I know exactly what the Ford Bronco is going to drive like. Sitting on the same T6.2 platform and virtually identical in size and weight, the Bronco will drive just like an Everest. But you know what they say about assumptions – this is a very different beast.

This feature isn’t some amazing scoop announcing that the US Bronco is suddenly available in local dealerships. This car is one of two that have been privately imported and converted by Melbourne’s Crossover Car Conversions. At the time of writing, you can buy this one tomorrow or order your very own, though the entry price – which we’ll get to – is unsurprisingly steep. The purpose of this exercise is to discover if the Bronco would be a worthwhile addition to Ford Australia’s range, either as a factory-produced vehicle or converted locally like the F-150. Being based on the same platform as the Ranger and Everest, there’s nothing except economics preventing Ford from offering it in right-hand drive – doing so at an acceptable price is the sticking point.

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Speaking of price, the well-optioned Ford Bronco Black Diamond you see here is $199,990. A huge amount of money, obviously, but when you consider it cost about AUD$90,000 in the States, then had to be shipped here, converted, and engineering certification completed, that’s the cost of doing business. With a couple under its belt, Crossover Car Conversions can offer a base Bronco for about AUD$150,000, all the way up to the Bronco Raptor at about $250,000 with a dizzying array of choices in between.

Ordering your Bronco is like dining at a Chinese restaurant where the menu runs to 10 pages and hundreds of items. To begin with, there are nine evocatively named variants: Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Heritage Edition, Badlands, Everglades, Wildtrak, Heritage Limited Edition and Raptor. Let’s forget the last one for a moment as, like the Ranger version, it’s very much its own thing.

All bar the Outer Banks and Everglades are available in two- or four-door guises. All the four-doors can be had as a soft or hard top (both removable) and all bar the Wildtrak come with a 2.3-litre turbo four-cylinder as standard. Big Bend, Black Diamond and Badlands models come standard with a seven-speed manual, though there’s also a 10-speed auto and selecting the 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 automatically equips this.

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From there you can select from Mid, High, Lux or Sasquatch (yes, really) equipment packages, though as you might expect as you climb the range, more and more of this becomes standard, and only certain packages are available on certain variants.

Our test car is a four-door, soft-top Black Diamond optioned with the V6 and the Sasquatch Package. So equipped, it’s the ultimate off-road beast, with marine-grade vinyl seats, drain plugs in the rubberized floor to hose out the interior and heavy-duty bash plates almost the full length of the car.

The Sasquatch Package takes this to the extreme with enormous 315/70 mud terrain tyres (Bigfoot, geddit?), beadlock-capable wheels, the Advanced 4×4 system, shorter 4.7:1 diff ratio, a locking front diff to join the one at the rear, high-clearance suspension and Bilstein position-sensitive dampers. Most buyers would want to also select the Mid package as it adds keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, reverse sensors, auto headlights, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist and more. Dimensionally, the comparison with the Everest is apt. The Bronco measures 4811mm in length, 1928mm in width and 1854mm in height, with a 2949mm wheelbase, while an Everest Trend is 4914/1923/1841/2900mm. Hauling capabilities are modest, with a payload of 534kg and 1563kg braked towing compared to the Everest’s 704kg and 3500kg respectively.

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But if you want a workhorse, buy a Ranger. The Bronco is more of a lifestyle machine. It’s why the roof and all the doors come off, though this is no doubt of greater appeal in Arizona or California than in a Melbourne winter. Personally, I’d spec my Bronco with the removable hard top, as driving the soft top at highway speeds is like being caught in a cyclone.

Higher-spec versions like the Wildtrak score leather-trimmed seats and a 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, but the Black Diamond makes do with plastic, vinyl, rubber and a functional – there’s wired smartphone mirroring but little else – 8.0-inch screen.

Rear accommodation is ample, though there’s only two seats, and the rear row folds virtually flat to expand the boot to mountain-bike-carrying levels of capacity. Another benefit of the removable hardtop is the flip-up rear window gives it a split-tailgate arrangement.

The Bronco’s optional engine is strong. Perfectly square with an 83mm bore and stroke, the 2694cc V6 is fed by twin mono-scroll turbos and produces 235kW at 5500rpm and 556Nm at 3250rpm on low-octane fuel, or another 11kW and 6Nm on premium juice. Even saddled with 2230kg it provides ample performance, and it wouldn’t be difficult to see this engine proving popular with Aussie Ranger buyers should it be offered like it is in the States (though it does like a drink, especially when turning 35-inch tyres).

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On the road the Bronco behaves in the manner you’d expect of a ladder-frame SUV with a live rear axle. The Bilstein dampers soak up big bumps without fuss – what speed hump? – but poor surfaces with small-amplitude corrugations can have it shimmying and shuddering.

Where Bronco differs substantially to its T6.2 siblings is its steering. It’s very quick by SUV standards and quite weighty – an unusual choice for a lumbering off-roader. Weirdly, both the small steering wheel and the weight and response of the steering itself remind me of an FK8 Honda Civic Type R.

Of course, where the Bronco – and this one in particular – really shines is off road. It’s not a stretch to say this is as capable as standard vehicles come. But it’s not infallible, grinding to a halt in 4H crossing a rut, the traction control completely flummoxed as to what to do with the unladen wheel – a situation most dual-cabs would’ve quickly sorted out.

However, the tougher the challenge, the more the Black Diamond shines.

All three diffs locked, the combination of those tyres, incredible approach and departure angles – compare Bronco’s 43.2/37-degree figures to the Everest’s 30.4/25.3 degrees, for instance – and 292mm of ground clearance make it borderline unstoppable.

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It also has some neat tricks. The Sasquatch Package brings Advanced 4×4 and G.O.A.T (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes such as mud/ruts, sand and rock crawl, which set the car up automatically at the press of a button. In addition, there’s trail turn assist, trail control (off-road cruise control) and the clever trail one-pedal drive, which means that when you back off the throttle it will quickly bring itself to a stop as if it has strong regenerative braking.

Those who privately import a Bronco will likely do so for its rarity and the awesome retro looks rather than its capability, but it’s clear there’s definitely a place for Ford’s off-road icon in Australia – IF the price is right. There’s no doubt buyers would line up around the block for a Bronco, but how many of them would be willing to stump up the required funds? That’s the likely $100,000 question.

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Ford Bronco Black Diamond Specifications

New Zealander Liam Lawson will fulfil a lifelong dream when he partners Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2025.

Lawson, 22, will replace Sergio Perez after a string of disappointing results from the Mexican in this year’s championship.

The Kiwi joins the top F1 team after time spent with Racing Bulls, Red Bull’s sister team, and its junior program.

Lawson’s ascension fulfils the promise seen in him six years ago by Rodin Cars founder David Dicker, who has supported his climb through the Red Bull Junior ranks to reach Formula 1.

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“Liam first came to Rodin Cars in February 2018 before he started racing in Europe and drove an old Formula 3 car on our test track,” recalls Dicker.

“Back then I could see his natural speed and ability so I kept an eye on his progress in Formula 4 and we met up again at the end of that season.

“Soon after we became involved in financially supporting his journey which ultimately became a partnership with Red Bull and Rodin in Formula 2.”

Dicker also contributed over a million dollars to keep Lawson’s second F2 season alive and help the young Kiwi star continue his progress through the ranks.

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“We were able to assist with the financial burdens Liam faced on his rise through motorsport and to reach a point where Liam is now in a championship winning Formula 1 team,” Dicker said.

“It’s very rewarding for us and a testament to Liam’s unwavering commitment and hard work to reach the pinnacle of international motorsport.”

Dicker is well aware of the financial hurdles facing up-and-coming race drivers as they progress through the open-wheel racing categories, with Rodin running cars for the locally based GB Formula 4 and 3 championships, as well as the FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2 categories that support Formula 1.

After the announcement Lawson said it was a “lifelong dream” to be racing with Red Bull.

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“This is something I’ve wanted and worked toward since I was 8 years old,” he said. “It’s been an incredible journey so far.”

“There’s no doubt that racing alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers ever seen in F1, is a daunting task,” Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said, “but I’m sure Liam can rise to that challenge and deliver some outstanding results for us next year.”

Lawson may not be the only Rodin-backed Kiwi to rise to the top. Dicker’s organisation has also invested heavily in fellow Kiwi driver Louis Sharp who recently became the first driver since the late Ayrton Senna to win back-to-back UK motor racing titles. This year Sharp won the GB3 championship to go along with his GB4 title won the previous year.

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Sharp will make his FIA Formula 3 debut at the Australian Grand Prix in March 2025, at the same meeting where Lawson will also make his Albert Park racing debut – for the first time in Oracle Red Bull Racing colours.

Additionally, Rodin Cars has joined with Motorsport New Zealand to promote a pathway called Formula Ford to Formula 1, powered by Rodin Cars.

The Albanese Government has announced a $150 million program to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible for Australians earning under $100,000 annually and for essential workers.

Delivered through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and in partnership with the Commonwealth Bank, the program provides discounted loans for new and used EVs priced up to $55K, as well as financing for home EV charging equipment.

The loans offer interest rates up to 5 percentage points lower than standard rates, potentially saving borrowers over $8000 on a $40,000 loan over a seven-year term.

Eligible applicants include those earning less than $100,000 annually and workers in key roles such as healthcare, education, policing, firefighting, and other emergency services.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said: “Discounted loans help remove barriers to ownership, helping more Australians drive cars that can save them thousands of dollars a year.”

With the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) coming into effect on 1 January 2025, these measures aim to support the transition to cleaner vehicles.

FCAI acknowledges government action but calls for broader measures

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) welcomed the initiative but emphasised ongoing challenges in the EV market.

FCAI head Tony Weber said that battery EVs accounted for only 7.4% of new vehicle sales in 2024, significantly below the forecasted 11.1%, or approximately 135,000 units.

“Less than 84,000 battery electric vehicles have been sold in Australia this year. Frankly, this is a disappointing result and well below our forecast,” Weber said.

Weber attributed the results to several factors, including higher purchase prices, limited charging infrastructure, and a lack of models catering to work and recreational needs.

He added that international markets are facing similar challenges as government incentives are scaled back.

“It is significant that the Government has recognised the need to do more to support sales of EVs in order to get anywhere near the challenge of achieving its extremely ambitious emissions reduction targets under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard,” Mr Weber said.

“Increasing consumer demand for plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles shows that consumers are prepared to move to low-emission technologies. The opportunity exists for the Government to consider further policy settings that support the shift to a lower emissions economy.”

Are PHEVs the right path?

Interest in PHEV models has grown among Australian buyers, seen by many as an ideal solution to range anxiety in a land with a massive road network and an impression of there being too few reliable EV chargers outside of city areas.

However, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) face criticism for prolonging fossil fuel dependency while offering limited environmental benefits or ownership cost savings when compared to fully electric vehicles (BEVs).

With a vast road network and sparse population density outside major cities, proponents of BEVs argue that investment in charging infrastructure should focus on solutions that support long-term decarbonisation, rather than transitional technologies like PHEVs.

Critics highlight that PHEVs often fall short in reducing emissions, as users in remote or regional areas may rely heavily on petrol due to limited charging opportunities, effectively turning PHEVs into conventional hybrids.

At least one PHEV-focused manufacturer, Mitsubishi, has moved to dispute that notion with a study that claims its PHEV owners are making the most of their vehicle’s electrification.

Critics insist however that Australia’s unique challenges, including the need for extensive infrastructure to service remote regions, make the case for prioritising BEVs stronger.

Most PHEVs also charge far slower than the latest BEVs, which means those on roadtrips can often be found occupying valuable public charging resources for slow and relatively small battery recharges, potentially hindering BEV users who rely entirely on these networks for mobility.

While PHEVs may provide a temporary option for bridging the gap in low-infrastructure areas, critics argue that doubling down on BEV infrastructure would better serve Australia’s long-term sustainability goals and align with emissions reduction targets, particularly as more long-range BEVs become available to meet the demands of rural and remote driving.

When your dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree, it’s tempting to ignore it—or worse, cover it with tape.

These warning lights exist for a reason, of course, and understanding them can save you from costly repairs or potential breakdowns.

Modern cars have between 25 and 40 dashboard icons, depending on their complexity. From routine alerts to critical warnings, these lights provide essential feedback about your vehicle’s health. Here’s your guide to decoding what they mean.

What do the colours of my dashboard lights mean?

Think of it like traffic lights, where red means stop, orange is caution, and green is go.

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? Red lights: Immediate action required

• Don’t ignore red lights: These are often critical and should be addressed immediately to avoid damage or unsafe driving conditions.
• Consult your owner’s manual: It provides detailed information about every dashboard icon in your specific vehicle.
• Get regular maintenance: Preventative care can help you avoid many of the issues indicated by warning lights.

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? Orange lights: Monitor or take action soon

An orange light usually signifies something that requires monitoring, such as low fuel or tyre pressure.

The terrifying ‘check engine’ light may also appear orange or red, depending on the severity of the problem detected, but it will often be accompanied by a more specific light for extra context.

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? ? ⬜ Green, blue, and white lights: Active features

These aren’t warnings so much as simple alerts to let you know that a particular feature is active, such as lights (driving, high-beam and fog), turning indicators, park brake, cruise control and driver-assist features like lane-keep assistant and active distance control.

The full rundown

Here’s an extensive list of dashboard symbols, to go with the terrifying key below

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Dashboard warning lights are more than just colourful distractions — they’re critical tools for keeping you informed about your car’s health.

Understanding what they mean can help you act quickly and avoid costly repairs.

If in doubt, always consult your car’s owner manual or seek assistance from a professional. Keeping on top of maintenance and addressing issues promptly will ensure your car stays safe and reliable.

What you need to know about getting your L and P plates in Australia

The opportunity to earn your learner or probationary licence is an exciting time for many new drivers and their families, but they must follow significant restrictions.

As the road rules in Australia are enforced at a state level, there are slight variations on what restrictions are applied to new drivers depending on their place of residence.

While there are differences in rules, each state and territory has a strict zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs for both L- and P-plate drivers.

Here is a run-through of critical rules and regulations facing learner and probationary drivers on the road across Australia’s different states and territories.

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The important numbers up front

You’ll find more detail if you continue reading, but here’s the important numbers side-by-side.

JUMP AHEAD

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia
• Other frequently asked questions

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Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Learner and provisional licence rules

What age do I have to be to get a licence in the ACT?

• Minimum age for a learner licence: 15 years, 9 months
• Minimum age for a provisional licence: 17 years (requires 12 months on a learner licence with logged hours)

How many passengers can I carry in the ACT?

• P1 drivers: Only one passenger allowed between 11pm and 5am, unless they are a family member or the travel is for work or education.
• Learner and P2 drivers: May carry passengers up to the vehicle’s legal seating capacity.

Can I tow a trailer in the ACT?

• Learner and P1 drivers: Restricted to trailers with a combined weight (trailer + load) of no more than 750kg GVM.

How fast can I drive in the ACT?

• Learners and P-plate drivers: Allowed to drive at the posted speed limit for the road.

Can I use my phone whilst driving in the ACT?

• Learner and provisional drivers are prohibited from using mobile devices while driving.
• This includes hands-free or Bluetooth-enabled features. Mobile phones may only be used for GPS, music, or podcasts if set before driving and not touched during the trip.

What vehicles are prohibited in the ACT?

There are no vehicle restrictions for provisional drivers in the Australian Capital Territory.

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New South Wales

What age do I have to be to get a licence in NSW?

• Minimum age for a learner licence in New South Wales: 16 years
• Minimum age for a provisional P1 licence: 17 years (requires 12 months on a learner licence and logbook hours if under 25).

How many passengers can I carry in NSW?

• P1 drivers under 25: Limited to one passenger under 21 years between 11pm and 5am.
• P1/P2 drivers returning from suspension: Limited to one passenger for 12 months.

Can I tow a trailer in NSW?

• Learners: Cannot tow trailers or other vehicles.
• P1 drivers: Limited to trailers with an unladen mass of no more than 250kg (loaded weight may exceed this).

How fast can I drive in NSW?

• Learners and P1 drivers: Maximum 90km/h
• P2 drivers: Maximum 100km/h

Can I use my phone whilst driving in NSW?

• All learner and provisional drivers are prohibited from using mobile phones in any mode, including hands-free.

What vehicles are prohibited in NSW?

• P1 and P2 drivers cannot drive vehicles with a power-to-weight ratio above 130kW/tonne or those classified as high-performance.
• Exemptions may apply for work-related purposes or exceptional circumstances.

For example, a Subaru WRX is considered a ‘high-performance’ vehicle and banned for provisional drivers in New South Wales, despite several variants falling below the maximum power-to-weight ratio of 130kW per tonne.

According to Transport for NSW, a provisional licence holder is permitted to drive a prohibited vehicle if it needs to be driven for “genuine work purposes” or if “exceptional circumstances apply”.

For further information on vehicles banned for provisional drivers in New South Wales, you can access the searchable database compiled by Transport for NSW [↗].

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Northern Territory

What age do I have to be to get a licence in the NT?

• Minimum age for a learner licence: 16 years
• Minimum age for a provisional licence: 16 years, 6 months (requires six months on a learner licence).

How many passengers can I carry in the NT?

• No passenger restrictions for learners or provisional drivers.

Can I tow a trailer in the NT?

• Learners and provisional drivers may tow vehicles or trailers. L- and P-plates must be displayed on both the vehicle and the trailer.

How fast can I drive in the NT?

• Learners: Maximum 80km/h
• Provisional drivers: Maximum 100km/h

Can I use my phone whilst driving in the NT?

• Prohibited for learner and provisional drivers, including hands-free usage.

What vehicles are prohibited in the NT?

• None for provisional drivers.

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Queensland

What age do I have to be to get a licence in Queensland?

• Minimum age for a learner licence: 16 years
• Minimum age for a provisional P1 licence: 17 years (requires 12 months on a learner licence with logbook hours if under 25).

How many passengers can I carry in Queensland?

• P1 drivers under 25: Limited to one passenger under 21 years between 11pm and 5am, unless they are immediate family.

Can I tow a trailer in Queensland?

• Learner and provisional drivers may tow vehicles or trailers with L- or P-plates displayed.

How fast can I drive in Queensland?

• No specific speed restrictions; L- and P-plate drivers must adhere to the posted speed limits.

Can I use my phone whilst driving in Queensland?

• Learners and P1 drivers under 25: Prohibited from using mobile phones in any capacity, including hands-free. Passengers cannot use loudspeaker functions while driving.

What vehicles are prohibited in Queensland?

• P1 and P2 drivers are restricted from operating vehicles with a power-to-weight ratio above 130kW/tonne or modified for performance.
• A provisional licence holder with an automatic-only condition can drive a prohibited vehicle with a manual transmission to learn, but only when a fully-licenced driver sits beside them and provides supervision.

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South Australia

What age do I have to be to get a licence in SA?

• Minimum age for a learner licence: 16 years
• Minimum age for a provisional P1 licence: 17 years

When is driving banned in SA?

• P1 drivers under 25: Limited to one passenger aged 16-20 and banned from driving between midnight and 5am.

Can I tow a trailer in SA?

• No towing restrictions for L- or P-plate drivers.

How fast can I drive in SA?

• Maximum 100km/h for L- and P-plate drivers, regardless of posted limits.

Can I use my phone whilst driving in SA?

• Prohibited for learners and P1 drivers, including hands-free usage.

What vehicles are prohibited in SA?

• P1 and P2 drivers under 25 cannot operate vehicles with a power-to-weight ratio above 130kW/tonne or modified for performance.

For further information on vehicles banned for provisional drivers in South Australia, including cars produced before 2010, you can access a searchable database compiled by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport [↗].

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Tasmania

What age do I have to be to get a licence in Tasmania?

• Minimum age for a learner licence: 15 years, 11 months
• Minimum age for a provisional licence: 17 years

How many passengers can I carry in Tasmania?

• P1 drivers (first 12 months): Limited to one passenger aged 16-21, excluding immediate family.
  • This restriction applies 24/7, although exemptions apply for employment, education or training, medical purposes, undue hardship, emergency services, or travelling with a fully-licenced driver beside you.
• Learner drivers and P2 drivers can carry up to the passenger capacity of the vehicle they are driving.

Can I tow a trailer in Tasmania?

• Learners cannot tow vehicles or trailers.
• P1 and P2 drivers may tow vehicles or trailers.

How fast can I drive in Tasmania?

• Learners: Maximum 90km/h
• P1 drivers: Maximum 100km/h

Can I use my phone whilst driving in Tasmania?

• Learners and P1 drivers cannot use mobile phones, including hands-free, but maps and audio media can be used if settings are applied before driving.
• P2 licence holders are allowed to use a mobile phone hands-free in Tasmania.

What vehicles are prohibited in Tasmania?

No restrictions for P1 or P2 drivers.

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Victoria

What age do I have to be to get a licence in Victoria?

• Minimum age for a learner permit: 16 years
• Minimum age for a probationary licence: 18 years – and you must have held a learner permit for at least 12 months with the required driving hours if aged under 21.

How many passengers can I carry in Victoria?

• P1 licence holders in Victoria cannot carry more than one peer passenger aged 16 to less than 22 years of age, excluding a spouse/domestic partner or siblings/step-siblings. This rule applies 24/7.
• Learner and P2 licence holders can carry up to the passenger capacity of their vehicle.

Can I tow a trailer in Victoria?

• Learners and P1 drivers cannot tow vehicles or trailers unless supervised for employment purposes:
• A P1 licence holder can tow another motor vehicle or trailer if it is in the course of employment and requested by an employer, or if a fully-licenced driver is sitting beside the probationary driver.
• P2 licence holders can tow another motor vehicle or trailer.

How fast can I drive in Victoria?

• No specific speed restrictions; drivers follow posted limits.

Can I use my phone or other devices whilst driving in Victoria?

• Prohibited for learners and probationary drivers, including hands-free and built-in systems.
• Mobile phone and seatbelt detection cameras were introduced in the state on March 31, 2023.

What vehicles are prohibited in Victoria?

P1 and P2 drivers cannot operate vehicles with a power-to-weight ratio above 130kW/tonne or modified for performance.

According to VicRoads, a probationary licence holder can drive a prohibited vehicle if a fully-licenced driver sits beside them and provides supervision.

In addition, exemptions apply to selected vehicles. For further information, consult VicRoads’ Probationary Prohibited Vehicle database [↗].

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Western Australia

What age do I have to be to get a licence in WA?

• Minimum age for a learner licence: 16 years
• Minimum age for a provisional P1 licence: 17 years

When is driving banned in WA?

• P1 provisional licence holders are not permitted to drive between midnight and 5am for the first six months they hold a driver’s licence in Western Australia (with some exemptions).

How many passengers can I carry in WA?

• There are no passenger capacity restrictions for learner and provisional drivers in Western Australia.

Can I tow a trailer in WA?

• No towing restrictions for L- or P-plate drivers.

How fast can I drive in WA?

• No specific restrictions; drivers follow posted limits.

Can I use my phone whilst driving in WA?

• Limited hands-free use is permitted, but touching the phone is prohibited.

What vehicles are prohibited in WA?

• No restrictions for provisional drivers.

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Other frequently asked questions

What is the blood alcohol limit for L- and P-plate drivers?

All L- and P-plate drivers must have a zero blood alcohol concentration nationwide.

Is food delivery such as Uber Eats allowed for P-plate drivers?

There are no mandated conditions for these services, although they do apply their own restrictions.

• Uber Eats, Menulog: P-platers are not allowed.
• DoorDash: Permitted with appropriate insurance.

Can P-platers rent cars?

Rental policies vary: Most companies require drivers to be over 21 with a full licence.

Navigating the licensing rules for learner and provisional drivers in Australia can feel complex, given the variations across states and territories.

Thankfully, most drivers will only need to think about just one state.

It’s essential, of course, to consult the official transport authority in your state or territory to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

Drive safe!

Here’s some more reading

MINI Australia has announced all-electric versions of its high-performance John Cooper Works models will arrive in Australia in the first quarter of 2025.

The All-Electric John Cooper Works and All-Electric JCW Aceman variants, which debuted at the 2024 Paris Motor Show earlier in 2024, each feature a more aerodynamic design to match output from the electric motor.

Each front-wheel-drive vehicle achieves a maximum output of 190kW and 350Nm, the Works three-door covering 0 to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Works Aceman notches 6.4 seconds. Both models have a top speed of 200km/h. Driving range is cited at a WLTP-rated 371km for the Works variant and up to 355km for the JCW Aceman.

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The back story to these small but powerful Minis goes back more than six decades when John Cooper set about developing a sportier version of the classic Mini. His cars went onto claim rally and race victories before being realised as a commercial option for consumers.

The new fully electric models call on an additional 20kW of electric power when activating ‘go-kart mode’ via a steering wheel paddle to boost acceleration. Suspension and braking systems are optimised to enhance the agile, road-gripping go-kart experience. Aerodynamically optimised wheel designs are available exclusively for the all-electric MINI John Cooper Works in 18-inch and in 19-inch size for the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman.

The design language of both variants is suitably racy, the red, white and black John Cooper Works logo reminiscent of a chequered flag, while a black and red pattern adorns the knitted surface of the dashboard.

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The JCW driver and front passenger seats are upholstered in black vegan leather with multicoloured knitted fabric at the shoulders and red accent stitching.

Tech upgrades include a high-resolution OLED display where driver and front passenger can access air conditioning, media, phone and navigation settings. Drive assistance tech includes automatic speed and distance control for more convenient city driving.

“We are thrilled to introduce these new additions to our line-up, bringing together the renowned road feel and engagement of John Cooper Works MINI models with the instantaneous power delivery and response of our fully electric offerings for maximum driving fun,” said Alexander Brockhoff, General Manager, MINI Australia & New Zealand.

Potential customers can configure their MINI John Cooper Works at: https://www.mini.com.au/configurator/type/jcw.

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Keeping track of all the new cars arriving in Australia is a job in its own right, but our New Car Calendar is here to help. Regularly updated, it’s your go-to guide for upcoming releases.

If you’re specifically interested in small cars, this dedicated calendar article is here to keep you informed without leaving you distracted by other options. Our new cars hub will also help you to find out more about the latest models touching down in Australia.

Australia’s new small cars of 2024 and 2025: Hatchbacks and sedans

JUMP AHEAD

• Audi A3
• BMW 1 Series
• BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
• Cupra Born VZ
• Cupra Leon facelift
• Honda Civic
• Hyundai i30 Sedan Hybrid facelift
• Hyundai i30 hatch facelift
• MG3
• Mini Cooper hatch
• Peugeot E-208
• Peugeot E-308
• Skoda Fabia
• Skoda Scala (update)
• Subaru WRX
• Suzuki Swift
• Toyota Yaris
• VW Golf facelift
• VW ID.3 (electric)

LATER

• Kia K4 (2025)
• Renault 5 E-Tech (?)

Same but different…

? Looking for a small SUV instead?

Now read on for all the news on incoming small cars!

Audi A3 & S3 facelift

Audi revealed pricing and specifications in December for its updated A3 and S3 models, ahead of an early 2025 launch.

The line-up again includes Sportback and sedan options, with the A3 priced from $54,800 and the S3 starting at $78,800 (before on-road costs). Notable updates include revised styling, a tech-laden interior and more standard features, with the S3 also promising improved performance and handling.

The A3 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, producing 110kW and 250Nm. Standard equipment includes Matrix LED headlights with customisable light signatures, a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit, and a five-star ANCAP safety rating. The S line package adds sporty design elements, while the colour palette expands to include District Green, Ascari Blue, and Progressive Red.

The S3 features a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 245kW and 420Nm, with power delivered to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro system and a new torque splitter for improved cornering dynamics. It claims a 0-100km/h time of 4.7 seconds and offers features like adaptive dampers, an optional Akrapovič exhaust, and fine Nappa leather upholstery. Deliveries for the updated range will begin in early 2025.

BMW 1 Series

BMW Australia launched the updated 2025 1 Series in December, with the 118 priced from $56,500 and the M135 xDrive from $82,500 before on-road costs.

Both models feature refreshed styling, updated tech, and new powertrains.

The 118 offers a 115kW/230Nm 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine, while the M135 xDrive boasts a 233kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder with all-wheel drive.

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe

The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, announced for Australia in October, is set to arrive in Q1 2025.

The refreshed line-up includes the entry-level 218, priced at $58,800, and the performance-focused M235 xDrive, starting at $85,500 (both before on-road costs). This update introduces new styling, increased standard equipment, and improved dynamics.

The 218 is powered by a 115kW/230Nm 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, while the M235 xDrive boasts a 233kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, delivering a 0-100km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds. Both feature a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and adaptive suspension.

New standard features include BMW’s Curved Display with Operating System 9, 5G eSIM, adaptive cruise control, and matrix LED headlights. The M235 xDrive adds 19-inch wheels, a Harman/Kardon sound system, and advanced driver aids, continuing its role as the flagship model.

Cupra Born VZ

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Cupra Australia has confirmed the Born VZ electric hatchback is set to launch in the first half of 2025, likely sometime in the second quarter.

This high-performance variant features a single-motor rear-wheel-drive powertrain delivering 240kW and 545Nm, enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h.

The Born VZ is equipped with a 79kWh battery pack, slightly larger than the standard model’s 77kWh, and incorporates a Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) Sport setup with revised dampers, anti-roll bars, and rear springs. Exterior enhancements include wider tyres and 20-inch alloy wheels, available in forged or with 3D copper inserts, along with new colour options such as Midnight Black and Dark Forest green.

Pricing details have yet to be announced, but the Born VZ is expected to be positioned above the current model, which is priced at $59,990 before on-road costs.

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Cupra Leon hatch & Sportstourer

The Cupra Leon Sportstourer will arrive in Australia in mid-2025 to coincide with a mid-life facelift for the hot hatch and wagon.

Details at the linked story above.

Honda Civic

The updated 2025 Honda Civic has launched in Australia, starting at $49,990 drive-away.

Now exclusively offered as a hybrid (apart from the Type R), the regular Civic line-up includes two variants: the e:HEV L and e:HEV LX.

Both are powered by a 2.0L direct injection engine paired with two electric motors, delivering 135kW and 315Nm.

Key updates include a redesigned front bumper, 18-inch alloy wheels, and enhanced in-car technology with Google built-in for navigation, live traffic updates, and apps. Honda Sensing is standard across the range, providing advanced driver assistance and safety features.

Hyundai i30 hatch facelift

Hyundai’s 2025 i30 hatch range was detailed in August, with the new line-up consisting exclusively of sporty N Line MHEV and performance hero N trims.

Now sourced from the Czech Republic, the i30 hatch range starts at $36,000 plus on-road costs for the N Line, featuring a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The powertrain delivers 117kW and 235Nm, supported by 48-volt mild-hybrid technology for improved efficiency.

Styling updates include a refreshed grille, new headlights, sportier side skirts, 18-inch alloys, and interior upgrades like a 10.25-inch digital display and USB-C ports. The N Line Premium adds Bluelink connectivity, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated sport seats, and advanced safety features like Highway Driving Assist. Prices for the Premium start at $41,000 plus on-road costs, with European production impacting costs.

The updated i30 N hot hatch remains in the line-up, again powered by a 209kW 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and offered with manual or dual-clutch automatic transmissions. It’s priced from $50,000 before on-road costs.

Hyundai i30 Sedan Hybrid facelift

The wildly styled Hyundai i30 sedan was treated to revised front-end treatment and exterior tweaks as part of a mid-life update in 2023 and will see a hybrid powertrain taken from the Kona SUV join the line-up in 2024.

Available across entry-level i30, Elite and Premium trim levels, the hybrid pairs a 1.32kWh battery and 22kW electric motor with the i30’s 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine and six-speed dual-clutch automatic for a claimed combined fuel economy figure of 2.8L/100km.

The base i30 hybrid also gains multi-link rear suspension, dual-zone air-conditioning that the entry-level petrol version misses out on.

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MG3

The 2024 MG3 launched in June, featuring significant changes in its size, equipment, and technology – including MG’s first regular hybrid drivetrain.

The new model is available in two trim levels: Excite and Essence. The Excite starts at $24,990 plus on-road costs, while the Essence is priced from $26,990 plus on-road costs.

The MG3 offers a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 82kW and 150Nm, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). There’s also a 1.5-litre hybrid option delivering a combined 137kW and 300Nm, utilising a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The 2024 MG3 boasts a more spacious interior, advanced infotainment systems, and improved safety features, including autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance.

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Mini Cooper hatch – Q3

The 2024 MINI Cooper three-door hardtop range is on sale now, offering a mix of petrol and electric powertrains across four variants.

Petrol options include the Cooper C with a 115kW/230Nm three-cylinder engine and the sportier Cooper S, boasting a 150kW/300Nm four-cylinder engine. Claimed fuel consumption ranges from 5.9L/100km to 6.1L/100km, with prices starting at $41,990 before on-road costs.

Electric variants include the Cooper E and Cooper SE, priced from $53,990 and $58,990 respectively, with a claimed range of up to 400km. Both feature 18-inch alloy wheels, advanced driver aids, and heated sports seats. This launch marks the final petrol-powered MINI range before transitioning fully to electric drivetrains.

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Peugeot E-208

The Peugeot E-208 electric hatch, originally due here this year, is now a TBC, with only a ‘sometime in 2025’ line offered.

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Peugeot E-308

In November, Peugeot announced the all-electric E-308 hatchback for Australia, with an initial allocation of 14 units available for pre-order. This limited release serves as a preview ahead of a broader launch planned for 2025.

The E-308 is powered by a 115kW electric motor and a 54kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of up to 400km. It supports DC fast charging, enabling a 20-80% charge in approximately 25 minutes. The vehicle features regenerative braking to enhance energy efficiency.

Skoda Fabia Select

Skoda expanded its Fabia line-up in August with the introduction of a new entry-level Select variant, priced at $31,900 drive-away.

Joining the flagship Monte Carlo Edition 150, which starts at $38,990 drive-away, the Select aims to make the Fabia more accessible for buyers after a two-year absence of a budget-friendly option.

The Fabia Select features a 1.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 85kW/200Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

Skoda Scala – April 2024

Skoda launched 2025 Scala hatchback for Australia in September, available in two new variants: the Select, priced from $32,490 drive-away, and the sportier Monte Carlo, starting at $43,990 drive-away.

The Scala Select is powered by an 85kW/200Nm 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, while the Monte Carlo steps up with a 110kW/250Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol unit.

Both feature a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and claimed fuel economy figures of 5.4L/100km and 5.6L/100km, respectively. Performance differs, with the Select claiming 0-100km/h in 10.1 seconds, compared to 8.2 seconds for the Monte Carlo.

Standard equipment on the Select includes 17-inch alloys, advanced driver assistance systems, and keyless entry, while the Monte Carlo adds 18-inch alloys, adaptive cruise control, sports chassis control, and heated front seats.

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Subaru WRX

Along with a general model-year update, Subaru Australia launched the WRX Club Spec in April, priced at $52,590 before on-road costs.

The Club Spec sedan features a six-speed manual transmission, Recaro front seats, Brembo brakes, 19-inch matte grey alloy wheels, and a distinctive STI-style rear spoiler.

The wider 2024 WRX range gains upgrades across the board, including active safety features like autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist for manual sedan variants. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, with all wagon variants receiving a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The WRX line-up starts at $47,490 for the manual sedan, with prices increasing slightly for 2024. The range-topping WRX Sportswagon tS is priced at $59,790. All variants are now available to order in Australia.

Suzuki Swift

Suzuki Australia announced pricing for the new 2024 Swift in April, with the range starting at $24,490 drive-away for the Swift Hybrid manual.

The line-up now includes three mild-hybrid variants, topping out with the flagship Swift Hybrid GLX at $29,490 drive-away.

All variants are powered by a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid three-cylinder petrol engine producing 61kW/112Nm, with assistance from a 2.3kW/60Nm integrated starter-generator. Transmission options include a five-speed manual or a CVT automatic, with Suzuki claiming fuel consumption of 3.8L/100km for the manual and 4.0L/100km for the automatic.

Standard features include a 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, LED headlights, and keyless entry. Higher trims add 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, and safety tech like blind-spot monitoring.

The Swift’s safety credentials have taken a hit, however, with ANCAP awarding the 2024 model a one-star rating.

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Toyota Yaris update

Toyota launched the refreshed 2024 Yaris in April, reintroducing a more affordable hybrid option with the Ascent Sport hybrid, priced from $28,500 before on-road costs.

This marks the return of a sub-$30,000 model after the recent shift to a hybrid-only line-up and the discontinuation of petrol variants.

Pricing for SX and ZR variants has risen by up to $1770, while the Yaris Ascent Sport hybrid offers a more cost-conscious entry point to the range. Full details at the story linked above.

VW Golf facelift

Volkswagen unveiled the facelifted 2025 Golf in January, at least a full year out from its Australian debut.

The updated Mk8.5 Golf introduces sharper LED headlights, revised bumpers, new alloy wheels, and an upgraded interior featuring a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen with improved infotainment and physical steering wheel controls.

The Golf GTI receives a power boost, with its 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine now producing 195kW. Globally, the GTI drops its manual transmission option, remaining automatic-only.

Production for the Australian market begins in late 2024, marking this facelifted Golf as the final combustion-engine model before the all-electric Mk9 arrives around 2028.

VW ID.3 (electric) – Unclear

The ID.3 was expected to debut Volkswagen’s ‘ID’ electric sub-brand in Australia with a sub-$60k starting price, but its future is now unclear.

A local launch sometime before the end of 2024 was on the cards, but now appears unlikely as the brand turns its focus to bigger models like the ID.4, ID.5 and Buzz.

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The Not So Distant Future…

Kia K4 (2025)

Kia unveiled its new Cerato-replacing K4 sedan and hatch in March, but a local debut isn’t expected to occur until 2025.

That launch event will likely occur in sync with the Australian Open, where main sponsor Kia likes to show off its latest models. Learn more about the K4 in our linked stories above.

Renault 5 E-Tech EV (who knows?)

Renault unveiled its very retrotastic 5 E-Tech EV in early March – but, while its external Australian distributor is keen to have it, the carmaker has yet to confirm if we’ll get it.

Read more about the very cool little electric hatch at the linked story above. Want it in Australia? Let your Renault dealer know.

Mazda aims to refresh the appeal of the smallest cars in its Australian portfolio with a round of updates for both the Mazda2 hatch and the CX-3 light SUV.

The base grades of both will receive advanced i-Activsense safety technologies, while modest styling tweaks aim to give these affordable models a fresher look.

Despite being introduced in 2015 and facelifted in 2018, almost ten years after its initial introduction, the CX-3 remains a favourite with Aussie buyers due to sensible pricing, strong quality and effervescent handling.

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The 2025 range won’t be quite so affordable, as the previous entry point, the Sport grade has been ditched, the range now opening with the Pure trim which now gets 18-inch gun metal machined alloy wheels, Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) and Smart Brake Support (SBS) in additional to its existing autonomous emergency braking technology suite.

Above that, the Evolve grade also gets this safety suite, as well as fog lamps and advanced keyless entry. The aesthetic benefits from 18-inch black machined alloy wheels while the cabin sees black leatherette seat trim, extending to the console and doors.

There’s been a reshuffle at the top of the range too, with the GT SP replacing the Touring SP model grade, adding 18-inch black alloys and a 7-speaker Bose stereo. The flagship Akari also debuts new 18-inch bright finish alloys.

We don’t tend to think of Volkswagen as a late entrant to the EV market, having established itself with cars such as the id.3 in Europe from 2020, but Australia is a very different market to the homeland, and we’ve skipped on the first wave of Vee-Dub’s EV products.

That also included the ID. Buzz, launched in Europe in 2022, but which only now makes its way Down Under.

Why the wait? The prime reason is that VW had bigger fish to fry, prioritising those markets that had rapidly looming internal combustion engine cut-off dates before it started casting the net wider.

While Aussie buyers have missed out on plug-in Volkswagens to date, the good news is that the ID. Buzz that’s coming here, and almost concurrently to the US, is the revised and updated version, delivering a refreshed interior and a step-change in the amount of torque under your right clog. Has it been worth the wait? Let’s take a closer look.

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JUMP AHEAD

• How much is it, and what do you get?
• How do rivals compare on value?
• Interior comfort, space and storage
• What is it like to drive?
• How much energy does it use?
• How safe is it?
• Warranty and running costs
• VERDICT
• Specifications

How much is it, and what do you get?

There’s a two-phased intro for the ID. Buzz in Australia. The first vehicles to arrive, and the ones we’ve been testing, are the Pro trim level. These are rear drive models offered in either short or long wheelbase guises with five and seven seats respectively.

The range opens at $87,990 for the five-seat SWB version, with the seven-seat LWB Pro pitched at $91,290, barely squeaking under the 2025 Luxury Car Tax threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles of $91,387. Bear that number in mind if you’re getting a bit excitable with the options list or looking to lease with Fringe Benefits Tax implications in mind.

In quarter two of 2025, Australia will start to receive shipments of the all-wheel drive ID. Buzz GTX, the flagship dual motor model, which will carry a $109,990 sticker price. We’ll report on that one as soon as we get our hands on it.

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Commercial operators will probably be drawn to the ID. Buzz Cargo commercial vehicle, which we’ll also deal with separately.

Straight off the bat, paying an additional three grand and change for the longer wheelbase model seems like money well spent. It’s got another 350mm grafted between its axles, and this means that not only the second but the third row also has ample room for adult-sized adults; a genuine rarity amongst most vehicles that bill themselves as seven seaters.

In addition to that, the LWB models also lever in a few additional lithium-ion battery cells, which lifts the total battery output from the 84kWh gross (79kWh net) of the SWB model to a healthier 91kWh gross (86kWh net). Do the maths and that’s a nine percent increase in net battery size for less than a four percent uptick in vehicle price, notwithstanding the practicality benefits.

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The Pro trim comes fairly well equipped too. It runs on 19-inch alloy wheels and features sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle.

Tri-zone smart climate control, 10-colour ambient lighting, a cloth interior, 7 USB-C ports, a 9-speaker stereo and rear privacy glass are standard refinements. While we were testing only wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was offered, although Volkswagen assures us that an over the air update will arrive for wireless phone mirroring in 2025. Yes, there’s also the support of a wireless charging pad so that you don’t have to plug your handset in anyway.

There’s the option of 21-inch wheels at $1900 which introduce a noticeable level of bump and thump into the cabin, and the eye-catching two-tone paint is a fairly eye-watering $4090. In fact Candy White is the only standard paint colour. As soon as you start ticking metallic or pearlescent colours, you’re adding $1890 to the bill.

There are a series of options packs, detailed below:

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While it’s not cheap, the ID. Buzz builds on an iconic line of Volkswagen minibuses which, to a certain extent, have conditioned buyers to premium pricing.

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How do rivals compare on value?

Rivals? You tell us. If you absolutely want to maximise every last centimetre of interior space and every litre of boot capacity, chances are you’re not the target market for the ID. Buzz.

You might well be in the airport transfer or maxi-taxi business and there are already a whole host of ICE options that cater to this market very well. A Kia Carnival or a Hyundai Staria both offer more space and arguably better thought-through detailing for carrying a stack of passengers, but for many potential Buzz customers, that’s missing the point.

The ID. Buzz is a vibe. It’s a claim that many manufacturers would like to make, and occasionally do, but in this case it’s absolutely true. Many buyers will be reasonably price insensitive and will place a value on its design equity, enjoying the fact that such a stylish and endearing vehicle is also endowed with a practical side.

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Interior comfort, space and storage

Volkswagen could have easily compromised the ID. Buzz by trying to squeeze seven seats into the SWB body. Fortunately it hasn’t.

As a result, but the five and seven seaters offer stacks of leg and headroom in every seating position. It’s a genuine revelation if you’re sick of passengers complaining about being seated in the non-favoured seats.

The dash layout is interesting, with a small and somewhat busy ‘pod’ binnacle in front of the driver and a large 12.9-inch screen in the centre. The ambience is luxe, even if some of the Scandi-cool ash wood effect of our test vehicle’s dash is revealed to be a fairly thin, hard plastic strip.

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Yes, there are a few of the loathed haptic controls on the dash and the steering wheel, but they worked reasonably well.

Fear not, you’re not going to have to rub at them as if you’re willing a workshy genie to appear. The main screen’s user interface isn’t great, but would doubtless improve with familiarity. An ‘Ask IDA’ command, also activated by pressing what you would expect to be a central home key also takes you to an overview screen.

Your view from the driver’s seat is commanding. The hip height in this vehicle is reassuringly elevated, but even taller drivers will have no issues with headroom, even with the optional glass pano roof fitted. This, by the way, has no blinds, but features a sandwiched PDLC film which can switch the roof from transparent to a milky semi-opacity at the touch of a button.

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The huge quarterlight windows and the yawning distance to the windscreen base mark this as something decidedly different in form factor to your garden-variety SUV.

The mirrors are surprisingly small. I’d have liked bigger door mirrors, but otherwise visibility is very good, with a low hipline helping you to remain confident about manoeuvring and parking what, in LWB guise, is quite a sizeable vehicle. At 4962mm long, it’s longer than a big SUV like a Mercedes-Benz GLE. In other words, you might want to measure the amount of available real estate in your garage before you sign up for the seven-seater.

As well as plenty of space once ensconced, the access to the third row is very good, with the second seat tumbling forward and leaving a generous aperture to clamber through.

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A rather secreted-away fabric pull tab even allows the third row to recline by up to 16 degrees, improving comfort in the process. There are sliding side windows to vent the second row and seat-back tables.

Volkswagen seems quite proud of its ID. Buzz Box, a plastic edifice located between the front seats which features open and closed compartments including a five-litre drawer as well as cup holders and a bottle opener. It’s removable and attaches to the vehicle floor with locking latches and folding eyes.

Arcane car reference incoming, but the Opel Signum from 2003 featured something broadly similar in the back seats called the Travel Assistant. That was a source of more rattles and squeaks than the rest of the car put together.

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Thankfully the Buzz Box doesn’t live up to its name in that regard, but it’s questionable how often it’d be hauled off onto the beach for a picnic.

The tailgate of the ID.Buzz is a powered system and the standard floor has a length of 1121mm to the rear seats in the SWB. In the seven seater, you get 1340mm to the second row, but a mere 306mm when the rear seats are used.

The third row is removable, but even a vehicle of this size doesn’t entirely solve the issue of carrying a big family and their gear. Should you wish, you can option a Multi-flex board that raises the boot floor but allows for two storage boxes that slide beneath, keeping valuables out of sight. One thing you won’t find is a spare wheel and tyre set.

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What is it like to drive?

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is unexceptional to drive. While that might sound like a slightly sniffy pejorative, in this case it’s anything but.

It feels pleasantly calibrated in all of its key dynamics and controls, with nothing standing out as a dominating characteristic. And that is exactly how it should drive.

The 210kW power output doesn’t translate to unruly or corrupted acceleration off the line. The steering is light but accurate, the brake pedal expertly finessed to blend re-gen with friction braking, performing the handover to the front discs and rear drums when retardation hits 0.25g.

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It’s clear that a lot of time and effort has been spent on smoothing the rough edges from the ID. Buzz’s dynamics and there’s a lot to be said for a vehicle that’s undemanding and which won’t spring any unwanted surprises on you.

The drive route took us on some fairly scratchy roads around the Hunter Valley and, from the front seats, ride quality was more than acceptable. Firmish but not harsh. There’s no option for adaptive suspension, so generous tyre sidewall is your friend if you value a plusher ride.

As you move further back in the vehicle, you begin to notice a little more vertical movement which is perhaps surprising, as you’re moving from sitting over a strut suspension to a more sophisticated multi-link in the rear.

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The steering takes 3.42 turns to go from lock to lock and the turning circle of the long wheelbase model is a relatively spry 11.4 metres.

Because the steering rack is mounted ahead of the centreline of the front wheels, there’s a reassuring stability to the base setup of the electrically assisted steering.

The gear selector is a stubby column-mounted wand that you twist and press to select gears. As well as a self-explanatory ‘D’ mode, there’s also a ‘B’ setting. In ‘D’, the ID. Buzz will coast when the driver lifts off the throttle, but energy recuperation will begin when the brake pedal is pressed.

Engage ‘B’ (brake) mode on the fly and the ID. Buzz will re-gen on lift off up to a retardation limit of 0.13g. It’s not a true ‘one pedal’ driving solution, but it’s been designed as a solution that won’t alienate those drivers migrating to the Buzz from an ICE vehicle.

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Acceleration is crisp rather than concussive, the SWB getting to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds and the heavier LWB car in 7.9 seconds.

Top speed is rated at 160km/h, so while the Buzz is never going to be an autobahn stormer, it’s got plenty in reserve for an Aussie freeway schlep.Torque off the line is notably good, which takes the stress out of accelerating out onto roundabouts or away from junctions. Even when loaded, there’s plenty of torque on tap and this is a huge improvement over the original ID. Buzz, lifting that peak (and instant) torque from a so-so 310Nm to a far healthier 560Nm figure.

The Pro trim comes with Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual drive modes, controlling variables such as steering weighting, throttle response and electric motor response.

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A sharp throttle and lighter steering seemed to be suit the ID. Buzz best, so the Individual mode may well be a good pick there.

Body roll is well controlled, thanks to the low centre of gravity and the low-rolling resistance Continental EcoContact 6Q tyres (235/35 R19) were admirably quiet. Only determinedly inappropriate driving would push the front end into modest understeer, so the handling setup is safe and extremely well judged.

We had a few issues with one of the seven-seater test cars. The wired Android Auto connection fell over repeatedly and then flat refused to allow reconnection. A spurious tyre pressure warning also illuminated and the adaptive cruise also seemed to scrub off 10-15km/h very frequently for no apparent reason on arrow-straight, lightly trafficked freeways.

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How much energy does it use?

Driving range is rated at 422km for the SWB and 452km for the bigger-batteried LWB variant.

In mixed use driving in the LWB, we saw typical energy usage of around 20kWh/100km, which would translate to a range of around 395km, which isn’t too far off the claim. Is that enough? That very much depends on your expectation. If you’re planning to use your ID. Buzz to drive around Australia, you might wish for a it to be leggier between recharges. This, however, adds weight, complexity, cost and a whole host of other compromises.

We did find that, as with virtually all EVs, battery usage is poorest on a highway run. The LWB version was typically seeing around 23kWh/100km, so that would translate to 343km of range. A freeway radius of 172km (return) before recharging is something to bear in mind.

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In more mixed use, that energy consumption figure dropped sharply, and with a few more opportunities to engage re-gen, we could see that the Buzz could indeed attain those WLTP numbers.

When it comes to recharging, you won’t get the lightning fast charging speeds you might have come to expect from some South Korean cars. Plug one into the juiciest 350kW charger you can find and it’ll still peak at around 185kW, which translates a 5-80% state of charge in 30 minutes. If you’ve got a wallbox at home, expect to go from zero to 100 percent in a worst-case scenario 7h30m.

If you haven’t got a wallbox and just plug into a normal electrical socket, you’ll have to twiddle your thumbs for nearly 23 hours. Both Mode 2 (home) and Mode 3 (public) charging cables are supplied with the vehicle. The charging port is on the rear of the vehicle at the driver’s side and, yes, it is still accessible if the sliding door is open.

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How safe is it?

The ID.Buzz carries a five-star EuroNCAP score, so it’s doubtful you’ll have too much in the way of safety concerns. It comes with a long list of safety gear including:

It would have been nice to have some sort of speed limit recognition, but that’s hardly a deal breaker. Volkswagen also offers a function called Travel Assist with swarm data, effectively an enhanced adaptive cruise that not only adapts to your preferred vehicle positioning in the lane but also pick up the speed limits from mapping data, offering an adaptive cornering function as a result.

Interestingly, it has been calibrated for the SWB car at the time of writing but not for the LWB version.

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Warranty and running costs

Like the rest of the Volkswagen range, the ID. Buzz is supplied with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

The battery is guaranteed for eight years and the modular nature of the battery means that cell modules can be removed and replaced if necessary without incurring the huge cost of an entire battery pack.

On the subject of ownership, to coincide with its first EV launch in Australia, the Volkswagen Group is rolling out a new program called ON EV, covering not only Volkswagen cars and light commercials, but Audi, Skoda, and Cupra too.

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The company talked to its buyers in order to gain a comprehensive picture of what was stopping them buying an electric car and has aimed to solve those issues with ON EV.

It has partnered with AMPOL to offer discounted public charging, it offers a deal with Europcar for extended ‘try before you buy’ arrangements such as a month with a Cupra Born, and it has worked with its financial services team to not only bundle the cost of home chargers and installation into one single payment finance deals but also to develop more flexible novated lease arrangements that will especially help smaller businesses.

An upfront Guaranteed Future Value also aims to take a lot of the anxiety away from EV residuals.

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Buyers also get a five-year subscription to the GoConnect App where they can remotely monitor the status of the car, the battery health, locate the vehicle, communicate with the workshop, monitor any vehicle warnings and see recent trips.

The servicing schedule and pricing is as follows:

Alternatively, services can be bundles into discrete care plans, which tends to work out cheaper if you have a clearer view of how long you’ll keep the ID. Buzz for. A six year/three service deal is $1450, an eight year/four service plan is $1850 and 10 years and five services works out at $2250.

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VERDICT

Volkswagen claims to have over 7000 registrations of interest here in Australia for the ID. Buzz and that doesn’t surprise us one bit.

If those are converted to orders, it would make this the second biggest-selling product for the Australian arm after the Amarok ute. So you can see why it’s quite a big deal for them.

Fortunately, the vehicle appears to live up to the pre-launch hype. It’s hugely endearing, more than adequately practical, drives pleasantly enough and has that rare quality for an electric vehicle: character.

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This will serve to elevate the ID. Buzz to a polished lifestyle accessory.

The ID. Buzz isn’t perfect. The ride can be choppy on the larger 21-inch wheels, there are still issues with the infotainment system and some may hanker for longer real-world range if they want to turn their hand to hitting the open roads of Australia. We encountered some electronic gremlins with our test vehicle too.

Although Volkswagen claim that it’s cheaper than many were expecting, forking out what’ll likely be nigh-on six figures with a typical option spend might be beyond some family buyers wearing the current cost of living travails.

In all likelihood, this will serve to elevate the ID. Buzz to a polished lifestyle accessory. An ID. Buzz would probably stand out like a sore thumb among the scatter of battered and sun-wrecked Subarus and Toyotas at gnarly surf spots like Bells Beach or Wreck Bay but would fit right in at Balmain or Brunswick.

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And there’s nothing wrong with that. Why wouldn’t gentrification happen to vehicle model lines as well as neighbourhoods?

It deserves success. Volkswagen Australia should be applauded for throwing the kitchen sink at making buying an EV as painless as possible and it appears to have learned a number of lessons from the European mothership’s first tranche of electric products that sucked up huge investment but didn’t hit the spot with consumers.

The company is older and wiser. And, if public interest while driving the ID. Buzz is anything to go by, once again able to paint a smile on peoples’ faces. It’s hard to put a value on that.

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The latest in Maserati’s growing line of powerhouse heroes will make its way to Australia in 2025, with the track-focused GT2 Stradale opening at $699,000.

At its heart, the GT2 Stradale is powered by Maserati’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6, boosted from the MC20‘s 463kW to a new 471kW, and matched to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the rear wheels. Peak torque is listed at 720Nm, available between 3000 and 5500rpm.

On the scales, Maserati claims a 59kg drop in kerb weight to 1365kg. Contributing to the weight loss are a new carbon-ceramic brake package (-17kg), lighter wheels (-18kg) and racing seats (-20kg), along with a carbon-fibre exterior package (-5kg) and reduced interior sound insulation (-4.5kg).

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Aero includes a new adjustable wing that, although 8kg heavier than the MC20’s unit, increases rear downforce from 110kg to 170kg at 280km/h. At the same speed, front downforce increases from 35kg to 130kg.

Performance claims have the GT2 Stradale hitting 100km/h in 2.8 seconds –shaving 0.1 seconds off the MC20’s time – with a top speed of 324km/h. It rides on 245/35 R20 front and 305/30 R20 rubber.

Key features of the GT2 Stradale include a carbon-fibre bonnet with enlarged cooling vents, lightweight polycarbonate side windows, race-spec suspension, and a full track telemetry system.

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Maserati lists the following highlights for the GT2 Stradale

• Race-calibrated eight-speed dual-clutch transmission
• Three-position adjustable rear wing
• Carbon ceramic brake package
• Carbon-fibre racing seats
• Enhanced engine and brake cooling systems
• Modified brake pedal response for circuit use
• Dashboard-mounted shift light indicator
• Track-specific anti-lock brake calibration
• Adjustable traction control and differential settings
• Built-in performance data logger
• Race-specification suspension setup
• Carbon-fibre hood with enlarged cooling vents
• Lightweight polycarbonate side windows
• Carbon-fibre exterior package
• Reduced interior sound insulation
• Lightweight alloy wheels

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Australian-delivered cars will also come standard with some items reserved in Europe for the optional performance pack: Corsa Evo driving mode, Michelin semi-slicks, and a fire extinguisher.

Four standard colours will be offered – black, blue, yellow and white – with custom options available. Brake caliper options include black, red, silver, yellow and blue.

First Australian deliveries are scheduled for late 2025.