KGM has confirmed it will enter Australia’s electric-ute market with the Musso EV, the brand’s first battery-powered pickup and a model it hopes will appeal to buyers wanting a dual-purpose family and recreational vehicle. The company says the new model builds on the long-running Musso nameplate, which has been part of Korea’s ute landscape for decades.

KGM Australia managing director Joseph Lee said the Musso EV marked an important step for the local operation, positioning the brand in a segment that is expected to grow rapidly as more electric options arrive. The launch comes as rival manufacturers prepare their own electric workhorses for Australian roads.

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Externally, the Musso EV carries over the upright, muscular proportions of the existing Musso but introduces a more EV-oriented front-end design. LED daytime running lights, a reshaped grille and revised bumper give it a more streamlined look, while the tub and cabin are tied together with strong body lines and prominent wheel arches. KGM has also added a new “Rhino” emblem on the C-pillar to link the model to previous generations.

The interior receives one of the most significant updates. A widescreen layout combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with a similarly sized central touchscreen running the brand’s new Athena 2.0 software platform. Higher-spec variants offer heating and cooling for the front seats, ambient lighting and a focus on improved rear-seat comfort, including sliding and reclining functions.

Pricing

Load space mirrors the existing Musso, including eight tie-down points, a standard tub liner and lighting for night use. KGM says interior headroom and rear legroom exceed what is typical for a mid-size SUV, underscoring the model’s dual-purpose pitch. Self-levelling rear suspension is standard across the range, designed to maintain ride height when the vehicle is heavily loaded or towing.

Power comes from an 80.6 kWh LFP battery. The 2WD variant uses a 152 kW front motor with 339 Nm, while the AWD version adds a second motor at the rear for a total of 175 kW and 630 Nm. KGM claims the 2WD model can travel up to 420 kilometres on a charge, with the AWD version rated at 380 kilometres. Both support 300 kW DC fast charging, allowing a 20 to 80 per cent recharge in about half an hour. Vehicle-to-load capability is also included.

KGM will launch the Musso EV in 2WD and AWD configurations, with a 2WD “Black Edge” edition also joining the range. Pricing and final specifications will be announced closer to the model’s arrival.

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Equipment

Musso EV 2WD

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• 17” Alloy Wheels
• LED Headlights, taillights and DRLs
• Self-levelling rear suspension
• Dual-zone climate control
• Integrated panoramic display with 12.3” dual display LCD instrument cluster and touch screen infotainment
• Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™
• 3D 360° camera
• Leather look 8-way powered front seats with powered driver seat lumbar
• Sliding, folding and reclining 60/40 rear seats
• Heated front and rear outer seats
• Ventilated front seats
• Ambient interior lighting
• Leather heated steering wheel
• Heated, power adjustable and power folding door mirrors
• Rain sensing wipers
• Wireless phone charger
• Durable rear tub liner with lighting and bumper corner steps

Musso EV AWD adds All Wheel Drive (AWD)

Musso EV 2WD Black Edge

Musso EV 2WD highlights with:

• Leather and suede seats
• Suede headrests and door trim section
• Black 17” alloy wheels
• Black exterior highlights:
  • Bonnet garnish
  • Door mirrors
  • Tailgate badge
  • Sail plane
  • Front bumper trim
  • C-Pillar emblem
• Black steering wheel bezel
• Dark wood grain dash trim

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Specs

Australian battery manufacturer Century Batteries has accelerated its Supercars presence, today unveiling a new partnership with Triple Eight Race Engineering as Official Battery Partner of the Red Bull Ampol Racing team.

Australian-made Century remains the Official Battery Partner of the Repco Supercars Championship and will once again return as naming rights sponsor for the Century Batteries Ipswich Super 440 in 2026.

Shaun O’Brien, General Manager, Automotive at Century Yuasa, said the partnership marked
a major milestone for Australia’s oldest battery manufacturer. “This partnership is a huge step forward for Century Batteries. We’ve supported the Supercars Championship for years, and now we’re proud to partner with one of its most successful and respected teams,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Triple Eight has built a legacy on performance, innovation and consistency – values that align
perfectly with our own. We’re excited to be part of their 2026 campaign and everything that
comes with it.”

The 2026 Supercars championship will commence on February 20, 2026 with the Sydney 500 at Sydney Motorsport Park.

MG Motor Australia has announced local pricing and specifications for the 2026 MG ZS, which is priced from $25,888 drive away for the new Vibe Turbo+ variant and adds a new turbocharged engine.

The ZS Hybrid+ is still available, and has seen minor software changes to improve its driving experience.

Central to the upgraded MY26 MG ZS range is the 125kW/275Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that used to be limited to upper-spec variants in the range. Now, all petrol ZS models feature it as standard and for less money than before, priced from $25,888 drive away for the Vibe model.

The other available drivetrain in the ZS, the 158kW 1.5-litre Hybrid+, now features updated software and other changes. According to MG, it delivers “greater power, stronger performance over 4000 rpm, smoother take-off and quieter cruising for real-world gains”. Drivers should expected more control in town, smooth performance on the highway, and extra punch with innovative two-speed transition technology allowing high-speed efficiency, according to MG.

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Other changes to the MY26 MG ZS range include tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment for the whole range and a front-centre airbag for the whole range.

“Our philosophy with the MG ZS MY26 Vibe variant was simple: end the compromise,” said Kevin Gannon, Business Director of MG Motor Australia. “The new MG ZS MY26 range raises the bar when you think in terms of bang for your buck and fun factor in the compact SUV segment in Australia. Offering our potent 1.5L turbo engine in our most affordable Vibe variant gives the best power and performance for the price.”

2026 MG ZS pricing (drive away):

Few cars are as closely related as the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage mid-size SUVs. They share platforms, powertrains and equipment, and prices are virtually lineball across their entire ranges. 

It seems the Australian buying public can’t split them, either, as the Tucson and Sportage have sold 16,662 and 16,621 examples respectively as of October 202, so to see if there’s a clear case for one over the other, let’s run through their specifications with a fine-tooth comb. 

Pricing 

Those who suffer from paralysis in the face of choice might struggle with the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage price lists. Hyundai offers three trim levels, each with a range of powertrains, while Kia one-ups this with four trim levels and even more powertrain options. 

What’s more, the cost associated with the more advanced powertrains means there is plenty of overlap between lower variants thus equipped and higher variants with a more basic engine – sheesh. 

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In terms of pricing, the Sportage starts and ends a fraction higher, but for the purposes of this article we’ll throw a dart in the middle and compare the Tucson Hybrid Elite AWD (all-wheel drive) and the Sportage SX+ Diesel AWD, which are separated by just $130 at $50,850 and $50,980 respectively, both prices before on-road costs. 

While comparing hybrid and diesel might sound odd, it’ll give us a chance to see how the running costs of these differing powertrains stack up in cars that are otherwise very similar. 

For a long time Kia’s seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty was a real USP, but Hyundai recently matched it, with the stipulation that you must service at an authorised Hyundai dealer.  

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Hyundai also offers roadside assistance for the lifetime of the vehicle, extended by 12 months every time it’s serviced, while Kia offers a similar level of cover up to eight years. 

Being hybrid, the Hyundai’s service intervals are shorter at 12 months or 10,000km with a five-year prepaid service plan costing $2042. The diesel Kia only requires attention every 12 months or 15,000km but will set you back $2708 over the same five-year period.  

*plus on-road costs 

Dimensions 

Unsurprisingly given their similarities under the skin, there isn’t much between the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage in terms of size. The two are identical in width, height and wheelbase, though the Kia has an extra 45mm in length. 

The hybrid Tucson is fractionally heavier but has more storage space thanks to using a space-saver rather than a full-size spare, though it’s the same situation in the hybrid version of the Sportage. Like-for-like, there’s a sheet of paper between them. 

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Equipment 

While none of the model grades are an exact match, the Hyundai Tucson Elite and Kia Sportage SX+ line up very, very similarly across the board. There are slight differences – the Hyundai has full LED headlights, the Kia has a heated steering wheel – but in general they have all the equipment buyers would want. 

Heated front seats, powered driver’s seats (though the passengers’ are DIY), dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, auto lights and wipers, power tailgates and plenty of USB-C ports. 

Both manufacturers charge extra for a colour other than white, Hyundai offering six other options at $750 while Kia has another eight choices at $600. 

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Powertrains 

On paper this is a clear victory for the hybrid Hyundai, which offers more power (though a little less torque) and a clear fuel efficiency advantage, but there’s a little more nuance to it than that. 

Digging into the fuel consumption numbers further, the diesel Kia claims 7.7L/100km in urban use and 5.4L/100km in extra-urban (eg highway) use, whereas the Hyundai claims 3.6L/100km and 6.5L/100km respectively. 

Put simply, the stop-start nature of urban traffic plays to the strengths of the hybrid Tucson, whereas the Sportage is at its most efficient at a steady-state cruise, something to consider when making your choice. 

Both cars can tow a maximum of 1900kg braked, but the downball limit is only 100kg. 

Safety 

Both the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage carry five-star ANCAP safety ratings, the former from 2021 and the latter from 2022. Once again, given the two cars’ similarities it should come as no surprise that they scored almost identically. 

The Hyundai scored 86 per cent for adult occupant protection, 87 per cent for child occupant protection, 66 per cent for vulnerable road user protection and 70 per cent for safety assist, while for the same metrics the Kia scored 87 per cent, 87 per cent, 66 per cent and 74 per cent respectively.  

While undoubtedly safe, it’s worth noting that Hyundai and Kia have some of the more annoying safety nannies on the market, with regular bing and bongs and lane-assist systems that love to wrestle the steering wheel in your hands. 

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Technology 

It’s tit-for-tat in terms of tech, with both the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage having sizeable infotainment screens with wireless smartphone mirroring, digital radio, app connectivity and sat-nav with live traffic information.  

The only real difference between the two is the digital instrument display, the Hyundai using the full-width 12.3-inch unit and the Kia the basic 4.0-inch version. But then, the Sportage has an eight-speaker premium stereo compared to the Tucson’s six.  

Conclusion 

There’s no wrong choice here. The Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage are so similar in terms of price, size and equipment that whichever one you choose will provide comfortable and frugal family transportation. 

Kia Sportage

Kia’s retention of the diesel engine will probably make it the pick for regional buyers, where its highway fuel economy and longer service intervals will be an advantage, even with the slightly higher servicing costs. The SX+ is a sweet spot in the range in terms of price vs equipment, too. 

Hyundai Tucson

For urbanites the Tucson is the better choice, with more equipment than the closest equivalent hybrid Sportage (the SX), though if you’re remaining within the city confines, you’re probably better off saving $2500 and opting for the front-wheel drive Tucson Hybrid Elite.  

The December issue of Wheels lands is now on sale with a combo of heritage, hard-driving performance and sharp automotive insight — the perfect summer read for car lovers.

Leading us this issue is a frank and fiery Wheels Interview with Australia’s 1980 Formula One world champion Alan Jones. Now 80, Jones hasn’t lost an ounce of the candour that made him a motorsport icon. He reflects on Oscar Piastri’s ascent, the evolution of F1, and why modern racing both impresses and infuriates him in equal measure.

Family legacy also takes centre stage in Ford Family, where William Clay Ford Jr reveals how the descendants of Henry Ford have managed to retain influence over the Blue Oval for more than a century. As his own sons step into key roles, Ford opens up about continuity, pressure and preparing the brand for an electric new era.

Closer to home, our cover story sees our new Ed Trent Nikolic give Australia’s favourite workhorse in the form of the revamped Toyota HiLux a taste tester. With fresh exterior styling and updated cabin tech, we ask whether Toyota has done enough to keep the HiLux at the top of the sales charts as competition intensifies.

Performance lovers won’t want to miss Ferrari 296 Speciale, in which Trent gets rare seat time at the legendary Fiorano test track. His verdict on Maranello’s latest masterpiece? Equal parts terrifying and transcendent. Meanwhile, Andy Enright revisits an engineering enigma in Modern Classic: Jaguar XJ220, exploring how a troubled birth couldn’t tarnish the legacy of this stunning ’90s supercar.

The month’s First Drives section spans the spectrum: the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e impresses with quiet PHEV refinement; Toyota’s GR Supra Track Edition delivers thrills in its final outing; the Nissan Patrol Warrior bids farewell in suitably muscular fashion; and Porsche’s 992.2 GT3 demonstrates just how difficult making “automotive art” has become. There’s also sharper value from Mazda’s CX-60 G25, a timely hybrid offering from MG’s HS Hybrid+, updates to Volvo’s popular XC60, Chery’s premium push with the Jaecoo J7 PHEV, and Isuzu’s new 2.2-litre engine across D-Max and MU-X.

Rounding out the issue, Michael Stahl reflects on the shape of future cars he once imagined, while Paul Gover laments the lost art of changing a tyre… often because there’s no tyre with which to make a change.

The December issue of Wheels is on sale now. Subscribe here and gain access to 12 issues for $109 plus online access to every Wheels issue since 1953.

New South Wales’ regional roads minister has sharply rejected a federal proposal to lower speed limits on rural and regional roads, intensifying a national debate over how best to curb Australia’s rising road toll.

Jenny Aitchison, NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, told state parliament this week that the state “does not support blanket speed zone reviews across NSW,” distancing the Minns Government from a key recommendation in the Commonwealth’s Regulatory Impact Analysis, which proposes reducing the default 100km/h limit on unsigned country roads to between 70km/h and 90km/h.

The proposal, released as part of the National Road Safety Action Plan, argues that Australia’s open-road defaults are among the world’s highest and often unsafe given deteriorating infrastructure. The federal Department of Infrastructure and Transport noted that most of the nation’s rural fatalities occur on roads where “conditions can vary widely, are frequently poor, and do not always support driving safely at 100 km/h.” Public submissions closed on November 10.

Aitchison was unequivocal that NSW would not adopt the recommended changes, reported Yahoo News. On social media she reiterated: “The NSW Government will not be implementing blanket speed zone reductions across regional NSW.” Her comments come as communities prepare to honour the 313 people killed on the state’s roads so far this year — a figure up 20 per cent on 2023.

Rural groups have also pushed back. NSW Farmers president Xavier Martin said lowering limits would not address the core issue: failing regional infrastructure. “Band-aid solutions won’t fix the problem of crumbling roads and bridges,” he told The Land. “It’s not the speed limits that are the problem… it’s the fact that our roads aren’t as safe as they used to be.”

But safety experts and advocacy groups maintain reducing default speeds is essential. International comparisons show many countries have dropped rural defaults to 90 km/h or lower. Sweden’s unsigned rural roads, for example, sit at 70 km/h. The WA Centre for Road Safety Research’s director, Teresa Senserric, has previously argued that high Australian defaults leave a dangerously small margin for error.

Safer Australian Roads and Highways president Peter Frazer says lowering limits would save lives. “When we have dangerous roads, absolutely we should be talking about speed reduction so we can get people home safe,” he said.

With 860,000 kilometres of unsealed roads nationwide and road deaths rising 10 per cent between 2020 and 2024, the federal government argues the status quo is untenable. Whether states agree remains the next battleground in Australia’s road-safety debate.

Holden’s death as a homegrown car-maker in 2021 still causes pain across Australia and had a big effect on the local car market. While many of its former customers have moved on, there’s certainly a Holden-sized hole for car buyers, especially when it comes to good value performance cars like V8-powered family sedans.

With that, we tasked AI with imagining what Holden’s potential line-up would look like in 2025. We added electric vehicles, hybrids and even took a page out of its older models to create a virtual 2025 Holden showroom. Take a look:

Nova

With the Cruze (the Astra sedan when it was last sold in Australia) no longer produced, Holden might have had to get creative with sourcing a small car. With a hybrid powertrain a must for NVES compliance, why not turn to one of the best producers of this vehicle type globally and recreate an old badge engineering situation: the Holden Nova, based on the Toyota Corolla.

The E90 and E100 generation Corollas were badge engineered and sold as the Holden Nova in Australia from 1989 to 1996, something Holden could’ve easily recreated for modern audiences – Toyota already gave the Corolla wagon and RAV4 to Suzuki to sell in European markets, so it could do the same for Australia too. Plus, Holden could even rebadge the GR Corolla for a hot hatch.

Barina Cross

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The Barina is a legendary nameplate that graced various generations of Holden from 1985 to 2018 and with the last-generation model no longer sold globally, Holden could have based the Barina Cross on the previous shape Trax to serve as its entry-level SUV.

Engine options would include the 1.8-litre naturally aspirated and 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engines, and there would no doubt have to be some sort of hybrid option needed. Pricing would likely start at around $25,000 range for the base LS and it would compete against cars such as the Hyundai Venue and Kia Stonic.

Trax

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The Holden Trax nameplate is not new with the previous-generation model selling quite well in Australia. However, the Trax is actually one of the few cars previously sold by Holden that’s still in production, meaning that Holden could easily import it now. Competition to the Trax would be fierce and include rivals such as the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona.

In North America, the Trax uses a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, something we think would have to be upgraded to at least a 1.5-litre engine if sold in Australia, plus the inevitable hybrid model too. The latest Trax sells well in North America and we’re sure that it would do the same in Australia under Holden’s guidance.

Apollo

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The original Apollo was sold from 1989 to 1997, until it was replaced by the European-made Vectra. Like the Nova, the Apollo was based on a Toyota product, in this case, the SV21 and XV10 Camrys. For the new Apollo, especially considering that Chevrolet no longer makes a mid-size sedan for the North American market that Holden could take, the current shape XV50 Camry would form the base.

For drivetrains, the popular 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine in the Camry would likely form the majority of the range, though perhaps with a non-hybrid model too – maybe even the 3.5-litre Toyota V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Equinox EV

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In 2025, car makers need to sell electric SUVs and Holden has a few good choices available from Chevrolet’s lineup. We think the Equinox EV would be the best choice because it’s affordable, spacious and gives good driving range, plus it’s also attractive to look at and well equipped across its range. It’s also good value for money against competition such as the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Priced from US$33,600 (around AUD$51,000 at current exchange rates, but Holden would definitely be able to price it better) and giving over 500km of range, the Equinox EV would be quite competitive in the mid-size electric SUV segment in Australia as part of Holden’s lineup.

Commodore

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Even though large sedan sales are small compared to what they once were, Holden couldn’t exist in 2025 without the iconic Commodore in its lineup. Using the VF and its Zeta platform as a basis, the next-generation model – perhaps codenamed ‘VG’ – would use a turbocharged 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that is used in some US market GM products, as well as a V8-powered SS using a 6.2-litre V8. A four-cylinder hybrid model could be added as well, perhaps based on the 2.7-litre turbo engine.

Both sedan and Sportswagon variants would be available and while an eight-speed automatic would be standard across the range, certain models like the SS would be available with a six-speed manual as well. Pricing would kick off in the low $40,000 range, expanding to around $70,000 for top-spec models.

Traverse

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A big seven-seat SUV is another necessary product for Holden to sell in 2025 as families love them. Holden’s last seven-seat SUV was the Acadia from GM’s GMC brand, and this time around, we think Holden should sell the Chevrolet equivalent, which is called the Traverse. Why a Chevy and not a GMC? Well it all comes down to brand image and keeping a similar look – the Acadia looked different to any other Holden because it was the only GMC, and buyers noticed.

The Traverse is priced from around US$41,000 ($63,000 AUD) in entry-level LT form, and the whole range uses a 245kW 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, though a hybrid drivetrain would also need to be added to the range. With seating for eight, good value for money, a big range of variants including an off-road special Z71 and punchy drivetrains, the Holden Traverse would be a big-seller in the local market.

Colorado

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To be successful in Australia, a car brand must sell a ute and the previous Holden Colorado was quite a successful product and while it’s no longer produced – General Motors Thailand no longer exists and its factory was sold to GWM – there is a Chevrolet Colorado sold in North America that Holden could sell in Australia. Why sell a ute? Just look how well the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger sell here.

The only engine option for the North American Colorado is a 231kW 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while it can tow the benchmark 3.5-tonne that utes must be capable of in Australia. Pricing in the US for the current Colorado starts at US$32,000 (around AUD $50,000) for the entry-level WT and hits US$50,000 ($78,000 AUD), which is right in the mix of dual-cab utes in Australia today.

It’s common to lament that there are no cheap new cars left, but that’s not necessarily the case as this list of the 10 cheapest new cars in Australia will prove. 

While the entry point to a new car has certainly risen over the years, for that you can blame good old inflation.  

In the last 25 years, inflation has been responsible for halving the purchasing power of a dollar (ie the same product will be twice as expensive). In 2000 the cheapest new car was the Daewoo Matiz at an eye-catching $9990, which is a tick over $20,000 in 2025 money. 

And wouldn’t you know it? The cheapest car on this list is $19,190, basically bang-on. But without further ado, if you’re after some new wheels on a budget, here are your choices. All prices are plus on-road costs unless otherwise stated. 

Kia Picanto Sport 

Price: $19,190 (manual); $20,790 (auto) 

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One segment that has shrunk significantly is small passenger cars. In 2019, there were 19 options in the micro and light segments, a figure that has shrunk to just six today. 

Of those the Kia Picanto remains the cheapest (though it’s a close-run thing with our next contender), its RRP remaining just under the $20,000 mark. 

For this you score a white five-speed manual, any other colour adding $550 and the four-speed automatic another $1600. The manual is also more frugal, with a combined claim of 5.4L/100km compared to 6L/100km for the auto, with all variants powered by a 62kW/122Nm 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.  

The equipment list is also much more grown-up, with a comprehensive active safety suite and wireless smartphone mirroring, though for those who want a little more style, the GT-Line isn’t much more at $20,990 (manual). 

MG3 Vibe  

Price: $21,990 driveaway 

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Since its introduction, the MG3 has been the sales king of the light car segment. The new-generation model doesn’t have the super-sharp price tag of its predecessor but at $21,990 driveaway for the entry-level Vibe it still offers a lot of metal for the money. 

It’s also a much-improved package, especially in terms of safety, and there’s even a hybrid, though this starts at $28,990 driveaway. 

Budget conscious buyers will receive an 81kW/142Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol mated to a CVT transmission and MG offers 10 years and 250,000km of warranty coverage if you service with the brand (seven years and unlimited kilometres as standard).  

Even the entry Vibe has a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wired smartphone mirroring, a six-speaker stereo, central locking, air-con and plenty of active safety goodies including adaptive cruise control. 

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Urban  

Price: $23,990 driveaway 

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From its launch in late 2024 the Chery Tiggo Pro 4 has rocketed up the sales charts and a big part of that success – it was the second best-selling small SUV in October 2025 – is its bargain $23,990 driveaway price tag, making it Australia’s equal-cheapest SUV. 

The price might be small but the equipment list is large, with even the base model scoring a massive array of safety equipment, dual-zone climate control (with rear air vents), reach- and height-adjustable steering wheel, LED headlights and taillights, rain-sensing wipers and more. 

Then there’s the showroom appeal of dual 10.25-inch digital displays for the infotainment and instruments, a six-speaker stereo, wireless smartphone mirroring and digital radio. Little wonder it’s proving popular. 

Under the bonnet is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 108kW/210Nm, pretty robust numbers for this segment. 

Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5L 

Price: $23,990 driveaway  

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It might have a name like an internet-generated password, but the Mahindra XUV 3XO is another value-packed small SUV with an eye-opening price tag of just $23,990 driveaway. 

Like its close rival, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, this hasn’t precluded Mahindra stuffing the spec sheet, though with a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder producing 82kW/200Nm it does cede some power. 

Nevertheless, standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, twin 10.25-inch displays for the instruments and infotainment, keyless entry and start, wireless smartphone mirroring, 16-inch wheels, auto lights and wipers and a six-speaker stereo. 

While we’re focusing on the cheapest variant of each model on this list, it’s worth mentioning that for another $3000 – so still a very reasonable $26,990 driveaway – both the Chery and Mahindra add luxuries like panoramic glass roofs, artificial leather upholstery, premium stereos and 360-degree cameras. 

Hyundai Venue 

Price: $23,000 (manual); $25,000 (auto) 

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As Hyundai pushes relentlessly upmarket with models like the Palisade and IONIQ 9, it’s easy to forget that it hasn’t abandoned its roots in offering simple, affordable transport like the Venue small SUV. 

Compared to the two vehicles we just covered it does miss out on some kit, including keyless start, LED lighting, sat-nav and digital radio as well as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and parking sensors on the safety side. 

However, it still has the basics like wireless smartphone mirroring on the 8.0-inch infotainment screen, autonomous emergency braking, cruise control and keyless start and Hyundai now offers a seven-year warranty, extending peace of mind. 

BYD Atto 1

Price: $23,990

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The imminent BYD Atto 1 – arriving in Australia in December 2025 – marks a strategic move by BYD into the more affordable electric-vehicle segment, with very accessible pricing for the entry ‘Essential’ version.

Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, the Atto 1 measures approximately 3990 mm long with a 2500 mm wheelbase. The line-up consists of two electric battery-motor variants: the Essential utilises a 30 kWh battery (220 km WLTP) and a 65 kW/175 Nm motor, achieving 0-100 km/h in about 11.1 seconds. The Premium variant ups the ante with a 43.2 kWh battery (310 km WLTP), a 115 kW/220 Nm motor and a quicker 0-100 km/h time of around 9.1 seconds.

Charging is flexible: the entry version supports up to 65 kW DC fast-charging to 80 per cent in about 30 minutes, and 11 kW AC charging to full in 3.5 hours; the Premium boosts DC fast charging to 85 kW. Inside, standard safety tech includes six airbags, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist and more.

The Atto 1 will be a tempting path into EV ownership for many Aussies, positioned as Australia’s new cheapest electric car.

Suzuki Swift Hybrid 

Price: $24,990 (manual); $25,990 (auto) 

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Here is the perfect example of how cars haven’t really gotten any more expensive over the years (though plenty of things have!). An ad for the Suzuki Swift sedan from 1991 found on social media revealed a $10,990 price tag, which equates to $26,250 today. 

In those terms, the current Swift’s $24,990 starting point is good value, though to get to that level Suzuki has had to be quite ruthless with the spec list. On the plus side, there’s a 9.0-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, satellite navigation and digital radio. 

There’s also a fairly comprehensive active safety suite including adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start and heated door mirrors, but the base model does without rear air vents, front seat height adjustment, USB ports, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and the stereo has only two speakers. 

Despite what the name suggests, it is the mildest of mild hybrids, yet the 61kW/112Nm 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine is very frugal with a combined claim of 3.8L/100km for the manual and 4.0L/100km for the CVT automatic.  

MG ZS Vibe 

Price: $25,990 driveaway 

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At this price point you aren’t going to score MG’s new ZS with a powerful turbo engine or its frugal hybrid powertrain, instead you’ll have a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol with 81kW/140Nm which is claimed to use 6.7L/100km on the combined cycle. 

One of the ZS’s biggest selling points is its voluminous 443-litre boot, a good 100 litres more than that offered by smaller SUVs at this price point, while MG also hasn’t skimped on the active safety equipment, with the only omission compared to the higher-spec variants a 360-degree camera. 

There’s no full digital instrument cluster, rear air vents or USB ports, keyless entry or LED headlights at this level, but there is a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wired smartphone mirroring, digital radio and satellite navigation. And don’t forget that impressive 10-year/250,000km warranty if you service with MG. 

Kia Stonic S 

Price: $26,160  

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Kia’s second entrant on our list is the Stonic small SUV, powered by a 74kW/172Nm three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine driving the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. 

The Stonic S isn’t completely bare bones, including a single USB port, height adjustment for the driver’s seat, front and rear parking sensors, a digital instrument cluster, six-speaker stereo and wireless smartphone mirroring for the 8.0-inch infotainment. 

Satellite navigation and digital radio are conspicuous by their absence, however, as are keyless start, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.  

Pictured is the updated 2026 model which, it should be noted, will rise in price, the range starting at $28,180 plus on-road costs for the entry-level S, and climbs to $35,740 +ORC for the top-spec GT-Line. Compared with the current Stonic, pricing for the facelifted model will start $2040 higher for the S, $3000 higher for the Sport and $3260 more for the GT-Line.

A seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty is offered as well as up to eight years of roadside assistance, the initial one-year subscription topped up by 12 months every time you visit an authorised Kia dealer. 

GWM Haval Jolion Premium

Price: $26,990 driveaway 

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When it comes to sheer volume of car for your dollar, the GWM Haval Jolion Premium – despite the name it’s the first rung on the ladder – is tough to beat. At 4472mm long, 1874mm wide and 1581mm tall, it’s 332mm longer, 114mm wider and 81mm taller than the Kia Stonic which effectively makes it a class bigger. 

All petrol Jolions use a 105kW/210Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and front-wheel drive, though in terms of equipment GWM-Haval saves most of the good stuff for the next rung up (the extra $3000 for the Lux is probably money well spent). 

Nevertheless, there’s keyless entry and start, rear air vents, a pair of USB ports in the front and rear, auto wipers, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wired smartphone mirroring and loads of active safety equipment, including the adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert missing from other cars on this list. 

Each year dozens of concept cars are revealed at motor shows the world over in many different forms. Some are futuristic flights of fancy, others preview an upcoming design language and then there are those that look production ready. 

Every now and then a manufacturer will reveal a car that looks a set of number plates away from the showroom, which only makes it all the more galling when the situation doesn’t eventuate.  

This is our list of the top 10 cars that coulda-woulda-shoulda made production only to slip through our grasp, presented in alphabetical order. 

Audi Quattro 

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Reviving the most iconic nameplate in your brand’s history is always fraught with danger, but the Audi quattro concept, revealed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, walked the walk. 

The RS5 donated its platform, albeit with 150mm cut out of the wheelbase in a nod to the original Sport Quattro, and composite panels helped keep weight to just 1300kg. 

A 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder sent 300kW to all four wheels via a six-speed manual (though no doubt a seven-speed dual-clutch would’ve been a necessity for production) for a 0-100km/h claim of around 4.0sec, but sadly it was ditched in favour of more SUVs. 

BMW Vision M Next

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 The BMW i8 broke new ground in the supercar segment and the Vision M Next would’ve been the perfect successor, taking the carbon-bodied, plug-in hybrid concept and taking it to the next level. 

A mid-mounted turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motors combined to send 441kW to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox for a 0-100km/h sprint of 3.0sec and a top speed of 300km/h. 

On the other side of the ledger was a pure EV range of 100km making the Vision M Next the perfect supercar for the modern age, but sadly BMW decided to dedicate all its resources to the coming electrification revolution instead. 

Cadillac Ciel 

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Cadillac was once synonymous with absolute luxury, an American Rolls-Royce that could stake a claim as making the best cars in the world. However, like an automotive Elvis, it eventually became a bloated pastiche of its glory years. 

The tides began to turn in the early-2000s with cars like the CTS and at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Cadillac unveiled the stunning Ciel, an ultra-luxury four-seat convertible powered by a 317kW 3.6-litre twin-turbo hybrid V6. 

It followed this up with the Elmiraj in 2013, a coupe version with a 373kW/678Nm 4.5-litre twin-turbo V8 and both would’ve been the perfect flagships for a resurgent premium brand. 

Sadly, neither reached production, but the idea behind them lives on in the US$340,000 battery electric Celestiq.    

Holden Torana GTR-X 

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Australia’s answer to the Datsun 240Z had all the ingredients to be an all-time great. Fantastic, futuristic looks, a classy interior and a potent inline-six powering the rear wheels – all the ingredients bar a business case. 

Holden came very close to producing the GTR-X with prototypes undergoing testing at Lang Lang but, in the end, it’s believed the newly released 240Z’s price was too sharp to compete with and the project was shut down with just one running vehicle surviving. 

Honda NSX V10 

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The idea of a front-engined Honda NSX might be difficult to get your head around, but we’ll forgive almost anything for a screaming 5.5-litre V10. The new NSX was already pounding around the Nurburgring, its soundtrack revealing a dual-clutch gearbox, though all-wheel drive was also rumoured. 

Then the Global Financial Crisis hit, Honda’s profits plunged and not only did the NSX V10 die but Honda’s F1 program went with it. The spirit of the car lived on, however, as the HSV-010 which competed in the Japanese Super GT championship with a 3.4-litre V8, winning the championship in its debut season. 

Jaguar C-X75 

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Here is one that did make production. Sort of. The C-X75 concept was radical, its four electric motors recharged by two diesel-fed gas turbines, which became a pair of electric motors fed by a 1.6-litre twin-charged engine for the mooted production car. 

With 634kW and all-wheel drive, the expected figures were 0-100km/h in less than three seconds, a 322km/h+ top speed and CO2 emissions of less than 99g/km but Jaguar was unwilling to release a million-dollar supercar into an economically uncertain market. 

Several stunt cars were provided for the James Bond film Spectre powered by Jag’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 and designer Ian Callum, through his firm Callum Designs, engineered one for road use before creating a one-off production example for another customer.  

Lamborghini Miura 

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When the Miura concept was revealed in 2006 to commemorate the 40^th anniversary of what is commonly held to be the world’s first supercar, manufacturers were only just beginning to plunder their back catalogues with cars like the New Beetle and New Mini. 

Lamborghini never intended it to reach production, CEO Stefan Winkelmann (yes, the current F1 boss) saying “Lamborghini is about the future. Retro design is not what we are here for.” 

Of course, the world is now a very different place almost 20 years on and given the current appetite for back-to-basics hypercars and resto mods, a new Miura with a six-speed manual and the Revuelto’s 6.5-litre V12 could command a pretty penny. 

Nissan IDx Nismo 

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This one hurts. Nissan had the perfect opportunity to create a new hero car and a competitor to the Mazda MX-5 and Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ, only to get cold feet in the face of overwhelming enthusiast support. 

Of course, positive sentiment doesn’t necessarily equate to profits, but the IDx – especially in sporty Nismo guise – would’ve been a halo car at an affordable price point. 

Up to 170kW was mooted from the 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, driving the rear wheels and limited-slip diff would’ve been a must have. Alas, one of motoring’s great ‘what ifs?’. 

Toyota FT-Se 

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There’s still time. With Toyota committing to both performance cars and internal combustion for as long as possible, could the FT-Se make production as a new-generation MR2, following in the footsteps of the 86 and Supra? 

The concept, revealed at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, was electrically powered and could well be produced in that form, but we’d prefer either Toyota’s amazing 1.6-litre three-cylinder found in the GR Yaris and Corolla or its forthcoming new-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder to be nestled in the middle. Fingers crossed. 

Volkswagen W12 Nardo

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While most vehicles on this list never ventured further than a motor show stand, the Volkswagen W12 worked so well that in early 2002 it set all manner of speed and endurance records, covering 7740km at an average speed of more than 322km/h. 

A number of concepts appeared over the years, including a Roadster, but in its ultimate form the 6.0-litre W12 engine produced 441kW/621Nm and powered the rear-wheels, though the original concept was all-wheel drive. 

Though it never made production, the focus turning to the Bugatti Veyron instead, the W12 did live on in a number of Audi, Bentley and VW models. 

McLaren Automotive has unveiled Project Viva, a one-of-one 750S supercar designed by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) – the brand’s in-house division dedicated to bespoke creations and exclusive commissions. The project serves as a creative tribute to Las Vegas ahead of the city’s Formula 1 Grand Prix, showcasing the intersection of art, innovation and performance that defines both McLaren and its host city.

Project Viva reinterprets Las Vegas through a monochrome design, a bold contrast to the city’s trademark neon vibrancy. The intricate “Sketch in Motion” livery, hand-painted by MSO’s craftsmen, captures the rhythm and geometry of Las Vegas landmarks, music culture, and racing heritage.

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The car’s bespoke finishes include Muriwai White, a reference to McLaren’s New Zealand roots, and a new exclusive paint called Vegas Nights. The latter is a deep black hue infused with flecks of cyan, magenta, and green, intended to mimic the glow of neon light against the desert skyline. Each hand-painted stroke contributes to what MSO describes as a “visual narrative” linking the car’s design language to McLaren’s racing DNA.

Adding a personal touch, McLaren Formula 1 drivers Lando Norris and Australia’s Oscar Piastri each contributed hand-drawn design details to the car. These include sketches and signature lines, as well as a tenth Constructors’ Championship star on the rear bumper – marking McLaren Racing’s recent F1 victory.

Jonathan Simms, Director of McLaren Special Operations, said Project Viva embodies the MSO ethos: “It’s where craft meets character, and where any inspiration can become a story told through design. Every commission we create is a fusion of vision and skill.”

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The Project Viva 750S is powered by McLaren’s latest-generation twin-turbo V8 engine, blending the brand’s engineering performance with meticulous artistic detail. It will be displayed at the McLaren Experience Centre inside the Wynn Las Vegas Hotel, coinciding with the city’s Grand Prix celebrations.

For McLaren, Project Viva not only highlights its continued partnership with Formula 1 but also reinforces the company’s broader vision: merging high-performance automotive design with artistic expression, transforming road-going supercars into bespoke works of modern craftsmanship.

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