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.
"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".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
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.
"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".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
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.
"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".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
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.
"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".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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2025 Mahindra XUV 3X0 vs Chery Tiggo 4: Spec battle
The race for Australia's cheapest SUV recently got a new entrant with the arrival of the Mahindra XUV 3X0. The Indian automaker has temporarily overtaken Chinese rival Chery and its popular Tiggo 4 at the head of the small SUV pack with its first city-sized soft-roader. Both compact SUVs offer exceptional value for money, generous levels of standard equipment and the latest in advanced safety systems, and both have affordable long-term ownership credentials. So, let's dig a little deeper to see how they stack up against each other. The Mahindra XUV 3X0 launched in Australia last month with a special introductory price that expires on August 31, 2025. It is available in two model grades, the AX5L and AX7L, which currently cost $23,490 and $26,490 drive-away. But both will increase by $500 from September 1. When that happens, the Mahindra will line-up exactly on price with the updated Chery Tiggo 4, which arrived in Australian showrooms earlier this year. It is also offered in two variants, Urban and Ultimate, which sell for $23,990 and $26,990 respectively, also including all on-road statutory costs. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering their price, the entry-level variants of both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV3X0 come with a decent level of standard equipment. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The extensive list of standard features in both models includes: The Mahindra also comes with a standard glass sunroof and a cooled glovebox. For the top-spec variants, both get leather trim and larger alloy wheels (from 16- to 17-inch with the Mahindra and from 17- to 18-inch with the Chery), but there are a host more unique differences. The Mahindra XUV 300 AX7L picks up a larger 'Sky Roof', a premium Harman Kardon sound system with amplifier and sub-woofer, and the option of a two-tone paint scheme with a black roof for certain exterior colours. Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo 4 Ultimate has power adjustment and heating for the front seats, colour interior ambient lighting, a wireless phone charger and a sunroof. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3X0 are equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced driver aids and safety features in all model variants. Standard safety equipment across both models includes: The Chery does go a little further with seven airbags, including a centre airbag between the front-seat occupants, as well as driver fatigue monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and collision avoidance, and door-opening warning. But the Mahindra has a 360-degree parking display in both variants, whereas this is only available in the top-spec Tiggo 4 Ultimate. The Tiggo 4 was given a maximum five-star ANCAP rating in 2024, while the XUV 300 has yet to be tested by the independent safety authority. Mahindra does, however, claim the vehicle has been designed to perform at the highest level in real-world scenarios, and the XUV 300 did receive a five-star rating last year from the India's ANCAP equivalent, Bharat NCAP. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. For small SUVs, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 are surprisingly spacious and well suited to small families thanks to excellent interior ride on a wheelbase with roughly the same space between the front and rear axles, but the Chery is longer in overall length and fractionally wider and taller. But not by enough that makes a significant difference inside the cabin, as both offer room for five with decent headroom and more legroom in the second row than you'd imagine. Both cars have 60:40-split folding rear seats, three top-tether and two ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a space-saver spare tyre under the floor of the boot, which are also surprisingly generous and offer enough cargo capacity to cater for weekly family duties and longer holiday road trips. As for the overall aesthetic, the Tiggo 4 is a little more modern with its asymmetric dash top that highlights the floating twin-screen configuration with a separate touchscreen for the climate control system on the curving centre stack. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The Mahindra is more conservative with a digital instrument cluster under its own cowl while the tablet-style infotainment screen juts out at the top of the centre of the dashboard with a row of physical buttons, and a traditional volume knob for the audio within easy reach. It also has rotary dials for the climate control and a convenient bin at the base of the console for small items or mobile devices, with a pair of cupholders behind the upright gear lever. Both the Mahindra and Chery offer decent small-item storage spaces throughout the cabin, with deep door pockets, covered bins in the centre console and flip-down arm rests in the centre of the back seat. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering the size and focus on value for money here, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 have relatively simple powertrains with no variations between Mahindra is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 82kW of power and 200Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The Chery has an extra cylinder and a larger-capacity 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that, naturally, delivers higher outputs of 108kW and 210Nm. It too drives the front wheels, but via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Both engines are optimised to run on the most affordable standard unleaded petrol, and the Mahindra is more efficient with a claimed average of 6.5L/100km compared to the Chery's 7.4L/100km , neither of which is particularly exceptional for small cars like these. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. There's not much separating these two when it comes to ownership credentials either, as both are covered by seven-year warranties with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing packages. However, the Mahindra's coverage is limited to the first 150,000km and its capped-price service offer extends to only six years, whereas the Chery has unlimited mileage coverage and service prices set for the duration of the warranty. In terms of maintenance costs, both are reasonably affordable, with the Chery's yearly average slightly lower than the Mahindra ($310 versus $332), and both require servicing every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. The reality is there's not much to separate these two and pick a definitive winner. Both provide Australians affordable access to a new car with the latest safety tech and digital conveniences, and both come equipped with a decent array of standard equipment. Plus, they're relatively cheap to own and have excellent aftersales provisions that provide plenty of peace of mind. If anything, small families and first-time car buyers are the real winners with either choice here. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV 3X0? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereInterested in buying a Chery Tiggo 4? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV3X0 showroomMORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 4 showroom Content originally sourced from: The race for Australia's cheapest SUV recently got a new entrant with the arrival of the Mahindra XUV 3X0. The Indian automaker has temporarily overtaken Chinese rival Chery and its popular Tiggo 4 at the head of the small SUV pack with its first city-sized soft-roader. Both compact SUVs offer exceptional value for money, generous levels of standard equipment and the latest in advanced safety systems, and both have affordable long-term ownership credentials. So, let's dig a little deeper to see how they stack up against each other. The Mahindra XUV 3X0 launched in Australia last month with a special introductory price that expires on August 31, 2025. It is available in two model grades, the AX5L and AX7L, which currently cost $23,490 and $26,490 drive-away. But both will increase by $500 from September 1. When that happens, the Mahindra will line-up exactly on price with the updated Chery Tiggo 4, which arrived in Australian showrooms earlier this year. It is also offered in two variants, Urban and Ultimate, which sell for $23,990 and $26,990 respectively, also including all on-road statutory costs. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering their price, the entry-level variants of both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV3X0 come with a decent level of standard equipment. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The extensive list of standard features in both models includes: The Mahindra also comes with a standard glass sunroof and a cooled glovebox. For the top-spec variants, both get leather trim and larger alloy wheels (from 16- to 17-inch with the Mahindra and from 17- to 18-inch with the Chery), but there are a host more unique differences. The Mahindra XUV 300 AX7L picks up a larger 'Sky Roof', a premium Harman Kardon sound system with amplifier and sub-woofer, and the option of a two-tone paint scheme with a black roof for certain exterior colours. Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo 4 Ultimate has power adjustment and heating for the front seats, colour interior ambient lighting, a wireless phone charger and a sunroof. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3X0 are equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced driver aids and safety features in all model variants. Standard safety equipment across both models includes: The Chery does go a little further with seven airbags, including a centre airbag between the front-seat occupants, as well as driver fatigue monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and collision avoidance, and door-opening warning. But the Mahindra has a 360-degree parking display in both variants, whereas this is only available in the top-spec Tiggo 4 Ultimate. The Tiggo 4 was given a maximum five-star ANCAP rating in 2024, while the XUV 300 has yet to be tested by the independent safety authority. Mahindra does, however, claim the vehicle has been designed to perform at the highest level in real-world scenarios, and the XUV 300 did receive a five-star rating last year from the India's ANCAP equivalent, Bharat NCAP. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. For small SUVs, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 are surprisingly spacious and well suited to small families thanks to excellent interior ride on a wheelbase with roughly the same space between the front and rear axles, but the Chery is longer in overall length and fractionally wider and taller. But not by enough that makes a significant difference inside the cabin, as both offer room for five with decent headroom and more legroom in the second row than you'd imagine. Both cars have 60:40-split folding rear seats, three top-tether and two ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a space-saver spare tyre under the floor of the boot, which are also surprisingly generous and offer enough cargo capacity to cater for weekly family duties and longer holiday road trips. As for the overall aesthetic, the Tiggo 4 is a little more modern with its asymmetric dash top that highlights the floating twin-screen configuration with a separate touchscreen for the climate control system on the curving centre stack. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The Mahindra is more conservative with a digital instrument cluster under its own cowl while the tablet-style infotainment screen juts out at the top of the centre of the dashboard with a row of physical buttons, and a traditional volume knob for the audio within easy reach. It also has rotary dials for the climate control and a convenient bin at the base of the console for small items or mobile devices, with a pair of cupholders behind the upright gear lever. Both the Mahindra and Chery offer decent small-item storage spaces throughout the cabin, with deep door pockets, covered bins in the centre console and flip-down arm rests in the centre of the back seat. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering the size and focus on value for money here, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 have relatively simple powertrains with no variations between Mahindra is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 82kW of power and 200Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The Chery has an extra cylinder and a larger-capacity 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that, naturally, delivers higher outputs of 108kW and 210Nm. It too drives the front wheels, but via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Both engines are optimised to run on the most affordable standard unleaded petrol, and the Mahindra is more efficient with a claimed average of 6.5L/100km compared to the Chery's 7.4L/100km , neither of which is particularly exceptional for small cars like these. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. There's not much separating these two when it comes to ownership credentials either, as both are covered by seven-year warranties with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing packages. However, the Mahindra's coverage is limited to the first 150,000km and its capped-price service offer extends to only six years, whereas the Chery has unlimited mileage coverage and service prices set for the duration of the warranty. In terms of maintenance costs, both are reasonably affordable, with the Chery's yearly average slightly lower than the Mahindra ($310 versus $332), and both require servicing every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. The reality is there's not much to separate these two and pick a definitive winner. Both provide Australians affordable access to a new car with the latest safety tech and digital conveniences, and both come equipped with a decent array of standard equipment. Plus, they're relatively cheap to own and have excellent aftersales provisions that provide plenty of peace of mind. If anything, small families and first-time car buyers are the real winners with either choice here. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV 3X0? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereInterested in buying a Chery Tiggo 4? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV3X0 showroomMORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 4 showroom Content originally sourced from: The race for Australia's cheapest SUV recently got a new entrant with the arrival of the Mahindra XUV 3X0. The Indian automaker has temporarily overtaken Chinese rival Chery and its popular Tiggo 4 at the head of the small SUV pack with its first city-sized soft-roader. Both compact SUVs offer exceptional value for money, generous levels of standard equipment and the latest in advanced safety systems, and both have affordable long-term ownership credentials. So, let's dig a little deeper to see how they stack up against each other. The Mahindra XUV 3X0 launched in Australia last month with a special introductory price that expires on August 31, 2025. It is available in two model grades, the AX5L and AX7L, which currently cost $23,490 and $26,490 drive-away. But both will increase by $500 from September 1. When that happens, the Mahindra will line-up exactly on price with the updated Chery Tiggo 4, which arrived in Australian showrooms earlier this year. It is also offered in two variants, Urban and Ultimate, which sell for $23,990 and $26,990 respectively, also including all on-road statutory costs. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering their price, the entry-level variants of both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV3X0 come with a decent level of standard equipment. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The extensive list of standard features in both models includes: The Mahindra also comes with a standard glass sunroof and a cooled glovebox. For the top-spec variants, both get leather trim and larger alloy wheels (from 16- to 17-inch with the Mahindra and from 17- to 18-inch with the Chery), but there are a host more unique differences. The Mahindra XUV 300 AX7L picks up a larger 'Sky Roof', a premium Harman Kardon sound system with amplifier and sub-woofer, and the option of a two-tone paint scheme with a black roof for certain exterior colours. Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo 4 Ultimate has power adjustment and heating for the front seats, colour interior ambient lighting, a wireless phone charger and a sunroof. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3X0 are equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced driver aids and safety features in all model variants. Standard safety equipment across both models includes: The Chery does go a little further with seven airbags, including a centre airbag between the front-seat occupants, as well as driver fatigue monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and collision avoidance, and door-opening warning. But the Mahindra has a 360-degree parking display in both variants, whereas this is only available in the top-spec Tiggo 4 Ultimate. The Tiggo 4 was given a maximum five-star ANCAP rating in 2024, while the XUV 300 has yet to be tested by the independent safety authority. Mahindra does, however, claim the vehicle has been designed to perform at the highest level in real-world scenarios, and the XUV 300 did receive a five-star rating last year from the India's ANCAP equivalent, Bharat NCAP. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. For small SUVs, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 are surprisingly spacious and well suited to small families thanks to excellent interior ride on a wheelbase with roughly the same space between the front and rear axles, but the Chery is longer in overall length and fractionally wider and taller. But not by enough that makes a significant difference inside the cabin, as both offer room for five with decent headroom and more legroom in the second row than you'd imagine. Both cars have 60:40-split folding rear seats, three top-tether and two ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a space-saver spare tyre under the floor of the boot, which are also surprisingly generous and offer enough cargo capacity to cater for weekly family duties and longer holiday road trips. As for the overall aesthetic, the Tiggo 4 is a little more modern with its asymmetric dash top that highlights the floating twin-screen configuration with a separate touchscreen for the climate control system on the curving centre stack. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The Mahindra is more conservative with a digital instrument cluster under its own cowl while the tablet-style infotainment screen juts out at the top of the centre of the dashboard with a row of physical buttons, and a traditional volume knob for the audio within easy reach. It also has rotary dials for the climate control and a convenient bin at the base of the console for small items or mobile devices, with a pair of cupholders behind the upright gear lever. Both the Mahindra and Chery offer decent small-item storage spaces throughout the cabin, with deep door pockets, covered bins in the centre console and flip-down arm rests in the centre of the back seat. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering the size and focus on value for money here, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 have relatively simple powertrains with no variations between Mahindra is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 82kW of power and 200Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The Chery has an extra cylinder and a larger-capacity 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that, naturally, delivers higher outputs of 108kW and 210Nm. It too drives the front wheels, but via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Both engines are optimised to run on the most affordable standard unleaded petrol, and the Mahindra is more efficient with a claimed average of 6.5L/100km compared to the Chery's 7.4L/100km , neither of which is particularly exceptional for small cars like these. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. There's not much separating these two when it comes to ownership credentials either, as both are covered by seven-year warranties with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing packages. However, the Mahindra's coverage is limited to the first 150,000km and its capped-price service offer extends to only six years, whereas the Chery has unlimited mileage coverage and service prices set for the duration of the warranty. In terms of maintenance costs, both are reasonably affordable, with the Chery's yearly average slightly lower than the Mahindra ($310 versus $332), and both require servicing every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. The reality is there's not much to separate these two and pick a definitive winner. Both provide Australians affordable access to a new car with the latest safety tech and digital conveniences, and both come equipped with a decent array of standard equipment. Plus, they're relatively cheap to own and have excellent aftersales provisions that provide plenty of peace of mind. If anything, small families and first-time car buyers are the real winners with either choice here. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV 3X0? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereInterested in buying a Chery Tiggo 4? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV3X0 showroomMORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 4 showroom Content originally sourced from: The race for Australia's cheapest SUV recently got a new entrant with the arrival of the Mahindra XUV 3X0. The Indian automaker has temporarily overtaken Chinese rival Chery and its popular Tiggo 4 at the head of the small SUV pack with its first city-sized soft-roader. Both compact SUVs offer exceptional value for money, generous levels of standard equipment and the latest in advanced safety systems, and both have affordable long-term ownership credentials. So, let's dig a little deeper to see how they stack up against each other. The Mahindra XUV 3X0 launched in Australia last month with a special introductory price that expires on August 31, 2025. It is available in two model grades, the AX5L and AX7L, which currently cost $23,490 and $26,490 drive-away. But both will increase by $500 from September 1. When that happens, the Mahindra will line-up exactly on price with the updated Chery Tiggo 4, which arrived in Australian showrooms earlier this year. It is also offered in two variants, Urban and Ultimate, which sell for $23,990 and $26,990 respectively, also including all on-road statutory costs. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering their price, the entry-level variants of both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV3X0 come with a decent level of standard equipment. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The extensive list of standard features in both models includes: The Mahindra also comes with a standard glass sunroof and a cooled glovebox. For the top-spec variants, both get leather trim and larger alloy wheels (from 16- to 17-inch with the Mahindra and from 17- to 18-inch with the Chery), but there are a host more unique differences. The Mahindra XUV 300 AX7L picks up a larger 'Sky Roof', a premium Harman Kardon sound system with amplifier and sub-woofer, and the option of a two-tone paint scheme with a black roof for certain exterior colours. Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo 4 Ultimate has power adjustment and heating for the front seats, colour interior ambient lighting, a wireless phone charger and a sunroof. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Both the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3X0 are equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced driver aids and safety features in all model variants. Standard safety equipment across both models includes: The Chery does go a little further with seven airbags, including a centre airbag between the front-seat occupants, as well as driver fatigue monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and collision avoidance, and door-opening warning. But the Mahindra has a 360-degree parking display in both variants, whereas this is only available in the top-spec Tiggo 4 Ultimate. The Tiggo 4 was given a maximum five-star ANCAP rating in 2024, while the XUV 300 has yet to be tested by the independent safety authority. Mahindra does, however, claim the vehicle has been designed to perform at the highest level in real-world scenarios, and the XUV 300 did receive a five-star rating last year from the India's ANCAP equivalent, Bharat NCAP. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. For small SUVs, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 are surprisingly spacious and well suited to small families thanks to excellent interior ride on a wheelbase with roughly the same space between the front and rear axles, but the Chery is longer in overall length and fractionally wider and taller. But not by enough that makes a significant difference inside the cabin, as both offer room for five with decent headroom and more legroom in the second row than you'd imagine. Both cars have 60:40-split folding rear seats, three top-tether and two ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a space-saver spare tyre under the floor of the boot, which are also surprisingly generous and offer enough cargo capacity to cater for weekly family duties and longer holiday road trips. As for the overall aesthetic, the Tiggo 4 is a little more modern with its asymmetric dash top that highlights the floating twin-screen configuration with a separate touchscreen for the climate control system on the curving centre stack. ABOVE: Mahindra XUV 3X0 (left), Chery Tiggo 4 (right) The Mahindra is more conservative with a digital instrument cluster under its own cowl while the tablet-style infotainment screen juts out at the top of the centre of the dashboard with a row of physical buttons, and a traditional volume knob for the audio within easy reach. It also has rotary dials for the climate control and a convenient bin at the base of the console for small items or mobile devices, with a pair of cupholders behind the upright gear lever. Both the Mahindra and Chery offer decent small-item storage spaces throughout the cabin, with deep door pockets, covered bins in the centre console and flip-down arm rests in the centre of the back seat. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. Considering the size and focus on value for money here, both the Mahindra XUV 3X0 and Chery Tiggo 4 have relatively simple powertrains with no variations between Mahindra is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 82kW of power and 200Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The Chery has an extra cylinder and a larger-capacity 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that, naturally, delivers higher outputs of 108kW and 210Nm. It too drives the front wheels, but via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Both engines are optimised to run on the most affordable standard unleaded petrol, and the Mahindra is more efficient with a claimed average of 6.5L/100km compared to the Chery's 7.4L/100km , neither of which is particularly exceptional for small cars like these. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. There's not much separating these two when it comes to ownership credentials either, as both are covered by seven-year warranties with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing packages. However, the Mahindra's coverage is limited to the first 150,000km and its capped-price service offer extends to only six years, whereas the Chery has unlimited mileage coverage and service prices set for the duration of the warranty. In terms of maintenance costs, both are reasonably affordable, with the Chery's yearly average slightly lower than the Mahindra ($310 versus $332), and both require servicing every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV 3X0. Click here to get a great can save you thousands on a new Chery Tiggo 4. Click here to get a great deal. The reality is there's not much to separate these two and pick a definitive winner. Both provide Australians affordable access to a new car with the latest safety tech and digital conveniences, and both come equipped with a decent array of standard equipment. Plus, they're relatively cheap to own and have excellent aftersales provisions that provide plenty of peace of mind. If anything, small families and first-time car buyers are the real winners with either choice here. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV 3X0? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereInterested in buying a Chery Tiggo 4? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV3X0 showroomMORE: Explore the Chery Tiggo 4 showroom Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
8 hours ago
- 7NEWS
Audi Australia culls more passenger cars in increasingly SUV-heavy lineup
The Audi A7 Sportback and S8 limousine are the latest passenger models from the German luxury brand to become unavailable to order in Australia. Audi Australia has updated its website to confirm orders for the large five-door liftback and even larger four-door sedan are now closed. While the A7 is at the end of its lifecycle – it's understood the latest A6 replaces both the outgoing A6 and A7 – the S8 hasn't been discontinued globally. The S8 also continues to be offered in the UK, another major right-hand drive market, as well as in its home market of Germany. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. ABOVE: Audi A7 However, the A8 and S8 family entered production late in 2017, which means they're close to a decade old now, and yet no replacement has been announced, combustion-powered or otherwise. 'The S8 is no longer available in showrooms at this stage,' confirmed an Audi Australia spokesperson. 'While the A8 range is currently unavailable, the Audi Australia team constantly evaluates all models available to us from the factory, ensuring that we have a broad range of models available here to meet customer's needs.' The removal of the A7 and S8 from Australian order books comes after the 'regular' A8 was retired locally, and orders were closed for the high-riding A6 allroad wagon, the S6 sports sedan and the S7 Sportback after the 2024 model year. That leaves Audi's large passenger model range consisting of only the high-performance RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback, plus the outgoing A6 sedan and the recently updated S and RS e-tron GT electric sedans. If you want a large, combustion-powered Audi without the RS treatment, you now have just one option: the A6 45 TFSI quattro S line, priced at $124,950 before on-roads. ABOVE: New-generation Audi A6 (left), outgoing model (right) A look at Audi's German website confirms the outgoing A6 and A7, including their sportier S and RS variants, are no longer available to order. Audi is replacing the outgoing A6 with a new-generation sedan and Avant wagon based on the company's Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which will be complemented by the electric A6 e-tron and A6 Avant e-tron based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). Both of these model lines are already on sale in Europe but Audi has yet to officially lock them in for Australian release. Instead, it says these vehicles are 'currently under evaluation for the Australian market'. 'Our product team are constantly evaluating each model line and the specific models within the range to determine the mix, pricing, and specification for everything we offer here in Australia,' said the spokesperson. Should Audi not bring the new-generation A6 to Australia, including its inevitable hotted-up RS flagship, the recently launched A5/S5 would become the brand's largest combustion-powered passenger car available in Australia. ABOVE: Audi S8 The discontinuation of the S8 locally now leaves Audi without a model in the so-called 'Upper Large' passenger car segment, which also contains vehicles like the rival BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, after 30 years. Audi delivered just three S8s in the first half of this year, but even looking at full-year sales of the A8/S8 in 2024 – when the flagship was still available to order – it notched up only 10 deliveries, down 47.4 per cent on the previous year and behind the LS (11), S-Class (43) and 7 Series (49). It isn't just the Upper Large segment from which Audi is withdrawing. The four-ringed brand no longer offers any coupe or convertible models, neither here nor abroad, following the axing of the R8 supercar and TT sports car, and the introduction of the new-generation of A5 without any two-door variants.
Perth Now
8 hours ago
- Perth Now
Audi Australia culls more passenger cars in increasingly SUV-heavy lineup
The Audi A7 Sportback and S8 limousine are the latest passenger models from the German luxury brand to become unavailable to order in Australia. Audi Australia has updated its website to confirm orders for the large five-door liftback and even larger four-door sedan are now closed. While the A7 is at the end of its lifecycle – it's understood the latest A6 replaces both the outgoing A6 and A7 – the S8 hasn't been discontinued globally. The S8 also continues to be offered in the UK, another major right-hand drive market, as well as in its home market of Germany. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Audi A7 However, the A8 and S8 family entered production late in 2017, which means they're close to a decade old now, and yet no replacement has been announced, combustion-powered or otherwise. 'The S8 is no longer available in showrooms at this stage,' confirmed an Audi Australia spokesperson. 'While the A8 range is currently unavailable, the Audi Australia team constantly evaluates all models available to us from the factory, ensuring that we have a broad range of models available here to meet customer's needs.' The removal of the A7 and S8 from Australian order books comes after the 'regular' A8 was retired locally, and orders were closed for the high-riding A6 allroad wagon, the S6 sports sedan and the S7 Sportback after the 2024 model year. That leaves Audi's large passenger model range consisting of only the high-performance RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback, plus the outgoing A6 sedan and the recently updated S and RS e-tron GT electric sedans. If you want a large, combustion-powered Audi without the RS treatment, you now have just one option: the A6 45 TFSI quattro S line, priced at $124,950 before on-roads. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: New-generation Audi A6 (left), outgoing model (right) A look at Audi's German website confirms the outgoing A6 and A7, including their sportier S and RS variants, are no longer available to order. Audi is replacing the outgoing A6 with a new-generation sedan and Avant wagon based on the company's Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which will be complemented by the electric A6 e-tron and A6 Avant e-tron based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). Both of these model lines are already on sale in Europe but Audi has yet to officially lock them in for Australian release. Instead, it says these vehicles are 'currently under evaluation for the Australian market'. 'Our product team are constantly evaluating each model line and the specific models within the range to determine the mix, pricing, and specification for everything we offer here in Australia,' said the spokesperson. Should Audi not bring the new-generation A6 to Australia, including its inevitable hotted-up RS flagship, the recently launched A5/S5 would become the brand's largest combustion-powered passenger car available in Australia. Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Audi S8 The discontinuation of the S8 locally now leaves Audi without a model in the so-called 'Upper Large' passenger car segment, which also contains vehicles like the rival BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, after 30 years. Audi delivered just three S8s in the first half of this year, but even looking at full-year sales of the A8/S8 in 2024 – when the flagship was still available to order – it notched up only 10 deliveries, down 47.4 per cent on the previous year and behind the LS (11), S-Class (43) and 7 Series (49). It isn't just the Upper Large segment from which Audi is withdrawing. The four-ringed brand no longer offers any coupe or convertible models, neither here nor abroad, following the axing of the R8 supercar and TT sports car, and the introduction of the new-generation of A5 without any two-door variants. MORE: Everything Audi A6 • S6 • RS6 • A7 • S7 • RS7 • A8 • S8
