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

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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

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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, 

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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

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The CX-60 comes in a choice of three engines. A plug in Hybrid and inline 6 cylinder petrol and my favourite an inline six cylinder turbo diesel.

This provides some 187 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque driving all four wheels on demand through an eight speed sports automatic transmission.

I like the driving characteristics of this engine and its balance between performance and economy is excellent. I wish Mazda would put this engine in the BT-50 as an option.

The CX-60 has clean, conservative styling. With a high roofed rear end, it also allows practical internal boot space  and a high opening hands free tailgate.

Inside the Azami has all the luxuries you would expect as well as a premium ambience.

Front seats are especially comfortable  with heating and ventilation, electronic adjustment  and additional lumbar support for my aging back.

Overall, the revamped CX-60 is a genuine contender for buyers in the mid-sized premium SUV segment.

Pricing for the CX-60 Azami starts from $68,440 plus the usual costs. Given the premium competition that’s well priced.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Mazda CX-60 Azami – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Mazda CX-60 Azami – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mazda CX-60 Azami – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  CX-60 Azami could also look at the following: Lexus NX, Genesis GV70, Audi Q5, Peugeot 5008 GT,

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The H6 GT is the sport version of the popular H6 SUV. It’s styled in the same lines as  BMW X4 or X6. I actually really like the styling.

Inside its comfortable, and packed with little luxuries like heated seats, wireless charging tray, plenty of interior storage areas and electric tailgate.

One thing Haval seem to do well is create plenty of interior space. It seems to have more rear legroom than many other cars in this segment.

It comes with a 2.0L petrol engine, providing 150kW of power and 320Nm of torque. This drives through a 7 speed DCT and AWD. This is a good combination, and it drives nicely. Unfortunately the H6 T doesn’t come with a hybrid version.

The mixed feeling come from little niggles that detract from driving. The user interface for the infotainment system is frustrating and overly complicated at times. And some safety features are exceptionally intrusive. The cruise control that slows down in a slight bend is downright dangerous.

I can understand why they are popular. They look good, have a lot of bling and are well priced and that’s enough for many buyers.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Haval H6 GT Ultra HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Haval H6 GT Ultra RADIO SEGMENT, CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Haval H6 GT Ultra buyers could look at:

This size SUV is popular but the Sportback design sets it apart from most.

Buyers could look at the: Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Peugeot 3008 GT, Haval H6, Mitsubishi Outlander, Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail 

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Toyota hybrids are good. They have been doing them for a while now and vehicles like the RAV4 Hybrid are excellent.

The Cruiser comes with a number of comfort and safety features like heated and ventilated front leather seats, Smart phone mirror connectivity, powered tailgate and a 12 inch central touch screen.

At its heart is a 2.5L Hybrid petrol engine that is the same as in the Hybrid Camry. It has enough performance to feel spritely around town combined with excellent economy. We averaged around 6.0L/100K on test and that’s good.

The Hybrid Cruiser comes in either FWD or AWD. Take the AWD every time.

The Toyota RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid has everything. Its an ideal size for urban runaround as well as big enough for holiday trips and weekends away. Also, the hybrid technology combines better economy along with the convenience of no range anxiety.

Priced from around $54,400 plus the usual costs its also great value.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the RAV 4 Cruiser HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE RAV 4 Cruiser Hybrid RADIO SEGMENT, CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Toyota RAV 4 Cruiser Hybrid buyers could look at:

This size SUV as a hybrid or PHEV makes sense. It’s also an increasingly popular segment.

Buyers could look at the: Kia Sportage HEV GT-Line,  Mazda CX-60 Hybrid, Jeep Compass e-hybrid, Honda ZRV Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson, Haval H6 Ultra, Nissan X-Trail e-power,  Subaru Forester Hybrid, Peugeot 3008 GT PHEV,

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It has a somewhat edgy appearance with a boxy tailgate. It’s a look that grown on you.

Inside the layout is practical and comfortable.

I particularly like the heated front seats with electric adjustment for the driver and the vertical style central touch screen.

The driver feels at home with a thicker steering wheel and clever and different transmission lever.

Rear seats are spacious and comfortable. There is good rear leg and head room for this size vehicle. Boot space is equally spacious.

The XC40 B5 is powered by a mild hybrid 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine. There is reasonable power with 183 kilowatts and torque of 250 newton metres. This drives through an all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

At times around the suburbs, it felt a little slow to start with, but was smooth and easy to drive. Economy is rated at 7.2l/100k but we used around 10 litres per 100 kilometres around town.

The Volvo XC40 Ultimate B5 Dark we tested was priced at $69,690 including options, plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details on the Volvo XC40 HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE XC40 Ultimate RADIO SEGMENT, CLICK BELOW

Instead of the XC40 Ultimate buyers could also look at.

Smaller mid-size SUVs are seemingly everywhere now. The choice can be a bit daunting.

Buyers could look at the Audi Q3 Sportback, Citroen C5 Aircross Sport, Lexus UX, Peugeot 5008 GT, Subaru Outback XT, Citroen C5-X.

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There are two models available the SX front wheel drive and top spec model the GT Line all wheel drive. Obviously, the GT Line has a lot more features and luxury, but the SX comes well equipped.

The engine is a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid system. This is the same as what is in the  larger Sorento Hybrid. Given that the Sportage weighs less than the Sorento, the performance is better.

In fact, it’s quite zippy around town. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and makes driving easy.

Fuel economy was around 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres with a mix of everyday around town driving and some longer motorway trips.

Having a petrol hybrid in this size SUV makes a lot of sense. Its economical, better for the environment and there is no range anxiety. And it takes five minute to fill up.

It seems that pretty much every car Kia build is good and this is another example of them getting it just right

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Listeners can find more details on the 2024 Sportage Hybrid HERE  

TO LISTEN TO THE Sportage SX Hybrid RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Kia Sportage Hybrid buyers could also look at:

Mid sized hybrid SUVs are becoming popular.

Buyers could look at the Nissan X-Trail e-power, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Subaru Forester Hybrid, Peugeot 3008 GT PHEV, Hyundai Tucson, Haval H6 Hybrid and Honda HRV SUV

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