Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
'First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space,' he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
'Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help.'
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
'Ultimately though, consumers will choose. What we see playing out is we're going to continue to offer [internal combustion] for as long as it's possible, again because consumers will choose,' Mr Lawrence told CarExpert.
'We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain.'
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
'I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand,' Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, 'no'.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
7NEWS
23 minutes ago
- 7NEWS
2025 Renault Koleos price and specs: Ageing mid-size SUV gets tweaked flagship
The Renault Koleos has received minor tweaks for model year 2025 (MY25), with the flagship trim level receiving a name change and cosmetic tweaks to align it with newer models. The Intens has been renamed Techno, and has also received new 19-inch alloy wheels. Pricing is unchanged from the Intens at $39,990 before on-road costs for the front-wheel drive variant, and $42,490 before on-roads for the all-wheel drive version. The base Evolution continues to be offered for $34,990 before on-road costs, or $36,990 drive-away until September 30. Renault is also offering the Koleos Intens with on-road costs included until July 31. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Renault Koleos. Click here to get a great deal. 'This freshen-up means we can continue to offer a premium mid-size SUV at an attainable price point,' said Renault Australia general manager Glen Sealey. 'We know there is a lot of competition in the mid-size SUV market but our customers appreciate the ease of functionality of our car. 'The cabin controls are familiar and easy to use, and our safety systems are intuitive and not intrusive, all while keeping you safe on the road. 'This update to our flagship model gives buyers a reason to take a closer look and add it to their consideration list in one of the most hotly contested segments of the new-car market.' The Koleos is among the oldest vehicles in its segment, having entered production in 2016, and Renault still has yet to announce a replacement for Australia. It's set to continue into 2026, with a 'different vehicle' launching 'maybe' next year. It's unclear if this will be one of Renault's European-market SUVs, such as the Espace, or the Geely-sourced Grand Koleos that's built in Korea like the Koleos. Despite being almost a decade old, the Koleos is Renault Australia's best-selling model that isn't a van. It has found 424 new homes so far this year, down 29.5 per cent on the same period last year. Pricing Drivetrains and Efficiency The Koleos is closely related to the previous-generation Nissan X-Trail. It's offered with only one engine in Australia. Dimensions Servicing and Warranty The Renault Koleos is backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. It requires servicing every 12 months or 30,000km, whichever comes first. The first five services are capped at $429, $429, $429, $999 and $429, respectively, resulting in a total five-year servicing cost of $2715. Safety The Renault Koleos is currently unrated by safety authority ANCAP, as its five-star rating from 2017 expired on December 31, 2023. Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Autonomous emergency braking Blind-spot monitoring Lane departure warning Reversing camera Front, rear and side parking sensors Front, front-side and curtain airbags No Koleos is available with increasingly common active safety and driver assist features such as lane-keep assist or adaptive cruise control. Standard Equipment There are two trim levels in the 2025 Koleos lineup. The base Evolution comes standard with the following equipment: 18-inch alloy wheels in 225/60 R18 tyres 17-inch steel spare Automatic LED headlights Rain-sensing wipers Rear privacy glass Power-folding exterior mirrors Hands-free power tailgate Electric parking brake Semi-autonomous parking assist Proximity entry with push-button start with walk-away locking 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster screen 8.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Satellite navigation 8-speaker Arkamys sound system DAB digital radio Power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar Auto-dimming rear-view mirror Leather upholstery Heated and cooled cupholders Dual-zone climate control with rear air vents Ambient lighting Leather-wrapped steering wheel The Techno adds: 19-inch alloy wheels in 225/55 R19 tyres Hill descent control (4×4 only) Panoramic sunroof Ventilated front seats Driver's seat memory Power passenger seat with memory Front seats with cushion length adjustment, 'relax' headrests Nappa leather upholstery Woodgrain interior trim Colours All 2025 Koleos models come standard with a black interior. Millesim Red is the standard exterior paint colour, with the following finishes costing an extra $800: Universal White Metallic Grey Metallic Black
Perth Now
23 minutes ago
- Perth Now
2025 Renault Koleos price and specs: Ageing mid-size SUV gets tweaked flagship
The Renault Koleos has received minor tweaks for model year 2025 (MY25), with the flagship trim level receiving a name change and cosmetic tweaks to align it with newer models. The Intens has been renamed Techno, and has also received new 19-inch alloy wheels. Pricing is unchanged from the Intens at $39,990 before on-road costs for the front-wheel drive variant, and $42,490 before on-roads for the all-wheel drive version. The base Evolution continues to be offered for $34,990 before on-road costs, or $36,990 drive-away until September 30. Renault is also offering the Koleos Intens with on-road costs included until July 31. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Renault Koleos. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'This freshen-up means we can continue to offer a premium mid-size SUV at an attainable price point,' said Renault Australia general manager Glen Sealey. 'We know there is a lot of competition in the mid-size SUV market but our customers appreciate the ease of functionality of our car. 'The cabin controls are familiar and easy to use, and our safety systems are intuitive and not intrusive, all while keeping you safe on the road. 'This update to our flagship model gives buyers a reason to take a closer look and add it to their consideration list in one of the most hotly contested segments of the new-car market.' Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Koleos is among the oldest vehicles in its segment, having entered production in 2016, and Renault still has yet to announce a replacement for Australia. It's set to continue into 2026, with a 'different vehicle' launching 'maybe' next year. It's unclear if this will be one of Renault's European-market SUVs, such as the Espace, or the Geely-sourced Grand Koleos that's built in Korea like the Koleos. Despite being almost a decade old, the Koleos is Renault Australia's best-selling model that isn't a van. It has found 424 new homes so far this year, down 29.5 per cent on the same period last year. The Koleos is closely related to the previous-generation Nissan X-Trail. It's offered with only one engine in Australia. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Renault Koleos is backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Supplied Credit: CarExpert It requires servicing every 12 months or 30,000km, whichever comes first. The first five services are capped at $429, $429, $429, $999 and $429, respectively, resulting in a total five-year servicing cost of $2715. The Renault Koleos is currently unrated by safety authority ANCAP, as its five-star rating from 2017 expired on December 31, 2023. Standard safety equipment across the range includes: Autonomous emergency braking Blind-spot monitoring Lane departure warning Reversing camera Front, rear and side parking sensors Front, front-side and curtain airbags No Koleos is available with increasingly common active safety and driver assist features such as lane-keep assist or adaptive cruise control. There are two trim levels in the 2025 Koleos lineup. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The base Evolution comes standard with the following equipment: 18-inch alloy wheels in 225/60 R18 tyres 17-inch steel spare Automatic LED headlights Rain-sensing wipers Rear privacy glass Power-folding exterior mirrors Hands-free power tailgate Electric parking brake Semi-autonomous parking assist Proximity entry with push-button start with walk-away locking 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster screen 8.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Satellite navigation 8-speaker Arkamys sound system DAB digital radio Power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar Auto-dimming rear-view mirror Leather upholstery Heated and cooled cupholders Dual-zone climate control with rear air vents Ambient lighting Leather-wrapped steering wheel The Techno adds: 19-inch alloy wheels in 225/55 R19 tyres Hill descent control (4×4 only) Panoramic sunroof Ventilated front seats Driver's seat memory Power passenger seat with memory Front seats with cushion length adjustment, 'relax' headrests Nappa leather upholstery Woodgrain interior trim All 2025 Koleos models come standard with a black interior. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Millesim Red is the standard exterior paint colour, with the following finishes costing an extra $800: Universal White Metallic Grey Metallic Black MORE: Explore the Renault Koleos showroom
The Advertiser
15 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2026 Hyundai Palisade: V6 and diesel to be axed in favour of four-cylinder and hybrid
Details of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade have been uncovered ahead of second-generation large flagship SUV's scheduled Australian arrival in late 2025. The new Palisade had already been confirmed to bring a hybrid powertrain for the first time – replacing the existing 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder – in order to rival the Toyota Kluger, and Hyundai had previously also said a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine was "under study" for Australia. Now Australian government certification documents confirm the next Palisade will offer a full range of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, powered by both hybrid and non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol powertrains. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No other engines are included in the filing, signalling the end of not only diesel power but also the 3.8-litre petrol V6 from the new Palisade lineup. The Australian Design Rule documents also show the next-generation Palisade, codenamed 'LX3', has again been approved in both seven- and eight-seat interior configurations. Hyundai Australia could not share any details on the new Santa Fe's powertrain options or otherwise when contacted by CarExpert. The Palisade HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) has been granted approval in four model grades – seven-seat front-drive and AWD, and eight-seat FWD and AWD. The Palisade HEV is already on sale in the US, where it's offered in both FWD and AWD layouts, both priced $US1000 ($1537) higher than equivalent petrol-powered versions. In Australia, the HEV is expected to be priced similarly to the existing diesel Palisade, which is currently priced from $70,800 before on-road costs, although Hyundai is currently offering drive-away deals on certain variants. The hybrid system comprises the Hyundai group's 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (T-GDI) and six-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission, but adds a single electric motor powered by a 1.65kWh lithium-ion battery. US-market Palisade hybrids are rated at 258hp (245kW) and 339lb-ft (460Nm) of torque, and while these figures cannot be directly carried over to Australian vehicles, our Palisade hybrid should still out-muscle the turbo-diesel's 147kW/440Nm outputs. That will also make it more powerful than the 3.8-litre V6 in the current model, which makes 217kW/355Nm and has official combined fuel consumption figures of between 10.8-11.1L/100km. Based on overseas specs, the Palisade HEV will be marginally thirstier than the diesel, with average consumption of 8.8L/100km against the diesel's 8.6-8.8L/100km. The Palisade's non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four – already seen under the bonnet of the Hyundai Sonata N Line in Australia, where it makes 213kW/422Nm – has also been approved in seven and eight-seat Palisade, in both FWD and AWD forms. ADR documents also confirm the second-generation Palisade will be larger than its predecessor in almost every dimension, growing an additional 65mm to 5060mm in length on a 70mm longer (2970mm) wheelbase. Overseas specs show no change in cargo volume or cabin space between petrol and hybrid versions. The cabin is expected to feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, plus a more premium look including 'pixel' lighting elements. Further details are expected to be confirmed by Hyundai Australia as the MkII Palisade's Australian arrival – scheduled between October and December this year – draws near. MORE: Everything Hyundai Content originally sourced from: Details of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade have been uncovered ahead of second-generation large flagship SUV's scheduled Australian arrival in late 2025. The new Palisade had already been confirmed to bring a hybrid powertrain for the first time – replacing the existing 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder – in order to rival the Toyota Kluger, and Hyundai had previously also said a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine was "under study" for Australia. Now Australian government certification documents confirm the next Palisade will offer a full range of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, powered by both hybrid and non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol powertrains. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No other engines are included in the filing, signalling the end of not only diesel power but also the 3.8-litre petrol V6 from the new Palisade lineup. The Australian Design Rule documents also show the next-generation Palisade, codenamed 'LX3', has again been approved in both seven- and eight-seat interior configurations. Hyundai Australia could not share any details on the new Santa Fe's powertrain options or otherwise when contacted by CarExpert. The Palisade HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) has been granted approval in four model grades – seven-seat front-drive and AWD, and eight-seat FWD and AWD. The Palisade HEV is already on sale in the US, where it's offered in both FWD and AWD layouts, both priced $US1000 ($1537) higher than equivalent petrol-powered versions. In Australia, the HEV is expected to be priced similarly to the existing diesel Palisade, which is currently priced from $70,800 before on-road costs, although Hyundai is currently offering drive-away deals on certain variants. The hybrid system comprises the Hyundai group's 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (T-GDI) and six-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission, but adds a single electric motor powered by a 1.65kWh lithium-ion battery. US-market Palisade hybrids are rated at 258hp (245kW) and 339lb-ft (460Nm) of torque, and while these figures cannot be directly carried over to Australian vehicles, our Palisade hybrid should still out-muscle the turbo-diesel's 147kW/440Nm outputs. That will also make it more powerful than the 3.8-litre V6 in the current model, which makes 217kW/355Nm and has official combined fuel consumption figures of between 10.8-11.1L/100km. Based on overseas specs, the Palisade HEV will be marginally thirstier than the diesel, with average consumption of 8.8L/100km against the diesel's 8.6-8.8L/100km. The Palisade's non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four – already seen under the bonnet of the Hyundai Sonata N Line in Australia, where it makes 213kW/422Nm – has also been approved in seven and eight-seat Palisade, in both FWD and AWD forms. ADR documents also confirm the second-generation Palisade will be larger than its predecessor in almost every dimension, growing an additional 65mm to 5060mm in length on a 70mm longer (2970mm) wheelbase. Overseas specs show no change in cargo volume or cabin space between petrol and hybrid versions. The cabin is expected to feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, plus a more premium look including 'pixel' lighting elements. Further details are expected to be confirmed by Hyundai Australia as the MkII Palisade's Australian arrival – scheduled between October and December this year – draws near. MORE: Everything Hyundai Content originally sourced from: Details of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade have been uncovered ahead of second-generation large flagship SUV's scheduled Australian arrival in late 2025. The new Palisade had already been confirmed to bring a hybrid powertrain for the first time – replacing the existing 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder – in order to rival the Toyota Kluger, and Hyundai had previously also said a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine was "under study" for Australia. Now Australian government certification documents confirm the next Palisade will offer a full range of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, powered by both hybrid and non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol powertrains. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No other engines are included in the filing, signalling the end of not only diesel power but also the 3.8-litre petrol V6 from the new Palisade lineup. The Australian Design Rule documents also show the next-generation Palisade, codenamed 'LX3', has again been approved in both seven- and eight-seat interior configurations. Hyundai Australia could not share any details on the new Santa Fe's powertrain options or otherwise when contacted by CarExpert. The Palisade HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) has been granted approval in four model grades – seven-seat front-drive and AWD, and eight-seat FWD and AWD. The Palisade HEV is already on sale in the US, where it's offered in both FWD and AWD layouts, both priced $US1000 ($1537) higher than equivalent petrol-powered versions. In Australia, the HEV is expected to be priced similarly to the existing diesel Palisade, which is currently priced from $70,800 before on-road costs, although Hyundai is currently offering drive-away deals on certain variants. The hybrid system comprises the Hyundai group's 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (T-GDI) and six-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission, but adds a single electric motor powered by a 1.65kWh lithium-ion battery. US-market Palisade hybrids are rated at 258hp (245kW) and 339lb-ft (460Nm) of torque, and while these figures cannot be directly carried over to Australian vehicles, our Palisade hybrid should still out-muscle the turbo-diesel's 147kW/440Nm outputs. That will also make it more powerful than the 3.8-litre V6 in the current model, which makes 217kW/355Nm and has official combined fuel consumption figures of between 10.8-11.1L/100km. Based on overseas specs, the Palisade HEV will be marginally thirstier than the diesel, with average consumption of 8.8L/100km against the diesel's 8.6-8.8L/100km. The Palisade's non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four – already seen under the bonnet of the Hyundai Sonata N Line in Australia, where it makes 213kW/422Nm – has also been approved in seven and eight-seat Palisade, in both FWD and AWD forms. ADR documents also confirm the second-generation Palisade will be larger than its predecessor in almost every dimension, growing an additional 65mm to 5060mm in length on a 70mm longer (2970mm) wheelbase. Overseas specs show no change in cargo volume or cabin space between petrol and hybrid versions. The cabin is expected to feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, plus a more premium look including 'pixel' lighting elements. Further details are expected to be confirmed by Hyundai Australia as the MkII Palisade's Australian arrival – scheduled between October and December this year – draws near. MORE: Everything Hyundai Content originally sourced from: Details of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade have been uncovered ahead of second-generation large flagship SUV's scheduled Australian arrival in late 2025. The new Palisade had already been confirmed to bring a hybrid powertrain for the first time – replacing the existing 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder – in order to rival the Toyota Kluger, and Hyundai had previously also said a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine was "under study" for Australia. Now Australian government certification documents confirm the next Palisade will offer a full range of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, powered by both hybrid and non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol powertrains. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. No other engines are included in the filing, signalling the end of not only diesel power but also the 3.8-litre petrol V6 from the new Palisade lineup. The Australian Design Rule documents also show the next-generation Palisade, codenamed 'LX3', has again been approved in both seven- and eight-seat interior configurations. Hyundai Australia could not share any details on the new Santa Fe's powertrain options or otherwise when contacted by CarExpert. The Palisade HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) has been granted approval in four model grades – seven-seat front-drive and AWD, and eight-seat FWD and AWD. The Palisade HEV is already on sale in the US, where it's offered in both FWD and AWD layouts, both priced $US1000 ($1537) higher than equivalent petrol-powered versions. In Australia, the HEV is expected to be priced similarly to the existing diesel Palisade, which is currently priced from $70,800 before on-road costs, although Hyundai is currently offering drive-away deals on certain variants. The hybrid system comprises the Hyundai group's 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (T-GDI) and six-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission, but adds a single electric motor powered by a 1.65kWh lithium-ion battery. US-market Palisade hybrids are rated at 258hp (245kW) and 339lb-ft (460Nm) of torque, and while these figures cannot be directly carried over to Australian vehicles, our Palisade hybrid should still out-muscle the turbo-diesel's 147kW/440Nm outputs. That will also make it more powerful than the 3.8-litre V6 in the current model, which makes 217kW/355Nm and has official combined fuel consumption figures of between 10.8-11.1L/100km. Based on overseas specs, the Palisade HEV will be marginally thirstier than the diesel, with average consumption of 8.8L/100km against the diesel's 8.6-8.8L/100km. The Palisade's non-hybrid 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four – already seen under the bonnet of the Hyundai Sonata N Line in Australia, where it makes 213kW/422Nm – has also been approved in seven and eight-seat Palisade, in both FWD and AWD forms. ADR documents also confirm the second-generation Palisade will be larger than its predecessor in almost every dimension, growing an additional 65mm to 5060mm in length on a 70mm longer (2970mm) wheelbase. Overseas specs show no change in cargo volume or cabin space between petrol and hybrid versions. The cabin is expected to feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, plus a more premium look including 'pixel' lighting elements. Further details are expected to be confirmed by Hyundai Australia as the MkII Palisade's Australian arrival – scheduled between October and December this year – draws near. MORE: Everything Hyundai Content originally sourced from:
