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.

Power comes from Toyota’s proven 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, working in conjunction with Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system.

The petrol engine is supported by electric motors that assist during acceleration, low-speed driving and hill climbing, improving both performance and fuel economy.

An additional rear electric motor provides on-demand all-wheel drive, automatically directing power to the rear wheels when extra traction is required on wet roads, gravel tracks or slippery surfaces.

The hybrid system operates seamlessly, switching between petrol and electric power without driver intervention to maximise efficiency.

The Cruiser grade adds a generous range of premium features. Leather-accented upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof create a comfortable cabin.

A large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, a premium JBL sound system and a fully digital instrument cluster enhance connectivity and convenience.

Safety is comprehensive, with Toyota Safety Sense.

Including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane tracing assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a panoramic view monitor.

Combining strong hybrid efficiency, premium features and Toyota’s renowned reliability, the RAV4 Cruiser AWD Hybrid remains one of Australia’s most popular medium size  SUVs.

Priced from $60,340 plus the usual costs

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the RAV4 Cruiser AWD– HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE RAV4 Cruiser AWD – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some other Toyota RAV 4 Motoring Minute segments

• Toyota RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid 2wd driven for 2026.
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid driven for 2024
• 2024 Toyota RAV 4 Cruiser Hybrid SUV Review

RAV4 Cruiser – Buyers could also look at:

This is a popular segment with strong competition form a lot of brands. Some of the better choices are: 

• Subaru Forester Hybrid
• Honda CRV, 
• Nissan X-Trail, 
• Haval H6, 
• Hyundai Tucson, 
• Kia Sportage, 
• Mazda CX-5, 
• Peugeot 3008, 

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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 We drive the Toyota RAV4 Cruiser AWD SUV for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Its was year end so government incentives for electric vehicles played a part. Also, BYD had a surge in recorded sales as a result of increased supply. They have their own ship bringing cars to Australia.

Tesla also had a record month in sales.

These three events have seen the level of EV sales reach a bit over 20%. Only time will tell if this is a blip or a more permanent shift in consumer demand.

Toyota remained the top brand for June, but it was followed closely by BYD., Who are now running second for the YTD as well.

Ford, Kia and Mazda follow them. The next five brands are Hyundai, GWM, Chery, Mitsubishi and MG.

Of the top ten selling vehicles in June  3 were Utes and the rest were SUVs.

China is now the largest source of vehicles for the market. With about 35% of sales. Something that seemed a remote possibility even a few years ago.

With new models and even new brands coming in the next six months, we are in for a very interesting second half of the year.

I do think that EV sales will fall back a bit during that time and settle around 15% of sales, but time will tell.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the  Car Sales YTD June – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Car Sales YTD June  – 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 Car sales results YTD June 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Unlike a conventional hybrid, the 48-volt system cannot drive the vehicle on electric power alone. Instead, it uses a compact electric motor-generator and lithium-ion battery to:

• provide additional torque during acceleration,
• lower fuel consumption
• ensure a quieter stop-start operation and
• recover energy during braking.

Power continues to come from Toyota’s 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, producing 150 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.

Compared with lower-specification models, it features a wider track, revised suspension, rear disc brakes and larger wheel arches, improving stability both on and off the road.

Standard equipment includes.

• 18-inch alloy wheels,
• leather-accented seats,
• a powered driver’s seat,
• heated front seats,
• dual-zone climate control,
• a premium multimedia system with wireless smartphone connectivity and
• a 360-degree camera.

Off road, the HiLux Rogue retains its impressive credentials with selectable four-wheel drive, low-range gearing, a rear differential lock, hill descent control and excellent ground clearance.

The addition of the mild hybrid system enhances refinement without compromising the durability or rugged dependability that have made the HiLux a favourite among Australian Ute buyers.

Priced from $71,990 plus the usual costs it has a lot of competitors but remains popular with buyers.

The Rogue remains the flagship HiLux for buyers seeking a blend of work capability and premium comfort.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the HiLux Rogue – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE HiLux Rogue – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some other Toyota HiLux Motoring Minute segments

• Toyota HiLux Workmate 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026.
• Toyota has released the HiLux BEV
• 2024 Toyota HiLux SR 48V Mild Hybrid 4WD dual Cab Ute
• Toyota HiLux Hybrid – updated with hybrid technology
• We drive the Toyota HiLux GR Sport 2024 Review
• First drive in a Toyota HiLux GR Sport

Toyota HiLux Rogue – Buyers could also look at:

This is a popular segment with strong competition form a lot of brands. Some of the better choices are: 

• Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain
• Kia Tasman,  
• Ford Ranger Tremor, 
• Nissan Navara Pro 4-X Warrior, 
• Mazda BT-50 SP, 
• Mitsubishi Triton GSR.
• Foton Tunland V9

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 HiLux Rogue 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

On the road, the X-Trail ST-L delivers a smooth and composed driving experience. Its suspension is tuned to absorb bumps effectively, providing a comfortable ride around town and on longer highway journeys. The steering is light and responsive, making parking and manoeuvring easy, while the elevated driving position offers excellent visibility for the driver.

In terms of design, the X-Trail ST-L features a modern and stylish appearance. The bold front grille, sleek LED lighting, and sculpted body lines give the SUV a contemporary look that stands out without being overly aggressive.

Inside, the cabin is spacious and thoughtfully designed, with quality materials and a practical layout.

The ST-L grade adds premium touches such as leather-accented seats, a large infotainment display, and advanced driver-assistance technologies that enhance comfort and convenience.

Powering the X-Trail ST-L is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that provides a balance of performance and efficiency. The engine delivers smooth acceleration and enough power for daily commuting, family trips, and highway overtaking.

Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the powertrain focuses on refined operation and fuel economy. Overall, the Nissan X-Trail ST-L offers an appealing combination of driving comfort, attractive design, and dependable performance.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

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

You can download the full Nissan X-Trail Brochure HERE 

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

Nissan X-Trail ST-L  – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in medium size SUVs is huge.

The X-Trail ST-L  has strong competition with:

• Subaru Forester
• Hyundai Tucson
• Kia Sportage
• Toyota RAV 4
• Mazda CX-5
• Honda CRV
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Haval H6
• KGM Torres
• Skoda Karoq
• VW Tiguan
• BYD Sealion 6
• MG HS

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 Nissan X-Trail ST-L 2.5L AWD SUV driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Its powerful V8 engine became a defining feature, delivering the kind of performance, sound, and character that many believe cannot be replicated by smaller turbocharged engines.

There is a genuine sense of sadness surrounding the decision to stop production. The V8 Patrol represented more than just a vehicle; it symbolised adventure, durability, and a distinctly Australian love for large-capacity engines.

The deep rumble of the V8, combined with the Patrol’s rugged design, created an experience that owners proudly identified with. For many families, a Patrol was present during camping holidays, towing trips, and countless memories made on the road.

Understanding the reasons behind the change does little to lessen the disappointment felt by loyal fans. Many enthusiasts worry that future models, while more advanced and environmentally friendly, may lack the raw personality and mechanical simplicity that made the V8 Patrol so beloved.

While new vehicles will bring innovation and improved efficiency, the V8 Nissan Patrol will be remembered as one of the great icons of Australian motoring, leaving behind a legacy that few four-wheel drives can match.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

A full product brochure can be found HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Nissan Patrol V8– HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Nissan Patrol V8– RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Nissan Patrol V8– Buyers could also look at:

This is a popular segment with strong competition form a lot of brands. Some of the better choices are: 

• Toyota LandCruiser 300
• Land Rover Defender
• Land Rover Discovery
• Lexus LX Overtrail 
• Toyota Prado, 
• INEOS Grenadier,
• Hyundai Palisade XRT

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 Nissan Patrol V8– the end of an Era appeared first on Motoring Minute.

A new entrant is coming soon. The Chery Stockman. They derived the name from a National competition where more than 20,000 suggestions Australians across the country were submitted.

Responses from motorists, tradies, families, Ute enthusiasts and regional communities nationwide.

Following an extensive review and public voting process, ‘Stockman’ emerged as the winning name.

I have to say its kind of a cool name and very Australian.

We don’t know much about the Stockman yet. Based on overseas information it will arrive with a 2.5-litre PHEV diesel engine producing 260kW of power and 680Nm of torque combined. It will have over 100km of EV only range and operate as a normal hybrid otherwise.

It is safe to say it will have a 3500kg towing capacity and over 100kg payload. Along with that, It will also have dual range 4WD capability along with front and rear diff locks.

With the GWM Cannon Alpha and BYD Shark 6 also having over 100 km EV range, they make the Ford Ranger PHEV claimed 50km range look a bit pathetic really.

Further details, including specifications, pricing and launch timing for Stockman, will be announced closer to market introduction.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Chery Stockman – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Chery Stockman – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Chery Stockman – Buyers could also look at:

This is a growing segment with competition form a few brands. Some of the better choices are:

• BYD Shark 6
• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV
• JAC Hunter PHEV Ute
• Ford Ranger PHEV

Other Utes include.

• FOTON Tunland mild hybrid
• KGM Musso
• LDV Terron 9
• MG 9

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 Chery Stockman dual cab 4WD Ute coming soon appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Overall, the styling is appealing, with a bold grill, sleek profile and smooth  rear.

Quite a few people stopped to ask what is was.

Inside there are comfortable front seats with electronic adjustments. The heating function is excellent.

With a height and reach adjustable multifunction steering wheel it’s easy to find a relaxed driving position.

A large central screen dominates the cabin. With outstanding clarity and resolution. The reverse camera choices are an added bonus. There is a mix of button and screen adjustments, and it takes a little time to work out.

In the rear there is ample room for tow large adults and a third when needed. The amount of leg , head and shoulder room is impressive for this size vehicle.

Powered by a 1.5L turbo hybrid petrol engine with electronic AWD AND A dedicated hybrid transmission. Its smooth, zippy and economical as we averaged 5.9l/100k over the week across all driving conditions.

There are a few little quirks, but I have to say the Haval H6 Hybrid is definitely worth a drive. Especially at a price that starts from less than $44,000 driveaway.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Haval H6 Ultra  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Haval H6 Ultra – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Haval H6 Hybrid  – Buyers could also look at:

This is a popular segment with strong competition form a lot of brands. Some of the better choices are: 

• KGM Torres Hybrid
• BYD Sealion 6 
• Subaru Forester Hybrid
• Toyota RAV 4 HEV
• Honda CRV, 
• Nissan X-Trail, 
• Hyundai Tucson, 
• Kia Sportage, 
• Mazda CX-5, 
• Peugeot 3008, 

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 Haval H6 Ultra Hybrid driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.