1997 Volkswagen Vento Reviews

You’re a new-energy world leader Australia, don’t let anybody tell you any differently. You’re on the cusp of a cheap electricity boom which will only supercharge the transition to electric vehicles.I really don’t like the term “new energy” and I’m embarrassed I used it at all, let alone in the first four words of this story.Forgive me, but it’s now what the industry is calling electricity in relation to EVs and hybrid cars. There’s nothing new about electricity, it’s been keeping the lights on for 150 years, although its success in powering vehicles took longer and this was partly due to not being able to store it in batteries.There’s a lot of emotion in how electricity is produced and also in the viability of electric cars and I don’t really understand why. If I hear another EV naysayer roll out the tired old line about energy prices being prohibitive to running an electric car I’ll ask them which oil companies or coal mines they own.And the same goes for those who talk about the electricity grid not having the capacity to handle the uptake of EVs. Because neither view is based on actual evidence - well not current evidence.That's because currently batteries installed in both private homes and public community locations are creating the next big change that'll see energy prices drop.Australia is a world leader in both the home installation of solar panels (photovoltaic) and the uptake of home batteries to store the electricity the solar generates.According to the Clean Energy Council, at the close of 2025 a third of residential homes in Australia had roof-top solar.  As of 2026, according to International Energy Agency data, Australia leads the world in photovoltaic (solar) uptake per capita.The affordable price of home solar panels of about $8000 on average for a 6.6kW system (after the Federal Government rebate) has made the technology accessible and popular.  Australia also leads the world when it comes to battery installation. Global energy consultancy Rystad Energy says energy storage in the form of batteries is surging, with Australia, China, the UK, US and Germany the main drivers.Batteries small enough to power homes or large scale to power entire suburbs store energy from solar or wind. It’s these batteries that take the unpredictability out of renewable energy.The arguments of solar not being readily available at night or on cloudy days are no longer valid when the energy from the previous month has been bottled and ready for use.It’s this availability that's expected to bring energy prices down. That’s because in times of high demand fossil fuel power stations are expensive, especially gas-fired power stations which are often brought online in times of high demand. This is a major cause of high electricity prices.Storage of electricity in batteries works on the same principle as rainwater in a dam for public use or a tank attached to a house for home use.Home batteries are on the pricey side up front, with a decent-sized unit (10-15kWh) costing up to $16,000, but the Federal Government battery rebate can reduce that by $252 per kWh, or about $4000.Yes, that’s an initial outlay of $20,000 for solar and a battery but you won’t be at the mercy of energy providers any more because you’ll be storing whatever you don’t use. If you’re running an electric car and have a wall unit installed you’re laughing.Not everybody can afford that outlay and many houses aren’t new enough to support larger batteries. The good news is massive public batteries are being introduced. They’ll store electricity from renewable sources and supply it to households.It’ll have to be supported by the old ways too - coal and gas-fire power stations - but change doesn’t happen overnight.The cost of construction of a large-scale battery storage station is now equal to that of building a gas-fired plant. This is really important and will help motivate the shift for an industry that’s resistant to change.A report this week by Japan’s Nikkei Asia quoted data showing battery energy storage stations in China cost A$111 per megawatt hour in 2025, a drop of 27 per cent compared to 2024. That cost is almost equal to the A$110 per megawatt from a coal-fired plant. The key to cost-effective renewable generation and supply of electricity in a way that meets the growing demand of our lives with all our home technology and increasing uptake of electric cars is batteries.Battery tech is now advancing at a rapid pace and that development is led by countries like Australia and China. And this will mean a reduction of consumer energy prices because the cost of its generation is coming down.The final piece of the puzzle are electric vehicles which also operate as mobile power stations. The vehicle-to-load (V2L) function is becoming more common.V2L is offered on a number of models such as the Volkswagen ID.5, Kia EV3, Hyundai Ioniq 5, MG S5, Geely EX5 and BYD Sealion 7, and allows owners to store power in the car or use the electricity in the car’s battery to run appliances. It’ll be a long time before coal and gas is phased out and it will play a backup role for the new system for many years (or decades) ahead, but it’s nice to know that it now looks like our energy will be cleaner and cheaper. 

Volkswagen has done something unusual and added a new model name to its line-up. Called the Volkswagen Tayron, it’s the spiritual successor to VV’s Tiguan Allspace with three rows of seas in a relatively standard mid-size package.For a three-row German SUV, the Tayron seems like good value. At $60,390, before on-road costs, its relative premium feel and decent list of features are good showroom fodder for the new VW model.It sits relatively middle of the pack for the Tayron, the 110TSI Life is less powerful and lacks some features, but the eHybrid plug-ins and more powerful 195TSI R-Line can be as much as $15,000 more expensive.Take a look at the Toyota Kluger or Hyundai Santa Fe if you’re considering a more established, proven rival.Back to the Tayron 150TSI Elegance, which like much of the range has VW’s '4Motion' all-wheel drive system which can be reassuring in bad weather.As the name suggests, its power output of 150kW comes from a 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol, four-cylinder engine, as does 320Nm of torque, which VW claims results in a 0-100km/h time of 7.4 seconds.Power and torque is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a drivetrain layout only the ‘150’ variants in the Tayron line-up have.Volkswagen says the Tayron, which needs its 58-litre fuel tank filled with 95RON minimum, drinks 7.7L/100km. That’s decent for a non-hybrid SUV capable of hauling a family around, but it’s a fair bit thirstier than rivals like the Kluger or Santa Fe (both 5.6L/100km). In terms of creature comforts, the Elegance comes with a set of 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome trim outside and wood accent inside, tinted privacy glass, a 10.25-inch driver display and 12.9-inch multimedia touchscreen, three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated outboard seats in the second row, auto LED headlights with cornering lighting and interior coloured mood lighting.The Tayron 150 TSI Elegance can also be had with a 'Sound and Vision Pack' for $4200 that upgrades the multimedia touchscreen to a larger 15-inch version while also adding a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display and matrix LED lights with dynamic lighting.While the list of features is healthy, the interior doesn’t feel extravagant, instead keeping the layout relatively simple and, likely to the disappointment of some, hiding much of the car’s functionality in the touchscreen.There is, mercifully, a constant menu bar for the key climate controls, but the only physical control in the Tayron’s central stack is the trio of the engine start button, electric handbrake switch, and the dial for either volume or drive mode, two settings that change with a push.Having to go through the screen is usually a bit of a pain when you’re on the move, but VW’s system is decently simple, even allowing you to swipe down and easily access important functions while using phone mirroring - Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both wireless by the way.Its interior is otherwise well considered, though the driving position feels a little high to me, but the seat itself is comfortable.The second row can also be moved and adjusted for better comfort or space, depending on how kind you want to be to any third-row occupants, while the third row has enough space for an average adult to sit in comfortably, likely for a bit longer than you’d expect.Under the boot floor - where there’s either 345 litres, 850L, or 1905L depending on whether there’s one, two or three rows of seats up - the Tayron also has a space-saver spare wheel which is becoming a rarity today. Well done, VW.Like the space-savvy interior packaging, the Tayron’s on-road performance also deserves its bouquets. The three-row SUV isn’t enormous, but handles better than you might expect from something you could cart all six members of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard around in.On highways and smoother roads, it’s decently quiet and is easy to settle into a nice rhythm with, while on twisty roads only particularly rough surfaces will unsettle it.Surefootedness comes with the very slight trade-off in terms of suspension softness, but it isn’t uncomfortable and doesn’t let big bumps in the road upset the cabin ambience much.The engine could be slightly more powerful for some situations, overtaking for example, but it’s about right for most day-to-day driving and it’s probably not worth spending too much more on a more powerful variant unless a hybrid’s efficiency appeals.On test, the Tayron returned a 7.9L/100km consumption figure, but given a fair chunk of that was dynamic testing, Volkswagen’s claimed number is probably a bit conservative and it wouldn’t be surprising if frugal owners managed to beat it.The transmission, despite still having some minor dual-clutch fumbles at low speeds, is good at keeping the engine where it needs to be in the rev-range and there are paddles to make that even smoother for dynamic driving.A maximum five-star ANCAP rating accompanies the Tayron, as well as nine airbags and a decent suite of safety kit that doesn’t interfere with your driving, a welcome change from many new cars.VW’s five-year warranty is getting on the shorter side as many brands extend theirs, but it’s not unusual for a Euro brand. 

Why do things grow on us? You know, when you don’t really like something but after a while you begin to appreciate it more. What is this phenomenon? Because it’s happening to me after two months of living with the Volkswagen ID.5. This car has me feeling conflicted.In my last instalment I testified that the ID.5 wasn’t pretty to look at and while I still don’t disagree with that first impression, the unique styling is growing on me. Having driven so many 'samey' electric SUVs I’m starting to think it is quite brave of Volkswagen to not just make another one that also looks like a bar of soap.Look at the ID.5’s side profile (see images) - it’s almost cartoon-like with its bulbous shapes. There are also small tocuhes of design flare I really like from the way the paint colour scoops into the black bumper and the white VW badge on the bonnet.The cabin styling is growing on me. I like the sculpted door trims and woven headlining but I’m also noticing the hard plastics and a colour scheme that feels a bit dull now. There are also cabin design elements that I didn’t really take in at first but after two months I find them unappealing. Really unappealing. The fold-down armrests on the front seats, for example - they look as though they’re from office chairs, so out of place and unstylish (see images).The instrument cluster is another example - it’s quite small and toy-like - and the lack of head up display is perplexing.From the start, I had my doubts about the practicality of the ID.5, especially from a family car perspective. That feeling has solidified after living with it daily with my family of four. The interior space just isn’t packaged as well as it could be.Overly large and thick front seats eat into rear legroom, and the coupe-like roofline limits headroom, combining to limit space for adults and make getting our child car seat in a squeeze.The rear doors don't offer the biggest aperture, either (see images).Storage is also an issue with a thin centre console area which lacks functionality along with cupholders that feel far from people but too close to controls.An opportunity for good storage is also missed under that floating centre console with no stowage area (see images).Topping off this bad run are the haptic controls which have been frustrating me. The climate controls are haptic and require constant swiping and pressing to work effectively.The door handles have a similar haptic feel and aren’t pleasant or easy to use.Finally the driver's master window switches have one set of controls and require you to toggle between front and back. I’m constantly having to look down at the switches to see if I’m about to put my widow down or the one behind me.My first impression of the way the ID.5 drives was a good one - comfortable, planted brisk accleration - and I still feel that way. However, I was also a passenger for some trips this month and I'd forgotten how electric cars can induce car sickness due to their sudden acceleration and one-pedal braking. I also found as a passenger the ID.5’s suspension is quite firm and body control can be a bit busy too.This month we covered only 547km and used quite a lot of energy doing so - 22.0kWh/100km. I have to say I’m not using the strong setting on regenerative braking as much now and the climate control has been getting a workout as we’ve headed into winter.Oh, and finally, the visibility out of the rear window is obstructed by the coupe roofline and headrests (see images).So, that’s it for another month. I’m still impressed by the quality feel and the comfort of the cabin and the quirky styling but there are practicality issue galore.Acquired: March 2026Distance travelled this month: 547kmOdometer: 2395kmAverage energy consumption this month: 22.0kWh/100km

New city cars aren't over yet, as the latest version of Volkswagen's nine-year-old Polo proves. Tested in mid-range 85TSI CityLife guise, the German alternative to the Suzuki Swift, Mazda2 and MG3 has evolved into a roomy, comfy and practical hatch. Great economy and driving dynamics are further bonuses. But there are issues, prompting us to ask if the VW is good value.

Volkswagen will launch a number of new electrified commercial vehicles in Australia later this year and in early 2027.Headlining these is the addition of an ID. Buzz Pro all-wheel drive trim, complementing the existing GTX flagship all-wheel drive trim. To date the ID. Buzz Pro has only been offered with a single, rear-mounted electric motor.There is also an all-wheel drive version of the ID.Buzz Cargo, as well as a long-wheelbase body style, coming to complement the existing rear-wheel drive trim.Both of these will form part of a model year 2027 (MY27) update for the ID.Buzz and ID.Buzz Cargo. Volkswagen hasn’t fully disclosed what else will be changing or added with this update just yet.Volkswagen is planning to launch a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Multivan people-mover in the first quarter of 2027. It’s understood this will come with all-wheel drive.This will be complemented by an Australian launch of the Caddy PHEV.Beyond the launch of these electrified products, the next launch for Volkswagen’s commercial vehicle division is the Amarok W600, which has been fettled by Australian engineering and manufacturing firm, Walkinshaw.The German carmaker will roll out its MY26 update for the Amarok, which axes the 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, and the addition of a new Amarok Style with the 2.3-litre turbo-petrol engine and the special edition Amarok Dark Label.Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia Product Manager Michael Cenci told CarsGuide the entry-level Amarok Core will pick up the updated 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine for MY26, swapping out the wet belt for a timing chain.This mirrors what the related Ford Ranger received for its MY26 update.Beyond the updated engine, the Amarok Core will also receive a 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the six-speed automatic.At this stage it’s unclear what other changes will occur with this MY26 update for the Amarok. Volkswagen hasn’t published pricing yet.

Some of Australia’s most famous car brands are starting to come under significant sales pressure as Chinese brands win over local customers.According to the latest sales data that covers until the end of May, the biggest movers up the sales charts are the Chinese brands. BYD is up 120 per cent, Chery is up 84 per cent, GWM is up 23 per cent and Geely is up a remarkable 629 per cent.But given the Australian market typically remains at the 1.1-1.2 million mark in any given year, for those brands to experience sales growth, other car makers are taking a hit. And the brands that have suffered noticeable sales declines so far in 2026 are some of the biggest names.Nissan - down 32.8%The Japanese brand has slipped outside the top 10 sellers and it’s hard to pinpoint a particular reason. Nissan is down across its entire line-up, with even its stalwart X-Trail taking a 15.3 per cent sales hit in the first five months of the year.It certainly hasn’t helped that the company has dropped once-popular models, the Juke and Pathfinder, but both were already struggling to find an audience.The arrival of the new Navara may help to pick things up in the second half of the year, while the long-anticipated new-generation Patrol cannot come soon enough. The brand is also pinning a bounce back on a range of new hybrid ‘e-Power’ models due in the near-future to revitalise its line-up. Mitsubishi - down 26.4%In many respects this is an unsurprising result given Mitsubishi culled much of its line-up in 2025, dropping the Pajero Sport and Eclipse Cross, while also changing over to a new-generation ASX.The problem is that aside from the Triton ute, every other model in the current range is in sales decline so far this year. The ASX was the brand’s key model for years, offering an affordable small SUV option to many buyers. But the new, Renault-based ASX is simply failing to have the same results, likely because affordable, small SUVs are a key area of success for the Chinese brands.Mitsubishi has sold just 695 ASX in the first five months of the year, while BYD has sold 2919 Atto 2, Jaecoo has moved 4017 J5 and Chery has found 11,309 buyers - so it’s clear what has hurt the Japanese brands sales.The good news for Mitsubishi is that one of its most beloved models is making a return. An all-new Pajero is set to go on sale by the end of the year and could be a much-needed boost for the brand.Subaru - down 22.1%It was always going to be a tricky period for Subaru, with its two most popular models (Forester and Outback) being replaced within a 12 month period. However, the Forester has been on sale for nearly a year, so the 8.4 per cent sales decline in 2026 is concerning, while the Outback has been met with mixed reviews for its radically different styling.While there is no quantifiable evidence that Subaru is losing buyers to the Chinese brands, looking at the Forester’s mid-size SUV segment it’s clear that Australian buyers have been won over by what the newer brands are offering. The Forester sits behind the BYD Sealion 7 and GWM Haval H6, while the Chery Tiggo Pro 7 and Geely EX5 are closing in. Add to that the arrival of a new Toyota RAV4 and the continued popularity of the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage and it makes for a tough challenge for the Forester.Outback sales are off to a relatively slow start, despite the introduction of the more rugged Wilderness variant, but the competition in the large SUV segment is not easy either, with a diverse group that includes the Toyota Prado, Hyundai Santa Fe and BYD Sealion 8.Subaru will be hoping its new all-electric Uncharted and Trailseeker can make an impact and capitalise on the current demand for EVs, while there is a chance both Forester and Outback sales could pick-up in the second half of the year.Suzuki - down 22.0%The key problem for Suzuki is its legacy is also built on offering affordable small models, so the arrival of so many Chinese brands offering similar (or better) products for similar (or less) money has made life hard for the brand.Sales are down across the board, with even its stalwart Jimny taking a 12 per cent hit in the first five months of the year. The arrival of the new Fronx has helped add new sales, but with so much decline it hasn’t helped the brand’s ultimate sales numbers.Suzuki is hoping that the Jimny Rhino, a new special edition of its beloved compact off-roader can help boost interest. But it will need more than that to reverse its current sales situation, which will be difficult as the competition is only going to get more intense.Volkswagen - down 17.0%It has been a mixed performance for the German brand so far in 2026. Overall sales are down and there have been big drops for some key models, but there has also been some important sales growth.The bad news is the Amarok ute has dropped more than 33 per cent, while its core SUV line-up has also been hit, with the T-Roc down 55.9 per cent, the T-Cross down 49 per cent and the Tiguan down 13 per cent.The good news is the brand is getting some traction with its electric offerings and its updated commercial vehicle line-up. Sales of the ID.4 are up over 455 per cent (only 171 sales behind the Tiguan), the ID.5 is also more popular as is the ID.Buzz van. The new Crafter (up 277%), new Transporter (up 78.1%) and the ID.Buzz Cargo (up 33.7%) are all enjoying a successful start to the year.But VW will need to get the Tiguan and Tayron really firing in the second half of the year - which is possible with the arrival of new hybrid options) if they don’t want to finish in its current position.

Audi RS5: Ready to enter the German ‘Big Three’ performance octagon with the BMW M4 and Mercedes-AMG C63S, the new Audi RS5, offered as a sedan and ‘Avant’ wagon, is a plug-in hybrid combining a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with a powerful single electric motor for outputs of 470kW/825Nm. Pricing is already confirmed from $179,900, before on-road costs. Read moreBentley Bentayga Speed: Swapping out the British brand’s epic (but emissions constrained) 6.0L W12 for a fearsome 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 has made this luxurious SUV even faster and louder. How about 478kW/850Nm and $525,000, before on-road costs, when it arrives here in the next couple of months?Read moreBMW iX3: Arriving in early July, BMW’s much-anticipated 'Neue Klasse' iX3 is an ultra-modern mid-size five-door SUV with a pure-electric powertrain initially launching with one model, the 345kW/645Nm 50 xDrive (109,900, before on-road costs). The 235kW/500Nm iX3 40 ($89,900, BOC), which slips under the Luxury Car Tax threshold, will follow in Q4.  Read moreBMW M2 xDrive: New compact muscle coupe variant picks up all-wheel drive to put the 353kW/600Nm produced by its 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline six-cylinder on the ground. Zero to 100km/h in 3.7sec with cost-of-entry at $172,900, before on-road costs when it arrives in Q4.Read moreBYD Atto 3 Evo: Prior to the all-new next-gen Atto 3 likely hitting Aussie showrooms sometime in 2027, the Evo version of the current model gives it rear-wheel drive. There’s also an all-wheel-drive flagship with 330kW available. Likely local touchdown in Q3.Read moreChery KP31: And you thought there wasn’t room for another ute in the Aussie market. The subject of a local naming contest (Orca is looking likely, as it tops BYD Shark) the Chery ‘KP31’ is scheduled for a Q4 launch, featuring a ladder chassis and a segment-first 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel and electric motor hybrid powertrain. A petrol-electric hybrid will arrive in 2027.Read moreCupra VZ5: Fire-breathing mid-size SUV variant powered by an Audi RS3-sourced 2.5-litre turbo-petrol five-cylinder engine sending 287kW/480Nm to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission. Zero to 100km/h comes up in 4.2 seconds – 0.7 seconds quicker than the 228kW VZx, making it one of the fastest combustion-powered SUVs out there. Read moreDeepal S05: The Deepal S05 small-medium SUV joins the S07 mid-size SUV, likely offered in range-extender hybrid and/or pure-electric form. ADR compliance is locked in and pre-orders are open on the brand’s Aussie website.Read moreFerrari 849 Testarossa: Okay, the shopping list - milk, bread, eggs and a $932,648 Ferrari 849 Testarossa. Not for everyone, then. But what a car! Zero to 100km/h in 2.3sec courtesy of a twin-turbo V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain sending 611kW/842Nm to all four wheels. Coupe in Q4, with the roofless Spider arring in early ‘27.  Read moreGeely EX2: Set to arrive in the third quarter, this budget-focused electric compact SUV could start under $30K, before on-road costs. It has a single motor driving the rear wheels and two battery sizes are offered in China, providing 310km or 410km of range, respectively. Read moreGenesis GV60 Magma: Part of the upcoming next-gen GV60 line-up, the Magma is a performance-focused pure-electric powerhouse SUV riding on the same ‘E-GMP’ platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Dual electric motors for 478kW/790Nm, 0-200km/h in 10.9sec and maximum velocity of 264km/h. Arrives in July.Read moreGWM Wey G9: The Wey G9 (name yet to be confirmed for Australia) is a luxury plug-in hybrid people mover scheduled for Q4 with the V9X PHEV SUV spilling over into 2027. Its chunky 44.2 kWh battery provides a claimed pure-electric driving range of up to 170 km with a combined range of more than 1000km. Read moreHonda Super One: Super by name, super by nature, this pure-electric ‘kei’ car is guaranteed to put a smile on your face with a likely Aussie starting price around $35,000. A front-mounted electric motor produces 70kW/162Nm and Honda claims up to 274km of range.  Read moreHyundai Palisade XRT Pro: A tough looking Toyota LandCruiser rival with twin, chassis-mounted tow hooks as well as more ground clearance for useful approach, departure and breakover angles. Add a rear electronic limited-slip differential for better off-road capability as well as downhill brake control and new terrain modes for mud, sand and snow. Read moreIsuzu D-Max EV: One of the most popular utes in the county could get a pure-electric option powered by front- and rear-mounted electric motors, producing 140kW, with front motor torque at 108Nm and rear motor torque at 217Nm for a maximum 325Nm and full-time 4WD. A 67kWh battery offers a driving range of 263km (WLTP). No launch confirmation yet, but Isuzu Ute Australia says “it will continue to monitor local needs and evaluate the reception of BEVs”. Read moreJeep Compass: Potentially a Q4 arrival, the new Compass rides on the same ‘STLA Medium’ platform as Stellantis stablemates such as the Peugeot E-3008 and E-5008. It will join the smaller Avenger in Jeep’s electrified line-up. There should be a choice of 106kW 48V eHybrid and 145kW plug-in hybrid powertrains, both likely based on the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine carried over from the current-generation. Read moreKGM Musso Q300: Dual-cab only, powered by a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 150kW/441Nm mated to a six-speed torque-converter auto transmission with 4WD and a locking rear differential. Coil- or leaf-spring rear suspension options with a payload of 500kg for the former and 700kg for the latter. Features a 12.3-inch digital dash and matching multimedia touchscreen.   Read moreKia Seltos: Coming in Q4, We’re expecting a front-wheel drive version with outputs to be approximately 113kW/265Nm, plus an all-wheel drive with 131kW, though its rear wheels will be powered by an electric motor and not mechanically connected to the front wheels. The all-new Seltos should start around $30K, before on-road costs. A specific Australian suspension tune is already in the works.  Read moreLeapmotor B05: Lobbing in Q4, the Leapmotor B05 is a five-door, electric, rear-wheel drive, hot-ish hatch with 180kW/320Nm in the flagship Ultra variant. A choice of 56.2kWh or 67.1kWh battery, delivers a range of 500km or 600km (CLTC) and we’d be shocked if it wasn't among the cheapest warmed-over hatch offerings in the local market.   Read moreLexus ES: Electric versions of the striking all-new Lexus ES have been approved for Australian sale, the dual-motor, all-wheel drive ES500e flagship producing 252kW. The ES350e is powered by a single front-mounted electric motor delivering 170kW. However, the brand has confirmed hybrid powertrains will eventually be offered locally.  Read moreMazda CX-6e: Set to challenge the Tesla Model Y on price, the Mazda CX-6e is likely to land with a starting price around $54K. A 78kWh battery delivers a 450km (WLTP) range, the rear-mounted 190kW/290Nm electric motor drives the rear wheels and 0-100km/h comes up in 7.9sec. Its 195kW DC charging capacity is good for a 10-80 per cent top-up in under 25 minutes.Read moreMercedes-Benz GLB: Launch line-up of the pure-electric small SUV will be single-motor rear-wheel drive (200kW/335Nm) GLB250+ or dual-motor all-wheel drive (260kW/515Nm) GLB350. Its 800-volt architecture allows an ultra-rapid DC charging rate of up to 320kW. Three hybrid powertrains will be added later in front- or all-wheel drive all using a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 48-volt assistance. Read moreMG QS PHEV: Launched in plug-in hybrid form in the UK with an Aussie introduction likely this year. Plug-in hybrid uses a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor for around 220kW combined. A 24.7kWh battery pack grants it a WLTP-certified electric range of 100km.Read moreMitsubishi Pajero: One of the year’s most significant arrivals comes with the return of the Mitsubishi Pajero, with sights set on the upcoming Y63 Nissan Patrol and current Toyota LandCruiser 300. Most likely powertrain is an updated version of the 2.4-litre turbo-diesel powering the current Triton range (150kW/470Nm). Looking like a Q4 launch.Read moreNissan Patrol: Nissan Australia has confirmed orders for the new ‘Y63’ Patrol will “open in coming months” with vehicles on the ground at the end of the year or very early next. Its 3.5-litre V6 turbo-petrol engine is derived from GT-R’s and produces 317kW/700Nm, dwarfing the 298kW/560Nm outputs of the soon-to-be-defunct V8 of the Y62 Patrol. Read moreOmoda 4: New entry-level model for the brand with edgy, angular looks and a choice of internal-combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure-electric power in the domestic Chinese market. Riding on Chery’s ‘T1X’ platform, the Omoda 4 is a likely Toyota Corolla Cross competitor.Read morePolestar 5: Headed our way in Q3, the 5.1m long ultra-slippery (Cd 0.24) Polestar 5 offers the performance, comfort and touring ability of the Porsche Taycan and its Audi e-tron GT sibling at an appreciably lower price. Two versions coming, both powered by dual motors - the Dual Motor (550kW/812Nm) at $171,100 and the Performance (650kW/1015Nm) at $193,100 (both before on-road costs).Read morePorsche Cayenne Electric: Dropping in Q3, as the name implies, this is a pure-electric beast with even the entry-grade (of three) Cayenne Electric ($167,800, before on-road costs) featuring dual motors, all-wheel drive and producing 325kW. The flagship Turbo accelerates from 0-100km/h in hypercar-equalling 2.5sec thanks to its stonking 850kW/1500Nm outputs.  Read moreRenault Symbioz: On course for a July touchdown, the Symbioz is a Hyundai Kona and Toyota Corolla Cross rival with an entry-level mild-hybrid 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine powertrain producing 104kW/245Nm. A 1.8L full-hybrid boosts that to 116kW/265Nm. Pricing starts from $36,990. Read moreSmart #5: It’s been a long time in the offing but the Smart #5 plug-in hybrid SUV is a likely Aussie arrival in the second half of the year. It offers up to 252km of pure-electric range and up to 320kW of total power from its 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, four-cylinder engine and three-speed hybrid transaxle motor powertrain. Claimed fuel economy is as low as 4.4L/100km (when its battery is depleted). Read moreToyota RAV4 PHEV: Another significant new entry. FWD variants of the RAV4 PHEV will be powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and front-mounted electric motor, producing 201kW. AWD variants add a rear-mounted motor, increasing power to 227kW. Pricing will start from $58,840, before on-road costs, making it roughly $15K more expensive than the car's base standard hybrid variant ($45,990).  Read moreVolkswagen T-Roc: Sleeker looking and bigger, with a more premium vibe, VW’s small SUV also features new powertrains. A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol mild-hybrid in two states of tune (85kW and 110kW) for FWD versions and a more powerful 2.0L mild-hybrid arriving later. A T-Roc R is confirmed to follow, too.  Read moreXPeng G9: As the legal cage fight between previous XPeng importer True EV and the XPeng factory continues, the priority is getting G6s back into showrooms. But the luxury G9 electric SUV is a possible addition. Rear- or all-wheel drive with two battery options, a driving range of up to 680km and loads of included features for an estimated starting price in the region of $70K.Read moreZeekr 8X: Upper mid-sized, plug-in hybrid luxury SUV to sit above the mid-size fully electric 7X and below the flagship three-row 9X. Pairs a 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol, four-cylinder engine (205kW/410Nm) with dual electric motors for a combined 660kW/935Nm and a 0-100km/h sprint in 3.7 seconds. A 55kWh or 70kWh battery pack with a 900-volt architecture allows ultra-fast charging and either a 320km or 410km EV driving range. Probable starting price in the $80K band.Read moreZeekr 9X: Ultra-luxury, upper-large, three-row SUV offering a dual- or tri-motor plug-in hybrid system, backed by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine and a massive battery pack. The result is either 660kW/935Nm of combined power for the two lower variants, or 1030kW/1410Nm for the top-spec car, as well as between 300 and 380km of fully electric driving range. Standard equipment and features are suitably extensive. Expect a starting price just over $100K.Read more

For decades Volkswagen Golf has been the generic term for high-quality small hatchback. And as much as the high-riding SUV configuration has become the new car default for compact car buyers this VW still attracts devoted fans. They say quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten but does this modern classic's value equation stack up?

Volkswagen is readying the launch of its locally fettled Amarok W600 flagship performance ute and the company has said more versions could come if it’s successful.One particular version that’s under study is an off-road version to compete against the Ford Ranger Raptor, Isuzu D-Max Blade, Nissan Navara Warrior and Mitsubishi Triton Raider.“I think we’ve been pretty clear … we’ll assess the opportunity as it comes to us right now,” said Volkswagen Group Australia Director of Commercial Vehicles, Nathan Johnson to CarsGuide.“The decision was made to be straightforward, keep it simple and focus on something that has higher demand and better opportunity for us.“What’s next? We have multiple discussions open with Walkinshaw across a range of different products, accessories niche opportunities with fleet.“What we found working with Walkinshaw is they have the ability to not only scale and production capacity, but also projects as well.“Having a partnership like that is pretty special in this market because it’s not a market that is known for its manufacturing at the moment and we’re keen to continue to support Australian manufacturers and we’ll continue to work with Walkinshaw moving forward on opportunities.”Before Volkswagen and Walkinshaw had landed on the on-road-oriented Amarok W600, the companies were initially discussing an off-road version of the ute.Proposed design sketches had already been laid up but ultimately the companies pivoted to a different niche, which Volkswagen claims is more in line with what an Amarok ute customer desires.At this stage it’s unclear when or if Volkswagen will actually add another variant to its W-Series line-up in current-generation guise, but it did offer a few in previous-generation guise, including on- and off-road-oriented versions.The Amarok W600 has been in development now for a number of years and will launch in Australia this August.Highlight changes include 20x10-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyres, a Koni-sourced suspension upgrade with a bespoke tune, wider wheel arches, a side-exit exhaust and electric side steps.Power still comes from a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine producing 184kW and 600Nm. It’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission with drive sent through a full-time four-wheel drive system.At this stage Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed how much the Amarok W600 will cost. As it currently stands, the Aventura trim caps out at $82,990 before on-road costs.

We’ve been waiting a few years for Volkswagen and Walkinshaw to fully reveal its latest creation and now it won’t be long until it's on public roads.Following the success of the original Volkswagen Amarok W-Series of flagship utes, there has been a lot of hype surrounding what the German carmaker is planning for its current-generation model which shares its platform with the Ford Ranger.Dubbed the Amarok W600, Volkswagen revealed some initial details of this locally fettled ute late last year, but ahead of its launch in August, CarsGuide was given the opportunity to test out the ute at Holden’s former proving ground at Lang Lang, Victoria.Volkswagen and Walkinshaw claim the Amarok W600 is the ‘ultimate driver’s ute’ and it has been modelled as a more street-focused, performance model, like the previous Amarok W580S. This contrasts against key rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor, Isuzu D-Max Blade, Mitsubishi Triton Raider and Nissan Navara Warrior which are off-road-focused.Highlight changes include new 20-inch alloy wheels that are 10 inches wide and wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyres, a dual side-exit exhaust system, a bespoke Koni suspension set-up with a Walkinshaw tune and the fitment of a 22mm rear anti-roll bar.Other niceties include electric side steps, Walkinshaw embroidering on the leather-upholstered seats and aluminium sport pedal covers.The Amarok W600 has a tough and menacing stance. There are wider wheel arches to cover the fatter wheels, plus a unique front fascia with a W motif in the grille and a light bar connecting the headlights.One thing we don’t know yet is how much the tough looks and all of these performance additions will add to the price tag. For context, the current flagship Amarok Aventura caps out at $82,990, before on-road costs.The previous Amarok W580S was $7500 more than the Aventura at the time and if this price difference is carried over this could see the Amarok W600 be priced over $90,000.This is notable as the Ford Ranger Raptor is currently priced from $90,690, before on-road costs.Wherever VW lands will be interesting as the Amarok W600 has an unchanged 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine that’s available on other trim levels, as well as in the Ford Ranger.It produces 184kW and 600Nm which is 16kW less and 20Nm more than the previous W580S which also had a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel but it was sourced in-house.Also unchanged are the braked towing and load-carrying capacities. Volkswagen has confirmed the Amarok W600 retains a 3500kg braked towing capacity and will have a payload capacity close to 1000kg.Exact figures, including the kerb weight, haven’t been confirmed yet.Something Volkswagen has locked in though is a standard-fit 17-inch steel spare wheel even though Walkinshaw ensured there is enough space to fit a full 20x10-inch alloy. This means you’ll likely need to travel at reduced speeds when it’s fitted. That’s not ideal for this type of vehicle.We had the opportunity to sample the Amarok W600 back-to-back with the regular Amarok TDI600 Style across a series of scenarios at Lang Lang and the differences are pronounced.One of the most obvious changes behind the wheel is the tyres which offer fantastic grip. They were put to the test on a rather rainy day and held up very well.Also impressive is the improved braking performance. It’s noticeably better than the regular Amarok and goes to show how much braking can change with different tyres as the braking system itself hasn’t been altered.Additionally another major area of change with the Amarok W600 is how it rides and handles. The Koni-sourced suspension and damper package helps make this ute feel a lot more planted during hard acceleration and braking.Plus, the rear anti-roll bar helps keep the ute flatter through the bends. As a result it's more confidence-inspiring to drive spiritedly. You can focus more on the driving ahead than what the ute is doing.My only criticism of the package is that you can feel more pimply bumps and road imperfections in the Amarok W600 compared to the regular Amarok. It’s unclear if this is the suspension, larger wheels or a combination of both.Plus it’s worth noting that Volkswagen and Amarok may still fine tune the suspension in this ute ahead of its launch in August.