The results show the continuing trend of slightly increased EV sales and the growing influence of Chinese brands at the expense of legacy brands. In fact, Chinese brands supplied one in three sales for the month.

Petrol remains the main fuel choice followed by diesel and BEVs which are almost equal.

Hybrids and PHEV sales are growing every month.

The top ten brands for the YTD are Toyota with almost 18% market share. That is more than twice as much as BYD who are second. Ford, Kia, and Mazda follow them. The next top five include: Hyundai, GWM, Tesla, Chery, and MG.

The top 10 selling models in September include a mix of engine technologies. They are Ford Ranger, Toyota RAV4, Tesla Model Y, Toyota HiLux. Then there is a large gap to the BYD Sealion 7,  Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, GWM Haval Jolion, Geely EX5, Toyota Prado, and the Isuzu D-Max.

One thing that was interesting in September was an increase in passenger car sales and a decrease in LCV sales. SUVs remain the overwhelming dominant popular choice for buyers.

With three months to go the last quarter will be remarkably interesting indeed

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Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE Car Sales Results September  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW.

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The new special edition, based on the Crosstrek AWD 2.0L, adds a range of surf-focused equipment, including Thule cross bars and surf pads, Subaru x Rip Curl seat protectors and cargo tray, rubber floor mats and weather shields.

Priced at $41,490 driveaway¹, the Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Special Edition arrives at participating Subaru Retailers from November 2026, just in time for summer.

For surfers, the result is a Crosstrek that Subaru equips for the realities of a day at the beach, providing dedicated equipment to carry boards, protect the cabin, and make it easier to pack everything needed for a surf trip, backed by Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-Mode capability.

The Rip Curl team riders Paul Moffatt and Willow Hardy have already tested the Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Special Edition by taking the wheel for a surf trip from Sydney to Phillip Island.

The journey combined highway driving, coastal roads and dirt tracks, putting Crosstrek’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-Mode capability to work along the way.

“We scored great surf along the way,” said Moffatt. “The car is comfy on the highway and versatile down the dirt tracks and it got us everywhere we needed to go.”

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Based on the Crosstrek AWD 2.0L, the Special Edition adds:

• Subaru x Rip Curl seat protectors for the driver and front passenger
• Rip Curl bonnet decal.
• Rip Curl exterior badge.
• Rip Curl interior badge.
• Subaru x Rip Curl cargo tray
• Thule cross bars
• Thule surf pads
• Rubber floor mats
• Front grille
• Front nose garnish
• Front mud flaps
• Resin cargo step panel.
• Weather shields

To find out more about the special edition visit https://www.subaru.com.au/special-offers/crosstrek-awd-rip-curl-edition or contact your local Subaru Retailer.

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

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Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

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Disclaimers

1. Advertised recommended retail driveaway price (RDP) applies to MY26 Subaru Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Edition only, applies to new and demonstrator vehicles. RDP includes the vehicle price, 12 months registration, stamp duty, CTP insurance (based on private purchaser with good driving record) and dealer delivery. Premium paint option at an additional cost. Offer must end 31/10/26 or while stocks last and vehicle must be delivered by 30/11/26.

*Model shown with optional paint in accompanying imagery

The post Subaru Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Special Edition appeared first on Motoring Minute.

At its heart is a 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 221 kW and 370 Nm, giving it plenty of punch whenever you put your foot down. Acceleration is rapid, and the GR Corolla feels especially eager once the turbo comes on boost, making overtaking and launching onto a back road genuinely exciting.

One of the car’s standout features is its exhaust note. The three-cylinder engine produces a distinctive, aggressive sound that feels mechanical and purposeful rather than overly artificial. Under hard acceleration, the exhaust barks and growls, adding to the sense that you are driving something built for fun.

But speed is only part of the GR Corolla’s appeal. Its GR-Four all-wheel-drive system provides impressive traction, allowing you to put the power down confidently while giving the car a playful character through corners. The sharp steering, responsive chassis and compact dimensions make every bend feel like an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

Ultimately, the GR Corolla is fun because it encourages you to drive it enthusiastically. It combines strong acceleration, a characterful engine and an exciting exhaust note with the agility of a proper performance hatchback. It is fast, engaging and remarkably entertaining every time you get behind the wheel.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications of the GR Corolla GTS  HERE.

Readers can find more details about the GR Corolla GTS – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE GR Corolla GTS  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What is good?

• Sporty performance and adjustable AWD
• Fun, personality, and soul.
• Smooth and easy to live with AT.

What is not so good?

• Ride can be a little harsh at times.
• Starting to get a little expensive
• No full-size spare

GR Corolla GTS buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the GR Corolla GTS could look at:  Subaru WRX Sportswagon, Hyundai i30N, Honda Type R, Renault Megane RS, Audi S3.

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post Toyota GR Corolla GTS Automatic driven for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

For ABN buyers there is a limited time offer of $2000 price reduction from $49,990 down to $47,000 if they buy before the 31^st October.

Plug in Hybrid electric vehicles are becoming more prevalent. The reason is that they are an easy way for manufacturers to abide by the governments draconian NVES rules.

The Cannon Hi4-T combines advanced PHEV technology, performance, electric driving range, off-road capability and towing capacity.

With a claimed NEDC EV only range of 115km the Cannon makes a mockery of the Ford Rangers PHEV 35km range.

At the heart of the Cannon Hi4-T is a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine working with GWM’s proprietary Hi4-T intelligent hybrid technology, combining petrol and electric power.

The result is a PHEV Ute that delivers:

• 310kW of combined power and 750Nm of combined torque
• Up to 115km of electric-only driving range (NEDC)^
• 3,500kg braked towing capacity
• True 4WD capability, combining mechanical 4WD hardware with electric assistance

Developed specifically for body-on-frame 4×4 vehicles, the Hi4-T system integrates electric drive technology with a conventional mechanical transmission and 4WD system. This approach delivers the benefits of plug-in hybrid driving while retaining the robust mechanical 4WD capability required for towing, touring and off-road driving.

For genuine 4WD buyers that mechanical link makes all the difference. It’s a real 4WD not a pretend one

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

More details about the GWM Cannon Hi4-T PHEV Ute can be found HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Cannon Hi4-T PHEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post GWM Cannon Hi4-T PHEV unveiled with a limited time driveaway pricing appeared first on Motoring Minute.

MG says the U9 EV is built for an active lifestyle, combining the practicality of a full-size Ute with lifestyle features.

These include

• a 236-litre frunk, which s the EV term for a front boot
• 685kg payload and
• 6kW V2L capability to power equipment away from mains electricity.

Power comes from a 102.2kWh LFP battery and dual electric motors. MG claims it provides 325kW of power and 700Nm of torque. For the seedy Gonzales buyers it also delivers 0–100km/h acceleration in 5.8 seconds.

The U9 EV features all-wheel drive and full-function four-wheel Electronic Air Suspension.

It also supports 11kW AC charging, with DC charging from 20–80 per cent taking approximately 42 minutes at up to 115kW.

Inside, the U9 EV combines Ute practicality with passenger-car comfort, featuring leather front seats, dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 15W wireless charging and an eight-speaker JBL sound system. The driver’s seat also features heating, ventilation and massage functionality.

Due to arrive in the last quarter this year the MGU9 EV will attract buyers that want the perceived benefits of EV only power with the practicality of a Ute.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Full details on the MGU9 EV can be found HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE MGU9 EV  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners.

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

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Powered by an 84-kWh battery that provides up to 450km WLTP range. This provides some 160kW of power and 350Nm of torque. This is based on Hyundai’s advanced 800V E-GMP architecture, enabling a 350kW DC fast-charge from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes.

The EV model joins the 2.2L turbo diesel and the 1.6 T Hybrid versions giving buyers a complete choice of powerplants.

All models have a 4,935-litre cargo capacity and a 1,005kg payload and 2,000kg braked towing capacity.

The manufacturer offers all three powertrain options in a two-seat configuration with a choice of Liftback or Twin Swing rear doors. An interior Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) outlet allows users to power electrical equipment via a standard three-pin outlet in the cargo area using STARIA Load Electric’s high-voltage battery.

Dealers price STARIA Load Electric from $70,990 plus the usual costs. An all-electric delivery van makes sense, especially when businesses have a charging base at their depot, where they can load and charge at the same time.

However, when dealers price the Staria Load 2.2L turb diesel version from $49,990 plus the usual costs, it is some $21,000 cheaper than the EV version. Customers need to use a lot of fuel cost before they make up the purchase price difference.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Staria Load EV can be found HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Staria Load EV  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners.

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Hyundai Staria Load EV – delivery vans jut got interesting appeared first on Motoring Minute.

GMC have just released an Australian specified limited edition called Signature Black.

Features include:

• Onyx Black exterior paint,
• Black Vader Chrome exterior detailing,
• Black exterior badging and 24-inch Black accessory wheels,
• And illuminated GMC emblem.

Also, with second row Captain’s Chairs that bring  first-class comfort, and a more spacious and premium experience.

The Black theme builds on what is already a commanding road presence. Ther really isn’t anything else like it on our roads

The Yukon Denali Signature Black is powered by GM’s 6.2-litre EcoTec3 V8 with Dynamic Fuel Management, producing 313kW of power and 624Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Active Response 4WD system, while Air Ride Adaptive four-corner suspension and Magnetic Ride Control support ride comfort and control across a range of road surfaces.

Inside the overall impression is of space and luxury. Especially with the second row captain’s chairs.

With heated and ventilated front seats, tri zone air-conditioning, wireless smart phone connectivity, a 16.8-inch vertical central screen and much more.

Its also built for towing and can tow up to 3600kg.

Priced from around $181,500 plus the usual costs it certainly appeals to s small segment of the market. But for those buyers that do indulge they are buying something that separates them form the usual 4WD SUV.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

More details about the Yukon Denali Signature Black can be found HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Mazda CX-70 GT  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners.

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post GMC Yukon Denali Signature Black – Australian specified special edition appeared first on Motoring Minute.

One of its best features is Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability on wet roads, gravel, and challenging surfaces.

This makes the Forester Sport a great choice for both everyday city driving and weekend adventures.

The Forester Sport also stands out for its comfortable and spacious interior. There is plenty of room for passengers, while the large cargo area provides useful space for shopping, sports equipment, luggage, or outdoor gear. Its excellent visibility is another advantage, making parking and navigating busy roads easier.

Another key feature is Subaru’s focus on safety. Depending on the model and market, the Forester Sport is equipped with advanced driver-assistance technology, including Subaru’s EyeSight system, which can help monitor traffic and support the driver in avoiding potential collisions.

The Sport variant also has distinctive exterior styling that gives the Forester a more adventurous appearance. Its practical design, higher ground clearance, and capable all-wheel-drive system make it suitable for light off-road driving as well as normal roads.

Inside, modern technology, comfortable seating, and convenient controls add to the driving experience. Overall, the Subaru Forester Sport is an excellent all-round SUV for drivers who value safety, practicality, comfort, reliability, and adventure-ready performance.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications of the Subaru Forester Sport  HERE.

You can find the full Subaru Forester review  HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Subaru Forester Sport  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers could also look at:

This is becoming a very popular segment. Buyers of the Subaru Forester Hybrid could also look at the following:

• Kia Sportage, 
• KGM Torres Hybrid
• Haval H6 
• Haval H6 Hybrid
• Toyota RAV 4 HEV
• Honda CRV, 
• Nissan X-Trail, 
• Hyundai Tucson, 
• Mazda CX-5, 
• Peugeot 3008, 
• Jaecoo J7
• VW Tiguan

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Subaru Forester Sport driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

First impressions are of luxury and space. Remember the V9 comes in two models with the top spec packed with standard luxury, comfort features.

We are definitely in premium SUV territory here.

Supportive and comfortable seats with side bolsters and electronic adjustments and additional lumbar support. Front seats are heated and ventilated and the outer rear seats are heated.

Adding to the premium feel is the highlight stitching and mood lighting with more than 200 variations.

The 12.3 inch drivers instrument panel  is configurable with multiple options. Most drivers will find what they like and leave it there.

The 14.6 inch central touch screen has excellent clarity. There has been a lot of work done to make the user interface easy and intuitive. Wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity is a bonus, but currently there is no Android Auto.

Rear seats have enough room for my 190cm frame to sit comfortably. There are isofix and top tether points on the two outer seats. With a long wheelbase and abundant rear seat room, placing a baby seat there is so much easier than a normal Ute.

The rear seats lift up and fold down for greater practicality and flexibility.

Overall, the interior of the V9 is what you would expect from an SUV that costs many thousands of dollars more.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE 

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

 TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland V9 Interior – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What is good?

• Absolutely stunning value for money
• Stylish mid-sized design
• Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

• It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
• No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
• Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

• Ford Ranger 2.0L XL
• Isuzu D-Max 2.2L
• Mazda BT-50 2.2L
• KGM Musso XLV
• GWM Cannon Alpha
• MGU9
• LDV Terron 9
• Chery Stockman
• JAC Hunter PHEV

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• The Foton Tunland V7 4WD capability
• Part Two – Foton V7 4WD Dual Cab Ute exterior features
• Part one Foton Tunland Long Term test
• Foton Tunland – Everything you need to know
• FOTON Tunland V7 C 2WD Ute driven for 2026.
• 2026 FOTON Tunland V7 and V9 review 
• Foton Tunland first drive for 2025
• FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing.

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In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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