The updated electric 2023 MG5 wagon has been revealed for the UK market, with Australian buyers only able to nab the petrol sedan when it lands here next year.

Headlined by styling and equipment upgrades, the upgraded model features revisions to the exterior design which extend to new front and rear bumpers, redesigned LED head and rear lights, and new alloy wheel designs.

First seen on the all new ZS EV launched in November 2021, the new MG5 EV will also come equipped with Vehicle-To-Load (V2L) capability, meaning users can power other electric devices using the energy stored in the battery, such as e-bikes, portable heaters or camping equipment.

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On the inside, the MG5 EV has also received interior design and technology upgrades, including a 10.25-inch widescreen infotainment system with improved software that is now capable of supporting iSMART connected car functionality through the MG app.

Car fans will be able to get their first official glimpse today when the vehicle takes centre stage in Goodwood’s dedicated EV section.

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Since it launched in 2020, the MG5 EV has proved popular with UK buyers, with more than 8000 finding homes in the country. It also remains the only fully-electric wagon in its sector in that market.

Full UK pricing and specification is set to be revealed at a later date, however Australians won’t be able to get their hands on the electric wagon, with MG’s local arm previously confirming it will only be adding the MG5 sedan to its line-up, with that model expected to arrive at the beginning of 2023.

A spokesperson told Wheels: “We are currently reviewing the MG5 for the Australian market and exploring different variants. It is unlikely that we will see this model before the first quarter of 2023.”

It’s also understood the model’s name could change before it arrives on local shores.

The Thai-built MG5 coupe sedan is about the size of a Honda Civic, to which it bears quite a resemblance.

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It’s powered by a choice of two 1.5-litre engines developed by MG’s parent company SAIC, including an 89kW naturally-aspirated version and a punchier 129kW turbo.Transmissions include a 5-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch auto.

MG Australia is yet to confirm which powertrains will be available in Australia.

Equipment wise, expect it to be similar to the MG ZST small SUV, which features MG’s ‘Pilot’ active safety suite, a digital gauge cluster, multimedia touchscreen, leather-appointed trim.

UPDATE, June 23, 2022: Goodwood Festival of Speed kicks off

Our rolling coverage of the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed has been updated to include the latest debuts, with the annual hill climb set to begin today.

Stay tuned to WhichCar.com.au in the coming days as more vehicles are showcased at the event.

The 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed is set to run from Thursday, June 23, to Sunday, June 26, with a host of vehicle debuts expected.

This year, the theme for the hill climb is ‘the innovators – masterminds of motorsport’, with event organisers promising to focus on both historic and future achievements in the automotive industry.

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Following a strong pull away from traditional motor shows in recent years, further hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, manufacturers are capitalising on the success of the Goodwood Festival of Speed through unveilings of new metal.

Here is our guide to the biggest reveals set to take place during this year’s four-day festival.

Bentley

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Bentley has several busy days ahead, with a strong presence at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The first models to debut were the 2023 Bentley Continental GT S and Flying Spur S.

Joining the third-generation range first launched in 2017, the S models are available with a 4.0-litre turbocharged V8, or an 2.9-litre plug-in hybrid V6 for the Flying Spur S

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There is no S-badged variant with the flagship 6.0-litre W12 engine; however, Bentley has covered buyers looking for 12-cylinder power with the plush, updated 2023 Continental GT Mulliner.

The flagship Continental GT gains the Speed’s more-powerful twin-turbocharged W12 engine and other enhancements for 2023.

Finally, attention will turn to the unveiling of the latest Mulliner project car on Friday, June 24, at 10:00pm Australian Eastern Standard Time.

BMW M3 Touring

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The camouflage has finally come off the long-awaited 2023 BMW M3 Touring at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Making its debut up the hill climb, the M3 Touring is confirmed for the Australian market, where it will touch down in the first quarter of 2023.

It will be exclusively available in flagship all-wheel-drive Competition guise, featuring a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine producing 375kW of power and 650Nm of torque.

Late last week, BMW confirmed the M3 Touring set a record-breaking Nürburgring lap time for a wagon, posting a 7:35.060 time. This also makes it faster than the current, twin-turbo V8-powered F90 M5 Competition.

In addition, the first high-performance 3 Series wagon joins the 2023 M3 in adopting the brand’s latest curved display, with 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment system running iDrive 8.

Ford E-Transit Custom Supervan

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Ford has confirmed the Supervan will return after a 28-year hiatus.

Based on the all-new electric E-Transit Custom, the performance van concept is expected to sport a dual-motor powertrain and aerodynamic parts to assist in its run up the famous hill.

With the Transit commercial van transforming the industy in the United Kingdom, the Supervan has been used by the Blue Oval to demostrate how a work-tool could be turned into a racer.

Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance, said the E-Transit Custom Supervan demonstrates the possibilities an electrified powertrain brings.

It is unknown if the promotional vehicle will ever reach Australia, however, local buyers will be able to purchase the E-Transit Custom when it arrives in 2024.

Genesis X Speedium Coupe

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Korean luxury brand Genesis has confirmed the X Speedium Coupe concept will make its ‘real world’ debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The event will mark its first public sighting since it was unveiled in April.

It follows the earlier reveal of the X Concept, with the Speedium Coupe including a new grille-less front end, along with a longer wheelbase and squarer roofline – potentially hinting at plans for a big four-door coupe to sit alongside the next-generation G90 limo.

The Genesis X Speedium Coupe will be presented alongside the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70, recently driven in prototype form in Australia. To read and watch our first-drive review, click here.

Kia EV6 GT

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The powerful 2023 Kia EV6 GT electric car will make an appearance at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Steered by British rally driver Jade Paveley, the all-electric crossover will take on the famous hillclimb several times over the course of the weekend.

Kia claims the EV6 GT can reach 100km/h from a standstill in 3.5 seconds, with 430kW of power and 740Nm of torque and a top speed of 260km/h.

It is listed from £59,995 (AU$105,000) in the United Kingdom, with pricing likely to fall just under the $100,000 mark in Australia.

Kia is expected to launch the 2023 EV6 GT in Australia during the first quarter of next year.

Land Rover

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The stretched Land Rover Defender 130 will be joined by the all-new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Featuring eight-seats and a mammoth 5.4m body, the 2023 Land Rover Defender 130 is the largest Defender ever, battling against the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS – in addition to competition within the family.

The all-new 2023 Range Rover and its smaller 2023 Range Rover Sport sibling will fight for attention at the festival, with Land Rover also showcasing its two next-generation luxury 4x4s at the event.

Maserati Grecale

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Italian luxury marque Maserati will debut the Grecale and MC20 Cielo at Goodwood.

First revealed in Italy in late March, the 2023 Maserati Grecale crossover will take on the famous hill climb next week, providing a first look for the British audience.

Joining the First Glance class, the Grecale Trofeo – powered by a 390kW 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 – can reach 100km/h in 3.8 seconds on the way to a top speed of 285km/h.

Meanwhile, the 2023 MC20 Cielo convertible will complete the iconic 1.16 mile (1.87 km) course in the Supercar category, ahead of its Australian debut next year.

McLaren Artura GT4

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Meet the racing version of the electrified McLaren Artura… without any electrification.

The McLaren Artura GT4 will make its public debut at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, featuring a non-hybrid version of the turbocharged V6 from the road-going version.

Set to replace the previous 570S GT4, McLaren says the Artura GT4 is more than 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor, which included a twin-turbo V8.

The lack of hybrid technology is due to FIA regulations, according to the British marque. It says the removal of the battery has saved 130kg, with the free space occupied by the fuel cell and auxiliaries required for racing.

Nissan Juke Rally Tribute

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Nissan has transformed its city-slicking 2022 Juke Hybrid with a real-life Rally Tribute version.

First revealed in mid-2021 as a digital concept, the Nissan Juke Hybrid Rally Tribute will join the rally circuit at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Returning to the United Kingdom from the Sahara Desert, the Juke Hybrid Rally Tribute will be showcased by Rob Gill, a experienced rally driver and Motoring Editor for The Sun newspaper.

The electrified rally concept will be joined by a replica of the 1971 East African Safari Rally-winning Nissan 240Z, and the production Juke Hybrid.

Nissan Australia has confirmed there are no current plans to introduce the Juke Hybrid locally.

Polestar 5

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Swedish electric vehicle manufacturer Polestar is moving full steam ahead in 2022.

The 2024 Polestar 5 electric sedan will be uncovered today, June 23, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, just weeks after the Polestar 3 crossover was previewed.

A coupe version of the SUV, badged Polestar 4, was also teased last week.

Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath said the Festival of Speed was the natural venue of choice for the car’s dynamic debut.

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“Goodwood is our favourite place to show our cars in an enthusiast environment,” said Ingenlath.

“Our UK R&D team is doing an amazing job developing the car, and we are proud to be able to highlight their hard work at this early stage.”

The flagship prototype sedan will be joined by the performance-orientated Polestar 2 BST Edition 270 – which will not be available in Australia.

Prodrive P25 Subaru Impreza WRX 22B STI

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British motorsport firm Prodrive has unveiled a reborn Subaru Impreza WRX 22B STI to commemorate 25 years since it debuted.

The two-door P25 has a massive 300kW of power and 600Nm of torque, a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox, launch control, anti-lag technology, and a kerb weight under 1200 kilograms.

Priced from £460,000 (AU$800,000) plus VAT in the United Kingdom, just 25 examples will be produced.

This weekend, one unit will be sent up the world famous Goodwood hillclimb at the Festival of Speed.

Rolls-Royce Black Badge

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Rolls-Royce will showcase its collection of Black Badge vehicles this year.

The collection was first introduced in 2016 and now comprises four members: Ghost, Cullinan, Dawn and Wraith.

All four vehicles are set to be displayed on the Laundry Green, adjacent to Goodwood House.

According to the firm, the sportier range represents 27 per cent of Rolls-Royce sales worldwide, with the Ghost becoming the latest model to receive the Black Badge treatment in 2021.

Two examples of the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost will be on display, with a blue and black unit with red brake calipers joined by a lime green example with a dark carbon-fibre Spirit of Ecstasy located in the VIP area.

Notably, the flagship Phantom is unlikely to join the sportier Black Badge line-up, with its focus on an ultra-luxurious experience.

The Royal Automotive Club of Queensland (RACQ) has settled more than 90 per cent of claims made for damage to cars caused by flooding in the state earlier this year.

Major flooding in February caused a significant spike in motor vehicle claims, with more than 22,500 claims related to the events in south Queensland and New South Wales filed by March.

The RACQ is one of the area’s biggest insurance groups, with the company reporting it received 2667 claims alone off the back of the floods.

However, despite the higher than normal demand for claims to be processed, the insurer has now said over 90 per cent of those made have resulted in total loss cash settlements.

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“We’re processing claims as quickly as possible to help members get back on the road following one of the largest flooding events in Australia’s history,” said RACQ’s General Manager of Claims, Trent Sayers.

“We understand this is a challenging time and we’re committed to being there for impacted members during this process, as well as continuing to serve those with existing insurance claims outside of the flood event.

“RACQ flood-affected car owners can also take advantage of our exclusive agreement with dealerships, including; Eagers, Autopact and Motorama, making the search for a replacement vehicle a little easier.”

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After the rain had eased in March this year, automotive industry groups warned the demand for replacement vehicles could add further delays to the already crippled supply chain of new cars.

Ongoing production stoppages and transport delays overseas have impacted almost every new car coming in to Australia, with a majority of the top 20 models on sale facing some kind of extended wait.

Volkswagen has dropped a teaser image for its forthcoming electric sedan-liftback, with an ID Aero prototype set to debut on June 27.

The pre-production concept study will preview a version of the electric vehicle destined for China in 2023, with other variants set to launch in North America and Europe late next year.

For the global market, the ID Aero will likely adopt the ID.7 nameplate to slot into the Volkswagen line-up as an electric replacement for the Passat – which will not feature a sedan in its next generation.

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A wagon version will join the electric mid-size sedan, possibly badged ID.7 Tourer, with both vehicles based on the ID. Vizzion and more-recent ID. Space Vizzion concepts.

However, as reported by Wheels in February, the electric duo could instead be badged ID.6 Aero.

Volkswagen’s MEB electric architecture will underpin the ID Aero, shared with the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.6 and ID Buzz.

Volkswagen says the ID Aero will measure five metres long, making it larger than the Passat and Arteon.

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The design sketch reveals similarities to the ID. Space Vizzion concept, with LED tail-lights, a full-width light bar, thick chrome window line, and large two-tone machined alloy wheels.

Up front, the ID Aero is expected to retain these similarities, featuring; a full-width light bar stretching across the front corners, aggressive lower air intakes, and a sculpted bumper where a grille would traditionally sit.

The production version of the Volkswagen ID Aero is scheduled to launch in China in the second half of 2023, with production of the global ID.7 model expected to commence in Emden, Germany, late next year.

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A wagon-bodied Passat will remain in the Volkswagen range, with the next-generation internal-combustion model expected to be unveiled in the coming months.

Further information, including specifications, for the ID. Aero is expected on Monday, June 27.

Stay tuned to Wheels for the latest news on the 2023 Volkswagen ID.7.

Bentley has debuted yet another model at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The 2023 Bentley Continental GT Mulliner is equipped with the Speed’s hand-built 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing 485kW of power and 900Nm of torque.

This is an increase of 11kW over the previous W12-powered Continental GT Mulliner, while torque remains unchanged.

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Bentley claims the updated version can complete the zero to 100km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds – an improvement of 0.1s – with a top speed of 335 km/h.

As before, power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

In addition, the revised Continental GT Mulliner features electronic all-wheel steering – joining a 48-volt active anti-roll system, known as Bentley Dynamic Ride, three-chamber air suspension, and an electronic limited-slip differential.

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The 48-volt system includes rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars to improve handling, with the ability to decouple the left and right wheels independently.

As standard, the car is fitted with unique 22-inch alloy wheels that include self-levelling centre caps to ensure the ‘B’ logo is always visible.

A carbon-ceramic braking system is optional to improve the vehicle’s braking performance, which tips the scales at more than two tonnes.

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Inside, the Continental GT Mulliner is offered with eight three-colour combinations – consisting of primary, secondary and accent colourways – and the choice of 88 piano wood veneers.

The cabin features ‘Diamond in Diamond’ quilting on the seats, door trims and rear quarter panels, with the carmaker claiming each diamond has precisely 712 stitches in any desired colour – totalling approximately 400,000 throughout the interior.

Other enhancements include; a Mulliner logo embroidered on the seats, a black walnut veneer across the dashboard, and roof upholstery finished in an indented or smooth hide.

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The brushed-metal look of the analogue Breitling-branded clock has carried across to the digital world, with the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster gaining virtual dials intended to “look like real metal”.

Bentley says the Mulliner combines the performance and dynamics of the Speed with the comfort of the recently-announced Azure range.

As the flagship model in the Continental GT range, buyers can option their Mulliner with a wide array of paint, leather, wood, metal, and stitching combinations.

First revealed in mid-2020, the Continental GT Mulliner joins the W12-powered Flying Spur Mulliner, along with the limited-run Mulliner Bacalar and previous Mulliner vehicles.

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The customisation division was established in the same year, with the bespoke Mulliner nameplate – a brand with almost 500 years of saddle-making and coachbuilding heritage – first acquired by the British marque in 1959.

Bentley has several busy days ahead, with a strong presence at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

It has already debuted the 2023 Continental GT S and Flying Spur S, and it will reveal its next Mulliner project on Friday, June 24.

The Hyundai Veloster will be the next model dumped by the Korean manufacturer, with reports suggesting production of the quirky hatchback is being wrapped up.

According to Korean publication Hankyung, Hyundai will end production of the three-plus-one-door hatchback after an 11-year run, with the Veloster becoming a victim of the manufacturer’s electric vehicle push.

Having been launched in Australia a decade ago, the first-generation Veloster racked up more than 17,000 local sales before the second-generation, i30-based model succeeded it in late 2019 – lasting just over a year before being taken off the local market due to its conventional hatch sibling’s $10,000 discount.

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Hankyung’s report suggests the Veloster has taken a significant hit in popularity thanks to the launch of the i30 Sedan N (known as the Avante N in Korea), with the new four-door model taking away sales from the unconventional hatchback offering.

In a four-month period between January and April, just 99 units of the top-spec Veloster N were sold in its local market – the i30 Sedan N managed 1624 sales in the same period.

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The upcoming fully-electric Kona has also been blamed as a catalyst for the Veloster’s demise, with the latter’s Ulsan 1 plant production line occupying space which could be used for production of the EV crossover.

With the Veloster now disappearing from international showrooms, there is a void in the market for a hatchback with one door on its driver’s side and two on the passenger’s side – a unique layout which likely won’t be repeated.

Audi Australia has appointed company exec Jeff Mannering to the role of Managing Director.

Mannering is currently the Executive Director of Audi Korea, a post he has held since 2019. Before that he was Managing Director of Audi in the Middle East and of Audi Singapore.

The new MD is no stranger to the firm’s Australian arm though, having held senior aftersales roles locally earlier in his career.

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“I am excited to return home to lead the extraordinary team at Audi Australia,” said Mannering.

“Audi is boldly shaping the future of personal, premium mobility around the world, and it’s a mission that I hold very closely. I look forward to sharing in our owners’ enthusiasm for the Audi brand in Australia, and taking them along with us on this exciting journey.”

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Mannering takes up the post from Paul Sansom, who in turn became Group Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Australia from January 1 this year following its merger with Audi Australia.

Prior to that, Sansom had been the MD of Audi Australia since 2017 following a three-year stint in South Africa.

“I am delighted to hand over the reins of Audi Australia to an executive of Jeff’s calibre,” said Mr Sansom.

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“I look forward to seeing Audi continue on its innovative path, as the technological spearhead of Volkswagen Group Australia, to deliver our customers the very best of premium mobility into the future.

“It has been an honour to lead this incredible brand in Australia and I have the fondest memories of all that we have achieved together.

“Jeff has proved his expertise in successfully steering the Audi brand in several markets around the world,” said Andre Konsbruck, Vice President of Sales – Region Overseas at Audi AG.

“I am convinced that Jeff’s broad experience will be of great benefit to Audi Australia, and of course, to our many customers Down Under.”

UPDATE: Model Y Performance driven

We’ve now had our hands on the rapid Tesla Model Y Performance, and it’s as satisfying as you’d hope – but, it isn’t without flaw. We’ve also put the Model Y Performance up against the Kia EV6, because… well, it was just the right thing to do. Get both stories at the links below.

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Elon Musk has promised – via Twitter, naturally – increased right-hand-drive production of the Tesla Model Y after being surprised by initial demand that pushed out delivery times rapidly from second-half 2022 to first-half 2023.

Yet, surely not even an experienced product planner would have been needed to forecast buyer response once official pricing had been confirmed for the company’s most affordable SUV yet.

The Model 3 sedan on which it’s based was already proving popular here before supply issues hit, and the Y has an obvious body-style advantage over the sedan.

The two vehicles are so closely related they share about 75 per cent of their parts. From front-on, it’s even tricky to tell them apart; in profile and from the rear, the Model Y looks like a Model 3 that’s been overdoing the steroids.

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The Model Y is nearly six centimetres longer, touching 4.75 metres, and is seven centimetres wider. The wheelbase is stretched just 1.5cm, leaving height as the most dramatic physical difference; the top of the Y reaches an extra 18cm into the sky.

About three centimetres of that comes in increased ride height, though the Model Y is no pseudo-off-roader with its 167mm ground clearance.

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The Model 3 was already proving popular here before supply issues hit, and the Y has an obvious advantage of being an SUV rather than a sedan.

Pricing and Features

Initial pricing placed the Tesla Model Y starting point at $68,900 – $5000 above the equivalent Model 3.

However, just a week after announcing pricing, Tesla jacked the Y’s entry price to $72,300, just as delivery times were pushing out from latest-November to latest-May-2023. This increased the gap to $6800 after the base 3’s price was also increased.

While Model Y RWD buyers already missed out on $3000 rebates in NSW, Victoria and South Australia as the base model’s price was above incentive thresholds, the sudden increase was a bit naughty – with a perception, wrongly or rightly, that it was a response to big demand.

That’s not to suggest there’s poor value now. Spending more on the Y over the 3 brings more than a bigger vehicle with more interior space. The Model Y RWD entry variant comes with 19-inch wheels where 18s are standard on the base Model 3, as well as a 13-speaker ‘Premium’ audio that’s an option on the 3 RWD.

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Shared features include electric front seats, heated seats front and rear, heated steering wheel, and full-length glass sunroof. Driver aids include blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and forward collision assist.

Options are also similar. White paint is standard, choosing black, silver, or blue (as per our test car) costs $1500, or it’s $2900 for a multi-coat red. It’s another $2900 for 20-inch ‘Induction’ alloy wheels and $1500 for a duo-tone black/white interior rather than pure black.

Old for markets such as the US but new for Australian in 2022 is a $5100 Enhanced Autopilot package, giving buyers access to a bunch of temporary-use autonomous-driving functions.

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These include auto lane-changing, auto overtaking, and auto steering/accelerating/braking for freeway use, self-drive parking manoeuvres, and Smart Summon that (theoretically, at least) allows owners to bring their parked Model Y to them in a car park via the Tesla app.

Full Self Driving Capability offers all those functions plus Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control … and the enticement (when available and legal in Australia) of a properly advanced self-driving computer.

The Model Y has several direct rivals. These include the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (priced from $71,900) and our 2022 Wheels Car of the Year, the Kia EV6 (priced from $67,990).

Other models anticipated for the Australian market include the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Volkswagen ID4.

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The Model Y has several direct rivals. These include the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (priced from $71,900) and our 2022 Wheels Car of the Year, the Kia EV6 (priced from $67,990).

Comfort and space

Model 3 owners switching up to a Model Y will instantly feel at home in the SUV; the interior design is shared along with platform, batteries, and drivetrains.

As befitting an SUV, however, you do sit a bit higher – a combination of 27mm extra ride height and an extra mounting base for the front seats.

The Y trades off a couple of centimetres of front legroom compared with the 3 that we can’t say was obvious – at least without a back-to-back test – though that high roofline brings headroom advantages right from the top of the windscreen.

Front occupants gain an extra 1.7cm of clearance, while there’s almost an extra layer of atmosphere for rear passengers – an increase of nearly 4.5cm.

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Legroom increases by a whopping 13.5cm, achieved with revised packaging that also takes advantage of a slightly longer wheelbase (by 1.5cm) as well as that slightly shortened front legroom.

Unlike the Model 3, the Y’s rear seats also offer a choice of two recline positions (though the EV6 and Ioniq 5 provide a greater range of seatback tilting).

Shoulder room is virtually unchanged and hip space shrinks by 4.5cm despite the Y puffing out by about 7cm in width, according to Tesla’s specs.

A completely flat floor still makes the middle seat viable for an adult, if still the short straw for journeys.

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An impressive tinted sunroof spans virtually the entire roof, a seamless expanse of glass where the model 3’s roof features a middle beam. The glass features UV protection, while accessory sunshades are available for owners concerned about particularly hot days.

A 7-seater version of the Model Y is available in markets such as the US but is an unknown for Australia (yes, we tried asking!). However, US reviews point to the third row being all but unuseable.

Arguably the biggest reason Model 3 owners are being tempted into the Y, or first-time Tesla buyers will pick the SUV, is found in the boot.

Opening the automatic tailgate immediately reveals a far larger aperture than the relatively narrow – though far from impractical – opening of the Model 3’s boot.

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Quoted luggage capacity is a vast – and unrivalled – 854 litres (measured to the roof); a 52 per cent increase over the 3’s 561L boot. In both cases, these figures include underfloor storage.

This is more again in the Y – where it features a larger/wider tub nearest the boot opening, while adding an extra, shallower underfloor section behind that is useful for cables.

Another bonus is two electric release switches, which you hold to fold down the 60-40 rear seats – completely flat. The middle seatback can be flattened individually for a ‘ski trip’ set-up.

Unlike the Model 3, then, the Y will accommodate mountain bikes inside. Or, alternatively, opt for the Roof Rack accessory.

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Up front, there’s a 117-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet – not just larger than the version in the Model 3 (88L) but also more than double the volumes quoted for the EV6 and Ioniq 5 (52L and 54L, respectively)

A 7-seater version of the Model Y is available in markets such as the US but is an unknown for Australia (yes, we tried asking!). However, US reviews point to the third row being all but unuseable.

Back to the cabin, and our test car had the best build quality we’ve experienced yet in a Tesla. Where we’ve always found loose bits of trim, or misaligned joins, everything felt encouragingly tight.

The long, Scandi-inspired wood across the dash and suede-panelled doors lift perceived quality.

The 15-inch central touchscreen shared with the 3 also stands out in that ultra-minimalist dash.

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While previous Tesla owners will get to grips with this display that hoards virtually all car functions, it can be daunting for first-timers – especially as all driving information including the speedo is on the screen.

As with other Teslas, familiarity doesn’t prevent the touchscreen from being a distraction at times on the road, as eyes are averted to press various icons or words that can be quite small.

A head-up display would do wonders for this vehicle.

The design, layout and response are all impressive, though, as is the amount of entertainment options available. There’s an assortment of games, and you can even stream Netflix or YouTube.

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After a 30-day complimentary subscription, owners just need to pay a monthly ($9.99) subscription to retain some of those features. (Sorry, there’s no Wordle feature yet.)

The standard Premium audio system also sounds excellent.

You can also expect the infotainment system to be constantly upgraded via Tesla’s over-the-air updates (though a major update in late 2021 was a mixed result for functionality).

Again, as with the 3, the Y features not one but two charging trays for smartphones, and they’re neatly positioned/angled below the dash.

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On the road

It’s easier to discover the recipe for KFC’s secret sauce than battery and power specs for Teslas, so some presumptions and estimates are needed for the Model Y RWD.

One presumption is that it uses the same circa-60kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery found in the base Model 3, while power/output estimates are 220-240kW and 400-420Nm, based on varying sources.

This makes sense based on the official specs Tesla does provide, as the Model Y RWD is slower and more range limited than the equivalent Model 3 that is 157kg lighter.

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According to Tesla, the Model Y can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds. While that’s slower than the 6.1 seconds of the Model 3, proper perspective comes from comparing rivals.

Rear-drive versions of the EV6 and Ioniq 5, for example, have claims, respectively, of 7.3 and 7.4 seconds.

A much faster Model Y is available with the all-wheel-drive Performance variant, which has a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.7 seconds. It needs to be a major buying priority, though, as the Performance costs about $110,000 on the road.

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According to Tesla, the Model Y can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds. While that’s slower than the 6.1 seconds of the Model 3, proper perspective comes from comparing rivals.

The more important figure for EV buyers/owners is range. And, here, the Model Y RWD has a WLTP-rated maximum range of 455km. That’s below the 491km of its sedan relative, fractionally ahead of the Hyundai’s 451km, but well short of the EV6 RWD’s 528km.

The Model Y Performance has a WLTP range of 514km, while a Long Range variant available overseas but not yet confirmed for Australia serves up a maximum 533km.

EVs are not renowned for ever achieving those lab-derived range estimates, though we were surprised when our testing pointed to a theoretical maximum range of only 335km after our longest drive of the Model Y.

This incorporated about 200km of mostly suburban roads, with some country roads thrown in, and only minimal freeway driving.

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The biggest issue with the Model Y, however, is ride quality. It’s not deal-breaking poor, but it’s certainly not good. The Model 3 is no paragon of smoothness, but the Y’s larger wheels and heavier body compound the suspension’s lack of compliance.

Not only does the Model Y struggle to settle, regardless of surface, but suspension noise can be intrusive.

We’ve yet to test the optional 20-inch wheels, which could further exaggerate the ride issues.

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EVs are not renowned for ever achieving those lab-derived range estimates, though we were surprised when our testing pointed to a theoretical maximum range of only 335km after our longest drive of the Model Y.

Unless you’ve previously driven a Model 3, the ridiculously quick steering – barely two turns lock to lock – can take time to get accustomed to; the front end is reactive to just a small movement of the steering wheel off centre.

This makes the Model Y highly responsive on twisty roads, though the steering is numb even if you choose the Sport mode that adds extra resistance to the wheel. Comfort is the lightest setting, though we’d be happy sticking permanently with the default Standard weighting.

At least the steering wheel is still round, with Tesla’s ‘yoke’ thankfully not migrating from the Model S Plaid.

While Tesla has widened the Model Y’s tracks to help counter the SUV’s higher centre of gravity, it doesn’t feel as composed in corners as the Model 3.

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Keen drivers will derive much greater satisfaction from the EV6, which delivers superior ride comfort, especially in base Air form, and a generally more fluid and relaxing motoring experience.

This extends to throttle pedal usage. In late 2020, Tesla inexplicably – because the company doesn’t operate a PR department – deleted a choice of Standard and Low settings for its regenerative braking system.

The Low mode made for less aggressive deceleration when lifting off the throttle pedal.

Standard, which is stronger and better for harnessing the kinetic braking energy that is turned into electrons to partially replenish the vehicle’s battery, is now the default.

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Even for EV newbies, it shouldn’t take long to feel instinctive. It also delivers one-pedal driving, though maintaining a set speed asks a bit more effort from your right calf muscle than in the EV6 or Ioniq 5 that offer four different levels of regen braking (which can be conveniently adjusted by paddle levers behind the steering wheel).

The Model Y RWD’s acceleration undoubtedly feels slower than the Model 3’s, yet the SUV remains sufficiently, and enjoyably, brisk.

The front seats are comfortable and the view forward is better compared with the Model 3, though the Model Y’s rear vision is very narrow and the side mirrors are smaller than on the average midsized SUV.

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Recharging

The Model Y lacks the super-rapid, 800V charging capability of the EV6 and Ioniq 5, but Tesla provides a bigger real-world benefit – an established network of Superchargers that gives owners greater confidence to venture out on long drives.

The company says it’s possible to add up to 261km of range in just 15 minutes.

The Model Y can also be recharged via CCS ports that most other EVs utilise.

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Invest $780 in a Gen 3 Wall Connector (not including installation costs), and Tesla says you can add about 71km per hour of charging.

It’s also worth noting that for models equipped with an LFP battery (such as the Model Y RWD), Tesla recommends sticking to a 100 per cent charge limit and fully charging the vehicle at least once a week.

Tesla recommends charging to 90 per cent for its AWD models – such as the Model Y Performance – which use a different, Nickel Cobalt Aluminium Oxide (NCA) battery.

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Ownership

Tesla vehicles come with a general four-year/80,000km warranty, with an eight-year/160,000km warranty applied to the battery and drive unit.

The Tesla app is a key pillar of ownership, offering a level of smartphone-based functionality currently unrivalled.

It’s possible to make the key card redundant by connecting it to your phone, then using the lock/unlock function (otherwise entry is achieved by ‘scanning’ the car against the B-pillar).

You can press the respective parts of a birds-eye graphic of the car to open the tailgate or frunk, pre-heat or pre-cool the car before you get to it, and monitor battery life.

This writer’s favourite feature is Location, which provides a map guide to the nearest Tesla Supercharger – select your choice and you can then send the route instructions direct to the Model Y’s navigation on the centre display.

Tesla vehicles come with a general four-year/80,000km warranty, with an eight-year/160,000km warranty applied to the battery and drive unit.

Roadside assistance is complimentary under the main warranty, covering towing (and transport costs up to 800km) in the event of a malfunction, lockouts, and flat tyres.

The latter will be needed if you get a puncture as the Model Y doesn’t come with a spare wheel – and an optional tyre repair kit no longer appears to be available.

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VERDICT

It’s no big shock that the Model Y feels very much like a bigger Model 3, yet justifying its higher premium almost entirely with interior space that is not only more substantial than the sedan’s but unrivalled in its segment.

And against rival EVs, the appeal of Tesla’s relatively expansive Supercharger network – in what is otherwise a lacklustre EV infrastructure in Australia – can’t be underestimated. We just hope owners will manage to extract more range from their Model Y than we did on test.

Ultimately, though, it’s the SUV’s lack of dynamic polish that means the Model Y doesn’t stand out for class leadership like its close relative, the Model 3.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce0PzWrAsuv/

2022 Tesla Model Y specifications

Hyundai Motor Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Michelin to develop next-generation tyres optimised for electric vehicles.

The signing of the agreement, set to last three years, took place at Hyundai’s Namyang Research Center (sic) on Friday, and follows the two parties’ first partnership formed in November 2017 to jointly develop an exclusive tyre for the Ioniq 5.“This partnership with Michelin will result in real innovations in tyre technology, solidifying Hyundai Motor Group’s position as a leader in the smart mobility industry,” the Group’s Vice President, Bong-soo Kim, said.

“By fully leveraging our mobility technology and Michelin’s tyre expertise, we are confident in our ability to achieve ground-breaking innovations in tyre performance enhancement and create synergies in this organic collaboration.”

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The next-generation tyres resulting from the collaboration will find their way onto future Hyundai Group EVs.

The Group and Michelin also plan to conduct joint research to analyse tyre wear, load and road friction beyond the current standards of temperature and air pressure. The new tyres are also expected to significantly improve drivers’ ride comfort by reducing vibration and noise generated by EVs at high speeds.

It’s said the venture will also explore ways to raise the use of eco-friendly materials in tyres to about 50 per cent of their total weight, up from 20 per cent currently.

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“The collaboration between Hyundai Motor Group and Michelin over the past five years contributed to the successful launch of the Hyundai Ioniq 5,” said Georges Levy, Executive Vice President of Automotive Original Equipment at Michelin.

“We are pleased to announce that the relationship has been extended for three more years to continue our work together on new technologies in favour of safer, cleaner mobility.

“The association between Hyundai Motor Group and Michelin is founded on the same vision and on a shared passion for excellence, performance and innovation that have become increasingly essential factors as we rise to the mobility-related challenges we all face today.”

Bentley is to reveal the next vehicle to come from its Mulliner department at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The announcement is expected to be made this Friday by Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Adrian Hallmark, on the carmaker’s stand at the event.

No details are yet known about what the company has planned, with Bentley only saying: “The next Mulliner adventure will again combine exceptional design, engineering and handcraftsmanship in world-leading ways to create a new family of highly exclusive Bentleys.”

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This year’s Goodwood has been a busy time for the British marque, having already used the Festival to debut its new S range of models – the GT S and the Flying Spur S – to reveal a new Continental GT Mulliner, to celebrate 40 years of turbocharged Bentleys.

All of these cars will be joined on the famous hillclimb by the Blower Continuation Series Car Zero.

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Established in 2020 with the reveal of the Bacalar roadster, Mulliner completed its first production spec vehicles last year.

The first of the two vehicles, the Bacalar is a V12 two-seater limited to just 12 units.

The second car to come from the Mulliner workshop is the first from its Continuation Series – a recreation of a 1929 Blower Bentley, as originally raced by Sir Tim Birkin.

In period correct Birkin green, the recreated vehicle is an identical replica to the Bentley Team Car No. 2 upon which it is based, right down to its leather interior trim and wire wheels.