Its somewhere in the middle of the model range and top for the HEV models. So is cones well equipped.

First impressions is that, like many of us as we get older, we put on weight. The RAV4 is definitely getting bigger.

Externally it’s a design that has evolved over time. Stylish and practical. A few people commented n the new grill , not being fans.

Inside the RAV4 Cruiser is well laid out and comfortable. Being 190cm tall with long legs, I find the foot well slightly cramped, but overall, I fit easily.

There is a larger central screen, with excellent clarity. However, Toyota now has an annoying driver monitor system . It’s a pain having to remember to turn off the driver monitor, amongst other intrusive features every time you start the car.

Little features like wireless smart phone connectivity and charging tray, Heads u display and heated seats are appreciated. All RAV4’s come with the upgraded next generation of Toyota Safety Sense features.

As you would expect from Toyota the latest Hybrid engine is smooth, economical and has enough performance for everyday needs. I averaged around 5.3l/100km over the week across all driving conditions.

Pricing for the Toyota RAV4 Cruiser starts from $56,990 plus the usual costs.

Its easy to see why the RAV4 is so popular.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

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

TO LISTEN TO THE RAV4 Cruiser – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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, 

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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Priced from $38,140 plus the usual costs it has a lot going for it. Even though it has manual seat adjustments and fabric seats. It does however have electronic lumbar support, something my aching back appreciates.

The model update for the ST includes:

• Nissan’s Connected Car Services
• Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite
• 3-inch Infotainment Screen and
• Wireless Apple Car Play^>and Android Auto^> as standard.

With some design improvements the X-Trail looks reasonably stylish.

Inside its spacious for the class and reasonably comfortable.

Powered by the 2.5L 4 cylinder petrol engine. This provides 135 kW of power and 244Nm of torque. Driving the front wheels through a 7 step CVT.

Economy is claimed at 7.4l/100k but as we spent most of the week driving around town, we were quite a bit higher than that.

The X-Trail is also rated to tow 2000kg. But if you are looking to tow something, get the AWD version.

One advantage of being a five seat model is large boot space.

I mentioned that it is well equipped even though it’s the entry model.

Features include.

• 17 inch alloy wheels
• Automatic headlights with high beam assist
• rain sensing wipers.
• Heated external mirrors
• Two isofix attachment points and three top tether points for the second row seats.
• Rear air conditioning vents

Overall, the Nissan X-Trail ST 2WD model is neither exciting nor dull. It just does what is asked of it without fuss.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the X-Trail ST 2WD  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE X-Trail ST 2WD – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Nissan X-Trail ST 2WD – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in medium size SUVs is huge.

The X-Trail ST 2WD 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. 

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Inside, the comfort and little touches—especially in the Calligraphy model—are exactly what you’d hope for. That said, even the lower-spec versions are still really well equipped, which is great to see.

The front seats are both heated and cooled, with plenty of electric adjustments, so it’s easy to get comfortable no matter how long the drive (or how little sleep you’ve had!).

In the top-spec model, you also get twin wireless charging pads, which I found surprisingly handy—no more fighting over who gets to charge their phone.

I also love the one-touch power windows with an anti-pinch feature. It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference when you’ve got little ones in the car.

Another standout is how quiet it is inside, thanks to the acoustic glass. It’s almost whisper-quiet, which means you can play that all-important music or white noise softly to help bub drift off to sleep—without road noise getting in the way.

And of course, as mums know, having enough space for all the gear is necessary. The boot space is fantastic when you’re using it as a five-seater. That boxy shape really works in your favour—there’s plenty of room for the pram, bags, groceries, and everything else that comes with mum life. The tailgate opens nice and high too, so no bumped heads (even my husband fits comfortably underneath!). Packing everything in felt easy and stress-free.

If I had to pick, I’d go for the Calligraphy seven-seat all-wheel-drive hybrid. It really feels like the best of everything—space, comfort, efficiency, and all the features you could want.

It is starting to get up there in price, from around $77,000 plus on-road costs—but it does feel worth it for what you get.

This is a Motoring Minute.
I’m Brianna Fraser.

Previous Hyundai Santa Fe Motoring Minute reviews 

• Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 2
• Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 1
• Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy revisited for 2025
• Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander Hybrid 2023 Review

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

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.

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As you’d expect, the Santa Fe has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which is reassuring straight away. But it’s the everyday safety features that really stood out to me.

For starters, there are front and side curtain airbags that extend right through to the second row, helping keep bub nicely protected.

The driver display is clear and easy to read, and the controls for the main screen are simple to use without taking your eyes off the road—something you really notice when you’ve got precious cargo on board.

Parking is also much less stressful thanks to the sensors and the surround-view camera, which is a lifesaver in tight car parks (especially when you’re juggling kids and distractions).

One feature I really love is the blind spot monitor, which shows up right in the driver’s display when you indicate—super handy for lane changes. There’s also a warning if you go to open the door and a car is coming, which is such a thoughtful touch when you’ve got little ones in the back.

I also appreciate that things like the headlights, high beams, and even the wipers are automatic. It’s one less thing to think about, so you can stay focused on driving safely.

And honestly, part of safety as a mum is just having enough space to store everything properly. The boot space in the Santa Fe is fantastic when you’re using it as a five-seater. That boxy shape really comes in handy—there’s plenty of room for the pram, nappy bags, groceries, and all the extras. The tailgate opens nice and high too, so no bumped heads (even my husband fits comfortably underneath!). Packing up for the day felt really easy.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 1

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

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 Santa Fe – Baby duties week 2 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

It’s a brand-new model, and it really stands out on the road. The front is sleek, while the back has more of a boxy shape. I actually really like this look—and it turns out that boxy rear is super practical too.

There are three different versions to choose from, with the top model offering either six or seven seats.

You can also pick between two engines: a 2.5L turbo petrol or a 1.6L turbo petrol hybrid. Personally, I’d go for the hybrid—it’s a great mix of power for family road trips, while still being fuel-efficient for everyday mum life.

Inside, the Santa Fe feels really spacious and comfy. The front seats are lovely, but it’s the back that really shines for mums. The rear doors open nice and wide, making it much easier to get a baby seat in and out—or gently place a sleeping bub without too much hassle (a big win!).

It also comes with ISOFIX and top tether points for both the second and third row seats. So, you’ve got that extra peace of mind when it comes to safety.

Like most SUVs this size, the third row is better suited for occasional use rather than everyday seating, especially for older kids or adults.

We will chat more about the Sant Fe next week.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

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 Santa Fe – Baby duties week 1 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I recently drove the dual cab HiLux Workmate version. This comes in a single cab tray back as well as dual cab trayback and pickup style. I drove the pickup model.

The main difference is the redesigned grill and bonnet. It has divided opinions, but I like it.

Inside the new model benefits from:

• a 12.3-inch touchscreen,
• wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability,
• DAB+ digital radio.
• embedded satellite navigation and voice commands.

Further technology upgrades for WorkMate include:

• a new 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster,
• two USB-C ports,
• a 12V accessory port and two-speaker audio system

Toyota has also improved the standard safety features across the range. So, the WorkMate gets a boost there as well.

Powered by a 2.8L turbo diesel engine and 6 Sp AT. This provides a healthy 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque from 1600 rpm.

This is a substantial improvement over the previous model and is class leading for work Utes.

One feature that is appreciated is the tailgate dampers to assist with opening and closing.

There is still the issue of having no lower tie points in the tub like many brands.

Pricing for the HiLux WorkMate Pickup is from $53,990 plus the usual costs, which for a work Ute is a little expensive.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Hilux WorkMate  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hilux WorkMate – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Toyota Hilux WorkMate – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Hilux WorkMate  are in good company. There is a LOT to choose from.

Potential choices could be Mazda BT-50 ,  KGM Musso, FOTON Tunland, GWM Cannon, Mitsubishi Triton GLX, Nissan Navara SL,

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

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In other words, the most basic work Ute offered  by Isuzu. It’s priced from $32,490 drive away and that’s simply outstanding value.

The actual vehicle I drove has a few options added which took the price up to around $35,200 drive away

How is it you may ask. Well considering that as I get older, I like my space and little luxuries in my Utes. It’s been ok actually.

I can see a specific appeal for this vehicle. Especially for tradies that need  to carry bulk rather than weight.

Having said that the 2.55mtr long tray will fit most loads in it and the Ute has a 1400kg payload in manual version.

The issue here is that the 1.9L turbo diesel engine has only 110KW of power and 350Nm of torque available. It does struggle with a heavy load. I know this because I filled it with a load of recycled bricks and took then north on the freeway and it really struggled on hills.

Not everyone needs or wants a powerful diesel engine. The 1.9L Isuzu D-Max SX Cab Chassis provides a practical choice for workers that need basic Ute with a sterling reputation.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max SX   – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max SX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 100 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.

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This week I would like to chat about a different use. Certainly not conventional but practical.

I am renovating my rear garden. Digging out the old sleepers and replacing them with new garden beds. Also making some raised vege patches.

Now the huge tray on the Isuzu SX came in handy.

Having an old back, I’m not fond of bending. The tray was at waist height and large enough to take the full treated sleepers. This allowed me to construct the borders on the back of the tray.

The sides fold down for easy access.

The sides and the front of the tray form a perfect right angle for setting up the corners of the sleepers.

Not only did this make it so much easier to work, it also made it more accurate. On top of that it was faster, not having to get up and down all the time. My knees and back were extremely thankful.

Using the Isuzu D-Max SX Ute like this shows just how beneficial having a Ute can be.

Isuzu D-Max SX 2 Door 2WD 1.9L Ute is currently priced from $31,990 drive away

This is a Motoring Minute’

Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX SX RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max SX Optional extras:

Tow Bar Kit $1,132.25, 12-Pin Plug $393.25, Electronic Brake Controller $896.05, Economy Alloy Tray $0 (included in driveaway price), Rubber Mats $127.66 and has stamp duty for Accessories which comes to $127.66.

As Tested $34,670.88, as the vehicle has a driveaway special of $31,990.

Also look at:

There are not many Single Cab Cassis work Utes on the market at the moment Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market but everyone is aiming upmarket. Even getting our hands on some to test is difficult.

Buyers could look at Mazda BT-50, Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton.

Isuzu D-Max SX Final thoughts

Single Cab Chassis Work Utes are becoming a rare breed, with the push towards the premium end of dual cab’s.

While I always prefer more power and torque, the 1.9L diesel performed more than adequately.

It was ideal for around town work and cruised easily on the freeway.

You cant beat the price though. Its awesome value for money.

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

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