After joining the Touring Car Racing (TCR) World Tour for production-based vehicles in 2017, Korean maker Hyundai has honed its motorsport experience to reveal a special edition i30 Sedan N TCR Edition.

The high-performance sedan, which will launch in South Korea first this December before expanding to global markets during 2025, will sport new interior and exterior features inspired by Hyundai Motor’s TCR World Tour racers.

1

That inspiration includes a Carbon Swan Neck Spoiler, with adjustable downforce settings to suit driving conditions and preferences, as well as highly rigid, lightweight 19-inch N TCR forged wheels and N Performance four-piston, monoblock brakes as standard.

An Alcantara steering wheel with a Performance Blue top marker, Performance Blue seat belts and exclusive TCR Edition badging also reference its race cars. “Hyundai Motor has incorporated the experience and expertise accumulated in motorsports into i30 Sedan N TCR Edition,” said Joon Park, Vice President of N Brand Management Group.

“We will continue to enhance the DNA of Hyundai N, so that N-thusiasts can experience the thrill of motorsports in their daily lives.”

Hyundai has notched multiple race and championship victories since it started to compete in the TCR.

1

The updated 2025 Lexus ES has debuted with a styling and tech upgrade to keep it competitive with key rivals in the premium sedan space.

The refreshed large sedan was unveiled in China this week, just as the original form of this seventh-generation XZ10 body was back in 2018 — and then again for its first update in 2021. (That update reached Australia in 2022.)

Australian timing for this updated model hasn’t been confirmed, but with our local model made in the same Japanese factory that makes China’s car, there should be few barriers to its introduction here.

This time around, the 2025 Lexus ES gets an updated grille with new silver accents in a horizontal, gradated design that becomes more sparsely dramatic as it flows towards the bottom of the classic Lexus ‘spindle’.

Although not identical, a similar look features on the brand-new LBX small SUV, albeit with a more conventional honeycomb pattern.

1

The headlights retain their existing shape but with a new and more imposing LED signature, with a similar theme applied at the rear for a more bold look to the red driving and brake lights.

Inside, the 2025 ES sedan is upgraded to the same 14.0-inch main display featured in other new Lexus models, replacing the more letterbox-oriented 12.3-inch screen of the outgoing model.

That change comes with redesigned air-conditioning controls, with new chrome-ringed temperature and fan dials integrated into the display panel, with vents now running along the bottom edge of the centre stack.

In its current, 2022-updated form, the ES features Lexus’s Connected Services remote connectivity system, adding SOS calls with automated collision alerts to emergency services, stolen vehicle tracking, and vehicle system settings accessible via the driver’s phone.

Safety carries over with the 2022-improved camera and millimetre-wave radar systems, enabling detection of cyclists in daylight and pedestrians in low-light conditions. Lexus has not indicated any changes to this technology for the 2025 model.

In Australia, the ES is currently offered two powertrains: the naturally aspirated 152kW/243Nm ES 250, and the 160kW ES 300h hybrid.

1

This is the ES’s second update, when will we see a new-gen model?

Lexus usually moves to a new generation after five to six years of a given model’s life cycle, but this facelift will likely take the seventh-gen ES through to at least 2026.

Little is known about the next, eighth-generation ES, although we could see it debut with looks and tech inspired by this electric LF-ZC concept unveiled in late 2023.

The LF-ZC concept is closer to the midsize IS sedan no longer sold in Australia, but its circa-900km (claimed) electric driving range should be just as good for any future ES EV.

1

👆 Of course, we’d be equally keen to see the future ES take its styling cues from these concepts unveiled in late 2021.

Especially those wagon-looking ones…

Read more about the LF-ZC and all electric Lexus models below

MG is capitalising on the popularity in Australia of its best-selling ZS compact SUV range with the introduction of the new MG ZS HYBRID+, pairing a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a dynamic 100kW/250Nm electric motor.

“Australian motorists have fallen in love with the ZS in recent years,” said MG Motor Australia and New Zealand CEO Peter Ciao. “This is an exciting time for MG Motor Australia as we continue to update and grow our model range.

“After our MG3 HYBRID+ launch earlier this year, MG is pursuing its strategy of bringing value packed innovative hybrid technology across its entire range with the ZS.

“This full hybrid engine provides a smooth electric drive and ensures driving range is maximised in all circumstances, with direct and instantaneous acceleration. Thanks to this combination, the new ZS HYBRID+ demonstrates maximum versatility and adapts to all urban and road uses.”

1

Model variants and pricing

The ZS HYBRID+ is available in two variants: the entry-level ZS HYBRID+ Excite is priced from $33,990 (DAP/MSRP) and the top-spec ZS HYBRID+ Essence is priced from $36,990 (DAP/MSRP).

Powertrain and performance

The ZS HYBRID+ combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with a dynamic 100kW/250Nm electric motor, paired with a 1.83kWh NMC battery and a three-speed optimised hybrid automatic transmission.

MG says the battery is one of the largest full-hybrid batteries in the segment. This set-up produces 158kW of maximum combined power and delivers combined average fuel consumption of 4.7L/100km.

There are eight dynamic propulsion modes on offer, the electronic control unit adapting to the current driving conditions in real time to expertly balance power with efficiency. For stop-start city driving, the electric motor provides an eco-friendly drive with the combustion engine only kicking in as battery power drains. It then recharges the battery while keeping the engine at the optimal RPM.

1

1

Upgraded exterior and interior design

MG has introduced a modernised design seen in other recent releases such as MG4, MG3, HS and Cyberster.

That’s noticeable from the exterior, the MG ZS HYBRID+ measuring 4430mm long and 1635mm high for a distinctive and striking profile.

The cabin in both variants has been upgraded to provide optimum comfort and at-the-fingertips tech. The higher spec Essence trim delivers an electronic panoramic sunroof, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and PVC seats including 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and manual driver lumbar support.

Both variants feature a 12.3-inch landscape-mounted infotainment system, equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, complemented by a full 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Boot space is a generous 443 litres, expanding to 1457 litres with the rear seats folded.

1

Driver assistance systems

Both variants of the MG ZS HYBRID+ come equipped with advanced safety features, including a high-definition 360-degree camera and comprehensive MG PILOT Safety suite.

It includes: Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, Intelligent Cruise Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.

ZS HYBRID+ also comes with 12-months complimentary access to MG iSMART Connected services. Via the iSMART APP, remote access allows an owner to check fuel tank level, tyre pressures and battery voltages, remotely lock and unlock the doors without a key, and use Find My Car to remember where you parked in that side street.

14

With purchase of the MG ZS HYBRID+ comes the company’s industry-leading 10-year/250,000km warranty.

Deliveries of the all-new ZS HYBRID+ commence immediately.

Is it weird that Subaru has never returned to the ute game? We reckon it is.

The old Subaru Brumby is fondly remembered immensely well regarded here in Australia, and our mate Theo has taken a few swings at imagining how a new generation of it might look.

Most recently (above), he’s turned the new small Impreza hatch into a unibody Brumby, just as it should be, along with a bigger Forester-based version that could really go either way: Brumby or… Baja.

Now, Theo’s pushed the Baja idea further with his most unique effort yet, creating a bespoke full-size Subaru Baja ute with a proper ladder-frame cab-chassis body.

Check it out below!

1

You can easily imagine this new Baja ute sharing its architecture with the next-generation Toyota HiLux, just as the Isuzu D-Max and Mazda BT-50 are related, as are the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok.

Will it happen, though? It’s unlikely, given Subaru’s generally smaller scale and overall family focus, but it could nonetheless be a fruitful and affordable approach to entering the competitive ute market.

After all, there’s already the Subaru BRZ, which is closely tied to the Toyota GR86 across two generations of the two-door sports car, along with the related Solterra and BZ4x EVs.

1

A HiLux-based Subaru ute would be unlikely to have much of the iconic quirky character that Brumby and Baja fans have loved, but it could prove a welcome sales booster for the star-badged brand.

Of course… it might only take a paint job and some silver cladding to sort that out…

1

2

Catch our earlier coverage at the links littered through this story.

The new-generation MG HS and the battery-electric Chery Omoda E5 have both received five-star safety ratings from ANCAP, the independent safety organisation.

The results come as part of the latest round of testing under ANCAP’s updated protocols.

MG HS scores high across multiple safety categories

The new MG HS secured a five-star rating after being tested against ANCAP’s most recent criteria, which have seen even stricter updates since the previous HS was assessed.

The MG HS achieved a 90% score in Adult Occupant Protection, with full marks awarded in side impact, oblique pole, whiplash protection, and far-side impact tests. For Child Occupant Protection, the HS achieved 87%, with all critical body areas receiving a ‘GOOD’ protection rating.

In the category of Vulnerable Road User Protection, the MG HS scored 83%. The results reflect strong pedestrian impact performance, particularly for femur, knee, and tibia regions.

The SUV’s autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system performed well, especially in scenarios involving motorcycles, where it received full points. The MG HS also features an AEB Backover system for detecting pedestrians while reversing, although its performance in this area was rated as only ‘Marginal.’

Chery Omoda E5 extends five-star rating to electric variant

The Chery Omoda E5, the battery-electric variant of the Omoda 5, has also achieved a five-star safety rating.

This result builds upon the rating already awarded to petrol versions of the Omoda 5 in 2022.

To verify the electric model’s performance, ANCAP conducted additional tests, including frontal offset and oblique pole crash assessments, confirming the safety of the vehicle’s high-voltage battery and structural integrity.

ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg acknowledged the significance of the ratings, noting the alignment with stringent, updated testing standards. She highlighted the investment made by manufacturers in maintaining high safety levels, despite evolving criteria.

Full report

The full report for both cars can be found here on ANCAP’s website: MG HS & Chery Omoda 5 (including E5).

Galleries

MG HS

20

Chery Omoda E5

12

If you’re looking forward to the new generation MG ZS EV, then you’ll have to get used to a new name: MG ES5.

The 2025 MG ES5 is the indirect replacement for the brand’s all-electric small SUV and heralds a raft of changes compared to what’s come before it.

Whereas the current MG ZS EV essentially just replaces the regular model’s petrol engine with a battery pack, the ES5 is based on the same Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that underpins the MG4 hatch.

1

Power and Range

While the MG ES5 borrows its 125kW/250Nm rear motor (making it rear-wheel drive rather than front-drive like the ZS EV) and lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry from its cheaper MG4 sibling, the battery sizes differ.

Whereas the MG4 is offered with a 51kWh or 64kWh battery pack, ES5 buyers can choose between 49.1kWh or 62.2kWh options.

Measuring just 110mm in height, the batteries, developed by MG’s parent company SAIC in conjunction with CATL, are some of the thinnest in the industry.

1

Using China’s very generous CLTC testing standard, the smaller battery offers 425km of range, while the larger pack increases this to 515-525km depending on whether the vehicle is fitted with 17- or 18-inch wheels.

Expect the more stringent WLTP figures to be around 20 per cent lower than this.

It’s unclear whether the ES5 will be offered with more powerful motors like the MG4, which can be had with 150kW/250Nm or 180kW/350Nm, but even the standard car can hit 100km/h in 8.0sec and cruise to a 170km/h top speed.

1

Dimensions

The MG ES5 is a decidedly larger car than the ZS EV, almost straddling the small and medium SUV segments.

At 4476mm long, 1849mm wide and 1621mm tall with a 2730mm wheelbase, the ES5 is 153mm longer, 40mm wider and 4mm lower than the ZS, with an extra 145mm of wheelbase.

By way of comparison, the current ZS’s closest competitor in the small SUV class, the Hyundai Kona, measures 4350mm long, 1825mm wide, and 1585mm tall with a 2660mm wheelbase. This will make the ES5 one of the largest vehicles in its class.

1

Safety and Assistance

Exact specifications for the MG ES5 have not yet been announced, but with the company targeting a five-star Euro NCAP score we’d expected the MG Pilot active safety system to be included in its entirety.

This features adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, forward collision warning and traffic jam assist.

Rear parking sensors are also standard and you can expect a reversing camera on all variants, with higher specs likely to have a 360-degree camera.

3

Pricing and Features

We’re left to speculate on the MG ES5’s specifications, but plenty of equipment is visible on the (presumably high-spec) press images, including 18-inch wheels, LED lighting front and rear, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof.

Inside, there’s the familiar combination of a large central infotainment touchscreen with a smaller digital instrument display ahead of the driver, with a wireless charging pad, leather-style upholstery and plenty of interior storage also visible.

1

Pinpointing a price for the ES5 is difficult, due to MG’s incredibly aggressive recent pricing manoeuvres.

It slashed up to $8700 from the base MG ZS EV in August, dropping it to $34,990 driveaway nationwide, while the Essence and Long Range were cut to $41,990 and $46,990 respectively.

However, this is before MG took a samurai sword to MG4 prices, briefly dropping the entry price of $30,990 driveaway. Regardless, it will be covered by MG’s recently announced 10-year/250,000km warranty.

When will the MG ES5 electric SUV come to Australia?

Local timing for the ES5 hasn’t been made official yet, but an early 2025 launch is expected.

Watch for more official local details, beyond this initial Chinese-market unveiling, to come in the weeks ahead.

1

Audi has revealed a new sub-brand exclusively for the Chinese market, along with the AUDI E concept — an all-electric Sportback crafted to showcase the brand’s direction in the region.

The unveiling marks a significant shift in Audi’s strategy, focusing on bespoke products that cater directly to local preferences and the rapidly growing demand for high-performance electric vehicles (EVs) in China.

1

The AUDI E concept is powered by a dual-motor setup, delivering a combined 570kW and capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in an estimated 3 seconds. (It hasn’t been tested, of course.)

Built on an 800-volt architecture developed in partnership with MG parent SAIC – unrelated to Audi’s own new PPE platform – the concept promises rapid charging capabilities, targeting a driving range of up to 700km.

While Audi (or is that AUDI?) has yet to release specific charging figures, the 800-volt system is designed to support ultra-fast charging, potentially allowing for significant range recovery in just a few minutes.

1

As we cheekily noted above, one of the most notable aspects of the new sub-brand is its departure from Audi’s established four-ring brand and its most recent design themes.

The AUDI E concept features a redesigned front fascia and new badging, moving away from the iconic four-ring emblem in favor of a more minimalist logo.

This change is intended to signify a fresh start for the sub-brand, emphasizing its focus on innovation and appealing directly to China’s tech-savvy audience.

Unique regional branding is uncommon (apart from individual models), but in this case it shows a clear acknowledgement of just how big the Chinese market is and the differences in its buyer attitudes.

2

Audi has confirmed the AUDI E concept is as a precursor to three new electric models, set to launch in China from mid-2025.

These models will be exclusive to the Chinese market and will not be available in other regions, although buyers in the west won’t be short on new Audi EVs to choose from.

The first models from the new sub-brand are expected to begin reaching Chinese showrooms by mid-2025. With this launch, Audi aims to establish a stronger foothold in the Chinese market, leveraging its new sub-brand to cater directly to the country’s appetite for advanced, high-performance electric vehicles.

1

Mild hybrid systems are becoming increasingly popular among all manufacturers, but buyers may not fully understand the key differences between these ‘mild’ systems and the more conventional hybrid options.

By now, most people have a general understanding of, or are at least aware of, hybrid powertrains. But mild hybrid systems differ in that they’re a much simpler and cheaper way to reduce a car’s emissions output.

Mild hybrids, generously referred to as Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEV) offer a practical bridge between traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) and fully electrified powertrains. They provide a sample of electrification without requiring plug-in charging, making them an accessible choice for many drivers.

How mild hybrids work

In a typical mild hybrid system, a small electric motor and a 48-volt battery supplement a petrol or diesel engine.

While full hybrids can operate on electric power alone at low speeds, mild hybrids cannot. Instead, the electric motor assists the engine, reducing fuel consumption and providing extra torque during acceleration. The system also powers certain vehicle functions, such as air conditioning, when the engine is off.

1

Key features of mild hybrid systems

Benefits of mild hybrids

Considerations

1

Audi’s not-so-mild hybrid: MHEV Plus

While most mild hybrids use a single integrated starter-generator (ISG), Audi has taken a different approach with its MHEV Plus system, available in models like the new 2024 Audi A5 diesel and S5 turbo petrol performance model.

This advanced setup adds a second unit, a centrally mounted powertrain generator (PTG), making it unique in the MHEV market.

Enhanced regenerative braking: The MHEV Plus system can recuperate up to 25kW of energy during braking, significantly more than the typical 8kW seen in standard MHEVs.

Boosted torque and quick battery cycling: The system can deliver up to 18kW of power and 230Nm of torque, helping to fill torque gaps at low engine speeds. It also recharges and discharges the battery rapidly, allowing the engine to shut off more frequently.

Reduced reliance on friction brakes: The improved regenerative capability often provides enough deceleration without engaging the disc brakes, reducing wear.

Low-speed manoeuvring and coasting: Audi’s system allows for limited engine-off driving at low speeds and ‘surfing’ at moderate speeds (up to 80km/h) using only electric power.

This dual-generator approach is rare among mild hybrids, making Audi’s system an outlier. It showcases the potential for enhanced efficiency and performance without moving to a full hybrid or plug-in model.

The rise of mild hybrids in Australia

The popularity of mild hybrids is growing in Australia as automakers look for ways to improve fuel efficiency and meet stricter emissions standards.

While typical MHEVs offer incremental gains, innovations like Audi’s MHEV Plus show how the concept can be pushed further, providing features often reserved for more complex hybrid systems.

For buyers seeking improved economy without the need for charging infrastructure, mild hybrids represent a practical compromise.

FAQs

Peugeot has announced the Australian arrival of its new hybrid hatch, the Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid, with a starting price of $48,990 before on-road costs.

The new addition’s arrival comes with sorry news for wagon fans, however, with 308 Touring dropped from the 2025 roster, along with the top-spec 308 GT Premium variant.

The news follows confirmation in September that the French brand has dropped all four of its plug-in hybrid EV models (including the 308 PHEV) and pushed back the local launch of the all-electric E-3008 SUV.

There’s a light on the horizon for EV fans, however, with Peugeot’s Australian distributor confirming an initial ‘Evaluation Experience’ for the small E-308 that will see 14 examples to local buyers with a drive-away price of $65,990.

It remains to be seen if this will also be the asking price of any bigger future rollout, but it’ll have very stiff competition if so.

1

1

On to what buyers can have in the local 308 range:

2025 Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid pricing and features

Pre-orders for the 308 GT Hybrid are now open ahead of the model’s expected launch in the first quarter of 2025.

The Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid features a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine paired with a hybrid electric system. The combined output is rated at 100kW and 230Nm, sent to the front wheels through a six-speed electric dual-clutch automatic gearbox (known by the code e-DCS6).

Along with its 0.9kWh battery, the 308’s hybrid system includes regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration to recharge the battery.

Peugeot claims the 308 GT Hybrid can operate in electric-only mode for “up to 50% of the drive time”, depending as always on driver behaviour and road conditions.

Fuel consumption is listed at a Corolla Hybrid-rivalling 4.2L/100km, and CO2 emissions are listed at 95g/km.

1

Interior and cargo space

The interior features Peugeot’s i-Cockpit, highlighted by a 10-inch configurable digital instrument display and a 10-inch high-definition central touchscreen.

Customisable i-Toggle shortcuts provide quick access to settings such as radio, contacts, and vehicle controls. The cabin includes tri-material Alcantara seats with leather-effect trims, green ‘Adamite’ stitching, and Peugeot GT badging.

Additional comfort features include a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting with eight customisable colours, and a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Air Quality System (AQS) continuously monitors cabin air and filters pollutants.

Equipment highlights

The Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless smartphone charging. The infotainment system features a 360-degree HD camera system, comprising front, rear, and side cameras.

Standard features also include a panoramic opening sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, a smartphone cradle, and four USB ports (two front and two rear).

1

Safety

In its current form, the Peugeot 308 carries a four-star ANCAP safety rating from ANCAP, awarded in 2022.

The 308 GT Hybrid’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) include:

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) with unmarked road edge detection
• Active Lane Following Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function
• Advanced Driver Attention Alert (DAA3)

Warranty

Peugeot offers a standard 5-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty on the 308 GT Hybrid, with additional coverage for the hybrid battery included under this warranty.

1

Colour choices

The 308 GT Hybrid is available in six exterior colours: Obsession Blue (hero colour), Okenite White, Artense Grey, Sellenium Grey, Nera Black, and Elixir Red.

Metallic paint is priced at an extra $690, with the exception of ‘Elixir Red,’ priced at $1050.

Pricing

The Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid is priced from $48,990 (MLP), excluding on-road costs.

Customers can place pre-orders through authorised Peugeot dealers or customise their purchase via Peugeot Australia’s website.

The Zeekr 009 electric family van is now available for pre-order in Australia, following last month’s announcement of the Zeekr X electric SUV.

Priced from $135,900 plus on-road costs, Australian deliveries of the Zeekr 009 will begin in early 2025.

When it arrives, the Zeekr 009 could present as a ‘just right’ option between the LDV Mifa 9 and the luxury-focused Lexus LM, while those preferring a large seven-seat electric SUV could look to the big Kia EV9.

1

1

Driving range and charging capabilities

Available in all-wheel drive exclusively, the Zeekr 009 is driven by dual electric motors delivering 450kW and 693Nm of torque.

Its 116kWh lithium-ion (NCM) battery provides a driving range of up to 582 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle.

DC fast charging can take the battery from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes at up to 205kW, while a full AC charge at 11kW takes approximately 13.5 hours.

The Zeekr 009 is also equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, with a 3.3kW output for powering external devices.

10

Interior and cargo space

The Zeekr 009 offers two configurations: a six-seat (2+2+2) and a seven-seat (2+2+3) layout.

Standard features include Nappa leather and Ultrasuede trim, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions for the first and second-row seats.

1

Boot space

Cargo capacity in the Zeekr 009 varies from 574 litres up to 2979 litres when the rear seats are folded flat.

Additionally, a 29-litre front compartment is provided for smaller items.

1

Equipment

Inside, the Zeekr 009 is equipped with a 15.05-inch OLED main screen, while rear occupants are treated to a 17-inch 3K OLED entertainment display.

The driver’s display is a 10.25-inch Full HD instrument cluster, complemented by a 35.95-inch augmented reality (AR) head-up display.

The audio system boasts 30 Yamaha speakers delivering 3000 watts of output. Connectivity options include wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 5G/WiFi hotspot. As with all new EVs, the 009 also supports over-the-air software updates.

The Zeekr 009 rides on 20-inch alloy wheels with a distinctive Starlight pattern, paired with 265/45 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres. These tyres feature a CO2-neutral compound and sound-dampening foam to reduce road noise by up to 20%.

1

Safety

Safety in the 2025 Zeekr 009 opens with a seven-airbag system, including front-centre and curtain airbags for full-row coverage.

The 009 is also equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX anchors for child seats across the second and third rows.

1

Warranty

The Zeekr 009’s warranty package includes five years of unlimited-kilometre coverage (three years for commercial use) and an eight-year / 160,000-kilometre battery warranty.

Its service interval of two years or 40,000 kilometres is notably less frequent than its rivals, potentially reducing maintenance costs and visits. Roadside assistance is included for five years, matching competitors like Lexus and LDV.

Kia’s EV9 stands out with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty that also covers the battery, alongside seven years of roadside assistance and connected services. This is the most generous offering in the segment, while Lexus and LDV provide similar five-year coverage with shorter service intervals.

1

Options

The 009’s interior can be customised with no-cost options, including Stone Black, two-tone Stone Grey and Polar White, or Midnight Blue and Polar White. The hero tri-tone Jade Green interior finish is also offered without additional cost.

Colour choices

Exterior colours include five options: Crystal White Pearl, Grey Purple Pearl, and Mineral Green Pearl as the hero shade. All paint finishes are provided at no additional cost.

2025 Zeekr 009 pricing for Australia

• Zeekr 009 7-seat AWD: $135,900
• Zeekr 009 6-seat AWD: $139,900
• NOTE: Prices exclude on-road costs