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Stonic breaks down entry-level doors

Electric vehicle sales in Australia surged in August, with EVs capturing 24.9 per cent of the market, driven by brands like Tesla and BYD. The Kia Stonic Hybrid, priced under $30,000, competes with Chinese models, offering a mild hybrid system, improved fuel efficiency, and a seven-year warranty. The vehicle features a refreshed design, advanced safety tech, and a spacious interior. While Chinese EVs dominate sales, concerns about reliability and resale value persist, contrasting with Kia's established reputation. The Stonic Hybrid aims to balance affordability, performance, and practicality for Australian buyers.

Ars Technica· This weekTechnology

Electric or gas? BMW goes both ways with new 2027 X5 and iX5.

BMW has released its new 2027 X5 range, which includes an all-electric iX5 alongside mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. The iX5 offers a 144 kWh battery, with a claimed 450-mile range on the EPA test cycle, and can charge from 10 to 50 percent in a little over nine minutes at a demonstration station. The reviewer judges the electric model the best of the range. The petrol X5 40 xDrive starts at $72,100 plus a $1,450 delivery charge, while the iX5 60 xDrive starts at $79,800 plus delivery and arrives in the first quarter of 2027.

PerthNow Local· This weekBusiness

2027 Kia Seltos Hybrid: Initial specs confirmed for Australia

Kia Australia has confirmed initial details for the second-generation Seltos Hybrid as it reaches dealerships this week. The 2027 range has six variants, with pricing starting from $39,990 drive-away. Base grades include 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 12.3-inch display setup with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual-zone climate control. Front-wheel drive versions use a 1.6-litre hybrid system producing 113kW and 265Nm, while e-AWD models add a rear electric motor, lifting system power to around 133kW.

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PerthNow Local· A while agoBusiness

GWM confirms unprecedented interest in new Haval H7 as Australian launch looms

GWM Australia says its new Haval H7 has attracted more pre-launch interest than any previous GWM model, with first customer deliveries due within two weeks. The company claims the mid-size SUV received 1500 expressions of interest after its local debut at the Everything Electric exhibition. The new model comes exclusively with the Hi4 all-wheel drive system and offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. GWM Australia has confirmed a drive-away price from under $50,000, with the official launch set for next month.

The Illawarra Flame· A while agoProperty

Ford’s 'super-hybrid' Bronco Basecamp set to take on Rav4 in the Illawarra

Ford says its first electrified Bronco variant is expected to reach Australia and New Zealand in the second half of 2027. The super-hybrid Basecamp pairs dual electric motors and a 49kWh battery with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Ford estimates a combined driving range of 800 to 900 kilometres. The vehicle can also power appliances from its battery when stationary, with up to 6.6kW available. Ford will release full specifications and pricing closer to launch.

The West Australian· A while agoBusiness

Product recall: Car giant Toyota recalls nearly 6,000 RAV4 hybrid vehicles over mechanical fault

Toyota has issued a recall of nearly 6,000 RAV4 plug-in hybrid vehicles sold across Australia over a manufacturing fault. The fault affects the motor generator electronic control unit and may cause the electric motor to shut down, causing a loss of power. Toyota warns this increases the risk of accidents causing serious injury or death. Owners are asked to book an appointment with a Toyota dealer, where the repair will be carried out free of charge. Toyota expects to remain Australia's top-selling brand this year.

PerthNow Local· A while agoBusiness

Why Nissan chose the Navara name for its new Chinese-made hybrid ute

Nissan will sell a new hybrid ute in Australia under the Navara name, despite it sharing little with the existing diesel model. Nissan Oceania boss Steve Milette says the company chose the Navara name for brand recognition. The Navara Pro PHEV, a joint venture with Chinese automaker Dongfeng, will arrive in 2027, featuring a 300kW and 800Nm powertrain. It will compete with other electric utes like the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV.

PerthNow Local· A while agoBusiness

Diesel critical to regional Australia, says Toyota

Toyota Australia says diesel still plays a strong role in the country, even as hybrid and electric vehicle sales grow. Diesel sales have slumped 25.5 per cent year-on-year to the end of September 2026, and diesel's market share has fallen to 24.3 per cent. Toyota Australia sales vice-president John Pappas said many customers in regional and rural areas still need diesel vehicles as a tool of trade or for long distances and towing. Toyota said nearly 54 per cent of its combined HiLux and LandCruiser family is bought and used outside major metropolitan cities.

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#HybridTopic

Stonic breaks down entry-level doors

Electric or gas? BMW goes both ways with new 2027 X5 and iX5.

2027 Kia Seltos Hybrid: Initial specs confirmed for Australia

Your suburb’s news, alerts and Shorts — in one app

GWM confirms unprecedented interest in new Haval H7 as Australian launch looms

Ford’s 'super-hybrid' Bronco Basecamp set to take on Rav4 in the Illawarra

Product recall: Car giant Toyota recalls nearly 6,000 RAV4 hybrid vehicles over mechanical fault

Why Nissan chose the Navara name for its new Chinese-made hybrid ute

Diesel critical to regional Australia, says Toyota

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