Motor Torque

Further on Mazda’s long standing CX-5 SUV but still highly competitive with tenmodels in a mix of petrol and diesel and front or all-wheel drive, I’m driving thesecond tier 2.5-litre six-speed automatic CX-5 Maxx Sport front wheel drive at$43,184 drive-away with optional metallic paint. I covered nearly 900km with a lotof highway cruising at the open road limit. The naturally aspirated four-cylinderwith 140kW and 252Nm of torque did a workmanlike job but what surprised wasthe economy, averaging 7.4L/100km on 91 grade petrol with four passengers.This is simply a great allrounder, well shod 17-inch alloy wheels provide a verycomfortable ride while the electric power assistance offers good feel whilstparking and on the run. Comfort and convenience items include dual zone climatecontrol, satellite navigation, a head-up instrument display, well bolstered clothseats, a rear-view camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus a good level ofactive safety elements. Thankfully the warning elements are not intrusive likemany of the new breed of Chinese SUV’s. Disappointments – no wireless phonecharger and the lack of a power rear door. However, the Mazda CX-5 is still upthere as one of our best mid-size SUV’s.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving the popular Mazda CX-5 SUV today, Mazda’s top seller, it’s been around along time in ten models, a mix of petrol and diesel and front or all-wheel drive. Nohybrid but I’m told its coming. I drove the second tier 2.5-litre six-speed automaticCX-5 Maxx Sport front wheel drive - $43,184 drive-away, which included optionalSoul Red Chrystal Metallic paint at $795. A colour that has in many ways becomea trademark of Mazda. The CX-5 a good looker, still our fourth best-sellingmedium SUV, behind Toyota’s RAV4 and getting some strong competition thesedays from Kia’s Sportage and Hyundai’s Tuscon. I did nearly 900km in urban andcountry driving and it really surprised - well sorted, extremely comfortable forfour adults – the Maxx Sport well specified apart from the lack of wireless phonecharging and a power rear door. But it has dual zone air-conditioning with rearoutlets, a welcome head up display, a rather small 8-inch display screen on thedash but just so safe to use with a rotary dialer to let you scroll through a menu –so much safer than many of the new Chinese SUV’s with their large touchscreensand no active buttons. Warranty 5-years/unlimited km.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Arriving this month from Spanish brand Cupra – a new mid-size SUV inthree variants from $58,490 drive-away. Developed alongside the thirdgeneration Audio Q3, the Cupra Terramar is a replacement for the ageingAteca and shares many body components with the new Audi. The entryCupra Terramar S features a 1.5-liltre turbo petrol mild hybrid powertraintogether with front wheel drive. Equipment levels are high with 18-inchalloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, power tailgate, tri-zone climate control,power heated front seats, wireless phone projection, and a 10.25-inchdigital instrument cluster and a 15-inch infotainment screen. Two highergrade models, the V and VZ gain a larger 2.0-litre turbo engine and all-wheel-drive, the flagship VZ also gaining an adaptive suspension. A plug-in Cupra Terramar VZ is also programmed to arrive early next year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With SUVs now representing over 60 per cent of new vehicle sales the choice for this favored body style just gets wider – Jaecoo has added a larger J8 five-seat SUV onto the local market priced from $49,990 drive- away. Joining the smaller J7 the J8 according to Jaecoo has “technologies typically reserved for premium vehicles”. With a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine the J8 arrives in front and all-wheel-drive configuration driving through an eight-speed torque convertor automatic. Sitting on 20-inch alloy wheels it features LED headlights, synthetic leather trim, dual 12.3-inch instrumentation and infotainment screens, Apple CarPlay and Android auto connectivity and 14 speaker surround sound. Jaecoo has also introduced an industry first with a future price program – a buy back scheme which details the amount customers will receive for their vehicle in the years ahead irrespective of how it is financed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving the latest Toyota Camry sedan, the mid-range Ascent Sport in thelatest three model range at $42,990 plus on-road costs – now with Toyota’sfifth generation hybrid system in a refreshed body with a revamped interiorand centre console and a nice choice of fabrics that give it more of classyfeel. As I said earlier, this latest Camry has more of a feel of Toyota’s luxurybrand Lexus. Sedan’s may not be on your radar but for those that like asedan over an SUV the Camry Ascent Sport will not disappoint.Serviceability and reliability have always been a Camry high point – I wasrecently in a Camry hybrid taxi that had covered 440,000km still on itsoriginal engine and transmission, still on its third set of brake pads. Thelatest hybrid powertrain impressive – i managed 4.4L/100km, the onlydownside perhaps the needs for 95 octane unleaded – the hybrid systemsmooth, exceptionally quiet and responsive. Five-star safety plus a stack ofactive safety elements, a 360-degree camera and wireless phone charging.Dislikes the small 7-inch instrument display, the top line SL model gets a12.3-inch unit while the steering wheel controls could be more userfriendly. Otherwise, a very refined sedan for the money.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Toyota Camry has been around a long time - a medium sedan that justseems to get more refined with each new model – built locally from 1987 to2017, imported since and fully hybrid since late last year like the rest ofToyota’s passenger car range. The current three model Camry sedan rangeconsists of the Ascent, Ascent Sport and SL models prices starting at$39,990 plus on road costs and running to $53,990. I tested the AscentSport $42,990. And what an exceptional car this is – frankly having notdriven a Camry for some time I came away impressed with its refinement.Before I get into the performance, the build quality, styling elements anmaterial inside of this medium sized sedan felt more like Toyota’s luxurybrand Lexus. Sedans may not be in vogue, SUV’s, last month reaching 60.5per cent of total new car sales, however the Camry Ascent Sport at $42,990is outstanding value – there’s a lot of equipment for that money, the interiorclassy and roomy with a restyled dash and centre console while overallToyota’s fifth generation hybrid system is quieter, smoother, more fuelefficient in a body that now has real character.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s now only one diesel powered medium sized SUV on the marketand fortunately it will be here for a while – the 2025 Kia Sportage remainsthe last medium SUV with diesel power proving the most popularpowertrain in the Sportage SUV line-up. Diesel power currently represents36 per cent of Sportage sales growing from 30 per cent for most of lastyear. And despite the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard penalties cominginto effect on July 1 Kia suggests the diesel option will remain for sometime, the company able to offset penalties by achieving credits from itspopular EV3 and EV5 models as well as a growing number of hybrids. Thecurrent 2.0-litre turbo diesel remains popular with its 416Nm of torquegiving it a very relaxed performance - well suited to the four-wheel driveonly diesel range.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ute market just grows year on year and looks set to intensify with newplayers – Hyundai Australia the latest player to throw its hat into the ring –with newly appointed Chief Executive Don Romano confirming hiscompany cannot be competitive in Australia without one. The localcompany hopeful its parent can redesign sister company’s Kia Tasmanwith a hybrid or plug-in by hybrid powertrain to suit Hyundai’srequirements. The new local Hyundai boss adamant that the company can’tbe a viable brand here without a ute in its range. The inability to rejig theTasman could see Hyundai look to its strategic partnership with GeneralMotors to source a U.S. produced pick-up for this market. Romanoadamant that Hyundai needs something to compete with the likes of theToyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, the two top selling vehicles in the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Behind the wheel of Kia’s electric mid-size SUV, the EV5. The first Kia to be builtin China with the battery interestingly supplied by electric car giant BYD. There’sthree trim grades Air, Earth and GT-line, I’m driving the mid-grade EV5 Earth at$68,990 drive-away, a 230kW dual electric motor all-wheel-drive with a long range88.1kWh battery and a quoted range of 500km. The drive experience provedrewarding, my consumption around town running at 18.6 kWh/100km providing arange of 473km – charge time on my 11kW home charger from 10 to 100 percentjust over 8 hours or overnight. I must admit the Kia EV5 Earth SUV grew on methe more I drove it – the styling subjective, but I personally got to like it over time,the interior a highpoint, great seats, the test cars Nougat Beige interior coloursappealing in a dashboard design that is intuitive and different. Biggest gripe, theoverly active and intrusive lane keep assist, speed limit recognition and driveattention warnings and I’m surprised Kia Australia has not addressed this annoyance. Overall, though, all things considered the EV5 Earth all-wheel drive isa very rewarding electric SUV.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving Kia’s electric mid-sized EV5 SUV – similar in size to Kia’s petrolSportage, although boxier and the first Kia to be made in China for this market.Three trim grades Air, Earth, and GT- Line – I’m driving the mid-grade EV5 Earthat $68,990 drive-away, a dual motor all-wheel drive with a long-range 88.1kWhbattery providing a quoted 500km range. Features include synthetic leather seats,dual 12.3-inch interior screens,19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a powertailgate, dual zone climate control and a five-inch climate control display whichfrustratingly is partly hidden by the rim of the steering wheel. The interior roomy,very accommodating in both seat rows with excellent cargo space butdisappointingly there’s no wireless phone charging or 360-degree camera. For afamily vehicle it also lacks a front console storage box but for rear passengersprovides a pull-out storage draw under. I must admit my first visual impression ofthe Kia EV5 was not great, but it grew on me in time as did the drive experiencewith four drive modes while the charging process on my 11kW home charger waseffortless and relatively fast. Warranty seven years/unlimited km with batterywarranty seven years/150,000km, less than some rivals. Drive details next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The car market this year has been somewhat unpredictable with a numberof factors affecting various segments. What surprised last month was aresurgence in sales of the trusty Ford Mustang – a significant delay in thearrival of the latest S650 model saw pent up demand take the two-doorMustang to its best sales month in almost seven years. Who said the trustyV8 was dead in the water. 720 Mustangs were sold in May taking the year’stally to 2489, more than it sold for the entire year in 2024. Interestingly, thevolume selling GT Fastback V8 automatic at $86,990 now far moreexpensive than it was seven years ago – in mid-1918 it was $21,000 moreaffordable at $65,990. The Ford Mustang was Australia’s top-selling sportscar from 2016 to 2022, with more than 33,000 deliveries over that time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renault’s Koleos SUV has been around in much the same guise since 2016but holds the distinction of being the biggest selling Renault since thattime – a good all-rounder and selling well in recent times. A new entryEvolution grade has just been added at $34,990 plus on-road costsundercutting the previous entry Zen model which sold last year at $42,500.The new pricing pits the highly regarded Koleos against newer ChineseSUV rivals, also undercutting the likes of Honda’s CR-V, Mazda’s CX-5,Hyundai’s Tucson and Kia’s Sportage. The new Koleos Evolution ispowered by a 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine driving the front wheels througha CVT transmission. Features include leather trim, dual zone climatecontrol, LED headlights, heated front seats and a seven year/unlimitedkilometre warranty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BMW updated their entry model hatchback last December – now simplycalled the 118 this small five door hatch has a lot of presence in a faceliftedbody that’s slightly longer and taller. Now $56,500 plus on-road costs butwith more equipment and more tech savvy – slightly longer and taller, stillpowered by a 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder driving through a seven-speeddual clutch automatic. This latest entry model BMW has a nice feel about,the interior especially well sorted with supportive seats, and a well-constructed dash layout with connected digital and infotainment screens.But with BMW’s latest iDrive 9 operating system which can become tediousto use but is very comprehensive. The drive rather sporty in the BMWtradition with good driving dynamics, beautiful steering, brakes and slickgear changes with the worst feature being ride quality. I’m not sureeverybody who would buy a BMW 118 would need such a sport skewedride but it is far too harsh and spoils an otherwise quality drive. Passiveand active safety systems most comprehensive, a 360-degree camera agreat driving aid while the adaptive cruise control is very polished inoperation. There’s a lot to like in the BMW 118 but ride quality adisappointment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving BMW’s new entry model – the 118 hatchback which arrived lastDecember at $56,500 plus on-road costs. The small German five-door hatchrestyled and powered by a familiar 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine witha small lift in power and torque driving the front wheels through a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Also included a sports mode with manualshift paddles. This latest BMW 118 is 41mm longer and 25mm taller, otherdimensions remain unchanged. Internally it has slightly better rear legroomhowever like most small BMW’s it’s still on the tight side. The cabin has apremium feel with well-structured seats while the overall impression is oneof sportiness in the BMW tradition, accentuated by nice finishes and amodern dash layout. Good instrumentation with a welcome head up displayover, although the 10.7-inch touchscreen with so many options can betedious to use. While the air vents below are mounted low and look like anafterthought. BMW claim to have added significant features to the 118 – thedriver-assist systems also most comprehensive, there’s wireless phonecharging and two USB ports in each row, comprehensive 360-degreecamera views, front and rear parking sensors, parking assist and awelcome reversing assistant. Warranty five-years/unlimited km. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Porsche is the latest company to cancel plans to take much of its line-upelectric by the end of the decade. At a recent Annual General Meeting withinvestors the German sports car maker said, “it would be a significantlylonger transition phase globally, on the journey to electric mobility.” Theslower than expected transition putting pressure on the company’s bottomline. According to Porsche CEO, Dr. Oliver Blume, “the world has changed– we are experiencing a fierce storm, in challenging times we arecontinuing to develop Porsche with a precise focus.” Previouslyannouncing that most of its models would join its Macan SUV with electricpowertrains Porsche is now making major changes. But the change of planwill come at a cost, the company confirming it will cut around 3,900 jobs by2029 in order to save money in the long term.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While the Chinese car industry has enjoyed significant growth GWM’sChairman Wei Jianjun has warned the industry is in an unhealthy state dueto incessant price cuts. In an interview with Chinese publication SinaFinance the GWM Chairman suggested if it continues like this the Chineseauto industry will be seriously threatened. Not specifically referring to anyChinese car maker he warned the excessive and prolonged price warbetween rival Chinese brands, especially those selling electric vehicles,risks cutting corners on safety and reliability. Discounts have ranged upfrom Aud.$22,000. Following Mr. Wei comments shares in BYD, Leapmotor,Nio, and Geely fell by up to 9.5 percent. BYD recently announced subsidiesand incentives in China – the entry Seagull EV Hatch reduced byAud.$12,000 while Geely followed suit with similar incentives for itsChinese buyers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving Subaru’s Outback Sport Touring XT AWD – a special edition highriding wagon that sits at the top of the Outback range at $57,490 plus on-road costs. Distinguished with special Geyser Blue exterior paint and black18-inch alloy wheels, also highly equipped. Power source the traditional2.5-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder turbocharged driving all fourwheels through a continuously variable automatic. As has always been thecase with this mainstay Subaru, the drive experience most reassuring. It’snot an SUV but a high riding wagon with a go-anywhere ability and it justgets better year on year. Yes, it’s been around for a while in its currentguise and varied little over the years – just more refined and betterequipped, a firm family favourite, practical with good rear seat room andload space and importantly a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Theturbocharged engine perhaps showing its age a little in that it uses morepetrol, and it does require higher grand 95 octane petrol – I achieved11.1L/100 with mainly urban driving - but it is a permanent all-wheel driveand the tractability in the recent rain was confidence inspiring. It does havea full-size spare, peace of mind for those that venture off road. Warrantyfive-years/unlimited km.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Subaru’s Outback has been a firm family favourite for over 25 years. I’mdriving the Outback Sport Touring XT, a special edition turbochargedmodel that sits at the top of the Outback’s model range priced at $57,490plus on-road costs. The Outback best described as a high-riding wagonand the Sport Touring XT identifies with dark 18-inch alloy wheels andspecial Geyser Blue exterior paint. Inside, premium features such as Nappaleather seat inserts, power front seats, heated and ventilated seats, ninespeaker Harman Kardon sound and a power sunroof and tailgate. The 2.5-litre horizontally opposed turbo four-cylinder features 350Nm of torque andlinks to a continuously variable automatic transmission. A very well sortedinterior with large central touchscreen and nice instrumentation but a lackof buttons for aircon a disappointment. Both seat rows offer good roomand are well equipped with USB ports and aircon outlets. The SubaruOutback has varied little over the years – and why should it - it’s a practicaldesign that gets customers coming back for more – its gained moreequipment over the years and more features and more refinement – apractical family wagon with a go anywhere ability – the Sport Touring XTspecial edition offering that little bit more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s now only one diesel powered medium sized SUV on the marketand fortunately it will be here for a while – the 2025 Kia Sportage remainsthe last medium SUV with diesel power proving the most popularpowertrain in the Sportage SUV line-up. Diesel power currently represents36 per cent of Sportage sales growing from 30 per cent for most of lastyear. And despite the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard penalties cominginto effect on July 1 Kia suggests the diesel option will remain for sometime, the company able to offset penalties by achieving credits from itspopular EV3 and EV5 models as well as a growing number of hybrids. Thecurrent 2.0-litre turbo diesel remains popular with its 416Nm of torquegiving it a very relaxed performance - well suited to the four-wheel driveonly diesel range. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Korean brand name SsangYong has disappeared this month inAustralia with the local distributor now adopting the KGM branding of itsparent company. The KGM Group acquired SsangYong two years agochanging its name globally, at which time it was known here as KGMSsangYong. The naming move is significant given the arrival of newproduct – the recent KGM Torres mid-size SUV and the soon to belaunched Actyon coupe SUV in two grades, the nameplate returning after a14-year hiatus. The Actyon credited with starting the sloped roof trend thatis now so prevalent with many SUVs. Two versions of the Actyon will beavailable, the K50 at $47,990 drive-away and the K60 for another $3,000.The Torres and Actyon models join the long-standing and highly regardedMusso dual cab ute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving Jaguar’s potent F-Pace SVR 575 Ultimate Edition SUV – one of just60 as the last of the line Jaguar V8’s – Jaguar will navigate a new futurefrom January 1, all electric and reconfigured into an upper luxury range,the Jaguar leaper badge gone, a whole new beginning after 90 years whichthe company admits will lose up to 85 percent of its current customer base.The 5-litre supercharged F-Pace SVR 575 Ultimate Edition a stunning SUVand one that will become a collector’s item in time – super powerful, superluxurious and the test car I’m driving in Sorrento yellow, super special –hard to fault in performance, features, comfort, dynamics and price -$182,000 far cheaper than a Range Rover Sport P530 and far more exciting– the 5.0-litre V8 with 700Nm of torque and 8-speed automatic with steeringwheel shift paddles inspiring. A full gamut of active driver assist systems,not intrusive, although the speed limit alert can become an annoyance. Butfabulous brakes which you need when you have a 2133kg steed with 0 to100km/hour acceleration of just 4 seconds. This Jaguar F-Pace SVR 575Ultimate Edition the final act in what has been a wonderful 90 years ofJaguar grace and pace. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jaguar will cease production of its last internal combustion cars at the endof the year, becoming an electric only manufacturer, also moving furtherupmarket. Ending 90 years of the celebrated Jaguar brand as it navigates anew future. According to Jaguar’s chief creative officer Gerry McGovern“the new electric model is the result of brave, unconstrained creativethinking and unwavering determination – the foundation stone for a newfamily of Jaguars that will look unlike anything you’ve seen before.” Formany aficionados it’s a sad day, 90-years of history and heritage lost, eventhe Jaguar leaper badging will disappear with the company only expectingto retain around 10-15 percent of its existing customers. This week I’vebeen driving the Jaguar F-Pace SVR 575 Ultimate Edition SUV, in brightyellow no less, the last ever V8 from the British brand and what an engine –just 60 examples of this Ultimate Edition will be available and bound tobecome collectors’ items. Sitting on 22-inch wheels this SVR looksmenacing even before you fire its 5-litre supercharged V8 – an all-wheeldrive upper luxury SUV at $182,000, and as a limited edition and the last ofthe line, likely to retain its value well. Drive details next. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Honda has joined a growing number of major car makers changingdirection away from battery electric vehicle development in response toslowing BEV sales. At a recent briefing in Tokyo Honda’s PresidentToshihiro Mibe confirmed the company was re-evaluating its BEVdevelopment plan up to 2030 by trimming 3 trillion yen from its previouslyallocated EV budget of 10 trillion yen. It cited falling BEV sales behind themove “necessitating a re-alignment of its automotive strategy that placesmore emphasis on new generation, lower cost and more efficient hybridtechnology along with a greater focus on the North American, Japaneseand Chinese markets.” Honda targeting greater battery efficiency as well asa 50 per cent reduction in manufacturing costs, suggesting the company’snew e-HEV systems will be lighter with more parts commonality amongstmodels. Its target 2.2 million sales by 2030. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nissan Motor Corporation is making huge changes as it struggles withdisappointing financial results, slashing 11,000 jobs and closing sevenproduction facilities. New CEO Ivan Espinosa says he wants to make totalcost savings of around 500 million yen or $5.39 billion Australian dollars.Nissan has been hit by slow sales in China and the U.S., has ended talks ofa merger with Honda and replaced its Chief Executive. Sales of 3.3 millionvehicles last year were down 42 per cent compared to 2017, the companybelieved to be looking at closing production plants in South Africa, Indiaand Argentina and reducing the number of its factories in Mexico. Thecompany’s Chief Financial Officer said he has estimated the company’soperating loss in the first quarter of the current financial year at around$2.16 billion Australian dollars. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most evident in the car industry is how quickly potential buyers see thevalue in a new model. Chery’s Tiggo 4 SUV has quickly made a name foritself on value alone, simply the best value in a small SUV at present – twomodels, the Tiggo 4 Urban $23,990 drive-away and the better equippedUltimate at $26,990 drive-away – as I said earlier the equipment level on theUltimate makes for a very compelling package for a small family on a tightbudget. And its pricing is where other small SUV’s start with their entrypricing and don’t feature the Chery Tiggo 4 Ultimate models impressiveequipment list. Which includes dual-zone climate control air, a powersunroof with shade, heated front seats, wireless phone charging, front andrear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera. Only disappointment for meis the lack of a rear power door and a full-size spare wheel. Power source a1.5-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder driving the front wheels via acontinuously variable transmission. With 108kW and 210 Nm of torque itsno fire breather but a nice driver, the performance best described asadequate while fuel consumption can get a little heavy if driven hard. Imanaged 7.9L/100 around town but it does take 91 octane fuel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With cost-of-living pressures affecting new car sales a sharply priced SUV like the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro is sure to gain traction – this small Chinese SUV has been selling up a storm since its launch six months ago. Chery has thankfully already dropped the Pro from its name and revised styling including a full width LED tail-light and revised alloy wheels. Two models – the entry Chery Tiggo 4 Urban at $23,990 drive-away which now also gains front parking sensors and a six-speaker sound system in lieu of four. The better-equipped Tiggo 4 Ultimate at $26,990 drive-away further gains wireless phone charging and ambient interior lighting. Both exceptional value and quickly reflected in sales – having driven both the Tiggo 4 Ultimate is well worth the extra. Power source is a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine driving the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic. The Ultimate grade equipment impressive – LED headlights, twin 10.25-inch display screens, a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, wireless phone charging, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather trim, dual zone climate control air, a power sunroof and shade, heated front seats, five-star ANCAP safety and many active safety elements. The Chery Tiggo 4 Impressive value for $26,990 drive-away with seven years unlimited km warranty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s peak motoring body, the Australian Automobile Association hascalled on the re-elected Albanese Government for more action on roadsafety. The call comes as new figures show the nation’s road toll continuesto climb. AAA Managing Director Michael Bradley said figures show roaddeaths are up by 18.1 per cent in the five years since AustralianGovernments set a target of halving national road deaths by 2030.Following my story on the recommendations of the N.S.W ParliamentaryCommittee inquiry into e-scooters and e-bikes I note the recent death of ane-scooter rider on the South Coast – the 41-year-old rider crashed onto theroadway and sadly was hit by a car. Over the last five years 30 people havelost their lives in e-scooter accidents – many of the children’s deathsattributed to their inexperience of riding e-scooters on busy roads. I’mDavid BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I don’t always agree with Harold Scruby from the Pedestrian Council ofAustralia, but I did agree with his article in the Telegraph on Tuesday titledStates e-madness must end before we’re e-limited. Rightly taking theN.S.W. Government to task for proposing new rules and regulations for e-scooters that other states have already found unworkable – allowinganyone 16 and over to ride e-scooters on 50km/hour roads as well asshared paths is a recipe for disaster – with no training, no license, noregistration and no insurance. Harold Scruby does himself an injusticeclaiming the road toll in N.S.W is up 18 percent, its up 18 in number or 14per cent while his argument that pedestrians don’t need education is oneeyed – he should witness the number of pedestrians in the City inparticular who walk onto pedestrian crossings texting or on the phone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Further on the Zeekr X SUV – a compact Chinese electric SUV released lastOctober and like many Chinese EVs already price reduced. Two models,the rear wheel drive now $56,900 and the AWD $64,900 which I’m drivingwith dual electric motors fed by a 66kWhour battery. The performanceexhilarating - 0 to 100km/hour in just 3.8 seconds – that performance isvery polished, and the Zeekr X feels premium in all it does – from myperspective a cut above most similar priced SUV’s that I’ve driven. Thestyling sharp, distinctive and different, a body with great interior room for acompact SUV. Fit and finishes are quality. Range 400kms which aroundtown I found accurate but on the open road the brisk performance eats upthe battery much quicker – I averaged 16kW/h/100km consumption aroundtown but on a hard throttle it rose to 20kWh/100km fairly quickly. Chargingon my 11kW AC wall charger took 5 ½ hours from 20 to 80 percent ofcharge. A supremely comfortable small SUV apart from some pitch on arough surface accentuated obviously by the additional battery weight butmore than acceptable. Active safety elements however too intrusiveparticularly the driver distraction alert. Warranty underdone too at 5 years/unlimited km. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving the Zeekr X SUV – a small premium electrified SUV, a relativelynew Chinese brand released last October. Part of the Geely group that alsoowns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. Zeekr a rather unusual Chinese brandwith its global design operations based in Gothenburg Sweden. As suchthe European design influence on the Zeekr X is immediately apparent –this is a compact SUV with a premium feel in fit and finishes - theintegration of the lights into the front of car individual and distinctive – Twomodels RWD and AWD, I drove the latter at $64,900 plus on-road costs.Step inside and you’re met with exceptional quality and an ambience that’swarm, inviting and different. Seat comfort immediately noticeable, poweradjustment on both front seats – event the synthetic leather trim looksquality and authentic. The AWD comes with dual electric motors fed by a66kWh battery producing a lightning quick 0 to 100km in just 3.8 secondsHighly equipped with wireless phone charging, power heated and cooledfront seats and a panoramic glass roof. Worst feature, a large centraltouchscreen, and no operational buttons for aircon or radio. But certainly,the most impressive Chinese electric SUV I’ve driven to date. Drive detailnext. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 9 th . Peking to Paris Motor challenge got under way last Saturday, theevent covering 14,500 kilometres over 37 days across twelve countries. 80entries started at the Great Wall of China including five from Australia, withthis year’s challenge taking crews across China, Mongolia, Kazakhstan,across the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan continuing into the tough tracks ofGeorgia and Turkey, followed with a sting in the tail across Bulgaria,Romania, Hungary, Austria, Switzerland before finishing in France. A truehistoric vehicle and human endurance challenge that follows in the tracksof the original 1907 pioneers. The entry fee per vehicle to participate with acrew of two 69,000 pounds. Entries include vehicles up to 1985 – theoldest vehicle this year from Melbourne’s Alan Madan – a 14.5 litre 1917American La France, formerly a fire truck. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Toyota this week revealed its sixth generation RAV4 SUV due in the firsthalf of 2026. The hybrid only RAV 4 range will introduce Toyota’s first plug-in PHEV powertrain offering a choice of 2WD or 4WD and targeting up to100km of electric-only driving range. The current model with huge pent updemand during the pandemic has been our top-seller in recent years, alsoToyota’s top seller, the company selling more than 500,000 since its arrivalin 1994. Underpinning the new plug-in hybrid system is a 2.5-litre petrolengine combined with a new 22.7kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery thatwill provide an electric only driving range of up to 100km. Along with theplug-in options, the RAV4 will also come with Toyota’s efficient series-parallel hybrid system in AWD and 2WD configurations. both of whichproduce 143kW combined with excellent fuel economy. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving Renault’s Megane E-Tech SUV – a small French SUV with adifference, setting it apart from the look alike new breed of Chinese electriccars. At $54,990 plus on-road costs more than competitive, cheaper thanVolvo’s EX30 and in a way more charming. The styling impressive, hatchlike with large 20-inch wheels tucked into the corners. Step inside and itbreathes clever design, quality materials and individuality. With alightweight 60kWh battery feeding a single electric motor driving the frontwheels it offers a driving range of 454Km which I found accurate. Relativelylight for an electric car with a slim lightweight battery under the floor Ifound the energy consumption excellent at 14.1 kWh/100km. Electric carstend to ride harder` due to battery weight – not so for the Megane E-Tech,extremely comfortable helped by great seats although disappointing onlywith manual adjustment. Welcome five-star safety plus four available drivemodes that noticeably change the complexion of the drive, while steeringfeel is a high point. As I said earlier, it feels more premium in all it doesapart from some tyre roar on courser road surfaces. I came away veryimpressed with this electric Renault Megane – appealingly different and aclassy small French SUV. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At last, a French car this week – I was really looking forward to driving theRenault Megane E-Tech SUV. Visually, this electric Megane has a greatsilhouette more like a hatchback with large 20-inch alloys tucked right intothe corners, the styling impressive and giving it a more premium feelalthough the resultant high tail tends to limit rear visibility. With a 60kWhbattery pack feeding a single electric motor with 160kW and 320Nm oftorque driving through the front wheels it offers a driving range of 454Km.Step in and your immediately impressed with a quality and functionalinterior with great finishes. A wide 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster andinterconnected 9-inch multimedia touchscreen thankfully combine withswitchgear to make it all very user friendly, something the Chinesenewcomers could well learn from. There’s Android Auto and Apple CarPlay,dual zone climate control, wireless phone charging, heated front seats anda heated steering wheel. At $54,990 plus on-road costs the Megane E-Techis well priced, with combination cloth and leather seats that offer greatcomfort but lack power adjustment while the interior is a standout indesign. Warranty underdone at five-years/100,000km, battery warranty 8-years/160,000km. The proof however is in the driving which I’ll detail in anhour. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The car market is hotting up towards the end of the financial year withsome excellent savings and its very much a buyer’s market at present.Latest discount offer is from Chery with their 7-seat Tiggo 8 Pro Max SUV,cutting $3,000 from the entry Urban model to $38,990 drive-away, making itthe most affordable seven-seat family SUV on the market. Higher gradeshave also been cut – the Elite to $40,990 drive-away, the four-wheel driveUltimate to $43,990 drive-away, with savings of up to $4,000. Powered by a2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder driving through a 7-speed automatic the Tiggofeatures across all models include dual zone climate control air, wirelessphone charging, power adjustable heated and cooled seats and a full arrayof active safety features. The higher grades also offer a powered tailgate,panoramic sunroof and a built-in dash cam. I’m David Berthon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a move that simply beggars belief the N.S.W. Parliamentary Inquiry intoe-scooters and e-bikes has recommended allowing e-scooters to be riddenon shared paths and roads across N.S.W if they are ridden by a personolder than 16. They will remain outlawed on pedestrian only footpaths. Thishair-raising proposal would allow a speed limit of 10 to 20km/hour onshared paths and a 20 km/hour limit on roads where the speed limit is 50km/hour or below. N.S.W Roads Minister Jenny Atchison said that byregulating their use it would be easier to crack down on their behaviour. Isshe for real – allowing e-scooters onto the road at 20km/hour in all weatherconditions is a recipe for disaster – with no license or identification itsunmanageable and surely unfair to Police who have enough to worry aboutwithout having to worry about e-scooters. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talking further on National Road Safety Week starting today – a timesurely to reflect on the current poor driving standard in this state, Thecampaign is national however we still don’t have a set of national roadrules – individual states still singing from a different hymn book. NationalRoad Safety Week is the work of Peter Frazer who daughter Sarah wastragically killed by a truck driver in a totally avoidable crash on the HumeHighway at Mittagong in Feb 2012 when her car broke down. Tow truckdriver Geoffrey Clark and Sarah were loading her car when they were killedby the passing truck. Soon after N.S.W. expanded the road rule requiringdrivers to slow down to 40km/h for emergency responders to also includetow truck and roadside assistance workers. Amazingly, Victoria onlyannounced this week that from July 1 the current road rule requiringdrivers and motorcycle riders to slow down to 40km/h for police, fire, andambulance would be expanded - now including tow trucks, roadsideassistance and incident response vehicles displaying flashing lights. Itbeggars’ belief that after Sarah Frazer’s tragic death in 2012 it’s takenVictoria 13 years to implement a road rule which surely should have beennational road rule from Day 1. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Road Safety Week kicks off today, a time to reflect on the currentpoor driving standard in this state, National Road Safety Week the projectof Peter Frazer whose daughter Sarah was tragically killed by a truck driverin a totally avoidable crash on the Hume Highway at Mittigong in February2012. Since then, Peter has devoted his life to improving road safety -founding SARAH, standing for Safer Australian Roads and Highways. Thedriving force behind Australia’s National Road Safety Week and the roadsafety symbol the Yellow Ribbon. A campaign suggesting you wear ayellow ribbon on yourself and your car to show your support and make apledge on the SARAH website – “to drive so others survive” – to me giventhe total disregard by many motorists to road safety wearing a yellowribbon on yourself and your car is far too weak a message to what is aworsening problem year on year. We’ve just had two long weekends withincreased fatalities and numerous injuries. It’s clear there has beensubstantial vehicle growth in N.S.W. – a lot of new drivers mainly fromoverseas with poor knowledge of our road rules and driving conditions –you witness it almost daily – driver behavior and attitude is at an all-timelow, and driver education and compliance testing is in need of a radicaloverhaul. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Perhaps indicative of the hard trading conditions and highly competitivenew vehicle market Mazda has taken the axe to pricing on its CX-60 SUV.Up to $5,560 has been shaved from some models in the luxury CX-60 line-up - now priced from $53,990 drive-away while six new variants have beenadded across the Pure and Touring grades. First launched in 2023 theMazda CX-60 was criticised for its harsh ride and twitchy gear shifts. Assuch the update brings new rear springs and dampers, revised stabilitycontrols and a recalibrated 8-speed automatic transmission. Plus, allmodels now get a 360-degree camera and front cross traffic alert.Specification has been added right across the Mazda CX-60 range which isthe best seller in the medium SUV segment above $60,000, ahead of theLexus NX and the Kia EV5. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As reported in the Australian this week it seems the luxury car tax couldsoon be abolished as the re-elected Government gets calls from theEuropean Union to speed things up on a proposed free trade agreement.For so long a thorn in the side of the car industry the Luxury Car tax mostaffecting European imports and depending on the vehicles sticker priceadding 33 cents for every dollar it is over a threshold of $91,387 on fuelefficient vehicles, and on all others that average more than 7L/100km,$80,567. To make matters worse from July 1, the fuel consumption figurewill lower to 3.5L/100 trapping a number of previously exempt models.Luxury car tax was implemented to protect our local industry which nolonger exists – the Governments problem, how to replace the $1.2 billiondollars it generates. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Further on Mazda’s long standing CX-5 SUV but still highly competitive with ten models in a mix of petrol and diesel and front or all-wheel drive, I’m driving the second tier 2.5-litre six-speed automatic CX-5 Maxx Sport front wheel drive at $43,184 drive-away with optional metallic paint. I did nearly 900km over the Anzac weekend with a lot of highway cruising at the open road limit. The naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 140kW and 252Nm of torque did a workmanlike job but what surprised was the economy, averaging 7.4L/100km on 91 grade petrol with four passengers. This is simply a great allrounder, well shod 17-inch alloy wheels provide a very comfortable ride while the electric power assistance offers good feel whilst parking and on the run. Comfort and convenience items include dual zone climate control, satellite navigation, a head-up instrument display, well bolstered cloth seats, a rear-view camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus a good level of active safety elements. Thankfully the warning elements are not intrusive like many of the new breed of Chinese SUV’s. Disappointments – no wireless phone charger and the lack of a power rear door. However, the Mazda CX-5 is still up there as one of our best mid-size SUV’s. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving the popular Mazda CX-5 SUV today, Mazda’s top seller, it’s been around a long time in ten models, a mix of petrol and diesel and front or all-wheel drive. No hybrid but I’m told its coming. I drove the second tier 2.5-litre six-speed automatic CX-5 Maxx Sport front wheel drive - $43,184 drive-away, which included optional Soul Red Chrystal Metallic paint at $795. A colour that has in many ways become a trademark of Mazda. The CX-5 a good looker, still our fourth best-selling medium SUV, behind Toyota’s RAV4 and getting some strong competition these days from Kia’s Sportage and Hyundai’s Tuscon. I did nearly 900km over the Anzac weekend and it really surprised - well sorted, extremely comfortable for four adults – the Maxx Sport well specified apart from the lack of wireless phone charging and a power rear door. But it has dual zone air-conditioning with rear outlets, a welcome head up display, a rather small 8-inch display screen on the dash but just so safe to use with a rotary dialer to let you scroll through a menu – so much safer than many of the new Chinese SUV’s with their large touchscreens and no active buttons. Warranty 5-years/unlimited km. Drive details next. I’m David BerthonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.