WhichCar By Wheels

Australians planning an Easter road trip are being urged to take extra care, with a little-known rule meaning some drivers could face double demerit points even outside the states where the scheme applies.

Double demerits will be enforced from Thursday, April 2 through to Easter Monday in New South Wales, the ACT and Western Australia – traditionally one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

However, the penalties aren’t always limited to where the offence occurs. In some cases, they are tied to where a driver’s licence is issued, as detailed in a Yahoo News Australia report.

For motorists holding an ACT licence, double demerits can apply regardless of where the offence takes place. That means drivers travelling interstate could still receive increased penalties if the ACT is in a double demerit period.

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The same principle applies in New South Wales. Drivers licensed in NSW may have double demerit points applied to their licence for offences committed anywhere in Australia during the holiday window. While the fine itself is issued in the state where the offence occurs, the demerit points are applied based on NSW rules.

With millions of drivers holding NSW licences, this could catch out travellers unaware that stricter penalties follow them across borders.

By contrast, most other states do not apply double demerits in the same way. In Queensland, for example, double demerits are only issued to repeat offenders committing certain offences within a 12-month period, not during holiday periods. Interstate offences are recorded, but only standard Queensland penalties apply.

Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and the Northern Territory also do not operate double demerit systems, meaning drivers from those states won’t face increased points for holiday offences, even if they occur elsewhere.

Western Australia enforces double demerits during the Easter period, but these do not carry over to drivers licensed in other states.

Authorities are reminding drivers that fines issued interstate are still enforceable, and failing to pay them can lead to further penalties.

With heavy traffic expected across the long weekend, the key message remains simple: know the rules that apply to your licence – not just the road you’re driving on.

One of its most important products globally, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a big facelift for its GLE and GLE Coupe large SUVs in line with their larger GLS sibling. The updated GLE has brought new styling, a refreshed interior, more tech and a revised global drivetrain range for the brand’s large luxury SUV. Mercedes-Benz Australia is yet to confirm local release timing, but we’re anticipating a release before the end of 2026.

A facelift rather than an all-new model, the overall shape of the GLE and GLE Coupe have not changed much but the details are updated with a lot more three-pointed stars. The larger new grille featuring hundreds of stars inside is immediately noticeable, as are the new headlights with the star daytime running lights, the newly-joined tailights with star lighting and – in some markets – the large three-pointed star badge in the grille is illuminated.

There are also new bumper designs for a sportier look, new exterior colour options and three new 20-inch alloy wheel designs to “further enhance the vehicle’s presence”.

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Inside has also seen design changes, including revised infotainment with a trio of 12.3-inch touchscreens under a single piece of glass that run the brand’s ‘MB.OS’ software with inbuilt Google Maps and new AI tech from Google, Microsoft and ChatGPT for more natural interaction with the car. A new 3D driver display is also available, as well as a head-up display with augmented reality and phone key functionality too.

The brand has implemented new physical controller wheels for the steering wheel replacing the former touch pads, the outer air vent design is now circular with inbuilt ambient lighting and revised colour and trim options like a new ‘Beech Brown’ colour have also been introduced. For sound lovers, the Burmeister sound system has been upgraded from 590 watts to 710 watts thanks to two new speakers in the roof.

Mercedes-Benz has also enhanced the GLE and GLE Coupe mechanically, with the brands ‘E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL’ analysing the driving situation more than 1000 times per second to adapt the suspension accordingly for greater comfort. This active suspension system can individually control the spring and damper forces on each wheel, counteracting not only roll but also pitch and lift movements to create a body that no longer dips when braking and accelerating.

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A new water-cooled supercomputer processor has been fitted to the GLE and GLE Coupe to enable an even better range of active safety features. 10 exterior cameras, up to five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors constantly assess the driving situation, and it means that the brand’s ‘MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO’ Level 2++ assist system – in which the car will drive itself on a point-to-point journey with the driver touching the steering wheel – is now fitted and active in some markets.

The range of engine options for the GLE and GLE Coupe have also been revised globally, with the new flat-pane crankshaft 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 from the updated S-Class now featuring in the GLE 580 making 395kW of power (up from 380kW) and 750Nm of torque (+20Nm).

The petrol GLE 450 now makes 560Nm of torque (+60Nm), and the plug-in hybrid GLE 450e now uses a six-cylinder engine instead of a four-pot for 55kW more power, while also capable of a WLTP electric driving range of 106km. The diesel four-cylinder GLE 350d and GLE 450d continue as well for global markets, but the local lineup is yet to be announced.

Australian arrival timing and specifications for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe range is yet to be announced, though we’re predicting an arrival before the end of 2026.

Ford Australia has announced new cost of living offers across its ute and SUV line-up, headlined by a $4000 fuel card offer on select run-out Ranger and Everest Trend models, and new driveaway pricing offers on the Ranger plug-in hybrid. According to the brand, it is prioritising both long-term efficiency and immediate financial relief with the new special offers, available from April 1.

Starting with the Ranger plug-in hybrid, which is capable of a combined fuel consumption figure of just 2.9L/100km when fully charged, Ford is offering the entry-level XLT for just $62,000 driveaway, the Sport for $66,000 driveaway, the Wildtrak for $70,000 driveaway and the top-spec Stormtrak for $73,000 driveaway. Based on retail pricing, those driveaway specials are a saving of up to around $17,000.

For buyers of the Everest Trend and select diesel Ranger XLT, Sport and Wildtrak variants (MY26 and older) will also receive a $4000 fuel card.

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In addition to the new driveaway and fuel-card offers, there is also an additional $1000 discount on Ranger, Ranger Super Duty and Ranger plug-in hybrid models for farming businesses that are registered as Primary Producers.

“These initiatives are designed to help our customers, from small business owners to families, get through this challenging financial period,” said Fadi Mawal, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand. “Ford vehicles offer incredible capability, performance and long-term value for money and we don’t want anyone to miss out on getting the best car for their needs because of short-term pain at the pump.”

For those looking to switch to an EV, Ford has also launched special driveaway pricing for its Mustang Mach-E electric SUV and e-Transit electric van. The Mach-E is priced at $60,000 driveaway for the entry-level Select, $75,000 driveaway for the mid-spec Premium and $89,000 driveaway for the top-spec GT, while the e-Transit starts from $59,990 driveaway.

Ford’s cost of living special offers are available from today April 1 until June 30 for the primary producer and PHEV offers, and until relevant stocks last for the $4000 fuel card offer.

With fuel prices still rising and global oil supply under threat, many drivers are looking for practical ways to reduce their reliance on petrol and keep running costs affordable. While it’s possible to change things like how often you drive, choosing a more fuel efficient vehicle can ultimately make more of a difference. 

Not all of us can afford an expensive electric or hybrid SUV but there are many fuel-sipping vehicles priced comfortably underneath $30,000. Here’s the WhichCar by Wheels guide to the 10 cheapest new cars currently available (based on driveaway pricing in New South Wales):

1) Kia Picanto Sport: $22,140 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.25-litre four-cylinder petrol, 66kW/122Nm, five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
Combined fuel efficiency: 5.4-6.0L/100km
Warranty: Seven-year/unlimited km, up to eight years of roadside assistance

Although it’s more expensive than it once was, the Kia Picanto is currently the cheapest new car you can buy in Australia. Priced from just $22,140 driveaway for the five-speed manual – $23,240 driveaway for the four-speed automatic – the Picanto is excellent value for money. It’s not a stripped out package, either, with plenty of standard feature and a 1.2-litre engine that may not be considered ‘powerhouse’ but is relatively fuel efficient and grunty enough for city driving. 

2) MG 3 Vibe: $21,990 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol, 81kW/142Nm, CVT automatic
Combined fuel efficiency: 6.0L/100km
Warranty: Seven-year/unlimited km (extendable to 10 years/250,000km with dealer servicing)

The MG 3 has been one of Australia’s biggest-selling small cars since it landed and the latest version is larger and much better equipped, even in entry-level Vibe spec. A 1.5-litre petrol engine with a CVT automatic transmission is standard, though if you’re looking to save more money at the pump, a hybrid version is available for closer to $30,000 driveaway in upper-spec Excite form. 

3) MG ZS Vibe: $22,990 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol, 81kW/140Nm, CVT automatic
Combined fuel efficiency: 6.7L/100km
Warranty: Seven-year/unlimited km (extendable to 10 years/250,000km with dealer servicing)

The MG ZS is a popular and attractive small SUV, and the new Vibe model is now cheaper than before, priced at just $22,990 driveway. That makes it Australia’s cheapest SUV, which is important for those wanting a cheap and practical new car. Power comes from the same 1.5-litre petrol engine as the MG3, meaning that the ZS is certainly no performance car, but it’s got enough go for efficient urban driving. 

4) Chery Tiggo 4 Urban/Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5L: $23,990 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 108kW/210Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, CVT (Chery); 82kW/200Nm 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder, six-speed auto (Mahindra)
Combined fuel economy: 7.4L/100km (Chery); 6.5L/100km (Mahindra)
Warranty: Seven-year/unlimited km (Chery); seven-year/150,000km (Mahindra)

Both the Chery Tiggo 4 Urban and Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5L are priced at just $23,990 driveaway and used to be the cheapest SUVs in Australia. Although that’s $1000 more expensive than the MG ZS Vibe, both the Tiggo 4 Urban and AX5L are better equipped and gruntier than the MG thanks to their turbocharged petrol engines. Both are covered by long warranties too, and present comfortable driving experiences from behind the wheel. 

5) Suzuki Swift Hybrid: $25,490 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.2-litre mild-hybrid three-cylinder, 61kW/112Nm, five-speed manual
Combined fuel economy: 3.8L/100km
Warranty: Five-year/unlimited km

The Suzuki Swift is an iconic little car and in its latest generation, it’s a good to drive as well as fuel efficient. Pricing starts from $25,490 driveaway and its 61kW 1.2-litre engine is hardly a firecracker, but it’s fine around town and with fuel economy rated from 3.8L/100km for the manual (CVT auto: 4.0L/100km), it’ll likely save you a lot in petrol. The Swift range is well equipped, with even the base model featuring a 9.0-inch touchscreen with inbuilt sat-nav, wireless Apple CarPlay and safety features like autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. 

6) GWM Haval Jolion Lux: $26,990 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder, 105kW/210Nm, seven-speed dual-clutch
Combined fuel economy: 8.1L/100km
Warranty: Seven-year/unlimited km

The Jolion is a highly popular small SUV with 3593 sales under its belt in Australia to the end of February, and it’s easy to see why. It’s excellent value for money priced from just $26,990 driveaway, though there are deals to be had – for example, the base Lux is currently available for just $23,990 driveaway. Standard features are healthy across the range, and a 105kW 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is standard across the range – plus, a hybrid is also available. 

7) BYD Atto 1 Essential: $27,096 driveaway

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Drivetrain: Single-motor electric, 65kW/175Nm, single-speed
Range: 220km
Warranty: Six-year/150,000km (car), eight-year/160,000km (battery)

Perhaps surprisingly, it is possible to buy a fully electric vehicle for comfortably under $30,000 including on-road costs. BYD launched the Atto 1 electric light hatchback in late 2025 and it’s available in two specifications with the entry-level Essential using a small 30kWh battery for a reasonable 220km of range. The upper-spec Premium uses a larger 43.2kWh batter for 310km of range, though that’s priced at around $32,000 driveaway. 

8) GAC Emzoom Luxury: $27,572 driveaway 

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Drivetrain: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, 125kW/270Nm, seven-speed dual-clutch
Combined fuel economy: 6.1L/100km
Warranty: Seven-year/unlimited km

GAC is a new brand to Australian shores – the Emzoom is its petrol-powered small SUV and its most affordable product locally. It features a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine making a gutsy – for this list, anyway – 125kW of power and 270Nm of torque, which is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Emzoom is funkily styled and well equipped, and is one of Australia’s cheapest small SUVs. 

9) Hyundai Venue: $27,636 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.6-litre four-cylinder, 90kW/151Nm, six-speed manual or automatic
Combined fuel economy: 7.0-7.2L/100km
Warranty: Five-year/unlimited km (extendable to seven years with dealer servicing)

The Hyundai Venue is the cheapest product that Hyundai sells locally, but it’s also a good small SUV option thanks to its spacious feeling inside, solid driving experience and – rarely – the fact it still offers the option of a six-speed manual. A 1.6-litre petrol engine is standard across the range, which is a little thirstier than competitors, but it makes a reasonable 90kW of power. 

10) Mazda2 G15 Evolve: $28,990 driveaway

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Drivetrain: 1.5-litre four-cylinder, 81kW/142Nm, six-speed automatic
Combined fuel economy: 5.0L/100km
Warranty: Five-year/unlimited km

The final entrant in the top 10 cheapest cars in Australia is the venerable Mazda2, which is currently priced from $28,990 driveaway. An 81kW/142Nm 1.5-litre petrol engine with a six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range, as is a long list of standard features like climate control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring and even adaptive cruise control. The 2 is also fun to drive and fuel efficient too, rated at just 5.0L/100km. 

Mobile phone use is being detected in one out of every eight car trips in Australia on Good Fridays, according to new data analysing more than 72 million kilometres of driving – raising concerns ahead of the busy Easter holiday period.

The findings point to distraction as a persistent issue on Australian roads, particularly during peak travel times when traffic volumes increase and conditions become more demanding.

The data, collected through the Safe ‘n Save program driving behaviour monitoring program run by insurer ROLLiN, tracks actions such as speeding, harsh braking and mobile phone use. Phone interaction is recorded when a driver unlocks their device or opens apps while the vehicle is in motion.

With many Australians expected to travel over Easter, authorities and road safety experts are warning that even brief lapses in attention can significantly increase risk.

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Periods of higher danger tend to follow predictable patterns, with Friday afternoons and early Saturday afternoons flagged as key times when congestion, fatigue and impatience combine. These conditions can amplify the dangers of distraction, particularly on unfamiliar regional roads.

At 50km/h, taking your eyes off the road for just one second means travelling close to 14 metres without awareness of what’s ahead. Over the course of a typical 10km trip, repeated phone use can result in hundreds of metres driven without full attention.

The data also highlights variation between states, with Victoria recording the highest rate of phone use at one in seven trips. New South Wales follows at one in eight, while Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia all sit at around one in nine. The ACT recorded the lowest rate among surveyed regions.

While enforcement measures such as mobile phone detection cameras have increased in recent years, the figures suggest behavioural change remains a challenge.

The analysis also indicates that safer driving habits can have measurable benefits, with many drivers achieving consistently high safety scores through smoother, more attentive driving.

As traffic builds over the long weekend, the message remains straightforward: staying focused behind the wheel is critical. With heavier traffic, longer journeys and unfamiliar routes, even a momentary distraction can have serious consequences.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed an updated version of its flagship GLS SUV, introducing revisions to its engine range, digital systems and interior while retaining its focus on space and comfort.

The seven-seat SUV, often positioned as the brand’s largest and most luxurious offering, receives a series of incremental updates rather than a full redesign. Key changes include revised petrol and diesel engines, updated suspension technology and an expanded suite of driver assistance systems.

At the top of the range, the GLS 580 4MATIC V8 sees a modest power increase to 395kW, with torque now sitting at 750Nm. Mercedes-Benz says the engine has been reworked to improve responsiveness and efficiency, with changes to the turbocharger, intake and emissions systems. A switch to a flat-plane crankshaft also forms part of updates aimed at meeting future emissions standards.

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Six-cylinder variants have also been revised. The GLS 450 petrol model gains improved torque delivery, now rated at 560Nm, while diesel versions introduce updates aimed at improving efficiency and reducing emissions, including an electrically heated catalyst system.

All engines are paired with a 48-volt electrical system and integrated starter generator, allowing for functions such as coasting, energy recuperation and brief power boosts under acceleration.

Underneath, the GLS continues with air suspension as standard, while higher-spec models offer an advanced active suspension system that can adjust each wheel individually. The system uses multiple sensors and control units to adapt to road conditions in real time, aiming to balance ride comfort with improved handling.

Inside, the most noticeable change is the introduction of a new digital interface. A wide glass panel houses three screens across the dashboard, running the latest version of Mercedes-Benz’s operating system. The system supports over-the-air updates and integrates a range of connected services, including navigation based on Google Maps.

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Rear-seat passengers also benefit from upgrades, with dual 11.6-inch screens available for entertainment and additional controls. The GLS retains its focus on practicality, offering three rows of seating with space for up to seven occupants and up to 2400 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded.

Design changes are relatively subtle, including a revised grille, updated lighting signatures and new wheel designs. Additional customisation options have also been introduced, with new exterior colours and interior trims available.

The updated GLS continues to target buyers seeking a large luxury SUV with a strong emphasis on space, technology and long-distance comfort.

Mercedes-AMG has updated its GLE 53 line-up, introducing revised powertrains, updated chassis systems and subtle design changes across both SUV and coupe variants.

At the centre of the update is a reworked 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol engine. Outputs remain strong at 330kW, with torque figures of up to 600Nm – or 640Nm temporarily available via overboost in the 48-volt version. AMG says the revised engine delivers a broader torque band and sharper response, helped by changes including a new cylinder head, intake system and turbocharger tuning.

The 48-volt mild-hybrid system also plays a larger role, with the integrated starter-generator providing an additional 17kW and 205Nm under acceleration. Combined with an upgraded electric compressor, throttle response is said to be more immediate. In this form, the GLE 53 can complete the 0–100km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds.

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Alongside it sits a more powerful plug-in hybrid variant, pairing the same six-cylinder engine with a 135kW electric motor. Total system output rises to 430kW and 750Nm, cutting the 0–100km/h time to 4.5 seconds. The hybrid can also drive on electric power alone at speeds up to 140km/h, with a claimed electric-only range of around 90 kilometres under WLTP testing.

Charging is supported by an 11kW onboard AC charger, with an optional DC fast-charging capability allowing a 10 to 80 per cent recharge in roughly 20 minutes.

Underneath, AMG has revised its air suspension and optional active roll stabilisation system. The setup aims to balance ride comfort with sharper handling, while updated software calibration is intended to improve body control and steering response. A revised stability control system and fully variable all-wheel drive system are also part of the update.

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Driver assistance systems have also been expanded, offering semi-automated functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and speed adjustment.

Visually, changes are relatively modest, with updates to the grille, lighting signatures and rear design. Inside, the cabin receives updated materials and trim options, along with the latest version of Mercedes-Benz’s digital operating system and AMG-specific displays.

The updated GLE 53 range continues to offer a wide degree of customisation, with various interior finishes, wheel designs and exterior colours available.

Toyota Australia has revealed local pricing and specifications for its first electric ute: the HiLux BEV. Revealed alongside the latest-generation ‘Lux in late 2025, the BEV variant is only the third all-electric ute to go on sale in Australia and will offer up to 315km of range (NEDC) from its 59.2kWh battery. Pricing starts at $74,990 plus on-road costs for the entry-level SR, which is $3000 more expensive than the top-spec diesel variants that used to sit atop the local HiLux range.

Using a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain, the Toyota HiLux BEV makes total outputs of 144kW of power and 468Nm of torque – only 6kW and 32Nm less than the automatic turbo-diesel HiLux already on sale, and 48Nm torquier than the six-speed manual variants.

Using an aforementioned 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery, the HiLux BEV can be DC fast-charged at up to 150kW for a 10 to 80 per cent charge in as little as 30 minutes, according to Toyota. Plus 10kW AC charging can take the battery from 10 to 100 per cent in approximately 6.5 hours. As for range, pick-up variants can travel up to 315km on a charge, with the SR cab-chassis is rated at 245km.

To accommodate the battery-electric drivetrain, the HiLux received its own suspension system with frame reinforcements, “beefed-up” MacPherson strut front suspension and a new De-dion leaf spring rear set up that can fit the rear electric motor but keep the HiLux’s live axle. The HiLux’s Multi-Terrain Select six-mode traction control system is retained, but the low-range transfer case and locking differentials of the diesel models are no longer featured.

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Ventilated disc brakes with energy regeneration are standard, and the HiLux BEV can tow a 2000kg braked trailer – 1500kg less than diesel variants. Payload details are yet to be shared.

Externally, the HiLux BEV is identified by a closed-off upper front grille and “aerodynamically enhanced” 17-inch alloy wheels. Just three colours will be offered: ‘Glacier White’, ‘Frosted White’ and ‘Ash Slate’.

Available in either SR or SR5 trims for now, standard features of the HiLux BEV largely mirror the diesel models, though there are differences: the BEV SR adds a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, body-coloured mirrors and door handles and dual-zone automatic climate control over the diesel SR, though loses four speakers, a wireless phone charger, a leather-look steering wheel and front fog lights.

The Toyota HiLux BEV will arrive in Australian showrooms in the second quarter of 2026.

2026 Toyota HiLux BEV pricing (excluding on-road costs):

SR double cab-chassis$74,990
SR double cab pick-up$76,490
SR5 double cab pick-up$82,990

HiLux BEV SR standard features:

HiLux BEV SR5 model adds:

The Toyota RAV4 is set to continue as Australia’s most fuel efficient plugless medium SUV after early fuel consumption data was published by the Australian Government’s Green Vehicle Guide. Toyota Australia is yet to confirm data such as the new RAV4’s fuel consumption and emissions, but according to the government information, it will use as little as 4.5L/100km on the combined cycle for the two-wheel drive models – a 0.2L/100km improvement on the previous generation.

When equipped with all-wheel drive – which, like the previous model, is an electric set-up with no mechanical link between the front and rear wheels – the RAV4’s combined consumption rises to a combined 4.6L/100km, which is also a 0.2L/100km improvement on the previous RAV4.

The new RAV4 sees the biggest improvement in urban cycle driving and is now rated at 4.2L/100km in front-drive form in those conditions, which is an improvement from 4.8L/100km on the previous model.

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Also revealed were the new RAV4’s CO2 emissions, which have – again – improved compared to the last model at 102g/km versus the old model’s 107g/km. For all-wheel drive cars, it’s rated at 105g/km versus the old model’s 109g/km.

The improved efficiency comes from the brand’s fifth-generation hybrid system with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor and small battery. Now rated for Euro 6 emissions standards, the new RAV4’s hybrid system makes 143kW, which is a 17kW decrease compared to the previous model, and it now must use 95 RON premium unleaded fuel.

Data for the RAV4 plug-in hybrid is yet to be announced, though it’s expected to be even more efficient on the combined cycle when it arrives in the third quarter of 2026 thanks to its electric-only range, of which Toyota Australia is targeting 100km for.

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The data for the new RAV4 means that it has continued its run as Australia’s most fuel efficient plugless medium SUV, with hybrid competition such as the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage and Peugeot 3008 using 4.9L/100km, the Haval H6 hybrid and MG HS Hybrid+ rated at 5.2L/100km, the Honda CR-V e:HEV rated at 5.5L/100km and the Nissan X-Trail e-Power at 6.1L/100km.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is due to go on sale from next month, with prices starting at $45,990 plus on-road costs for the entry-level GX hybrid.

Before the shortlist of potential names is announced Chery has revealed that it’s received 20,000 entrants to help name its new ute. First announced in early March, the competition invited the public to submit a name for the all-new ‘KP31’ (its model name) ute ahead of its Australian launch in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Generating “strong” engagement, Chery’s naming competition has reportedly far exceeded expectations as Australians embraced having a stake in the new vehicle even before its arrival.

“We knew Aussies would have a strong view on what makes a great ute, and the response to this competition has absolutely reflected that,” said Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer, Chery Australia.

“To receive this many entries is a tremendous result, but just as importantly, entrants took the brief seriously and explained why their name belonged on the ute, making the shortlisting process both exciting and difficult.”

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While full specifications and data are yet to be revealed, the new Chery ute will be the first diesel plug-in hybrid ute in the world. It will use a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel plug-in hybrid drivetrain capable of towing 3.5 tonnes and carrying a 1000kg payload. Importantly too, the brand is targeting 47 per cent thermal efficiency, 10 per cent greater fuel efficiency, a 10 per cent lighter weight and a 30 per cent reduction in noise compared with other utes.

A petrol plug-in hybrid system – like the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark and GWM Cannon Alpha – will also be offered in the new Chery ute sometime after its late 2026 Australian launch.

The Chery ute will go on sale in Australia in late 2026, with more details such as the drivetrain figures, pricing and name yet to be revealed.