2026 Kia Sportage review
Above: GT-Line HEV FWD
No less than 22,210 out of the Korean brand's 81,787 new registrations in Australia last year were Sportages, meaning the long-running fSUV nameplate accounts for more than one in four of the brand's sales Down Under.
Therefore, the updated 2026 Kia Sportage is critical for the brand to continue its upward momentum on the sales charts, and its increasing impact on Australian new car buyers.
Some may not immediately notice the design changes, but that's likely intentional. Given the success of the outgoing model, Kia has subtly refined the quite edgy look of the current-generation Sportage and added its latest tech.
Prices are up, and the range-opening manuals are gone. Instead, Kia has added two new hybrid variants to the mix – marking the first time an electrified Sportage with AWD has been offered in Australia. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
New displays incorporating Kia Connect Services and over-the-air updates are now standard across the range, with an enhanced set of safety and driver assistance technologies fitted too.
Is it still a top contender in an ever-competitive and popular vehicle class? Read on to find out.
Prices are up across the board, by at least $500 and an average of around $3000 depending on the model variant. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Like other new Kia products, the updated Sportage plonks in the brand's latest display tech, a new retro-inspired steering wheel design, and revised trims throughout. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Above: S
Ahead of the driver is either a 'basic' digital instrument cluster with 4.2-inch TFT supervision display, or a high-spec 12.3-inch digital binnacle if you spend up to the GT-Line.
It's a shame the nicer driver display is limited to the flagship variant when most of the company's EVs get it from the base grade, and it really cheapens the feel of the not-so-cheap SX+ grade.
Anyway, all models get the new 'ccNC' 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, now with Kia Connect Services and wireless smartphone mirroring across the board. It also brings new Valet Mode, weather forecast and calendar functions.
Kia's latest connected interface remains easy to use, well featured and snappy in operation. The base grade misses out on native navigation with online routing, but it's a very consistent experience across the range. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Above: S (top); GT-Line (bottom)
Haters of the old model's piano black console finish will be happy to know Kia has subbed out the fingerprint- and scuff-prone material with faux aluminium or wood surfaces.
Lower grades still have a lot of blank switchgear where the heated and ventilated seat controls go, and unless you get one of the SX-grade hybrids the dial-type shifter is reserved for the GT-Line. An old-school T-bar features otherwise.
Kia has blended conventional buttons and switchgear with touch-capacitive controls a bit better than other brands and rival models, with a configurable touch bar for infotainment and climate controls featuring user-friendly controls as well as a pair of physical knobs for volume and tuning or temperature and fan speed.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now compatible with models fitted with satellite navigation too, with the former working reliably with my iPhone 16 Pro Max. Sadly, you need to get the SX+ for a wireless charger. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Above: S (top); GT-Line (bottom)
As before, comfort and practicality up front is pretty good. Regardless of seat spec the front pews are comfortable and supporting with heaps of manual or electric adjustment depending on variant.
They are a little light on for side bolstering when you're tackling harder corners, and the seat base doesn't angle up as much as we'd like. Still, you should be able to spend long stints behind the wheel without issue.
We're fans of the modular centre console with lidded drawer and adjustable cupholders, and the cubby under the centre armrest offers good hideaway storage.
One complaint is the small-ish door bins, which won't hold big bottles like some rivals. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Given Australia opts for the long-body Sportage out of Korea, rear seat space is at the upper end of the segment, with heaps of head and leg room even with the panoramic sunroof of the GT-Line grade. The flat bench and floor means three across shouldn't be too much of a hassle, either.
Amenities include air vents – but no extra zone of climate – as well as map pockets, bottle holders in the doors and a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders. You get top-tether points across all three seatbacks, as well as ISOFIX anchors on the outboard positions, too.
Further back there's 542-586 litres of boot space depending on variant. Hybrids quote more outright volume but forfeit the full-size alloy spare of petrol and diesel models for a space saver spare.
Drop the second row and you get a pretty cavernous 1829-1872 litres of volume, which is very good for the class and up there with SUVs from the next size segment.
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
Four different engine variants are offered, with the turbocharged hybrid now offering both front- and all-wheel drive. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
The Sportage HEV has seen a slight power and torque bump to 173kW/367Nm (up from 169kW/350Nm) courtesy of a more powerful electric motor which sits between the transmission and turbocharged petrol engine. Braked towing capacity for hybrid models has also been upped to 1900kg, which matches the diesel.
Another significant change is the transmission for 1.6T AWD versions, which switches out the old and disliked seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for a smoother-shifting eight-speed auto. Fuel consumption, however, is up by almost 0.5L/100km on the combined cycle as a result.
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
While the powertrains are largely carryover, Kia Australia's local ride and handling team have implemented a bespoke steering tune and the turbo-petrol variant gets a new eight-speed automatic instead of a dual-clutcher. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Pictured: S 2.0 FWD
The one-day drive event didn't allow much of an extended experience behind the wheel of one particular variant, though we spent time in the S 2.0D AWD, SX HEV AWD, and the GT-Line 1.6T AWD throughout the program.
Kia Australia's chassis localisation program is a key point of difference compared to many rival brands, and chief ride and handling engineer Graeme Gambold led the development and application of an Australian-specific steering tune.
Mr Gambold says the revised power steering map, replacing the old Korean tune which was used due to restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to provide more accuracy and feedback while retaining a natural feel.
Like the new K4 and EV3 before it, the Sportage's rack doesn't go for outright engagement and feel, better balancing comfort and accuracy to make placing this 4660mm-long and 1865mm-wide family SUV a cinch to place. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Our drive program commenced in the Sydney suburbs before taking us out through the NSW capital's network of tunnels and highways out to the open road, and the base diesel remains a cracker of an all-rounder.
The oiler's effortless low-down shove gets it to urban and freeway speeds nicely, and the signature clatter of most four-cylinder diesels remains excellently refined and subdued even under acceleration.
While most brands have been progressively moving away from diesel power in the medium classes and below, the Sportage makes a great case for the engine type with its solid long-legged performance and impressive fuel economy.
We saw in the low- to mid-6.0L/100km realm with mixed conditions, skewing slightly to urban highways and inclined freeways north of Sydney. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Pictured: GT-Line 1.6T AWD
Next we jumped into the SX Hybrid AWD for a 20-minute loop, on a mix of winding B-roads and country highways.
The hybrid has had a proper localised chassis retune for the facelift, as the pre-facelift version was a Frankenstein of parts and calibrations based on the petrol and diesel range. It also picks up a local steering tune with this update.
Recalling my time with the pre-facelift Sportage SX HEV in 2024, the new model feels more dialled in and tied down than before, with a more cohesive ride matched with a tighter steering tune that comes together nicely.
Performance is pretty good if you hammer it, and the new AWD version doesn't slip and scrabble under hard acceleration like the FWD model might. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
You might not really feel the added 4kW and 17Nm unless you drive them back to back, but the hybrid drivetrain in the Sportage feels quite smooth and refined. It doesn't feel as thrashy under load like the last one, either.
However the six-speed automatic still feels like it's lacking a cog or two at motorway speeds, with the 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine spinning around the 2000rpm mark at 100km/h which sees fuel consumption sit anywhere between 6.0-7.0L/100km depending on the road's incline.
At lower speeds it'll happily accelerate to around 40km/h in EV mode, and admittedly the engine will shut off on occasion at 100km/h and above at a cruise to save fuel. At urban speeds you'll see indicated fuel consumption closer to 5.0-5.5L/100km which is more in line with the brand's claim.
Still, if you spend a lot of time touring the open road, I think one of the diesels might be a better bet as it'll use less fuel and the eight-speed auto seems more relaxed. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
The final variant we tested was the GT-Line 1.6T AWD with its new eight-speed automatic, a similar change to the smaller Seltos with the same base engine.
In the Sportage however, the 1.6 'T-GDI' four-cylinder turbo-petrol retains its lower 132kW/265Nm tune as per the Korean market, rather than the more powerful 146kW version that was applied to the Seltos globally. Odd.
From the get-go you'll notice the turbo-petrol Sportage is smoother off the line and less elastic when setting off and then shifting from first to second. The old seven-speed DCT had a habit of feeling a little slingshotty off the mark, and at times would send some unwanted vibrations through the cabin at low speeds.
There's a nicer immediacy to initial response too, thanks to the conventional torque converter setup not suffering from that DCT lag that plagues transmissions of that type. On the highway it feels a little less worked too thanks to that extra cog. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Don't be fooled into thinking the 1.6T is the sporty Sportage, though. The eight-speed auto seems to be more geared to refinement and smoothness rather than performance and engagement.
The four-cylinder petrol engine without electric hybrid assistance also gets loud and thrashy under hard acceleration, and its relatively modest outputs don't quite move the Sportage AWD's 1.7-tonne heft with a whole lot of gusto.
You can flick it into Sport mode and shift via the steering-mounted paddles which offer surprisingly good shift response, but the drivetrain just doesn't feel happy when driven like this.
The lack of idle stop-start also means this variant isn't all that efficient in town either. Following a longer stint back to Sydney with both spirited B-road, freeway and suburban sections, the Sportage's trip computer was showing a pretty thirsty 8.7L/100km.
We didn't drive the base 2.0 'MPI' FWD version, but given it's carryover from the pre-update range it's one to best avoid unless you want the absolute cheapest Sportage you can buy. It's lacking in grunt, isn't very efficient and can feel underdone if you're regularly doing higher speeds. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Pictured: S 2.0 FWD
Overseas there are a couple of other powertrains that aren't offered here, including the US market's 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with the 1.6T's eight-speed auto; a 1.6-litre turbocharged plug-in hybrid (PHEV) which is effectively the HEV with a larger battery; as well as a 1.6-litre turbo FWD that is the base engine in Korea.
Europe and the UK also offer a more efficient 48V mild-hybrid version of the 1.6 T-GDI petrol motor, though this comes out of the brand's Slovakian factory. The PHEV and and 1.6T FWD would be good additions to the range if the Korean brand could make a case for them Down Under, but any major changes to the lineup will likely have to wait for a next-generation model in a few years time.
Kia's local arm has said it's working to get an S-spec Sportage HEV, though stopped short of giving any sort of timeframe. As has been the case for a while, the diesels and hybrids make the most sense if you can justify the premium – not just for efficiency but general driveability and refinement.
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
The previous range walk carries over – i.e. S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line – though there's more equipment across the lineup. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
2025 Kia Sportage S equipment highlights: 17-inch alloy wheels – machined design (NEW)
Full-size alloy spare wheel
3-cell LED headlights – reflector type
LED daytime running lights
Power folding mirrors
Roof rails
Rear spoiler incl. high-mounted stop light
12.3-inch infotainment system (NEW)
Kia Connect Services (NEW)
Over the air updates (NEW)
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
'Basic' digital instrument cluster
Cloth seats
Premium steering wheel trim
PVC gearshift
60:40 split-folding rear seats
Rear centre armrest
Retractable cargo cover
Smart key with push-button start (NEW)
Remote engine start (NEW)
Single-zone air-conditioning
6-speaker audio
12V power outlet – cargo area
USB-C charger in front console
Rear air vents
Sportage SX adds: 18-inch alloy wheels – machined design (NEW)
12.3-inch navigation system – ccNC (NEW)
Wireless Apple CarPlay – (NEW)
Wireless Android Auto – (NEW)
18-inch alloy wheels
Rain-sensing wipers
2-way lumbar support – driver
Premium shift selector – Petrol, Diesel
Dial-type shift selector – HEV
Remote folding second-row seats
Dual-zone climate control
Temporary spare wheel – HEV 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Above: GT-Line 1.6T AWD
Sportage SX+ adds: Wireless phone charger (NEW)
Heated steering wheel (NEW)
19-inch alloy wheels – Petrol, Diesel
Power driver seat
Heated front seats
Harman Kardon premium audio
Power tailgate
Rear privacy glass
Artificial leather upholstery
Sportage GT-Line adds: 19-inch black alloy wheels – machined design (NEW for Petrol, Diesel)
18-inch alloy wheels – machined design (NEW for HEV)
4-cube LED headlights – projector type (NEW)
Dynamic welcome light – front, rear (NEW)
Head-up display (NEW)
Heated steering wheel (NEW for Petrol, Diesel)
Dial-type shift selector – all variants (NEW excl. HEV)
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Memory function – driver seat
Power front passenger seat
Ventilated front seats
Ambient mood lighting
Panoramic sunroof
LED interior lighting
Alloy sports pedals
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
The updated Kia Sportage is expected to retain its five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on 2022 Euro NCAP tests. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
While there have been some feature upgrades – such as a more advanced semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system from SX+ level and up – the fundamentals appear to be the largely same.
Some new or enhanced features have been confirmed from the base model up, however, including an emergency assist function for the adaptive cruise control if the driver becomes unresponsive, and front parking sensors.
Standard safety equipment includes: 7 airbags incl. front-centre
Smart Cruise Control 2 – SCC 2 (NEW)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind-spot assist
eCall with SOS button (NEW)
Intelligent speed limit assist
Lane Following Assist (centring)
Lane-keep assist
Multi Collision Brake
Rear cross-traffic assist
Parking sensors – front (NEW), rear
Reversing camera
Tyre pressure monitor
SX+ adds: Highway Driving Assist (NEW)
GT-Line adds: AEB – reverse
Blind Spot View Monitor
Surround View Monitor – 360 cameras
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
The updated Kia Sportage, like the Korean brand's other models, will be covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
Hybrid vehicles are also subject to a seven-year/150,000km high-voltage battery and component warranty.
Kia Australia offers seven years of capped-price servicing across its lineup, though finer details around intervals and pricing for the updated Sportage range are still to be confirmed.
For reference, 2.0L petrol and turbo-diesel models in the pre-facelifted range have 12-month/15,000km intervals; while the turbocharged 1.6L petrol and HEV versions have shorter 10,000km distance intervals.
Pricing over a seven-year period varied between $3344 and $4502 depending on engine variant, which is quite expensive compared to the competition.
To see how the Kia Sportage lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool
The new Sportage brings a range of subtle refinements to polish an already very good overall package. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
In lieu of wholesale or groundbreaking developments, Kia has carefully refined its top-seller to address key drawbacks of its predecessor, while democratising more assistance and infotainment tech across the range.
The addition of all-wheel drive hybrid models with an increase to towing capacity will no doubt strengthen the electrified version's case against an increasing number of hybridised rivals, and Kia Australia is already reporting a 60:40 skew towards all-paw models based on initial orders.
We also appreciate the application of a localised steering software map which better ties the Sportage's steering feel and response to the well-balanced chassis package, making this a lovely vehicle to ride in whether you're in town or on the open road.
It offers as much choice as it ever has, and key spec additions lower down in the range mean you don't have to spend up to the GT-Line to get a good suite of convenience features and in-car technologies. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
However, there are still a number of areas that Kia Australia can improve on to align the Sportage with global specifications and move the dial even further.
Reserving nicer displays and headline features for the GT-Line still grates. Surely these can be introduced as an optional package to get buyers into a greater mix of lower variants, much like the brand employed with the new K4.
Fuel-efficiency and emissions performance could be improved too. The petrol engines aren't doing much to help Kia meet looming Australian emissions regulations, and a quick change to Korean-spec Euro 6 powertrains and more electrification options like the PHEV would give consumers even more efficient choices to save at the pump.
Throw in cheaper servicing costs and you've got a much more well-rounded offering. Still, the Kia Sportage will no doubt remain a hit with Aussie buyers, with subtle changes that make a good thing even better. 2026 Kia Sportage Credit: CarExpert
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MORE: Explore the Kia Sportage showroom More hybrids, more tech
New steering tune feels good
Bye bye piano black trims Not-insignificant price rises
Inefficient petrol engines
Needs better feature spread
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17 hours ago
- The Advertiser
My first taste of Goodwood brought to you by Aston Martin
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a mainstay bucket list item for car enthusiasts of all ages, as is getting a ride-along in an exotic supercar with a seasoned racing driver behind the wheel. On a recent holiday to Europe and the UK, I was in the right place at the right time and was offered the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed as a media guest of Aston Martin, including a stint in the passenger seat of a DB12 Volante fanging up the famed hillclimb. Obviously, I accepted this invitation with no hesitation, and after a 2.5-hour drive from my friend's house in London (shoutout to Kia UK for loaning me a new EV6), I made it to the hallowed grounds of the Goodwood event. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. After being chaperoned by Aston Martin staff through a special entrance and to the marque's guest tent, I was soon whisked away again towards the Supercar Paddock, where a slew of very high-end vehicles are kept on display to the public. It was here I was greeted by a beautiful burgundy DB12 Volante that would be my ride for the morning run, sitting alongside the new Vanquish Volante, the Vantage S, as well as Aston Martin's Valkyrie Le Mans-inspired hybrid hypercar and the new Valhalla mid-engine plug-in hybrid supercar. As a '90s kid who grew up only dreaming of ever seeing this kind of metal in person, let alone sitting in them as well as hearing their sonorous exhaust notes in real life, I was simply in awe. Our group signed indemnity forms and then quickly slipped into full-length trousers and a jumper per motorsport safety rules – mind you, it was quite possibly the hottest day of the year in the UK on that fabled Friday, peaking at around 34 degrees Celsius. Above: Assembling the Astons at Supercar Paddock No matter. Despite numerous questions of concern from Aston Martin staff that I may overheat while waiting to head to the start line, I was grinning from ear to ear and brimming with excitement for what was to come. Driving me in the DB12 Volante would be Ben Seyfried, factory driver for not only Aston Martin but also Ferrari and Maserati; he has also participated in competitive motorsport for 25 years across numerous disciplines. Big thank you to Ben for being an absolute legend and making my day. The crew of Aston Martins made a procession up towards the start line alongside other members of the 'supercar' group, which included a number of new and recent McLarens like the Artura and P1 GTR, as well as the new Lamborghini Temerario, works by Gordon Murray, and even a Pagani Huayra R. Festival goers lined the makeshift road ahead. It felt like I was part of some parade. The excitement and passion was palpable, and I think some of them might have thought I was one of Aston's racing drivers – as a Leo, I was happy to make-believe for my five minutes of supposed fame. Above: Weird and wonderful metal lining up for the Goodwood Hillclimb Rolling up to the start line there were even more incredible cars lining up for their blat up the hill. Coach-built restomods, working concepts and design studies. Stuff that I had only ever seen in pictures or video games – they were all here. In my excitement I realise I took mostly videos, not photos, of all the incredibly exotic and expensive metal that I rolled past at the starting area. If you'd like to see more, I have a special highlight on my Instagram profile here which documents my day at the event. As we slowly snaked our way around the makeshift cul-de-sac and headed towards the start line – which took what felt like an eternity – Ben and I would have little chats with staff as they walked past and did their checks. I was also busy making sure I knew how to turn on the in-car camera suctioned to the windscreen because, content. I'd hear the cars ahead go for their runs one by one, usually signalled by clouds of smoke and the symphony of engines revving to their redlines. There comes a point where all the intoxicating sounds sort of mesh together and you can't even pick up which car is setting off. I was kind of in a daze. Finally, we were rolling up to the start line. I squeezed my head (and hair) into the supplied Aston-branded race helmet. "Strapped in?" Ben asked – I tugged twice at my seatbelt to make sure (having already done this 50 times while I waited) – "yep!" I replied, then he lit up the rear tyres for dramatic effect and off we went. The DB12 Volante can be described as a seriously quick car, quoting a 0-100km/h dash in just 3.7 seconds on its way to a claimed top speed of 325km/h, but amongst its exotic company at the bottom of the Goodwood hill some might label it as mundane by comparison. I certainly had no such thought, having driven one myself back home last year. And while the Volante might be seen as a Sunset Boulevard cruiser rather than a circuit bruiser like its hard-topped sibling, I'd argue that a moment like this is best enjoyed with no roof – which is exactly what we did. The bellow of the 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 behind me, the cheers of the crowd around us, and the sheer excitement of seeing the short hillclimb stage coming through the windscreen was an incredible delight for the senses. Ben was hard on the throttle, then the brakes, then the throttle, with tight turns thrown in there for good measure. I was too focused on what was in front of me to really check the speedo, which mind you was also in miles per hour, but I'm pretty sure I glanced over and saw a big number starting with '9' on the digital speedo at one point, which means we hit at least 145km/h somewhere. Before I know it, we've crossed the finish line. Ben hits the brakes, and we coast towards the end of the track where the cars that went before us have collected in what looks like a very expensive meet. It appears the most elite of Goodwood guests have access to seating areas around the end of the track where they can see each car come through one-by-one after they've completed their run. Given the balmy English conditions, some were understandably puzzled at my fully sleeved and trousered fit compared to their shorts and T-shirts. We were quickly ushered back into our cars for the leisurely parade back to the paddock. "Have a wave if you like," Ben says, as we roll past spectators and track marshalls giving us a nod and a wave. Maybe I will. I arrived back at Supercar Paddock and had to pinch myself. What an incredible experience for my first time at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Not only did I get a front row seat at one of the world's largest automotive events with some of the coolest cars and race cars in history on display – as part of the 75 years of Formula 1 celebrations, as well as a spotlight on Gordon Murray Automotive – but I got to experience first hand what it's like to do a timed run up the famed hillclimb. I then proceeded to have a quick walk around the grounds, capping it at around one hour before making a break for the carpark so I didn't pass out in the heat. Several people told me I'd need days to see it all, and they weren't joking, I'd probably need several more laps of the grounds to get the full picture. Britain's car culture is really something to be admired. People there are really passionate about everything on four wheels and will proudly use their prized possessions as modes of transport (you should have seen the carpark finds), rather than cooping it up in a glass box or trying to flip it for a profit six to twelve months after taking delivery. I look forward to attending the Festival of Speed in future years, and absolutely cannot recommend it enough if you happen to be in the UK when it's on – just make sure you get tickets quickly, they sell out fast! Lastly, a big thank you to the team at Aston Martin and EVH Agency for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that made a little boy's dream come Explore the Aston Martin DB12 showroom Content originally sourced from: The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a mainstay bucket list item for car enthusiasts of all ages, as is getting a ride-along in an exotic supercar with a seasoned racing driver behind the wheel. On a recent holiday to Europe and the UK, I was in the right place at the right time and was offered the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed as a media guest of Aston Martin, including a stint in the passenger seat of a DB12 Volante fanging up the famed hillclimb. Obviously, I accepted this invitation with no hesitation, and after a 2.5-hour drive from my friend's house in London (shoutout to Kia UK for loaning me a new EV6), I made it to the hallowed grounds of the Goodwood event. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. After being chaperoned by Aston Martin staff through a special entrance and to the marque's guest tent, I was soon whisked away again towards the Supercar Paddock, where a slew of very high-end vehicles are kept on display to the public. It was here I was greeted by a beautiful burgundy DB12 Volante that would be my ride for the morning run, sitting alongside the new Vanquish Volante, the Vantage S, as well as Aston Martin's Valkyrie Le Mans-inspired hybrid hypercar and the new Valhalla mid-engine plug-in hybrid supercar. As a '90s kid who grew up only dreaming of ever seeing this kind of metal in person, let alone sitting in them as well as hearing their sonorous exhaust notes in real life, I was simply in awe. Our group signed indemnity forms and then quickly slipped into full-length trousers and a jumper per motorsport safety rules – mind you, it was quite possibly the hottest day of the year in the UK on that fabled Friday, peaking at around 34 degrees Celsius. Above: Assembling the Astons at Supercar Paddock No matter. Despite numerous questions of concern from Aston Martin staff that I may overheat while waiting to head to the start line, I was grinning from ear to ear and brimming with excitement for what was to come. Driving me in the DB12 Volante would be Ben Seyfried, factory driver for not only Aston Martin but also Ferrari and Maserati; he has also participated in competitive motorsport for 25 years across numerous disciplines. Big thank you to Ben for being an absolute legend and making my day. The crew of Aston Martins made a procession up towards the start line alongside other members of the 'supercar' group, which included a number of new and recent McLarens like the Artura and P1 GTR, as well as the new Lamborghini Temerario, works by Gordon Murray, and even a Pagani Huayra R. Festival goers lined the makeshift road ahead. It felt like I was part of some parade. The excitement and passion was palpable, and I think some of them might have thought I was one of Aston's racing drivers – as a Leo, I was happy to make-believe for my five minutes of supposed fame. Above: Weird and wonderful metal lining up for the Goodwood Hillclimb Rolling up to the start line there were even more incredible cars lining up for their blat up the hill. Coach-built restomods, working concepts and design studies. Stuff that I had only ever seen in pictures or video games – they were all here. In my excitement I realise I took mostly videos, not photos, of all the incredibly exotic and expensive metal that I rolled past at the starting area. If you'd like to see more, I have a special highlight on my Instagram profile here which documents my day at the event. As we slowly snaked our way around the makeshift cul-de-sac and headed towards the start line – which took what felt like an eternity – Ben and I would have little chats with staff as they walked past and did their checks. I was also busy making sure I knew how to turn on the in-car camera suctioned to the windscreen because, content. I'd hear the cars ahead go for their runs one by one, usually signalled by clouds of smoke and the symphony of engines revving to their redlines. There comes a point where all the intoxicating sounds sort of mesh together and you can't even pick up which car is setting off. I was kind of in a daze. Finally, we were rolling up to the start line. I squeezed my head (and hair) into the supplied Aston-branded race helmet. "Strapped in?" Ben asked – I tugged twice at my seatbelt to make sure (having already done this 50 times while I waited) – "yep!" I replied, then he lit up the rear tyres for dramatic effect and off we went. The DB12 Volante can be described as a seriously quick car, quoting a 0-100km/h dash in just 3.7 seconds on its way to a claimed top speed of 325km/h, but amongst its exotic company at the bottom of the Goodwood hill some might label it as mundane by comparison. I certainly had no such thought, having driven one myself back home last year. And while the Volante might be seen as a Sunset Boulevard cruiser rather than a circuit bruiser like its hard-topped sibling, I'd argue that a moment like this is best enjoyed with no roof – which is exactly what we did. The bellow of the 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 behind me, the cheers of the crowd around us, and the sheer excitement of seeing the short hillclimb stage coming through the windscreen was an incredible delight for the senses. Ben was hard on the throttle, then the brakes, then the throttle, with tight turns thrown in there for good measure. I was too focused on what was in front of me to really check the speedo, which mind you was also in miles per hour, but I'm pretty sure I glanced over and saw a big number starting with '9' on the digital speedo at one point, which means we hit at least 145km/h somewhere. Before I know it, we've crossed the finish line. Ben hits the brakes, and we coast towards the end of the track where the cars that went before us have collected in what looks like a very expensive meet. It appears the most elite of Goodwood guests have access to seating areas around the end of the track where they can see each car come through one-by-one after they've completed their run. Given the balmy English conditions, some were understandably puzzled at my fully sleeved and trousered fit compared to their shorts and T-shirts. We were quickly ushered back into our cars for the leisurely parade back to the paddock. "Have a wave if you like," Ben says, as we roll past spectators and track marshalls giving us a nod and a wave. Maybe I will. I arrived back at Supercar Paddock and had to pinch myself. What an incredible experience for my first time at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Not only did I get a front row seat at one of the world's largest automotive events with some of the coolest cars and race cars in history on display – as part of the 75 years of Formula 1 celebrations, as well as a spotlight on Gordon Murray Automotive – but I got to experience first hand what it's like to do a timed run up the famed hillclimb. I then proceeded to have a quick walk around the grounds, capping it at around one hour before making a break for the carpark so I didn't pass out in the heat. Several people told me I'd need days to see it all, and they weren't joking, I'd probably need several more laps of the grounds to get the full picture. Britain's car culture is really something to be admired. People there are really passionate about everything on four wheels and will proudly use their prized possessions as modes of transport (you should have seen the carpark finds), rather than cooping it up in a glass box or trying to flip it for a profit six to twelve months after taking delivery. I look forward to attending the Festival of Speed in future years, and absolutely cannot recommend it enough if you happen to be in the UK when it's on – just make sure you get tickets quickly, they sell out fast! Lastly, a big thank you to the team at Aston Martin and EVH Agency for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that made a little boy's dream come Explore the Aston Martin DB12 showroom Content originally sourced from: The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a mainstay bucket list item for car enthusiasts of all ages, as is getting a ride-along in an exotic supercar with a seasoned racing driver behind the wheel. On a recent holiday to Europe and the UK, I was in the right place at the right time and was offered the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed as a media guest of Aston Martin, including a stint in the passenger seat of a DB12 Volante fanging up the famed hillclimb. Obviously, I accepted this invitation with no hesitation, and after a 2.5-hour drive from my friend's house in London (shoutout to Kia UK for loaning me a new EV6), I made it to the hallowed grounds of the Goodwood event. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. After being chaperoned by Aston Martin staff through a special entrance and to the marque's guest tent, I was soon whisked away again towards the Supercar Paddock, where a slew of very high-end vehicles are kept on display to the public. It was here I was greeted by a beautiful burgundy DB12 Volante that would be my ride for the morning run, sitting alongside the new Vanquish Volante, the Vantage S, as well as Aston Martin's Valkyrie Le Mans-inspired hybrid hypercar and the new Valhalla mid-engine plug-in hybrid supercar. As a '90s kid who grew up only dreaming of ever seeing this kind of metal in person, let alone sitting in them as well as hearing their sonorous exhaust notes in real life, I was simply in awe. Our group signed indemnity forms and then quickly slipped into full-length trousers and a jumper per motorsport safety rules – mind you, it was quite possibly the hottest day of the year in the UK on that fabled Friday, peaking at around 34 degrees Celsius. Above: Assembling the Astons at Supercar Paddock No matter. Despite numerous questions of concern from Aston Martin staff that I may overheat while waiting to head to the start line, I was grinning from ear to ear and brimming with excitement for what was to come. Driving me in the DB12 Volante would be Ben Seyfried, factory driver for not only Aston Martin but also Ferrari and Maserati; he has also participated in competitive motorsport for 25 years across numerous disciplines. Big thank you to Ben for being an absolute legend and making my day. The crew of Aston Martins made a procession up towards the start line alongside other members of the 'supercar' group, which included a number of new and recent McLarens like the Artura and P1 GTR, as well as the new Lamborghini Temerario, works by Gordon Murray, and even a Pagani Huayra R. Festival goers lined the makeshift road ahead. It felt like I was part of some parade. The excitement and passion was palpable, and I think some of them might have thought I was one of Aston's racing drivers – as a Leo, I was happy to make-believe for my five minutes of supposed fame. Above: Weird and wonderful metal lining up for the Goodwood Hillclimb Rolling up to the start line there were even more incredible cars lining up for their blat up the hill. Coach-built restomods, working concepts and design studies. Stuff that I had only ever seen in pictures or video games – they were all here. In my excitement I realise I took mostly videos, not photos, of all the incredibly exotic and expensive metal that I rolled past at the starting area. If you'd like to see more, I have a special highlight on my Instagram profile here which documents my day at the event. As we slowly snaked our way around the makeshift cul-de-sac and headed towards the start line – which took what felt like an eternity – Ben and I would have little chats with staff as they walked past and did their checks. I was also busy making sure I knew how to turn on the in-car camera suctioned to the windscreen because, content. I'd hear the cars ahead go for their runs one by one, usually signalled by clouds of smoke and the symphony of engines revving to their redlines. There comes a point where all the intoxicating sounds sort of mesh together and you can't even pick up which car is setting off. I was kind of in a daze. Finally, we were rolling up to the start line. I squeezed my head (and hair) into the supplied Aston-branded race helmet. "Strapped in?" Ben asked – I tugged twice at my seatbelt to make sure (having already done this 50 times while I waited) – "yep!" I replied, then he lit up the rear tyres for dramatic effect and off we went. The DB12 Volante can be described as a seriously quick car, quoting a 0-100km/h dash in just 3.7 seconds on its way to a claimed top speed of 325km/h, but amongst its exotic company at the bottom of the Goodwood hill some might label it as mundane by comparison. I certainly had no such thought, having driven one myself back home last year. And while the Volante might be seen as a Sunset Boulevard cruiser rather than a circuit bruiser like its hard-topped sibling, I'd argue that a moment like this is best enjoyed with no roof – which is exactly what we did. The bellow of the 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 behind me, the cheers of the crowd around us, and the sheer excitement of seeing the short hillclimb stage coming through the windscreen was an incredible delight for the senses. Ben was hard on the throttle, then the brakes, then the throttle, with tight turns thrown in there for good measure. I was too focused on what was in front of me to really check the speedo, which mind you was also in miles per hour, but I'm pretty sure I glanced over and saw a big number starting with '9' on the digital speedo at one point, which means we hit at least 145km/h somewhere. Before I know it, we've crossed the finish line. Ben hits the brakes, and we coast towards the end of the track where the cars that went before us have collected in what looks like a very expensive meet. It appears the most elite of Goodwood guests have access to seating areas around the end of the track where they can see each car come through one-by-one after they've completed their run. Given the balmy English conditions, some were understandably puzzled at my fully sleeved and trousered fit compared to their shorts and T-shirts. We were quickly ushered back into our cars for the leisurely parade back to the paddock. "Have a wave if you like," Ben says, as we roll past spectators and track marshalls giving us a nod and a wave. Maybe I will. I arrived back at Supercar Paddock and had to pinch myself. What an incredible experience for my first time at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Not only did I get a front row seat at one of the world's largest automotive events with some of the coolest cars and race cars in history on display – as part of the 75 years of Formula 1 celebrations, as well as a spotlight on Gordon Murray Automotive – but I got to experience first hand what it's like to do a timed run up the famed hillclimb. I then proceeded to have a quick walk around the grounds, capping it at around one hour before making a break for the carpark so I didn't pass out in the heat. Several people told me I'd need days to see it all, and they weren't joking, I'd probably need several more laps of the grounds to get the full picture. Britain's car culture is really something to be admired. People there are really passionate about everything on four wheels and will proudly use their prized possessions as modes of transport (you should have seen the carpark finds), rather than cooping it up in a glass box or trying to flip it for a profit six to twelve months after taking delivery. I look forward to attending the Festival of Speed in future years, and absolutely cannot recommend it enough if you happen to be in the UK when it's on – just make sure you get tickets quickly, they sell out fast! Lastly, a big thank you to the team at Aston Martin and EVH Agency for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that made a little boy's dream come Explore the Aston Martin DB12 showroom Content originally sourced from: The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a mainstay bucket list item for car enthusiasts of all ages, as is getting a ride-along in an exotic supercar with a seasoned racing driver behind the wheel. On a recent holiday to Europe and the UK, I was in the right place at the right time and was offered the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed as a media guest of Aston Martin, including a stint in the passenger seat of a DB12 Volante fanging up the famed hillclimb. Obviously, I accepted this invitation with no hesitation, and after a 2.5-hour drive from my friend's house in London (shoutout to Kia UK for loaning me a new EV6), I made it to the hallowed grounds of the Goodwood event. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. After being chaperoned by Aston Martin staff through a special entrance and to the marque's guest tent, I was soon whisked away again towards the Supercar Paddock, where a slew of very high-end vehicles are kept on display to the public. It was here I was greeted by a beautiful burgundy DB12 Volante that would be my ride for the morning run, sitting alongside the new Vanquish Volante, the Vantage S, as well as Aston Martin's Valkyrie Le Mans-inspired hybrid hypercar and the new Valhalla mid-engine plug-in hybrid supercar. As a '90s kid who grew up only dreaming of ever seeing this kind of metal in person, let alone sitting in them as well as hearing their sonorous exhaust notes in real life, I was simply in awe. Our group signed indemnity forms and then quickly slipped into full-length trousers and a jumper per motorsport safety rules – mind you, it was quite possibly the hottest day of the year in the UK on that fabled Friday, peaking at around 34 degrees Celsius. Above: Assembling the Astons at Supercar Paddock No matter. Despite numerous questions of concern from Aston Martin staff that I may overheat while waiting to head to the start line, I was grinning from ear to ear and brimming with excitement for what was to come. Driving me in the DB12 Volante would be Ben Seyfried, factory driver for not only Aston Martin but also Ferrari and Maserati; he has also participated in competitive motorsport for 25 years across numerous disciplines. Big thank you to Ben for being an absolute legend and making my day. The crew of Aston Martins made a procession up towards the start line alongside other members of the 'supercar' group, which included a number of new and recent McLarens like the Artura and P1 GTR, as well as the new Lamborghini Temerario, works by Gordon Murray, and even a Pagani Huayra R. Festival goers lined the makeshift road ahead. It felt like I was part of some parade. The excitement and passion was palpable, and I think some of them might have thought I was one of Aston's racing drivers – as a Leo, I was happy to make-believe for my five minutes of supposed fame. Above: Weird and wonderful metal lining up for the Goodwood Hillclimb Rolling up to the start line there were even more incredible cars lining up for their blat up the hill. Coach-built restomods, working concepts and design studies. Stuff that I had only ever seen in pictures or video games – they were all here. In my excitement I realise I took mostly videos, not photos, of all the incredibly exotic and expensive metal that I rolled past at the starting area. If you'd like to see more, I have a special highlight on my Instagram profile here which documents my day at the event. As we slowly snaked our way around the makeshift cul-de-sac and headed towards the start line – which took what felt like an eternity – Ben and I would have little chats with staff as they walked past and did their checks. I was also busy making sure I knew how to turn on the in-car camera suctioned to the windscreen because, content. I'd hear the cars ahead go for their runs one by one, usually signalled by clouds of smoke and the symphony of engines revving to their redlines. There comes a point where all the intoxicating sounds sort of mesh together and you can't even pick up which car is setting off. I was kind of in a daze. Finally, we were rolling up to the start line. I squeezed my head (and hair) into the supplied Aston-branded race helmet. "Strapped in?" Ben asked – I tugged twice at my seatbelt to make sure (having already done this 50 times while I waited) – "yep!" I replied, then he lit up the rear tyres for dramatic effect and off we went. The DB12 Volante can be described as a seriously quick car, quoting a 0-100km/h dash in just 3.7 seconds on its way to a claimed top speed of 325km/h, but amongst its exotic company at the bottom of the Goodwood hill some might label it as mundane by comparison. I certainly had no such thought, having driven one myself back home last year. And while the Volante might be seen as a Sunset Boulevard cruiser rather than a circuit bruiser like its hard-topped sibling, I'd argue that a moment like this is best enjoyed with no roof – which is exactly what we did. The bellow of the 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 behind me, the cheers of the crowd around us, and the sheer excitement of seeing the short hillclimb stage coming through the windscreen was an incredible delight for the senses. Ben was hard on the throttle, then the brakes, then the throttle, with tight turns thrown in there for good measure. I was too focused on what was in front of me to really check the speedo, which mind you was also in miles per hour, but I'm pretty sure I glanced over and saw a big number starting with '9' on the digital speedo at one point, which means we hit at least 145km/h somewhere. Before I know it, we've crossed the finish line. Ben hits the brakes, and we coast towards the end of the track where the cars that went before us have collected in what looks like a very expensive meet. It appears the most elite of Goodwood guests have access to seating areas around the end of the track where they can see each car come through one-by-one after they've completed their run. Given the balmy English conditions, some were understandably puzzled at my fully sleeved and trousered fit compared to their shorts and T-shirts. We were quickly ushered back into our cars for the leisurely parade back to the paddock. "Have a wave if you like," Ben says, as we roll past spectators and track marshalls giving us a nod and a wave. Maybe I will. I arrived back at Supercar Paddock and had to pinch myself. What an incredible experience for my first time at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Not only did I get a front row seat at one of the world's largest automotive events with some of the coolest cars and race cars in history on display – as part of the 75 years of Formula 1 celebrations, as well as a spotlight on Gordon Murray Automotive – but I got to experience first hand what it's like to do a timed run up the famed hillclimb. I then proceeded to have a quick walk around the grounds, capping it at around one hour before making a break for the carpark so I didn't pass out in the heat. Several people told me I'd need days to see it all, and they weren't joking, I'd probably need several more laps of the grounds to get the full picture. Britain's car culture is really something to be admired. People there are really passionate about everything on four wheels and will proudly use their prized possessions as modes of transport (you should have seen the carpark finds), rather than cooping it up in a glass box or trying to flip it for a profit six to twelve months after taking delivery. I look forward to attending the Festival of Speed in future years, and absolutely cannot recommend it enough if you happen to be in the UK when it's on – just make sure you get tickets quickly, they sell out fast! Lastly, a big thank you to the team at Aston Martin and EVH Agency for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that made a little boy's dream come Explore the Aston Martin DB12 showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
17 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Ford pivots to 'super affordable EVs', delays larger models
Ford is delaying its F-150 Lightning successor, and large electric van again, as it prioritises smaller, more affordable EVs, including a Maverick-size electric ute. The automaker is teasing an event it is holding on August 11 US time in Kentucky, which CEO Jim Farley describes as a "Model T moment" for the firm. In a chat with Bloomberg Television, Mr Farley confirmed Ford will reveal the platform for "very low-end, super affordable EVs for urban duty cycles and for commercial". CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. This new platform has been developed in California with the battery integrated into the chassis, and some models have been revealed to dealers. It's believed the first product using the platform will be a small ute, around the size of today's Maverick (above). The small EV ute is due to enter production in 2027, with some rumours indicate it could resurrect the Ranchero name (1960 model pictured below). In the US, the Ranchero name was used on a series sedan-based utes from 1957 to 1979, with the donor vehicles including Falcon, Torino and LTD. It will be followed by a small electric SUV in 2028. If all goes according to plan, the platform could serve as the basis for eight different vehicles. All will be produced at the company's plant in Louisville, Kentucky, which currently manufactures the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair. Both finish their innings this year, and won't be directly replaced. In order to keep these small EVs affordable, they will be equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries made at the company's new US$3 billion ($4.6 billion) BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall, Michigan. Due to come online in 2026, the plant is scheduled to be the first to produce LFP batteries in the States. LFP batteries have less energy density than lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide batteries (NMC), but are significantly cheaper and less harmful to the environment. With Ford training its sights on the lower-end of the EV market, it is delaying the full-size electric ute, known as 'T3', that's set to replace the F-150 Lightning until 2028. It has also pushed out the date for a new electric van, thought to be the next-generation E-Transit, until 2028 also. It's unknown if European production of this van will start earlier. This isn't the first time Ford has changed its EV plans. In 2024 company cancelled plans to build a large electric three-row SUV for the US. With sales of its Volkswagen-based Explorer and Capri EVs not meeting expectations, Ford has reportedly approved the development of new internal combustion engine cars for Europe. MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from: Ford is delaying its F-150 Lightning successor, and large electric van again, as it prioritises smaller, more affordable EVs, including a Maverick-size electric ute. The automaker is teasing an event it is holding on August 11 US time in Kentucky, which CEO Jim Farley describes as a "Model T moment" for the firm. In a chat with Bloomberg Television, Mr Farley confirmed Ford will reveal the platform for "very low-end, super affordable EVs for urban duty cycles and for commercial". CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. This new platform has been developed in California with the battery integrated into the chassis, and some models have been revealed to dealers. It's believed the first product using the platform will be a small ute, around the size of today's Maverick (above). The small EV ute is due to enter production in 2027, with some rumours indicate it could resurrect the Ranchero name (1960 model pictured below). In the US, the Ranchero name was used on a series sedan-based utes from 1957 to 1979, with the donor vehicles including Falcon, Torino and LTD. It will be followed by a small electric SUV in 2028. If all goes according to plan, the platform could serve as the basis for eight different vehicles. All will be produced at the company's plant in Louisville, Kentucky, which currently manufactures the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair. Both finish their innings this year, and won't be directly replaced. In order to keep these small EVs affordable, they will be equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries made at the company's new US$3 billion ($4.6 billion) BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall, Michigan. Due to come online in 2026, the plant is scheduled to be the first to produce LFP batteries in the States. LFP batteries have less energy density than lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide batteries (NMC), but are significantly cheaper and less harmful to the environment. With Ford training its sights on the lower-end of the EV market, it is delaying the full-size electric ute, known as 'T3', that's set to replace the F-150 Lightning until 2028. It has also pushed out the date for a new electric van, thought to be the next-generation E-Transit, until 2028 also. It's unknown if European production of this van will start earlier. This isn't the first time Ford has changed its EV plans. In 2024 company cancelled plans to build a large electric three-row SUV for the US. With sales of its Volkswagen-based Explorer and Capri EVs not meeting expectations, Ford has reportedly approved the development of new internal combustion engine cars for Europe. MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from: Ford is delaying its F-150 Lightning successor, and large electric van again, as it prioritises smaller, more affordable EVs, including a Maverick-size electric ute. The automaker is teasing an event it is holding on August 11 US time in Kentucky, which CEO Jim Farley describes as a "Model T moment" for the firm. In a chat with Bloomberg Television, Mr Farley confirmed Ford will reveal the platform for "very low-end, super affordable EVs for urban duty cycles and for commercial". CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. This new platform has been developed in California with the battery integrated into the chassis, and some models have been revealed to dealers. It's believed the first product using the platform will be a small ute, around the size of today's Maverick (above). The small EV ute is due to enter production in 2027, with some rumours indicate it could resurrect the Ranchero name (1960 model pictured below). In the US, the Ranchero name was used on a series sedan-based utes from 1957 to 1979, with the donor vehicles including Falcon, Torino and LTD. It will be followed by a small electric SUV in 2028. If all goes according to plan, the platform could serve as the basis for eight different vehicles. All will be produced at the company's plant in Louisville, Kentucky, which currently manufactures the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair. Both finish their innings this year, and won't be directly replaced. In order to keep these small EVs affordable, they will be equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries made at the company's new US$3 billion ($4.6 billion) BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall, Michigan. Due to come online in 2026, the plant is scheduled to be the first to produce LFP batteries in the States. LFP batteries have less energy density than lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide batteries (NMC), but are significantly cheaper and less harmful to the environment. With Ford training its sights on the lower-end of the EV market, it is delaying the full-size electric ute, known as 'T3', that's set to replace the F-150 Lightning until 2028. It has also pushed out the date for a new electric van, thought to be the next-generation E-Transit, until 2028 also. It's unknown if European production of this van will start earlier. This isn't the first time Ford has changed its EV plans. In 2024 company cancelled plans to build a large electric three-row SUV for the US. With sales of its Volkswagen-based Explorer and Capri EVs not meeting expectations, Ford has reportedly approved the development of new internal combustion engine cars for Europe. MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from: Ford is delaying its F-150 Lightning successor, and large electric van again, as it prioritises smaller, more affordable EVs, including a Maverick-size electric ute. The automaker is teasing an event it is holding on August 11 US time in Kentucky, which CEO Jim Farley describes as a "Model T moment" for the firm. In a chat with Bloomberg Television, Mr Farley confirmed Ford will reveal the platform for "very low-end, super affordable EVs for urban duty cycles and for commercial". CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. This new platform has been developed in California with the battery integrated into the chassis, and some models have been revealed to dealers. It's believed the first product using the platform will be a small ute, around the size of today's Maverick (above). The small EV ute is due to enter production in 2027, with some rumours indicate it could resurrect the Ranchero name (1960 model pictured below). In the US, the Ranchero name was used on a series sedan-based utes from 1957 to 1979, with the donor vehicles including Falcon, Torino and LTD. It will be followed by a small electric SUV in 2028. If all goes according to plan, the platform could serve as the basis for eight different vehicles. All will be produced at the company's plant in Louisville, Kentucky, which currently manufactures the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair. Both finish their innings this year, and won't be directly replaced. In order to keep these small EVs affordable, they will be equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries made at the company's new US$3 billion ($4.6 billion) BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall, Michigan. Due to come online in 2026, the plant is scheduled to be the first to produce LFP batteries in the States. LFP batteries have less energy density than lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide batteries (NMC), but are significantly cheaper and less harmful to the environment. With Ford training its sights on the lower-end of the EV market, it is delaying the full-size electric ute, known as 'T3', that's set to replace the F-150 Lightning until 2028. It has also pushed out the date for a new electric van, thought to be the next-generation E-Transit, until 2028 also. It's unknown if European production of this van will start earlier. This isn't the first time Ford has changed its EV plans. In 2024 company cancelled plans to build a large electric three-row SUV for the US. With sales of its Volkswagen-based Explorer and Capri EVs not meeting expectations, Ford has reportedly approved the development of new internal combustion engine cars for Europe. MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
17 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Renault "well-positioned" to meet new Australian emissions regulations
Penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) are now in effect, but Renault Australia says it isn't worried about being able to meet any mandated targets. The French brand only sells two electric vehicles (EV) in Australia, the Megane E-Tech and Kangoo E-Tech, and only recently introduced a mild-hybrid in the form of the Duster. That's despite Renault offering several models with mild-, full-, or plug-in hybrid powertrains, plus more EVs, in overseas markets such as Europe. Though hardly any of those European models have been confirmed for Australia, the brand's local general manager Glen Sealey says nothing is off the cards and maintains NVES is just another regulatory framework to adhere to. "From a Renault perspective… we always respect the umpire's decision. That's the regulatory framework that is out there today, and that's the framework that we will operate under," he told media at the local launch for the Duster. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Renault Megane E-Tech "Renault as a brand is European-based, so we have a fantastic product range to operate within an environment where NVES is in play." Renault, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's passenger vehicles fit into the Type 1 NVES category, which means the fleet is currently subject to average carbon dioxide emissions of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop each year, eventually reaching 58g/km in 2029. Unfortunately for Renault, only mild-hybrid Duster variants and the Arkana are below that limit, which likely won't be enough to offset emissions from the rest of the fleet. The brand's commercial lineup – Kangoo, Trafic, and Master – is subject to the current Type 2 vehicle limit of 210g/km, and all three are 'clean' enough for now. Above: Renault Kangoo E-Tech Renault Australia has confirmed six new models and updates will come in the next 18 months, including the new Captur – potentially with hybrid tech – and the niche Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which will be an exclusive performance EV. While unconfirmed, further models are likely to have some degree of electrification. "When we look at those six new models to come, there's a bit of water under the bridge, there's currency, there's regulatory changes, there's tariff changes rolling around the place," Mr Sealey said. "It's a very dynamic environment. So for me to sit here and say 'I'll definitely have that car tomorrow', I wouldn't be prepared to do that. "But what I can say, I do know I've got six of them coming. They may vary between now and then, but in terms of electrification, going back to that, you would have to say there is still going to be a baseline for electrification in Australia." Above: Renault Symbioz (overseas model) Mr Sealey explained that in 2024, before NVES came into effect, EVs held a market share of 8.0 per cent. Following the start of the NVES, in the first half of 2025 the share remained similar at 7.6 per cent. "So the one thing that we do see, and all car companies must respect, is [that] it is the consumer that drives the market, and so it will be the consumer that dictates whether electrification is adopted further," Mr Sealey said. When asked whether Renault Australia is expecting to have to pay fines for exceeding CO2 limits, Mr Sealey replied, "We're well-positioned to operate within an NVES environment." "When you look at Renault, we have typically four-cylinder engines, very efficient, we're lightweight, so you would have to say, no," he said. MORE: Renault is readying six new and updated models for Australia, but which? MORE: Everything Renault Content originally sourced from: Penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) are now in effect, but Renault Australia says it isn't worried about being able to meet any mandated targets. The French brand only sells two electric vehicles (EV) in Australia, the Megane E-Tech and Kangoo E-Tech, and only recently introduced a mild-hybrid in the form of the Duster. That's despite Renault offering several models with mild-, full-, or plug-in hybrid powertrains, plus more EVs, in overseas markets such as Europe. Though hardly any of those European models have been confirmed for Australia, the brand's local general manager Glen Sealey says nothing is off the cards and maintains NVES is just another regulatory framework to adhere to. "From a Renault perspective… we always respect the umpire's decision. That's the regulatory framework that is out there today, and that's the framework that we will operate under," he told media at the local launch for the Duster. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Renault Megane E-Tech "Renault as a brand is European-based, so we have a fantastic product range to operate within an environment where NVES is in play." Renault, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's passenger vehicles fit into the Type 1 NVES category, which means the fleet is currently subject to average carbon dioxide emissions of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop each year, eventually reaching 58g/km in 2029. Unfortunately for Renault, only mild-hybrid Duster variants and the Arkana are below that limit, which likely won't be enough to offset emissions from the rest of the fleet. The brand's commercial lineup – Kangoo, Trafic, and Master – is subject to the current Type 2 vehicle limit of 210g/km, and all three are 'clean' enough for now. Above: Renault Kangoo E-Tech Renault Australia has confirmed six new models and updates will come in the next 18 months, including the new Captur – potentially with hybrid tech – and the niche Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which will be an exclusive performance EV. While unconfirmed, further models are likely to have some degree of electrification. "When we look at those six new models to come, there's a bit of water under the bridge, there's currency, there's regulatory changes, there's tariff changes rolling around the place," Mr Sealey said. "It's a very dynamic environment. So for me to sit here and say 'I'll definitely have that car tomorrow', I wouldn't be prepared to do that. "But what I can say, I do know I've got six of them coming. They may vary between now and then, but in terms of electrification, going back to that, you would have to say there is still going to be a baseline for electrification in Australia." Above: Renault Symbioz (overseas model) Mr Sealey explained that in 2024, before NVES came into effect, EVs held a market share of 8.0 per cent. Following the start of the NVES, in the first half of 2025 the share remained similar at 7.6 per cent. "So the one thing that we do see, and all car companies must respect, is [that] it is the consumer that drives the market, and so it will be the consumer that dictates whether electrification is adopted further," Mr Sealey said. When asked whether Renault Australia is expecting to have to pay fines for exceeding CO2 limits, Mr Sealey replied, "We're well-positioned to operate within an NVES environment." "When you look at Renault, we have typically four-cylinder engines, very efficient, we're lightweight, so you would have to say, no," he said. MORE: Renault is readying six new and updated models for Australia, but which? MORE: Everything Renault Content originally sourced from: Penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) are now in effect, but Renault Australia says it isn't worried about being able to meet any mandated targets. The French brand only sells two electric vehicles (EV) in Australia, the Megane E-Tech and Kangoo E-Tech, and only recently introduced a mild-hybrid in the form of the Duster. That's despite Renault offering several models with mild-, full-, or plug-in hybrid powertrains, plus more EVs, in overseas markets such as Europe. Though hardly any of those European models have been confirmed for Australia, the brand's local general manager Glen Sealey says nothing is off the cards and maintains NVES is just another regulatory framework to adhere to. "From a Renault perspective… we always respect the umpire's decision. That's the regulatory framework that is out there today, and that's the framework that we will operate under," he told media at the local launch for the Duster. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Renault Megane E-Tech "Renault as a brand is European-based, so we have a fantastic product range to operate within an environment where NVES is in play." Renault, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's passenger vehicles fit into the Type 1 NVES category, which means the fleet is currently subject to average carbon dioxide emissions of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop each year, eventually reaching 58g/km in 2029. Unfortunately for Renault, only mild-hybrid Duster variants and the Arkana are below that limit, which likely won't be enough to offset emissions from the rest of the fleet. The brand's commercial lineup – Kangoo, Trafic, and Master – is subject to the current Type 2 vehicle limit of 210g/km, and all three are 'clean' enough for now. Above: Renault Kangoo E-Tech Renault Australia has confirmed six new models and updates will come in the next 18 months, including the new Captur – potentially with hybrid tech – and the niche Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which will be an exclusive performance EV. While unconfirmed, further models are likely to have some degree of electrification. "When we look at those six new models to come, there's a bit of water under the bridge, there's currency, there's regulatory changes, there's tariff changes rolling around the place," Mr Sealey said. "It's a very dynamic environment. So for me to sit here and say 'I'll definitely have that car tomorrow', I wouldn't be prepared to do that. "But what I can say, I do know I've got six of them coming. They may vary between now and then, but in terms of electrification, going back to that, you would have to say there is still going to be a baseline for electrification in Australia." Above: Renault Symbioz (overseas model) Mr Sealey explained that in 2024, before NVES came into effect, EVs held a market share of 8.0 per cent. Following the start of the NVES, in the first half of 2025 the share remained similar at 7.6 per cent. "So the one thing that we do see, and all car companies must respect, is [that] it is the consumer that drives the market, and so it will be the consumer that dictates whether electrification is adopted further," Mr Sealey said. When asked whether Renault Australia is expecting to have to pay fines for exceeding CO2 limits, Mr Sealey replied, "We're well-positioned to operate within an NVES environment." "When you look at Renault, we have typically four-cylinder engines, very efficient, we're lightweight, so you would have to say, no," he said. MORE: Renault is readying six new and updated models for Australia, but which? MORE: Everything Renault Content originally sourced from: Penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) are now in effect, but Renault Australia says it isn't worried about being able to meet any mandated targets. The French brand only sells two electric vehicles (EV) in Australia, the Megane E-Tech and Kangoo E-Tech, and only recently introduced a mild-hybrid in the form of the Duster. That's despite Renault offering several models with mild-, full-, or plug-in hybrid powertrains, plus more EVs, in overseas markets such as Europe. Though hardly any of those European models have been confirmed for Australia, the brand's local general manager Glen Sealey says nothing is off the cards and maintains NVES is just another regulatory framework to adhere to. "From a Renault perspective… we always respect the umpire's decision. That's the regulatory framework that is out there today, and that's the framework that we will operate under," he told media at the local launch for the Duster. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Renault Megane E-Tech "Renault as a brand is European-based, so we have a fantastic product range to operate within an environment where NVES is in play." Renault, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's passenger vehicles fit into the Type 1 NVES category, which means the fleet is currently subject to average carbon dioxide emissions of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop each year, eventually reaching 58g/km in 2029. Unfortunately for Renault, only mild-hybrid Duster variants and the Arkana are below that limit, which likely won't be enough to offset emissions from the rest of the fleet. The brand's commercial lineup – Kangoo, Trafic, and Master – is subject to the current Type 2 vehicle limit of 210g/km, and all three are 'clean' enough for now. Above: Renault Kangoo E-Tech Renault Australia has confirmed six new models and updates will come in the next 18 months, including the new Captur – potentially with hybrid tech – and the niche Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which will be an exclusive performance EV. While unconfirmed, further models are likely to have some degree of electrification. "When we look at those six new models to come, there's a bit of water under the bridge, there's currency, there's regulatory changes, there's tariff changes rolling around the place," Mr Sealey said. "It's a very dynamic environment. So for me to sit here and say 'I'll definitely have that car tomorrow', I wouldn't be prepared to do that. "But what I can say, I do know I've got six of them coming. They may vary between now and then, but in terms of electrification, going back to that, you would have to say there is still going to be a baseline for electrification in Australia." Above: Renault Symbioz (overseas model) Mr Sealey explained that in 2024, before NVES came into effect, EVs held a market share of 8.0 per cent. Following the start of the NVES, in the first half of 2025 the share remained similar at 7.6 per cent. "So the one thing that we do see, and all car companies must respect, is [that] it is the consumer that drives the market, and so it will be the consumer that dictates whether electrification is adopted further," Mr Sealey said. When asked whether Renault Australia is expecting to have to pay fines for exceeding CO2 limits, Mr Sealey replied, "We're well-positioned to operate within an NVES environment." "When you look at Renault, we have typically four-cylinder engines, very efficient, we're lightweight, so you would have to say, no," he said. MORE: Renault is readying six new and updated models for Australia, but which? MORE: Everything Renault Content originally sourced from:
