These popular 4WD vehicles have been so popular that Toyota had to place a hold on orders because of global component supply issues. The backlog is now clearing, helped by the introduction of the 4 Cylinder version.

The LC70 Series comes in four body styles the single cab chassis and dual cab chassis, troop carrier and wagon.

It comes with a choice of two engines that defines the transmission choices.

• The traditional 1VD-FTV 4.5-litre turbodiesel V8 engine and five-speed manual transmission.
• The modified 1GD 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The benefits of the 1GD 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine

• Same power and 70Nm more torque
• Same torque at 1200rpm as V8 peak torque
• Automatic transmission with torque converter
• More functionality, with DAC, 2^nd gear start, PWR haul functionality.
• Better economy and lower emissions
• Lighter body weight and more payload
• Around $4,000 cheaper in every model variant.

The LC70 Series 4WD’s are legendary for a reason, they are awesome.

But They are expensive, very expensive.

Buyers now have a choice between the traditional V8 and the cheaper, modified 4 Cylinder with an Automatic transmission and a bunch of extra functionalities that comes with that.

It’s a no brainer really, the 4 Cylinder is better in almost 99% of applications.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find a complete review HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE TOYOTA LC70 RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Toyota LC70 Upgrade Video

Toyota LC70 Series Final thoughts

The LC70 Series 4WD’s are legendary for a reason, they are bloody awesome.

They are expensive, very expensive.

I have always loved the 4.5L V8 in the 70 series. And always wanted an AT for it. It sounds angry and that’s a good thing.

Most of what is good about the upgrades are because of the automatic transmission fitted. This came about because of the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine.

Buyers now have a choice between the traditional V8 and the cheaper, modified 4 Cylinder with an Automatic transmission and a bunch of extra functionalities that comes with that.

It’s a no brainer really, the 4 Cylinder is better in almost 99% of applications.

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Audi is one of many companies that run such a charitable foundation and their attest fundraising activity involves raffling off a Q5 Sportback TFSI e. The stunning Q5 in Navara Blue is valued at around $135,000 drive away. This is their new PHEV version of the ever-popular Q5 SUV.

Since its inception the Audi Foundation has given away over $6 million dollars to its charity partners.

Tickets in the latest raffle cost $50 each and are on sale until the 6^th December and its drawn on the 8^th December. That could make for a pretty good Christmas present for someone, not to mention the help the Foundation provides to those in desperate need.

Foundation partners include R U OK?, ReachOut, The Children’s Cancer Institute, and the Humpty Dumpty Foundation.

Unfortunately, our listeners in WA apparently cant participate, due to some archaic state laws.

There is a link to the Foundation on our website on Motoring Munute.com.au

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE AUDI FOUNDATION RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

More Audi Foundations raffle details

• Proceeds from the raffle go to Audi Foundation’s eight deserving charity partners
• Mannering: “Purchasing a ticket not only gives you a great chance of winning a brand new Audi Q5, it helps us support many great charities within the community”
• Raffle tickets are $50 and are available for purchase now until 6th December

Audi Foundation has launched its latest fundraising raffle, with the lucky winner taking a brand-new plug-in hybrid; an Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e in Navarra Blue, valued up to $125,148 (driveaway)*.

Since its inception in 2017, Audi Foundation has donated a staggering $6 million to charity partners advancing medical treatment and technology, shaping education and career futures, driving positive mental health outcomes, and supporting sustainable communities.

With the support of Audi Australia and the contributions of the national Audi dealer network, the Foundation has impacted countless individuals and families through its fundraising efforts, helping to make a difference to drive positive change in Australia.

Audi Foundation’s 11th raffle will offer ticket-holders the chance to win a brand-new plug-in hybrid Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e in Navarra Blue, worth $125,148 (driveaway)*.

Who gets the money?

Tickets are priced at $50 and proceeds go to the Foundation’s charity partners and programs including; The Smith Family, R U OK?, ReachOut, The Children’s Cancer Institute, Humpty Dumpty Foundation, Youth Opportunities, Zephyr Education Inc. and Country Education Foundation of Australia.

“We are incredibly grateful to those that support the Audi Foundation prize draws,” said Jeff Mannering, Director Audi Australia and Chairman of Audi Foundation.

“Purchasing a ticket not only gives you a great chance of winning a brand new Audi Q5, it helps us support many great charities within the community. We are overjoyed that year on year our charity partners receive vital funding, but our Audi dealer network and those who purchase tickets in the Audi Foundation prize draws make this possible.

Of course, we are thrilled to see someone lucky enough to drive away in an Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e, and we are grateful to everyone who enters the prize draw.

Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e

The Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e showcases the brand’s expertise in both electrification and highly-efficient internal combustion technology. The powerful yet extremely efficient 2.0-litre TFSI engine and electric motor power the vehicle. Which combines all of the attributes of the brand’s most popular SUV. With the convenience and efficiency of a plug-in hybrid electric car.

Delivering outstanding performance and tremendous fuel efficiency. It also has the capacity to drive on fully-electric power for up to 53km.

The engine produces 195kW and 370Nm of torque. Paired with an electric motor outputting 105kW and 350Nm of torque. Producing a combined output of 270kW and an impressive 500Nm. This makes the Q5 plug-in hybrid the most powerful Q5 model ever, and with its seven-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive with ultra technology, delivers a blistering 5.3 second sprint from standstill to 100km/h.

How to buy tickets

Tickets are priced at $50, available to purchase online at https://audifoundation.com.au/prizedraw. All entrants go in the draw to win a brand new plug-in hybrid Audi Q5 Sportback TFSI e in Navarra Blue, valued at $125,148 (driveaway)*. The draw is open to all Australian residents, with the exception of those in Western Australia. Entrants must be 18 years old or over.

The raffle will conclude on Wednesday 6 December, 2023 at 17:00 (AEST). We will draw winners randomly from all eligible entrants on Friday 8 December 2023 at 3:00PM (AEST). We will announce the winners of the draw at https://www.audifoundation.com.au.

• Audi Foundation Raffle 11 Prize Draw
• Audi Foundation Website

*All registration and on-road costs included. No optional extras or accessories included unless stated. No vehicle insurance provided. Prize value based on registration of the vehicle in NSW.

This prize can be collected from any Audi Australia dealer (See www.audi.com.au for a list of dealer locations). This Prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. Conditions apply – see terms and conditions.

Note: Images do not depict the actual prize and some features shown may differ.

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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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Held over the weekend of 22-24 September, the EV Expo was an opportunity for interested buyers to have a close look at many vehicles at the one time.

Many of the key EV Brands were there including Audi, Peugeot, Kia, Lexus, Polestar, Cupra and more. Some were noticeable by their absence, such as BYD and Tesla, although there was an owners stand.

By all accounts it was a success with many manufacturers reporting a lot of interest. This is all part of the ongoing education of the buying public about EVs and their place in the automotive landscape.

Along with EV manufacturers, businesses involved in charging outlets and energy well supported the expo. One interesting aspect was the number of stands that showcased electric scooters and motorbikes, as well as bicycles, skateboards, and stand-up scooters.

In all the discussions about electric cars, people often overlook these viable alternatives. Unfortunately, recent years have seen the yearly Motor Shows die off, but this new format may resurrect them now.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE EV SHOW 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. 

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Sean is a man that is passionate about the Auto industry in Australia, passionate about Toyota customers and the brand itself.

One of our favourite topics is the ever-changing world of alternative fuel sources.

Toyota has a philosophy that no one fuel source will solve every customer’s needs. A philosophy I agree with.

At their recent showcase, Toyota unveiled several different vehicles with different fuel sources. These included mild hybrid, full hybrid, EVs, and Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Over the next 15 months or so we will see Toyota with a complete complement of vehicles that cover these fuel sources.

One topic we briefly touched on is the emergence of Bio Fuel as an alternative. It has a lot of promise, but not necessarily the flavour of the month with the politicians. However, the infrastructure is already there. The fuel is relatively easy to produce and has no or little exhaust emissions.

Over 24 years Toyota has probably done more for the environment than any other manufacturer with their National Tree Day. tree planting program. This year the aim is planting 1,000,000 trees. That, there listeners, does more for reducing CO2 than any electric car available.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE CHAT WITH SEAN RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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 Number five was a surprise. People that can’t park in between the lines in car parks. Apparently, the car space lines are merely suggestions as to where to park for some people.

Number four is people that do 70kmh in a 90kmh zone then keep doing 70kmh when it changes to 60kmh. Driving slowly and safely are often two different things.

Number three is P Plate drivers restricted to 80 or 90 kmh on the freeway. Survey responders felt that this was extremely dangerous for the P Plate driver and other drivers.

Number two is drivers that don’t indicate left in roundabouts We’ve all been there stopping for a car on our right only to have them zip around left without an indicator. Its frustrating and illegal.

And finally, the top spot, number one annoying driving habit is drivers that fail to move over. They stay in the right-hand lane on motorways or dual lane roads and clog up the flow of traffic.

Yes, listeners there are a lot of bad drivers out there. That’s why a lot of caution and respect goes a long way for al of us to be safer drivers.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE BAD DRIVERS RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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We also took the Sport to the farm and drove around there for a few days.

It was cold out there, around 2 degrees, so the toasty seat warmers were appreciated. The full-time symmetrical AWD and X Mode ensured that the XT Sport handled the dirt roads, icy tar roads and around farm driving with ease.

On a particularly long stretch, I was in the car driving for seven hours and the cabin ergonomics and comfortable seats meant that I was relaxed and not tired when I arrived.

The more powerful engine in the XT responds beautifully to all situations. Economy was around 8.8L/100k for the time we had the vehicle.

The Outback XT Sport may miss out on a few cosmetic features of the Touring Model like sunroof and memory front seats but is well equipped and priced from $52,190 plus the usual costs its outstanding value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find full details about the Subaru Outback XT HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE SUBARU SPORT XT RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some quick thoughts about the Outback Sport XT 

• Sport XT sits below the Touring model and misses a few cosmetic, bling and convenience features.
• However, they aren’t really missed as it has all the safety and drive features you want.
• More power and torque are always a good thing
• Revised suspension means improved handling without compromising ride.
• It’s needed for greater towing performance.
• 2400kg is about best in class for towing.
• Over 1700km in the two weeks I had the Sport XT, and it was particularly comfortable, and relaxing to drive.
• Long distances were a breeze.
• The Autumn Green Metallic, or Olive as I call it, gathered quite a few comments from people. They seemed to really like it.

Also look at

The Outback crosses a few categories. full on AWD SUV, family wagon or city runabout.

Buyers could look to  Nissan Pathfinder, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-8, Skoda Kodiaq RS, Kia Sorento, 

As an alternative there is the Audi A4 All Road, Landrover Discovery Sport, Skoda Superb Scout AWD

Subaru Outback Sport XT Final thoughts’

Since the Outback XT introduction, it’s been a huge success. I’m a little confused how Subaru can offer such stunning value for money in  their models.

I am a fan of the Subaru Outback. The Outback XT is better.

The Outback Sport XT may miss out on a few cosmetic and bling features that the Touring model has. But it doesn’t really miss them.

It, however, is excellent value for money and perhaps the smarter buy.

The more powerful engine overcomes the shortfalls in the original Outback model. Its adequate but the XT is substantially better again.

You can buy a Subaru Outback XT and a decent all terrain camper trailer or hybrid van for about the same as a full 4WD in many instances.

For most people this will completely satisfy their adventurous spirit.

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There are three things that you immediately notice.

The first are the external changes, wider track, lifted suspension, better approach angles etc.

These second is that once you hop in and drive, the tightness of the suspension. It soaks up the little road bumps while feeling more in tune with road conditions. It also has more articulation and rebound dampening.

The third is the engine. That’s something you feel.

The extra power and torque, some 10% improvement, is immediately felt. Its how the HiLux should be. More responsive, more engaging more effective.

I drove the GR Sport over forest trails, rutted tracks and a specialised 4WD track run by the Canobolas 4WD Club. Throughout it all the GR Sport made it all look effortless.

Priced from a touch under $74.000 plus the usual costs the GR Sport is the best HiLux built so far.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Everything you need to know about the Toyota HiLux GR Sport, and more driving impressions,  can be FOUND HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE HILUX GR SPORT RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

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

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The 2008 is a beautifully designed, smaller SUV with typical French flair both inside and out. Its packed with luxury, comfort and safety features.

At the heart of the e-2008 is a 50 kWh lithium ion battery pack. This provides power of 100kW and torque of 260Nm.

The e-2008 has a relatively small capacity and that reflects in a WLTP range of only 328km. Range is obviously a subjective thing. It differs with driving styles and road conditions.

It also depends on perspective. If you only drive 50km a day and charge the car every few days, then its sufficient. If you want to do a longer drive of 600 or 700km then its problematic.

One good thing about the e-2008 is that PEUGEOT states that you can fast charge the battery all the time with no degradation. Many other brands don’t recommend that.

Driving the e-2008 was pleasant and engaging, on a drive through city traffic to Akuna Bay the national park.

Its relatively light weight, and with the weight down low the ride and handling were crisp and responsive. Electric cars provide instant torque and that also makes for a sporty drive.

One thing I liked was that PEUGEOT are offering a five year discounted service plan of only $1000. That’s an awesome deal and a reminder that electric cars still need regular servicing.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Everything you need to know about the Peugeot e-2008 can be FOUND HERE 

TO LISTEN TO PEUGEOT E-2008 RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some more Peugeot e-2008 articles

• PEUGEOT e-2008 SUV now available
• PEUGEOT e-2008 confirmed for 2023 Australian arrival
• Pre-orders commence for PEUGEOT e-2008:
• Peugeot e-2008 SUV coming soon

Also Look at:

Small to mid-sized Electric SUVs are becoming more common now.

Buyers could look at siblings, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ionic 5. Polestar 2, Kia Niro GT Line EV, Hyundai Kona EV.

Other options include:-  Volvo C40 Recharge, Mercedes Benz EQE,

Peugeot e-2008  Final thoughts

Peugeot build quality and interesting cars.

The 2008 is an elegant, stylish and slightly quirky smaller SUV.

The electric version e-2008 brings an all electric choice for buyers.

Ideal as a city runaround. Its relatively light for an EV and while it has a smaller battery capacity and range, the ability to fast charge every time without battery damage is a bonus.

The range may be an issue, but range is subjective. People will buy the Peugeot for its looks, style and quality and the range is accepted.

The fixed and pre paid service deal is also a bonus.

If you have to go EV this is a good way to go. Peugeot is for buyers that want something just a little different.

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A lot of this is filling existing back orders as supply is starting free up globally.

This is on the back of a record July as well.

Toyota is still the number one brand with twice as many sales as Mazda which is number two. The other top ten brands YTD are Ford, Kia Hyundai. Followed by Mitsubishi, MG, Tesla, Subaru and Isuzu Ute.

Of the top ten vehicles sold in August three were Utes, five were SUVs, one passenger car and one electric car. Toyota HiLux remains the top selling vehicle YTD.

SUVs account for about 56% of sales and are still growing. Light commercial vehicles about 22%, passenger cars about 18% and the rest in heavy vehicles.

Petrol remain the most popular fuel of choice followed by diesel. These two make up over 80% of sales YTD. Hybrid and PHEV vehicles are growing. Fully electric cars are about 7% Of YTD sales.

The interesting statistic is that Toyota is starting to turn around the sales slump as supply comes in. Also Tesla and MG are still sitting in the top ten brands.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE CAR SALES RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

More Car sales details

New vehicle sales achieved the highest August result on record as Australian customers took delivery of 109,966 new vehicles, a 15.4 per cent increase on the same period in 2022.

FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said back-to-back months of record-breaking new car sales was positive news for car manufacturers and consumers.

“The Australian automotive sector continues to demonstrate its strength, with August recording unprecedented sales figures, reflecting both a high level of demand from Australians and improved supply of vehicles.

“Year-to-date sales have increased 9.9 per cent which is a better indicator of the underlying strength of the market.” Mr Weber said.

Mr Weber added that electric vehicles accounted for 6.4 per cent of sales and hybrid vehicles accounted for 10.5 per cent of sales in August.

“As consumers continue to embrace low emissions technologies we are seeing growth in electric, plug-in and hybrid vehicle sales. More than 1 in 6 vehicles sold in the month of August featured low emissions technologies.”

Car Sales by State

Sales across every State and Territory increased this month compared with August 2022.   Australian Capital Territory sales by 21.5 per cent (1,713); New South Wales 13.6 per cent (34,655); Queensland 7.8 per cent (23,049); South Australia 21.9 per cent (6,952); Tasmania 14.4 per cent (1,843); Victoria 16.3 per cent (29,126); Western Australia 32.5 per cent (11,637) and Northern Territory 21.4 per cent (991).

Sales by Brand

Toyota was the highest selling marque with 22,321 sales. Mazda followed with 8,458 then Ford (7,898), Hyundai (6,513) and Kia (6,510).

The Toyota Hi-Lux was the top selling vehicle recording 5,762 sales.  It was followed by Ford Ranger (5,760), Toyota RAV4 (3,317), Isuzu Ute D-Max (3,281) and MG ZS (3,193).

Summary by Class:

• The August 2023 market of 109,966 new vehicle sales is an increase of 14,710
  vehicle sales or 15.4% against August 2022 (95,256). There were 26.8 selling days
  in both August 2023 and August 2022 and this resulted in an increase of 548.9 vehicle sales per day.
• The Passenger Vehicle Market is down by 661 vehicle sales (-3.3%) over the same month last year; the Sports Utility Market is up by 13,742 vehicle sales
  (28.3%); the Light Commercial Market is up by 1,559 vehicle sales (6.9%) and the Heavy Commercial Vehicle Market is up by 70 vehicle sales (1.7%) versus
  August 2022.
• Toyota was market leader in August, followed by Mazda and Ford. Toyota led Mazda with a margin of 13,863 vehicle sales and 12.6 market share points.

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