Carnival comes in a few different models with a choice of either a diesel or petrol hybrid engine. This time we have the GT-Line hybrid as our transport.

Well my memory of people movers as a kid is totally different to the modern Carnival. The GT-Line leaves nothing on the wish list. It is packed with luxury, comfort and safety features.

It was amazing to see just how easily the Carnival swallowed all our luggage. We took plenty of food with us as well, as we were there for four days. Along with that anyone that travels with a one year old knows just how much gear you need. Nappies, change gear, stroller, porta cot and more.

Once the luggage was packed we all jumped in. Again to see how easily everyone fitted was impressive. There aren’t many vehicles that can do what the carnival does. Especially with the same level of practicality and luxury.

Driving the hybrid engine version was easy and economical. We really didn’t notice the weight onboard.

Brianna has done a few segments on the Carnival as a baby and mum car, but as a full family car its first class all the way.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Full specifications can be found here for the Kia Carnival 

Readers can find more details  HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Carnival – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some other Kia Carnival segments

• Best new mum car – Kia Carnival Part 3
• Kia Carnival GT-Line HEV – search for the best new mum car part two
• Search for the best mum car part one – Kia Carnival GT-Line HEV
• Kia Carnival GT-Line – is this the best family car available
• Kia Carnival – Why it is so good for a family
• Kia Carnival GT Line driven to the Gold Coast

Instead – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Hyundai Staria, LDV Mifa, Ford Tourneo, GAC M9, VW Multivan

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

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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.

Inside, leather-appointed seats, twin 12.3-inch screens, and a panoramic roof. The back seat swallowed two adults and their gear without a complaint.

Here’s how it works. A 2.4-litre petrol engine, two electric motors, 221 kilowatts all up. The 22.7 kilowatt-hour battery gives 103 kilometres of electric range — so the school run, the shops and the commute all happen on electricity. Charge it overnight from an ordinary power point.

On the road it just coasts along nicely — smooth, quiet, with Australian-tuned suspension that irons out the bumps.

Five-star ANCAP. Up to ten years of warranty. All-wheel drive. From $71,640 before on-roads.

The Outlander PHEV. Electric savings, without the range anxiety.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Zac Hough

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Outlander Exceed  – HERE.

A full review of the Outlander PHEV can be found HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What other choices are there?

Buyers of mid-sized PHEV SUVs could also look at.

• Haval H6 PHEV
• Kia Sorento PHEV
• Skoda Kodiaq PHEV
• Mazda CX-60 PHEV
• Toyota RAV 4 PHEV
• Peugeot 3008 PHEV
• Jaecoo J7 PHEV

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 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – driven for economy. 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.

With the arrival of new models including its first-ever RAV4 plug-in hybrid, an all-electric HiLux and LandCruiser 300 Series performance hybrid.

In addition to the new powertrain offerings in current vehicle lines, it is also expanding its fully-electric SUV range with the bZ4X Touring now on sale alongside the upgraded bZ4X SUV.

Toyota now offers seven different powertrains across its entire Australian range to ensure it continues provide  Australian customers with the right vehicle, with the right powertrain that meets their needs.

The expansion of Toyota’s powertrain choice reflected the diverse needs of Australian motorists and will further drive its target to achieve 30 per cent of its total sales being zero and low-emission vehicles by the end of 2030.

Toyota has firmly been of the belief that there is no “one-size fits all’ when it comes to customer needs.

Along with Honda, Toyota was a pioneer of hybrid technology with the Prius way back in 2001. Toyota hybrid technology is now recognised as world leading as vehicles like the Camry Hybrid demonstrates.

Unlike a few brands that have gone all in on the EV trend and had to pull back again, Toyota has adopted a slowly- slowly approach that hindsight has proven to be prudent.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO  THE Toyota powertrain diversity – 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 Toyota powertrain diversity embraced to give choices to buyers. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Step inside, and it punches above its badge. A 14.6-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and a nine-speaker stereo, a class above what the price suggests.

Now the clever part. Plug it in and you get around 100 kilometres of electric-only range, enough to cover most people’s week without burning a drop. Run the battery flat and it’s still a frugal hybrid. It’ll even power your appliances with vehicle-to-load.

But here’s the thing. It’s beautifully smooth. The switch between electric and petrol is so seamless you barely notice it, quiet around town and settled at speed. And with all-wheel drive, there’s genuine pace on tap, though that’s a bonus, not the point.

Seven-year warranty. Eight years on the battery. From $45,990 drive-away.

The GWM Haval H6. An easy-going family SUV that just happens to barely see a petrol station.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Zac Hough

Readers can see the full specifications Haval H6 Ultra PHEV  HERE 

A full review of the Haval H6 Ultra PHEV can be found HERE.

 TO THE Haval  H6 Ultra PHEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Haval H6 Ultra PHEV – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the H6 Ultra PHEV are in unusual territory. The number of sedans is reducing with many crossover style vehicles moving into the space.

Potential choices could be.

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

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 PHEV driven for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Buyers can choose between a traditional petrol model or a fuel-efficient hybrid variant, depending on their driving preferences. The petrol range features a 2.0-litre horizontally opposed Boxer engine.  .

The Crosstrek Hybrid pairs the same Boxer petrol engine with an electric motor and battery system, improving fuel economy while maintaining responsive acceleration, particularly in urban driving conditions.

Both powertrains are matched to Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing seamless power delivery.

The Crosstrek is available in several model grades, with each offering increasing levels of comfort, technology, and convenience.

Standard equipment includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

While higher-specification models add premium interior materials, larger displays, wireless phone charging, and advanced driver assistance features.

Every Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with the company’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. Unlike part-time AWD systems that only activate when wheel slip occurs, Subaru’s permanent AWD continuously sends power to all four wheels, improving grip and stability in changing road conditions.

Selected models also feature X-Mode, which enhances traction on steep, slippery, or uneven surfaces.

This combination of efficient powertrains, capable AWD technology, and practical design makes the Crosstrek a well-rounded SUV for both city driving and outdoor adventures.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Subaru Crosstrek  HERE 

A full review of the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid can be found HERE

 TO THE Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid are in unusual territory. The number of sedans is reducing with many crossover style vehicles moving into the space.

Potential choices could be.

• Honda HR-V,
• Suzuki Vitara
• Nissan Qashqai
• Kia Seltos
• Hyundai Kona,
• Mazda CX-30 and
• Toyota Corolla Cross

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 Crosstrek Hybrid driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Im a big fan of the Peugeot 5008.

The model I drove is the GT Hybrid Premium which has a current price of $69,990 driveaway.

For what you get that’s actually really good value.

This includes:

• An elegantly designed European SUV
• Premium interior ambience
• Comfortable heated and cooled front seats with awesome multipoint massage function.
• Heated outer rear seats.
• 21 inch digital display
• Wireless smart phone connectivity and charging
• Panoramic opening sunroof
• A fuel efficient 1.5 litre petrol hybrid engine
• Outstanding fuel economy and over 1,000km range
• Seven seat capacity but it works better as a five seat SUV.
• Flexible seating allowing for maximum cargo capacity.
• Handsfree electronic tailgate opening

Driving the Peugeot 5008 is so smooth around town. Its like riding on a cushion of air. That is also helpful keeping bub asleep in the back.

As I’ve said many times just because you are a mum, it doesn’t mean that you cant be stylish. And the Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid has style in abundance.

Overall, the 5008 GT is Mum life upgraded.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid brochure can be found HERE 

Readers can find more details about the 5008 GT Premium Hybrid – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE 5008 GT Premium Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Previous Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid reviews

• Peugeot 5008 GT Premium Hybrid baby duties week 1
• Baby duties – Peugeot 5008 GT Premium Hybrid Baby duites week 2
• Peugeot 5008 GT Premium Hybrid Baby duites week 3
• Peugeot 5008 GT Premium Hybrid driven for 2026

Peugeot 5008 GT Premium Hybrid – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  5008 GT Premium Hybrid could also look at the following:

• Kia Sorento, 
• Hyundai Santa Fe,
• Toyota Kluger Hybrid
• Mazda CX-80, 
• Genesis GV70,
• Audi Q5 PHEV

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 Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid is it good for mum and bub. 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.