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.

One of its biggest strengths is interior space. The Kluger offers a roomy cabin with generous legroom and headroom across the first and second rows, making it easy to install and access baby seats.

Wide-opening rear doors simplify putting the baby seat and bub in the back seat. While the spacious layout provides plenty of room for prams, baby bags, and other family essentials.

Fuel economy is another standout feature of the Kluger Hybrid. Its petrol-electric powertrain delivers impressive efficiency for a large seven-seat SUV, helping families save money at the bowser while also reducing the number of fuel stops on long trips.

This makes it a practical choice for daily school runs, weekend outings, and family holidays.

Comfort is a key part of the Kluger’s appeal. The seats are supportive, the ride quality is smooth, and road noise is well controlled, creating a relaxed environment for both parents and children.

Passengers benefit from ample space and thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin, making longer journeys more enjoyable.

From a styling perspective, the Toyota Kluger Hybrid presents a modern and sophisticated appearance. Its bold front design, sleek body lines, and refined interior create a premium feel that suits family life without sacrificing visual appeal. Overall, it is a capable and family-friendly SUV.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Toyota Kluger Hybrid – HERE

You can download the full Toyota Kluger Hybrid Brochure HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Toyota Kluger Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Other Toyota Kluger Motoring Minutes

• Toyota Kluger GXL AWD Hybrid 2025 drive revisited
• Toyota Kluger Grande Hybrid – ideal for snow trips
• 2024 Toyota Kluger Hybrid Grande driven 2024 review

Toyota Kluger Hybrid – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could also look at a wide selection including: 

• Mazda CX-80
• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Subaru Outback
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Denza B5
• Isuzu MU-X
• Mitsubishi Outlander 
• Nissan Pathfinder,
• KGM Rexton,
• GWM Tank 500 Hybrid,
• Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid,
• BYD Sealion 8 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 Toyota Kluger Hybrid Grande takes on baby duties for the week. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Inside, classic Volkswagen done well. Sport seats with red stitching, a huge panoramic glass roof, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, and an augmented-reality head-up display. Even the pedals play along — a play symbol on the accelerator, pause on the brake.

Now the numbers. Dual motors, all-wheel drive — 250 kilowatts, 679 newton-metres, zero to 100 in 5.4 seconds. A 79 kilowatt-hour battery, up to 511 kilometres of range, ten to eighty percent in around 26 minutes.

On the road, one word. Planted. Stiff, meaty steering, a firm, glued-down stance, near silence as it builds pace. Hyper-competent — German efficiency made physical.

Five-year unlimited warranty. Eight-year battery cover. 533-litre boot. From around $73,990 drive-away.

The Volkswagen ID.4 GTX. Planted, refined, and beautifully built. Proof that this performance EV is all about polish over theatrics.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Zac Hough

Readers can find all the specifications for the ID.4 GTX HERE 

Readers can find the full review about the ID.4 GTX – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE ID.4 GTX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

VW ID4 GTX Motoring Minute Video Review

Volkswagen ID.4 GTX – Buyers could also look at:

Medium size BEVs are plentiful, but the competition is mainly from China.

Buyers could look at:

• Kia EV5
• Hyundai IONIQ 5
• Subaru Trailseeker
• DEEPAL SO7
• Genesis GV70 Electric
• Audi Q4 e-tron
• BYD Sealion 6
• Nissan Aryia
• XPENG G6
• LEAPMOTOR C10

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 The 2026 Volkswagen ID.4 GTX. GTI genes. Electric muscle. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Being the Azami model with the SP option pack, the CX-80 is packed with every conceivable comfort, luxury and safety feature.

It comes with a five star ANCAP safety rating, which is a good place to start and comforting for parents.

Apart from all the three letter icons you expect there are other features that I particularly appreciate. Things like

• Blind spot monitor in case I miss a car when changing lanes.
• See through surround monitor which allows you to see if there are toddlers about
• Driver attention alert, perfect for mums that may be sleep deprived.
• Adaptive cruise control, for keeping a safe distance from the car in front.
• Comfortable heated and ventilated seats with electronic adjustments to get that driving position just right and
• Wireless smart phone connectivity and charging

I’m not a fan of the rotary control dial for the central screen. I find I have to glance down and focus more than I’d like when scrolling through menus. Personally, I think a full touchscreen would be easier and more intuitive.

Overall, the level of safety in the Mazda CX-80 is reassuring for parents that are doing the best they can for their family.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the CX-80 Azami SP  – HERE

You can download the full Mazda CX-80 Azami Brochure HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Mazda CX-80 Azami SP– RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mazda CX-80 Azami – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could also look at a wide selection including: 

• Toyota Kluger,
• Nissan Pathfinder,
• Genesis GV80,
• Hyundai Palisade,
• Lexus RX,
• KGM Rexton,
• GWM Tank 500 Hybrid,
• Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid,
• BYD Sealion 8 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 Mazda CX-80 G40E AZAMI SP AWD Baby duties week 2 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.

For our first family getaway, we loaded the Toyota Prado with everything that comes with travelling with bub — the pram, bassinet, play mat, suitcases, toys, nappy bag and all the extras that somehow multiply overnight.

What surprised me most was the boot space.

At first glance, it didn’t look huge, and I honestly wasn’t sure everything would fit.

But once we started packing, the Prado swallowed it all surprisingly well.

Everything had its place, and we didn’t have to leave anything behind or play an intense game of luggage Tetris.

Cruising up the Motorway to Byron Bay proved effortless. The Prado is so smooth, with enough performance and economy to make driving easy.

We played nursery rhymes, which isn’t our usual choice of travelling music,  but it kept bub asleep. It’s a long drive, with a lot of breaks, but we felt relaxed and comfortable every time we stopped.

For a family holiday, that’s exactly what you want.

It made travelling with bub feel that little bit easier, and after a weekend away, the Prado definitely proved itself as a practical family SUV.

Its easy to see why Prados are so popular with families and gets the Mum and Bub tick of approval.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Motoring minute video reviews

Instagram reels on Toyota Prado GX and Baby Duties

• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVpPvWQTyZt/
• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVe74vojzi7/

Readers can find more details about the Prado GX  – HERE

You can download the full Prado GX Brochure HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Toyota Prado GX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Toyota Prado GX – Buyers could also look at:

There is strong competition with:

• KGM Rexton
• Isuzu MU-X 
• Ford Everest
• GWM Tank 500

Alternative SUVs include:

• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 508 GT Hybrid
• Mazda CX-70
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Subaru Outback
• VW Tayron

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 Prado GX on baby duties for a Trip to Byron Bay appeared first on Motoring Minute.

But step inside, and packaging is the whole point.

A flat floor, a floating console, reclining rear seats and a cavernous 513-litre boot — genuinely clever family space, with room left over. And refreshingly, Kia kept the physical buttons. Real toggles for your temperature and fan, alongside twin 12.3-inch screens.

On the road, it’s tuned for calm. The single motor serves up 160 kilowatts and 310 newton-metres — smooth and linear rather than urgent — while the supple suspension simply shrugs off our Australian potholes.

The 64-kilowatt-hour battery covers around 350 kilometres, enough for a week of school runs and commutes between charges.

Seven-year warranty. 67-litre frunk. From around $57,000 drive-away.

The Kia EV5. Not the flashiest electric SUV — just one of the smartest.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Zac Hough

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Kia EV5 Air – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia EV5 Air – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Kia EV5 Air – Buyers could also look at:

This is a growing segment with strong competition especially from Chinese brands. Some interesting  choices are: 

• Deepal S07
• Peugeot e-2008 GT
• BYD Sealion 5
• Cherry E5
• Hyundai IONIQ 5
• VW ID4
• Leapmotor C10
• MG4

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 Kia EV5 Air Standard Range driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This means that it has almost every bit of luxury and comfort Mazda can put in their SUVs.

Being designed for the European market the CX-80 has a refined style that is quite appealing.

It comes in a choice of 6 or 7 seats, and either will suit a mum and bub.

One thing I found annoying was the lack of a touch screen. Mazda persists with the dial control for the central screen, and it takes both time to use and your attention away from the road.

Other than that, there is certainly little to complain about . The level of comfort and luxury is what mums appreciate.

Installing the baby seat is easy with wide opening doors as well as 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.

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 CX-80 Azami SP  – HERE

You can download the full Mazda CX-80 Azami Brochure HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Mazda CX-80 Azami SP– RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mazda CX-80 Azami – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could also look at a wide selection including: 

• Toyota Kluger,
• Nissan Pathfinder,
• Genesis GV80,
• Hyundai Palisade,
• Lexus RX,
• KGM Rexton,
• GWM Tank 500 Hybrid,
• Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid,
• BYD Sealion 8 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 Mazda CX-80 G40E AZAMI SP AWD Baby duties week 1 appeared first on Motoring Minute.