CAR ADVICE

Ferrari’s first plug-in hybrid supercar – the SF90 Stradale, powered by three electric motors and a twin turbo V8 – has already sold out even before the final price is known. A group of about 25 Australian VIP customers attended the unveiling earlier this week at a lavish event in Ferrari’s home town of Maranello, Italy. It’s believed they all signed up for a car on the spot, selling out the entire allocation for Australia.

Ssangyong is only on track to sell around half its initial target after 12 months of business, after re-launching in Australia with the Musso, Rexton and Tivoli in 2018. Ssangyong Australia boss Tim Smith was shy about sharing numbers, but said figures be officially on the VFACTS industry report at the end of May. That target was 3000 vehicle sales in a 12-month period, but a number closer to 1500 now looks more likely.

Jaguar Land Rover has taken a regular, everyday heated steering wheel and turned the technology on its head. Rather than roasting your palms on a chilly morning, the Sensory Steering Wheel uses two heating elements to tell drivers when and where to turn. Developed alongside Glasgow University, the wheel has elements on both sides of the wheel capable of warming or cooling its section by six degrees. Driver would be able to control how warm the wheel gets, if that's too much.

Amongst the range of 4x4 utes available in Australia, Volkswagen’s Amarok is probably the most different and unique. It goes about its own agenda from a different point of view compared to the (mostly) Japanese-branded competition. While the Amarok’s sales volumes aren’t big compared to the leaders in the segment, Volkswagen has managed to wrangle a dedicated and enthusiastic following of buyers to its brand.

Hyundai Motor has revealed its aptly-named Electric Double-Decker Bus, which is being shown at the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Technology Fair in South Korea. Developed to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, the all-electric people carrier has seating for up to 70 people – 11 on the first floor and 59 on the second – which is 1.5 times as many passengers as a regular bus in Korea.

Ssangyong's new long-wheelbase Musso XLV has been priced for Australia, kicking off at $33,990 in base ELX manual guise. The company has boldly claimed it wants to take on the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux with the XLV, which has a longer tray (+310mm) and wheelbase (+110mm) than the regular Musso. That means the bed measures 1610mm long, 1570mm wide and 571mm deep, for 1262L of capacity.

Ssangyong’s presence – and workhorse range – in Australia gets a shot in the arm with the arrival of the long-wheelbase Musso XLV. Take a regular Musso, add 110mm to the wheelbase and 310mm of overall length, and you’ve got yourself an XLV. The Musso XLV comes with introductory pricing that mostly apes its smaller, shorter sibling. There is drive away pricing across the range, kicking off at $33,990 for the manual XLV ELX. Opting for an automatic costs $35,990.

Cadillac has unveiled its latest V-Series cars, the CT4-V and CT5-V, as it puts AMG 43 and BMW M Sport models in its sights. And no, don't hold your breath for them in Australia. Unlike some previous 'V' cars (think CTS-V and ATS-V) the hotted-up CT4 and CT5 aren't rivals for full-flight BMW M and Mercedes-AMG cars. There's no V8 engine, and no manual gearbox.

Tesla fans, the wait is over. As of right now you're able to configure and order a Model 3 for delivery in Australia, more than three years after reservations opened. Reservation holders, some of whom lined up overnight in March 2016 for their place in the queue, will get their cars first, but anyone keen on a Model 3 can place an order as of now.

McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has revealed a new aerodynamic pack for the 570S supercar, which should make the already-capable exotic carve corners that little bit better. Dubbed the MSO Defined High Downforce Kit, the new option pack for the Sports Series variant increases downforce and enhances the aesthetics – though the latter is entirely subjective.

This week you're joined by Scott Collie, Paul Maric, and Kez Casey. In car news, the 2020 Ferrari SF90 Stradale has been unveiled, the 2019 Volvo S60 and V60 have been priced, Jaguar Land Rover says a Coalition election win was the 'best result we could have hoped for', and the Jeep Wrangler has received a one-star ANCAP safety rating. We speak to Curt Dupriez, who is comparing the 2019 Subaru Forester and Outback.

Guys and girls, I’ve got a favour to ask – can we forget five-door Minis? Please? Thanks. The 2019 Mini Cooper S 60 Years on test here, in three-door guise and painted British Racing Green, is exactly the way a retro Mini should be sampled. Anything else is a travesty. 

The PSA Group currently lacks a flagship sedan to rival the Germans. In markets like China, that's like playing gridiron without a quarterback. Now the French alliance has its DS premium arm, it appears it finally has a 5 Series and E-Class fighter on the way, at least according to these leaked images from a Chinese product presentation posted to a French online forum.

Production of the Jaguar XJ will end on July 5 at the company's Castle Bromwich factory in Birmingham, England. A spokesperson confirmed the flagship sedan's demise to Jalopnik, but added Jaguar will "continue the XJ nameplate and will use its renowned engineering capability and technological innovation to ensure its longevity". The current XJ was revealed back in 2009, and marked the end of the model's retro styling era, which was began in 1994.

Although Nissan has in the past reportedly rebuffed plans to merge with Renault, the Japanese automaker looks unlikely to push back on the proposed merger between Fiat Chrysler (FCA) and Renault. "Overall, we don't see any particularly negative aspect," Hiroto Saikawa (below), Nissan's CEO, told reporters, including those from Reuters, after a meeting of the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance board.

The eighth-generation Chevrolet Corvette will be a radical departure from all of its predecessors, especially under the skin where everything is all new. Sources have told Muscle Cars and Trucks the new Corvette will use a new encrypted electronic control unit (ECU). While encrypted ECUs aren't new, the eighth-generation Corvette will also debut GM's new CAN bus electrical platform, which prioritises cybersecurity.

Fiat has recalled a trio of 2018 and 2019 500s, over concerns the drive axle could break. According to the company, a 'nonconformity' with the production process is to blame. If the axle breaks while the car is moving, there's a risk the issue will cause an accident, posing a risk of injury to the driver and other road users. As previously mentioned, three cars are included in the recall – a VIN list is attached here.

The all-new 2019 Toyota HiAce van is now on sale in Australia. To see if it has what it takes to live up to the legend of its predecessor, Paul Maric takes a drive.

It's a long time between drinks – a full 15 years – but Toyota has finally taken the wraps off the all-new 2019 HiAce van and it's surprisingly really good. Prior to the last of the previous-generation HiAce finding a new home in Australia, Toyota will have delivered over 335,000 HiAce vans and buses to Australian customers since it originally went on sale. Despite its age, the HiAce also regularly held the top sales spot in a segment where its competitors had well and truly moved on.

The Australian launch of Volkswagen’s vital new eighth-generation Golf has been pushed back by around 10 weeks, with the expected arrival time from its German factory now the fourth quarter of 2020. The news is contrary to what VW told us in March, after news emerged that the Mk8’s global rollout was being nudged back as its maker perfected the highly digitised and fully connected cabin. Better to be a bit late but ‘right’, than on-time and flawed, you might say…

Buick has revealed the all-new 2020 Encore GX for North America, ahead of its sales launch in the region early next year. The Encore GX is a larger version of the ageing American-market Encore, slotting under the larger Envision and Enclave SUVs already offered in the US line-up. We've already seen this model debut for the Chinese market, but the US version could given an indication as to what could replace the current Holden Trax in Australia.

Chevrolet has continued its rollout of good-looking SUVs we're unlikely to see in Australia, overnight revealing the Trailblazer to sit between the Trax and North American-only Blazer. With looks inspired by the Blazer, the Trailblazer is designed to slot between the mid-sized Equinox (which is bigger than rivals like the CX-5 and Sportage) and compact Trax in the Chevrolet range.

Infiniti will leave its current Hong Kong headquarters by the middle of 2020, and relocate to Yokohama, Japan, alongside its Nissan parent. Infiniti says rejoining the mothership will make the brand better integrated into Nissan's design, research and manufacturing systems. It also believes the move will result in "more operational efficiencies by sharing architecture, technologies and back-office functions", which should help it compete in a "hyper-competitive, disruptive industry".

The facelifted 2020 Lexus RX has been revealed, ahead of its Australian introduction during the fourth quarter of 2019. Design revisions include slimmer headlights, which are now available with blade-scan technology for the auto high-beam function that is claimed to be much quicker than current systems – also said to be a world-first – and subtle updates the the sheetmetal, which includes "revised character lines" and new bumpers front and rear.

Volvo has priced its BMW 3 Series-fighting S60 sedan and V60 wagon for Australia, ahead of the sedan's arrival in August. The mid-sizers will be available in three trim grades, split across two powertrains: the turbocharged 'T5' 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol, making 187kW of power and 350Nm of torque, and the 'T8' Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, which makes a combined 311kW and 680Nm from its four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor.

Kia's new compact SUV, previously thought to be called the Tusker, has officially been given a name. Snapped by Autoblog (which got the drop on the spy photos, well done guys) during what looks like a marketing photoshoot in the USA, it appears the new sub-Sportage crossover will be badged Seltos. As with the sketches released earlier this month, the images confirm the production car will look a lot like the SP Signature Concept unveiled in Seoul earlier this year.

Volkswagen Australia has announced details for the Polo 85TSI Style, which serves as the new top-spec variant of the core range – discounting the GTI hot hatch, naturally. Priced from $24,990 before on-road costs, the Polo Style is DSG only, and brings a range of equipment and features that were previously optional or not available on the local range.

Volkswagen Australia has re-introduced entry grade 110TSI versions of its Tiguan mid-sized SUV, effectively lopping $9000 from the price of entry to the range. For the previous nine months the Tiguan range has kicked off with more powerful and highly specified 132TSI all-wheel drive grades priced from $43,150 before on-road costs.

With the SF90 Stradale, Ferrari has answered the EU’s tightening emission standards by releasing a car which not only meets all their present and future regulations, but also happens to be the most powerful and fastest road car the company has ever built.

Ahead of the unveiling of the third-generation Bentley Flying Spur on June 11, European time, the luxury car maker has released more details and new photos of a partially disguised prototype undergoing testing. In addition to featuring all-wheel drive and dynamic ride control, the new sedan will also be available with four-wheel steering.

It’s arguably the most important vehicle in Range Rover’s line-up. Yes, the eponymous Range Rover is the flag-bearer for the brand, its hulking presence a feature on the type of streets of the monied enclaves home to such vehicles. But it’s the baby of the family, the Range Rover Evoque, driving sales for the brand, with over 17,000 finding homes since the launch of the first-gen in 2011.

The facelifted Holden Commodore has been spied in wagon-bodied Opel guise during hot weather testing in Europe, ahead of an anticipated reveal later this year. Sold abroad as the Insignia under the Opel and Vauxhall brands, the updated Commodore still wears heavy camouflage at the front and rear to disguise the upcoming design changes.

The Hyundai Kona Electric costs $64,490 before on-roads. It's a lot, especially given its bones are shared with a petrol-powered car priced from $23,500 before on-road costs. Does the interior stack up at that price point? The short answer is depends on how you look at it.  There are some meaningful differences on hand to make the Electric feel a more special than a normal Kona. Standard equipment is generous – given it's the Highlander, our tester comes with everything in Hyundai's kit bag.

Tony heads to Wales for a first spin, on the track no less, in Bentley's beastly new SUV flagship, the Bentayga Speed. Catch the full story and piccies at the link above.

To anyone on the outside, it would seem utterly ludicrous to roll up to the notoriously tight Anglesey race circuit, smack-bang on the edge of the Irish Sea, to flat-out-pedal one of the largest and most luxurious SUVs on the planet. Here in Wales the locals would surely say it’s totally bonkers. And, nine times out of 10 they’d be dead right. Except, this isn’t the standard Bentley Bentayga (which isn't exactly slow either) we’ve come all this way to sample.

“Do you remember the ’85 Ford Spectron mate?” Might seem like a strange question to most of you but my mate Damien - hot rod builder, qualified panel beater, visionary and confidante when it comes to frivolous, nonsense car purchases - calls me often with similar discussion starters.

Audi Australia has issued a recall for 2018 and 2019 model-year A3 sedans over concerns the rear centre head restraint may lack a locking pin. The company reports a processing error during production is behind the issue, which may see the rear centre seat detach from the guide pins in the event of an accident.

BMW is preparing a new curved display for its 2021 iNext technology flagship, as it looks for new ways to create 'driver-oriented' interiors in the age of widescreen displays. The company says the "single-section display surface creates a particularly harmonious effect, lending additional visual emphasis to the ergonomically optimised controls". In real-world speak, that means it should be a slicker, cleaner way to deliver all the information currently shown across two (or more) displays.

The electric Mini Hatch has been spied pretty much devoid of camouflage this week in the US, ahead of its official debut later this year. Unofficially dubbed the 'Mini Cooper S E' – a similar naming structure to the plug-in hybrid Countryman – the first series production all-electric Mini looks very much like the regular 3 Door Hatch with tacked on bits from the 2017 Mini Electric concept.

Formula E has already hit some of the world's biggest, most exciting cities. London, Paris, Shanghai and New York have all hosted races, but there's no Australian event on the calendar. Yet. That would change if Allan McNish, three-time Le Mans winner and Audi's Formula E team principal, gets his way. Apparently "there's been discussions" about a race Down Under, but nothing has happened yet.

Around 180 police, tax officials and state prosecutors have raided offices across Germany as part of investigations centred around Porsche. In a statement to the media, including Agence France Presse, prosecutors said they believe "an official from the Stuttgart business audit office revealed confidential information to a tax advisor of Porsche AG and accepted benefits in exchange".

The brand MG as we know it today has come a long way since its inception in 1924. MG, which is now owned by Chinese company SAIC, was founded in the 1920s with the initials standing for Morris Garages. It began life as a sports car manufacturer and as a sales promotion within William Morris's Oxford city retail sales and service business. During its glory days the brand produced plenty of memorable two-seat open sports cars as well as saloons and coupés.

MG Motor Australia has revealed pricing for its updated ZS SUV, which has gained a new mid-range 'Excite Plus' variant for 2019. The compact Chinese rival to the Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V kicks off at $22,990 drive-away in base 1.5L Excite guise, jumps to $24,990 in 1.0L Excite Plus trim, and tops out at $26,990 drive-away for the Essence 1.0L.

The next-generation Skoda Octavia wagon has been spied with very little disguise this week, ahead of its debut in Frankfurt later this year. Despite already straddling the small and medium segments, the Octavia looks set to grow even larger than the current model, most likely to give more space to the new Scala hatchback. The Octavia will ride on a revised version of the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform, set to underpin the next-gen versions of the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf.

Jaguar Land Rover Australia believes consumer confidence has returned to the luxury car market following the recent Federal election, where the sitting LNP government was returned to power. Speaking to local media at this week’s launch of the new Range Rover Evoque, JLR Australia managing director Mark Cameron said the conservative coalition victory has already been felt in the company’s showrooms.

BMW has revealed its rejigged X1, headlined by subtle design revisions and updated powertrains, including the option of a new plug-in hybrid variant that will launch globally next year. From the outside, the updated X1 gets new LED daytime-running lights and bumpers that bear stronger resemblance to the company's larger SUV models like the X3 and X5, along with new LED fog-lights and a larger double-kidney grille which are now merged in the centre.

Ferrari has published two official teasers ahead of hybrid supercar's launch on May 29, European time. The teasers provide clues to the design of the new model's front and rear ends. Judging by the spy photos, Ferrari's first "mainstream" hybrid model will be a two-seat model possibly based on the F8 Tributo. The prototype's design indicates it will have a petrol engine located behind the passengers and driving the rear wheels.

Renault could respond to the "transformative merger" offer from Fiat Chrysler (FCA) as early as next week. Sources have told Reuters the Renault board will likely decide next week whether to proceed with the merger proposal. Should the French automaker green light FCA's proposal, it will sign a non-binding agreement and enter formal negotiations on the details of a full merger between the two car companies.

What appears to be a road-going version of the Alpine A110 GT4 has been snapped during testing, but exactly what role it'll fill in the range remains to be seen. Our spy photography agency snagged these pictures at the same time as the Renault Megane RS Trophy-R, suggesting the GT4 (or whatever Alpine plans to call it) could share some componentry with the new Nordschleife hot-hatch hero.

Growing up, there were a number of German cars synonymous with being the benchmark in their class – names like Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Volkswagen Golf, and Porsche 911. Another one of those is the BMW 3 Series, which has long been regarded as the luxury sports sedan to beat, though it hasn't always set the standard.

Bentley was founded on July 10, 1919 by W.O. Bentley. That makes 2019 the company's centenary. It's also likely to be the seventh successive year where it sells more than 10,000 vehicles worldwide.

Skoda's student-developed ute concept is taking shape ahead of its reveal next month, with teaser images revealing some of the changes being made to its Kodiaq underpinnings. The new Mountiaq Concept will be a pickup (picqup?) based on the Kodiaq SUV, wearing gear like a front-mounted winch, 17-inch wheels and a Sunset Orange paint finish. We also know there will be an LED light bar on the roof and backlit elements in the grille.

BMW has released its first wireless software update for its OS7.0 infotainment system, with fresh functionality from its 'Intelligent Personal Assistant'. The update is available on the new X5, 3 Series and 8 Series, and includes changes to the personal assistant, adaptive cruise control and side collision protection systems.

Mercedes-Benz Australia has issued a recall for the 2014-15 and 2018-19 C-Class models over concerns the steering could lock. The manufacturer says the steering system in affected vehicles may have lock nuts "with possible production deviations", which could break. If the condition occurs, the steering could lock, posing a hazard to the driver and increasing the risk of an accident.

Audi Australia has issued a recall for the 2014 to 2016 model-year A6 and A7 over concerns a faulty heater element could pose a fire hazard. The German marque reports that affected vehicles have an auxiliary heater element in the air conditioner that could fail due to an incorrectly plugged in electrical connecter. If the condition occurs, the connectors could overheat causing the element to fail, which could cause smolder damage or even a fire.

The Jeep Wrangler’s woeful one-star Euro NCAP crash rating announced late last year has been carried over for Australian versions by affiliated local test body, ANCAP, despite indications that our versions might get some safety-minded improvements. The retro American 4x4 managed a 50% score for adult occupant protection, 49% for ‘vulnerable road user protection’ (pedestrians and cyclists) and 32% for safety assist tech. The only real pass mark was its 80% score for child occupant protection.

Independent crash testing authority ANCAP has released safety ratings for the new Toyota HiAce and Nissan Leaf, both scoring the full five stars. Both vehicles managed over 90% for adult occupant protection, with the HiAce impressing further with an 84% rating for vulnerable road users, too.

It may have only just been revealed yesterday, but the all-new BMW 1 Series has already received the M Performance Parts treatment from the company's motorsport division, with the range of performance accessories already available in Europe. Various components can be specified for the exterior and interior, optimising aerodynamics and enhancing aesthetics.

Holden Special Vehicles has released the Series II update for the iconic Chevrolet Camaro muscle car. Distinguished by a bold new nose, sleek tail-lights, and updated 20-inch wheels, the big news is under the floorpan rather than under the bonnet. Power from the 6.2-litre V8 is unchanged, but for 2019 the Camaro gets a 10-speed auto – replacing the eight-speed from the original batch of 550 cars imported last year.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has recalled the 2016-2018 model-year Abarth 124 Spider over concerns automatic models could suddenly shift into first gear while the vehicle is in motion. The manufacturer says incorrect software in the transmission control module could make the car engage first gear when in moving in 'D'. If the condition occurs, this poses a safety risk to the vehicle's occupants and other road users.

Infotainment is a big deal in the modern-day vehicle, especially if it’s the family mule. Regardless of how a car drives, rides and steers, an infotainment unit can easily make or break a vehicle. With that in mind, let’s have a closer look at the infotainment system in our long-termer Volvo XC90 in D5 R-Design flavour. The main element is the portrait-style touchscreen display, which measures in at 9.3 inches of size. It has only one home button hidden amongst the piano-black bezel.

Fiat Chrysler has proposed a €32.7 billion ($52.7 billion) merger with Renault, in a move that could reshape the global automotive landscape. Groupe Renault's board of directors will meet to discuss the proposal, which would have Renault and FCA each owning 50% of the business.

The Fiat 500X has celebrated a production milestone, with the 500,000th example rolling down the assembly line in Melfi, Italy, over the weekend. Befitting of the special occasion, the milestone vehicle was a special-edition model, the 500X 120th edition, which celebrates the brand's 120th anniversary.

Mercedes-Benz Australia has issued a recall notice for the 2018 E-Class and GLE, over concerns the power steering could fail. The three-pointed star reports that 'certain' vehicles across both model lines could have a sensor in the electric power steering system that was "manufactured outside of the specification". If the condition occurs, the sensor could fail and disable the electric steering assistance. This poses a hazard to the driver and could increase the risk of an accident.

Formula E is only in its fifth season, but there are plenty of big names on the grid. Audi and BMW already have factory-backed operations, while Mercedes-Benz will join next year. Motorsports juggernaut Porsche will also join the grid in 2019/2020. The Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and Mahindra have been on board since day one, too.

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Australia has issued a recall for the all-electric I-Pace crossover from the 2019 and 2020 model years, over concerns the regenerative braking system could fail. The British marque reports that customers may experience "friction braking" systems that don't perform "as quickly as required", which can increase the vehicle's stopping distance.

Formula E hasn't been around long. It's only five years old, certainly not since the beginning of motoring, but lessons from the electric single-seat series are already sneaking onto the school run. Michelin has been on board with Formula E since day one, developing the Pilot Sport EV (generation one cars) and now the Pilot Sport for the growing category, and says it's already transferred tech from the e-prix circuit into its production tyres.

Lexus Australia has announced drive-away pricing across its volume-selling SUV range, along with its IS sports sedan. Having sold a record amount of crossovers during the first quarter of 2019 (2283 units to be exact, up 9.0%), the Japanese luxury brand has launched what is dubbed the 'step-up' campaign, which sees $10,000 steps between its core SUV models.

Mazda Australia has announced some subtle updates for the Mazda 6 mid-sizer, just 12 months after the refreshed model went on sale Down Under.

The third-generation BMW 1 Series hatch has been unveiled, and for the first time BMW's smallest hatch is based on a front-wheel drive platform with only a five-door body on offer. Visually, the new 1 Series is quite a departure from earlier models with a wedge-shaped body and slim side windows. The car features a short, steeply raked bonnet behind angular headlight units, and merged oversized kidney grilles inspired by the X5 and X7.

It’s old, it’s overpriced, it’s slow and it’s thirsty. It’s also expensive, awful in traffic, and come to think of it, not exactly great on the highway either. It’s also a legend in its own right, and regularly outsells some of the cheaper, faster, safer and more efficient competition out there. It’s the Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series, in double cab format. And we’ve bought one to keep at CarAdvice.

With single-car garage reviews, it’s perhaps fair and reasonable to assess any new, or newly revised, model on singular merit. To this point, the knowledge bank is bolstered with some colleague’s broad-view impression from an international launch, and closer, more forensic insight from the car’s local release.

Luc Donckerwolke, recently appointed head of design for the entire Hyundai Motor Group, has outlined his vision for the automaker. Speaking with Autocar, he said his team's "core task is to differentiate the design philosophy of the three brands". Part of this desire stems from the stranglehold the company has on the South Korean market, where it accounts for 70% of all new car sales. Failure would see the Korean automotive landscape become "too homogeneous" from a design standpoint.

Discussions initially focussed on Fiat Chrysler (FCA) using platforms and technologies from Renault have reportedly morphed into something more complex and wide-ranging. Multiple sources have told The Financial Times the talks between FCA and Renault are on-going, with a lot of structures and options currently being evaluated. The sources have cautioned the discussions could still fall apart and yield no deal.

The car industry has slammed a proposal by the Victorian Government to slug vehicles priced over $100,000 with an additional tax – on top of the 10 per cent GST on the total cost and 33 per cent Luxury Car Tax already charged on every dollar above $66,331. The “tax on a tax on a tax” is expected to be announced Monday as part of the Victorian Government’s state budget and could come into force in a matter of weeks, from the beginning of the new financial year starting July 1.

The automotive news wheel is always turning. If you’re not constantly checking CarAdvice – which you should be doing, by the way – it can be easy for some headlines to slip through the cracks. To make sure you haven’t missed anything important, we’ve gathered what we reckon are the hottest news stories from this week, right here. Check them out, and let us know what caught your eye.

Renault has decided to take the challenge up to China’s $28,990 LDV G10 diesel with a cut-price version of its Trafic mid-sized van called the Trader Life. This range-opening model wears a tantalising drive-away price of $29,990 provided you’ve got an Australian Business Number (ABN), squeaking under the $30,000 instant asset write-off threshold. That’s $4000 less than the next variant in the model walk, too.

It hasn't even been revealed in production form as yet, but the Mercedes-Benz GLB looks like it's going to get a hi-po AMG 45 version, if this recently spied prototype is anything to go by. First previewed in near-production concept form at the Shanghai motor show last month, the GLB will slot between the next GLA and the larger GLC in Benz's crossover line-up, and like its stablemates it will get an AMG-fettled variant boasting quite a lot of power.

In the right hands the Hyundai i30N hot hatch is capable of outpacing Porsches, BMWs, Audis and other exotic supercars. Unfortunately, I don’t have those hands.  Which is why although I’m behind the wheel of a Hyundai i30N Fastback, I’m not about to set any records. My main focus is keeping on Terra Firma while trying to extract as much enjoyment as possible from Hyundai’s entree into the hot hatch class.

Joshua Dowling is behind the wheel on closed roads in Hyundai's latest hot hatch at Targa Tasmania.

Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Wraith Eagle VIII this week, ahead of its public debut a the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este on May 24. Just 50 examples of this very special Wraith will be produced, created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of "one of the most pivotal moments of the 20th century".

Ferrari has once again taken out International Engine of the Year, beating Jaguar's all-electric powertrain and Mercedes-AMG's ubiquitous V8 for the honour. It's the fourth year in a row Ferrari has won the award, a feat that's never been achieved before. Ford won three years running with its 1.0-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder engine, so back-to-back awards aren't unheard of, but it's an impressive achievement for the folks in Maranello nonetheless.

The BMW 5 Series has its work cut out for it. Not only does it have to fend off competitors like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but now it potentially faces internal competition from the newer 3 Series range. Not to sell the 2019 BMW 530i short, though. It’s still every bit the large, luxury sedan you imagine when you think of the segment. The march of technology certainly hasn’t left it behind, but shifting buyer preferences may have.

Photographers have snapped the new Mercedes-AMG A45 in and around the Nurburgring this week, wearing a thinner disguise than we've seen previously. It appears Benz's new hyper hatch is very close to being revealed, given all the bumpers and light units look to be the final production units.

It's time. We've put the 10 most popular small cars together, priced between $30,000 and $40,000, to see which are most deserving of your attention.

Audi has taken to its Annual General Meeting to announce it will be killing off the TT sports car after the current generation, and eventually succeeded by an 'emotive' EV. Company chairman, Bram Schot, made the announcement during the AGM, citing the streamlining of the company's investments as the main reason for the decision.

On the panel this week are Mandy Turner, Mike Stevens, and James Wong. In car news, pricing and specifications have been announced for the 2020 Toyota Supra and 2019 Genesis G70, Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed a $6.7 billion loss, the Toyota Tarago has been axed to make way for the Granvia, and the Mercedes-Benz EQC has the 'highest demand of any passenger car we've shown'.

Is this Mercedes-Benz EQC the new benchmark in luxury electric vehicles? We look forward to getting it through our garage for a proper comprehensive test, but, either way... it's a positive sign of things to come and shows Mercedes-Benz is heading in the right direction for an assault on the EV segment.

The facelifted Skoda Superb was unveiled overnight at in Bratislava, Slovakia. All models in the revised Superb range feature restyled bumpers, narrower LED headlamps, full LED tail-lights, Skoda lettering at the back, and a deeper grille. Skoda has also changed the design of the Superb's 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels, added two colours (Crystal Black and Race Blue) to the palette, and introduced double slat bars for some models.

As was widely expected, the new Opel Corsa-e has the same drivetrain as the Peugeot 208-e. Under the bonnet, the Corsa-e has an electric motor with 100kW of power and 260Nm of torque. Opel says the electric hatchback is capable of racing from 0-100km/h in 8.1 seconds. Fitted with a 50kWh battery under the floor, the Corsa-e has an expected driving range of 330 kilometres using the WLTP cycle.

The Skoda Citigo-e iV has been unveiled before going into production during the second half of 2019 as the brand's first all-electric vehicle. Available solely as a five-door hatch, the electric Citigo is powered by an electric motor with 61kW of power and 210Nm of torque, which is capable of propelling the city hatch from 0-100km/h in 12.5 seconds, and towards a top speed of 130km/h.

Euro NCAP has released a new round of safety ratings this week, with a trio of new models impressing against the firm's latest, strictest criteria. In addition to the ANCAP ratings released this week based on the European arm's testing, a handful of models not yet available in Australia also received five-star ratings – the electric Audi e-tron, the new Renault Clio light hatch, and the Volkswagen T-Cross compact crossover.

It's not a perfect new platform, but the new Wrangler is a huge developmental step forward from the old model. I think you should be buying these and heading as far off-road as you dare to justify the outlay, but it's so much more refined on-road that you can't criticise those who will choose to use it solely around town.

Finally, after much pontificating and debate, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler has arrived in Australia and CarAdvice had the chance to sample the new off-road legend in its natural environment. That is, mud, dirt, rocks and water crossings. And lots of all of them. 

Nissan Japan has added a new variant to the all-electric Leaf hatchback line-up, in the form of the Leaf Autech. The Autech brand is a Nissan subsidiary, and its take on the Leaf is pitched as offering "sporty, exclusive styling and quality materials to discerning customers".

The Five Quarter Concept shows that the people behind the Jeep brand, designers and engineers, are passionate enthusiasts of the brand that see more than just a mode of transport or medium for profit. They see the Wrangler (and now Gladiator) as the core of what the brand is all about – something they defend and promote with vigour.

Volkswagen Australia has initiated its recall for 2013 model-year Golf, Passat and Transporter vehicles as part of the ongoing Takata airbag campaign. In this instance, the notice relates to driver's side inflators. As per previous Takata recalls, the airbags could have propellant that degrades over time when exposed to long periods of high humidity and temperature fluctuations.

A Porsche Approved pre-owned car offers you quality, peace of mind and, above all, plenty of driving pleasure. Every vehicle is less than nine years old and bears the Porsche Approved seal, professionally prepared using only Genuine Porsche parts. Buyers are guaranteed:

We’re driving north out of Moab to an undisclosed location around 50km from town. The road is busy with Jeeps assembling at the various trailheads for a day of off-roading. Our own convoy of five cars soon peels off the main road and follows some nondescript dusty tracks out into the scrub.

Mercedes-Benz USA has added a new range-topping variant to the new GLE range, in the form of the GLE580 with EQ Boost technology. It's the first time we've seen the new-generation GLE with a V8 engine – though the new AMG 63 version will get one too – and this one is shared with the larger GLS580.

Here we have Australia’s second-favourite compact SUV. In its most popular trim grade – Maxx Sport. And in its most popular drive format – front-wheel drive. The odd element out is the engine. Our 2019 Mazda CX-3 Maxx Sport is powered by a turbo-diesel engine that Mazda Australia expects to account for just one per cent of overall model sales (down from the three per cent quoted when the baby Mazda SUV debuted in 2015). Manufacturers have dropped many a variant with bigger figures.

Kia has issued another set of teaser images for its all-new small SUV, unofficially named the 'Tusker', this time giving us a first look at the interior. Following the exterior sketches released earlier this month, the interior images show the new SUV's dashboard and control layout, which appears to draw a bit of inspiration from the Cerato small car – right down to the identical steering wheel.

Dr Ken Washington, Ford's chief technology officer, unveiled the Digit delivery robot via post on the company's Medium blog. Developed and built by Agility Robotics, Digit is said answer the question of how to get packages from autonomous delivery vans into the hands, or at least the doorstep, of its recipient. With only about 1% of American homes being wheelchair accessible, a wheeled robot was not seen as being a feasible solution.

Craig Irwin, an analyst at Roth Capital Partners, has told CNBC his company believes Apple made a bid of US$240 per share for Tesla back in 2013. Through multiple sources Irwin has "complete confidence" Apple made a "serious bid", but he isn't sure if the interest went as far as formal paperwork. According Irwin the talks broke down over Apple's insistence Musk step down from the helm.

The range-topping BMW X5 M50i and X7 M50i (above) were unveiled overnight. Like the M850i models, both crossovers are powered by a 4.4-litre V8 with two turbochargers located within the V. The engine is said to make 390kW of power between 5500 and 6000rpm, and 750Nm between 1800rpm and 4600rpm. All of that is channelled to the ground via an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

The leanest, meanest BMW M2 has been snapped during testing, revealing its mean stance and subtle bodywork add-ons. It looks like the M2 CS will get a carbon-fibre bonnet with a pronounced bulge, along with mirror caps, a roof, and body additions made of the lightweight weave. The subtle boot lid spoiler will likely be made of carbon, as on the M3 CS. It looks like a gurney flap, in keeping with its bigger brother, although that's subject to change before launch.

Riding high on a wave of publicity for the A90 Supra, Toyota has revealed it will produce spare parts for much-loved A70 and A80-generation cars. According to Japanese Nostalgic Car, the GR Heritage Parts Project will cater for owners of ageing Supra models. Exactly what those parts will be remains to be seen.

Say 'howdy' to the latest long-term addition to the CarAdvice garage, the 2019 Holden Equinox LTZ AWD. The LTZ variant of Holden's mid-size SUV starts at $39,990 for the petrol with front-wheel drive, with our all-wheel driven version bumping the starting price up to $44,290 plus on-road costs. A 1.6-litre diesel with AWD is also available for $47,290.

Independent crash testing firm, ANCAP, has released its latest round of safety scores this week, with several new models getting the full five stars. Among these were the Lexus UX, Mazda 3, Range Rover Evoque, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Touareg.

The next-generation Opel Corsa has been leaked on an online forum, ahead of its official reveal slated for later this year. Posted to French forum WorldScoop, the revealing images were allegedly posted to a news website by accident and taken down, though that didn't stop one user from saving hi-res files and publishing them.

Genesis Motors Australia has revealed preliminary pricing and specifications for its long-awaited G70 sedan, with details showing up on the online configurator on the local consumer website. Korea's competitor to the BMW 3 Series looks set to be offered in four trim levels and two engine variants, all rear-wheel drives and all fitted with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Starting proceedings will be the G70 2.0T, with pricing to be between $58,000 and $61,000 before on-road costs.

Land Rover has revealed the updated 2020 Discovery Sport, ahead of its arrival in local showrooms later this year. Headlining changes include a revised exterior design, more premium materials used in the cabin, enhanced driver assistance and infotainment technologies, and new 48V mild-hybrid petrol and diesel powertrains.

Aston Martin loves a James Bond special, which is fitting given 007 tends to choose the marque's grand tourers as his main form of transport. This week, the company has revealed the 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service DBS Superleggera special edition', marking the 50th anniversary of the sixth Bond film.

Holden has announced five new accessory packs set for its hard-working Colorado ute: the Tradie pack, the Black pack, the Farmer packs (in light- and heavy-duty forms), the Rig pack and the Xtreme pack. Here, Dom walks you through the offerings.

Nissan USA has revealed the latest in a long list of off-roading concepts, this time based on the Frontier mid-sized truck – also known as the previous-generation Navara. The Destination Frontier (to reiterate, previous-generation Navara) is designed to be a showcase of what can be done with ute, a bit of time, and a desire to go 'overlanding'. The total cost of the vehicle, truck and modifications included, is US$40,000 ($57,800).

According to Renault, the EZ-Pod is "an exploratory electric and autonomous vehicle for on­-demand travel over short distances". It is envisaged as a vehicle for getting people or goods to their final destination in densely populated areas, such as a city centre or housing estate, or within a closed environment, like a parking garage, airport, hotel complex, shopping centre or campus. As such, the EZ-Pod has a small footprint of around three square metres, and can only travel a low speeds.

The Audi Q5 55 TFSI e Quattro has a 185kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired to a 105kW/350Nm electric motor built into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Total system output is rated at 270kW of power, with 500Nm of torque available from 1250rpm. Audi says the Q5 plug-in hybrid is capable completing the 0-100km/h standard in 5.3 seconds, and hitting a top speed of 239km/h or 135km/h in pure EV mode.