SUV

The final installment of the Berry family's long-term test of the GWM Tank 500 Ultra is here. Does a recent discovery change the verdict?

Toyota has confirmed the hybrid LandCruiser 300 Series will arrive in Australia in the first half of next year, but to the casual observer something appears off.In the UAE, where the vehicle will be launched first, Toyota claims it uses 10.9 litres per 100km. The diesel version currently on sale uses 8.9L/100km.This number seems high for Toyota hybrid fans that are used to fuel figures below 5.0L/100km… And it is.The LandCruiser 300 Hybrid uses a twin-turbo petrol V6 engine paired with a hybrid battery and electric motor combo. It is the same set-up found in the Tundra full-size ute, and is dubbed 'i-Force Max' in Toyota speak.It makes a whopping 340kW and 790Nm, which far outshines the current version’s 3.3L twin-turbo V6 diesel that produces 227kW/700Nm. There lies the answer to the fuel use question. This hybrid set-up isn’t geared towards efficiency but for performance and boosting the vehicle’s capabilities.It is more efficient than a non-hybrid assisted petrol engine, of course, but if what CarsGuide has experienced in the Tundra is anything to go by, it’s still a thirsty beast.During a preview drive of the Tundra, CarsGuide’s Andrew Chesterton said: “Tow heavy loads or get too adventurous with the accelerator and the number will be much higher than that.“We saw, wait for it, 25L/100km, pop up on our admittedly fairly vigorous test.”Marcus Craft in his off-road test fared better: “I recorded 14L/100km on this test. I did a fair bit of high- and low-range 4WDing and the Tundra was never working hard.”The Tundra is heavier than the LandCruiser, so the 300 Series Hybrid should be able to do better than the American pick-up truck.The verdict on how the i-Force Max engine performs while driving is another matter. All our reviews said it was a star performer in the heavier Tundra, with smooth, linear power delivery and no torque gaps. It is adept for those wanting to tow and will eat up long highway kays with ease.Toyota has also moved to quell fears that electrification will impact capability, saying in a statement, "The LandCruiser HEV’s hybrid system has been designed with true off-road reliability in mind."Even in the unlikely event of hybrid unit failure, the vehicle can continue operating solely on the combustion engine, ensuring peace of mind in remote areas."The hybrid battery area has been specially waterproofed to maintain the LandCruiser’s famed fording ability, allowing it to tackle rivers and water obstacles with confidence."Additionally, the vehicle also offers a third-row seat and cargo layout specifically optimised for the addition of the HEV system, ensuring no compromise in versatility or interior space," the statement said.It appears the hybrid LandCruiser 300 is a big step forward in how the off-road hero will perform, but be aware it’ll cost you at the bowser, especially as it is likely to need premium unleaded petrol.

The plug-in hybrid market is slowly but surely gaining traction in Australia, and Kia has thrown its hat into the ring with the flagship Sorento GT-Line PHEV AWD.

XPeng next to go fully factory backed?

Ripples from Toyota Australia’s mid-2024 decision to move all of its hybrid-available model lines to pure hybrid continue to radiate with a price rise applied to the three-row, seven-seat Kluger hybrid as pure combustion models are officially deleted from the price list.

The Land Rover Defender will gain more V8 options for the 2026 model year (MY26) as the British firm moves to rejuvenate the much-loved off-roader with design and tech updates.

This could be the luxury electric SUV to rule them all.

Sometimes wireless Apple Carplay does not connect. Has good warnings about speed cameras or level crosssings. Warns about school zones outside of advertised hours. Big screen. Electric third row seats make it easy to use third row, compared to manual fixtures. Second row tumbles forward and can be 40/20/40 split. Climate control concierge can keep every area happy. No room behind third row when in use. Engine has plenty of get up and go. You can chose between Drive modes like ECO and Sport. Has a smooth ride for the bumps and pot holes. Good vision out the windscreen and mirrors. Need to switch off steering assistance as it can be over-reactive, as can be the automatic brake system. Quiet for a diesel. Fixed-price Servicing is $595 every six months. They give me a loan car when being serviced. Shop around for insurance as some companies are double the premium of others. Would average about 10 litres per 100km overall and about nine on the freeway. The car always started first time. No gearbox issues. Adjustable-height suspension works quietly.

Overnight Nissan revealed the new, Y63-generation version of its high-performance Patrol Nismo ahead of an imminent launch in the Middle East.

Toyota says just 100km of electric driving range is enough, as rivals are targeting more than 200km of range for their plug-in hybrids.