Aimed almost purely at mine sites, councils and other corporate buyers. I really don’t see many private buyers lining up.

The reason is that many businesses are looking to tick boxes for reduced tailpipe emissions.

Development work done in mine sites across Australia, reinforces this thought.

Due for release in May, there are two dual cab models available. The SR with a tray back and pickup versions and the SR5 with a Pickup style.

HiLux BEV is underpinned by a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery and dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.

Combined system output for the HiLux BEV is 144kW, with torque distribution variably controlled between the front and rear axles during on-road driving to provide high-traction full-time AWD.

Driving range for the pick-up grades is rated at 315km on the NEDC cycle, while the SR cab-chassis is rated at 245km. Real world range will differ obviously.

Toyota has upgraded the suspension to accommodate the extra weight of the battery.

Towing is rated at 2000kg.

For off-roading, Toyota’s sophisticated Multi-Terrain Select traction control system offers six different drive modes to suit the conditions underfoot.

Pricing is from $74.990 through to $82.990 plus the usual costs.

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I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the HiLux BEV – HERE

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It’s quiet easy to work out the road rules for scooters. There are none. In Thailand , as in most Asian countries, they simply go where they want to.

It’s nothing to see scooters running against the traffic, cutting across roads, weaving in and out of traffic and just doing their own thing. But the interesting observation is that no one seems to mind. There is a level of simple acceptance and patience that Australia could benefit from adopting.

The other thing that was noticeable was the diverse uses that scooters have. From young teens riding to school, families of three to four sitting happily. Young children learn a sense of balance early in life.

Also, there were side cars, not as you would expect, but a cage style that carried everything from moving house, to cooking stalls to entire families.

The scooter culture in Asian countries seems different to European cities. There is its chaotic, and almost overwhelming. In Asian countries it seems natural.

Another observation is that there are no electric bicycles. That’s probably because as mentioned before young teens simply ride scooters. Also, unlike Australia where teens in electric bukes cause traffic issues darting in and out of traffic and riding in groups, in Thailand everyone is simply going about their daily life.

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Im Rob Fraser

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With its larger 25.9 kilowatt-hour battery, you can commute up to 100 kilometres on pure electric power, while Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel drive ensures precision in every corner.

Step inside the “Digital Stage.” A stunning, curved OLED panoramic display wraps around the driver, featuring a 14.5-inch touchscreen and the iconic Audi Virtual Cockpit.

From the sustainable, high-end cabin materials to the world-first panoramic sunroof with switchable transparency, every detail is engineered for luxury and innovation.

The 2026 Audi A5. It’s a bold new chapter for the brand, and the new benchmark for the performance hybrid.

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Audi A5 e-hybrid – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Audi A5 e-hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Audi A5 e-hybrid – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Audi A5 e-hybrid are in unusual territory. The number of sedans is reducing with many crossover style vehicles moving into the space.

Potential choices could be Toyota Camry SL Hybrid, Peugeot 408 GT Hybrid, Genesis G70, Lexus ES, Alfa Romeo Giulia,

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Most of the time was spent on the Thailand Laos border town and while busy it was also relaxed.

It took me a few days to realise that there may be some road rules, but few drivers seem to know them.

Also, there aren’t any delivery vans here. So, the ubiquitous Ute has broadened its appeal.

They all seem to have an attached cage that either is roof height or much higher. This keeps the loads somewhat restrained.

Also, They have a unique cover that converts the Ute to a small delivery truck.

Most Utes are the space cab style. I would say 80% that I saw.

There are few single cab Utes and more dual cab Utes.

Like many similar countries, I also saw some loads that made me wonder just how they didn’t tip over. Im talking 2-3 metres above the cabin height all tied down with ropes.

And of course, there were workers everywhere and even families riding in the back either on top of the loads or in the tubs.

Yes, it’s a little different to Australia.

What was interesting is the models available. Toyota have a work Ute called the HiLux Champ. It’s a different looking Ute that was everywhere. And given that it’s missing all but the most basic safety features, I can see it coming here anytime soon.

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Im Rob Fraser

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Overall, 108,103 vehicle sales were recorded in March 2026, which is slightly lower than last year.

Petrol remained the dominant fuel choice followed by diesel. Hybrid and PHEV sales continue to grow. Electric vehicle sales almost doubled in March compared to last year. YTD they are around  10% of sales.

The surge can be attributed to changes to a review of the FBT rules and surging petrol prices. However I feel that many buyers will have buyer regret down the track for reacting to short term influences.

SUVs continue their seemingly unstoppable growth followed by LCV which includes Utes and delivery vans.

Passenger car sales continue to decline, but there may be hope yet with a umber of manufacturers introducing new models into the segment.

Of the top ten models sold in March 3 were Utes, and the rest were SUVs.

Toyota remains the dominant brand with double the sales of number two brand Mazda, However they are 20% down on last year.

Kia, Ford and Hyundai make up the top five brands.

The next five are BYD, GWM, Mitsubishi, Chery and MG

This brand mix would be unthinkable even three years ago.

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Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the New Car Sales  – HERE

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A hybrid Vitara makes a lot of sense. The Vitara Hybrid is powered by Suzuki’s Smart Hybrid system that combines a 1.4L turbo petrol engine and lithium-ion battery with 48V mild hybrid technology.

Improvements in acceleration, fuel efficiency and emission reductions are the result.

There are two versions available The Vitara Turbo Hybrid and the Vitara Turbo Hybrid ALLGRIP

Designed with versatility in mind, the ALLGRIP all-wheel drive system offers drivers enhanced traction and confidence across varying road and weather conditions.

With selectable driving modes including Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock, ALLGRIP allows the Suzuki to adapt to everyday commuting as well as weekend adventures, reinforcing its position as a capable and confidence-inspiring compact SUV.

All models come with an impressive range of safety features and are well equipped.

Pricing for the Vitara hybrid start at $39,990 drive away for the base model and $45,990 drive away for the All Grip model.

This is a clever move by Suzuki as smaller SUVs are becoming more popular making up the largest segment of SUV sales.

Having a hybrid model available allows buyers greater choice.

It sits in a competitive segment that includes vehicles like

• the capable Subaru Crosstrek,
• Honda HRV,
• Toyota Corolla Cross,
• Nissan QASHQAI and
• Kia Seltos.

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Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Suzuki Vitara Hybrid  – HERE

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The Palisade is available in one beautifully appointed model, the Calligraphy. You can choose between seven or eight seats, and we tested the seven-seat version with mid-row captain’s chairs.

There’s one petrol hybrid engine option, and it strikes a lovely balance between being powerful enough for family road trips while still remaining economical for everyday mum life.

Inside, the Palisade feels spacious thanks to its long wheelbase and large SUV design. The rear doors open wide, which makes installing a baby seat and putting a sleeping bub in the seat much easier — something every mum will appreciate.

Of course, there are ISOFIX and top tether points for added safety and peace of mind.

There are even pull-up window shades to help protect little ones from the harsh sun.

If you need to sit in the second row, the captain’s chairs mean you’re slightly further away from the other seat, but they’re roomy, comfortable, and supportive — ideal for longer trips.

The third row is surprisingly practical too.

With slide and recline functions, plus heated seats, it doesn’t feel like an afterthought.

It’s clearly designed for regular use, whether that’s older kids, grandparents, or carpooling.

When used as a four-seater, there’s plenty of boot space for prams, nappy bags and all the baby gear that somehow multiplies overnight.

If you’re using all seven or eight seats, luggage space does reduce, but it’s still better than many other large SUVs.

Around town, it can feel big in tight car parks. Otherwise, it’s smooth, quiet, and easy to drive, which is exactly what you want when you’ve finally got a sleeping baby in the back.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Palisade – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Palisade – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Palisade could look at :  Mazda CX-90, Nissan Pathfinder, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Subaru Outback, Lexus RX, Toyota Kluger Grande

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The updated MY26 X-TRAIL range boasts design enhancements, advanced technology features, and an increase in service intervals, boosting the appeal that has made it a standout in Australia’s competitive medium SUV segment.

Some of the highlights include:

• refreshed front and rear styling,
• updated 18- and 19-inch wheel designs on select grades,
• enhanced interior materials and finishes, and
• the introduction of Nissan’s Connected Car Services^#(CCS 1.0) technology across the entire range.
• All grades now also offer a 12.3-inch Infotainment Screen and Wireless Apple Car Play^>and Android Auto^> as standard.

• In what will be a cost saving for owners Service intervals increase on both the e-POWER and ICE MY26 X-TRAIL models to 15,000km/12 months (previously 10,000km/12 months).

I’ve been a big fan of the e-power hybrid system. This essentially has the X-Trail driving more like an EV without the hassles of charging as the petrol engine acts as a generator essentially. That’s a simple explanation.

The MY26 X-TRAIL will be available across 5 model grades, with both conventional ICE and e-POWER e-4ORCE variants offered. The range continues to provide five-seat and seven-seat configurations to suit varying family requirements.

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I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Nissan X-Trail – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Nissan X-Trail – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Nissan X-Trail – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could also look at : Subaru Forester,  Toyota RAV 4 , Honda CRV,  Haval H6, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Peugeot 3008, 

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As such it ticks the boxes for a new mum car.

To be specific we had the CX-90 B 8A G50E AZAMI TAKUMI AWD. This included the optional package with all white leather – perhaps not the best for babies, and captains’ seats in the middle row.

Wide opening doors allowed easy access for placing bub in the baby seat. Installing the baby seat is easy with isofix and top tether points. There is still plenty of room for the front seat passenger. Zoned air conditioning allows drivers to tailor the airflow to the back for more comfort.

Third row seats are for two smaller people only and access is tight. Using them also restricts boot space and packing  a pram and other gear becomes more difficult. As a four or five seat SUV its excellent.

Being the top model Mazda has every luxury, comfort, and safety feature in there that you could ask for. That’s comforting for families.

Next week we will chat about safety and engine choices.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Mazda CX-90 Azami – HERE

You can download the full Mazda CX-90 Azami Brochure HERE 

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Mazda CX-90 Azami – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could also look at : Toyota Kluger, Nissan Pathfinder, Genesis GV80, Hyundai Palisade, Lexus RX

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