2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is a 387kW Porsche Macan EV rival
It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq.
Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim.
Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control.
While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release.
"No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May.
"We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that.
"So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise."
A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel.
The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km.
It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes.
Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers.
The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering".
A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds.
The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille.
There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser.
A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package.
The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional.
A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat.
Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin.
You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents.
There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue.
The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim.
V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin.
Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen.
The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos.
Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle.
The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025.
"V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac.
"Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact."
It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years.
Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission.
It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic.
These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power.
V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6.
In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models.
It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV.
We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first.
It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq.
Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim.
Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control.
While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release.
"No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May.
"We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that.
"So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise."
A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel.
The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km.
It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes.
Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers.
The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering".
A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds.
The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille.
There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser.
A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package.
The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional.
A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat.
Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin.
You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents.
There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue.
The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim.
V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin.
Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen.
The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos.
Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle.
The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025.
"V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac.
"Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact."
It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years.
Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission.
It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic.
These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power.
V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6.
In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models.
It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV.
We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first.
It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq.
Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim.
Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control.
While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release.
"No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May.
"We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that.
"So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise."
A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel.
The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km.
It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes.
Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers.
The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering".
A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds.
The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille.
There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser.
A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package.
The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional.
A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat.
Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin.
You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents.
There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue.
The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim.
V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin.
Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen.
The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos.
Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle.
The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025.
"V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac.
"Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact."
It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years.
Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission.
It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic.
These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power.
V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6.
In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models.
It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV.
We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first.
It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq.
Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim.
Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control.
While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release.
"No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May.
"We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that.
"So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise."
A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel.
The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km.
It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes.
Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers.
The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering".
A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds.
The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille.
There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser.
A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package.
The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional.
A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat.
Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin.
You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents.
There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue.
The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim.
V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin.
Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen.
The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos.
Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle.
The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025.
"V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac.
"Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact."
It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years.
Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission.
It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic.
These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power.
V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6.
In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models.
It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV.
We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia.
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Advertiser
9 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Cupra Born VZ: EV hot hatch coming early 2026, more affordable options could follow
Cupra Australia will finally bring the 240kW Born VZ electric hot hatch early in 2026, though customers eager for less powerful variants will have to wait a little longer. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the high-performance Born will arrive at the beginning of next year (despite being earmarked for late-2025 as recently as March), while lesser variants may arrive with an incoming mid-life facelift. "We're in the process of planning the rest of the Born range beyond the VZ – even for the VZ we're still locking in a couple of final details," Mr Shafer said. "There's a facelift coming soon, so we're looking at the timing in terms of whether it makes sense to bring [lower variants] back in the shorter term, or wait for the [mid-life update]." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Asked about how the ever-changing EV market has impacted Cupra's approach, particularly with regards to re-introducing the Born, Mr Shafer said the Spanish brand will focus on driver enjoyment and value to stand out from increasing competition from the likes of emerging Chinese brands. "Cupra doesn't aspire to be all things to all people… so we really want to make sure that we're bringing cars that are appealing to people's emotions, and are above all fun to drive," Mr Shafer said. "With the Born, we got a lot of positive feedback on the ride and handling, and how there was a feeling of quality. I think these aspects take the VZ up to another level in terms of the responsiveness. "Bringing Tavascan into the market, in the EV space just making sure you've got a product that doesn't follow the others [is important]. "[Pricing] is always a challenge, and we don't take anything for granted in the Australian market. It did move very quickly, so we're trying to make sure we're bringing a product that has the right positioning, offers value that customers can see. "But also, making sure that the points of difference that we believe we have in design, ride and handling, and calibration of our assistance systems is also communicated so that people understand what they're getting for their money," Mr Shafer continued. "It's important that people feel like they have value. So we're not always chasing the cheapest price point, I don't think that's ever our position, but you definitely have to have a value that people can see and appreciate." The Cupra Born VZ features a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 240kW of power and 545Nm of torque, increases of 70kW and 235Nm over the standard 170kW Born that is now sold out in Australia. As a result, the Born VZ can sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds, and reach a top speed of 200km/h. Other changes under the skin of the VZ include a slightly larger 79kWh battery pack and a new DCC Sport chassis setup that includes revised dampers, anti-roll bars and rear springs. Exterior upgrades are limited to wider tyres and a choice of two 20-inch alloy wheel designs (globally): either forged or with 3D copper inserts. Two new colours join the palette: Midnight Black and Dark Forest green. Inside the cabin, the VZ is ready for the racetrack with bucket seats finished in recycled materials. The tech has also been improved over the base car, with the fitment of an upsized 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that features Cupra's latest operating system. The early 2026 launch timing is yet another delay for the flagship Born, which was originally due in May 2025, then pushed back to late 2025 as recently as March. This means when it arrives, it will be almost a year late. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest Cupra Born updates MORE: Explore the Cupra Born showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia will finally bring the 240kW Born VZ electric hot hatch early in 2026, though customers eager for less powerful variants will have to wait a little longer. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the high-performance Born will arrive at the beginning of next year (despite being earmarked for late-2025 as recently as March), while lesser variants may arrive with an incoming mid-life facelift. "We're in the process of planning the rest of the Born range beyond the VZ – even for the VZ we're still locking in a couple of final details," Mr Shafer said. "There's a facelift coming soon, so we're looking at the timing in terms of whether it makes sense to bring [lower variants] back in the shorter term, or wait for the [mid-life update]." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Asked about how the ever-changing EV market has impacted Cupra's approach, particularly with regards to re-introducing the Born, Mr Shafer said the Spanish brand will focus on driver enjoyment and value to stand out from increasing competition from the likes of emerging Chinese brands. "Cupra doesn't aspire to be all things to all people… so we really want to make sure that we're bringing cars that are appealing to people's emotions, and are above all fun to drive," Mr Shafer said. "With the Born, we got a lot of positive feedback on the ride and handling, and how there was a feeling of quality. I think these aspects take the VZ up to another level in terms of the responsiveness. "Bringing Tavascan into the market, in the EV space just making sure you've got a product that doesn't follow the others [is important]. "[Pricing] is always a challenge, and we don't take anything for granted in the Australian market. It did move very quickly, so we're trying to make sure we're bringing a product that has the right positioning, offers value that customers can see. "But also, making sure that the points of difference that we believe we have in design, ride and handling, and calibration of our assistance systems is also communicated so that people understand what they're getting for their money," Mr Shafer continued. "It's important that people feel like they have value. So we're not always chasing the cheapest price point, I don't think that's ever our position, but you definitely have to have a value that people can see and appreciate." The Cupra Born VZ features a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 240kW of power and 545Nm of torque, increases of 70kW and 235Nm over the standard 170kW Born that is now sold out in Australia. As a result, the Born VZ can sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds, and reach a top speed of 200km/h. Other changes under the skin of the VZ include a slightly larger 79kWh battery pack and a new DCC Sport chassis setup that includes revised dampers, anti-roll bars and rear springs. Exterior upgrades are limited to wider tyres and a choice of two 20-inch alloy wheel designs (globally): either forged or with 3D copper inserts. Two new colours join the palette: Midnight Black and Dark Forest green. Inside the cabin, the VZ is ready for the racetrack with bucket seats finished in recycled materials. The tech has also been improved over the base car, with the fitment of an upsized 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that features Cupra's latest operating system. The early 2026 launch timing is yet another delay for the flagship Born, which was originally due in May 2025, then pushed back to late 2025 as recently as March. This means when it arrives, it will be almost a year late. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest Cupra Born updates MORE: Explore the Cupra Born showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia will finally bring the 240kW Born VZ electric hot hatch early in 2026, though customers eager for less powerful variants will have to wait a little longer. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the high-performance Born will arrive at the beginning of next year (despite being earmarked for late-2025 as recently as March), while lesser variants may arrive with an incoming mid-life facelift. "We're in the process of planning the rest of the Born range beyond the VZ – even for the VZ we're still locking in a couple of final details," Mr Shafer said. "There's a facelift coming soon, so we're looking at the timing in terms of whether it makes sense to bring [lower variants] back in the shorter term, or wait for the [mid-life update]." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Asked about how the ever-changing EV market has impacted Cupra's approach, particularly with regards to re-introducing the Born, Mr Shafer said the Spanish brand will focus on driver enjoyment and value to stand out from increasing competition from the likes of emerging Chinese brands. "Cupra doesn't aspire to be all things to all people… so we really want to make sure that we're bringing cars that are appealing to people's emotions, and are above all fun to drive," Mr Shafer said. "With the Born, we got a lot of positive feedback on the ride and handling, and how there was a feeling of quality. I think these aspects take the VZ up to another level in terms of the responsiveness. "Bringing Tavascan into the market, in the EV space just making sure you've got a product that doesn't follow the others [is important]. "[Pricing] is always a challenge, and we don't take anything for granted in the Australian market. It did move very quickly, so we're trying to make sure we're bringing a product that has the right positioning, offers value that customers can see. "But also, making sure that the points of difference that we believe we have in design, ride and handling, and calibration of our assistance systems is also communicated so that people understand what they're getting for their money," Mr Shafer continued. "It's important that people feel like they have value. So we're not always chasing the cheapest price point, I don't think that's ever our position, but you definitely have to have a value that people can see and appreciate." The Cupra Born VZ features a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 240kW of power and 545Nm of torque, increases of 70kW and 235Nm over the standard 170kW Born that is now sold out in Australia. As a result, the Born VZ can sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds, and reach a top speed of 200km/h. Other changes under the skin of the VZ include a slightly larger 79kWh battery pack and a new DCC Sport chassis setup that includes revised dampers, anti-roll bars and rear springs. Exterior upgrades are limited to wider tyres and a choice of two 20-inch alloy wheel designs (globally): either forged or with 3D copper inserts. Two new colours join the palette: Midnight Black and Dark Forest green. Inside the cabin, the VZ is ready for the racetrack with bucket seats finished in recycled materials. The tech has also been improved over the base car, with the fitment of an upsized 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that features Cupra's latest operating system. The early 2026 launch timing is yet another delay for the flagship Born, which was originally due in May 2025, then pushed back to late 2025 as recently as March. This means when it arrives, it will be almost a year late. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest Cupra Born updates MORE: Explore the Cupra Born showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia will finally bring the 240kW Born VZ electric hot hatch early in 2026, though customers eager for less powerful variants will have to wait a little longer. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the high-performance Born will arrive at the beginning of next year (despite being earmarked for late-2025 as recently as March), while lesser variants may arrive with an incoming mid-life facelift. "We're in the process of planning the rest of the Born range beyond the VZ – even for the VZ we're still locking in a couple of final details," Mr Shafer said. "There's a facelift coming soon, so we're looking at the timing in terms of whether it makes sense to bring [lower variants] back in the shorter term, or wait for the [mid-life update]." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Asked about how the ever-changing EV market has impacted Cupra's approach, particularly with regards to re-introducing the Born, Mr Shafer said the Spanish brand will focus on driver enjoyment and value to stand out from increasing competition from the likes of emerging Chinese brands. "Cupra doesn't aspire to be all things to all people… so we really want to make sure that we're bringing cars that are appealing to people's emotions, and are above all fun to drive," Mr Shafer said. "With the Born, we got a lot of positive feedback on the ride and handling, and how there was a feeling of quality. I think these aspects take the VZ up to another level in terms of the responsiveness. "Bringing Tavascan into the market, in the EV space just making sure you've got a product that doesn't follow the others [is important]. "[Pricing] is always a challenge, and we don't take anything for granted in the Australian market. It did move very quickly, so we're trying to make sure we're bringing a product that has the right positioning, offers value that customers can see. "But also, making sure that the points of difference that we believe we have in design, ride and handling, and calibration of our assistance systems is also communicated so that people understand what they're getting for their money," Mr Shafer continued. "It's important that people feel like they have value. So we're not always chasing the cheapest price point, I don't think that's ever our position, but you definitely have to have a value that people can see and appreciate." The Cupra Born VZ features a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 240kW of power and 545Nm of torque, increases of 70kW and 235Nm over the standard 170kW Born that is now sold out in Australia. As a result, the Born VZ can sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds, and reach a top speed of 200km/h. Other changes under the skin of the VZ include a slightly larger 79kWh battery pack and a new DCC Sport chassis setup that includes revised dampers, anti-roll bars and rear springs. Exterior upgrades are limited to wider tyres and a choice of two 20-inch alloy wheel designs (globally): either forged or with 3D copper inserts. Two new colours join the palette: Midnight Black and Dark Forest green. Inside the cabin, the VZ is ready for the racetrack with bucket seats finished in recycled materials. The tech has also been improved over the base car, with the fitment of an upsized 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that features Cupra's latest operating system. The early 2026 launch timing is yet another delay for the flagship Born, which was originally due in May 2025, then pushed back to late 2025 as recently as March. This means when it arrives, it will be almost a year late. No doubt one reason for the delay is the Spanish brand's local strategy of giving each new model "the right time in the sun", as communicated by Cupra Australia's former director Ben Wilks earlier this year. "It's important to really roll these out responsibly in terms of timing. Each of these models needs the right time in the sun," Mr Wilks told CarExpert in March. "These are not necessarily delays from a factory perspective, but rather structure and order from our perspective." However, since Mr Wilks' comments launch timings for several new models have changed again. The facelifted Formentor and hotter Born VZ electric hatch were both initially due on sale here before the end of 2025, and now both are coming early next year. Stay tuned to CarExpert for all the latest Cupra Born updates MORE: Explore the Cupra Born showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
9 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2026 Honda Prelude has no direct competition, say Australian bosses
The Honda Prelude name will return to Australian showrooms for the first time in 25 years with its planned arrival in mid-2026, but it won't sit alongside any direct rivals nor set sales charts on fire, according to the brand. The Prelude was previously a mainstay in a highly competitive sports car market which has shrunk to a handful of models, including the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, Ford Mustang, Nissan Z and Toyota Supra. According to Honda, none of these are direct rivals to the 2026 Prelude, which will be the first to offer a hybrid powertrain. "By the nature of it, it's going to be a little bit in the market. There isn't going to be anything you can neatly say, it's a direct competitor of that – it's just seen in a lot of different spaces," said Honda Australia managing director, Rob Thorp. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The sentiment is backed up by Honda Australia CEO Jay Joseph, who told CarExpert: "Prelude is a really fun car, but it's not a high-volume car. "It's a bit of a Swiss Army Knife – it really doesn't fit neatly into a segment and I think that's the opportunity that we get to leverage." In the Prelude's final year in Australia, 2001, total sales across the 'Sports' segment were 8820 across all makes, making up 1.14 per cent of all the 772,681 new vehicles sold that year. In 2024, the same Sports segment saw 10,633 sales, making up an even smaller 0.87 per cent share of all new cars sold (not including brands like Mahindra, Tesla and Polestar brands, which don't report to the official VFACTS figures, and would reduce this number further). While the price of the Prelude in Australia is yet to be announced, it will enter a dramatically different battleground when it returns in mid-2026 – but does the sports car market have room for another competitor in Prelude? "Yes, we think it does," Honda Australia managing director Ron Thorp told CarExpert. "We've actually been planning this for a little while, and … the nature of the model is it doesn't fit a market segment easily. "It will, from a VFACTS perspective and pricing, but the customer who we think will be interested, it's going to be quite a wide, broad base." "If you look at [Civic] Type R, we know who wants to buy Type R," Mr Thorp said. "Looking at the Prelude, it could be a sports cars person, but you could sort of see, to be honest, older males who used to own them back in the 90s buying them again – I think it's going to reattract a lot of consumers back to the Honda brand. "You can see it opening up to a female audience as well because of the way it looks and drives and handles. "We sort of think that this is where the customer segment group might be," Mr Thorp said, with the Prelude potentially able to "attract a lot of different people from a lot of different areas". "It's also going to provide an opportunity to actually conquest and speak to new customers at the same time, and the combination of the two will allow us to generate great [brand] awareness and start to put Honda on a consideration list." More: Everything Honda Content originally sourced from: The Honda Prelude name will return to Australian showrooms for the first time in 25 years with its planned arrival in mid-2026, but it won't sit alongside any direct rivals nor set sales charts on fire, according to the brand. The Prelude was previously a mainstay in a highly competitive sports car market which has shrunk to a handful of models, including the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, Ford Mustang, Nissan Z and Toyota Supra. According to Honda, none of these are direct rivals to the 2026 Prelude, which will be the first to offer a hybrid powertrain. "By the nature of it, it's going to be a little bit in the market. There isn't going to be anything you can neatly say, it's a direct competitor of that – it's just seen in a lot of different spaces," said Honda Australia managing director, Rob Thorp. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The sentiment is backed up by Honda Australia CEO Jay Joseph, who told CarExpert: "Prelude is a really fun car, but it's not a high-volume car. "It's a bit of a Swiss Army Knife – it really doesn't fit neatly into a segment and I think that's the opportunity that we get to leverage." In the Prelude's final year in Australia, 2001, total sales across the 'Sports' segment were 8820 across all makes, making up 1.14 per cent of all the 772,681 new vehicles sold that year. In 2024, the same Sports segment saw 10,633 sales, making up an even smaller 0.87 per cent share of all new cars sold (not including brands like Mahindra, Tesla and Polestar brands, which don't report to the official VFACTS figures, and would reduce this number further). While the price of the Prelude in Australia is yet to be announced, it will enter a dramatically different battleground when it returns in mid-2026 – but does the sports car market have room for another competitor in Prelude? "Yes, we think it does," Honda Australia managing director Ron Thorp told CarExpert. "We've actually been planning this for a little while, and … the nature of the model is it doesn't fit a market segment easily. "It will, from a VFACTS perspective and pricing, but the customer who we think will be interested, it's going to be quite a wide, broad base." "If you look at [Civic] Type R, we know who wants to buy Type R," Mr Thorp said. "Looking at the Prelude, it could be a sports cars person, but you could sort of see, to be honest, older males who used to own them back in the 90s buying them again – I think it's going to reattract a lot of consumers back to the Honda brand. "You can see it opening up to a female audience as well because of the way it looks and drives and handles. "We sort of think that this is where the customer segment group might be," Mr Thorp said, with the Prelude potentially able to "attract a lot of different people from a lot of different areas". "It's also going to provide an opportunity to actually conquest and speak to new customers at the same time, and the combination of the two will allow us to generate great [brand] awareness and start to put Honda on a consideration list." More: Everything Honda Content originally sourced from: The Honda Prelude name will return to Australian showrooms for the first time in 25 years with its planned arrival in mid-2026, but it won't sit alongside any direct rivals nor set sales charts on fire, according to the brand. The Prelude was previously a mainstay in a highly competitive sports car market which has shrunk to a handful of models, including the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, Ford Mustang, Nissan Z and Toyota Supra. According to Honda, none of these are direct rivals to the 2026 Prelude, which will be the first to offer a hybrid powertrain. "By the nature of it, it's going to be a little bit in the market. There isn't going to be anything you can neatly say, it's a direct competitor of that – it's just seen in a lot of different spaces," said Honda Australia managing director, Rob Thorp. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The sentiment is backed up by Honda Australia CEO Jay Joseph, who told CarExpert: "Prelude is a really fun car, but it's not a high-volume car. "It's a bit of a Swiss Army Knife – it really doesn't fit neatly into a segment and I think that's the opportunity that we get to leverage." In the Prelude's final year in Australia, 2001, total sales across the 'Sports' segment were 8820 across all makes, making up 1.14 per cent of all the 772,681 new vehicles sold that year. In 2024, the same Sports segment saw 10,633 sales, making up an even smaller 0.87 per cent share of all new cars sold (not including brands like Mahindra, Tesla and Polestar brands, which don't report to the official VFACTS figures, and would reduce this number further). While the price of the Prelude in Australia is yet to be announced, it will enter a dramatically different battleground when it returns in mid-2026 – but does the sports car market have room for another competitor in Prelude? "Yes, we think it does," Honda Australia managing director Ron Thorp told CarExpert. "We've actually been planning this for a little while, and … the nature of the model is it doesn't fit a market segment easily. "It will, from a VFACTS perspective and pricing, but the customer who we think will be interested, it's going to be quite a wide, broad base." "If you look at [Civic] Type R, we know who wants to buy Type R," Mr Thorp said. "Looking at the Prelude, it could be a sports cars person, but you could sort of see, to be honest, older males who used to own them back in the 90s buying them again – I think it's going to reattract a lot of consumers back to the Honda brand. "You can see it opening up to a female audience as well because of the way it looks and drives and handles. "We sort of think that this is where the customer segment group might be," Mr Thorp said, with the Prelude potentially able to "attract a lot of different people from a lot of different areas". "It's also going to provide an opportunity to actually conquest and speak to new customers at the same time, and the combination of the two will allow us to generate great [brand] awareness and start to put Honda on a consideration list." More: Everything Honda Content originally sourced from: The Honda Prelude name will return to Australian showrooms for the first time in 25 years with its planned arrival in mid-2026, but it won't sit alongside any direct rivals nor set sales charts on fire, according to the brand. The Prelude was previously a mainstay in a highly competitive sports car market which has shrunk to a handful of models, including the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, Ford Mustang, Nissan Z and Toyota Supra. According to Honda, none of these are direct rivals to the 2026 Prelude, which will be the first to offer a hybrid powertrain. "By the nature of it, it's going to be a little bit in the market. There isn't going to be anything you can neatly say, it's a direct competitor of that – it's just seen in a lot of different spaces," said Honda Australia managing director, Rob Thorp. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The sentiment is backed up by Honda Australia CEO Jay Joseph, who told CarExpert: "Prelude is a really fun car, but it's not a high-volume car. "It's a bit of a Swiss Army Knife – it really doesn't fit neatly into a segment and I think that's the opportunity that we get to leverage." In the Prelude's final year in Australia, 2001, total sales across the 'Sports' segment were 8820 across all makes, making up 1.14 per cent of all the 772,681 new vehicles sold that year. In 2024, the same Sports segment saw 10,633 sales, making up an even smaller 0.87 per cent share of all new cars sold (not including brands like Mahindra, Tesla and Polestar brands, which don't report to the official VFACTS figures, and would reduce this number further). While the price of the Prelude in Australia is yet to be announced, it will enter a dramatically different battleground when it returns in mid-2026 – but does the sports car market have room for another competitor in Prelude? "Yes, we think it does," Honda Australia managing director Ron Thorp told CarExpert. "We've actually been planning this for a little while, and … the nature of the model is it doesn't fit a market segment easily. "It will, from a VFACTS perspective and pricing, but the customer who we think will be interested, it's going to be quite a wide, broad base." "If you look at [Civic] Type R, we know who wants to buy Type R," Mr Thorp said. "Looking at the Prelude, it could be a sports cars person, but you could sort of see, to be honest, older males who used to own them back in the 90s buying them again – I think it's going to reattract a lot of consumers back to the Honda brand. "You can see it opening up to a female audience as well because of the way it looks and drives and handles. "We sort of think that this is where the customer segment group might be," Mr Thorp said, with the Prelude potentially able to "attract a lot of different people from a lot of different areas". "It's also going to provide an opportunity to actually conquest and speak to new customers at the same time, and the combination of the two will allow us to generate great [brand] awareness and start to put Honda on a consideration list." More: Everything Honda Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
13 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Ford posts $77.6 billion record revenue amid tariff losses
Ford has posted a $US36 million ($A55.9 million) loss in the second quarter (April-June) of 2025, the least of the US 'Big Three' since the introduction of import tariffs in the United States (US). In the first reporting period since US President Donald Trump introduced automotive tariffs – followed by broader tariffs unsettling the industry – Ford also announced a 22 per cent fall in earnings to $2.1 billion ($A3.26 billion). Yet the automaker said it achieved record quarterly revenue during the period of $US50.2 billion ($A77.6 billion), up 5.5 per cent year-on-year. Ford's commercial vehicle division, led by products including the Ford Ranger, F-150 and Transit, was the biggest contributor to the result, with US$2.3 billion (A$3.56bn) in profits. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The automaker continued to post losses on winding down its electric vehicle (EV) programs, with a $US1.3 billion ($A2.0 billion) loss after an $US849 million ($A1.3 billion) Q1 loss and $US5.1 billion ($A7.9 billion) loss for the full year 2024. Ford's announcement follows results from rival US company General Motors (GM) which posted a $US1.1 billion ($A1.7 billion) loss of the last three month to the end of June, laying the blame for the loss entirely on the introduction of tariffs on imported vehicles, materials and parts. Rival Stellantis, Netherlands-based owner of iconic US brands Chrysler, Jeep, Ram Trucks and Dodge, posted a €2.3 billion (A$4.1 billion) loss for the first half of 2025. Bill Ford – great grandson of company founder, Henry Ford – said after the April 2, 2025, introduction of tariffs the automaker was to be the least impacted, given it has the largest US manufacturing footprint. US President Trump said the tariffs were designed to strengthen local manufacturing, with Ford since pushing the slogan "Ford Motor Company. From America. For America." On this week's call, Ford said it expects the tariffs to cost more than previously, increasing its earlier $US1.5 billion prediction to $US2 billion ($A3.11 billion) for the full year in 2025, with a total impact estimated to be $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion). The automaker took out a $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion) line of credit on July 29, the day before the earnings call. It enacted counter measures when the tariffs hit, such as offering staff pricing to all US customers to stave off predicted increases in showroom prices and also capitalise on margins of vehicles not impacted by tariffs. The move was followed by Stellantis for its brands in the US shortly after. Ford chief financial officer Sherry House said higher-than-expected tariffs on parts as well as a doubling of the duties on steel and aluminium to 50 per cent were the reason for the predicted higher costs of tariffs. "We recorded our fourth consecutive quarter of year-over-year cost improvement, excluding the impact of tariffs, building on progress we made last year when we closed roughly $1.5 billion [$A2.3 billion] of our competitive cost gap in material cost," Ms House said in a statement. "Our balance sheet keeps getting stronger, further enabling our ability to invest in areas of strength. We are remaking Ford into a higher-growth, higher-margin and more durable business — and allocating capital where we can compete, win and grow." Ford revised its earnings forecast for the year to $US6.5-7.5 billion ($A10.1-11.6 billion), having withdrawn previous guidance of $US7-8.5 billion ($A10.9-$13.2 billion). MORE: Ford slowing electric car rollout as losses mount MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from: Ford has posted a $US36 million ($A55.9 million) loss in the second quarter (April-June) of 2025, the least of the US 'Big Three' since the introduction of import tariffs in the United States (US). In the first reporting period since US President Donald Trump introduced automotive tariffs – followed by broader tariffs unsettling the industry – Ford also announced a 22 per cent fall in earnings to $2.1 billion ($A3.26 billion). Yet the automaker said it achieved record quarterly revenue during the period of $US50.2 billion ($A77.6 billion), up 5.5 per cent year-on-year. Ford's commercial vehicle division, led by products including the Ford Ranger, F-150 and Transit, was the biggest contributor to the result, with US$2.3 billion (A$3.56bn) in profits. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The automaker continued to post losses on winding down its electric vehicle (EV) programs, with a $US1.3 billion ($A2.0 billion) loss after an $US849 million ($A1.3 billion) Q1 loss and $US5.1 billion ($A7.9 billion) loss for the full year 2024. Ford's announcement follows results from rival US company General Motors (GM) which posted a $US1.1 billion ($A1.7 billion) loss of the last three month to the end of June, laying the blame for the loss entirely on the introduction of tariffs on imported vehicles, materials and parts. Rival Stellantis, Netherlands-based owner of iconic US brands Chrysler, Jeep, Ram Trucks and Dodge, posted a €2.3 billion (A$4.1 billion) loss for the first half of 2025. Bill Ford – great grandson of company founder, Henry Ford – said after the April 2, 2025, introduction of tariffs the automaker was to be the least impacted, given it has the largest US manufacturing footprint. US President Trump said the tariffs were designed to strengthen local manufacturing, with Ford since pushing the slogan "Ford Motor Company. From America. For America." On this week's call, Ford said it expects the tariffs to cost more than previously, increasing its earlier $US1.5 billion prediction to $US2 billion ($A3.11 billion) for the full year in 2025, with a total impact estimated to be $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion). The automaker took out a $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion) line of credit on July 29, the day before the earnings call. It enacted counter measures when the tariffs hit, such as offering staff pricing to all US customers to stave off predicted increases in showroom prices and also capitalise on margins of vehicles not impacted by tariffs. The move was followed by Stellantis for its brands in the US shortly after. Ford chief financial officer Sherry House said higher-than-expected tariffs on parts as well as a doubling of the duties on steel and aluminium to 50 per cent were the reason for the predicted higher costs of tariffs. "We recorded our fourth consecutive quarter of year-over-year cost improvement, excluding the impact of tariffs, building on progress we made last year when we closed roughly $1.5 billion [$A2.3 billion] of our competitive cost gap in material cost," Ms House said in a statement. "Our balance sheet keeps getting stronger, further enabling our ability to invest in areas of strength. We are remaking Ford into a higher-growth, higher-margin and more durable business — and allocating capital where we can compete, win and grow." Ford revised its earnings forecast for the year to $US6.5-7.5 billion ($A10.1-11.6 billion), having withdrawn previous guidance of $US7-8.5 billion ($A10.9-$13.2 billion). MORE: Ford slowing electric car rollout as losses mount MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from: Ford has posted a $US36 million ($A55.9 million) loss in the second quarter (April-June) of 2025, the least of the US 'Big Three' since the introduction of import tariffs in the United States (US). In the first reporting period since US President Donald Trump introduced automotive tariffs – followed by broader tariffs unsettling the industry – Ford also announced a 22 per cent fall in earnings to $2.1 billion ($A3.26 billion). Yet the automaker said it achieved record quarterly revenue during the period of $US50.2 billion ($A77.6 billion), up 5.5 per cent year-on-year. Ford's commercial vehicle division, led by products including the Ford Ranger, F-150 and Transit, was the biggest contributor to the result, with US$2.3 billion (A$3.56bn) in profits. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The automaker continued to post losses on winding down its electric vehicle (EV) programs, with a $US1.3 billion ($A2.0 billion) loss after an $US849 million ($A1.3 billion) Q1 loss and $US5.1 billion ($A7.9 billion) loss for the full year 2024. Ford's announcement follows results from rival US company General Motors (GM) which posted a $US1.1 billion ($A1.7 billion) loss of the last three month to the end of June, laying the blame for the loss entirely on the introduction of tariffs on imported vehicles, materials and parts. Rival Stellantis, Netherlands-based owner of iconic US brands Chrysler, Jeep, Ram Trucks and Dodge, posted a €2.3 billion (A$4.1 billion) loss for the first half of 2025. Bill Ford – great grandson of company founder, Henry Ford – said after the April 2, 2025, introduction of tariffs the automaker was to be the least impacted, given it has the largest US manufacturing footprint. US President Trump said the tariffs were designed to strengthen local manufacturing, with Ford since pushing the slogan "Ford Motor Company. From America. For America." On this week's call, Ford said it expects the tariffs to cost more than previously, increasing its earlier $US1.5 billion prediction to $US2 billion ($A3.11 billion) for the full year in 2025, with a total impact estimated to be $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion). The automaker took out a $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion) line of credit on July 29, the day before the earnings call. It enacted counter measures when the tariffs hit, such as offering staff pricing to all US customers to stave off predicted increases in showroom prices and also capitalise on margins of vehicles not impacted by tariffs. The move was followed by Stellantis for its brands in the US shortly after. Ford chief financial officer Sherry House said higher-than-expected tariffs on parts as well as a doubling of the duties on steel and aluminium to 50 per cent were the reason for the predicted higher costs of tariffs. "We recorded our fourth consecutive quarter of year-over-year cost improvement, excluding the impact of tariffs, building on progress we made last year when we closed roughly $1.5 billion [$A2.3 billion] of our competitive cost gap in material cost," Ms House said in a statement. "Our balance sheet keeps getting stronger, further enabling our ability to invest in areas of strength. We are remaking Ford into a higher-growth, higher-margin and more durable business — and allocating capital where we can compete, win and grow." Ford revised its earnings forecast for the year to $US6.5-7.5 billion ($A10.1-11.6 billion), having withdrawn previous guidance of $US7-8.5 billion ($A10.9-$13.2 billion). MORE: Ford slowing electric car rollout as losses mount MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from: Ford has posted a $US36 million ($A55.9 million) loss in the second quarter (April-June) of 2025, the least of the US 'Big Three' since the introduction of import tariffs in the United States (US). In the first reporting period since US President Donald Trump introduced automotive tariffs – followed by broader tariffs unsettling the industry – Ford also announced a 22 per cent fall in earnings to $2.1 billion ($A3.26 billion). Yet the automaker said it achieved record quarterly revenue during the period of $US50.2 billion ($A77.6 billion), up 5.5 per cent year-on-year. Ford's commercial vehicle division, led by products including the Ford Ranger, F-150 and Transit, was the biggest contributor to the result, with US$2.3 billion (A$3.56bn) in profits. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The automaker continued to post losses on winding down its electric vehicle (EV) programs, with a $US1.3 billion ($A2.0 billion) loss after an $US849 million ($A1.3 billion) Q1 loss and $US5.1 billion ($A7.9 billion) loss for the full year 2024. Ford's announcement follows results from rival US company General Motors (GM) which posted a $US1.1 billion ($A1.7 billion) loss of the last three month to the end of June, laying the blame for the loss entirely on the introduction of tariffs on imported vehicles, materials and parts. Rival Stellantis, Netherlands-based owner of iconic US brands Chrysler, Jeep, Ram Trucks and Dodge, posted a €2.3 billion (A$4.1 billion) loss for the first half of 2025. Bill Ford – great grandson of company founder, Henry Ford – said after the April 2, 2025, introduction of tariffs the automaker was to be the least impacted, given it has the largest US manufacturing footprint. US President Trump said the tariffs were designed to strengthen local manufacturing, with Ford since pushing the slogan "Ford Motor Company. From America. For America." On this week's call, Ford said it expects the tariffs to cost more than previously, increasing its earlier $US1.5 billion prediction to $US2 billion ($A3.11 billion) for the full year in 2025, with a total impact estimated to be $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion). The automaker took out a $US3 billion ($A4.66 billion) line of credit on July 29, the day before the earnings call. It enacted counter measures when the tariffs hit, such as offering staff pricing to all US customers to stave off predicted increases in showroom prices and also capitalise on margins of vehicles not impacted by tariffs. The move was followed by Stellantis for its brands in the US shortly after. Ford chief financial officer Sherry House said higher-than-expected tariffs on parts as well as a doubling of the duties on steel and aluminium to 50 per cent were the reason for the predicted higher costs of tariffs. "We recorded our fourth consecutive quarter of year-over-year cost improvement, excluding the impact of tariffs, building on progress we made last year when we closed roughly $1.5 billion [$A2.3 billion] of our competitive cost gap in material cost," Ms House said in a statement. "Our balance sheet keeps getting stronger, further enabling our ability to invest in areas of strength. We are remaking Ford into a higher-growth, higher-margin and more durable business — and allocating capital where we can compete, win and grow." Ford revised its earnings forecast for the year to $US6.5-7.5 billion ($A10.1-11.6 billion), having withdrawn previous guidance of $US7-8.5 billion ($A10.9-$13.2 billion). MORE: Ford slowing electric car rollout as losses mount MORE: Everything Ford Content originally sourced from:
