At the time of its launch, Mazda Australia claimed the CX-60 was a premium product, with premium pricing, directed at taking on the established premium and luxury brands. It would appear however, that Australian buyers want a more affordable CX-60, with sharper pricing a key focus of the new entry point to the extensive range. 

This new G25 model grade, then, is significantly more affordable than the previous entry-point to the CX-60 range, and is clearly the result of Mazda Australia listening to customers who wanted this car at a more fetching price. 

From launch, you’ll be able to buy the new CX-60 G25 for $47,990 drive-away (except for WA) for the entry Pure model, while the G25 Evolve starts from $49,240 before on-road costs and the G25 Touring starts from $52,240 before on-road costs. 

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This new model grade comes hot on the heels of the suspension revision back in May, and builds on what was an already impressive SUV, with strong standard equipment. Our tester is riding on 18-inch rims, and deals nicely with Melbourne’s urban and outer urban road network. SUVs in this class should be comfortable, more than they should be sporty, and the G25 nails that balance nicely, although it does – like most of the Euro entrants – err more on the side of firm. 

The other big difference of course is the engine – the G25 is powered by a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, with RWD and no hybrid or turbo complexity. This new driveline is added to a model range that already featured a 3.3-litre mild-hybrid turbocharged six-cylinder, a 3.3-litre mild hybrid turbocharged diesel six-cylinder, and a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder plug-in hybrid petrol engine. It’s safe to say then, that there’s plenty to choose from if you’re looking at buying a Mazda CX-60.

The 2.5-litre engine is familiar to Mazda owners, having been used in a variety of different Mazda vehicles over the years. It makes 138kW and 250Nm, driving through an eight-speed, multi-clutch automatic to the rear wheels. On that point, this base model will be RWD-only, while other CX-60s feature all-wheel drive as standard.

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The standard feature list of the base model is lengthy, even if some equipment has been removed to reflect the sharper price. Standard equipment for the Pure includes the aforementioned 18-inch gun metallic alloy wheels, LED headlights with auto high beam and dusk sensing, keyless entry and start, 10.25-inch infotainment screen, wireless and wired smartphone connectivity, proprietary satellite navigation, DAB radio, head-up display, eight-way manual front seat adjustment, 360-degree camera, and an extensive suite of adaptive safety equipment. As you step up through Evolve and Touring, you get more standard equipment – as you do with the rest of the CX-60 range. 

The takeaway from our launch drive is, as expected, the 2.5-litre engine doing everything the target buyer will expect. So much so that it’s not impolite to ask whether you need to fork out the extra money for any of the other more powerful engine options. This SUV will live the majority of its life in town, in traffic, dealing with the regular cut and thrust of city traffic. And it manages those tasks easily. There’s still some slight jerkiness through the transmission, but it’s smoother and quieter than other CX-60s we’ve tested.

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The cabin insulation is a point worth mentioning, too. Mazda seems to have tacitly admitted that there was too much road noise entering the cabins of its cars, and this CX-60 is significantly quieter and therefore more refined than just about any other Mazda we’ve tested recently. At cruising speed, you could almost whisper in conversation to other occupants, that’s how quiet it was. 

Aussies love buying the most expensive version of whatever car they are looking at, with as many options added as possible, but once again, the G25 CX-60 has shown that isn’t really necessary. In base form, you might want electric seat adjustment for example, but do you need it? Does the base Pure feel like you’re missing anything? No, not at all. And as such, it’s now a more affordable option for more buyers. 

The CX-60 is a solid SUV that competes well in the segment, and now offers the kind of price spread it arguably should have offered at launch. The jury is out as to whether Mazda can genuinely compete at the higher end of the premium section of the market – or indeed whether Australian consumers are willing to accept its position there. However, there’s no doubt the sharper pricing for the newly available G25 model gives prospective buyers a compelling reason to consider it in a segment that gets more hotly contested by the month.

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Specifications

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Though it remains one of Australia’s most popular vehicles, we’re overdue a new generation of the venerable Toyota HiLux.  

The reveal of Toyota’s new workhorse will be one of the biggest reveals of 2025 and a chance to reestablish dominance in an increasingly crowded dual-cab segment. 

As we get closer to the new HiLux’s first public appearance, details are firming as to its make up and you’ll find everything we currently know here, so check back regularly as more information comes to light 

When will the new Toyota HiLux be revealed? 

While not officially confirmed, it’s expected the 2026 Toyota HiLux will be revealed at the 2025 Bangkok Motor Expo in late November given that it is its country of origin.  

It will then hit Australian shores sometime in 2026, but as one of the biggest markets don’t expect too much time to elapse between its reveal and its arrival in local showrooms. 

What will power the 2026 Toyota HiLux? 

Those wanting an under-bonnet revolution for the new HiLux are likely to disappointed, in the short term at least, as documentation recently submitted for Australian Design Rules certification lists only the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. 

This tallies with speculation that the 150kW/500Nm mild-hybrid engine and its 165kW/550Nm high-output sibling from the GR Sport are likely to carryover, though attached to an eight-speed automatic rather than the current six-speeder. 

However, as the New Vehicle Efficiency Standards get increasingly stringent as the 2020s progress, Toyota will be forced to offer more efficient powertrains to avoid hefty fines. 

Recent reports from Japan suggest Toyota’s new-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol, which currently produces 224kW, will appear in the HiLux in due course and a true hybrid HiLux is almost a certainty. 

While Toyota Australia’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Sean Hanley, coyly told media recently that there were currently no plans to introduce Toyota’s Performance Hybrid technology, which will soon appear in the 300-Series LandCruiser, in the HiLux, its multi-pathway approach to powertrains means they can react quickly should the need arise. 

Rather than the 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 hybrid found in the LandCruiser and Tundra, our money would be the 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol hybrid found in the US Toyota Tacoma, which produces a healthy 243kW/630Nm, though it would need to be uprated to ensure the HiLux retains its 3500kg maximum towing capability. 

How new will the 2026 Toyota HiLux be? 

Contrary to early reports that the new Toyota HiLux would move to the TNGA-F platform that underpins the Tacoma, 300-Series, Prado and Tundra, it appears it will use a revised version of the current chassis called IMV. 

Toyota has form here, choosing the heavily update the original 86 to become the GR86 rather than start afresh. There are several reasons this makes sense. Firstly, Toyota has continually invested in the current HiLux platform, widening the tracks and fitting disc brakes for the Rogue and GR Sport and updating active safety assist systems.  

Secondly, the need for new electrified powertrains is likely to absorb plenty of development budget over its decade-plus life cycle. 

Nevertheless, the new HiLux will receive a hefty birthday inside where it’s most feeling its age and a look at the latest Prado and the new FJ Cruiser gives a clear indication of the direction Toyota is going with its interiors. 

Expect a large digital instrument display (at least on high-spec variants), a larger infotainment system with wireless smartphone mirroring and connected services while the inclusion of a front-centre airbag will help it attain a five-star ANCAP rating. 

Will there be an electric Toyota HiLux? 

An all-electric Toyota HiLux is already on the radar, with a rear-wheel drive, single-cab prototype driven by Australian media in 2023, while Toyota Australia also partnered with mining giant BHP on a 12-month trial of a battery-electric dual-cab prototype. 

In terms of a conventional dual-cab for consumers, however, the picture is murkier, with Hanley previously telling media an electric HiLux won’t suit the “silent majority” of buyers until it can tow 3.5 tonnes and a laden range of 700-800km, something that isn’t possible with current technology. 

As such, it remains to be seen whether Toyota’s first electric HiLux will be powered by batteries or a hydrogen fuel cell, the latter overcoming issues with range but striking new ones with a lack of infrastructure, something Hanley is confident will change dramatically by 2035. 

However, on that timeframe, an all-electric HiLux may not appear until the following generation. 

Porsche has expanded its all-electric Macan line-up with the launch of the Macan Electric GTS, with first Australian deliveries expected to commence in early 2026.

The most performance-oriented version yet of its mid-size SUV, the newcomer sits between the Macan 4S and the flagship Turbo, adding sharper handling, more power, and exclusive design details aimed squarely at driving enthusiasts.

The Macan Electric GTS will be priced from around A$170,000 before on-road costs, positioning it as a rival to the Polestar 3 Performance and the Lotus Eletre. As with all Porsche GTS models, the latest addition promises the “sweet spot” between daily refinement and track-ready precision.

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Power comes from dual electric motors – one at each axle – producing approximately 510 horsepower (380kW) in normal driving, and up to 585hp (436kW) with Launch Control activated. Torque peaks at a staggering 990Nm, allowing the GTS to sprint from 0–100km/h in just 3.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 250km/h.

Porsche engineers have reworked the Macan’s adaptive air suspension, dropping the ride height by 10mm for a lower centre of gravity and improved responsiveness. Unique damper tuning, revised anti-roll bars, and a rear-biased weight distribution (48:52) further enhance agility. Traction and cornering control are aided by an electronic locking differential mounted directly behind the rear motor, working in concert with Porsche Traction Management and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus.

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The GTS also introduces a new Track Mode, part of the standard Sport Chrono Package, which optimises battery cooling and limits thermal power loss during sustained hard driving.

When it’s time to recharge, the Macan GTS’s 100kWh battery and 800-volt architecture support 270kW ultra-fast charging, taking the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in just 21 minutes. Range is rated at up to around 700km (WLTP), depending on specification.

Visually, the GTS is distinguished by new front and rear bumpers, sportier side skirts, and 21-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 22-inch RS Spyder rims optional. Inside, Porsche’s Race-Tex microfibre trim, leather accents, and 18-way adjustable sports seats create a cabin that blends luxury and performance.

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Buyers can choose from 15 standard colours, including classic Carmine Red and new Lugano Blue, with almost 60 additional custom shades available through Porsche’s Paint to Sample program.

The new vehicle follows Porsche’s decision to revise its EV-only strategy earlier this year, announcing it would now develop more petrol-electric hybrid models in coming years.

Jaguar’s all-new electric grand tourer – the first in a new generation of luxury EVs – is edging closer to production, with prototypes now undergoing testing across multiple continents ahead of its global reveal later this year. Although still heavily camouflaged, the latest test vehicles reveal more of the sleek and athletic design that will define the brand’s next era.

New details include sharply styled headlights positioned high on the nose, expected to use the latest digital LED matrix technology, and a wider front grille incorporating active air intakes that adjust to cool the high-performance electric drivetrain.

Further back, production-ready bodywork shows flared wheelarches, flush door handles and a pronounced shoulder line reminiscent of classic Jaguars. The rear design will feature a sweeping roofline that flows into muscular haunches, with ultra-slim LED taillights and a full-width brake light completing the car’s distinctive lighting signature.

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Codenamed Type 00, the upcoming GT will be the first Jaguar to use the company’s new Electric Architecture platform, which will also underpin two further models – a large SUV and a luxury sedan – as part of Jaguar’s transition into an all-electric, high-end marque focused on “modern luxury.”

Power will come from a state-of-the-art electric system capable of delivering around 700 kilometres of range and ultra-fast charging that can add approximately 320 kilometres of driving in just 15 minutes. Jaguar’s Managing Director, Rawdon Glover, described the car’s technology as “game-changing,” noting that the aim is to eliminate concerns about range and charging convenience.

Interest is already high, with more than 32,000 prospective buyers registering interest before seeing the finished model. Expected to be priced from around A$250,000, the new GT will position Jaguar alongside top-tier performance brands such as Porsche and Aston Martin.

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Jaguar CEO Adrian Mardell said the new direction represents a once-in-a-generation reset for the marque. “This is Jaguar’s opportunity to do something extraordinary – to bring back the excitement and elegance we’re known for,” he said. “It will be lower volume, higher luxury, and unmistakably Jaguar.”

The electric GT will make its debut in late 2026, marking the beginning of Jaguar’s bold reinvention – an era defined by emotional design, cutting-edge technology and zero-emission performance.

The Renault Scenic E-Tech will launch in Australia before the end of 2025, Renault’s local distributor has confirmed. Not sold locally since 2010 in Grand Scenic seven-seater MPV form, the Scenic is now an electric mid-size SUV and will offer two battery sizes with up to 625km of driving range (WLTP). In E-Tech form, the Scenic was revealed in 2023 and is finally launching locally.

In Europe, two battery sizes are offered: a standard range model with a 60kWh battery and a long range model with a larger 87kW battery. Renault claims a WLTP range of 430km for the standard range model and 625km for the long range. The standard range can charge at up to 130kW and the long range slightly faster at 150kW. 

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The Renault Scenic E-Tech standard range uses a 125kW/280Nm electric motor, with the long range upgrading to a more powerful 160kW/300Nm motor with the standard hitting 100km/h in 8.6 seconds and the long range reducing that to 7.9 seconds. Renault is yet to announce the Australian line-up. 

The Scenic E-Tech measures 4470mm long, 1864mm wide, 1565mm tall and rides on a 2785mm long wheelbase, making it slightly shorter overall than a Volkswagen Tiguan. Its bootspace measures between 545 litres and 1670 litres, which is 20L larger than a Tiguan with its rear seats folded. 

“Earlier this year we announced Renault Australia would introduce six new or updated models over the next 18 months,” said Glen Sealey, the General Manager of Renault Australia.

“The Renault Scenic E-Tech is just the start of our revitalisation program and we are delighted to be able to introduce this award-winning car in Australia.”

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The Scenic E-Tech is the first of six new or updated models coming from Renault over the next 18 months and has joined the Megane E-Tech and Kangoo E-Tech in its electric vehicle range. 

The Renault Scenic E-Tech will go on sale in Australia before the end of 2025, with local pricing yet to be announced. 

Isuzu UTE Australia (IUA) has announced the return of the MU-X TOUR MATE, a towing-focused special edition designed to meet Australia’s growing demand for off-road-ready, family-friendly SUVs. The 2025.5 model-year MU-X LS-T 4×4 TOUR MATE re-enters showrooms alongside the D-MAX TOUR MATE, combining premium appointments with genuine Isuzu towing accessories worth nearly $9000, included as standard.

Available from $79,990 drive-away, the special edition represents a saving of more than $7600 over the cost of a standard MU-X LS-T 4×4 fitted with equivalent accessories.

Built on Isuzu’s flagship LS-T grade, the MU-X TOUR MATE is powered by the brand’s proven 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 140kW and 450Nm, paired with a robust six-speed automatic transmission and a selectable dual-range 4×4 system.

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The TOUR MATE edition comes equipped with a suite of towing and touring upgrades aimed squarely at long-distance travellers. Standard features include a satin black steel bull bar with integrated parking sensors and fog lights, a tow bar kit with 50mm ball, 12-pin wiring harness, and an electric brake controller for heavy-duty towing.

To enhance practicality, Isuzu has added Front and Rear Slimline Weathershields, a Rear Cargo Liner, Rubber Floor Mats, and a wireless phone charger, ensuring the SUV is as functional as it is capable.

Inside, the MU-X TOUR MATE retains the LS-T’s leather-accented seats, 20-inch alloy wheels, and comprehensive comfort and safety features, including Idle Stop-Start, heated front seats, and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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Isuzu UTE Australia Managing Director Junta Matsui said the reintroduction follows strong customer demand: “The MU-X TOUR MATE was tremendously well received last year. We’re excited to offer an updated version that represents outstanding value for Australians who live for the open road.”

Available in seven colours, the 25.5MY MU-X TOUR MATE is backed by Isuzu’s Service Plus program, including a six-year/150,000km warranty, five years of capped-price servicing at $469 per visit, and up to seven years of roadside assistance – making it one of the most comprehensive ownership packages in its class.

Highlights

• Satin black steel bull bar with integrated parking sensors and LED fog lights, tow bar kit with 50mm ball, 12-pin wiring harness, electric brake controller, Front and Rear Slimline Weathershields, Rear Cargo Liner, Rubber Floor Mats, Wireless Charger and unique TOUR MATE badging
• Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS), which includes AEB with Turn Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane Keeping Assist, Emergency Lane Keeping, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Surround View Monitor, Trailer Sway Control and eight airbags
• 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine
• Six-speed automatic transmission with 4×4 Terrain Command: with 2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low dual-range transfer case
• Idle Stop-Start (ISS)
• Rear-Diff Lock and Rough Terrain Mode
• 800mm wading depth and 235mm ground clearance
• Automatic-Electric Park Brake with Auto Hold function
• 20-inch machined two-tone alloy wheels with 265/50R20 Bridgestone 684II HT tyres
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Body coloured door handles
• Magnetite and chrome front grille
• Magnetite sidesteps
• Magnetite roof rails
• Magnetite lower rear bar trim
• Rear privacy glass with chrome window trim
• Premium leather steering wheel and gear selector
• Leather-accented seven-seat upholstery with stitched leatherette across interior door trims and centre console
• 8-way electric and variably heated front adjustable driver’s seat, with electric adjustable lumbar support
• 4-way electric and variably heated front adjustable passenger seat
• LED ambient interior lighting
• Push Button Start with Smart Entry and Start
• Remote engine start – with unauthorised entry and antitheft measures
• Power tailgate, with remote and handsfree operation
• 9.0-inch infotainment with DAB+, Satellite-Navigation, Smart Phone Mirroring, Voice Recognition, wireless Android Auto 9.0-inch infotainment with DAB+, Satellite-Navigation, Smart Phone Mirroring, Voice Recognition, wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay® and 8-speaker audio
• Dual-zone air-conditioning with second- and third-row air vents and controls
• ISOFIX compatible anchor points across outboard second row seats with three top-tether points
• Automatic Bi-LED headlights with automatic high beam control and LED daytime running lights (DRL)
• Automatic windshield wipers
• LED combination taillights
• Digital Reversing camera with dynamic guidelines
• Ute-based SUV class leading boot space of 311 litres with all seats up, 1,119 litres with the third row folded flat, and 2,138 litres with the second and third rows folded flat
• Available in Mineral White, as well as premium finishes: Moonstone White pearl, Mercury Silver metallic, Obsidian Grey mica, Basalt Black mica, Magnetic Red mica, and Cobalt Blue mica.

BYD’s premium performance division, Yangwang, has made global automotive history with its U9 Xtreme electric supercar officially recognised on the Nürburgring Nordschleife production car leaderboard. The record-breaking lap time of 6 minutes and 59.157 seconds establishes it as the fastest production electric vehicle ever to conquer the world’s most demanding racetrack — and the first EV to complete the circuit in under seven minutes.

In addition to its Nürburgring success, Yangwang confirmed that the U9 Xtreme recently achieved a top speed of 496.22 km/h, a feat that backs its claim as the world’s fastest production electric car but also rivals the outright speed benchmarks of traditional internal-combustion supercars.

The U9’s “dual first” distinction — for both speed and lap record — signals the continuing rise of China’s electric performance engineering on the global stage.

Yangwang executive Hu Xiaoqing said the official certification followed a private session at the German circuit on October 10, 2025, where conditions were far from ideal. Despite light rain and restricted track time, the team managed a final flying lap that clinched the record. Hu added that the drivers had not tested the U9 Xtreme for more than three weeks prior to the attempt, suggesting that with additional sessions, the car might have gone even faster.

The U9 Xtreme’s performance was validated by TÜV Rheinland in cooperation with Nürburgring officials, confirming the car’s compliance with production standards. Yangwang emphasised that the U9’s technology diverges significantly from conventional supercars, using an advanced quad-motor system, a lightweight aerodynamic body, and software-tuned torque vectoring designed to optimise stability and precision at high speed.

German professional racer Moritz Kranz, who has logged nearly 10,000 Nürburgring laps in his GT career, piloted the record-setting run. His experience proved critical in managing the immense acceleration and cornering forces generated by the 1000kW-plus EV.

Yangwang says the U9 Xtreme’s development and testing program will continue, with further refinement expected as part of its mission to redefine high-performance electric mobility. The achievement not only marks a milestone for BYD’s engineering prowess but also establishes China’s first production supercar to be officially listed among the Nürburgring’s elite performers.

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the G 63 Offroad PRO – a purpose-built variant engineered for drivers who demand both uncompromising off-road performance and high-end luxury. Priced at $383,900 (MRLP) and now available to order, this new flagship enhances the already formidable G 63 platform with advanced suspension technology, specialised drive modes and professionally equipped off-road hardware.

At the core of the Offroad PRO is AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL, featuring active hydraulic roll stabilisation tuned specifically for rough terrain. Larger piston diameters and expanded pressure reservoirs deliver greater axle articulation and superior wheel control, allowing the vehicle to remain composed over rocks, sand dunes or rutted tracks.

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Mercedes-AMG has also introduced two exclusive terrain-response systems to give drivers precision control over traction and body stability. The first, AMG Traction PRO, provides seven levels of adjustable braking torque management at each wheel, helping maintain grip across mud, gravel and uneven ground.

The second, AMG Active Balance Control, lets drivers adjust roll stiffness in three selectable stages – LOW, MID and HIGH – matching suspension dynamics to low-speed boulder crawling or high-speed desert running.

The Offroad PRO rides on 20-inch matte black AMG 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres developed specifically for this model. Additional protection includes heavy-duty rear mud flaps and full rubber matting throughout the cabin and cargo area.

A PROFESSIONAL roof rack with continuous aluminium plate decking is designed for secure load carrying and can be accessed via a mounted rear ladder, emphasising the G 63 Offroad PRO’s outback-ready credentials.

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Inside, however, the luxury appointments expected of a Mercedes-AMG are all present . The cabin features an AMG Performance steering wheel in premium Nappa leather, integrated with multifunction controls. The latest-generation MBUX system includes augmented reality navigation, while entertainment is delivered via a Burmester 3D surround sound system.

Additional convenience touches such as wireless smartphone charging and temperature-controlled cupholders underline the dual character of the vehicle: equally at home in the outback as it is in the city.

Combining iconic AMG performance with advanced off-road capability, the Mercedes-AMG G 63 Offroad PRO brings serious off-road grunt to the G-class.

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Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division has announced a series of detailed updates for the GR Corolla, promising sharper handling, improved cooling and a more immersive driving experience when the upgraded model lands in Australian showrooms in early 2026.

Drawing on insights from Toyota’s extensive motorsport involvement, including Japan’s demanding Super Taikyu Series endurance races, engineers have fine-tuned the GR Corolla to deliver even greater performance and control for drivers who like to explore the car’s limits.

The key structural upgrade involves a 74 per cent increase in the use of structural adhesive, now totalling more than 32 metres throughout the chassis. The reinforcement is focused around the underbody and rear wheel arches to better withstand the intense vertical and lateral forces experienced during high-speed cornering and track driving.

Toyota says the enhanced rigidity improves stability and steering response while deepening the connection between driver and machine – whether on a racetrack or a daily commute.

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Engineers have also addressed thermal performance with the addition of a new high-speed intake duct. Opening under heavy throttle, it channels cooler outside air from the front grille directly into the turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine. This helps maintain stable operation during extended high-load driving, ideal for spirited or track use.

Inside the cabin, the 2026 GR Corolla gains a nine-speaker JBL® premium audio system – up from eight speakers – thanks to the inclusion of a subwoofer in the cargo area for deeper, cleaner sound reproduction.

Toyota has also refined the Active Noise Control system to reduce unwanted engine and road noise, while introducing Active Sound Control for the first time. This feature enhances the engine note according to throttle input and drive mode, offering three selectable sound profiles with adjustable volume levels.

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The GR Corolla continues to pack a punch with its 221 kW / 400 Nm turbocharged engine, paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. Power is channelled to all four wheels through Toyota’s GR-Four system with limited-slip differentials, ensuring maximum traction and agility.

Pricing and detailed specifications for the upgraded GR Corolla will be announced closer to its Australian launch in early 2026.

A 1964 Peel P50 microcar – best known globally for its unforgettable appearance on an episode of Top Gear – has sold at auction for $85,000 by Donington Auctions, after it was found undisturbed in a Gold Coast garage.

The tiny three-wheeler, hailed by the Guinness World Records as the smallest production car in history, has fascinated enthusiasts for decades and this latest result reflects both its rarity and cultural significance.

Originally produced on the Isle of Man in the early 1960s, the Peel P50 was designed for one adult occupant and a shopping bag, powered by a modest 49cc single-cylinder engine. It had no reverse gear – owners were instead expected to lift and manoeuvre the car using a handle attached to the rear. Its compact design, weighing just 59 kilograms, made it as much a conversation piece as a mode of transport.

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This particular example, chassis D533, is an extraordinary barn find with single-family ownership for 49 years. It was purchased by a microcar enthusiast in the UK in 1976 for just £750 (A$1545), before being shipped to Queensland in 1988, where it remained hidden away in storage for nearly four decades.

Despite being repainted brown from its original Dragon Red, the Peel retains its originality and comes complete with its original buff logbook, confirming its early registration in Manchester in 1964.

Fewer than 50 Peel P50s were ever produced, and only around 27 are believed to survive, making this one of the world’s rarest microcars. Its fame skyrocketed after Jeremy Clarkson famously drove one through the BBC offices on Top Gear, squeezing into lifts and navigating tight corridors – an appearance that cemented its place in popular culture.

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The model offered at auction is currently non-operational but appears complete, offering an exciting restoration opportunity for the successful buyer.

Included in the sale was a trove of historical documents, including customs papers, MOT records and correspondence with the Peel Register and National Motor Museum.

With values for authentic Peel P50s climbing steadily – one example sold in the US in 2016 for more than US$170,000 – this $85,000 result underscores the enduring appeal of one of motoring’s smallest giants. For collectors seeking the ultimate conversation starter, the Peel P50 remains in a class of its own.