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    

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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.

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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

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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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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

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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. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

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A new entrant is coming soon. The Chery Stockman. They derived the name from a National competition where more than 20,000 suggestions Australians across the country were submitted.

Responses from motorists, tradies, families, Ute enthusiasts and regional communities nationwide.

Following an extensive review and public voting process, ‘Stockman’ emerged as the winning name.

I have to say its kind of a cool name and very Australian.

We don’t know much about the Stockman yet. Based on overseas information it will arrive with a 2.5-litre PHEV diesel engine producing 260kW of power and 680Nm of torque combined. It will have over 100km of EV only range and operate as a normal hybrid otherwise.

It is safe to say it will have a 3500kg towing capacity and over 100kg payload. Along with that, It will also have dual range 4WD capability along with front and rear diff locks.

With the GWM Cannon Alpha and BYD Shark 6 also having over 100 km EV range, they make the Ford Ranger PHEV claimed 50km range look a bit pathetic really.

Further details, including specifications, pricing and launch timing for Stockman, will be announced closer to market introduction.

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Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Chery Stockman – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Chery Stockman – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Chery Stockman – Buyers could also look at:

This is a growing segment with competition form a few brands. Some of the better choices are:

• BYD Shark 6
• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV
• JAC Hunter PHEV Ute
• Ford Ranger PHEV

Other Utes include.

• FOTON Tunland mild hybrid
• KGM Musso
• LDV Terron 9
• MG 9

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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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I do like the design, one that has evolved over the years. Inside the first impression is spaciousness.

It’s also well-equipped along with option packs that add even more features.

The front seats are especially comfortable and supportive.

Driver ergonomics are excellent.

Rear seats have plenty of knee, leg and shoulder room. Boot space again is large, capable of swallowing a family’s luggage.

The key point is the PHEV powertrain.

The Škoda Kodiaq Select PHEV delivers 150kW of power and 350Nm of torque. From its combination of a 1.5 TSI engine and 85kW/330Nm electric motor.

The combination drives the front wheels through a 6 Sp DSG transmission. While it zippy it’s not a sports SUV with 0-100km/h in 8.4 seconds.

The claimed EV only range is 112km. But we didn’t see anything over 100km.

Customers can select E-mode electric drive or hybrid drive options in the vehicle touchscreen, with a choice of low, high or automatic brake energy recuperation.

Additionally, there are two battery power usage methods – automatic, with engine recharging and manual that waits until the vehicle is plugged in.

Pricing from $63,490 plus the usual costs is quite reasonable.

Overall, the Kodiaq PHEV offers the benefits of EV only driving without the range anxiety.

This is a Motoring Minute’

Im Rob Fraser

Skoda Kodiaq Select PHEV Motoring Minute Video Review

Readers can find more details about the Kodiaq Select PHEV – HERE.

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Kodiaq Select PHEV – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Kodiaq Select PHEV are in an unusual segment. There are a few to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Kia Sorento PHEV, Peugeot 408 PHEV, Jaecoo J7 PHEV

HEV alternatives could include: Mazda CX-70, Mazda CX-60, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid,

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For the YTD EV sales are around 13% of sales. I still believe that at year end they will be 9-10%

This surge is driven by three factors.

• Higher petrol pricing simply because successive Australian governments have failed to secure adequate supplies of local refined fuel.
• Continued government incentives for EV purchases with the electric car discount
• The ridiculous NVES legislation starting to penalise and affect manufacturers.

All three of these factors show extremely poor government policy, that ultimately you and I, the taxpayers will pay for.

Currently there are around 110 EV models available for sale. With more brands and models joining almost every month.

The problem with increased EV sales is everything that revolves around that.

Yes, EV have zero localised driving emissions. However, to produce them they are worse that normal vehicles.

Also increased EVs mean more charging infrastructure is needed, and Australia is lagging in that respect. Our vast distances will always be a problem. Inner city is a different issue.

On top of that charging cars consumes electricity at a rate that is frightening.

Given the increasing reliance of wind and solar power, Australia is incapable of meeting that demand.

As usual successive governments have proven to be short sighted in their policy making and again we the taxpayer will be affected.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

 Readers can find more details about the Car Sales  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Car Sales  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Well, BYD, hoping to expand the appeal have just announced two additional models.

A trade ready Shark 6 Dynamic Cab-Chassis and a new range-topping Shark 6 Performance pickup.

These will sit alongside the existing Shark 6 Premium pickup.

The designers expanded the line-up to meet the needs of trade, fleet, and Aussie families.

They offer superior Dual Mode (DM) Super Hybrid performance, improved all-wheel drive capability, and refined on-road comfort.

Ironman is developing an optional tray for the trade ready cab chassis.

The new 2.0-litre turbo DM Super Hybrid in the Shark 6 Performance boosts total system power and torque to 350kW and 700Nm, respectively. That will allow a 3500kg towing rating.

Shark 6 customers benefit from three intelligent driving modes.

• EV Pure Electric Mode: the petrol engine is switched off.

• HEV Series Mode: the petrol engine does not drive the wheels. Instead, it acts like a portable power station.
• HEV Parallel Mode: The motors and the petrol engine work together in harmony to drive the wheels at the same time.

With 6.6kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability and multiple 230V outlets (one in-cabin, three in the tub) plus a V2L adaptor adding two more sockets, Shark 6 can power tools, appliances and camping gear on the go.

Pricing is from $55,900 through to $62,900 plus the usual costs.

This s a Motoring Minute

Im  Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the BYD Shark 6  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE BYD Shark 6 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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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. 

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A traditional hybrid like the Toyota Camry uses regenerative braking and its petrol engine to recharge a small battery. The main benefit is convenience: drivers never need to plug in, and fuel efficiency is significantly better than a conventional car.

Hybrids are especially efficient in city driving, where stop-and-go traffic allows frequent energy recovery. They also tend to cost less upfront than plug-in hybrids and require no changes to driving habits. However, their electric-only range is very limited, meaning they still rely heavily on fuel and cannot operate for long without emissions.

In contrast, a plug-in hybrid such as the Mitsubishi Outlander  has a larger battery that can be charged from an external power source. This allows drivers to travel moderate distances—often 50 to 70 km—on electricity alone.

For short daily commutes, a PHEV may use little or no petrol, reducing fuel costs and tailpipe emissions. The downside is higher purchase price, increased vehicle weight, and the need for regular charging access. If not charged consistently, a plug-in hybrid may offer little advantage over a regular hybrid.

Ultimately, hybrids prioritize simplicity and efficiency, while plug-in hybrids offer greater electric capability but require more commitment and infrastructure.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Hybrid Electric Vehicles vs Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles 

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