An updated GWM Haval H6 GT PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) SUV has been spotted in Australia, showing interior and powertrain changes ahead of its expected arrival in local showrooms in the coming months. A rival to the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and BYD Sealion 6, the Haval H6 GT PHEV spied at a Melbourne shopping centre carpark wears ‘PHEV Hi4’ badges, signifying the fitment of the brand’s upgraded PHEV all-wheel-drive system already offered locally on the regular Haval H6 PHEV. It also shows an updated interior, including a larger centre screen, simplified centre console and a new steering wheel —…

Toyota has confirmed it’s actively working on a mid-engined sports car, but says it’s still a ways off. Gazoo Racing president Tomoya Takahashi said the performance division was working with Toyota to develop a model with a mid-mounted version of its forthcoming 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder performance engine, but stopped short of naming it the MR2. Between 1984 and 2007, Toyota produced three generations of the MR2, with the transverse engine sitting ahead of the rear axle and driving the rear wheels. However, unlike earlier MR2 models, the next one appears as if it will have all-wheel drive. CarExpert can save…

Double demerit points are now in effect for the Australia Day long weekend across several Australian states and territories. The Monday, January 26 public holiday brings double demerits for New South Wales, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory from and including Friday, January 23. “This long weekend, police will be out in force to keep people safe on our roads. Double demerits are in place, and enforcement will be highly visible,” said NSW Acting Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Paul Scully in a statement. “Speeding, drink or drug driving, using your phone or not wearing a seatbelt are choices…

The Cupra Born electric vehicle (EV) has been recalled for a battery issue that could lead to a vehicle fire. “Due to a manufacturing issue, the cell modules installed in the high voltage battery may be defective and could overheat,” the company says in its recall notice. “If this occurs, it could lead to a vehicle fire. The range of the vehicle may also be affected. “A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users and bystanders, and/or damage to property.” Cupra Australia notes a warning light “may” illuminate in the instrument…

Many people think the days of affordable cars are over – but the MG ZS Essence Turbo begs to differ. MG seems to have arrived in the Australian market at the right time, just as several city cars were axed – reducing the number of affordable models available to buyers – and leaving the door wide open for the Chinese brand. And the numbers suggest Australians are often choosing the MG ZS over competitors in the segment, like the GWM Haval Jolion and Toyota Corolla Cross, while a close battle wages between the ZS and the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro.…

Polestar was one of Australia’s fastest-growing auto brands last year in terms of sales, and while it doesn’t expect the same growth in 2026, the Sino-Swedish brand is confident its expanding local dealer network and increasing customer awareness will keep people interested in its electric vehicles (EVs). Marking an impressive 38.5 per cent sales increase over 2024, Australian sales for the Geely-owned EV brand were propelled by demand for its two relatively new SUVs, the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4, which helped push its total sales to 2373 in 2025. They also contributed to a 36 per cent increase in…

Polestar Australia has called on the Australian Government to leave its long-standing electric vehicle (EV) incentives alone, following an announcement in December last year that its EV subsidy scheme would be reviewed. Since July 1, 2022, EVs priced below the Luxury Car Tax (LCT) threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles ($91,387 for 2025-26) have been exempt from Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT), potentially saving novated lessees thousands each year. The Australian Treasury estimates that roughly 100,000 EV buyers have benefited to date. Following the review, which was promised when the discount was legislated, the government could end, renew or modify the scheme. According…