In a world that seems focussed on SUVs and Utes, these smaller cars  can sometimes get missed. They are ideal urban runaround vehicles.

The latest-generation safety technology upgrade is complemented by a number of other small equipment upgrades to provide added comfort and convenience for owners.

All models now use hybrid power. The same hybrid system powers the Yaris and Yaris Cross 2WD, combining a 67kW/120Nm 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a 59kW/141Nm front motor generator to produce a combined maximum power of 85kW.

All-wheel drive (AWD) versions of the Yaris Cross feature an additional 3.9kW/52Nm rear electric motor generator to provide additional traction in slippery conditions.

All three Yaris models gain a low-speed acoustic vehicle alert system that warns other road users and pedestrians when the vehicle might be moving using electric power.

The entry-level Ascent Sport grade now also features a parking support brake that automatically applies braking when reversing if it detects a crossing vehicle, object, or pedestrian and there is a risk of a collision.

The Yaris Cross SUV also receives updated driver assistance safety technology with all models having top safety features as standard.

Pricing for the Yaris ranges from $28,990 through to $34,590 plus the usual costs

Pricing for the Yaris Cross SUV ranges from $31,790 through to $39,930. All plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Yaris Cross – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Yaris Cross – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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The Fiat 500e is an interesting car. If you are going to have an urban electric vehicle, then this is ideal. Its small, nimble and fits almost anywhere in a parking spot in the city.

It’s also extremely popular amongst the style and fashion devotees.

The 500e has a 42-kilowatt hour battery that is good for a realistic range of about 280-290 kilometres. With a power output of 85 kilowatts its zippy but runs out of energy quickly. It is however definitely a one pedal driving style which takes a little getting used to.

Charging at an 85-kilowatt DC charger it will take about 35 minutes to get up to 80% charge. But doing it at home will take forever and the car isn’t supplied with a mode 2 charging cable.

Inside the 500e is simply laid out but well equipped.

The seats are comfortable, with manual adjustments but are heated. The eco leather tends to cling to your clothes a bit.

I like the large ten and a quarter inch central touchscreen. Its easy to use and read. Smart phone connectivity and charging is wireless.

Almost everyone that spoke to me about the car thought it was cute.

The Fiat 500e is priced from $52,500 dollars plus the usual costs.

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I’m Brianna Fraser

Listeners can find more information about the Fiat 500e HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Fiat 500e RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Fiat 500e buyers could look at.

Buyers could also look at the Peugeot e-2008 GT, Kia Niro EV, Hyundai Kona EV, MG4,  Lexus UX 300e, or the upcoming Polestar 4. 

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For those that don’t really know much about the Cupra brand, its an offshoot of VW. And the Leon is like the Golf.

Now the VZx model is the sports version with a healthy 221 kilowatts of power and 400 Newton metres of torque running through a seven-speed direct shift gearbox driving the front wheels.

Its reasonably quick at a time of 5.7 seconds from 0-100kmh. It also happens to be economical as well. This is a good combination.

What is more impressive is how it drives. It’s relaxed around town but transforms when asked. This is a car that is fun to drive. Its responds well and driver engagement is excellent.

Inside its comfortable and familiar to anyone that knows what a VW looks like. There are many shared parts. The flat bottom steering wheel feels great, and the sports style seats are supportive.

Rear seats are a bit tight and boot space is aimed more for two people.

The Cupra Leon VZx is priced from $65,690 dollars plus the usual costs. This is a few thousand dollars less than its VW sister. But the VW has a slightly different engine tune. Overall I really enjoyed the time in the Cupra. They have something different about them.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE CUPRA LEON VZX RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

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Mazda2 has been around for a while and despite the market moving away from this type of vehicle its still popular as a first car or urban runabout. It comes in a stylish hatch design and sedan

The car I had came in an Airstream Blue colour which many people liked. You can also coordinate the internal fascia to match.

Even though I am larger than the average bear and the Mazda2 is tiny, I found I was able to get comfortable.

The fabric seats were supportive and there was plenty of head room and leg room.

The internal layout was convenient with thick steering wheel, clear drivers’ instruments and 6 inch central screen Thanks fully this is both touch and dial controlled. But on wired Apple CarPlay its dial control only.

I did miss a central storage bin as an arm rest and an additional lumbar support would be good.

The Mazda2 comes with a 1.5L 4-cylinder motor and a choice of 6 Sp MT or AT. This reasonably zippy around town and cruises well on the motorway. Economy was about 5.0L/100 over the week.

I actually enjoyed the Mazda2 for the week. It was kind of cool to drive.

The Mazda2 is an ideal first car and is priced from around $22,400 through to $27,600 plus the usual costs.

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I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find out everything you need to know about the MAZDA2 HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE MAZDA2 HATCH RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Also look at

Small passenger cars are becoming scarcer these days. Buyers could look at: Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, Fiat 500, Citroen C3, Hyundai i20, MG3,

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Listeners can hear Motoring Minute segments around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

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

You can also find Motoring Minute segments syndicated through other news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

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