Why Chery Australia is bringing its Toyota Kluger rival with only PHEV power
The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is due in Australia in the third quarter (July to September) of 2025, and it has now been confirmed that it will only be available in this PHEV guise – a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol powertrain, available overseas, won't be offered here at launch.
Speaking at the local launch for the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids, Chery Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris confirmed to CarExpert that the brand will 'only introduce the Super Hybrid variant of Tiggo 9' and outlined several reasons why.
'Frankly, I think it's a better car. We, as a global business, are much more focused on moving towards new energy, which is obviously Super Hybrid and BEV (battery-electric vehicle),' he said.
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'The Super Hybrid Tiggo 9 performance is exceptional, I think we'll be able to price it – like our other products – very competitively, and to be able to deliver great value.
'I'm just not sure that in our lineup, if you look at all the way from Tiggo 4 right through to Tiggo 9, it doesn't make sense in that lineup to introduce an [internal combustion] Tiggo 9.'
Chery Australia hasn't confirmed performance, range or economy figures, but has confirmed the local Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid will use a turbo 1.5-litre engine mated with a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, like the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8.
For context, the petrol powertrain available overseas features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission, with drive sent to all four wheels.
'If we were to introduce [the petrol] hypothetically, it probably would end up being priced very similarly to a Tiggo 8 plug-in hybrid, for example,' Mr Harris told CarExpert.
'In which case, it doesn't make much sense, and the driving experience in those Super Hybrids is just so much better than any ICE vehicle. I just don't think it would add any depth to the product range by offering too many models.'
Pricing for the Tiggo 9 has yet to be confirmed, though the smaller Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is priced from $45,990 to $49,990 drive-away.
The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is therefore expected to be more expensive, likely around $55,000, although it could still significantly undercut rivals such as the Mazda CX-80 P50e (priced from $76,245 before on-roads) and the Kia Sorento PHEV (from $84,660 before on-roads).
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The Advertiser
3 hours ago
- The Advertiser
MG to expand its small EV lineup in Australia with a second MG 4
MG Motor Australia has locked in the new MG 4 electric hatchback revealed in China earlier this year for local release, but it won't replace the existing MG 4. Instead, MG will position the more softly styled, front-wheel drive hatch beneath the existing rear- and all-wheel drive model in Australia. "The new-for-2026 front-wheel drive [model] will be a completely different vehicle, perfect for the city. Balancing driver usage needs and production cost considerations of rear-wheel drive, we saw the opportunity for an affordable FWD vehicle to complement the MG4 RWD and AWD," said MG Motor Australia CEO Peter Ciao. MG says the new front-drive MG 4 isn't expected to be available Down Under until the second quarter of 2026. It appears MG will apply the MG 4 name to all versions of the new hatch, though it has trademarked the MG 4 Urban nameplate Down Under. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new MG 4. Click here to get a great deal. Above: RWD/AWD MG 4, FWD MG 4 It'll be offered here with 43kWh and 54kWh batteries, while the existing MG 4 will be available here only with a larger 64kWh battery. That will see the base 51kWh battery pack, as well as the Long Range's 77kWh, dropped in our market. MG also promises the current rear/all-wheel drive hatch will bring "updated features", which will be accompanied by higher prices, so it's urging buyers to "snare their piece of history now, under $40k drive-away". The current MG 4 is available with a 51kWh battery offering 350km of WLTP range, a 64kWh battery offering between 400km and 450km of range, and a 77kWh battery offering 530km of range. The Excite 51 produces 125kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with the Excite 64 and Essence 64 receiving a bump in power to 150kW, and the Long Range 77 pumping out 180kW and 350Nm. The flagship XPower, the only dual-motor all-wheel drive variant, produces 320kW and 600Nm. The new MG 4, in contrast, is offered with a single 120kW/250Nm front-mounted electric motor. Its 42.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery offers 437km of range, while its 53.95kWh LFP battery offers 530km. However, both figures are based on the more lenient CLTC cycle used in China. MG has also confirmed it'll introduce a semi-solid-state battery for the new MG 4 in China later this year. The new MG 4 also features MacPherson strut front suspension but a torsion beam rear, unlike the existing MG 4 which has multi-link independent rear suspension. Inside, there are 30 storage spaces, including a 98-litre concealed dry/wet separation storage space under the boot floor. Other handy features include soft-light mirrors up front "designed for women's makeup and touchups", a ventilated 50W wireless phone charger, and a 1.8 square-metre 'king bed mode' when you drop the 60:40-split rear seats. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, but a larger 15.6-inch unit brings MG x Oppo Smart Car Connectivity. Available equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, 256-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof with power sunshade. Down back, there's 471L of boot space, expanding to 1362L with the rear seats folded. The MG 4 measures 4395mm long, 1842mm wide, 1551mm tall and rides a 2750mm wheelbase. That makes it 108mm longer, 6mm wider and up to 47mm taller than the current MG 4, on a 45mm longer wheelbase. It weighs between 1415kg and 1485kg, and rides on a different platform to the existing MG 4 and the related MG S5 EV small electric SUV, which are based on MG's Modular Scalable Platform. It's unclear how much the new front-wheel drive MG 4 will cost in Australia. The rival BYD Dolphin is priced from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the GWM Ora is currently being offered from $33,990 drive-away. MG has previously offered the existing MG 4 from as little as $30,990 drive-away. MORE: 2026 MG 4 detailed: Softer front-wheel drive hatch to get semi-solid-state battery MORE: Explore the MG 4 showroom Content originally sourced from: MG Motor Australia has locked in the new MG 4 electric hatchback revealed in China earlier this year for local release, but it won't replace the existing MG 4. Instead, MG will position the more softly styled, front-wheel drive hatch beneath the existing rear- and all-wheel drive model in Australia. "The new-for-2026 front-wheel drive [model] will be a completely different vehicle, perfect for the city. Balancing driver usage needs and production cost considerations of rear-wheel drive, we saw the opportunity for an affordable FWD vehicle to complement the MG4 RWD and AWD," said MG Motor Australia CEO Peter Ciao. MG says the new front-drive MG 4 isn't expected to be available Down Under until the second quarter of 2026. It appears MG will apply the MG 4 name to all versions of the new hatch, though it has trademarked the MG 4 Urban nameplate Down Under. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new MG 4. Click here to get a great deal. Above: RWD/AWD MG 4, FWD MG 4 It'll be offered here with 43kWh and 54kWh batteries, while the existing MG 4 will be available here only with a larger 64kWh battery. That will see the base 51kWh battery pack, as well as the Long Range's 77kWh, dropped in our market. MG also promises the current rear/all-wheel drive hatch will bring "updated features", which will be accompanied by higher prices, so it's urging buyers to "snare their piece of history now, under $40k drive-away". The current MG 4 is available with a 51kWh battery offering 350km of WLTP range, a 64kWh battery offering between 400km and 450km of range, and a 77kWh battery offering 530km of range. The Excite 51 produces 125kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with the Excite 64 and Essence 64 receiving a bump in power to 150kW, and the Long Range 77 pumping out 180kW and 350Nm. The flagship XPower, the only dual-motor all-wheel drive variant, produces 320kW and 600Nm. The new MG 4, in contrast, is offered with a single 120kW/250Nm front-mounted electric motor. Its 42.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery offers 437km of range, while its 53.95kWh LFP battery offers 530km. However, both figures are based on the more lenient CLTC cycle used in China. MG has also confirmed it'll introduce a semi-solid-state battery for the new MG 4 in China later this year. The new MG 4 also features MacPherson strut front suspension but a torsion beam rear, unlike the existing MG 4 which has multi-link independent rear suspension. Inside, there are 30 storage spaces, including a 98-litre concealed dry/wet separation storage space under the boot floor. Other handy features include soft-light mirrors up front "designed for women's makeup and touchups", a ventilated 50W wireless phone charger, and a 1.8 square-metre 'king bed mode' when you drop the 60:40-split rear seats. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, but a larger 15.6-inch unit brings MG x Oppo Smart Car Connectivity. Available equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, 256-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof with power sunshade. Down back, there's 471L of boot space, expanding to 1362L with the rear seats folded. The MG 4 measures 4395mm long, 1842mm wide, 1551mm tall and rides a 2750mm wheelbase. That makes it 108mm longer, 6mm wider and up to 47mm taller than the current MG 4, on a 45mm longer wheelbase. It weighs between 1415kg and 1485kg, and rides on a different platform to the existing MG 4 and the related MG S5 EV small electric SUV, which are based on MG's Modular Scalable Platform. It's unclear how much the new front-wheel drive MG 4 will cost in Australia. The rival BYD Dolphin is priced from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the GWM Ora is currently being offered from $33,990 drive-away. MG has previously offered the existing MG 4 from as little as $30,990 drive-away. MORE: 2026 MG 4 detailed: Softer front-wheel drive hatch to get semi-solid-state battery MORE: Explore the MG 4 showroom Content originally sourced from: MG Motor Australia has locked in the new MG 4 electric hatchback revealed in China earlier this year for local release, but it won't replace the existing MG 4. Instead, MG will position the more softly styled, front-wheel drive hatch beneath the existing rear- and all-wheel drive model in Australia. "The new-for-2026 front-wheel drive [model] will be a completely different vehicle, perfect for the city. Balancing driver usage needs and production cost considerations of rear-wheel drive, we saw the opportunity for an affordable FWD vehicle to complement the MG4 RWD and AWD," said MG Motor Australia CEO Peter Ciao. MG says the new front-drive MG 4 isn't expected to be available Down Under until the second quarter of 2026. It appears MG will apply the MG 4 name to all versions of the new hatch, though it has trademarked the MG 4 Urban nameplate Down Under. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new MG 4. Click here to get a great deal. Above: RWD/AWD MG 4, FWD MG 4 It'll be offered here with 43kWh and 54kWh batteries, while the existing MG 4 will be available here only with a larger 64kWh battery. That will see the base 51kWh battery pack, as well as the Long Range's 77kWh, dropped in our market. MG also promises the current rear/all-wheel drive hatch will bring "updated features", which will be accompanied by higher prices, so it's urging buyers to "snare their piece of history now, under $40k drive-away". The current MG 4 is available with a 51kWh battery offering 350km of WLTP range, a 64kWh battery offering between 400km and 450km of range, and a 77kWh battery offering 530km of range. The Excite 51 produces 125kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with the Excite 64 and Essence 64 receiving a bump in power to 150kW, and the Long Range 77 pumping out 180kW and 350Nm. The flagship XPower, the only dual-motor all-wheel drive variant, produces 320kW and 600Nm. The new MG 4, in contrast, is offered with a single 120kW/250Nm front-mounted electric motor. Its 42.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery offers 437km of range, while its 53.95kWh LFP battery offers 530km. However, both figures are based on the more lenient CLTC cycle used in China. MG has also confirmed it'll introduce a semi-solid-state battery for the new MG 4 in China later this year. The new MG 4 also features MacPherson strut front suspension but a torsion beam rear, unlike the existing MG 4 which has multi-link independent rear suspension. Inside, there are 30 storage spaces, including a 98-litre concealed dry/wet separation storage space under the boot floor. Other handy features include soft-light mirrors up front "designed for women's makeup and touchups", a ventilated 50W wireless phone charger, and a 1.8 square-metre 'king bed mode' when you drop the 60:40-split rear seats. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, but a larger 15.6-inch unit brings MG x Oppo Smart Car Connectivity. Available equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, 256-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof with power sunshade. Down back, there's 471L of boot space, expanding to 1362L with the rear seats folded. The MG 4 measures 4395mm long, 1842mm wide, 1551mm tall and rides a 2750mm wheelbase. That makes it 108mm longer, 6mm wider and up to 47mm taller than the current MG 4, on a 45mm longer wheelbase. It weighs between 1415kg and 1485kg, and rides on a different platform to the existing MG 4 and the related MG S5 EV small electric SUV, which are based on MG's Modular Scalable Platform. It's unclear how much the new front-wheel drive MG 4 will cost in Australia. The rival BYD Dolphin is priced from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the GWM Ora is currently being offered from $33,990 drive-away. MG has previously offered the existing MG 4 from as little as $30,990 drive-away. MORE: 2026 MG 4 detailed: Softer front-wheel drive hatch to get semi-solid-state battery MORE: Explore the MG 4 showroom Content originally sourced from: MG Motor Australia has locked in the new MG 4 electric hatchback revealed in China earlier this year for local release, but it won't replace the existing MG 4. Instead, MG will position the more softly styled, front-wheel drive hatch beneath the existing rear- and all-wheel drive model in Australia. "The new-for-2026 front-wheel drive [model] will be a completely different vehicle, perfect for the city. Balancing driver usage needs and production cost considerations of rear-wheel drive, we saw the opportunity for an affordable FWD vehicle to complement the MG4 RWD and AWD," said MG Motor Australia CEO Peter Ciao. MG says the new front-drive MG 4 isn't expected to be available Down Under until the second quarter of 2026. It appears MG will apply the MG 4 name to all versions of the new hatch, though it has trademarked the MG 4 Urban nameplate Down Under. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new MG 4. Click here to get a great deal. Above: RWD/AWD MG 4, FWD MG 4 It'll be offered here with 43kWh and 54kWh batteries, while the existing MG 4 will be available here only with a larger 64kWh battery. That will see the base 51kWh battery pack, as well as the Long Range's 77kWh, dropped in our market. MG also promises the current rear/all-wheel drive hatch will bring "updated features", which will be accompanied by higher prices, so it's urging buyers to "snare their piece of history now, under $40k drive-away". The current MG 4 is available with a 51kWh battery offering 350km of WLTP range, a 64kWh battery offering between 400km and 450km of range, and a 77kWh battery offering 530km of range. The Excite 51 produces 125kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with the Excite 64 and Essence 64 receiving a bump in power to 150kW, and the Long Range 77 pumping out 180kW and 350Nm. The flagship XPower, the only dual-motor all-wheel drive variant, produces 320kW and 600Nm. The new MG 4, in contrast, is offered with a single 120kW/250Nm front-mounted electric motor. Its 42.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery offers 437km of range, while its 53.95kWh LFP battery offers 530km. However, both figures are based on the more lenient CLTC cycle used in China. MG has also confirmed it'll introduce a semi-solid-state battery for the new MG 4 in China later this year. The new MG 4 also features MacPherson strut front suspension but a torsion beam rear, unlike the existing MG 4 which has multi-link independent rear suspension. Inside, there are 30 storage spaces, including a 98-litre concealed dry/wet separation storage space under the boot floor. Other handy features include soft-light mirrors up front "designed for women's makeup and touchups", a ventilated 50W wireless phone charger, and a 1.8 square-metre 'king bed mode' when you drop the 60:40-split rear seats. A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, but a larger 15.6-inch unit brings MG x Oppo Smart Car Connectivity. Available equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, 256-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof with power sunshade. Down back, there's 471L of boot space, expanding to 1362L with the rear seats folded. The MG 4 measures 4395mm long, 1842mm wide, 1551mm tall and rides a 2750mm wheelbase. That makes it 108mm longer, 6mm wider and up to 47mm taller than the current MG 4, on a 45mm longer wheelbase. It weighs between 1415kg and 1485kg, and rides on a different platform to the existing MG 4 and the related MG S5 EV small electric SUV, which are based on MG's Modular Scalable Platform. It's unclear how much the new front-wheel drive MG 4 will cost in Australia. The rival BYD Dolphin is priced from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the GWM Ora is currently being offered from $33,990 drive-away. MG has previously offered the existing MG 4 from as little as $30,990 drive-away. MORE: 2026 MG 4 detailed: Softer front-wheel drive hatch to get semi-solid-state battery MORE: Explore the MG 4 showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
3 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2025 Isuzu D-Max and MU-X to gain new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel
The Isuzu D-Max and MU-X will become available with the Japanese brand's new turbocharged 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the fourth quarter of this year. As in Thailand, where both vehicles are produced for Australia, CarExpert understands the larger and higher-output turbo-diesel will replace the unloved 1.9-litre oil-burner as the entry-level engine in Isuzu Ute Australia's two diesel-powered models. And we expect the new 2.2-litre engine, which is claimed to consume about 10 per cent less fuel than the 1.9-litre engine it replaces, will soon also power entry-level versions of the D-Max's twin, the Mazda BT-50. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Ford Ranger. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. While Isuzu's big-bore 3.0-litre turbo-diesel will continue to be the flagship engine for the popular D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV (and the BT-50 ute) lineups, the new 2.2-litre engine will play a key role in reducing IUA's and Mazda Australia's exposure to emissions-related penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). Given its higher outputs and improved efficiency, it's also likely to be more popular than the 1.9-litre engine, which made its local debut in the D-Max in 2022 before becoming available in the MU-X in 2024. We understand the 1.9-litre engine has attracted fewer than 100 sales annually in the D-Max, which was Australia's third most popular 4×4 ute in 2024 – behind only the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux – with more than 24,000 sales. Above: Thai-market MU-X 2.2. First revealed in November 2024, Isuzu's new 2.2-litre diesel was listed by IUA as one of a range of powertrains options it could employ to lower its fleet-average CO2 emissions. These include the battery-electric D-Max EV, which could top $100,000 based on UK pricing and is therefore expected to be a low-volume vehicle. At the other end of the scale, IUA is working on a hardcore Walkinshaw-developed Blade version of the MU-X, to join the D-Max Blade. Isuzu's new '2.2 Ddi Maxforce' engine (codenamed RZ4F) is based on and replaces the 1.9-litre RZ4E engine, which produces just 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. The new engine develops 120kW at 3600rpm and 400Nm over 1600-2400rpm, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission (rather than a six-speed unit as per the 1.9- and 3.0-litre diesels), which Isuzu says brings improved performance and fuel economy. That's only 20kW and 50Nm less than the 140kW/450Nm '4J' 3.0-litre diesel that has long powered the D-Max and MU-X, and which will eventually be replaced by the new 2.2. A mild-hybrid (MHEV) version of the 1.9-litre, revealed earlier last year, will remain on sale in Thailand in a single rear-wheel drive pickup variant. This produces an identical 110kW and 350Nm to the regular 1.9-litre. It's unclear at this stage if the 2.2-litre (pictured above) will eventually gain a mild-hybrid system. While Isuzu hasn't published fuel consumption figures, it says fuel economy has been improved by up to 10 per cent over the outgoing 1.9-litre. According to Australian figures, D-Max variants with the 1.9-litre use between 6.7 and 7.0L/100km. The new 2.2-litre stacks up better against the entry-level four-cylinder turbo-diesels in the Ranger and HiLux. The base HiLux Workmate's 2.4-litre engine produces 110kW and 400Nm, while the Ranger's single-turbo 2.0-litre engine makes 125kW and 405Nm, and both of them are matched with a six-speed (rather than eight-speed) auto. MORE: Explore the Isuzu D-Max showroom MORE: Explore the Isuzu MU-X showroom Content originally sourced from: The Isuzu D-Max and MU-X will become available with the Japanese brand's new turbocharged 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the fourth quarter of this year. As in Thailand, where both vehicles are produced for Australia, CarExpert understands the larger and higher-output turbo-diesel will replace the unloved 1.9-litre oil-burner as the entry-level engine in Isuzu Ute Australia's two diesel-powered models. And we expect the new 2.2-litre engine, which is claimed to consume about 10 per cent less fuel than the 1.9-litre engine it replaces, will soon also power entry-level versions of the D-Max's twin, the Mazda BT-50. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Ford Ranger. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. While Isuzu's big-bore 3.0-litre turbo-diesel will continue to be the flagship engine for the popular D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV (and the BT-50 ute) lineups, the new 2.2-litre engine will play a key role in reducing IUA's and Mazda Australia's exposure to emissions-related penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). Given its higher outputs and improved efficiency, it's also likely to be more popular than the 1.9-litre engine, which made its local debut in the D-Max in 2022 before becoming available in the MU-X in 2024. We understand the 1.9-litre engine has attracted fewer than 100 sales annually in the D-Max, which was Australia's third most popular 4×4 ute in 2024 – behind only the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux – with more than 24,000 sales. Above: Thai-market MU-X 2.2. First revealed in November 2024, Isuzu's new 2.2-litre diesel was listed by IUA as one of a range of powertrains options it could employ to lower its fleet-average CO2 emissions. These include the battery-electric D-Max EV, which could top $100,000 based on UK pricing and is therefore expected to be a low-volume vehicle. At the other end of the scale, IUA is working on a hardcore Walkinshaw-developed Blade version of the MU-X, to join the D-Max Blade. Isuzu's new '2.2 Ddi Maxforce' engine (codenamed RZ4F) is based on and replaces the 1.9-litre RZ4E engine, which produces just 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. The new engine develops 120kW at 3600rpm and 400Nm over 1600-2400rpm, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission (rather than a six-speed unit as per the 1.9- and 3.0-litre diesels), which Isuzu says brings improved performance and fuel economy. That's only 20kW and 50Nm less than the 140kW/450Nm '4J' 3.0-litre diesel that has long powered the D-Max and MU-X, and which will eventually be replaced by the new 2.2. A mild-hybrid (MHEV) version of the 1.9-litre, revealed earlier last year, will remain on sale in Thailand in a single rear-wheel drive pickup variant. This produces an identical 110kW and 350Nm to the regular 1.9-litre. It's unclear at this stage if the 2.2-litre (pictured above) will eventually gain a mild-hybrid system. While Isuzu hasn't published fuel consumption figures, it says fuel economy has been improved by up to 10 per cent over the outgoing 1.9-litre. According to Australian figures, D-Max variants with the 1.9-litre use between 6.7 and 7.0L/100km. The new 2.2-litre stacks up better against the entry-level four-cylinder turbo-diesels in the Ranger and HiLux. The base HiLux Workmate's 2.4-litre engine produces 110kW and 400Nm, while the Ranger's single-turbo 2.0-litre engine makes 125kW and 405Nm, and both of them are matched with a six-speed (rather than eight-speed) auto. MORE: Explore the Isuzu D-Max showroom MORE: Explore the Isuzu MU-X showroom Content originally sourced from: The Isuzu D-Max and MU-X will become available with the Japanese brand's new turbocharged 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the fourth quarter of this year. As in Thailand, where both vehicles are produced for Australia, CarExpert understands the larger and higher-output turbo-diesel will replace the unloved 1.9-litre oil-burner as the entry-level engine in Isuzu Ute Australia's two diesel-powered models. And we expect the new 2.2-litre engine, which is claimed to consume about 10 per cent less fuel than the 1.9-litre engine it replaces, will soon also power entry-level versions of the D-Max's twin, the Mazda BT-50. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Ford Ranger. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. While Isuzu's big-bore 3.0-litre turbo-diesel will continue to be the flagship engine for the popular D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV (and the BT-50 ute) lineups, the new 2.2-litre engine will play a key role in reducing IUA's and Mazda Australia's exposure to emissions-related penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). Given its higher outputs and improved efficiency, it's also likely to be more popular than the 1.9-litre engine, which made its local debut in the D-Max in 2022 before becoming available in the MU-X in 2024. We understand the 1.9-litre engine has attracted fewer than 100 sales annually in the D-Max, which was Australia's third most popular 4×4 ute in 2024 – behind only the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux – with more than 24,000 sales. Above: Thai-market MU-X 2.2. First revealed in November 2024, Isuzu's new 2.2-litre diesel was listed by IUA as one of a range of powertrains options it could employ to lower its fleet-average CO2 emissions. These include the battery-electric D-Max EV, which could top $100,000 based on UK pricing and is therefore expected to be a low-volume vehicle. At the other end of the scale, IUA is working on a hardcore Walkinshaw-developed Blade version of the MU-X, to join the D-Max Blade. Isuzu's new '2.2 Ddi Maxforce' engine (codenamed RZ4F) is based on and replaces the 1.9-litre RZ4E engine, which produces just 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. The new engine develops 120kW at 3600rpm and 400Nm over 1600-2400rpm, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission (rather than a six-speed unit as per the 1.9- and 3.0-litre diesels), which Isuzu says brings improved performance and fuel economy. That's only 20kW and 50Nm less than the 140kW/450Nm '4J' 3.0-litre diesel that has long powered the D-Max and MU-X, and which will eventually be replaced by the new 2.2. A mild-hybrid (MHEV) version of the 1.9-litre, revealed earlier last year, will remain on sale in Thailand in a single rear-wheel drive pickup variant. This produces an identical 110kW and 350Nm to the regular 1.9-litre. It's unclear at this stage if the 2.2-litre (pictured above) will eventually gain a mild-hybrid system. While Isuzu hasn't published fuel consumption figures, it says fuel economy has been improved by up to 10 per cent over the outgoing 1.9-litre. According to Australian figures, D-Max variants with the 1.9-litre use between 6.7 and 7.0L/100km. The new 2.2-litre stacks up better against the entry-level four-cylinder turbo-diesels in the Ranger and HiLux. The base HiLux Workmate's 2.4-litre engine produces 110kW and 400Nm, while the Ranger's single-turbo 2.0-litre engine makes 125kW and 405Nm, and both of them are matched with a six-speed (rather than eight-speed) auto. MORE: Explore the Isuzu D-Max showroom MORE: Explore the Isuzu MU-X showroom Content originally sourced from: The Isuzu D-Max and MU-X will become available with the Japanese brand's new turbocharged 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the fourth quarter of this year. As in Thailand, where both vehicles are produced for Australia, CarExpert understands the larger and higher-output turbo-diesel will replace the unloved 1.9-litre oil-burner as the entry-level engine in Isuzu Ute Australia's two diesel-powered models. And we expect the new 2.2-litre engine, which is claimed to consume about 10 per cent less fuel than the 1.9-litre engine it replaces, will soon also power entry-level versions of the D-Max's twin, the Mazda BT-50. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Ford Ranger. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. While Isuzu's big-bore 3.0-litre turbo-diesel will continue to be the flagship engine for the popular D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV (and the BT-50 ute) lineups, the new 2.2-litre engine will play a key role in reducing IUA's and Mazda Australia's exposure to emissions-related penalties under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). Given its higher outputs and improved efficiency, it's also likely to be more popular than the 1.9-litre engine, which made its local debut in the D-Max in 2022 before becoming available in the MU-X in 2024. We understand the 1.9-litre engine has attracted fewer than 100 sales annually in the D-Max, which was Australia's third most popular 4×4 ute in 2024 – behind only the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux – with more than 24,000 sales. Above: Thai-market MU-X 2.2. First revealed in November 2024, Isuzu's new 2.2-litre diesel was listed by IUA as one of a range of powertrains options it could employ to lower its fleet-average CO2 emissions. These include the battery-electric D-Max EV, which could top $100,000 based on UK pricing and is therefore expected to be a low-volume vehicle. At the other end of the scale, IUA is working on a hardcore Walkinshaw-developed Blade version of the MU-X, to join the D-Max Blade. Isuzu's new '2.2 Ddi Maxforce' engine (codenamed RZ4F) is based on and replaces the 1.9-litre RZ4E engine, which produces just 110kW of power and 350Nm of torque. Above: Thai-market D-Max 2.2. The new engine develops 120kW at 3600rpm and 400Nm over 1600-2400rpm, and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission (rather than a six-speed unit as per the 1.9- and 3.0-litre diesels), which Isuzu says brings improved performance and fuel economy. That's only 20kW and 50Nm less than the 140kW/450Nm '4J' 3.0-litre diesel that has long powered the D-Max and MU-X, and which will eventually be replaced by the new 2.2. A mild-hybrid (MHEV) version of the 1.9-litre, revealed earlier last year, will remain on sale in Thailand in a single rear-wheel drive pickup variant. This produces an identical 110kW and 350Nm to the regular 1.9-litre. It's unclear at this stage if the 2.2-litre (pictured above) will eventually gain a mild-hybrid system. While Isuzu hasn't published fuel consumption figures, it says fuel economy has been improved by up to 10 per cent over the outgoing 1.9-litre. According to Australian figures, D-Max variants with the 1.9-litre use between 6.7 and 7.0L/100km. The new 2.2-litre stacks up better against the entry-level four-cylinder turbo-diesels in the Ranger and HiLux. The base HiLux Workmate's 2.4-litre engine produces 110kW and 400Nm, while the Ranger's single-turbo 2.0-litre engine makes 125kW and 405Nm, and both of them are matched with a six-speed (rather than eight-speed) auto. MORE: Explore the Isuzu D-Max showroom MORE: Explore the Isuzu MU-X showroom Content originally sourced from:
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Chery Tiggo 7 update bringing power downgrade
The updated petrol-powered Chery Tiggo 7 has been approved for sale in Australia, and it's packing less power than the outgoing version of the mid-size SUV. Following the launch this year of plug-in hybrid Urban and Ultimate 'Super Hybrid' variants, the petrol-only Tiggo 7 range is now getting some attention. Images in government approval documents show refreshed styling that aligns it with the Super Hybrid variants, but the documents also reveal a less powerful engine. "We're not in the position to confirm this model for now," said a spokesperson for Chery Australia when asked when the updated Tiggo 7 will be released here. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Government approval document images Given its appearance in government certification documents, however, it could arrive by the end of this year, following the facelifted Tiggo 7's recent launch in South Africa. Like in that market, it's also almost certain to drop the 'Pro' suffix in Australia. Chery Australia has already made this change with the Tiggo 4 small SUV, which was formerly known as the Tiggo 4 Pro. But Chery's mid-size SUV is also set to move closer to its smaller stablemates in the performance stakes, too. Local approval documents show it will swap its turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – which produces 137kW of power and 275Nm of torque – for a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre producing just 108kW. MORE: South African-market Tiggo 7 These approval documents don't show torque figures. However, Chery's smaller Tiggo 4 and C5 SUVs are powered by a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre engine with outputs of 108kW and 210Nm, as is the South African-market Tiggo 7. It's also being downgraded from a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to a six-speed dual-clutch auto, like in the C5. It's unclear how fuel consumption will be affected. The Tiggo 7 Pro currently consumes a claimed 7.0L/100km, with the C5 using 6.9L/100km. The facelifted Tiggo 7 in South Africa is also offered with a 145kW/290Nm turbo-petrol 1.6-litre engine mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, but this powertrain doesn't appear in local approval documents. The updated Tiggo 7 has an unchanged interior, but the exterior now features a revised front fascia, including a new grille, while down back there are slimmer tail-lights. Like the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE, the updated Tiggo 7 is front-wheel drive-only. The Tiggo 7 Pro was launched here late in 2023 with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, but the latter option was axed when the mid-size SUV was rebranded as the Tiggo 7 Pro SE earlier this year, when its base price was slashed by $7000 to $29,990 drive-away. That made it Australia's most affordable mid-size SUV, though at 4513mm long overall it's actually shorter than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 'small' SUV and features an identical 2670mm wheelbase. Above: Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid Positioned above the Tiggo 7 in the Chery range is the Tiggo 8 Pro, which is marketed as a 'large SUV' but which is sized similarly to the mid-size Mitsubishi Outlander. It's unclear how the revised Tiggo 7 will be positioned. Chery currently offers four different petrol-powered SUVs in Australia. The small Tiggo 4 and C5 open at $23,990 drive-away and $29,990 drive-away respectively, with the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE also opening at $29,990 drive-away. Above: Tiggo 7 Pro SE Above these sit the Tiggo 8 Pro Max from $38,990 drive-away, while hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric versions of these SUVs are also offered in Australia. The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, for example, is available in two variants priced at $39,990 and $43,990 drive-away, respectively. To the end of July, Chery has delivered 2572 Tiggo 7 Pros this year, which is over 1000 more than the Tiggo 8 range but about 500 fewer than the C5/E5 lineup. The Tiggo 7 Pro is outselling the Honda ZR-V – another SUV on the cusp of the small and medium SUV segments in terms of size, of which 2248 examples have been delivered this year. The Chery is also besting the MG HS (2358) and Renault Koleos (588). MORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 7 showroom Content originally sourced from: The updated petrol-powered Chery Tiggo 7 has been approved for sale in Australia, and it's packing less power than the outgoing version of the mid-size SUV. Following the launch this year of plug-in hybrid Urban and Ultimate 'Super Hybrid' variants, the petrol-only Tiggo 7 range is now getting some attention. Images in government approval documents show refreshed styling that aligns it with the Super Hybrid variants, but the documents also reveal a less powerful engine. "We're not in the position to confirm this model for now," said a spokesperson for Chery Australia when asked when the updated Tiggo 7 will be released here. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Government approval document images Given its appearance in government certification documents, however, it could arrive by the end of this year, following the facelifted Tiggo 7's recent launch in South Africa. Like in that market, it's also almost certain to drop the 'Pro' suffix in Australia. Chery Australia has already made this change with the Tiggo 4 small SUV, which was formerly known as the Tiggo 4 Pro. But Chery's mid-size SUV is also set to move closer to its smaller stablemates in the performance stakes, too. Local approval documents show it will swap its turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – which produces 137kW of power and 275Nm of torque – for a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre producing just 108kW. MORE: South African-market Tiggo 7 These approval documents don't show torque figures. However, Chery's smaller Tiggo 4 and C5 SUVs are powered by a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre engine with outputs of 108kW and 210Nm, as is the South African-market Tiggo 7. It's also being downgraded from a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to a six-speed dual-clutch auto, like in the C5. It's unclear how fuel consumption will be affected. The Tiggo 7 Pro currently consumes a claimed 7.0L/100km, with the C5 using 6.9L/100km. The facelifted Tiggo 7 in South Africa is also offered with a 145kW/290Nm turbo-petrol 1.6-litre engine mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, but this powertrain doesn't appear in local approval documents. The updated Tiggo 7 has an unchanged interior, but the exterior now features a revised front fascia, including a new grille, while down back there are slimmer tail-lights. Like the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE, the updated Tiggo 7 is front-wheel drive-only. The Tiggo 7 Pro was launched here late in 2023 with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, but the latter option was axed when the mid-size SUV was rebranded as the Tiggo 7 Pro SE earlier this year, when its base price was slashed by $7000 to $29,990 drive-away. That made it Australia's most affordable mid-size SUV, though at 4513mm long overall it's actually shorter than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 'small' SUV and features an identical 2670mm wheelbase. Above: Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid Positioned above the Tiggo 7 in the Chery range is the Tiggo 8 Pro, which is marketed as a 'large SUV' but which is sized similarly to the mid-size Mitsubishi Outlander. It's unclear how the revised Tiggo 7 will be positioned. Chery currently offers four different petrol-powered SUVs in Australia. The small Tiggo 4 and C5 open at $23,990 drive-away and $29,990 drive-away respectively, with the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE also opening at $29,990 drive-away. Above: Tiggo 7 Pro SE Above these sit the Tiggo 8 Pro Max from $38,990 drive-away, while hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric versions of these SUVs are also offered in Australia. The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, for example, is available in two variants priced at $39,990 and $43,990 drive-away, respectively. To the end of July, Chery has delivered 2572 Tiggo 7 Pros this year, which is over 1000 more than the Tiggo 8 range but about 500 fewer than the C5/E5 lineup. The Tiggo 7 Pro is outselling the Honda ZR-V – another SUV on the cusp of the small and medium SUV segments in terms of size, of which 2248 examples have been delivered this year. The Chery is also besting the MG HS (2358) and Renault Koleos (588). MORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 7 showroom Content originally sourced from: The updated petrol-powered Chery Tiggo 7 has been approved for sale in Australia, and it's packing less power than the outgoing version of the mid-size SUV. Following the launch this year of plug-in hybrid Urban and Ultimate 'Super Hybrid' variants, the petrol-only Tiggo 7 range is now getting some attention. Images in government approval documents show refreshed styling that aligns it with the Super Hybrid variants, but the documents also reveal a less powerful engine. "We're not in the position to confirm this model for now," said a spokesperson for Chery Australia when asked when the updated Tiggo 7 will be released here. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Government approval document images Given its appearance in government certification documents, however, it could arrive by the end of this year, following the facelifted Tiggo 7's recent launch in South Africa. Like in that market, it's also almost certain to drop the 'Pro' suffix in Australia. Chery Australia has already made this change with the Tiggo 4 small SUV, which was formerly known as the Tiggo 4 Pro. But Chery's mid-size SUV is also set to move closer to its smaller stablemates in the performance stakes, too. Local approval documents show it will swap its turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – which produces 137kW of power and 275Nm of torque – for a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre producing just 108kW. MORE: South African-market Tiggo 7 These approval documents don't show torque figures. However, Chery's smaller Tiggo 4 and C5 SUVs are powered by a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre engine with outputs of 108kW and 210Nm, as is the South African-market Tiggo 7. It's also being downgraded from a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to a six-speed dual-clutch auto, like in the C5. It's unclear how fuel consumption will be affected. The Tiggo 7 Pro currently consumes a claimed 7.0L/100km, with the C5 using 6.9L/100km. The facelifted Tiggo 7 in South Africa is also offered with a 145kW/290Nm turbo-petrol 1.6-litre engine mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, but this powertrain doesn't appear in local approval documents. The updated Tiggo 7 has an unchanged interior, but the exterior now features a revised front fascia, including a new grille, while down back there are slimmer tail-lights. Like the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE, the updated Tiggo 7 is front-wheel drive-only. The Tiggo 7 Pro was launched here late in 2023 with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, but the latter option was axed when the mid-size SUV was rebranded as the Tiggo 7 Pro SE earlier this year, when its base price was slashed by $7000 to $29,990 drive-away. That made it Australia's most affordable mid-size SUV, though at 4513mm long overall it's actually shorter than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 'small' SUV and features an identical 2670mm wheelbase. Above: Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid Positioned above the Tiggo 7 in the Chery range is the Tiggo 8 Pro, which is marketed as a 'large SUV' but which is sized similarly to the mid-size Mitsubishi Outlander. It's unclear how the revised Tiggo 7 will be positioned. Chery currently offers four different petrol-powered SUVs in Australia. The small Tiggo 4 and C5 open at $23,990 drive-away and $29,990 drive-away respectively, with the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE also opening at $29,990 drive-away. Above: Tiggo 7 Pro SE Above these sit the Tiggo 8 Pro Max from $38,990 drive-away, while hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric versions of these SUVs are also offered in Australia. The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, for example, is available in two variants priced at $39,990 and $43,990 drive-away, respectively. To the end of July, Chery has delivered 2572 Tiggo 7 Pros this year, which is over 1000 more than the Tiggo 8 range but about 500 fewer than the C5/E5 lineup. The Tiggo 7 Pro is outselling the Honda ZR-V – another SUV on the cusp of the small and medium SUV segments in terms of size, of which 2248 examples have been delivered this year. The Chery is also besting the MG HS (2358) and Renault Koleos (588). MORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 7 showroom Content originally sourced from: The updated petrol-powered Chery Tiggo 7 has been approved for sale in Australia, and it's packing less power than the outgoing version of the mid-size SUV. Following the launch this year of plug-in hybrid Urban and Ultimate 'Super Hybrid' variants, the petrol-only Tiggo 7 range is now getting some attention. Images in government approval documents show refreshed styling that aligns it with the Super Hybrid variants, but the documents also reveal a less powerful engine. "We're not in the position to confirm this model for now," said a spokesperson for Chery Australia when asked when the updated Tiggo 7 will be released here. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. Click here to get a great deal. Above: Government approval document images Given its appearance in government certification documents, however, it could arrive by the end of this year, following the facelifted Tiggo 7's recent launch in South Africa. Like in that market, it's also almost certain to drop the 'Pro' suffix in Australia. Chery Australia has already made this change with the Tiggo 4 small SUV, which was formerly known as the Tiggo 4 Pro. But Chery's mid-size SUV is also set to move closer to its smaller stablemates in the performance stakes, too. Local approval documents show it will swap its turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – which produces 137kW of power and 275Nm of torque – for a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre producing just 108kW. MORE: South African-market Tiggo 7 These approval documents don't show torque figures. However, Chery's smaller Tiggo 4 and C5 SUVs are powered by a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre engine with outputs of 108kW and 210Nm, as is the South African-market Tiggo 7. It's also being downgraded from a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to a six-speed dual-clutch auto, like in the C5. It's unclear how fuel consumption will be affected. The Tiggo 7 Pro currently consumes a claimed 7.0L/100km, with the C5 using 6.9L/100km. The facelifted Tiggo 7 in South Africa is also offered with a 145kW/290Nm turbo-petrol 1.6-litre engine mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, but this powertrain doesn't appear in local approval documents. The updated Tiggo 7 has an unchanged interior, but the exterior now features a revised front fascia, including a new grille, while down back there are slimmer tail-lights. Like the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE, the updated Tiggo 7 is front-wheel drive-only. The Tiggo 7 Pro was launched here late in 2023 with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, but the latter option was axed when the mid-size SUV was rebranded as the Tiggo 7 Pro SE earlier this year, when its base price was slashed by $7000 to $29,990 drive-away. That made it Australia's most affordable mid-size SUV, though at 4513mm long overall it's actually shorter than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 'small' SUV and features an identical 2670mm wheelbase. Above: Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid Positioned above the Tiggo 7 in the Chery range is the Tiggo 8 Pro, which is marketed as a 'large SUV' but which is sized similarly to the mid-size Mitsubishi Outlander. It's unclear how the revised Tiggo 7 will be positioned. Chery currently offers four different petrol-powered SUVs in Australia. The small Tiggo 4 and C5 open at $23,990 drive-away and $29,990 drive-away respectively, with the outgoing Tiggo 7 Pro SE also opening at $29,990 drive-away. Above: Tiggo 7 Pro SE Above these sit the Tiggo 8 Pro Max from $38,990 drive-away, while hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric versions of these SUVs are also offered in Australia. The Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, for example, is available in two variants priced at $39,990 and $43,990 drive-away, respectively. To the end of July, Chery has delivered 2572 Tiggo 7 Pros this year, which is over 1000 more than the Tiggo 8 range but about 500 fewer than the C5/E5 lineup. The Tiggo 7 Pro is outselling the Honda ZR-V – another SUV on the cusp of the small and medium SUV segments in terms of size, of which 2248 examples have been delivered this year. The Chery is also besting the MG HS (2358) and Renault Koleos (588). MORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 7 showroom Content originally sourced from:
