubishiness’.

The Porsche Cayenne S Electric is the middle member of the initial three-tier line-up that has launched in Australia in 2026.Priced from $193,000 for the SUV and $194,500 for the Coupe, the Cayenne S Electric is only just over $8000 more than its petrol alternative. For that money you get:21-inch alloy wheelsMatrix LED headlightsIlluminated ‘Porsche’ lettering on the bootlidPanoramic glass roofFour-zone climate controlEight-way adjustable sports seatsBose surround sound audio system with 14 speakersThis new electric version has the same basic silhouette of the previous Cayenne, but the details give it a distinctive look, this new model is longer and lower than the internal combustion versions. The details of the design also give it a sharper, more modern look too. The same is true of the interior, with a modern design that keeps the Cayenne Electric contemporary, but also practical and loaded with all the technology modern buyers expect.The Cayenne S has a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain that makes 400kW (490kW on Overboost) and 1080Nm and has a 0-100km/h time of a very rapid 3.8 seconds.Range for the Cayenne S is rated at 571km, thanks to its 106kWh battery, which is the most of the range.As for safety, the Cayenne Electric is as well equipped as you should expect a car at this price to be. There are all the features that have become the norm, including speed limit warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, etc.But it’s not the fact that it has all the safety features that’s impressive, it’s the level of calibration, with very good integration.

The Renault Symbioz is a new, small SUV from the French brand. We drove at its Aussie launch this year, but this is the first time we’ve lived with it for a week and I almost feel sorry for the thing.You see, the Symbioz was sparkling clean, fresh from being built in Valladolid, Spain before landing in the middle of a battlefield of Aussie suburbia with a four-year-old who immediately smudged chocolate in the seat and an 11-year old with more appointments and commitments than a prime minister.The Symbioz that I tested for family friendliness is the entry-grade Techno with the mild hybrid system.It was a long week. Here’s how it went...The Renault Symbioz model range is small in Australia consisting of only two grades. We tested the entry-level Techno mild hybrid, although you can get a full hybrid.The list price of the Symbioz Techno mild hybrid is $36,990 before on-road costs, which is a lot more expensive than some Chinese rivals like the Jaecoo J5 or a Chery Tiggo 4, and a smidge more than the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross or Mazda CX-30. It is, however, more affordable than the hybrid-only Nissan Qashqai.The Symbioz Techno is worth the extra money even if the value isn’t as good as a Chinese SUV, because the difference is higher quality fit and finish and a more enjoyable car to drive.Standard features on the Techno include 18-inch alloy wheels, proximity unlocking, push-button start, a 10.4-inch media screen and 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Google Automated services.The seats are a synthetic fabric and that means chocolate wipes straight off, thankfully.Our test car is fitted with the optional electronic glass roof which turns from transparent to opaque thanks to a dispersed polymer liquid crystal film between the sheets of glass. The beauty of this is that there's no need for a sunshade that could reduce head room. Check out my video here to see it work.Yes, while value isn’t one of the Renault Symbioz’s strengths it does have a lot of compelling attributes.Four attributes stand out as the strengths: the design, quality feel, practicality and the way it drives.I truly believe that the Symbioz is the best-looking small SUV for the price right now. I love the rear design especially with the razor-sharp tail-lights, but the entire vehicle is superbly styled and looks far more expensive than the price tag.The same goes for the interior and not just the design, but the feel of the fabrics and materials, switches and the steering wheel. Many SUVs try to aim for a stylish look, but few achieve the feel. This also goes for the thoughtful layout of this cabin that places everything within reach and where it should be.The practicality of the Symbioz is also outstanding. As a mum to two kids that insist on bringing everything everywhere, a small SUV (it’s 4.4m long) is generally too small for us. But the excellent storage, occupant space and boot, which expands from 460L-592L because the rear row is on rails, has me rethinking that rule. If you’re a family in an urban setting but need all the storage and room that kids and adults require, then seriously consider the Symbioz.The materials are also easy to clean and feel hard wearing, too.Finally, the way the Symbioz drives is so engaging. Yes the 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine has a bit of the dreaded turbo lag and yes the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission can be a little clunky.In a world of fully electric cars with seamless stop and go, this engine and transmission feels a bit antiquated, but the Symbioz is still so enjoyable to pilot in an old-school way.As much as I love EVs for urban duties like the daycare drop off, grocery shopping and after-school sports dashes, I’d missed how fun these little runs can be in something with great handling and steering and a grunty little engine.Well, as mentioned the price is a bit steep, but you’re getting a nicer car for the money than many rivals.Also the warranty is only five-years/unlimited kilometres, which is falling behind many mainstream brands. Servicing is required every 30,000km or 12 months. You can buy a five-year service package for $2700 which is about $540 a visit and that’s expensive compared to a few rivals.And then there’s the fuel consumption. The mild hybrid isn’t as fuel efficient as the full hybrid and because I drove it like a rally queen, I used an average of 10.5L/100km over about 150km of driving.The official fuel consumption is 6.4L/100km but personally I don’t think they were flying this small SUV to school and pre-school to Scouts to Kung Fu to birthday parties and tutoring all with just 15 minutes to get to all of these places. With more moderate urban driving, a lower figure is certainly achievable.Finally, the Symbioz has not been rated by ANCAP, but its Continental equivalent, EuroNCAP only gave it four-out-of-five stars for safety. This was partly because it lacks a front centre airbag and front knee airbags, as well as average occupant protection for the driver.

My 2016 Foton Tunland has a slight ticking noise at revs from the rear of the engine.

My 2017 Kia Carnival is out of warranty can I still claim any diagnostic repairs?

My 2009 Nissan X-Trail is going forward only, and won’t move in Reverse

What OBD protocol does the 2010 Great Wall V240 petrol dual-cab use?

In my 2010 Subaru Forester, there’s a clunk when shifting back to third or fourth gear.

It may sound far-fetched, but Genesis is hoping to compete with the upper-echelon of bespoke luxury SUVs when its all-new GV90 arrives.But while the idea of the GV90 rivalling the likes of the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, there is one key reason why the brand should be taken seriously - the man in charge.Luc Donkerwolke is now the Chief Creative Officer for Genesis, but previously he was the man responsible for designing the Bentayga.He actually left the British brand before the SUV was done, so officially the design credit for the Bentayga is given to SungYup Lee - who is now the design boss for Hyundai.So either way, Genesis and Hyundai have all the skills and experience to design a genuinely luxurious SUV.There is a big difference between designing a premium SUV and being able to sell it. The GV90, which is based on the Neolun concept from 2024, will be an all-electric flagship for the brand and is expected to cost more than $200,000 when it arrives in Australia next year.Given Genesis’ slow sales growth trajectory in Australia since it arrived in 2019, pushing so far upmarket is a risk, but one the brand is actually looking forward to. “I think our brand actually needs a halo like that right now,” said Tim Rodgers, Product Planning and Development Manager for Genesis Australia.“We haven't quite showcased our full capability in that regard and just how high we can stretch the levels of luxury in a car. The flagship SUV that you mentioned, I think that's ready to turn some heads and opinions about Genesis brand, and I think it's the right time now.”Given the premium nature and price tag, Genesis Australia is most likely to offer the GV90 on a strict order-only basis, which means there will be limited stock in showrooms and customers will be able to order them to their personalised preferences. Again, Rodgers believes this is advantageous for the brand and claims it will actually play to its strengths.“ We do a lot of build-to-order anyway, so it's not really anything new for us. So in that sense actually, we're set up in an ideal situation to leverage that kind of car,” he said. The arrival of the GV90 as a flagship luxury SUV will follow the launch of the new Magma performance sub-brand. Globally the company has committed to introducing a Magma variant of every model in the range and has begun with the GV60 Magma small SUV.Justin Douglass, Head of Genesis Australia, explained the impact of Magma has already been felt.“ I think when you look at the amount of goodwill towards a brand from the moment that we announced that Magma was coming to life there's been a lot of interest for a couple of years now,” he said.“I think when the production version was shown in November last year, it created an immediate influx of register-your-interests here in Australia."I think for any brand to have a true performance luxury variant added to their range is always gonna be beneficial and exciting and attract a new customer base, and as I said, create some real emotion and energy around the brand as well. So yeah it's absolutely an exciting addition for the brand.”While the GV90 will act as the flagship for the brand in terms of luxury, the Magma GT is expected to be the halo sports car. The mid-engined coupe was revealed as a concept at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June and Hyundai Motor Group’s global CEO, Jose Munoz, made it clear he wants to put it into production as soon as possible. Without being confirmed for production it’s difficult for Douglass and Rodgers to commit to Magma GT plans for Australia, but they are both adament it will come here if it’s built in right-hand drive.“ If it was made available to us, absolutely,” Douglass said.Without confirming the Magma GT would be available here, Rodgers suggested right-hand drive production is likely. ”We act like a global car company because we are,” he said.“There's plenty of models in right-hand drive that we've developed that, maybe on paper don't really make sense, but we've done it because that's what a global car company does, right?”