One of its key technologies is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist system, which uses cameras to monitor the road ahead.

It includes.

• pre-collision braking,
• adaptive cruise control,
• lane departure warning,
• lane centring and
• emergency lane keep assistance.

The system can also recognise pedestrians and cyclists and assist with avoiding or reducing the severity of collisions.

The Forester Hybrid also includes Vision Assist features such as

• blind-spot monitoring,
• lane-change assist,
• rear cross-traffic alert and
• reverse automatic braking.

A driver monitoring system can warn the driver if signs of distraction or drowsiness are detected.

Rear cross-traffic alert is one of the best safety features in recent years. It can help when reversing by warning the driver about vehicles approaching from the side.

There are also several airbags around the cabin, including front, side and curtain airbags, which provide protection during a crash.

Its ring-shaped passenger safety cell is designed to help protect the cabin during a collision. The vehicle also features ABS, electronic stability control and traction control.

The Forester Hybrid also uses all-wheel drive, which can provide better grip on different road surfaces.

Overall, the Subaru Forester Hybrid combines safety technology, and strong protection features to help make driving safer for everyone.

Priced from around $46,500 plus the usual costs it represents outstanding quality for the price.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications of the Subaru Forester Hybrid HERE.

You can find the full Subaru Forester review  HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Subaru Forester Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers could also look at:

This is becoming a very popular segment.

Buyers of the Subaru Forester Hybrid could also look at the following:

• Kia Sportage, 
• KGM Torres Hybrid
• Haval H6 Hybrid
• Toyota RAV 4 HEV
• Honda CRV, 
• Nissan X-Trail, 
• Hyundai Tucson, 
• Mazda CX-5, 
• Peugeot 3008, 
• Jaecoo J7
• VW Tiguan

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 Forester Hybrid Touring driven for 2026 week two. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Forester comes in a choice of two engines 2.5 L boxer engines. One a normal petrol and the other a hybrid. Model choices include four petrol and three hybrid versions.

We have just spent a couple of weeks in the top spec hybrid Touring model, and I have Ive come away really impressed.

The new Forester looks the goods. Strong design combined with practical features.

Hybrid fans will be happy. The 2.5 litre e-boxer engine has a lithium ion hybrid battery. Total output is a handy 135kW of power and 276Nm of torque. This drives all four wheels through an Electronically Controlled AWD Coupling and Lineartronic CVT.

Fuel economy is excellent and we averaged 6.4l/100k over the two weeks which included a mix of driving conditions. It’s not s sports SUV but has more than enough power delivery to keep most drivers happy.

It’s also an ideal small family SUV with room for two rear child seats with isofix and top tether points. The boot shape also allows plenty of room all the baby gear.

A Five Star ANCAP safety rating provides peace of mind for owners. However, that only tells half the story. The Forester is one of the safest vehicles on the road. We will chat more about that next week.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications of the Subaru Forester Hybrid HERE.

You can find the full Subaru Forester review  HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Subaru Forester Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers could also look at:

This is becoming a very popular segment. Buyers of the Subaru Forester Hybrid could also look at the following:

• Kia Sportage, 
• KGM Torres Hybrid
• Haval H6 Hybrid
• Toyota RAV 4 HEV
• Honda CRV, 
• Nissan X-Trail, 
• Hyundai Tucson, 
• Mazda CX-5, 
• Peugeot 3008, 
• Jaecoo J7
• VW Tiguan

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 Forester Hybrid Touring driven for 2026 week one. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Under the bonnet? A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol hybrid. 179 kilowatts, 530 newton-metres, and just 5.7 litres per hundred k — that’s over a thousand kilometres of touring range.

But here’s the thing. It drives like a cruiser. Punchy off the line with the electric motor doing the work, quiet, composed, and brilliant at soaking up our Australian roads.

Five-star safety. A seven-year warranty. And it undercuts the Qashqai and the RAV4 on price. From around $46,990 drive-away.

The GWM Haval H7. It dares to look different, and it’s got the substance to back it up.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Zac Hough

Readers can find a detailed review of the  Haval H7– HERE

You can download full specifications for the Haval H7 HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Haval H7– RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Haval H7– Buyers could also look at:

Mid-sized hybrid SUVs are very popular. Buyers of the Haval H7 could look at :

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

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 Haval H7. Big, boxy, and completely unbothered by what the neighbours think. 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, 

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 We drive the Toyota RAV4 Cruiser AWD SUV 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.

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.

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

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 RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid 2wd driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

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.

The post Hyundai Santa Fe – baby duties week 3 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

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.