2025 Mitsubishi Destinator is a new seven-seat SUV not for Australia
It's perhaps no surprise, then, that the Indonesian-built SUV isn't planned for an Australian launch.
Instead, it's the third of a trio of "global strategic models" from Mitsubishi in Indonesia, following the Xpander people mover and the Xforce small SUV, with the Japanese brand calling its operations in the Southeast Asian market a "cornerstone" of its business.
It'll be offered not only in ASEAN markets like Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines, but also in South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Indonesian sales start this month.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
That leaves the Outlander – which isn't sold in Indonesia – for markets like Australia, North America and Europe.
While close to the Outlander in terms of length and width, the Destinator – previewed by last year's DST concept, which it closely resembles – rides a 109mm longer wheelbase. A seven-seat configuration is standard.
The only engine is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with drive sent to the front wheels only via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
This powertrain is shared with the Eclipse Cross, and a mild-hybrid version of this is being introduced to the Outlander in the US market but hasn't been confirmed for Australia.
The Destinator rides on MacPherson strut front suspension, with a torsion beam at the rear.
It has more ground clearance than the Outlander, and greater approach, rampover and departure angles.
Here's how it compares with the Outlander:
Mitsubishi notes ground clearance expands to 244mm without the Destinator's under cover.
The extra ground clearance over an Outlander is intended to make this not only easier to drive on rough roads, but also through heavy rain.
Mitsubishi says it has tuned the Destinator's suspension for comfort on ASEAN roads, using a Japanese course engineered to simulate these surfaces and then evaluating and fine-tuning it in Indonesia.
The Destinator is front-wheel drive, but Mitsubishi says it has leveraged its all-wheel control technology. For example, there's Active Yaw Control, which adjusts the driving force of the left and right front wheels for greater cornering ability.
There are five selectable drive modes: Wet, Tarmac, Normal, Gravel and Mud.
There's a clear resemblance to the Xforce, particularly the Y-shaped lighting elements front and rear, but the Destinator differs with its boxier profile and creased fenders.
There are 18-inch wheels, as well as skid plates front and rear.
Inside, there's a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster screen.
Available luxury features include a panoramic sunroof, eight-speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium sound system, and 64-colour ambient lighting on the dashboard and front and rear door trims, which can also be set to cycle through colours or gently pulse.
According to Mitsubishi, U-turns are common in ASEAN markets, so it has fitted a steering wheel with an easy to grip shape which, combined with a "responsive gear ratio", aids manoeuvrability.
Mitsubishi promises the interior has "soft, premium material" and there's comfort for all passengers, specifically noting the third row has "high hip points and spacious knee room". Those in the rearmost row also get their own air vents, as well as USB-A and USB-C outlets.
Other convenience features include seatback tables on the front seats.
The second row splits 40:20:40 and the third row 50:50, with both folding flat, and Mitsubishi promises that even with the third row up there's room for four gallon-sized water bottles.
Available safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera, while six airbags are fitted.
ABOVE: Mitsubishi L300 and Xpander Cross
Connected services features include automatic collision notifications, while owners can use their smartphone to remotely check the vehicle's fuel level and location and control features like the air-conditioning.
Mitsubishi's Indonesian lineup looks quite different to ours. While the familiar Pajero Sport and Triton are sold there, the ASX, Eclipse Cross and Outlander aren't.
Instead, Mitsubishi sells its aforementioned three "global strategic models", plus an electric kei-class van called the L100 and the 1979-vintage L300 light commercial vehicle.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The new Mitsubishi Destinator is roughly the size of the Outlander and, like the popular mid-sizer, offers three rows of seating.
It's perhaps no surprise, then, that the Indonesian-built SUV isn't planned for an Australian launch.
Instead, it's the third of a trio of "global strategic models" from Mitsubishi in Indonesia, following the Xpander people mover and the Xforce small SUV, with the Japanese brand calling its operations in the Southeast Asian market a "cornerstone" of its business.
It'll be offered not only in ASEAN markets like Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines, but also in South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Indonesian sales start this month.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
That leaves the Outlander – which isn't sold in Indonesia – for markets like Australia, North America and Europe.
While close to the Outlander in terms of length and width, the Destinator – previewed by last year's DST concept, which it closely resembles – rides a 109mm longer wheelbase. A seven-seat configuration is standard.
The only engine is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with drive sent to the front wheels only via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
This powertrain is shared with the Eclipse Cross, and a mild-hybrid version of this is being introduced to the Outlander in the US market but hasn't been confirmed for Australia.
The Destinator rides on MacPherson strut front suspension, with a torsion beam at the rear.
It has more ground clearance than the Outlander, and greater approach, rampover and departure angles.
Here's how it compares with the Outlander:
Mitsubishi notes ground clearance expands to 244mm without the Destinator's under cover.
The extra ground clearance over an Outlander is intended to make this not only easier to drive on rough roads, but also through heavy rain.
Mitsubishi says it has tuned the Destinator's suspension for comfort on ASEAN roads, using a Japanese course engineered to simulate these surfaces and then evaluating and fine-tuning it in Indonesia.
The Destinator is front-wheel drive, but Mitsubishi says it has leveraged its all-wheel control technology. For example, there's Active Yaw Control, which adjusts the driving force of the left and right front wheels for greater cornering ability.
There are five selectable drive modes: Wet, Tarmac, Normal, Gravel and Mud.
There's a clear resemblance to the Xforce, particularly the Y-shaped lighting elements front and rear, but the Destinator differs with its boxier profile and creased fenders.
There are 18-inch wheels, as well as skid plates front and rear.
Inside, there's a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster screen.
Available luxury features include a panoramic sunroof, eight-speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium sound system, and 64-colour ambient lighting on the dashboard and front and rear door trims, which can also be set to cycle through colours or gently pulse.
According to Mitsubishi, U-turns are common in ASEAN markets, so it has fitted a steering wheel with an easy to grip shape which, combined with a "responsive gear ratio", aids manoeuvrability.
Mitsubishi promises the interior has "soft, premium material" and there's comfort for all passengers, specifically noting the third row has "high hip points and spacious knee room". Those in the rearmost row also get their own air vents, as well as USB-A and USB-C outlets.
Other convenience features include seatback tables on the front seats.
The second row splits 40:20:40 and the third row 50:50, with both folding flat, and Mitsubishi promises that even with the third row up there's room for four gallon-sized water bottles.
Available safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera, while six airbags are fitted.
ABOVE: Mitsubishi L300 and Xpander Cross
Connected services features include automatic collision notifications, while owners can use their smartphone to remotely check the vehicle's fuel level and location and control features like the air-conditioning.
Mitsubishi's Indonesian lineup looks quite different to ours. While the familiar Pajero Sport and Triton are sold there, the ASX, Eclipse Cross and Outlander aren't.
Instead, Mitsubishi sells its aforementioned three "global strategic models", plus an electric kei-class van called the L100 and the 1979-vintage L300 light commercial vehicle.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The new Mitsubishi Destinator is roughly the size of the Outlander and, like the popular mid-sizer, offers three rows of seating.
It's perhaps no surprise, then, that the Indonesian-built SUV isn't planned for an Australian launch.
Instead, it's the third of a trio of "global strategic models" from Mitsubishi in Indonesia, following the Xpander people mover and the Xforce small SUV, with the Japanese brand calling its operations in the Southeast Asian market a "cornerstone" of its business.
It'll be offered not only in ASEAN markets like Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines, but also in South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Indonesian sales start this month.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
That leaves the Outlander – which isn't sold in Indonesia – for markets like Australia, North America and Europe.
While close to the Outlander in terms of length and width, the Destinator – previewed by last year's DST concept, which it closely resembles – rides a 109mm longer wheelbase. A seven-seat configuration is standard.
The only engine is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with drive sent to the front wheels only via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
This powertrain is shared with the Eclipse Cross, and a mild-hybrid version of this is being introduced to the Outlander in the US market but hasn't been confirmed for Australia.
The Destinator rides on MacPherson strut front suspension, with a torsion beam at the rear.
It has more ground clearance than the Outlander, and greater approach, rampover and departure angles.
Here's how it compares with the Outlander:
Mitsubishi notes ground clearance expands to 244mm without the Destinator's under cover.
The extra ground clearance over an Outlander is intended to make this not only easier to drive on rough roads, but also through heavy rain.
Mitsubishi says it has tuned the Destinator's suspension for comfort on ASEAN roads, using a Japanese course engineered to simulate these surfaces and then evaluating and fine-tuning it in Indonesia.
The Destinator is front-wheel drive, but Mitsubishi says it has leveraged its all-wheel control technology. For example, there's Active Yaw Control, which adjusts the driving force of the left and right front wheels for greater cornering ability.
There are five selectable drive modes: Wet, Tarmac, Normal, Gravel and Mud.
There's a clear resemblance to the Xforce, particularly the Y-shaped lighting elements front and rear, but the Destinator differs with its boxier profile and creased fenders.
There are 18-inch wheels, as well as skid plates front and rear.
Inside, there's a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster screen.
Available luxury features include a panoramic sunroof, eight-speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium sound system, and 64-colour ambient lighting on the dashboard and front and rear door trims, which can also be set to cycle through colours or gently pulse.
According to Mitsubishi, U-turns are common in ASEAN markets, so it has fitted a steering wheel with an easy to grip shape which, combined with a "responsive gear ratio", aids manoeuvrability.
Mitsubishi promises the interior has "soft, premium material" and there's comfort for all passengers, specifically noting the third row has "high hip points and spacious knee room". Those in the rearmost row also get their own air vents, as well as USB-A and USB-C outlets.
Other convenience features include seatback tables on the front seats.
The second row splits 40:20:40 and the third row 50:50, with both folding flat, and Mitsubishi promises that even with the third row up there's room for four gallon-sized water bottles.
Available safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera, while six airbags are fitted.
ABOVE: Mitsubishi L300 and Xpander Cross
Connected services features include automatic collision notifications, while owners can use their smartphone to remotely check the vehicle's fuel level and location and control features like the air-conditioning.
Mitsubishi's Indonesian lineup looks quite different to ours. While the familiar Pajero Sport and Triton are sold there, the ASX, Eclipse Cross and Outlander aren't.
Instead, Mitsubishi sells its aforementioned three "global strategic models", plus an electric kei-class van called the L100 and the 1979-vintage L300 light commercial vehicle.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The new Mitsubishi Destinator is roughly the size of the Outlander and, like the popular mid-sizer, offers three rows of seating.
It's perhaps no surprise, then, that the Indonesian-built SUV isn't planned for an Australian launch.
Instead, it's the third of a trio of "global strategic models" from Mitsubishi in Indonesia, following the Xpander people mover and the Xforce small SUV, with the Japanese brand calling its operations in the Southeast Asian market a "cornerstone" of its business.
It'll be offered not only in ASEAN markets like Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines, but also in South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Indonesian sales start this month.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
That leaves the Outlander – which isn't sold in Indonesia – for markets like Australia, North America and Europe.
While close to the Outlander in terms of length and width, the Destinator – previewed by last year's DST concept, which it closely resembles – rides a 109mm longer wheelbase. A seven-seat configuration is standard.
The only engine is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120kW of power and 250Nm of torque, with drive sent to the front wheels only via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
This powertrain is shared with the Eclipse Cross, and a mild-hybrid version of this is being introduced to the Outlander in the US market but hasn't been confirmed for Australia.
The Destinator rides on MacPherson strut front suspension, with a torsion beam at the rear.
It has more ground clearance than the Outlander, and greater approach, rampover and departure angles.
Here's how it compares with the Outlander:
Mitsubishi notes ground clearance expands to 244mm without the Destinator's under cover.
The extra ground clearance over an Outlander is intended to make this not only easier to drive on rough roads, but also through heavy rain.
Mitsubishi says it has tuned the Destinator's suspension for comfort on ASEAN roads, using a Japanese course engineered to simulate these surfaces and then evaluating and fine-tuning it in Indonesia.
The Destinator is front-wheel drive, but Mitsubishi says it has leveraged its all-wheel control technology. For example, there's Active Yaw Control, which adjusts the driving force of the left and right front wheels for greater cornering ability.
There are five selectable drive modes: Wet, Tarmac, Normal, Gravel and Mud.
There's a clear resemblance to the Xforce, particularly the Y-shaped lighting elements front and rear, but the Destinator differs with its boxier profile and creased fenders.
There are 18-inch wheels, as well as skid plates front and rear.
Inside, there's a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster screen.
Available luxury features include a panoramic sunroof, eight-speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium sound system, and 64-colour ambient lighting on the dashboard and front and rear door trims, which can also be set to cycle through colours or gently pulse.
According to Mitsubishi, U-turns are common in ASEAN markets, so it has fitted a steering wheel with an easy to grip shape which, combined with a "responsive gear ratio", aids manoeuvrability.
Mitsubishi promises the interior has "soft, premium material" and there's comfort for all passengers, specifically noting the third row has "high hip points and spacious knee room". Those in the rearmost row also get their own air vents, as well as USB-A and USB-C outlets.
Other convenience features include seatback tables on the front seats.
The second row splits 40:20:40 and the third row 50:50, with both folding flat, and Mitsubishi promises that even with the third row up there's room for four gallon-sized water bottles.
Available safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera, while six airbags are fitted.
ABOVE: Mitsubishi L300 and Xpander Cross
Connected services features include automatic collision notifications, while owners can use their smartphone to remotely check the vehicle's fuel level and location and control features like the air-conditioning.
Mitsubishi's Indonesian lineup looks quite different to ours. While the familiar Pajero Sport and Triton are sold there, the ASX, Eclipse Cross and Outlander aren't.
Instead, Mitsubishi sells its aforementioned three "global strategic models", plus an electric kei-class van called the L100 and the 1979-vintage L300 light commercial vehicle.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
21 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2026 Volvo XC60 price and specs
The Volvo XC60 has received a facelift for 2026, bringing freshened styling, new tech, and slight price increases. Available now, the updated mid-size luxury SUV lineup opens at $74,990 before on-road costs, with all XC60 variants receiving price increases of between $600 and $1900. The upgraded XC60 is distinguished from the pre-facelift model by a new grille, new alloy wheel designs, darkened LED tail-lights, and three new exterior paint finishes: Forest Lake, Mulberry Red and Aurora Silver. The Ultra B5 Bright has also been replaced by the Ultra B5 Dark which, as the name suggests, features dark exterior trim elements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Inside, there's a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen – up from 9.0 inches – which features Volvo's latest infotainment system and claimed improvements in processing and graphics performance. There are also new interior decors, inlays and upholsteries, while Volvo has revised the centre console with new cupholders and an improved wireless phone charger design. The XC60 is Volvo's second best-selling model in Australia, with 857 examples reaching Australian buyers in the first half of this year – behind only the XC40 (1287). The current, second-generation XC60 entered production in 2017. This facelift allows Volvo to extend the popular SUV's life for a few more years; the larger XC90 has also received a similar facelift. The XC60 is offered with either mild-hybrid (B5) or plug-in hybrid (T8) four-cylinder powertrains. The Volvo XC60 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Volvo offers three- and five-year pre-paid servicing plans, currently priced at $2380 and $3870 respectively. Servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. The Volvo XC60 doesn't currently have a safety rating from ANCAP, as its five-star rating from 2017 expired in December 2023. Standard safety equipment includes: The B5 mild-hybrid and T8 plug-in hybrid can both be had in Plus and Ultra trim levels. Standard equipment on the Plus B5 and Plus T8 includes: The B5 Ultra adds: The T8 Ultra adds: The Lifestyle package ($2867, Plus models) adds: The Climate package ($594, Plus models) adds: Standalone options include: Volvo doesn't charge any extra for any of the XC60's exterior finishes. The following finishes are available: The XC60's interior can be had in Black, Cardamom (Plus variants only) or Blond (Ultra variants only). MORE: Explore the Volvo XC60 showroom Content originally sourced from: The Volvo XC60 has received a facelift for 2026, bringing freshened styling, new tech, and slight price increases. Available now, the updated mid-size luxury SUV lineup opens at $74,990 before on-road costs, with all XC60 variants receiving price increases of between $600 and $1900. The upgraded XC60 is distinguished from the pre-facelift model by a new grille, new alloy wheel designs, darkened LED tail-lights, and three new exterior paint finishes: Forest Lake, Mulberry Red and Aurora Silver. The Ultra B5 Bright has also been replaced by the Ultra B5 Dark which, as the name suggests, features dark exterior trim elements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Inside, there's a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen – up from 9.0 inches – which features Volvo's latest infotainment system and claimed improvements in processing and graphics performance. There are also new interior decors, inlays and upholsteries, while Volvo has revised the centre console with new cupholders and an improved wireless phone charger design. The XC60 is Volvo's second best-selling model in Australia, with 857 examples reaching Australian buyers in the first half of this year – behind only the XC40 (1287). The current, second-generation XC60 entered production in 2017. This facelift allows Volvo to extend the popular SUV's life for a few more years; the larger XC90 has also received a similar facelift. The XC60 is offered with either mild-hybrid (B5) or plug-in hybrid (T8) four-cylinder powertrains. The Volvo XC60 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Volvo offers three- and five-year pre-paid servicing plans, currently priced at $2380 and $3870 respectively. Servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. The Volvo XC60 doesn't currently have a safety rating from ANCAP, as its five-star rating from 2017 expired in December 2023. Standard safety equipment includes: The B5 mild-hybrid and T8 plug-in hybrid can both be had in Plus and Ultra trim levels. Standard equipment on the Plus B5 and Plus T8 includes: The B5 Ultra adds: The T8 Ultra adds: The Lifestyle package ($2867, Plus models) adds: The Climate package ($594, Plus models) adds: Standalone options include: Volvo doesn't charge any extra for any of the XC60's exterior finishes. The following finishes are available: The XC60's interior can be had in Black, Cardamom (Plus variants only) or Blond (Ultra variants only). MORE: Explore the Volvo XC60 showroom Content originally sourced from: The Volvo XC60 has received a facelift for 2026, bringing freshened styling, new tech, and slight price increases. Available now, the updated mid-size luxury SUV lineup opens at $74,990 before on-road costs, with all XC60 variants receiving price increases of between $600 and $1900. The upgraded XC60 is distinguished from the pre-facelift model by a new grille, new alloy wheel designs, darkened LED tail-lights, and three new exterior paint finishes: Forest Lake, Mulberry Red and Aurora Silver. The Ultra B5 Bright has also been replaced by the Ultra B5 Dark which, as the name suggests, features dark exterior trim elements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Inside, there's a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen – up from 9.0 inches – which features Volvo's latest infotainment system and claimed improvements in processing and graphics performance. There are also new interior decors, inlays and upholsteries, while Volvo has revised the centre console with new cupholders and an improved wireless phone charger design. The XC60 is Volvo's second best-selling model in Australia, with 857 examples reaching Australian buyers in the first half of this year – behind only the XC40 (1287). The current, second-generation XC60 entered production in 2017. This facelift allows Volvo to extend the popular SUV's life for a few more years; the larger XC90 has also received a similar facelift. The XC60 is offered with either mild-hybrid (B5) or plug-in hybrid (T8) four-cylinder powertrains. The Volvo XC60 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Volvo offers three- and five-year pre-paid servicing plans, currently priced at $2380 and $3870 respectively. Servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. The Volvo XC60 doesn't currently have a safety rating from ANCAP, as its five-star rating from 2017 expired in December 2023. Standard safety equipment includes: The B5 mild-hybrid and T8 plug-in hybrid can both be had in Plus and Ultra trim levels. Standard equipment on the Plus B5 and Plus T8 includes: The B5 Ultra adds: The T8 Ultra adds: The Lifestyle package ($2867, Plus models) adds: The Climate package ($594, Plus models) adds: Standalone options include: Volvo doesn't charge any extra for any of the XC60's exterior finishes. The following finishes are available: The XC60's interior can be had in Black, Cardamom (Plus variants only) or Blond (Ultra variants only). MORE: Explore the Volvo XC60 showroom Content originally sourced from: The Volvo XC60 has received a facelift for 2026, bringing freshened styling, new tech, and slight price increases. Available now, the updated mid-size luxury SUV lineup opens at $74,990 before on-road costs, with all XC60 variants receiving price increases of between $600 and $1900. The upgraded XC60 is distinguished from the pre-facelift model by a new grille, new alloy wheel designs, darkened LED tail-lights, and three new exterior paint finishes: Forest Lake, Mulberry Red and Aurora Silver. The Ultra B5 Bright has also been replaced by the Ultra B5 Dark which, as the name suggests, features dark exterior trim elements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Inside, there's a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen – up from 9.0 inches – which features Volvo's latest infotainment system and claimed improvements in processing and graphics performance. There are also new interior decors, inlays and upholsteries, while Volvo has revised the centre console with new cupholders and an improved wireless phone charger design. The XC60 is Volvo's second best-selling model in Australia, with 857 examples reaching Australian buyers in the first half of this year – behind only the XC40 (1287). The current, second-generation XC60 entered production in 2017. This facelift allows Volvo to extend the popular SUV's life for a few more years; the larger XC90 has also received a similar facelift. The XC60 is offered with either mild-hybrid (B5) or plug-in hybrid (T8) four-cylinder powertrains. The Volvo XC60 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Volvo offers three- and five-year pre-paid servicing plans, currently priced at $2380 and $3870 respectively. Servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. The Volvo XC60 doesn't currently have a safety rating from ANCAP, as its five-star rating from 2017 expired in December 2023. Standard safety equipment includes: The B5 mild-hybrid and T8 plug-in hybrid can both be had in Plus and Ultra trim levels. Standard equipment on the Plus B5 and Plus T8 includes: The B5 Ultra adds: The T8 Ultra adds: The Lifestyle package ($2867, Plus models) adds: The Climate package ($594, Plus models) adds: Standalone options include: Volvo doesn't charge any extra for any of the XC60's exterior finishes. The following finishes are available: The XC60's interior can be had in Black, Cardamom (Plus variants only) or Blond (Ultra variants only). MORE: Explore the Volvo XC60 showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
21 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Why the Hyundai Santa Fe is a CarExpert Choice winner
The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from: The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from: The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from: The design of the fifth-generationHyundai Santa Fe might be polarising and it's certainly distinctive, but it's not the reason we named it Australia's best affordable large SUV in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. Inside its boxy exterior there's a refined, high-quality and high-tech three-row interior that's just as unique and sets a new standard for a mainstream large SUV in terms of presentation and accommodation. Compared to its Kia Sorento sister model, which is still good enough to be a finalist in this segment (the five-seat Subaru Outback is our other finalist for this award) even if the fourth generation is now five years old, the Santa Fe offers better second- and third-row space and amenity. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The latest Santa Fe also provides great outward visibility from all seats, a larger cargo area accessed via a lower loading lip, and outstanding ride comfort without compromising its exemplary dynamics (for a large SUV). There's also a long list of standard safety and multimedia technology even from base level, with the cheapest front-wheel drive variant powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and fitted with everything a growing family would need for $53,000 before on-road costs. In all there are eight variants, three equipment grades and two powertrain options including an efficient 1.6-litre hybrid that's also available in front- and all-wheel drive form. And the flagship Calligraphy AWD hybrid, which tops the range at $76,500 in seven-seat form and $77,000 in six-seat guise with a pair of second-row captain's chairs (both plus on-roads), not only looks and feels more like a Range Rover inside its luxurious cabin but also comes with all of Hyundai's premium features, including huge and responsive infotainment and instrument cluster screens, a head-up display, and twin wireless phone chargers. There's also cavernous storage capacity including two glove boxes, a huge twin-hinged lidded centre console box that can be accessed from the front and rear, and no fewer than 16 cupholders! The Santa Fe is no ladder-frame rock-hopper (which is why we have a separate award for best off-road SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado), but also making it an excellent large SUV for adventurous families are XRT option packages that give it a decent boost in all-terrain capability. All this is backed by attractive aftersales propositions including relatively low running and service costs, and a generous warranty. "Look, you're either going to love or hate the styling. But even if you hate it, consider just how practical that boxy body makes the Santa Fe," said CarExpert news editor William Stopford. "The old Santa Fe was already such a good thing, I was wondering how Hyundai could improve on it. Well, they have – this is a terrifically packaged, well-appointed crossover SUV loaded with tech, featuring competitive petrol and hybrid powertrains, and wrapped in distinctive styling." CarExpert marketplace editor James Wong agreed. "The trusty Santa Fe went through a massive metamorphosis in this latest generation, and while its looks are polarising its excellent packaging and luxurious level of features and tech are outstanding," he said. "There's the option of both a generally efficient hybrid or a torquey turbo-petrol drivetrain, and the Santa Fe offers heaps of configurations and personalisation options for discerning Australian families that want to stand out without breaking the bank." CarExpert journalist Max Davies said: "The quirky-looking Santa Fe remains a reliable option in Australia's large SUV market, offering a broad range of standard equipment, sturdy build quality, and a compliant ride at affordable prices. "You now also have the benefit of either hybrid or petrol powertrains, which means there should be something in the range to suit all budgets and lifestyles." MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom Content originally sourced from:
