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The Advertiser
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Why the Hyundai Santa Fe is a CarExpert Choice winner
The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from: The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from: The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from: The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Why the Ford Ranger is a CarExpert Choice winner
Australia has one of the world's biggest ute markets and Aussie ute buyers are among the most discerning globally, whether they're tradies who require a reliable workhorse, outback adventurers who need a capable trek truck, or families who want utility, practicality and versatility all in the one vehicle. So it's perhaps no surprise that the latest generation Ford Ranger, which improved almost every attribute of its already class-leading predecessor, is the nation's top-selling new vehicle. A true Aussie success story, this country's only locally developed ute is sold in more than 180 markets including Australia, where it's available in every conceivable guise from the entry-level rear-wheel drive Ranger XL single-cab/chassis to the range-topping, desert-crushing Ranger Raptor dual-cab 4×4 pickup that has no rival. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Annual tech updates and the routine addition of new variants including the Platinum luxury flagship, the tough Tremor off-road specialist, and no fewer than four grades of the new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) have kept the Ranger relevant and fresh in the face of new rivals. And whether it's powered by one of two four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo-diesels, a lusty 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, or the ferocious 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 in the Raptor, the Ranger has its competitors licked, thanks to class-leading safety, technology, performance, capability, refinement and ride/handling offered by each variant. That's why we gave it the title of Best Ute in our inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice awards. "There are plenty of utes that can offer 3500kg braked towing capacity, or a long list of standard safety equipment, or a torquey turbo-diesel engine," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The Ford Ranger, however, meets all the essential criteria of a ute in 2025 while also besting its rivals in driving dynamics and in-car tech. It's a ute that works well as a ute, but is also capable as a family vehicle. Not to mention that turbo-diesel V6 is a gem, and the Raptor is a hoot." "The Ford Ranger has been designed and developed by Australians, for Australians," said marketplace editor James Wong. "That's very evident in its confident and capable all-round performance, which blurs the lines between commercial workhorse and family passenger vehicle. It's still the best in segment." "Ranger is the category benchmark – by some margin – because of the way it drives, its capabilities on- and off-road, its rugged looks, its smart cabin design, its solid resale values, and its wide choice of model grades, each backed by a five-star ANCAP rating," said deputy news editor Damion Smy. "Despite the emergence of competitive new players in the ute market, Ford's Ranger remains the segment benchmark," said deputy marketplace editor Josh Nevett. "It's a sophisticated workhorse both on- and off-road, with all the requisite capability and features that Australian buyers expect. There's something for everyone across the model range, from the rough-and-ready XL right up to the versatile PHEV and go-fast Raptor." "Ford's Ranger is undeniably the ute benchmark, thanks to its upmarket interior, punchy engines and a chassis tune designed in Australia to tackle the worst of Australian conditions," said CarExpert journalist Max Davies. "It's now more versatile than ever too. With three diesel engines, a potent petrol V6 and an efficient PHEV, there's something for everyone." MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger Content originally sourced from: Australia has one of the world's biggest ute markets and Aussie ute buyers are among the most discerning globally, whether they're tradies who require a reliable workhorse, outback adventurers who need a capable trek truck, or families who want utility, practicality and versatility all in the one vehicle. So it's perhaps no surprise that the latest generation Ford Ranger, which improved almost every attribute of its already class-leading predecessor, is the nation's top-selling new vehicle. A true Aussie success story, this country's only locally developed ute is sold in more than 180 markets including Australia, where it's available in every conceivable guise from the entry-level rear-wheel drive Ranger XL single-cab/chassis to the range-topping, desert-crushing Ranger Raptor dual-cab 4×4 pickup that has no rival. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Annual tech updates and the routine addition of new variants including the Platinum luxury flagship, the tough Tremor off-road specialist, and no fewer than four grades of the new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) have kept the Ranger relevant and fresh in the face of new rivals. And whether it's powered by one of two four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo-diesels, a lusty 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, or the ferocious 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 in the Raptor, the Ranger has its competitors licked, thanks to class-leading safety, technology, performance, capability, refinement and ride/handling offered by each variant. That's why we gave it the title of Best Ute in our inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice awards. "There are plenty of utes that can offer 3500kg braked towing capacity, or a long list of standard safety equipment, or a torquey turbo-diesel engine," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The Ford Ranger, however, meets all the essential criteria of a ute in 2025 while also besting its rivals in driving dynamics and in-car tech. It's a ute that works well as a ute, but is also capable as a family vehicle. Not to mention that turbo-diesel V6 is a gem, and the Raptor is a hoot." "The Ford Ranger has been designed and developed by Australians, for Australians," said marketplace editor James Wong. "That's very evident in its confident and capable all-round performance, which blurs the lines between commercial workhorse and family passenger vehicle. It's still the best in segment." "Ranger is the category benchmark – by some margin – because of the way it drives, its capabilities on- and off-road, its rugged looks, its smart cabin design, its solid resale values, and its wide choice of model grades, each backed by a five-star ANCAP rating," said deputy news editor Damion Smy. "Despite the emergence of competitive new players in the ute market, Ford's Ranger remains the segment benchmark," said deputy marketplace editor Josh Nevett. "It's a sophisticated workhorse both on- and off-road, with all the requisite capability and features that Australian buyers expect. There's something for everyone across the model range, from the rough-and-ready XL right up to the versatile PHEV and go-fast Raptor." "Ford's Ranger is undeniably the ute benchmark, thanks to its upmarket interior, punchy engines and a chassis tune designed in Australia to tackle the worst of Australian conditions," said CarExpert journalist Max Davies. "It's now more versatile than ever too. With three diesel engines, a potent petrol V6 and an efficient PHEV, there's something for everyone." MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger Content originally sourced from: Australia has one of the world's biggest ute markets and Aussie ute buyers are among the most discerning globally, whether they're tradies who require a reliable workhorse, outback adventurers who need a capable trek truck, or families who want utility, practicality and versatility all in the one vehicle. So it's perhaps no surprise that the latest generation Ford Ranger, which improved almost every attribute of its already class-leading predecessor, is the nation's top-selling new vehicle. A true Aussie success story, this country's only locally developed ute is sold in more than 180 markets including Australia, where it's available in every conceivable guise from the entry-level rear-wheel drive Ranger XL single-cab/chassis to the range-topping, desert-crushing Ranger Raptor dual-cab 4×4 pickup that has no rival. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Annual tech updates and the routine addition of new variants including the Platinum luxury flagship, the tough Tremor off-road specialist, and no fewer than four grades of the new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) have kept the Ranger relevant and fresh in the face of new rivals. And whether it's powered by one of two four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo-diesels, a lusty 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, or the ferocious 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 in the Raptor, the Ranger has its competitors licked, thanks to class-leading safety, technology, performance, capability, refinement and ride/handling offered by each variant. That's why we gave it the title of Best Ute in our inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice awards. "There are plenty of utes that can offer 3500kg braked towing capacity, or a long list of standard safety equipment, or a torquey turbo-diesel engine," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The Ford Ranger, however, meets all the essential criteria of a ute in 2025 while also besting its rivals in driving dynamics and in-car tech. It's a ute that works well as a ute, but is also capable as a family vehicle. Not to mention that turbo-diesel V6 is a gem, and the Raptor is a hoot." "The Ford Ranger has been designed and developed by Australians, for Australians," said marketplace editor James Wong. "That's very evident in its confident and capable all-round performance, which blurs the lines between commercial workhorse and family passenger vehicle. It's still the best in segment." "Ranger is the category benchmark – by some margin – because of the way it drives, its capabilities on- and off-road, its rugged looks, its smart cabin design, its solid resale values, and its wide choice of model grades, each backed by a five-star ANCAP rating," said deputy news editor Damion Smy. "Despite the emergence of competitive new players in the ute market, Ford's Ranger remains the segment benchmark," said deputy marketplace editor Josh Nevett. "It's a sophisticated workhorse both on- and off-road, with all the requisite capability and features that Australian buyers expect. There's something for everyone across the model range, from the rough-and-ready XL right up to the versatile PHEV and go-fast Raptor." "Ford's Ranger is undeniably the ute benchmark, thanks to its upmarket interior, punchy engines and a chassis tune designed in Australia to tackle the worst of Australian conditions," said CarExpert journalist Max Davies. "It's now more versatile than ever too. With three diesel engines, a potent petrol V6 and an efficient PHEV, there's something for everyone." MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger Content originally sourced from: Australia has one of the world's biggest ute markets and Aussie ute buyers are among the most discerning globally, whether they're tradies who require a reliable workhorse, outback adventurers who need a capable trek truck, or families who want utility, practicality and versatility all in the one vehicle. So it's perhaps no surprise that the latest generation Ford Ranger, which improved almost every attribute of its already class-leading predecessor, is the nation's top-selling new vehicle. A true Aussie success story, this country's only locally developed ute is sold in more than 180 markets including Australia, where it's available in every conceivable guise from the entry-level rear-wheel drive Ranger XL single-cab/chassis to the range-topping, desert-crushing Ranger Raptor dual-cab 4×4 pickup that has no rival. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Annual tech updates and the routine addition of new variants including the Platinum luxury flagship, the tough Tremor off-road specialist, and no fewer than four grades of the new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) have kept the Ranger relevant and fresh in the face of new rivals. And whether it's powered by one of two four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo-diesels, a lusty 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, or the ferocious 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 in the Raptor, the Ranger has its competitors licked, thanks to class-leading safety, technology, performance, capability, refinement and ride/handling offered by each variant. That's why we gave it the title of Best Ute in our inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice awards. "There are plenty of utes that can offer 3500kg braked towing capacity, or a long list of standard safety equipment, or a torquey turbo-diesel engine," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The Ford Ranger, however, meets all the essential criteria of a ute in 2025 while also besting its rivals in driving dynamics and in-car tech. It's a ute that works well as a ute, but is also capable as a family vehicle. Not to mention that turbo-diesel V6 is a gem, and the Raptor is a hoot." "The Ford Ranger has been designed and developed by Australians, for Australians," said marketplace editor James Wong. "That's very evident in its confident and capable all-round performance, which blurs the lines between commercial workhorse and family passenger vehicle. It's still the best in segment." "Ranger is the category benchmark – by some margin – because of the way it drives, its capabilities on- and off-road, its rugged looks, its smart cabin design, its solid resale values, and its wide choice of model grades, each backed by a five-star ANCAP rating," said deputy news editor Damion Smy. "Despite the emergence of competitive new players in the ute market, Ford's Ranger remains the segment benchmark," said deputy marketplace editor Josh Nevett. "It's a sophisticated workhorse both on- and off-road, with all the requisite capability and features that Australian buyers expect. There's something for everyone across the model range, from the rough-and-ready XL right up to the versatile PHEV and go-fast Raptor." "Ford's Ranger is undeniably the ute benchmark, thanks to its upmarket interior, punchy engines and a chassis tune designed in Australia to tackle the worst of Australian conditions," said CarExpert journalist Max Davies. "It's now more versatile than ever too. With three diesel engines, a potent petrol V6 and an efficient PHEV, there's something for everyone." MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger Content originally sourced from:
Perth Now
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Mazda MX-5 recalled due to ESC warning light issue
Supplied Credit: CarExpert William Stopford CarExpert Mazda is recalling its current-generation MX-5 due to an issue that may prevent warning lights from appearing. 'Due to a software programming issue, the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) module may fail to illuminate the visual warning lights,' the company says in its recall notice. 'There is no safety hazard associated with this recall and the defect will not affect the performance of the vehicle.' Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert A total of 966 vehicles are affected from 2023 to 2025 The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) list is attached here The original recall notice is attached here If you own an affected vehicle, you'll need to schedule an appointment with a Mazda Australia dealership to have the free fix carried out. If you have any further questions, you can contact Mazda Australia on 1800 034 411. MORE: Everything Mazda MX-5
7NEWS
24-05-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
Which electrified pick-up would you buy?
Utes and pick-up trucks form one of the most popular new vehicle segments in Australia, and it's also one of the busiest in terms of new models and technology development. We've seen numerous new utes out of China in particular, and a lot of them are pushing the boundaries in terms of cabin refinement and tech. Plenty of hybrid and EV utes have already started arriving too, and more are on the horizon. With that in mind, we've asked the CarExpert team which electrified ute they would buy if they were in the market. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. To make things interesting, we've thrown it open to all utes with any form of electric assistance, which makes everything from mild-hybrids to fully electric utes eligible for selection. Some of these aren't yet on sale in Australia, so the team was also invited to speculate on models they think will be winners. Options include: BYD Shark 6 Ford Ranger PHEV GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV JAC Hunter PHEV LDV eT60 LDV eTerron 9 Toyota HiLux 48V Toyota Tundra Marton Pettendy: Ford Ranger PHEV Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) utes make a lot of sense in a country like Australia because they offer EV-dwarfing range to haul people and their cargo over long distances between fuel stops, and diesel-beating torque that makes them ideal for towing, off-roading and general driving duties of all types. The Ranger PHEV may have a higher price, a smaller battery and therefore a shorter electric-only range than the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, but it also has the biggest engine with the most torque, the highest payload, and a 3500kg towing capacity to match its diesel siblings and the GWM. Available in four variants to suit a wider range of buyers, it will also have the backing of 180 dealers nationwide, the engineering expertise of a 122-year-old automaker, and the unrivalled combination of design, technology, refinement, performance and capability that attracted more Aussies than any other new vehicle last year. Interested in buying a Ford Ranger? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers here William Stopford: Undecided The electric ute segment is essentially non-existent in Australia right now, with just the lame LDV eT60. I'm excited to drive the new LDV eTerron 9, however. Then there are the hybrids. The Tundra looks great, but it's not exactly a Prius when it comes to efficiency and I wouldn't pick one over the other American pickups for the price Toyota is asking. The much cheaper GWM Cannon Alpha has a plush interior, but its ride quality is average at best. The real centre of activity is the plug-in hybrid ute segment, and of the three either here now or coming within the next few months, I've driven just one: the BYD Shark 6. Its interior puts most utes to shame, with slick tech, an attractive design and nice materials. The powertrain is also smooth and refined, with seamless shifts between petrol and electric power. But it still rides like a ute – a decent one, but a ute nonetheless – so don't expect it to feel quite like an SUV as some have. If you're buying a ute, though, don't you want maximum capability? For example, the 3500kg braked towing capacity and off-road capability of the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV? But I come back to that point about unladen ride quality – no matter how much you use your ute, I doubt you always have something in the tray. These are often used as family vehicles, and they need to be comfy. The regular Cannon Alpha isn't exactly smooth, so I wonder how it fares with a big, heavy battery. The regular Ranger is the ride quality benchmark in its segment, but we haven't driven one yet and these Chinese rivals significantly undercut it on price. One of these three would likely be my pick, but I'll need to drive them all to make up my mind. James Wong: GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV Having not yet driven the Ford, the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV – based on our drive of a pre-production prototype – is the best example yet of how to maintain a dual-cab's desired capability with an electrified drivetrain. With a huge battery offering heaps of EV range, the Alpha PHEV can realistically be driven as an EV for over 100 kilometres for regular commuting, while also offering 3.5t towing and a proper mechanical 4WD system to do typical 'ute stuff'. Even better, the GWM's cabin is luxe and its PHEV system puts out plenty of power and torque to get this 2.8-tonne beast moving with surprising gusto. It'll be interesting to see if my mind changes as more options arrive in Australia over the coming months. Interested in buying a GWM Cannon Alpha? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers here Damion Smy: Ford Ranger PHEV This isn't a tough decision at all for me. Which of these has a stellar reputation – the kind of image and success greater than the brand it's from, even enough to hold up that entire company for some years now? Which has off-road credentials, safety tech, predictable servicing costs and a proper dealer network? And which is a handsome, rugged yet practical ute – the PHEV seeing it lead its segment rival and the only other vehicle on this list I'd seriously consider, the Toyota HiLux. Like the Toyota, it's also less of a risk when it comes time to move it on, too, given it promises best-in-class dynamics with the 3500kg holy grail towing rating. Plug me into a Ford Ranger PHEV. Interested in buying a Ford Ranger? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers here Josh Nevett: GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV I've been a staunch advocate for the BYD Shark 6 since it arrived in Australia, but over time it's become abundantly clear that the lifestyle-oriented marine predator doesn't do ute things as well as rivals. And it's not only old-school internal combustion engine (ICE) utes that have the wood over the Shark 6, as the new GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV represents a compelling alternative in the electrified space. With a bigger battery, more torque, better towing capacity and superior EV range, the Cannon Alpha Plug-in Hybrid brings more capability on-road and offers a proper four-wheel drive system with front, rear and centre locking differentials for when the tarmac disappears. The Cannon Alpha PHEV effectively blends traditional workhorse traits with the flexibility of plug-in hybrid power, and it's not even that expensive – pricing starts from as little as $61,490 drive-away for the base Lux, while the flagship Ultra comes in at $67,990 drive-away. Buy either for a modern, well-rounded ute experience. Interested in buying a GWM Cannon Alpha? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers here Max Davies: Undecided I'm aware that saying I haven't decided seems like a cop-out, but there's actually a lot I want to consider before choosing one of these cars. To get it out of the way, I wouldn't go for a fully electric ute, because I don't think it makes a lot of sense in Australia. The mild-hybrid and hybrid Toyotas are old and expensive respectively, so they're off the cards for the time being too. I was a little underwhelmed by the JAC T9 diesel and therefore maintain a conservative mindset regarding the incoming Hunter PHEV. That leaves the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, and Ford Ranger PHEV. After having driven the Shark for a week earlier this year (review coming soon), I was impressed by its on-road composure and general upmarket presentation. It also presents well and has a mostly competent suite of driver assist tech, but its off-road shortcomings make it difficult to pin to the top of my wishlist. By default, that gives the Cannon Alpha an edge with its standard inclusion of low-range gearing and locking differentials. It may still suffer from similar driver assist inconsistencies seen on other GWM products, which is why I'm cautiously confident about its success. Then there's the Ford Ranger PHEV, which has a lot to live up to. The Ranger is still the segment benchmark with diesel power, so Ford at least has a strong foundation to build upon when implementing PHEV tech. It starts to look less appealing when you consider the price, and then the fact that its claimed EV-only range is half that of the BYD and GWM. Still, good interior tech and otherwise solid construction could make up for that. At the end of the day, it's really between the Cannon Alpha and the Ranger in my eyes. There should be a fair indication of what ute buyers prefer by the end of the year, once owners have had time to mull their vehicles over and after they've both been on sale for a few months. We're also due to drive the Ranger PHEV for the first time very soon, so time will tell.
