Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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They also have a front axle load rating of 1900kg and a rear axle load rating of 2800kg – compared to a best of 1450kg front and 1959kg rear on other model grades including the Ranger XLT dual-cab. Ford says it has upgraded the cooling system for the Super Duty to improve performance and reliability with its increased towing as well as its higher 4500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) and 8000kg gross combined mass (GCM). The size increase also gives the Super Duty 50mm higher water fording capability, with all three trim levels announced so far boasting a 850mm wading limit. MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger showroom Content originally sourced from: We've all gotten a ute dirty before, but have you ever packed on 600kg of mud? That's what Ford has done in torture-testing the tougher Super Duty version of its top-selling Ranger, with the goal to pack on as much mud as possible. Why? To test how the Ford Ranger Super Duty performs once hundreds of kilograms of wet dirt and clay has found its way into every nook and cranny. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Ford Ranger. Click here to get a great deal. "Mud is one of a truck's greatest enemies," said Rob Hugo, product excellence and human factors supervisor at Ford Australia. "It can add significant weight, prevent airflow, and act as an insulator, causing components to heat up much quicker. It's highly corrosive and can clog up fans and alternators, preventing them from running correctly." Ford used a specially designed track at its You Yangs Proving Ground in Victoria, a "purpose-built mud hell" with deep ruts, bog holes, and long, open sections of thick, sticky clay. It then sent the Ranger Super Duty through it day after day, allowing the mud to build up each time instead of hosing it off. Ford weighed the prototype vehicle before and after testing to confirm just how much mud it packed on. 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The Super Duty lineup will use the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine already offered in other model grades, making 154kW of power at 3250rpm and 600Nm of torque at 1750rpm – the same torque figure, but down 30kW in power. Ford announced pricing in June for the Single Cab-Chassis, Super Cab-Chassis and Double Cab-Chassis body styles, which will be the first Super Duty models on sale. The company has confirmed the Ranger Super Duty Pickup and XLT Super Duty will follow, joining the initial cab/chassis models in Ford Australia showrooms in late 2026. The cab/chassis pricing doesn't include a tray, with Ford offering three different types: a galvanised steel tray, body colour steel tray or a matte black steel tray. Depending on the tray type and variant, you're looking at an extra $5966 to $9376 including fitment. That brings the Super Duty Double Cab-Chassis price to $98,156 before on-road costs with the most expensive tray added. It comes with 295mm ground clearance and a payload of up to 1825kg. All three Super Duty variants have a 1710mm track width – matching that of the Ranger Raptor, which is 90mm wider than the rest of the Ranger lineup – and a braked towing capacity of 4500kg. They also have a front axle load rating of 1900kg and a rear axle load rating of 2800kg – compared to a best of 1450kg front and 1959kg rear on other model grades including the Ranger XLT dual-cab. Ford says it has upgraded the cooling system for the Super Duty to improve performance and reliability with its increased towing as well as its higher 4500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) and 8000kg gross combined mass (GCM). The size increase also gives the Super Duty 50mm higher water fording capability, with all three trim levels announced so far boasting a 850mm wading limit. MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger showroom Content originally sourced from: We've all gotten a ute dirty before, but have you ever packed on 600kg of mud? That's what Ford has done in torture-testing the tougher Super Duty version of its top-selling Ranger, with the goal to pack on as much mud as possible. Why? To test how the Ford Ranger Super Duty performs once hundreds of kilograms of wet dirt and clay has found its way into every nook and cranny. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Ford Ranger. Click here to get a great deal. "Mud is one of a truck's greatest enemies," said Rob Hugo, product excellence and human factors supervisor at Ford Australia. "It can add significant weight, prevent airflow, and act as an insulator, causing components to heat up much quicker. It's highly corrosive and can clog up fans and alternators, preventing them from running correctly." Ford used a specially designed track at its You Yangs Proving Ground in Victoria, a "purpose-built mud hell" with deep ruts, bog holes, and long, open sections of thick, sticky clay. It then sent the Ranger Super Duty through it day after day, allowing the mud to build up each time instead of hosing it off. Ford weighed the prototype vehicle before and after testing to confirm just how much mud it packed on. The end result? More than 600kg of packed-on mud or, as Ford notes, the equivalent of a full-grown Brahman steer. Engineers then continued to drive the vehicle to see how it coped with having mud smothering key components. "Our mud-pack testing is a key part of our 'Built Ford Tough' validation," said Mr Hugo. "So, for the Ranger Super Duty, we knew we had to turn it up to 11. We packed more mud onto this vehicle during development than we ever have before." Ford says this test simulated the type of extreme conditions a customer might face, for example on a remote mine site or during recreational off-roading. The Ranger Super Duty will be priced from $82,990 before on-road costs – before a tray is fitted – when it goes on sale in local showrooms in early 2026. It offers the highest towing and payload capabilities of any Ranger offered to date and gives Ford a uniquely capable option against key rivals including the Toyota HiLux and newcomers like the Kia Tasman and BYD Shark 6. The Super Duty lineup will use the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine already offered in other model grades, making 154kW of power at 3250rpm and 600Nm of torque at 1750rpm – the same torque figure, but down 30kW in power. Ford announced pricing in June for the Single Cab-Chassis, Super Cab-Chassis and Double Cab-Chassis body styles, which will be the first Super Duty models on sale. The company has confirmed the Ranger Super Duty Pickup and XLT Super Duty will follow, joining the initial cab/chassis models in Ford Australia showrooms in late 2026. The cab/chassis pricing doesn't include a tray, with Ford offering three different types: a galvanised steel tray, body colour steel tray or a matte black steel tray. Depending on the tray type and variant, you're looking at an extra $5966 to $9376 including fitment. That brings the Super Duty Double Cab-Chassis price to $98,156 before on-road costs with the most expensive tray added. It comes with 295mm ground clearance and a payload of up to 1825kg. All three Super Duty variants have a 1710mm track width – matching that of the Ranger Raptor, which is 90mm wider than the rest of the Ranger lineup – and a braked towing capacity of 4500kg. They also have a front axle load rating of 1900kg and a rear axle load rating of 2800kg – compared to a best of 1450kg front and 1959kg rear on other model grades including the Ranger XLT dual-cab. Ford says it has upgraded the cooling system for the Super Duty to improve performance and reliability with its increased towing as well as its higher 4500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) and 8000kg gross combined mass (GCM). The size increase also gives the Super Duty 50mm higher water fording capability, with all three trim levels announced so far boasting a 850mm wading limit. MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger showroom Content originally sourced from:
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Porsche Macan: Petrol successor to launch by 2028, possibly with a new name
With production of the first-generation Porsche Macan set to finish up in 2026, the German luxury/performance car brand will be without a petrol-powered version of its best-selling model globally. Porsche has already stopped making petrol Macans for Europe and Australia, but they remain on sale – for now – in North America and elsewhere. Launched in 2024, the second-generation Macan (pictured below) is an electric-only model. Unfortunately for Porsche and many other automakers, EV demand hasn't matched their expectations – especially in the US – which has necessitated a rethink about their EV plans. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. In a recent call with investors, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume confirmed the automaker will "hedge" its EV strategy by "developing a compact SUV with both ICE and hybrid versions" to complement the Macan EV. He said the company is "speeding up the process there with very short development times", and expected the new mid-size SUV to be launched into major markets "no later than 2028". The tight development timeline suggests the petrol Macan replacement will be based on the Volkswagen Group's Platform Premium Combustion (PPC), an evolution and replacement for the MLB architecture that underpinned the original Macan. Earlier rumours indicated Porsche might re-engineer the second-generation Macan's EV platform to accept a petrol engine. Like the first Macan, the new SUV will likely share a lot in common with the third-generation Audi Q5, production of which began late last year. Naturally, with the petrol Macan replacement just receiving the green light, Mr Blume didn't give too much away about the vehicle, but he said it would be "very, very typical Porsche for this segment and also differentiated from the BEV Macan", leading some to speculate the new SUV will have a different name. We can glean some clues about the new SUV's powertrains from the latest Q5, which is available with a choice of 48V mild-hybrid petrol and diesel drivetrains, as well as a selection of plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Porsche has foresworn diesel engines, so that leaves behind the base Q5 TFSI with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, and the SQ5 with a 3.0-litre turbo V6. The Q5 2.0 TFSI makes 150kW of power and 340Nm of torque, has a seven-speed automatic transmission, and is available in both front- and all-wheel drive. The former requires 8.6 seconds to complete the 0-100km/h dash, while the latter needs just 7.4 seconds (claimed). As for the SQ5, it has 270kW and 550Nm at its disposal, a standard seven-speed auto paired with all-wheel drive, and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.5 seconds. The Q5 e-hybrid is available in both 220kW/450Nm and 270kW/500Nm specs. For the more powerful variant, the official 0-100km/h time is 5.1 seconds. Both have an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with a 105kW electric motor built into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The electric motor is fed by a 25.9kWh battery offering up to 100km of EV range under WLTP testing, and which supports AC charging up to 11kW, but not DC fast-charging. With the fast-approaching launch date, Porsche's new SUV may well use the Q5's drivetrains as is, or spruce them up a bit with pinch of horsepower here and a dash of torque there. MORE: Explore the Porsche Macan showroom Content originally sourced from: With production of the first-generation Porsche Macan set to finish up in 2026, the German luxury/performance car brand will be without a petrol-powered version of its best-selling model globally. Porsche has already stopped making petrol Macans for Europe and Australia, but they remain on sale – for now – in North America and elsewhere. Launched in 2024, the second-generation Macan (pictured below) is an electric-only model. Unfortunately for Porsche and many other automakers, EV demand hasn't matched their expectations – especially in the US – which has necessitated a rethink about their EV plans. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. In a recent call with investors, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume confirmed the automaker will "hedge" its EV strategy by "developing a compact SUV with both ICE and hybrid versions" to complement the Macan EV. He said the company is "speeding up the process there with very short development times", and expected the new mid-size SUV to be launched into major markets "no later than 2028". The tight development timeline suggests the petrol Macan replacement will be based on the Volkswagen Group's Platform Premium Combustion (PPC), an evolution and replacement for the MLB architecture that underpinned the original Macan. Earlier rumours indicated Porsche might re-engineer the second-generation Macan's EV platform to accept a petrol engine. Like the first Macan, the new SUV will likely share a lot in common with the third-generation Audi Q5, production of which began late last year. Naturally, with the petrol Macan replacement just receiving the green light, Mr Blume didn't give too much away about the vehicle, but he said it would be "very, very typical Porsche for this segment and also differentiated from the BEV Macan", leading some to speculate the new SUV will have a different name. We can glean some clues about the new SUV's powertrains from the latest Q5, which is available with a choice of 48V mild-hybrid petrol and diesel drivetrains, as well as a selection of plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Porsche has foresworn diesel engines, so that leaves behind the base Q5 TFSI with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, and the SQ5 with a 3.0-litre turbo V6. The Q5 2.0 TFSI makes 150kW of power and 340Nm of torque, has a seven-speed automatic transmission, and is available in both front- and all-wheel drive. The former requires 8.6 seconds to complete the 0-100km/h dash, while the latter needs just 7.4 seconds (claimed). As for the SQ5, it has 270kW and 550Nm at its disposal, a standard seven-speed auto paired with all-wheel drive, and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.5 seconds. The Q5 e-hybrid is available in both 220kW/450Nm and 270kW/500Nm specs. For the more powerful variant, the official 0-100km/h time is 5.1 seconds. Both have an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with a 105kW electric motor built into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The electric motor is fed by a 25.9kWh battery offering up to 100km of EV range under WLTP testing, and which supports AC charging up to 11kW, but not DC fast-charging. With the fast-approaching launch date, Porsche's new SUV may well use the Q5's drivetrains as is, or spruce them up a bit with pinch of horsepower here and a dash of torque there. MORE: Explore the Porsche Macan showroom Content originally sourced from: With production of the first-generation Porsche Macan set to finish up in 2026, the German luxury/performance car brand will be without a petrol-powered version of its best-selling model globally. Porsche has already stopped making petrol Macans for Europe and Australia, but they remain on sale – for now – in North America and elsewhere. Launched in 2024, the second-generation Macan (pictured below) is an electric-only model. Unfortunately for Porsche and many other automakers, EV demand hasn't matched their expectations – especially in the US – which has necessitated a rethink about their EV plans. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. In a recent call with investors, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume confirmed the automaker will "hedge" its EV strategy by "developing a compact SUV with both ICE and hybrid versions" to complement the Macan EV. He said the company is "speeding up the process there with very short development times", and expected the new mid-size SUV to be launched into major markets "no later than 2028". The tight development timeline suggests the petrol Macan replacement will be based on the Volkswagen Group's Platform Premium Combustion (PPC), an evolution and replacement for the MLB architecture that underpinned the original Macan. Earlier rumours indicated Porsche might re-engineer the second-generation Macan's EV platform to accept a petrol engine. Like the first Macan, the new SUV will likely share a lot in common with the third-generation Audi Q5, production of which began late last year. Naturally, with the petrol Macan replacement just receiving the green light, Mr Blume didn't give too much away about the vehicle, but he said it would be "very, very typical Porsche for this segment and also differentiated from the BEV Macan", leading some to speculate the new SUV will have a different name. We can glean some clues about the new SUV's powertrains from the latest Q5, which is available with a choice of 48V mild-hybrid petrol and diesel drivetrains, as well as a selection of plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Porsche has foresworn diesel engines, so that leaves behind the base Q5 TFSI with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, and the SQ5 with a 3.0-litre turbo V6. The Q5 2.0 TFSI makes 150kW of power and 340Nm of torque, has a seven-speed automatic transmission, and is available in both front- and all-wheel drive. The former requires 8.6 seconds to complete the 0-100km/h dash, while the latter needs just 7.4 seconds (claimed). As for the SQ5, it has 270kW and 550Nm at its disposal, a standard seven-speed auto paired with all-wheel drive, and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.5 seconds. The Q5 e-hybrid is available in both 220kW/450Nm and 270kW/500Nm specs. For the more powerful variant, the official 0-100km/h time is 5.1 seconds. Both have an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with a 105kW electric motor built into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The electric motor is fed by a 25.9kWh battery offering up to 100km of EV range under WLTP testing, and which supports AC charging up to 11kW, but not DC fast-charging. With the fast-approaching launch date, Porsche's new SUV may well use the Q5's drivetrains as is, or spruce them up a bit with pinch of horsepower here and a dash of torque there. MORE: Explore the Porsche Macan showroom Content originally sourced from: With production of the first-generation Porsche Macan set to finish up in 2026, the German luxury/performance car brand will be without a petrol-powered version of its best-selling model globally. Porsche has already stopped making petrol Macans for Europe and Australia, but they remain on sale – for now – in North America and elsewhere. Launched in 2024, the second-generation Macan (pictured below) is an electric-only model. Unfortunately for Porsche and many other automakers, EV demand hasn't matched their expectations – especially in the US – which has necessitated a rethink about their EV plans. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. In a recent call with investors, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume confirmed the automaker will "hedge" its EV strategy by "developing a compact SUV with both ICE and hybrid versions" to complement the Macan EV. He said the company is "speeding up the process there with very short development times", and expected the new mid-size SUV to be launched into major markets "no later than 2028". The tight development timeline suggests the petrol Macan replacement will be based on the Volkswagen Group's Platform Premium Combustion (PPC), an evolution and replacement for the MLB architecture that underpinned the original Macan. Earlier rumours indicated Porsche might re-engineer the second-generation Macan's EV platform to accept a petrol engine. Like the first Macan, the new SUV will likely share a lot in common with the third-generation Audi Q5, production of which began late last year. Naturally, with the petrol Macan replacement just receiving the green light, Mr Blume didn't give too much away about the vehicle, but he said it would be "very, very typical Porsche for this segment and also differentiated from the BEV Macan", leading some to speculate the new SUV will have a different name. We can glean some clues about the new SUV's powertrains from the latest Q5, which is available with a choice of 48V mild-hybrid petrol and diesel drivetrains, as well as a selection of plug-in hybrid drivetrains. Porsche has foresworn diesel engines, so that leaves behind the base Q5 TFSI with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, and the SQ5 with a 3.0-litre turbo V6. The Q5 2.0 TFSI makes 150kW of power and 340Nm of torque, has a seven-speed automatic transmission, and is available in both front- and all-wheel drive. The former requires 8.6 seconds to complete the 0-100km/h dash, while the latter needs just 7.4 seconds (claimed). As for the SQ5, it has 270kW and 550Nm at its disposal, a standard seven-speed auto paired with all-wheel drive, and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.5 seconds. The Q5 e-hybrid is available in both 220kW/450Nm and 270kW/500Nm specs. For the more powerful variant, the official 0-100km/h time is 5.1 seconds. Both have an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with a 105kW electric motor built into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The electric motor is fed by a 25.9kWh battery offering up to 100km of EV range under WLTP testing, and which supports AC charging up to 11kW, but not DC fast-charging. With the fast-approaching launch date, Porsche's new SUV may well use the Q5's drivetrains as is, or spruce them up a bit with pinch of horsepower here and a dash of torque there. MORE: Explore the Porsche Macan showroom Content originally sourced from:
