GWM has announced that its new Tank 500 Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) will launch in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2025, expanding the brand’s electrified portfolio.

The model becomes GWM’s fourth PHEV this year, following hybrid versions of the H6GT, Cannon Alpha and H6, and is the third vehicle to feature the company’s Hi4-T hybrid four-wheel-drive architecture.

The Hi4-T system pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 120kW electric motor, delivering a combined 300kW and 750Nm through a nine-speed hybrid automatic transmission. GWM claims the Tank 500 accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, while returning combined fuel consumption of 2.1L/100km.

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A 37.1kWh lithium battery provides up to 120km of electric-only range (NEDC) and an overall range of around 950km. Charging options include 50kW DC fast charging – bringing the battery from 30 to 80 per cent in about 24 minutes – or approximately 6.5 hours on an AC home charger. The SUV also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, supplying up to 6kW to external equipment.

In line with the Tank badge, the Hi4-T incorporates mechanical torque-on-demand 4WD, a non-decoupling structure and up to three differential locks. Ground clearance is rated at 213mm, with approach, breakover and departure angles of 30, 22.5 and 24 degrees respectively, and a wading depth of 800mm. Towing capacity is listed at 3,000kg (braked).

Drivers can select from eleven driving modes, while an off-road display provides data on gradient, tilt and differential lock status.

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The Tank 500 Hi4-T will seat five, reconfigured from seven to accommodate the larger battery and improve second-row comfort. Rear passengers benefit from heating, ventilation, massage functions and a dedicated 7-inch control screen. Up front, a 14.6-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, alongside a 7-inch driver’s screen and three-zone climate control.

Safety features include seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, 360-degree camera, and front and rear parking sensors.

Australian pricing will be announced closer to launch. The Tank 500 Hi4-T will be covered by GWM Care, which includes a seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, an eight-year/unlimited kilometre battery warranty, capped-price servicing for seven years and roadside assistance.

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Australia’s crash testing authority ANCAP has handed down safety ratings for the new Kia K4 sedan, with most variants securing the maximum five stars – but the entry-level S variant without the optional Safety Pack achieving only four stars.

The decision follows Kia’s approach with the outgoing Cerato, where safety equipment varied between trim levels, prompting buyers to weigh up safety specifications as well as price.

According to ANCAP, the K4 Sport, Sport+, GT-Line and S fitted with the Safety Pack all achieved five-star ratings thanks to a comprehensive list of active safety technologies and strong results across physical crash protection tests. The K4 also performed well in terms of “aggressivity,” scoring low in the risk it poses to occupants of other vehicles during a crash.

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However, the base K4 S without the Safety Pack lacks key safety hardware, and the omission results in reduced crash avoidance capability. Specifically, its autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system is unable to detect or respond to intersection “T-bone” scenarios, while its emergency lane-keep assist (ELK) does not identify adjacent vehicles or motorcycles.

These shortfalls reduced the Safety Assist score for the base model by 13 per cent, while protection for vulnerable road users was also marked down. As a result, the base variant received a four-star rating.

ANCAP Chief Executive Carla Hoorweg said while the top results were encouraging, consumers needed to pay close attention to specifications.

“The five-star rating achieved by the majority of K4 variants is encouraging news for private and fleet customers,” she said. “However, it is important to note that the base grade without the Safety Pack does not provide the same level of safety. In 2025, safety should not be treated as a ‘pay-for’ option.”

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Hoorweg urged buyers to check the ANCAP score for the specific model and variant they are considering. “Our message for Kia is to provide the same standard level of safety across the range. Consumers should not have to pay extra or compromise when buying to a budget.”

The Kia K4 is now on sale across Australia.

MG Motor Australia has launched a suite of limited offers for September, with drive-away pricing and cashback deals across key models in its line-up.

From September 1, the mid-size MG HS SUV is available from $35,990 drive-away for the Excite, while the Essence variant is priced from $39,990 drive-away. The introduction of drive-away pricing equates to savings of up to $4,000, depending on state-based on-road costs.

Following strong demand earlier in the year, MG is also reintroducing its $2,000 cashback offer on the popular ZS and MG3 ranges, including both petrol and HYBRID+ versions. The incentive aims to make MG’s hybrid powertrain more accessible to buyers seeking a mix of efficiency and everyday practicality.

MG Motor Australia Business Director Kevin Gannon said the offers are designed to reinforce the brand’s value proposition.

“The MG HS … presents an amazing opportunity for families looking for more space in their daily vehicle,” he said. “The value MG provides is industry leading and continues to offer Australians more ways to drive away in their own new car.”

MG is also offering $2,000 cashback on ZST Vibe (below) demonstrator models purchased before 30 September 2025.

All vehicles are supported by MG’s national network of more than 100 dealerships and backed by a seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, which extends to 10 years/250,000 kilometres when servicing is carried out within the MG dealer network.

MG says the September offers are strictly time-limited, encouraging buyers to act quickly to secure the savings across its compact car and SUV line-up.

A cryptic image posted to Audi’s Canadian social media channels has ignited speculation about the brand’s upcoming concept car, set for unveiling at the Munich Motor Show.

The teaser photo reveals the outline of a sleek two-seat sports car that appears to mark a bold shift in Audi’s design philosophy. Finished in silver, the concept instantly recalls the iconic TT coupe – a model that played a defining role in shaping Audi’s image for decades. Reports suggest this new concept will serve as a styling blueprint for all future Audi models.

While the silhouette nods to the TT, it’s far from a simple revival. Clean, minimalist lines dominate the profile, complemented by ultra-thin LED light signatures. Hints of the second-generation R8 can also be seen in the contours of the roofline and the sculpted rear section. The short wheelbase all but confirms a compact two-seat layout, and industry insiders believe the car will be powered by an all-electric drivetrain, potentially sharing technology with Porsche’s upcoming electric Boxster and Cayman.

Closer inspection reveals subtle design flourishes. Additional seams in the roof panels suggest the possibility of a removable top, further emphasising its role as a driver’s car. Meanwhile, six-spoke wheels appear to be a deliberate homage to the original TT’s unmistakable styling cues.

If confirmed, this concept could represent one of Audi’s most important design statements in years—merging its celebrated coupe heritage with an electrified future.

Audi is set to unveil the concept shortly, where further details on its technology and design intent will be revealed. Until then, enthusiasts are left with only the teaser image and the promise of a striking new chapter in Audi’s story.

BYD has confirmed the launch of a new addition to its plug-in hybrid SUV line-up, with the SEALION 6 Premium Extended Range officially on sale across Australia from September 1.

The new model joins the Sealion 6 Dynamic Extended Range and builds on the success of the broader line-up. So far this year, more than 5500 Sealion 6s have sold here, making the model the nation’s best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV.

Central to the new Premium Extended Range is a larger 26.6kWh Blade Battery, a 45 per cent increase in capacity compared to the Premium Standard Range’s 18.3kWh unit. The result is EV-only driving range climbs from about 80km to nearly 130km (NEDC) depending on conditions.

Combined with BYD’s DM-i (Dual Mode – Intelligent) hybrid system, the Sealion 6 Premium Extended Range delivers a total driving range of roughly 1000km. The system also brings a boost in performance, with 253kW of power enabling 0–100 km/h acceleration in just 5.5 seconds.

With the average Australian commute measuring only around 30km per day, the new variant offers the potential to operate as a near full-time EV during the week, while its extended range hybrid system ensures flexibility for longer trips. Fuel economy cites official consumption figures of just 1.1L/100km, ahead of most conventional hybrids that typically average over 4.8L/100km.

The Sealion 6 Premium Extended Range is priced from $52,990 plus on-road costs, and comes with a choice of two interior finishes and four exterior colours: Arctic White, Stone Grey, Harbour Grey, and Cosmos Black.

BYD says the combination of sleek styling, greater personalisation and efficiency gains will help the Sealion 6 Premium Extended Range appeal to Australian SUV buyers.

Australia’s first race-ready GR Supra has been revealed as Toyota looks to steal the limelight at the classic Bathurst 1000.

The first Supercars contender from the country’s top selling brand will not hit the starting grid until the opening race of season 2026 but is already primed for demonstration laps at Mount Panorama in October.

Ironically, it was unveiled in Sydney just a single day after Toyota Australia closed the order books for the last run of the outgoing GR Supra road car.

Still, Toyota insists there is a long-term future for the Supra nameplate in Australia, despite the end of its collaboration with BMW on the car which has also been sold by the German brand as its Z4.

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“The current-generation GR Supra production car is being discontinued, but the nameplate will live on,” the vice-president of Toyota Australia, Sean Hanley, told Wheels.

“The entry into the Supercars Championship was always about promoting, lifting awareness, and showing the capability of the GR performance brand.”

It’s taken more than a decade for Toyota to commit to Supercars and it’s the first newcomer to the red-against-blue tribal fight – Ford versus GM – since Volvo, Nissan and Mercedes fled from touring car racing after failing to break the duopoly.

To do the job, Toyota turned to Walkinshaw Andretti United, a front-line Supercars squad with a history that includes decades as the official Holden Racing Team under the leadership of the late Tom Walkinshaw.

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Ironically, WAU is parking its current pair of Ford Mustang racers to switch to the Supra-car, a Toyota drive that will also bring four cars from Brad Jones Racing into the camp.

Toyota Australia has been responsible for the design and development of the new Supra’s competition bodywork while WAU has handled the installation of the race-specification V8 engine into the compulsory
mechanical package – with shared elements from the tube-frame chassis to suspension and brakes – used for the latest generation of Gen3 Supercars.

The heart of the car is a boutique racing version of the 5-litre 2UR-GSE V8 engine from the Lexus LC500 coupe, developed in Britain by Swindon Powertrain. It will produce more than 450 kiloWatts. But, because Supercars is a ’technical parity’ category under its latest Gen3 regulations, both the powertrain package and the aerodynamic bodywork must be developed – and limited – to ensure a match with the latest Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro competing in the category.

The GR Supra-car completed a successful roll-out in front of a VIP audience at Toyota’s giant complex at Altona in Melbourne last week and will begin its serious development program at Winton in two days
time. Driving duties will be handled by Supercars veteran Warren Luff, who has 23 starts and six podiums at Bathurst, as WAU’s full-time racers Chaz Mostert and Ryan Wood are contracted to Ford until the end of the year.

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Apart from development work and reliability testing, the GR Supra will also undergo complicated parity testing towards the end of the year in the USA, with wind tunnel and dynamometer measurements to ensure it is equal – but no better – to the cars it will race against from 2026.

See the full story in the October edition of Wheels, on sale September 22.

Hyundai Motor Company Australia has announced a major step forward in customer support, introducing a new seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty across its entire passenger vehicle range. The change, effective for vehicles first registered from 1 June 2025, marks a significant evolution of Hyundai’s aftersales offering in Australia.

The warranty, which applies to petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles, excludes only the Staria Load commercial van and cars used for taxi, hire, or ride-share purposes, which retain a five-year/160,000 km package.

Hyundai was the first brand to offer a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty in Australia back in 2007, following an initial five-year/130,000 km package launched in 1999. Chief Executive Officer Don Romano said the move reflects Hyundai’s ongoing commitment to leadership in customer value.

“Hyundai introduced the first five-year unlimited kilometre warranty in this country, and extending that to seven years demonstrates the importance we place on competitive coverage and owner confidence,” Romano said. “Over recent months we worked closely with our dealer network to create a package that delivers genuine peace of mind.”

Key Details of the New Warranty

To qualify for the full seven years of coverage, owners must complete all scheduled services at an authorised Hyundai dealer. The package includes:

• Seven years of coverage for corrosion, paint durability, and multimedia systems – areas often excluded by rivals.
• An eight-year/160,000 km warranty for high-voltage EV batteries.
• Extension of the Bluelink connected car subscription to seven years, when service requirements are met.
• 24/7 nationwide Premium Roadside Support for the lifetime of the vehicle, provided servicing continues within the Hyundai network.

Owners who choose to service their vehicle outside Hyundai’s dealer network will continue to receive the standard five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

myHyundaiCare: New Aftersales Experience

The launch also coincides with the introduction of myHyundaiCare, which replaces the previous iCare program. The initiative reflects Hyundai’s global shift to more connected and customer-centric service, offering online booking and quotes, genuine parts, and factory-trained technicians under the renamed Genuine Service Plan.

Hyundai says the changes reinforce its goal of making vehicle ownership more transparent, seamless, and confidence-inspiring for Australian drivers.

The 2026 Kia Stonic has been revealed ahead of a fourth quarter 2025 Australian release with major styling and interior updates to keep it fresh in the small SUV segment.

In addition to the new styling and dashboard layout, it will reportedly receive mild-hybrid drivetrains in Australia for the first time to cut fuel consumption and boost Kia’s NVES compatability. 

While the body is the same as the pre-updated model, the exterior of the 2026 Kia Stonic sees all-new front and rear end styling, this time with Kia’s latest design language for a similar look to newer models like the Sportage mid-size SUV. New front and rear LED lighting units now feature, as well as redesigned bumpers and wheels. Two new colour options join the range: ‘Adventurous Green’ (below) and ‘Yacht Blue’.

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On the inside, the Stonic sees a new dashboard with twin 12.3-inch displays and the touch panel featured in models such as the EV6 and Sorento that can switch between the climate control and media. A new centre console has also been introduced, as well as new steering wheel and gear shifter designs, and the previously manual handbrake is now electronic. 

The infotainment system does not run the latest Kia software, however, though it will now feature live services and even a digital key system. USB-C ports have replaced the former USB-A units, and a wireless charger is now available. 

The powertrains in the 2026 Kia Stonic are unchanged, with the 74kW/172Nm 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine set to continue, but Australian models will reportedly see a 48-volt mild-hybrid version making 85kW/200Nm for the first time. Whether that drivetrain will be standard or only on certain models is yet to be announced, but it will reportedly cut fuel use by up to five per cent thanks to its ability to switch the engine off while coasting. 

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Other new features to the updated Stonic include braking for the blind-spot monitoring system, safe exit warning, navigation-based adaptive cruise control and highway driving assistance technology.

The 2026 Kia Stonic is due in Australian Kia showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2025, with local pricing and specifications yet to be revealed.

MG Motor Australia has unveiled further details of its highly anticipated MGU9 ute, ahead of its launch later this year. Designed and tested specifically for Australian conditions, the newcomer aims to combine rugged durability with SUV-like refinement and a raft of unique innovations.

At the heart of the MGU9 is a 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and BorgWarner Super Select 4WD system. With electronically controlled locking differentials at both axles, the drivetrain is tuned to balance highway composure with off-road ability. The ute’s robust chassis supports a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, while advanced anti-corrosion treatments are designed to withstand Australia’s toughest environments.

One of the model’s standout features is an electric opening tailgate with a built-in step. With the press of a button, the tailgate lowers to provide easier access to the tub, enhancing both safety and convenience. There are even built-in cup holders, allowing the tailgate to double as seating at job sites, campsites, or weekend getaways.

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The MGU9 adopts double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link independent rear, a set-up more typical of premium SUVs. Benchmarking across highways, rural roads and off-road tracks has, MG says, fine-tuned the ride to deliver both strong handling and comfort.

Inside, MG promises refinement without compromise. The cabin is fitted with dual 12.3-inch digital displays, premium finishes and ergonomic design. Comfort features include heated front and rear seats, ventilation and massage functions for the driver, and layered cushioning to reduce fatigue on long drives.

The ute meets Euro NCAP five-star standards, with a package that includes Bosch ESP 9.3, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist and multiple airbags. High-strength body materials further bolster crash protection.

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MG Motor Australia Business Director Kevin Gannon said the ute reflects the brand’s ambition to push into one of Australia’s most competitive segments. “Australians no longer have to choose between performance and refinement,” he said. “The MGU9 delivers both, along with features that will surprise buyers for all the right reasons.”

With its blend of heavy-duty capability and SUV-inspired luxury, the MGU9 is another bold new step by MG into popular Australian vehicle segments.

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GWM is set to strengthen its presence in the mid-size SUV segment with the launch of two new electrified variants in its volume-selling Haval H6 line-up.

The new additions include the Haval H6 Lux 2WD Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), priced from $44,990 driveaway, and the Haval H6 Ultra AWD Hybrid (HEV), starting at $47,490 driveaway. Together, they offer buyers a broader spread of technology and drivetrain options at competitive price points.

The Lux 2WD PHEV provides an accessible entry into plug-in hybrid motoring, appealing to those seeking the flexibility of petrol-electric efficiency with the ability to recharge from the grid. Meanwhile, the Ultra AWD Hybrid debuts GWM’s advanced Hi4 technology in a non-plug-in format, delivering all-wheel drive capability with the smoothness and refinement of a traditional hybrid system.

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First introduced in the H6 Ultra PHEV grade, Hi4 (Hybrid Intelligent 4WD) technology blends petrol and electric power across both axles. It adapts to changing conditions by switching between multiple drive modes, ensuring maximum torque when needed, efficiency during everyday driving, and improved traction in demanding environments. F

Both models are covered by the GWM Care program, which offers a 7-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, 8-year battery warranty, 5-year roadside assistance, and 5-year capped-price servicing. Buyers will also have access to the company’s expanding dealer network of 117 outlets nationwide.

The expanded Haval H6 range will go on sale in mid-September 2025, with the new hybrids expected to attract interest from fuel-conscious drivers.

GWM Haval H6 Lux

Exterior

• 19” black alloy wheels
• LED DRL’s
• Auto LED headlights
• Auto high beam
• Headlight – Follow me home function
• LED taillights
• LED rear fog light
• Auto fold exterior mirrors
• Heated door mirrors
• Puddle lamps
• Shark fin antenna
• Smart keyless entry
• Kick sensing electric tailgate (ex. PET. Lux)

Interior

• Microfibre leather steering wheel
• Comfort Tek leather seats
• Driver 6-way electric adjustable seat
• Front passenger 4-way manual adjustable seat
• Dual zone climate control with rear vents
• Power windows – auto windows + anti pinch (all)
• Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirror
• Auto dimming rear view mirror
• Front 12v socket
• Luggage area 12v socket
• Cargo cover
• Column electronic gear selector
• 10.25” digital instrument cluster
• 4-way steering column adjustment
• Auto electronic park brake + auto hold
• Automatic rain-sensing front wipers
• Multi-function steering wheel
• Push-button start
• Adaptive & Intelligent cruise control

Infotainment

• 14.6” touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Bluetooth®
• DAB+
• 8 speaker audio (PET. Lux, HEV Lux,)
• Voice command
• Front USB outlets x2
• Rear USB outlets x2
• 5oW wireless phone charger
• Telematics (PHEV only)

Safety

• 7 airbags – 2x front, 2x side, 2x curtain, 1x centre
• 360° surround view camera
• 180° transparent chassis
• Rear parking sensors
• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
• Follow me home lighting
• Trailer sway mitigation
• ISOFIX child restraints
• Hill ascent / descent control
• Adaptive cruise control
• Collision Mitigation (ESC, AEB, LKA, LDW, LCK, ELK)
• AEB junction assist
• Traffic sign recognition
• Front Collision Warning (FCW) (pedestrian + cyclist)
• Traffic sign recognition
• Traffic jam assist
• Intelligent turning
• Smart dodge
• Emergency signal system (indicators)
• Driver fatigue monitoring system

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GWM Haval H6 Ultra adds:

Exterior

• Rear privacy glass
• Panoramic sunroof

Interior

• Front heated / ventilated seats
• Front passenger 4-way power adjustable seat
• Front stainless steel scuff plates
• Infotainment
• 8 speaker audio (HEV Ultra)
• 9 speaker audio (Petrol Ultra, PHEV Ultra)

Driver

• Driver seat memory + welcome
• Driver seat lumbar support
• Head up display (HUD)
• Auto parking assist (ex. PHEV)
• Auto reverse assist (ex. PHEV)
• Heated steering wheel

Safety

• Front parking sensors

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