CarExpert Choice winner: Best Electrified Ute
It beat out two electrified dual-cab finalists – the plug-in hybrid BYD Shark 6 and the all-electric LDV e-T60.
The Ford Ranger PHEV was launched too late to qualify, while fresh electric and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) entrants such as the LDV eTerron 9 aren't yet available.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
When it comes to electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid utes in Australia, there aren't many… but that doesn't mean the Cannon Alpha PHEV wins by default.
It has impressive off-road capability thanks to front and rear differential locks and a proper four-wheel drive system with low range, plus a full 3500kg towing capacity, while offering a luxurious cabin with plenty of kit and sharp pricing.
To top it off, it offers the impressively low fuel consumption and relatively long electric range expected of a PHEV ute. That's why it takes this award.
2025 CarExpert Choice: Best Electrified Ute
Winner – GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV
Finalist – BYD Shark 6
Finalist – LDV e-T60
To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here.
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The Advertiser
2 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake: Sleek petrol, EV wagon a chance for Australia
The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake has been revealed, offering electric power for the first time, and the all-new small premium wagon is a good chance for local release. "The CLA Shooting Brake is under consideration for the Australian market," said a Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson. It's launching in Europe in March 2026, while its four-door 'coupe' counterpart is already due to arrive here during the second half of 2026, following the new compact sedan's international launch this month. Should the new wagon arrive here, it would represent the return of the CLA Shooting Brake to Australia. The first generation was offered here, but Australia missed out on the second generation. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Thus far, Mercedes-Benz has revealed only electric versions – the CLA250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology and the CLA350 4Matic Shooting Brake with EQ Technology. Yes, that was just two, they just have really long names… This makes the CLA Shooting Brake the brand's first electric wagon. However, it won't be electric-only for long. Mercedes-Benz will launch CLA Shooting Brakes with 48V mild-hybrid petrol power early next year in Europe, with the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) supporting both combustion and electric powertrains. Mild-hybrid CLA Shooting Brakes will comprise a combustion engine and an electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing for electric coasting at speeds of around 100km/h as well as pure electric driving at "inner-city speeds". Electric versions feature either rear- or all-wheel drive, and use a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle; second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed additional electric variants are coming to join the two launch powertrains detailed below: Ahead of the B-pillar, the Shooting Brake is identical to the CLA sedan. However, there's naturally a longer roof, and this includes a one-piece panoramic glass panel with the optional ability to adjust the transparency via the touchscreen. This glass roof is also connected to the ambient lighting, and features 158 stars integrated into its surface that remain "almost invisible during the day"; light is fed to them from the front via LED modules, creating a unique visual experience at night. Here's how the CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology compares to its combustion-powered predecessor in terms of external dimensions: While it's longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in 14mm more front headroom and 7mm more rear headroom, rear legroom has dropped by 6mm and rear shoulder room by 13mm. The boot is also smaller at 455 litres, down 30L with a 15mm higher load floor. Once you drop the 40:20:40-split rear seats, load space expands to 1290L. However, this is still down 60L on the old model. Offsetting this is 101L of illuminated storage under the bonnet, though naturally this won't be available in upcoming mild-hybrid models. Inside the cabin, there's an available full-width MBUX Superscreen setup. This comprises a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 14-inch screen for the passenger which they can use for gaming or streaming media. Also available is a 12.2-inch head-up display. The CLA Shooting Brake features the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System ( and supports over-the-air software updates for not only the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system but also vehicle functions such as driver assistance systems. Speaking of MBUX, its new Virtual Assistant can handle multi-part queries, has a short-term memory so you can pick up queries later, and utilises both ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing Search. Mercedes-Benz claims it can even recognise emotions and react accordingly, "just like a good friend". It has a "living" avatar in the form of the Mercedes-Benz star, which is always visible on the touchscreen. The company has ensured important information, suggestions, and recently used apps are always visible on the 'Zero Layer' of the infotainment system. Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence uses map data from Google Maps, and plans the fastest and most convenient route and adds charging stops if necessary. The navigation can also activate battery preconditioning to ensure the battery is at the right temperature as you roll up to a charging station. Mercedes-Benz has responded to customer feedback, reintroducing roller and rocker switches for the new CLA Shooting Brake's steering wheel. The CLA Shooting Brake's interior can be had with leather, Artico leatherette and Artico/fabric combination upholstery in a range of colours, while interior trim options include brushed aluminium, wood, carbon-fibre and papered surfaces. A rocker switch is used for setting the cruise control speed, while a roller is used for media volume; touch-capacitive switches remain for other functions on the wheel. Mercedes-Benz has been shrinking its lineup of so-called Entry Luxury models. The A-Class and B-Class are getting the axe, but the GLA and GLB SUVs will survive another generation as the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake have done, moving to the new MMA platform. The next-generation GLA and GLB are also set to offer electric power, but will almost certainly ditch the standalone EQA and EQB nameplates for EV versions. MORE: Explore the Mercedes-Benz CLA showroom Content originally sourced from: The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake has been revealed, offering electric power for the first time, and the all-new small premium wagon is a good chance for local release. "The CLA Shooting Brake is under consideration for the Australian market," said a Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson. It's launching in Europe in March 2026, while its four-door 'coupe' counterpart is already due to arrive here during the second half of 2026, following the new compact sedan's international launch this month. Should the new wagon arrive here, it would represent the return of the CLA Shooting Brake to Australia. The first generation was offered here, but Australia missed out on the second generation. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Thus far, Mercedes-Benz has revealed only electric versions – the CLA250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology and the CLA350 4Matic Shooting Brake with EQ Technology. Yes, that was just two, they just have really long names… This makes the CLA Shooting Brake the brand's first electric wagon. However, it won't be electric-only for long. Mercedes-Benz will launch CLA Shooting Brakes with 48V mild-hybrid petrol power early next year in Europe, with the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) supporting both combustion and electric powertrains. Mild-hybrid CLA Shooting Brakes will comprise a combustion engine and an electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing for electric coasting at speeds of around 100km/h as well as pure electric driving at "inner-city speeds". Electric versions feature either rear- or all-wheel drive, and use a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle; second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed additional electric variants are coming to join the two launch powertrains detailed below: Ahead of the B-pillar, the Shooting Brake is identical to the CLA sedan. However, there's naturally a longer roof, and this includes a one-piece panoramic glass panel with the optional ability to adjust the transparency via the touchscreen. This glass roof is also connected to the ambient lighting, and features 158 stars integrated into its surface that remain "almost invisible during the day"; light is fed to them from the front via LED modules, creating a unique visual experience at night. Here's how the CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology compares to its combustion-powered predecessor in terms of external dimensions: While it's longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in 14mm more front headroom and 7mm more rear headroom, rear legroom has dropped by 6mm and rear shoulder room by 13mm. The boot is also smaller at 455 litres, down 30L with a 15mm higher load floor. Once you drop the 40:20:40-split rear seats, load space expands to 1290L. However, this is still down 60L on the old model. Offsetting this is 101L of illuminated storage under the bonnet, though naturally this won't be available in upcoming mild-hybrid models. Inside the cabin, there's an available full-width MBUX Superscreen setup. This comprises a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 14-inch screen for the passenger which they can use for gaming or streaming media. Also available is a 12.2-inch head-up display. The CLA Shooting Brake features the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System ( and supports over-the-air software updates for not only the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system but also vehicle functions such as driver assistance systems. Speaking of MBUX, its new Virtual Assistant can handle multi-part queries, has a short-term memory so you can pick up queries later, and utilises both ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing Search. Mercedes-Benz claims it can even recognise emotions and react accordingly, "just like a good friend". It has a "living" avatar in the form of the Mercedes-Benz star, which is always visible on the touchscreen. The company has ensured important information, suggestions, and recently used apps are always visible on the 'Zero Layer' of the infotainment system. Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence uses map data from Google Maps, and plans the fastest and most convenient route and adds charging stops if necessary. The navigation can also activate battery preconditioning to ensure the battery is at the right temperature as you roll up to a charging station. Mercedes-Benz has responded to customer feedback, reintroducing roller and rocker switches for the new CLA Shooting Brake's steering wheel. The CLA Shooting Brake's interior can be had with leather, Artico leatherette and Artico/fabric combination upholstery in a range of colours, while interior trim options include brushed aluminium, wood, carbon-fibre and papered surfaces. A rocker switch is used for setting the cruise control speed, while a roller is used for media volume; touch-capacitive switches remain for other functions on the wheel. Mercedes-Benz has been shrinking its lineup of so-called Entry Luxury models. The A-Class and B-Class are getting the axe, but the GLA and GLB SUVs will survive another generation as the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake have done, moving to the new MMA platform. The next-generation GLA and GLB are also set to offer electric power, but will almost certainly ditch the standalone EQA and EQB nameplates for EV versions. MORE: Explore the Mercedes-Benz CLA showroom Content originally sourced from: The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake has been revealed, offering electric power for the first time, and the all-new small premium wagon is a good chance for local release. "The CLA Shooting Brake is under consideration for the Australian market," said a Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson. It's launching in Europe in March 2026, while its four-door 'coupe' counterpart is already due to arrive here during the second half of 2026, following the new compact sedan's international launch this month. Should the new wagon arrive here, it would represent the return of the CLA Shooting Brake to Australia. The first generation was offered here, but Australia missed out on the second generation. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Thus far, Mercedes-Benz has revealed only electric versions – the CLA250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology and the CLA350 4Matic Shooting Brake with EQ Technology. Yes, that was just two, they just have really long names… This makes the CLA Shooting Brake the brand's first electric wagon. However, it won't be electric-only for long. Mercedes-Benz will launch CLA Shooting Brakes with 48V mild-hybrid petrol power early next year in Europe, with the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) supporting both combustion and electric powertrains. Mild-hybrid CLA Shooting Brakes will comprise a combustion engine and an electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing for electric coasting at speeds of around 100km/h as well as pure electric driving at "inner-city speeds". Electric versions feature either rear- or all-wheel drive, and use a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle; second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed additional electric variants are coming to join the two launch powertrains detailed below: Ahead of the B-pillar, the Shooting Brake is identical to the CLA sedan. However, there's naturally a longer roof, and this includes a one-piece panoramic glass panel with the optional ability to adjust the transparency via the touchscreen. This glass roof is also connected to the ambient lighting, and features 158 stars integrated into its surface that remain "almost invisible during the day"; light is fed to them from the front via LED modules, creating a unique visual experience at night. Here's how the CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology compares to its combustion-powered predecessor in terms of external dimensions: While it's longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in 14mm more front headroom and 7mm more rear headroom, rear legroom has dropped by 6mm and rear shoulder room by 13mm. The boot is also smaller at 455 litres, down 30L with a 15mm higher load floor. Once you drop the 40:20:40-split rear seats, load space expands to 1290L. However, this is still down 60L on the old model. Offsetting this is 101L of illuminated storage under the bonnet, though naturally this won't be available in upcoming mild-hybrid models. Inside the cabin, there's an available full-width MBUX Superscreen setup. This comprises a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 14-inch screen for the passenger which they can use for gaming or streaming media. Also available is a 12.2-inch head-up display. The CLA Shooting Brake features the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System ( and supports over-the-air software updates for not only the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system but also vehicle functions such as driver assistance systems. Speaking of MBUX, its new Virtual Assistant can handle multi-part queries, has a short-term memory so you can pick up queries later, and utilises both ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing Search. Mercedes-Benz claims it can even recognise emotions and react accordingly, "just like a good friend". It has a "living" avatar in the form of the Mercedes-Benz star, which is always visible on the touchscreen. The company has ensured important information, suggestions, and recently used apps are always visible on the 'Zero Layer' of the infotainment system. Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence uses map data from Google Maps, and plans the fastest and most convenient route and adds charging stops if necessary. The navigation can also activate battery preconditioning to ensure the battery is at the right temperature as you roll up to a charging station. Mercedes-Benz has responded to customer feedback, reintroducing roller and rocker switches for the new CLA Shooting Brake's steering wheel. The CLA Shooting Brake's interior can be had with leather, Artico leatherette and Artico/fabric combination upholstery in a range of colours, while interior trim options include brushed aluminium, wood, carbon-fibre and papered surfaces. A rocker switch is used for setting the cruise control speed, while a roller is used for media volume; touch-capacitive switches remain for other functions on the wheel. Mercedes-Benz has been shrinking its lineup of so-called Entry Luxury models. The A-Class and B-Class are getting the axe, but the GLA and GLB SUVs will survive another generation as the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake have done, moving to the new MMA platform. The next-generation GLA and GLB are also set to offer electric power, but will almost certainly ditch the standalone EQA and EQB nameplates for EV versions. MORE: Explore the Mercedes-Benz CLA showroom Content originally sourced from: The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake has been revealed, offering electric power for the first time, and the all-new small premium wagon is a good chance for local release. "The CLA Shooting Brake is under consideration for the Australian market," said a Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson. It's launching in Europe in March 2026, while its four-door 'coupe' counterpart is already due to arrive here during the second half of 2026, following the new compact sedan's international launch this month. Should the new wagon arrive here, it would represent the return of the CLA Shooting Brake to Australia. The first generation was offered here, but Australia missed out on the second generation. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Thus far, Mercedes-Benz has revealed only electric versions – the CLA250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology and the CLA350 4Matic Shooting Brake with EQ Technology. Yes, that was just two, they just have really long names… This makes the CLA Shooting Brake the brand's first electric wagon. However, it won't be electric-only for long. Mercedes-Benz will launch CLA Shooting Brakes with 48V mild-hybrid petrol power early next year in Europe, with the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) supporting both combustion and electric powertrains. Mild-hybrid CLA Shooting Brakes will comprise a combustion engine and an electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing for electric coasting at speeds of around 100km/h as well as pure electric driving at "inner-city speeds". Electric versions feature either rear- or all-wheel drive, and use a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle; second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed additional electric variants are coming to join the two launch powertrains detailed below: Ahead of the B-pillar, the Shooting Brake is identical to the CLA sedan. However, there's naturally a longer roof, and this includes a one-piece panoramic glass panel with the optional ability to adjust the transparency via the touchscreen. This glass roof is also connected to the ambient lighting, and features 158 stars integrated into its surface that remain "almost invisible during the day"; light is fed to them from the front via LED modules, creating a unique visual experience at night. Here's how the CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology compares to its combustion-powered predecessor in terms of external dimensions: While it's longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in 14mm more front headroom and 7mm more rear headroom, rear legroom has dropped by 6mm and rear shoulder room by 13mm. The boot is also smaller at 455 litres, down 30L with a 15mm higher load floor. Once you drop the 40:20:40-split rear seats, load space expands to 1290L. However, this is still down 60L on the old model. Offsetting this is 101L of illuminated storage under the bonnet, though naturally this won't be available in upcoming mild-hybrid models. Inside the cabin, there's an available full-width MBUX Superscreen setup. This comprises a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 14-inch screen for the passenger which they can use for gaming or streaming media. Also available is a 12.2-inch head-up display. The CLA Shooting Brake features the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System ( and supports over-the-air software updates for not only the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system but also vehicle functions such as driver assistance systems. Speaking of MBUX, its new Virtual Assistant can handle multi-part queries, has a short-term memory so you can pick up queries later, and utilises both ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing Search. Mercedes-Benz claims it can even recognise emotions and react accordingly, "just like a good friend". It has a "living" avatar in the form of the Mercedes-Benz star, which is always visible on the touchscreen. The company has ensured important information, suggestions, and recently used apps are always visible on the 'Zero Layer' of the infotainment system. Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence uses map data from Google Maps, and plans the fastest and most convenient route and adds charging stops if necessary. The navigation can also activate battery preconditioning to ensure the battery is at the right temperature as you roll up to a charging station. Mercedes-Benz has responded to customer feedback, reintroducing roller and rocker switches for the new CLA Shooting Brake's steering wheel. The CLA Shooting Brake's interior can be had with leather, Artico leatherette and Artico/fabric combination upholstery in a range of colours, while interior trim options include brushed aluminium, wood, carbon-fibre and papered surfaces. A rocker switch is used for setting the cruise control speed, while a roller is used for media volume; touch-capacitive switches remain for other functions on the wheel. Mercedes-Benz has been shrinking its lineup of so-called Entry Luxury models. The A-Class and B-Class are getting the axe, but the GLA and GLB SUVs will survive another generation as the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake have done, moving to the new MMA platform. The next-generation GLA and GLB are also set to offer electric power, but will almost certainly ditch the standalone EQA and EQB nameplates for EV versions. MORE: Explore the Mercedes-Benz CLA showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
2 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Range Rover Electric: 'Don't change it, just make it better"
JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification. With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV. Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line. It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque. The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier). Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need. "This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering. "So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?" The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup. Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date. While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels. The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments. "We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions." The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort. Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace. While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built. With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change. MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom Content originally sourced from: JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification. With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV. Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line. It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque. The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier). Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need. "This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering. "So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?" The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup. Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date. While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels. The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments. "We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions." The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort. Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace. While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built. With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change. MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom Content originally sourced from: JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification. With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV. Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line. It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque. The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier). Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need. "This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering. "So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?" The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup. Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date. While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels. The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments. "We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions." The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort. Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace. While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built. With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change. MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom Content originally sourced from: JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification. With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV. Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line. It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque. The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier). Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need. "This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering. "So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?" The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup. Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date. While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels. The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments. "We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions." The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort. Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace. While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built. With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change. MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
3 hours ago
- 7NEWS
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake: Sleek petrol, EV wagon a chance for Australia
The third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake has been revealed, offering electric power for the first time, and the all-new small premium wagon is a good chance for local release. 'The CLA Shooting Brake is under consideration for the Australian market,' said a Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesperson. It's launching in Europe in March 2026, while its four-door 'coupe' counterpart is already due to arrive here during the second half of 2026, following the new compact sedan's international launch this month. Should the new wagon arrive here, it would represent the return of the CLA Shooting Brake to Australia. The first generation was offered here, but Australia missed out on the second generation. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Thus far, Mercedes-Benz has revealed only electric versions – the CLA250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology and the CLA350 4Matic Shooting Brake with EQ Technology. Yes, that was just two, they just have really long names… This makes the CLA Shooting Brake the brand's first electric wagon. However, it won't be electric-only for long. Mercedes-Benz will launch CLA Shooting Brakes with 48V mild-hybrid petrol power early next year in Europe, with the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) supporting both combustion and electric powertrains. Mild-hybrid CLA Shooting Brakes will comprise a combustion engine and an electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing for electric coasting at speeds of around 100km/h as well as pure electric driving at 'inner-city speeds'. Electric versions feature either rear- or all-wheel drive, and use a two-speed gearbox on the rear axle; second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed additional electric variants are coming to join the two launch powertrains detailed below: Ahead of the B-pillar, the Shooting Brake is identical to the CLA sedan. However, there's naturally a longer roof, and this includes a one-piece panoramic glass panel with the optional ability to adjust the transparency via the touchscreen. This glass roof is also connected to the ambient lighting, and features 158 stars integrated into its surface that remain 'almost invisible during the day'; light is fed to them from the front via LED modules, creating a unique visual experience at night. Here's how the CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology compares to its combustion-powered predecessor in terms of external dimensions: While it's longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, resulting in 14mm more front headroom and 7mm more rear headroom, rear legroom has dropped by 6mm and rear shoulder room by 13mm. The boot is also smaller at 455 litres, down 30L with a 15mm higher load floor. Once you drop the 40:20:40-split rear seats, load space expands to 1290L. However, this is still down 60L on the old model. Offsetting this is 101L of illuminated storage under the bonnet, though naturally this won't be available in upcoming mild-hybrid models. Inside the cabin, there's an available full-width MBUX Superscreen setup. This comprises a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 14-inch screen for the passenger which they can use for gaming or streaming media. Also available is a 12.2-inch head-up display. The CLA Shooting Brake features the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System ( and supports over-the-air software updates for not only the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system but also vehicle functions such as driver assistance systems. Speaking of MBUX, its new Virtual Assistant can handle multi-part queries, has a short-term memory so you can pick up queries later, and utilises both ChatGPT4o and Microsoft Bing Search. Mercedes-Benz claims it can even recognise emotions and react accordingly, 'just like a good friend'. It has a 'living' avatar in the form of the Mercedes-Benz star, which is always visible on the touchscreen. The company has ensured important information, suggestions, and recently used apps are always visible on the 'Zero Layer' of the infotainment system. Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence uses map data from Google Maps, and plans the fastest and most convenient route and adds charging stops if necessary. The navigation can also activate battery preconditioning to ensure the battery is at the right temperature as you roll up to a charging station. Mercedes-Benz has responded to customer feedback, reintroducing roller and rocker switches for the new CLA Shooting Brake's steering wheel. The CLA Shooting Brake's interior can be had with leather, Artico leatherette and Artico/fabric combination upholstery in a range of colours, while interior trim options include brushed aluminium, wood, carbon-fibre and papered surfaces. A rocker switch is used for setting the cruise control speed, while a roller is used for media volume; touch-capacitive switches remain for other functions on the wheel. Mercedes-Benz has been shrinking its lineup of so-called Entry Luxury models. The A-Class and B-Class are getting the axe, but the GLA and GLB SUVs will survive another generation as the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake have done, moving to the new MMA platform. The next-generation GLA and GLB are also set to offer electric power, but will almost certainly ditch the standalone EQA and EQB nameplates for EV versions.
