Mercedes-AMG has given Wheels by WhichCar a unique insight into its next high-performance electric car, which will be based on the wild Concept AMG GT XX that recently set several new records.

Due to be revealed next year, the production AMG GT XX will set itself apart in the high performance EV space while satisfying traditional AMG V8 fans because of a “very emotional” connection to the driver that will make it, according to Mercedes-AMG boss Michael Schiebe, “so far ahead of the game”.

There are now a plethora of high-performance electric cars on the market, all quoting very fast acceleration times and some employing fake gear shifting to develop more connection between driver and machine. However, as Schiebe told us during a trip to the recent IAA Mobility show in Munich, the AMG GT XX will go even further in creating an emotional bond between the two to set itself apart from its rivals. That was a decision made very early on in the development of the car and its new platform, which is called ‘AMG.EA’.

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“When it comes to the AMG.EA platform, the development principal was make it an AMG first, and an EV second. It firstly needs to be a high performance car and it needs to be even better for dynamics as customers coming from V8s might be skeptical” he said.

“We also need to make sure that it’s “very emotional” so that when you get into the car, and although it’s an EV, you get feedback from the car because that’s what our customers love about their cars.”

Asked further about how AMG will achieve this emotional bond when compare with rivals, Schiebe said: “We will have certain trigger points in the car which give you feedback. I said to the team “make it the best electric V8 on the market”, so we have a number of measures like simulated gearshifts, a V8 sound and everything will be based off our experience with V8s.”

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Traditionally, the AMG purist is passionate about the V8 engine and its sound, both of which are obviously unavailable in an electric car. But Schiebe says that’s no issue for AMG, thanks to its heritage and being able to hire new people.

“I know that there are others in the market that do the simulated gearshifts, but here I’m talking about the next level because we have the advantage that we hired new talents, including some from the music industry just to get the best sound engineers.”

“We teamed them up with the engineers from the combustion engine team because they have done the application for our existing V8s and they know how to optimise a V8 engine. So with both teams working together, we can carry that sound over to an EV.”

The production version of the Concept AMG GT XX will be revealed sometime in 2026 before a likely 2027 on-sale date.

Solid state battery technology – spruiked by many in the car industry as the next big breakthrough in EVs – is coming but Mercedes-Benz says engineering challenges mean that it may not be available to customers of its products until at least 2030.

The batteries have long been billed as the next frontier in electric vehicles because they are capable of far longer ranges thanks to higher energy density compared with current EV batteries, as well as quicker charging capability and lower manufacturing costs. Mercedes-Benz is not alone in developing solid state batteries for its vehicles – more than one Chinese EV maker have flagged pre-2030 deadlines for implementation – but it is already setting records with it.

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Recently, a Mercedes-Benz EQS prototype fitted with a lithium-metal solid state battery travelled 1205km from Stuttgart in Germany to Malmö in Sweden without stopping to charge and reportedly, there was 137km of range remaining as well.

“The solid-state battery is a true game changer for electric mobility,” Mercedes-Benz Chief Technology Officer Markus Schäfer told Wheels by WhichCar during the recent IAA Mobility Show in Munich.

“With the successful long-distance drive of the EQS, we show that this technology delivers not only in the lab but also on the road. Our goal is to bring innovations like this into series production by the end of the decade and offer our customers a new level of range and comfort” he said.

However, despite its benefits, solid state battery technology is not ready to commercialise and is expensive to develop. Schäfer warned that solid state batteries are one of the toughest engineering challenges currently in new car development.

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“Solid state batteries are one of the toughest engineering challenges I’ve seen because the battery cell swells by 30 per cent when charging. But we got the patents and engineering work done. We have a battery, we have an EQS prototype with the same battery box as a production EQS, and we got 1205km range with 137km range left,” he said.

“So we’ve done it, we assume it’s possible, it drives perfectly and we have taken a big step here for electric vehicles – now we need to research ageing, recycling and so on, those parts of the battery lifecycle that are as yet unknown.”

Asked if Mercedes-Benz had already done the easy or difficult part of solid state batteries, Schäfer replied: “The difficult part is productionising the cell, creating a pack to control the temperature and swelling and suspension and other things. Once those are done, we can then sell them to customers.”

Given the estimated timing by Schäfer, the first solid state batteries in production Mercedes-Benz products will not be on the market before the end of the decade and likely in an electric next-generation S-Class. But it gives hope for EV buyers looking for over 1000km of driving range that the next breakthrough in EV technology is imminent. 

What is a solid-state battery?

In a solid-state battery the liquid or gel electrolyte used in conventional lithium-ion batteries is replaced with a solid material (solectro), facilitating higher energy density, faster charging, and greater safety by eliminating flammable liquid.

Hyundai Motor has laid out an ambitious roadmap for its N performance division, confirming plans to launch seven high-performance models by 2030. Announced during the company’s 2025 CEO Investor Day, the strategy signals Hyundai’s intent to blend traditional driving thrills with the realities of electrification.

The highlight of the announcement is the IONIQ 6 N, a new all-electric sports sedan that will serve as the brand’s performance flagship. Hyundai says the model embodies its belief that electrification and excitement can coexist, combining high-output motors and advanced batteries with engineering focused on endurance and driving feel. Features include three thermal management settings tailored to road and track use, along with N’s trademark sensory technologies designed to replicate the visceral experience of combustion engines.

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Hyundai N’s expansion will not be limited to EVs. Instead, the company will pursue a three-pronged strategy:

• ICE (Internal Combustion) cars for enthusiasts who remain loyal to traditional performance.
• HEVs (Hybrids) that balance efficiency with power.
• EVs that highlight the benefits of instant torque and advanced control systems.

This approach, Hyundai says, ensures there will be an N model for every type of driver. The division’s core philosophy — “Corner Rascal, Everyday Sports Car, and Racetrack Capability” — is being updated with next-generation technology. That includes AI-driven driving modes that adapt to driver and track conditions, sophisticated thermal systems to maintain peak performance, and Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) integration allowing cars to evolve with over-the-air updates.

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The growth plan comes as performance brands grapple with tightening regulations and the industry-wide shift toward electrification. By blending tradition and innovation, Hyundai N aims to carve out a distinctive role in the market. The company has set a target of more than 100,000 global N sales by 2030, a goal that would cement its place among established performance nameplates.

For Hyundai, the IONIQ 6 N is just the start. Whether it’s a hybrid balancing efficiency with punch or a track-ready electric sedan, the brand wants to ensure that enthusiasts can find a performance experience that suits them — proof, it says, that the thrill of driving has a future in every form of propulsion.

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Mitsubishi has unveiled the next-generation Eclipse Cross, an all-electric SUV that forms the centrepiece of its return strategy in Europe. Based on the latest Renault Scenic, the new model strengthens Mitsubishi’s presence in the competitive medium SUV market by giving the brand a much-needed electric contender.

Although mechanically identical to the Scenic, Mitsubishi has made styling changes to give the Eclipse Cross its own identity. At the front, the SUV wears the brand’s Dynamic Shield grille, paired with slim, streak-like daytime-running lights. At the rear, Renault’s tail-lights remain but are now linked by a gloss-black panel that adds visual width. Inside, the changes are more restrained, though diamond-quilted seats add some brand-specific flair. The cabin also retains the Scenic’s high-tech features, including a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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Production is handled by Renault at its Douai plant in northern France. Two battery options are planned: an 87kWh pack offering a range of up to 600km (372 miles), and a smaller 60kWh version expected in 2026. Both variants will expand Mitsubishi’s electric line-up in Europe, where the company has increasingly leaned on Renault-based products such as the ASX (Captur), Colt (Clio) and the forthcoming Grandis (Symbioz).

While the European lineup is now dominated by rebadged models, the Outlander remains Mitsubishi’s only Japanese-built vehicle in the region. The brand had previously withdrawn from the UK market in 2021 before announcing its staged comeback with Renault’s support.

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The Eclipse Cross is yet to be confirmed for Australian buyers. If introduced, the electric SUV would give Mitsubishi a direct rival to popular hybrid and EV options in the medium SUV class, bolstering its offering here through models like the Outlander PHEV.

The 2026 Eclipse Cross represents a major step in Mitsubishi’s transition toward electrification – and potentially signals a broader global strategy that may soon include Australian showrooms.

Ford Australia has lifted the covers on a comprehensive range of factory-engineered accessories and full specifications for the upcoming 2026 Ranger Super Duty, delivering a heavy-duty workhorse that can be tailored for job sites, farms, or off-road adventures.

The new accessories have been engineered and tested in-house by Ford to ensure seamless integration and durability, with each component backed by a five-year warranty when fitted by an authorised dealer. From a purpose-built steel tray to innovative device mounts and adventure-ready hardware, the line-up is designed to maximise the Super Duty’s toughness and versatility.

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Inside, the Ranger Super Duty balances practicality with advanced tech. Hard-wearing vinyl flooring, durable cloth seating, and unique Super Duty branding are paired with a 12-inch SYNC infotainment screen featuring satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and wireless charging. An Integrated Device Mounting System and optional top console mount provide easy, factory-prepared solutions for work equipment or dash cams. Convenience features such as dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, Pro Power Onboard 400W inverter, and a USB port near the rear-view mirror underline its dual role as a comfortable daily driver and rugged work tool.

The Ranger Super Duty brings a full suite of driver-assistance technology, including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Pre-Collision Assist with AEB, a 360-degree camera, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Off-road credentials are equally strong, with selectable drive modes, Trail Control, and Trail Turn Assist included as standard.

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Pricing

A notable addition is customer-controlled DPF regeneration, allowing owners to manage when the vehicle initiates a burn cycle — a key feature for those working in time-sensitive or sensitive environments.

At the centre of the accessory program is a heavy-duty steel tray featuring quick-lock drop-sides, 400kg-rated lashing rings, and flexible bolted construction to reduce chassis stress under heavy loads. A bespoke heavy-duty mount kit, tested extensively at Ford’s proving grounds, ensures the tray can cope with the Super Duty’s payload demands.

Other highlights include an ARB Summit Bull Bar, a discreetly mounted Warn Winch, and modular mounting solutions for devices. Ford will also offer bundled packs tailored to different needs: a Farm Pack with water tank and tool box, a Work Pack for job sites, and an Adventure Pack with winch and rock sliders.

Ford Australia’s Customer Service Division Marketing and Sales Manager, Brad Hogg, said the program underscored the company’s focus on reliability and integration.

“Our new line of Ford Licensed Accessories offers a one-stop solution for customers, ensuring Ranger Super Duty is ready for whatever task or terrain it faces,” he said.

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Ready For Duty Accessory Packs

Tray Packs

Until March 31, customers will receive a toolbox and water tank included with their tray as a celebration of the launch of the new Ranger Super Duty. This offer will end on March 31, 2026.

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Accessory Pricing

Toyota Australia is broadening its hybrid strategy, introducing two distinct systems designed to serve different customer needs: one prioritising efficiency and the other tuned for performance. From early 2026, the technology will appear in Australia in the LandCruiser 300 Series Sahara ZX and GR Sport grades.

For more than two decades, Toyota has been refining its efficiency-focused hybrid technology, first introduced locally in the Prius in 2001. That system, now in its fifth generation, is standard across much of Toyota’s passenger car and SUV lineup, excluding GR performance models.

It combines a petrol engine with multiple electric motor-generators and planetary gears to reduce fuel consumption, lower CO₂ emissions, and improve driveability. In 2024, hybrids accounted for nearly half of Toyota’s total Australian sales, with more than 570,000 hybrid vehicles sold since launch.

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The next step is the introduction of a performance hybrid system, already fitted to the Tundra pickup in overseas markets. This parallel hybrid system pairs a petrol engine with a single electric motor-generator connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Working individually or in tandem, the two power sources deliver instant torque, strong towing capability and smooth, linear acceleration. Under 30 km/h, the system can operate on electric power alone, while at higher speeds it blends both petrol and electric inputs for optimal response.

Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations, Sean Hanley, said the move underlines the brand’s “multi-pathway” approach to powertrains.

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“Customers have embraced the refinement and fuel savings of our efficiency hybrids, and now we are expanding that choice to include a performance hybrid designed for heavier loads, high-speed cruising and greater responsiveness,” he said.

The dual strategy ensures buyers can select a hybrid powertrain matched to their lifestyle — from city-focused hatchbacks and SUVs like the Yaris, Corolla and RAV4 to large-scale vehicles such as the LandCruiser. Pricing for the performance hybrid models has yet to be confirmed.

Toyota also plans to launch its first plug-in hybrid in Australia in 2026 with the next-generation RAV4, further expanding electrified options in its lineup.

Mercedes-Benz Australia has expanded its AMG GT Coupé line-up with the arrival of two new models: the Mercedes-AMG GT 43 and the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+. The additions aim to cater to both drivers seeking refined agility and enthusiasts craving race-ready performance.

At the entry point sits the AMG GT 43, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 kW and 500 Nm. It sprints from 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and tops out at 280 km/h. A key innovation is its electric exhaust gas turbocharger, derived from Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 technology, which ensures instant throttle response across the rev range by pre-spooling the turbo electronically before exhaust gases take over.

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Rear-wheel drive underpins a purist handling character, while a 48-volt mild-hybrid system can deliver an extra 10 kW and supports functions such as coasting and energy recuperation. AMG RIDE CONTROL adaptive suspension, a digital cockpit with an 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment system, and practical 2+2 seating with up to 675 litres of luggage space highlight its balance of performance and usability.

The Australian-spec GT 43 also comes standard with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package, which adds features like an electronic rear-axle locking differential, dynamic engine mounts, and yellow-painted AMG brake calipers.

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At the other end of the spectrum, the AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ (below) builds on the already formidable GT 63. Its 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine now produces 450 kW and 850 Nm, trimming its 0–200 km/h time to 10.9 seconds and achieving a top speed of 317 km/h.

The PRO variant benefits from extensive chassis and aerodynamic refinements, including ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL with active roll stabilisation, standard rear-axle steering, and a revised aero package with carbon-fibre air deflectors and a fixed rear wing. Together, these features reduce aerodynamic lift on the front axle by more than 30 kilograms and increase rear downforce by around 15 kilograms.

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Inside, the GT 63 PRO features AMG Performance seats, a carbon-fibre interior package, and AMG-specific displays, while exterior details include 21-inch forged wheels and AMG’s ceramic composite braking system with 420 mm front discs.

The Mercedes-AMG GT 43 is priced at $249,900 (MRLP), while the GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ comes in at $418,900 (MRLP). Both models are available to order through authorised Mercedes-AMG retailers or online from September 18, 2025.

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Mercedes-Benz Australia has broadened its Edition R portfolio, adding the GLE 53 SUV and Coupé to the line-up. Following the successful introduction of Edition R variants on the AMG C 43, GLC 43 and selected compact models, the latest additions are engineered to combine dynamic performance with bold design elements, delivering a distinctive additional pathway into the AMG brand.

At the heart of the GLE 53 Edition R lies AMG’s acclaimed 3.0-litre inline-six, enhanced with electrified technology to produce 320 kW of power and 560 Nm of torque. This performance is further sharpened by the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package, which incorporates AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL active roll stabilisation and a high-performance composite braking system.

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The brakes feature red-painted calipers with black AMG lettering, measuring 400 x 38 mm at the front and 370 x 32 mm at the rear, enhancing the SUV’s road presence.

Visually, the Edition R makes an immediate impression. Striking 22-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels finished in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange set the tone, while optional MANUFAKTUR paint finishes further elevate exclusivity. Inside, performance-inspired cues continue with brushed aluminium trim, red seatbelts, and the AMG Performance steering wheel trimmed in nappa leather and MICROCUT microfibre. The SUV variant features ARTICO man-made leather with red stitching, while the Coupé retains its hallmark black AMG nappa leather upholstery.

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The combination of AMG-engineered power and distinctive styling positions the Edition R treatment of the GLE 53 SUV (top) and Coupé (above) as bold statements of AMG identity.

Pricing for the GLE 53 Edition R SUV begins at $184,100 (MRLP), while the Coupé starts at $188,100 (MRLP), reaffirming their place in the premium performance SUV segment.

Škoda is accelerating its electric vehicle offensive in Australia, unveiling the all-new Elroq 60 Select alongside the refreshed Enyaq 60 and 85 large SUVs. Together, the new models offer local buyers a broader choice of European-designed electric SUVs.

The Elroq 60 Select is Škoda’s newest medium SUV, joining the Elroq 85 Select and Elroq 130 Years Edition in showrooms from November. With prices starting at $47,990 RRP ($49,990 drive-away), the Elroq 60 Select undercuts many rivals while offering a compelling package of performance, practicality and smart features.

Under the bonnet, the Elroq 60 Select employs a 150kW/310Nm rear-wheel-drive system capable of 0–100km/h in 8.0 seconds. A 63kWh battery provides 395km WLTP combined range and up to 504km in urban cycles, supported by 165kW DC fast charging and 11kW AC charging.

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Standard equipment is extensive, including LED headlights, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, a 13-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Škoda’s full suite of active safety and driver assistance systems. Clever touches such as door-mounted umbrellas, rear-seat tablet holders and adjustable cargo solutions reinforce the brand’s reputation for practical design.

Buyers can add 20-inch wheels for $1,000 or a $6,000 Signature Pack, which bundles a head-up display with augmented reality, Matrix LED headlights, premium Canton audio, surround-view cameras, and massage seats.

Meanwhile, the larger Enyaq SUV builds on the Elroq’s value-focused pitch with greater space, performance and refinement. Priced from $50,990 RRP ($54,990 drive-away), the Enyaq 60 Select delivers a 150kW/310Nm output, 0–100km/h in 8.1 seconds and a 410km WLTP range. Standard gear includes a powered tailgate, tri-zone climate control, heated front seats, a 13-inch display and a seven-airbag safety suite.

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The Enyaq 85 Sportline lifts performance to 210kW and 545Nm, slashing the 0–100km/h sprint to 6.7 seconds and extending range to 547km WLTP. It also gains progressive steering, heated rear seats, massage front seats, and a sportier interior trimmed in leather and Suedia. Buyers can further enhance the package with the $5,000 Ultimate Pack, adding adaptive chassis control, Canton audio, head-up display and 21-inch alloy wheels.

At the top of the line sits the Enyaq Coupe 85 Sportline, priced from $65,990 RRP ($68,990 drive-away). It offers a panoramic glass roof, the longest range in the line-up at 561km WLTP, and the highest specification, with all key luxury and technology features included.

All Škoda EVs are backed by a 7-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, plus a Guaranteed Future Value program and finance offers from 7.99% per annum.

With both the Elroq and Enyaq, Škoda is targeting one of the most competitive EV markets in the world with an emphasis on blending European engineering, cutting-edge tech, and value pricing. The Elroq is aimed at buyers seeking a practical, mid-sized SUV under $50,000, while the Enyaq delivers family-friendly space and longer range without sacrificing performance.

Škoda expects both models to become key players in its Australian electrification strategy as more buyers transition to battery-powered vehicles. The Elroq 60 Select will be available from November, while the updated Enyaq range is already arriving in dealerships.

MG Motor has officially confirmed pricing and specification for the all-new MG U9 ute during its local launch, marking the brand’s long-awaited entry into one of Australia’s most competitive segments.

Available in three variants – Explore, Explore X and Explore Pro – the U9 will launch locally from $52,990 drive-away, while the mid-tier Explore X is priced at $55,990 drive-away and the flagship Explore Pro tops the range at $60,990 drive-away.

Unveiling the model in Australia, MG Motor Australia managing director Peter Ciao said the U9 represents a turning point for the brand.

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“Many of you have witnessed my journey leading MG from zero to a top-ten brand in Australia and New Zealand. That story enters a new chapter today. From this moment, the era of MG only making small cars is over,” he said.

It’s a bold statement reflective of where the brand currently sits in the Australian new car market. MG has appealed to Australian buyers with a strong value proposition, long lists of standard features, aggressive pricing and a long warranty – but only in segments that aren’t quite as pivotal as the dual-cab segment. Was an MG-badged dual-cab always part of the plan? Or is it an admission that the brand needs such a vehicle to take the next leap up the sales charts?

Ciao is rightly strong on what the U9 can do for MG in a market that has shown Australians will buy dual cabs from competition brands. Strong sales from the likes of GWM, LDV and BYD in a segment once weighed down by heritage is proof Australians will look to alternatives, and Ciao is adamant that MG has a contender on its hands.

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“Today we present a truly large vehicle, this 5.5m long MG U9,” he said. “This brand new ute marks a major milestone for MG. We know that a ute is not just a car, it signifies your freedom and your lifestyle and with the arrival of the MG U9, we enter the iconic ute segment.”

Ciao went on to explain that MG knows this segment is about more than just transport, certainly in 2025, where the dual cab has come to define driveways in family homes all over the country, moving well beyond its work horse origins.

MG reckons the U9 will attack the segment with a different approach though, featuring a few party tricks we’ve never seen before (like the drop down tailgate and foldable rear bulkhead), the aggressive pricing we’d expect, and up to date cabin technology.

“This is a different ute,” Ciao said. “We are the next generation, created not just to meet the driver’s needs, but to exceed their expectation. A perfect blend of comfort and ability, and we will set a new standard.” According to Ciao, part of that ‘new standard’ revolves around the expected ride quality
that comes from a coil spring – rather than leaf – rear end.

“For a long time, ute owners have had to endure a rough ride from leaf spring suspension,” Ciao said. “MG U9 changes that. Our independent multi-link rear suspension delivers comfort, and pleasure, while innovations like the rear seat design, and tail gate, make this different from any other ute.”

While the complex rear bulkhead arrangement and step down tailgate are optional equipment on the top-spec model, the rear suspension system is standard across the range. Like KGM with the Musso before it, and Nissan with the Navara, it’s a bold move away from tradition, less focused on heavy payloads and more reflective of the way most high-end dual cab buyers use their vehicles.

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For MG Motor Business Director, Kevin Gannon, success is something the brand won’t try to claim too soon. “We won’t be claiming sales targets and volume,” Gannon said. “In 12 months time, we’ll get a better understanding of where the U9 sits. “Buyers will come from SUVs and other dual cabs as well, it’s a big segment and a market that continues to grow.”

“Pricing is right for the market, and the key features of the vehicle will appeal,” Gannon said.

Measuring more than 5.5 metres long, the U9 is a full-sized dual-cab designed to compete head-on with established rivals like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger. It is powered by a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine producing 160kW and 480Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and selectable four-wheel drive. Braked towing capacity is rated at 3,500kg, with a payload exceeding 1,000kg depending on variant.

Inside, buyers can expect a tech-laden cabin, with higher grades offering a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone mirroring, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-assisted tailgate. Safety is also a priority, with a suite including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.

Ciao described the U9 as a vehicle designed not just for work, but to embody adventure and lifestyle.

“Owning a ute is more than transport. It’s freedom, exploration and lifestyle. With the arrival of U9, MG proudly joins that story,” he said.

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