October: Zeekr X now on sale in Australia

The first Australia-bound model from Geely’s Zeekr brand, the Zeekr X electric SUV, is now available from $56,900 before on-road costs.

August: Zeekr X makes Australian debut

The all-electric Zeekr X has been officially unveiled ahead of its local launch, marking the brand’s first entry into the Australian market.

Classed as a compact lifestyle SUV, the Zeekr X will be the first of two new models introduced to Australia in 2024, with a luxury MPV dubbed Zeekr 009 expected by the end of the year.

The Zeekr X will be available to pre-order in September, with the Australian launch to follow in October. Customer deliveries will begin following the vehicle’s official launch.

1

The Zeekr X – available in RWD and AWD – is powered by a 66kWh lithium-ion battery that can deliver a claimed range of up to 540km (in single-motor, RWD models) or 470km (AWD models). Packaged beneath the floor of the vehicle to liberate space in the cabin, the battery is covered by an eight-year/160,000 km warranty.

Its 150kW DC charging is capable of replenishing the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes; while a 7.2kW AC on-board charger can fully charge the battery in a RWD model from empty in about seven hours (AWD models have an 11kW AC charger).

1

“Zeekr’s expansion into the Australian market brings our innovative and cutting-edge electric vehicles to a new audience, offering a unique driving experience that blends style, performance, and sustainability,” said Connal Yan, Managing Director of Zeekr Australia.

“By selecting SXSW Sydney as the stage for our launch, Zeekr is demonstrating its commitment to innovation, showcasing our products to a global audience, and setting the foundation for a future of limitless possibilities in sustainable mobility.”

RWD model

AWD model adds

Standard features

Optional features

Pricing for the Zeekr X has yet to be established, but Zeekr is in the process of collecting expressions of interest via its website.

UPDATE, October: Zeekr X now on sale in Australia

The first Australia-bound model from Geely’s Zeekr brand, the Zeekr X electric SUV, is now available from $56,900 before on-road costs.

The Eclipse Cross made its debut on our shores in early 2018, joining the local compact SUV market.

Manufactured by the Japanese automaker Mitsubishi, the Eclipse Cross provides seating for five individuals, offering a bit more space than its predecessor, the Mitsubishi ASX. Fast forward to 2024, the Eclipse Cross has undergone a minor price adjustment and received some additional features, enhancing the LS variant just above the entry-level trim.

Pricing and features

The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LS is priced at $34,740 before on-road costs for two-wheel drive variants. All-wheel LS variants drives add $2500.

It is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine generating 100kW and 240Nm, and its combined fuel economy is quoted at 7.3L/100km.

Equipped with a continuously-variable automatic transmission as standard, the Eclipse Cross LS offers the option of front- or all-wheel drive.

2

Features

The Eclipse Cross comes with a decent amount of standard spec, including the following key features ?

1

Safety

The current status of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with ANCAP is ‘unrated’. Previously, it attained a five-star ANCAP rating following testing conducted in 2017, which expired in 2023.

Across all variants, seven airbags are included as standard, comprising dual front, side, curtain, and driver’s knee airbags.

Active safety features encompass autonomous emergency braking for both vehicles and pedestrians, a reversing camera, lane-departure warning, rear parking sensors, and an emergency stop signal.

Additional safety features such as blind spot monitors, rear-cross traffic alert, automatic high beam, and lane-change assist are available in this LS variant.

Key rivals

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LS competes against other successful nameplates in the small SUV:

• Mazda CX-30
• MG ZST
• GWM Haval Jolion
• Hyundai Kona
• Nissan Qashqai
• Kia Seltos
• Toyota C-HR

2

Should I put it on my shortlist?

Recognising the potential within the small SUV market and building on its achievements with the ASX, Mitsubishi aimed to introduce a sportier option with a strong emphasis on style.

In 2024, the Eclipse Cross LS demonstrates its distinct place among competitors. It’s a vehicle that seamlessly integrates into your lifestyle, providing precisely what you require. While it may not excel in any particular aspect, it effectively fulfils various roles.

Chery Australia has confirmed the specifications for its electrified Omoda E5, but pricing is still to be determined.

Chery’s first-ever all-electric vehicle will be available in two variants: a base-spec BX and a top-spec EX. However, even the entry-level model departs showrooms with a generous level of equipment including dual 12.3-inch screens, 18-inch alloy wheels, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 50W wireless phone charger.

The EX then adds an eight-speaker Sony sound system, a powered sunroof, black synthetic leather seats (heated front and rear), and ambient lighting – plus plenty more listed here ?

Specs

4

Both the BX and EX are powered by a 150kW/340Nm single electric motor that drives the front wheels. The E5 has a range of up to 430km; can be charged from 30 to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes via a DC fast charger; and has a claimed 0-100km/h time of 7.6 seconds. The E5 will also come with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control (ACC), autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane keeping assistance (LKA).

“We’re thrilled to introduce our first electric vehicle, a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability,” said Lewis Lu, CEO of Chery Australia. “We’re proud to offer a vehicle that not only delivers outstanding performance and range but also helps reduce our carbon footprint. This launch is a significant milestone in our journey towards a greener and more sustainable future,” he added.

1

Chery backs its E5 with a generous seven-year / unlimited kilometre warranty, as well as seven years of capped price servicing and up to seven years of roadside assistance. The battery is covered by an eight-year / unlimited kilometre warranty.

Pricing will be revealed closer to the vehicle’s launch in September this year, where it will debut alongside the petrol-powered Omoda 5, TIGGO 7 Pro and TIGGO 8 Pro Max.

Australians buy more SUVs than any other type of vehicle; and within the showroom shootout, it’s Medium SUVs that outsell the rest.

While petrol power still dominates (but is on the decline), sales of hybrid vehicles were up 88% in July 2024 compared to the same time last year! PHEV sales also grew from 965 (July 2023) to 2209 (July 2024), an increase of 1244 sales or +128.9 per cent.

So, here are the plug-in hybrids set for local showrooms in 2024 and beyond ?

1

Jump Ahead

• Citroen C5 X Plug-in Hybrid
• Jeep Compass 4xe
• Jeep Compass eHybrid
• Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
• Mazda CX-5 PHEV
• MG HS PHEV
• Nissan Qashqai e-Power
• Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E
• Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid

1

Citroen C5 X PHEV

Part sedan, part wagon, part SUV – the C5 X plug-in hybrid was confirmed for Australia when the petrol version arrived here in late 2022 and will be in local showrooms before the end of 2024.

The ‘avant-garde’ body design sits on a 2785mm wheelbase for a 545L boot area in petrol versions – expandable to 1640L to the roof with the rear seats folded – but based on overseas specs, the hybrid unit reduces that by 60 litres.

It uses the same 133kW/250Nm 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine eight-speed auto but adds an 80kW electric motor and 11.9kWh battery – with a 50km range under electric power.

? Back to top

1

Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

What does the Hyundai Tucson have in common with the Porsche 911? Both are getting hybrid models as part of a mid-life facelift.

The mid-size Tucson will use the same 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor package to take on the dominant Toyota RAV4 Hybrid in the showroom shootout.

Hyundai Australia is yet to confirm which trim levels the hybrid will be offered on, with front- and all-wheel drive versions available overseas, with a best official combined fuel number of 5.9L/100km for the front-drive model.

Fingers crossed it comes on the new N-Line trim level announced with the new model which arrives in the third quarter of 2024.

? Back to top

1

Jeep Compass 4xe

The Jeep Compass 4xe (pronounced “four times e”) adds a proper plug-in hybrid alongside the mild hybrid Compass.

The all-wheel drive 4xe plug-in hybrid combines a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with six-speed auto and electric motor for a 176kW/270Nm combined output.

Electric only range from the 11.4kWh battery is a (very specific) claimed 43.7 km, fuel economy of 2.1L/100km and the same cabin space as the mild-hybrid (badged the Compass ‘eHybrid’).

Its 483L boot space is considerably smaller than many rivals’ including the Ford Escape PHEV (566L), but on par with the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV’s 478L.

With arrivals “late this year (2024)”, two equipment levels have been confirmed for Australia – the Limited and Summit – priced at $61,990 and $69,990 before on-road costs respectively.

? Back to top

1

Jeep Compass eHybrid

The new Compass eHybrid is a ‘mild hybrid’ sits below the plug-in Compass 4xe, with both due in local showrooms by the end of 2024.

The front-wheel drive Compass eHybrid – denoted ‘eTorque’ badging – doesn’t have an electric motor, but uses a 48V battery pack for low-speed driving such as parking. The rest of the time it relies on its 96kW/240Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Fuel economy is a claimed 5.1L/100km with the same cargo space as both the 4Xe and

Jeep Australia has confirmed the eHybrid Limited will be $45,990 plus on-road costs with the eHybrid Summit $54,990.

? Back to top

1

Mazda CX-5 PHEV

The next CX-5 is a landmark vehicle for Mazda Australia as the second generation of its best seller will include a plug-in hybrid EV for the first time.

In a bold move, it won’t be Toyota-powered despite a tie-up between the companies, with Toyota owning a five percent stake in Mazda. The CX-50 SUV, sold in China and the US, uses the Toyota RAV4 hybrid powertrain, but the next CX-5 will instead use the first in-house Mazda-developed plug-in set-up.

That’s all Mazda has confirmed for now, with scant information on the hybrid set-up, so watch this space as the CX-5 hybrid inches closer to Australian showrooms – and driveways.

? Back to top

1

Mercedes-AMG GLC63 S E

Ditching V8 power after decades of guttural, grunty engines continues at AMG, with the flagship performance GLC S E Performance SUV now a hi-po hybrid.

Running a 350kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a battery pack and pair of 75kW electric motors delivers a healthy 500kW total, and while there’s 2.3 tonnes to move, our first drive overseas found it was more agile and talented than the stats suggest.

Somewhat a technological wonder, it’s pricey, though, starting at $192,900 (or $199,500 for the Coupe). It’s on sale now.

? Back to top

1

MG HS PHEV

Booked in for its Australian debut by the end of 2024, the MG HS is an all-new generation based on the Chinese-market Roewe RX5.

Dubbed eRX5 in plug-in hybrid from, the donor model brings the same size 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the outgoing HS PHEV, but brings more power and torque with a bigger battery wrapped in a more contemporary design.

That sees the petrol engine’s 138kW/300Nm boosted by a 180kW/270Nm electric motor and 12.3kWh battery, but there 2765mm wheelbase – an increase of 40mm – brings more to move. That sees electric only range fall from 63km to 50km in what appears to be one of few downsides of the model.

We’ll know for sure when official specs are announced ahead of it local launch later this year.

? Back to top

1

Nissan Qashqai e-Power

The most fuel-efficient Qashqai arrives in Australia as Nissan’s second ‘e-Power’ model after the larger X-Trail e-Power introduced the tech here in 2022.

Australian arrivals are set for Q4 2024 with a single Ti e-Power spec priced at $51,590 before on roads – $3200 above the non-hybrid Qashqai Ti

The Qashqai e-Power follows the same set-up, whereby its 140kW/330Nm electric motor is the sole source of drive to the (front) wheels, with its 2.1kWh battery topped up by the generator – a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine.

A claimed combined 5.2L/100km compares to 6.1L/100km for petrol-powered Qashqai, while bringing a 23-litre larger boot with its second row in place.

? Back to top

1

Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid

The third-generation Tiguan is due to arrive in Australia in 2025 and is likely to see a plug-in hybrid model as part of the local line-up.

Australia missed out on the PHEV with the previous Tiguan, but the local arm has expressed a keen interest in the 2025 Tiguan eHybrid in place of diesel powertrains.

Sharing the Golf’s MQB Evo platform, the pluggy Tiggy also uses the same 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor – sold overseas in 150kW and 200kW outputs – and 19.7kWh battery, with a claimed electric only range of up to 120km.

? Back to top

Australian consumers are increasingly looking to hybrid power as an alternative source, according to the latest VFACTS report.

With increasing cost-of-living pressures and jaw-dropping fuel bowser prices now the norm, consumers seem to be looking at ways to combat this financial burden – and ridding their vehicles of combustion power seems to be an alluring method.

According to the July 2024 VFACTS report, a total of 18,039 hybrid vehicles were sold in July. At the same time last year (July 2023) that figure was 9574, an increase of 8465 sales or a whopping +88.4 per cent.

Petrol sales, by comparison, remain higher (42,027 petrol variants sold in July 2024) but have dipped compared to last year (48,227 sales in July 2023), representing a decline of 6200 sales or -12.9 per cent. It’s a bit different for diesel-powered vehicles, with sales increasing from 27,791 (July, 2023) to 29,263 (July, 2024), a jump of 1472 units or +5.3 per cent.

PHEV sales grew from 965 (July 2023) to 2209 (July 2024), an increase of 1244 sales or +128.9 per cent.

“Consistent with trends in many overseas markets, sales of hybrid vehicles are up 88.4 per cent and plug-in hybrid vehicles are up 128.9 per cent compared with July 2023,” said FCAI Chief Executive, Tony Weber. “The hybrid performance is highlighted by the fact that the Toyota RAV4 was the top-selling vehicle for the month ahead of Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. Most RAV4 sales are hybrids.”

Sales of pure electric vehicles have dipped, down from 6846 in July 2023 to 4048 in July 2024.

“Sales of battery electric vehicles – with the inclusion of the reported Tesla (2592) and Polestar (103) results – are currently at 6.6 per cent of the market, down from 7.0 per cent in 2023,” Weber added.

The year-to-date numbers reinforce Australia’s transition away from petrol power. From January to July, 2023, a total of 342,509 petrol vehicles were sold – that number has shrunk to 314,783 sales over the same period in 2024 (a decline of 8.1 per cent). Diesel numbers may have increased from 203,730 to 223,122 (+9.5 per cent) over the same period, but hybrid numbers have skyrocketed from 9574 to 18,039 (+108.3 per cent).

Granted, the bulk of those hybrid sales are in the passenger and SUV markets, with only a fraction in the Light Commercial segment due to slim pickings. Still, at this time last year, zero hybrids we sold year-to-date. In 2024, a total of 311 hybrid vehicles have been sold in the segment so far.

Passenger sales: Year-to-date

SUV sales: Year-to-date

LCV sales: Year-to-date

Is it time to trade in your ICE vehicle? Let us know in the comments below!

Hyundai has revealed pricing and specs for its 2025 i30 N, touting various safety updates and technology additions to boot.

The storming N hatch launches in Australia in August, 2024, with prices starting at $50,000 (excluding dealer delivery and on-road costs) for the base N variant in either six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic guise.

A DCT i30 N Premium sans sunroof has been added to the local line-up, and is priced at $53,500 (excluding dealer delivery and on-road costs) with the same manual and DCT transmission options. Upgrading to an N Premium with a sunroof costs an extra $2000. Premium paint is $595 across both N and N Premium models.

1

Safety additions for the 2025 model include Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Rear Occupant Alert. Plus, rain-sensing wipers are now included as standard.

Interior technology has been improved with the addition of Hyundai’s 10.25-inch supervision instrumentation that complements a multimedia touchscreen of the same size. The digital dash provides drivers with important track-day information such as a lap timer, g-force indicator and turbo boost gauges.

2

The interior is further revised with the inclusion of N bucket seats wrapped in suede and Alcantara, along with three USB-C charging points (one in the front and two for rear passengers).

Exterior tweaks include 19-inch forged alloy wheels, a revised grille, and red trimming around the side skirts and front bumper.

“These key updates are about improving the Hyundai i30 N formula, without changing the fundamentals,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Executive Officer, Ted Lee.

1

Unchanged for i30 N fans is the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that offers 206kW and 392Nm, with buyers provided the option of a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual clutch transmission.

Adding to the driving excitement is Hyundai’s N Grin shift button that has been added to the steering wheel, a feature that has been included on the i30 Sedan N and the bold, electric IONIQ 5 N. A poke of this button gives the driver 20 seconds of extra power, uproarious engine note and aggressive shifts.

“While the i30 N has always been about maximising performance and fun, these improvements focus on delivering key safety and technology updates, adding to the well-rounded nature of this accessible and exciting performance vehicle,” said Lee.

2025 Hyundai i30 N: Key features

2025 Hyundai i30 N Premium adds

2025 Hyundai i30 N: Pricing

2025 Hyundai i30 N: Options

These are the car brands in Australia with the best warranties and capped-price servicing coverage periods

In a market as small as Australia’s, where we ‘only’ see around 1 million new car sales each year, car brands will quickly follow each other – and one-up each other – to stay competitive.

And, with something like 60 brands currently competing for buyers’ attentions, it’s a hard-fought battle.

One clear example of tight competition is in warranties. The complexities of covering the cost of a new warranty means that brands can’t quickly and easily increase the length of their offer, but as soon as a few brands started upgrading from three- to five-year plans, others followed as quickly as they could.

Likewise, in servicing costs and scheduled visits, with more and more brands working to keep their costs attractive and the visits as infrequent as possible. Not all are doing a great job on that front, however, and that’s where it’s great for buyers to have a resource like the one we’ve built here.

So read on, to see which new-car brands in Australia are offering the most competitive and compelling warranties and capped-price servicing plans.

Best new-car warranties in Australia

This list is ordered first by warranty length, and then alphabetically.

• MG – 10 years / 250,000km
• Mitsubishi – 10 years / 200,000km
• GWM/Haval – 7 years / unlimited km
• Kia – 7 years / unlimited km
• Skoda – 7 years / unlimited km
• SsangYong – 7 years / unlimited km
• LDV – 7 years / 200,000km (non-EV models)
• Isuzu Ute – 6 years / 150,000 km
• BYD – 6 years* / 150,000 km (* see details below!)
• Alfa Romeo – 5 years / unlimited km
• Audi – 5 years / unlimited km
• BMW – 5 years / unlimited km
• Citroen – 5 years / unlimited km
• Ford – 5 years / unlimited km
• Genesis – 5 years / unlimited km
• Honda – 5 years / unlimited km
• Hyundai – 5 years / unlimited km
• Jaguar Land Rover – 5 years / unlimited km
• Jeep – 5 years / 100,000km
• LDV – 5 years / 130,000km (EV models)
• Lexus – 5 years / unlimited km
• Mazda – 5 years / unlimited km
• Mercedes-Benz – 5 years / unlimited km
• Mini – 5 years / unlimited km
• Nissan – 5 years / unlimited km
• Peugeot – 5 years / unlimited km
• Renault – 5 years / unlimited km
• Subaru – 5 years / unlimited km
• Suzuki – 5 years / unlimited km
• Toyota – 5 years / unlimited km
• Volkswagen – 5 years / unlimited km
• Volvo – 5 years / unlimited km
• Rolls Royce – 4 years / unlimited km
• Tesla – 4 years / 80,000km (Battery and drive unit – eight years/160,000km, 192,000km for AWD models)

3-year warranty holdouts

• Alpine – 3 years / 100,000 km
• Aston Martin – 3 years / unlimited km
• Bentley – 3 years / unlimited km
• BMW Alpina – 3 years / 200,000 km
• Ferrari – 3 years / unlimited km
• Fiat – 3 years / 150,000 km
• GMSV – 3 years / 100,000 km
• Maserati – 3 years / unlimited km
• McLaren – 3 years / unlimited km
• Porsche – 3 years / unlimited km
• Ram – 3 years / 100,000 km

2-year warranty holdouts

• Caterham – 2 years/50,000 km
• Lamborghini – 2 years/unlimited km
• Lotus – 2 years/unlimited km

Australia’s best and worst new-car warranties

Detailed breakdown

New car warranties traditionally covered a new vehicle for three years, and often with a limited number of kilometres.

However, Kia Australia’s decision to introduce a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty in 2014 shook up the market in Australia and prompted other manufacturers to increase their coverage.

Some mainstream carmakers initially offered seven-year warranties for a limited time only, but few match Kia permanently – settling for five-year deals instead.

So is a longer warranty worth the paper it’s written on? Generally yes, though it’s important to check the terms and conditions. Its worth is only tangible if something goes wrong with the car. However, it provides peace of mind and could help resale values if the car is sold within the warranty period, as it transfers across with the sale.

It’s worth noting warranties are conditional on the car being regularly serviced to prescribed schedules, but you have the right to choose your own authorised mechanic. Some manufacturers offer incentives to service your vehicle at their dealerships, such as capped-price servicing, free roadside assist or loan cars.

From longest to shortest, here is the comprehensive list of vehicle warranties available in Australia and what conditions are attached for private cars (without the small print).

1

MG – 10 years / 250,000km

The British marque introduced its 10-year / 250,000km warranty in August, 2024, overtaking Mitsubishi to offer Australia’s longest new-car warranty. Unlike Mitsubishi, MG’s new 10-year warranty covers all EV, PHEV and hybrid models. However, if the vehicle is used for commercial purposes, the warranty dips to seven-year / 160,000km.

Prior to this update, MG offered a competitive seven-year / unlimited kilometre warranty. A seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty on anti-perforation and paint remains the same, though.

Mitsubishi – 10 years / 200,000km

Mitsubishi Australia has a 10-year/200,000km warranty under its Diamond Advantage program, but there’s more to the story than just that. Owners who wish to receive the benefits of a 10-year warranty from Mitsubishi must also undergo their regular servicing through brand dealerships for the full decade.

If owners take their vehicle outside the dealer network for servicing, the coverage is halved to Mitsubishi’s standard five-year/100,000km.

The exclusion to this is plug-in hybrid vehicles, which are covered by an eight-year/160,000km deal separately.

Corrosion cover is offered for 5 years from the date of first registration, and roadside assistance can be obtained as part of their 4 year capped price servicing program.

1

GWM/Haval – 7 years / unlimited km

GWM utes and Haval SUVs are covered by the Chinese automaker’s seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, with capped-price servicing available across the model range for the first five services if you have your vehicle checked at a Haval dealership.

The seven-year warranty applies to all Haval vehicles sold from October 1, 2018, and the GWM Ute – Great Wall Steed vehicles sold after April 1, 2019 have a five-year/150,000 km policy.

GWM/Haval owners also benefit from free Roadside Assistance Cover for five years/100,000km after their ownership commencement date.

Kia – 7 years / unlimited km

Kia’s offering also comes with free roadside assist for 12 months, but can be extended to the full seven years if you get the vehicle serviced at an authorised Kia dealer. It also offers seven years capped-price servicing, which is subject to conditions depending on certain models or types of engines.

A perforation guarantee is included for the duration of the 7 year warranty.

EV models are also included in the 7 year coverage, although to a mileage of 150,000km (whichever occurs sooner).

1

LDV

7 years / 200,000km (ICE models)

5 years / 130,000km (EVs)

In November 2022 LDV announced that they were upping their warranty from five years and 130,000km to seven years and 200,000km, but only for their non-EV vehicles. This was partly due to the introduction of new models to their line-up, along with increasing competition from other brands.

The LDV EV range is covered by a five-year term, with separate coverage for genuine parts and accessories. Roadside assist is available for the duration of the warranty, with capped price servicing available on select models up to 3 years or 95,000km.

Australian head of LDV did indicate confidence that the EV range will eventually have its warranty increased to match the ICE equivalent vehicles.

Skoda – 7 years / unlimited km

The Czech brand upped its five-year warranty to seven years in September 2022, which includes complimentary roadside assistance for the first year and is renewable at service for a further nine years.

Corrosion and perforation is covered under a three-year warranty for paint, and 12 years for body. Capped-price servicing plans are available on new cars for periods of five and seven years at 75,000km and 105,000km respectively.

1

SsangYong – 7 years / unlimited km

The Korean carmaker’s factory-backed return to the Australian market came with all its new models covered by its 777 Care Cover – which includes a seven-year warranty, seven-year roadside assistance plan and seven years of capped-price servicing.

Isuzu Ute – 6 years / 150,000km

Isuzu stretched its five-years by an additional 12 months on May 1, 2019. However, the increase in maximum kilometres driven in order to qualify, from 130,000 to 150,000km, wasn’t quite as generous.

The cover period is matched by a seven-year roadside assistance plan, as well as a seven-year capped-price service schedule.

1

BYD – 6 years / 150,000 km

Following an outcry from customers BYD reduced its capped-price servicing costs and offered a free initial 12-month service to those who bought prior to August 31, 2022. The warranty period of six years up to 150,000km otherwise remained unchanged apart from some components (ie 12-volt aux battery and charging cable) being covered for 12 months.

Roadside assistance is offered complimentary for 12 months with an option to extend the support at each annual service.

The battery and drivetrain are covered for a period of 8 years up to 160,000km and 150,000km respectively.

Alfa Romeo – 5 years / unlimited km

Jumping up from its previous three-year/150,000km warranty, Alfa has extended its coverage to five-years/unlimited-kilometres as of April 22, with a five-year roadside assistance package also standard on all new purchases.

Capped price servicing is available for a period of 3 years, and corrosion coverage last to 8 years from start of ownership.

Audi – 5 years / unlimited km

Having stuck with its three-year offering for nearly two years after Mercedes-Benz increased its warranty period, all Audis sold in Australia are now covered by a five-year warranty as of the start of 2022.

With e-tron models the battery is covered for 8 years / 160,000km, with roadside assistance included for 6 years as part of their Audi Advantage package.

Capped price servicing is available as part of Audi’s Genuine Care Plans, with options of either 2 year or a 5 year service plan. Corrosion or perforation cover is given for 5 years on the paint and 12 years on the bodywork.

1

BMW – 5 years / unlimited km

The last hold-out of the premium European makes, November 2022 saw BMW upping their warranty from three years to five for any customers who bought their vehicle on or after October 1, 2022. BMW do not outline a distance in their warranty brochure.

BMW detail that panel rust and perforation will be replaced or repaired for a period of 12 years from first registration, with paint covered for five years. The high-voltage battery in BMW’s electric vehicles can enjoy 8 years of support up to 160,000km, while plug-in hybrid vehicles are covered for 6 years and 100,000km.

Roadside assistance varies based upon the vehicle, but begins at 3 years with unlimited kilometres for petrol and diesel vehicles, moving to 6 years for plug-in hybrid vehicles. 7 Series and 8 Series owners can enjoy 7 years assistance, while high-voltage battery vehicles are covered for 8 years with unlimited kilometres.

Complimentary servicing is offered on 7 Series and 8 Series, along with M5 and M8 models. This servicing runs for 5 years or 80,000km – whichever occurs soonest.

Citroën – 5 years / unlimited km

The French brand previously came with a six-year limit, but this was slashed to three years by its Australian distributor Inchcape – which then extended it to five years in February 2018. Roadside assistance is also provided for 5 years, and capped price servicing is available on the first five services.

Corrosion and perforation cover is also included with a guarantee of three years for paint and 12 years for bodywork.

Ford – 5 years / unlimited km

Ford bolted another two years to its three-year Express offer for all new vehicles sold from May 1, 2018, and removed the 100,000km limit.

Seven years of support is provided with each new car sale from March 2021 as part of Ford’s National Roadside Assistance & Auto Club Lifestyle Membership, provided the vehicle is maintained at a participating Ford dealership. Corrosion is included in a 5 year guarantee for paint and bodywork.

Ford EV vehicles and batteries come with an 8 year / 160,000km warranty.

Genesis – 5 years / unlimited km

The premium brand offers a generous 5 year, unlimited kilometre warranty on new registrations, with 5 years of complimentary servicing up to 50,000km for vehicles with a turbo and 75,000km on vehicles without. Customers within a 70km radius of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane CBDs can also enjoy a valet service that collects their vehicle for servicing before having it returned.

Roadside assistance is also included for 5 years from the start of ownership, which also offers a 24/7 customer service line.

Paint is covered for defects for a period up to 12 months.

Honda – 5 years / unlimited km

Honda’s standard five-year/unlimited kilometre policy also comes with six-year protection against rust perforation. In the past some Hondas had been covered by seven-year terms, which were part of limited edition offers, and included free roadside assist. It is possible that these may again become available during Honda’s ‘Annual Event’ sale.

1

Hyundai – 5 years / unlimited km

Hyundai’s five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty extends to all its vehicles for private use. Paintwork is only covered for 12 months if there’s an application issue or three years for durability. The N Performance brand provides 5 years of corrosion coverage, while other vehicles in the Hyundai range are “per vehicle usage type” according to Hyundai’s Service Warranty Passport. Hyundai’s Genesis and Ioniq sub-brands are also covered for five years.

Roadside assistance is complimentary for 12 months, with a 12 month renewal available at each service with a Hyundai dealership. Capped price servicing is offered through lifetime or through pre-paid servicing packages

The high-voltage batteries in Hyundai EVs including the new Ioniq 5’s battery are covered for eight years or 160,000km, whichever comes first.

Jaguar Land Rover – 5 years / unlimited km

After dabbling with temporary five-year offers, JLR increased permanently to five years and unlimited kilometres from April 1, 2021. This replaced the previous three-year, 100,000km warranty on all new Jaguar, Land Rover and Range Rover vehicles sold in Australia and New Zealand.

Roadside assistance is provided as part of the 5 year warranty for Jaguar and Land Rover models, as well as 5 years for paint surface. Corrosion cover is for 6 years. Service plans are also available, providing services for a duration of 5 years, with kilometre limits differing per vehicle.

Batteries for electric vehicles are covered for 8 years or 160,000km – whichever occurs earliest.

Jeep – 5 years / 100,000km

As well as the five year ‘There and Back’ warranty and fixed-price servicing, Jeep offers lifetime roadside assist, but it is dependent on you having your vehicle serviced through authorised dealers. The 100,000km limit is a little tight considering Jeep’s adventure sales pitch.

Corrosion is also covered for 3 years, and also for a distance of 100,000km.

1

Lexus – 5 years / unlimited km

This may come as a surprise if you’ve just purchased a Lexus in 2021, but don’t despair. The Japanese luxury carmaker announced in November 2021 that it will be increasing its warranty from four years/100,000kms to five years and unlimited kilometres. This warranty is bumper-to-bumper and covers hybrid systems (although not the high voltage battery), and driveline.

High voltage batteries (hybrid, PHEV and EVs) are covered for five years and unlimited kilometres, with an option for a further five years subject to an annual health check with Lexus. Battery degradation is assured through an 10 year, unlimited km warranty.

Roadside assistance is offered for 3 years from the date of registration as part of Lexus’ Encore membership.

Rust or perforation on all models is covered as part of a 7 year, unlimited kilometre warranty. Capped price servicing is available through Lexus’ Encore membership and, depending on the membership tier, is available for a period of three or five years from the vehicle’s warranty registration date.

Mazda – 5 years / unlimited km

Mazda followed Ford’s lead by stretching its three years to five from August 1, 2018. This covers any defect in material or workmanship in both parts and panels. The new period also covers the BT-50 ute, which prior to August 2018 was only covered for two years/unlimited km.

Mazda’s roadside assistance also lasts for the duration of the new car warranty. The warranty also provides corrosion protection for 7 years.

Mazda do offer a pricing guide for their servicing, but November 2022 saw Mazda lift their service intervals from 10,000km to 15,000km.

The batteries in Mazda’s electric models are covered by an 8 year / 160,000km warranty.

1

Mercedes-Benz – 5 years / unlimited km

Mercedes-Benz Australia surprised everyone when it announced all its vehicles, including AMG and EQ electric models, would be covered by a five-year warranty from April 1, 2020.

EV model batteries are covered by Mercedes’ 8 year / 160,000km warranty.

Service prices are be capped for the first three services, with amounts available on their schedule. Roadside assistance is available through an annual membership.

The German manufacturer was the first German luxury-car brand to extend its warranty period beyond the industry-standard three years – but as yet its main rival BMW is yet to follow.

Nissan – 5 years / unlimited km

Nissan now offers a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty on all its products, with their batteries on EV models covered by the standard 8 years or 160,000km warranty.

Capped price servicing is available on the first six services.

1

Peugeot – 5 years / unlimited km

Like Citroen, Peugeot cars were sold under licence by UK-owned Inchcape, which extended the deal for both French brands from three to five years in February 2018.

8 year, 160,000km coverage is also offered for batteries on EV/PHEV models, with capped price servicing provided through Peugeot’s Assured Service Price Promise.

Corrosion protection is granted through a 3 year guarantee on paint and 12 years on bodywork.

Renault – 5 years / unlimited km

Renault offers five years with no kilometre limit on all its passenger cars and SUVs, with its Kangoo, Trafic and Master vans covered for three years/200,000km.

Service your Renault at an authorised service centre and you also get five years capped-price servicing and roadside assist.

Renalt’s electric offerings come with a 3 year, unlimited kilometre warranty, with the battery covered for 5 years or 100,000km.

Subaru – 5 years / unlimited km

Subaru was one of the stragglers when it came to increasing its coverage period, but relented at the start of 2019 and as such, each of its models now receives a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Roadside assistance is complimentary for the first 12 months, and is renewable at each annual service.

Batteries in hybrid models fall under an 8 year / 160,000km warranty.

Capped price servicing is for five years, although the kilometre limits differ depending on the model. Most are covered to 62,500km while other vehicles such as the BRZ and WRX top out at 75,000km.

Suzuki – 5 years / unlimited km

Suzuki held out until October 2019 – since then all its vehicles are covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, bolstered by a capped-price service program (to 100,000km). Roadside assistance also comes with a five year offering with new cars.

Toyota – 5 years / unlimited km

After insisting it would stick with its three-year policy in August 2018, Australia’s most popular car brand read the room and introduced a five-year warranty, along with a 60-day money-back guarantee in January 2019. Corrosion and rust is covered through a 7 year, unlimited km warranty.

Hybrid and EV models are covered by a 5 year warranty, with a further 5 year coverage provided with an annual check up through Toyota’s participating dealers.

Roadside assistance is offered through an annual membership and capped price servicing is available for 5 years through the Toyota Service Advantage program.

1

Volkswagen – 5 years / unlimited km

Volkswagen became the first German brand in Australia to offer a five-year, unlimited-kilometre deal in December 2018. Roadside assistance is provided for the first 12 months of ownership, with an annual renewal available at each service.

Capped price servicing is viewable through VW’s Service Pricing Guide.

Perforation cover is provided for 3 years on paint and 12 years on the panels.

Volvo – 5 years / unlimited km

Volvo Cars increased its term to five years in July 2020, but backdated it to apply to all vehicles registered from April 1, 2020. Roadside assistance is provided for 8 years through Volvo’s Roadside Assistance Program.

Batteries and EVs enjoy an 8 year, 160,000km warranty. Service plans are available for 3 or 5 years, depending on the model of vehicle.

1

Rolls Royce – 4 years / unlimited km

Few cars that cost as much as a house come with more than a three-year warranty, though this only applies to private Rollers and not commercially operated limos. The four-year term includes free roadside assistance.

Tesla – 4 years / 80,000km

In typical unconventional fashion, Tesla is the only carmaker to actually decrease its general warranty period – from eight years and unlimited kilometres to four years and 80,000km. The good news is the batteries and drive units are still covered for eight years, with the maximum kilometres varying for different models. (eight years/160,000km for RWD, 192,000km for AWD models)

Corrosion and rust is covered for 12 years and unlimited kilometres, while roadside assistance is available through Tesla themselves.

1

3-year warranty holdouts

• Alpina – 3 years/200,000km
• Alpine – 3 years/100,000km
• Aston Martin – 3 years/unlimited km
• Bentley – 3 years/unlimited km
• BMW – 3 years/unlimited km
• Ferrari – 3 years/unlimited km
• Fiat – 3 years/150,000km
• GMSV – 3 years/100,000km
• Maserati – 3 years/unlimited km
• McLaren – 3 years/unlimited km
• Porsche – 3 years/unlimited km
• Ram – 3 years/100,000km

2-year warranty holdouts

• Caterham – 2 years/50,000km
• Lamborghini – 2 years/unlimited km
• Lotus – 2 years/unlimited km

MG has just introduced Australia’s best new-car warranty, now offering an industry-leading 10-year / 250,000km warranty across its entire range of vehicles.

Previously, Mitsubishi held Australia’s best new-car warranty with its 10-year / 200,000km Diamond Advantage warranty (if regular services took place at Mitsubishi dealerships) or 10-year / 100,000km warranty (if customers took the vehicle outside the dealer network).

Unlike Mitsubishi, MG’s new 10-year warranty covers all EV, PHEV and hybrid models. However, if the vehicle is used for commercial purposes, the warranty drops to seven-year / 160,000km. A seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty on anti-perforation and paint remains unchanged.

“If you’re looking for value and peace of mind from a new car purchase, the length and quality of the factory warranty should be as important as the horsepower. We think that our new 10-year warranty for EV, PHEV, Hybrid and petrol range is the best and strongest in market,” said MG Motor’s Chief Commercial Officer, Giles Belcher.

“We are listening to our customers. We do think a longer warranty is more attractive, and it also reiterates trust in our cars.

“MG’s 10-year warranty delivers unmatched peace of mind and ensures that you are fully supported on every journey. When it comes time for our customers to upgrade their car, we want them to turn to us first. We have a stack of great product in market and more on its way, so we want people to try us sooner than later,” Belcher added.

1

In addition to the updated warranty, MG has also altered the MSRP across its entire range. This includes a price reduction of its ZS EV (MY23 Excite) during the month of August only, making it the most affordable RV in the market at $34,990 drive-away.

“MG is putting customers first by ensuring all road users can access a wide range of affordable zero emission vehicles thanks to a special National Driveaway Price Campaign on our ZS EV Excite at a very affordable $34,990 driveaway (01/08/24), during the month of August” he said.

This discounted price for the ZS EV will only last until August 31, 2024.

With the news that the Lamborghini Huracán’s successor is set to slot a turbocharged V8 behind its driver’s shoulder, the final curtain has been drawn on the V10 engine.

Received wisdom has it that the production car V10 was inspired by the 1988 turbo ban in Formula 1, with manufacturers keen to latch onto the reflected glory of the astonishing-sounding motorsport engines. The truth, as ever, is a little more complicated.

While diesel V10 engines have been used in tanks, trucks and buses for many years, the first petrol V10 was the 272kW 4.0-litre unit in the back of the stillborn Lamborghini P140, which dates to 1987.

1

It was carried over to the 1995 Cala concept which also failed to launch.

It wasn’t the European bluebloods that got first dibs on V10 petrol engines though. Dodge launched the Viper with an 8.0-litre V10 in 1991, albeit with Lamborghini’s help with the aluminium block casting.

That engine was, effectively, a Magnum 5.9 with a couple of extra cylinders and a bit of creative stroking – a version going into the ’94 Dodge Ram. Ford’s Triton truck engine followed in ’97 and VW developed a 5.0-litre V10 diesel that was used from 2002 to 2010 in the Touareg SUV and the Phaeton limousine.

1

The F1 era of V10s lasted from 1989, when the McLaren MP4/5 and Williams FW12 debuted, through to 2005, after which they were banned in favour of tamer 2.4-litre V8s.

The Lamborghini V10 arrived with the Gallardo in 2003, the same year that Porsche plumbed the 980/01 5.7-litre V10 into its Carrera GT hypercar.

By 2005, the V10 was adopted by BMW, the troubled S85 unit being fitted to M5 and M6 models. The following year saw the Audi S6 and the S8 both get a 5.2-litre V10. Rather than being a development of the Lamborghini 5.0-litre V10, this was an extension of the 4.2-litre V8 FSI, sharing its 90mm cylinder bore spacing rather than the Lamborghini’s 88mm.

1

The Italians subsequently adopted the Audi architecture for the facelift Gallardo and its successor, the Huracán, by which point that engine was also used in the Audi R8.

The mania for V10 engines had long come and gone by the time that Toyota developed the best example of the ilk with its 1LR-GUE powerplant. This only ever had one application – beneath the bonnet of the Lexus LFA.

Co-developed with Yamaha, this 4.8-litre 412kW masterpiece was conceived not because of any F1 associations, but purely because it was realised that the V10 was the only engine that had the requisite engine response and rev ceiling.

1

With the withdrawal of the Huracán, the production V10 era has come to an end. It was hugely exciting, the engines sounded savage and the cars that sported V10s have retained a certain cachet.

You’d need to be dead inside not to be thrilled at the sound of a howling V10. Thirty grand will buy you a tidy V10-powered Audi S6 or S8. Fit the right exhaust and you’ll sound like Mika Hakkinen on a quali lap. What’s stopping you?

1

The first competition V10

Although Alfa Romeo did design a 3.5-litre V10 for Ligier F1 back in 1986, it never saw competition use.

The first V10 used on track was found in the 1990 Peugeot 905, which campaigned in the last two races of the 1990 World Sportscar Championship.

A DNF in Montreal and a 13th place in the final round in Mexico weren’t auspicious results, but the following year, Peugeot was joined by V10s from Judd and Toyota on the sportscar grids. The 905 came good, winning Le Mans in 1992 and 1993. The final hurrah for V10s in LMP1 racing came with the Audi R15 diesels that scored a 1-2-3 at Le Mans in 2010.

The small car in Australia is a category of vehicle that, if it were an animal, would be subject to some sort of UN breeding program with news coverage every time a freshly manufactured example was released from a showroom into the wild. But it shouldn’t be so.

Recently I drove a long-time jewel in the small-car crown – a new-generation Suzuki Swift. A rival to this month’s Wheels cover car, the MG 3, this Swift is not a facelift, it’s an entirely new vehicle – and when there’s a new generation of a small car, balloons should be falling from ceilings. Damn near public holidays should be declared.

It wasn’t that long ago that small cars were ferociously mauling the ankles of bigger vehicles in the Aussie sales race. Fifteen years ago, in 2009, the Light car segment comprised 12.4 percent of all new cars sold in Australia. The Hyundai Getz and Toyota Yaris fought over the number-one spot like two terriers in a tug-of-war, as the little Mazda 2, Holden Barina and others nipped and snarled from the sidelines.

1

No fewer than 25 models vied for what was a hotly contested, thriving market segment.

It’s a very different story today – the Light segment making up just 2.9 percent of the new car market in 2023 as buyers are upsold into small SUVs instead. The old $18,990 drive-away MG 3 (Australia’s favourite small car) has proven an appetite remains for cheap small cars, but for the most part it’s been a bloodbath of discontinued models, including Mitsubishi Mirage, Ford Fiesta, Honda Jazz, Renault Clio, Nissan Micra, Peugeot 208 and Hyundai i20.

It’s a pity because cars like these probably make more sense than ever. We are, of course, facing a crisis of climate – one that’s changing the face of the automotive industry. Those in power are sensibly taking heed of scientists’ furious arm waving and barely muted screaming, and implementing rules to reduce fuel consumption of brand new cars (heard of NVES?).

1

New vehicles in Australia, in this day and age, are largely light commercials masquerading as family transport or oversized SUVs hulking along on raised ride heights with all-wheel-drive systems they don’t strictly need.

Worse still, they are vehicles built to carry four, five or seven, and instead, the vast majority of time can be seen carrying one.

If we had to imagine a type of vehicle to expedite the reduction of fossil fuel it might not be an EV pretending to be an off-roader. It might be more appropriately sized given its regular occupancy of just one, or one and a few kids.

A small car, basically.

1

Driving the new Suzuki Swift Hybrid this month was like catching up with a wily, witty old mate. Just as it did when launched in 1984, the new Swift shows the value of a simply smaller, lighter car.

It’s a ‘mild hybrid’, which is a cynical term, as it uses a smaller battery with an integrated starter-generator, but god forbid it was a real, dinky-di hybrid like that of a Toyota or a Hyundai because it might actually start generating petrol out of nothing.

Real world fuel economy around 4.0L/100km – at worst, 5.0L/100km – bespeaks the value of not just mild electrification but also lightness and smaller frontal areas.

1

Think of the carbon dioxide that could be saved across the new-car world if everybody was simply forced into smaller cars instead of electric ones.

Lightness also grants the little Swift a lovely ride-and-handling balance – the car feeling delightfully quick-stepping on its feet as well as granting plenty of lane to drive within owing to its petite width. It’s easy to park, tackles speed bumps with aplomb, and I’d put money on it tackling a dirt road as well as any small SUV.

It’s a pity so few will be seen in the wild, then. But whatever program might be needed to increase its numbers and those of its small car kin, I will get behind.