Total sales for the first seven months of the year are up 1.6 per cent year on year.

Toyota remained comfortably Australia’s best-selling brand. Followed by BYD, Ford, Kia and Mazda.

The next top five brands are Hyundai, GWM, Chery, Mitsubishi and MG.

SUVs remain the most popular choice of vehicle and Utes are still a buyer favourite.

Toyota RAV 4 was the top selling model followed by two Utes.

Hybrids, PHEVs continue to grow in popularity and pure EVs are having a moment on the sun.

What we are seeing is a shift in buyer choices.

For those that have been around for a while and can remember when Japanese brands first started to be imported, the quality wasn’t the best, they improved. The same with the Korean brands, the original Hyundai excels were terrible, they improved. We are seeing this with the Chinese brands that are making rapid progress in quality.

They are starting to dominate the smaller EV and Hybrid sales. The shift to EVs levels the engineering playing field a touch, where engine tuning becomes irrelevant.

Where the Chinese brands have the real advantage is price. The next five months are going to be very interesting indeed.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO  THE Car Sales YTD July results – 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 New Car Sales YTD July 2026 results appeared first on Motoring Minute.

With the arrival of new models including its first-ever RAV4 plug-in hybrid, an all-electric HiLux and LandCruiser 300 Series performance hybrid.

In addition to the new powertrain offerings in current vehicle lines, it is also expanding its fully-electric SUV range with the bZ4X Touring now on sale alongside the upgraded bZ4X SUV.

Toyota now offers seven different powertrains across its entire Australian range to ensure it continues provide  Australian customers with the right vehicle, with the right powertrain that meets their needs.

The expansion of Toyota’s powertrain choice reflected the diverse needs of Australian motorists and will further drive its target to achieve 30 per cent of its total sales being zero and low-emission vehicles by the end of 2030.

Toyota has firmly been of the belief that there is no “one-size fits all’ when it comes to customer needs.

Along with Honda, Toyota was a pioneer of hybrid technology with the Prius way back in 2001. Toyota hybrid technology is now recognised as world leading as vehicles like the Camry Hybrid demonstrates.

Unlike a few brands that have gone all in on the EV trend and had to pull back again, Toyota has adopted a slowly- slowly approach that hindsight has proven to be prudent.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO  THE Toyota powertrain diversity – 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 Toyota powertrain diversity embraced to give choices to buyers. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Buyers can choose between a traditional petrol model or a fuel-efficient hybrid variant, depending on their driving preferences. The petrol range features a 2.0-litre horizontally opposed Boxer engine.  .

The Crosstrek Hybrid pairs the same Boxer petrol engine with an electric motor and battery system, improving fuel economy while maintaining responsive acceleration, particularly in urban driving conditions.

Both powertrains are matched to Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing seamless power delivery.

The Crosstrek is available in several model grades, with each offering increasing levels of comfort, technology, and convenience.

Standard equipment includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

While higher-specification models add premium interior materials, larger displays, wireless phone charging, and advanced driver assistance features.

Every Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with the company’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. Unlike part-time AWD systems that only activate when wheel slip occurs, Subaru’s permanent AWD continuously sends power to all four wheels, improving grip and stability in changing road conditions.

Selected models also feature X-Mode, which enhances traction on steep, slippery, or uneven surfaces.

This combination of efficient powertrains, capable AWD technology, and practical design makes the Crosstrek a well-rounded SUV for both city driving and outdoor adventures.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Subaru Crosstrek  HERE 

A full review of the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid can be found HERE

 TO THE Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid are in unusual territory. The number of sedans is reducing with many crossover style vehicles moving into the space.

Potential choices could be.

• Honda HR-V,
• Suzuki Vitara
• Nissan Qashqai
• Kia Seltos
• Hyundai Kona,
• Mazda CX-30 and
• Toyota Corolla Cross

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 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The sculpted bonnet adds to its muscular stance, enhancing both aesthetics and the impression of strength.

The front of the V7 is equipped with LED headlights and distinctive daytime running lights, providing excellent visibility while giving the vehicle a sharp, modern look.

Integrated front fog lamps improve visibility in poor weather conditions, adding both practicality and safety.

Along the sides, the V7 features pronounced wheel arches, stylish alloy wheels, and strong body lines that emphasise its robust pickup design. Side steps provide easier access to the cabin while complementing the vehicle’s rugged appearance.

Body-coloured door handles and mirrors contribute to a more premium finish, while power-adjustable mirrors improve convenience for the driver.

At the rear, the V7 includes a durable cargo tub designed for work and recreational use, complete with a sturdy tailgate and integrated rear bumper. LED taillights enhance visibility and provide a modern final addition.

Roof rails and practical tie-down points further increase versatility, making the Foton V7 suitable for transporting equipment, luggage, or outdoor gear while maintaining an attractive and confident exterior design.

Next week we look at inside the Foton V7

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 V7 – 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

• 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.

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 Foton V7 4WD Dual Cab Ute exterior features appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The latest to arrive is the JAC Hunter PHEV.

Priced from below $50,000 plus the usual costs, the Hunter plug-in hybrid dual-cab Ute provides a healthy 360kW of power and a claimed 1,000Nm of torque. Those are stunning figures. Towing is rated at 3500 kg as well.

JAC also claim that the Hunter will have an EV only range of up to 100km and a range of over 1000km from a fully charged battery and petrol engine.

JAC claims that they have tuned the Hunter for Australia’s harsh conditions with over 100,000 km of localized testing.These include ling distance durability, towing heavy loads, hit weather, dirt roads and city and motorway driving.

There are two models available and the top spec includes standard features like:

• Front and rear differential locks (optional for Hunter Pro)
• Electronic adjustable and Heated front seats
• Five off road drive modes
• 360° panoramic view camera and a
• Rear 220V accessory socket

There is strong competition, with models like BYD Shark 6, Cannon Alpha PHEV, Foton Tunland, MG U9 and others.

One thing is for sure, Ute buyers in Australia have never had as much choice as now. They just need to make the right choice for their needs and not be lured by headline figures and low prices.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the JAC Hunter PHEV – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE JAC Hunter PHEV – 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 JAC Hunter PHEV Dual Cab Ute now available appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Range Rover Sport Electric was presented in a private preview event at Goodwood Festival of Speed, UK. In an homage to its legacy of pioneering performance, it  tackled a series of driven challenges on the Goodwood Motor Circuit.

The new model integrates a suite of advanced technologies aimed at increased power and torque, along with a new chassis tune and audio enhancement.

Range Rover Electric is aiming to lead the way for electric propulsion capability, refinement and luxury travel,

Engineers deployed previous Range Rover Electric vehicle prototypes at some of the world’s most challenging test locations. They tested the all-electric drivetrain at extremes of temperatures, from -40°C in the Arctic Circle to +50°C in the searing deserts of the Middle East.

The addition of pure-electric propulsion later this year will complete the powertrain line-up for Range Rover Sport, with a plug-in electric hybrid, mild-hybrid V8 petrol and six-cylinder petrol and diesel offering a suitable option for every client.

Martin Limpert, Managing Director, Range Rover, said: “Electric power brings a new edge to Range Rover Sport. The preview at Goodwood Festival of Speed is only a glimpse of how this model will redefine performance SUVs again later this year.

Stay tuned for further details as they are revealed.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

 TO LISTEN TO THE Range Rover Sport Electric – 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 Range Rover Sport Electric: the pinnacle of sporting luxury appeared first on Motoring Minute.

While both models share the same rugged platform and powertrain, they are designed to appeal to different buyers.

The V7 is the work-focused option, available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations with leaf-spring rear suspension for durability and load-carrying ability.

The V9 is aimed at buyers wanting extra comfort and refinement, featuring standard 4WD, multi-link rear suspension and a more premium interior with additional technology and convenience features.

Powering both Utes is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine produces 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque, with drive sent through a smooth ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

The mild-hybrid system improves efficiency and assists with low-speed performance while maintaining a claimed combined fuel consumption of around 8.0L/100km. Both models also offer a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg.

Pricing starts from around AUD $39,990 for the Tunland V7 4×2, with the V7 4×4 priced from $42,990. The V9 range begins at $45,990, while the flagship V9-S is available from $49,990 before on-road costs, making the Tunland range a competitively priced alternative in the Ute segment.

Over the next few weeks, we will be chatting about all the models and features.

Thai sis 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 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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

• 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.

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 Foton Tunland Dual Cab Ute details Long term test 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Named Rubicon after the famous trail  which is a 22-mile-long route, part road and part 4×4 trail, located in the Sierra Nevada of the western United States, due west of Lake Tahoe.

The Rubicon is perhaps the most capable standard 4WD available.

Standard features include:

• Rock-Trac® Active On-Demand 4×4 System
• Front and rear diff locks.
• 252mm of ground clearance
• Electronic Front sway bars disconnect.
• Heavy duty Dana front and rear axles
• Outstanding approach, rampover and departure angles

The biggest criticism in the past with Jeeps is that while they are awesome off road, they were only just ok on road. That’s also improved. With levels of comfort and luxury more like a large SUV and better ride and handling, they make travelling to your favourite 4WD track pleasurable.

Another recent improvement is the engine, now a 2.0L turbo petrol engine with plenty of performance and a lot better fuel economy.

In a word that is becoming sanitised, homogenised, and electrified, The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon will always have a place in my garage.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Wrangler Rubicon – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Wrangler Rubicon – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some other Wrangler Reviews

• Jeep Wrangler Overland 4WD built for adventure and fun
• Jeep Wrangler Overland 4WD driven for 2025
• Best of 2023 – Jeep Wrangler Rubicon review
• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4WD  2023 Review
• We drive the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4WD 2023
• Jeep Wave – Jeep Wrangler driver culture

Jeep  Wrangler Rubicon – Buyers could also look at:

This is a popular, yet small segment with strong competition. Some of the better choices are: 

• INEOS Grenadier
• Land Rover Defender
• Toyota Prado Altitude
• Toyota LandCruiser 70 series Wagon
• GWM Tank 300

Other more conservative alternatives include:

• Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain
• Ford Everest Tremor
• Nissan Patrol Warrior (Y62 model)

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 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4WD driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

While contemporary styling details and premium interior finishes create a more refined driving experience.

Power comes from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a high-output electric motor and a large lithium-ion battery. Together, the system produces substantially more power and torque than the conventional petrol model, delivering strong acceleration both on and off the road.

The electric motor provides instant torque from standstill, making the Tank 300 responsive in urban driving while also offering smooth, controlled power delivery over rough terrain. Drivers can also complete shorter daily trips using electric power alone, with a NEDC claimed range of up to 115km.

The Tank 300 PHEV retains the off-road hardware that has made the model popular with Australian buyers. It features a ladder-frame chassis, a full-time four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing, front and rear differential locks, multiple terrain modes, hill descent control and generous ground clearance.

These features enable it to confidently tackle steep climbs, rocky tracks, deep ruts and sandy conditions while maintaining traction in challenging environments.

By combining genuine off-road credentials with plug-in hybrid efficiency, the GWM Tank 300 PHEV offers buyers a versatile SUV capable of handling weekday commuting and demanding weekend adventures with equal confidence.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Tank 300 PHEV  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Tank 300 PHEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Tank 300 PHEV – Buyers could also look at:

The Tank 300 PHEV   is an unusual vehicle. There aren’t many smaller true, dual range 4WD vehicles available. Some possible alternatives include:

• Suzuki Jimny Rhino 
• Jeep Wrangler
• Denza B5
• Subaru Forester Hybrid

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 GWM Tank 300 PHEV – 4WD Plug-in Hybrid driven. appeared first on Motoring Minute.