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.

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The post Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Mazda CX-80 comes in a choice of three models. The Pure, Touring, GT and Azami.

On top of that there are two option packs.

Each model comes with a choice of a 3.3 litre straight six petrol or diesel engine that has mild hybrid technology. There is a PHEV version available as well.

I’ve driven both and they have plenty of performance. The diesel is more economical and perhaps better suited for those that take longer drives. I found myself thinking that a full hybrid especially in petrol form would be better for urban driving.

All come with the same 8 speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive for when roads get wet or slippery.

Buyers of the entry level Pure  model won’t be disappointed as they come well equipped.

Being a narrower SUV than the CX-90 it is a little tight if you try to fit two adults and a baby seat in the middle row seats.

But for a family of four with even two baby seats its ideal.

Pricing for the CX-80 ranges from $62,700 through to around $87,950 dollars plus the usual costs.

Overall, the Mazda CX-80 is a safe and comfortable SUV that provides a level of comfort for new mums. Mazda CX-80 is mum and bub approved.

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 AZAMI SP AWD Baby duties week 3 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.

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.

As such it ticks the boxes for a new mum car.

To be specific we had the CX-90 B 8A G50E AZAMI TAKUMI AWD. This included the optional package with all white leather – perhaps not the best for babies, and captains’ seats in the middle row.

Wide opening doors allowed easy access for placing bub in the baby seat. Installing the baby seat is easy with 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.

Being the top model Mazda has every luxury, comfort, and safety feature in there that you could ask for. That’s comforting for families.

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 Mazda CX-90 Azami – HERE

You can download the full Mazda CX-90 Azami Brochure HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE Mazda CX-90 Azami – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Mazda CX-90 Azami – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers could also look at : Toyota Kluger, Nissan Pathfinder, Genesis GV80, Hyundai Palisade, Lexus RX

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-90 Azami . The big Mazda on baby duties week 1 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I had this compact hybrid SUV over the Christmas break.

Not only does it have stylish design, but its elegant interior is class leading.

I particularly liked the configurable 3D I-cockpit design. This raised digital dash and unique steering wheel suits my driving position perfectly.

There is a panoramic opening glass roof, 360 degree camera and classy 18 inch black alloy wheels.

Both front seats are heated, and the driver’s seat has an electric lumbar support and relaxing massage function.

Powering the 2008 GT is a 1.2L turbo petrol engine paired with a 48V hybrid system. It’s zippy around town and engaging to drive. I didn’t take it on a longer drive this time. That’s because the Air Conditioning wasn’t working and driving longer distances on 40 plus degree days didn’t seem like fun.

It is however economical and we got around 5.0l/100k over the time we had it.

The Peugeot 2008 GT Hybrid has an almost perfect blend of size, performance, and economy. It also brings an element of style and sophistication and has a premium ambience. At around $49,500 plus the usual costs its great value compared to its European rivals.

The Peugeot 2008 GT Hybrid is ideal for buyers that want something just a little bit different.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the 2008 GT Hybrid – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE 2008 GT Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Peugeot 2008 GT Hybrid – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the 2008 GT Hybrid could also look at the following: Audi Q3, BMW X2, Cupra Formentor, Lexus UX, Mercedes Benz GLA, MINI Countryman,

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

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The post Peugeot 2008 GT Hybrid review for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

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

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We headed up to the Blue Mountains in a Toyota LandCruiser Prado Kakadu. This model comes with all the little luxuries that makes a 4WD comfortable.

As it’s the middle of winter it was exceptionally cold. Heated front seats were appreciated as was the general cabin heating.

Its especially comfortable inside. You seem to just relax into the seats and there was plenty of room for me. Also there seems to be a place for everything. Wireless charging tray, large cup holders for the coffees and hot chocolates and a huge centre console bin.

Rear seats are spacious and come with two isofix and thee top tether points for bay seats. However the boot space is surprisingly limited with an intrusive hump, which apparently houses the hybrid battery.

I actually think it would be squashed to take a pram and all the baby gear needed. Given the size of the 4WD that’s a bit disappointing

The roads were icy and snowy so the Full time 4WD was a great safety feature.

The mild hybrid diesel engine has plenty of performance and the economy is excellent.

Prado Kakadu is priced from about $100,000 dollars plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Prado Kakadu – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Prado Kakadu – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers of the LandCruiser Prado Kakadu could also look at:

Buyers of the Prado Kakadu could also look at the following: Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X XT, Lexus GX, GWM Tank 500, Land Rover Defender, KGM Rexton, Nissan Patrol

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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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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