Explore every episode of the podcast Motor Torque with David Berthon

Driving the relatively new Mazda CX-80 all-wheel drive SUV, the seven-seat
version of Mazda’s five-seat CX-60, I’m driving the entry CX-80 Pure, the most
affordable of the 10-model range at $54,950 plus on-road costs – the Pure has one
engine choice a 3.3-litre turbo petrol six-cylinder with 48-volt mild hybrid
assistance linked to an 8-speed automatic. The CX-80 replaces the long standing
CX-8 and CX-9 models. Certainly, its seven-passenger versatility is excellent, a
great family vehicle, nicely specified, spacious in the second row with five adults,
the turbo-petrol engine impressive with strong mid-range performance, but as a
rather heavy all-wheel drive a little thirsty on a strong throttle, I managed 11.8
L/100km, and thankfully it runs on 91 grade petrol. Suspension tune streets ahead
of the CX-60 I drove early last year which, after much criticism, Mazda Australia
did a re-work on later and the ride quality and handling on this new CX-80 is
vastly better. Gear shift quality on the early CX-60 has also been addressed and
obviously has carried over to the CX-80. A few gripes, Mazda prices have crept
up, while all models only get a tyre repair kit in lieu of a spare wheel. Warranty;
five-years/unlimited km. I’m David Berthon

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Mazda now has a very comprehensive range of SUV’s – in addition to its best-
selling mid-sized CX-5 it now offers four large SUV’s, the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and
CX-90 – and one wonders if the four large SUV’s are overkill, the company first to
admit there is some overlap with buyers – The CX-80 IS basically a three-row
version of the CX-60, available with three engine choices - an in-line six-cylinder
petrol or diesel or a four-cylinder plug in hybrid. There’s four available grades,
Pure, Touring, GT and Azami, the entry Pure only gets the six-cylinder petrol
engine while all models feature all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic with
manual shift paddles. Importantly, the six-cylinder versions also include a 48-volt
mild hybrid system. I drove the entry Mazda CX-80 Pure starting at $54,950 plus
on-roads which gets 18-inch alloys, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a
head up display, black cloth trim, manual seat adjustment, three-zone climate
control air, a semi-digital instrument cluster, three drive modes and a full suite of
safety equipment. Disappointingly, it lacks a wireless phone charger, a power
tailgate, and a spare wheel – just a tyre repair kit inadequate in my view for a
family carrier with all-wheel-drive. Drive detail next. I’m David Berthon

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The NSW Government will shortly consider a report from a parliamentary
inquiry into e-scooters including a recommendation to legalise both private
and shared hire e-scooters and allowing them to be used on footpaths. At
present, children under the age of 16 are prohibited from riding e-scooters
on the footpath. The head of trauma at the Westmead Children’s Hospital
Dr Soundappen said this week he was shocked at the number of children
being admitted for injuries from e-scooters and e-bikes, up 400 percent in
just 12 months. Dr Soundappen said most of the injuries came from e-
scooters and nearly two thirds of the children were not wearing a helmet.
There is now considerable concern in the community, especially from the
elderly, at the prospect of being hit by an e-scooter and I hope the
Government gives it plenty of thought when the parliamentary inquiry is
handed down in May. I’m David Berthon

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For some time now I’ve raised concern regarding the poor resale values of electric vehicles and that it would cost early adopters at trade-in time. Recent data supplied by the Australian Automobile Dealer Association, Automotive Insights Report, which studies used car sales, has found that electric vehicles lose 25 percent of their value in the first 12 months, depreciating at more than twice the rate of petrol-powered vehicles. A one-year-old EV loses a quarter of its purchase price compared to around 11.5 percent for petrol models. Diesel models were found to depreciate just five per cent in 12 months while Hybrids dropped just 1.7 per-cent in the same period. The AADA wisely attributed the strong EV depreciation to the aggressive discounting particularly from new Chinese brands entering the market while our best-selling EV, the Tesla Model Y, was slashed by $9500 during last year. I’m David Berthon

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Driving Hyundai’s latest Sante Fe Hybrid – behind the wheel noticeably larger to
its predecessor, now squarer edged, a very roomy seven-seater with exceptional
cargo space but if anything it looks a little tail heavy due to an enlarged tailgate.
This latest Hyundai Sante Fe initially available as a 1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid six
speed automatic in a base model, mid-spec Elite and top-grade Calligraphy - and
depending on model, front or all-wheel drive. A 2.5-litre pure petrol 8-speed
automatic arrives late this year. I tested the Elite all-wheel drive, now $2,000
dearer at $65,000 plus on-road costs. The hybrid power trains 172kW of power,
367Nm of torque more than adequate – providing excellent fuel economy – I
managed 7.7L./100km around town and on 91 grade petrol. Economy aided by
three levels of regenerative braking and in its highest level you hardly need to
touch the brakes. Biggest annoyance the speed limit warning and driver attention
monitor – both features need more development and refinement and are just plain
annoying and of no real driver benefit. They can be switched off but every time
you start the car they renew. Like a lot of the new Chinese SUV’s these warning
chimes are distractive, and a turn off to most drivers. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the latest fifth generation Hyundai Sante Fe hybrid seven-seat SUV – a
totally different SUV to its predecessor – firstly in appearance and on first
impression its very much in the mould of a Land Rover, somewhat square edged
with a stronger presence and more interior room. This last aspect with an
enlarged tailgate gives it a rather tail happy appearance which drew some
negativity. As a family mover it offers generous interior room with ten airbags
over three seat rows and increased cargo space. Available initially as a 1.6-litre
turbo-petrol hybrid six-speed automatic, three grades, Base, Elite and Calligraphy
and depending on model, front or all-wheel-drive. I drove the well specified Elite
all-wheel drive now $2,000 dearer at $65,000 plus on-road costs. The hybrid
power train impressive, offering three levels of regenerative braking, and there’s
a number of drive modes available including terrain modes like snow, mud and
sand. The dash most impressive with a combined information display and
instrument cluster that’s first class. The cabin ambience most impressive.
There’s a big lift in technology, Hyundai adding over the air software capability to
keep you up with driver assist systems remotely without the need to visit a
dealer. Warranty five year/unlimited km. Drive details next. I’m David Berthon

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The seventh edition of the Sydney Harbour Concours d’ Elegance at the end of this month will see possibly the most diverse and exotic range of collector cars in the history of the event. To be staged again on historic Cockatoo Island over the three days from Friday Feb 28 to Sunday March 2 this classic event just gets better year on year. The range of entries this year span from 1905 to 2021 - many extremely rare including a 1930 Bugatti Type 46, 1936 Delahaye Type 135CS and a 1973 Porsche 917. Now internationally recognised as the Southern Hemisphere’s leading concours event it has also drawn a truly international judging jury of seven from all corners of the globe including ex Formula One driver Thierry Boutsen from Belgium. As the Australian judge I very much look forward to this annual event. I’m David Berthon

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It seems the possibility of the Federal Government introducing a road user charge is very much on the cards as revenues decline from the fuel excise, the tax on the sale of petrol and diesel fuel to fund road maintenance, as more and more drivers switch to zero and low emission cars. The current fuel excise of 50.8 cents per litre of petrol and diesel fuel would be replaced by a road user charge that will bill all drivers per kilometre travelled. Fuel excise revenue has been falling for some years with Treasury predicting it will account for 3.9 per cent of the total tax take in the 2024/25 financial year, down from 7.4 per cent in 1999- 2000. At last week’s Business Council of Australia dinner in Canberra, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers reportedly suggested an EV road user charge was very much on the agenda. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the updated small Honda HR-V SUV which now comes in three models,
the entry pure petrol plus two hybrids – I tested the top spec HR-V hybrid E-HEV
L at $42,990 drive-away which combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with two electric
motors producing combined outputs of 96kW and 253 Nm of torque – smooth,
quiet and refined, the hybrid system generally prioritising electric power, the
petrol engine kicking in to act as a generator to charge the battery, the electric
motor in turn drawing on that charge to power the front wheels. The drive is very
linear and polished, as I said quiet, and the only time the petrol engine is
noticeable is under a heavy throttle where the continuously variable transmission
lets the petrol engine surge a little and make its presence felt. On 91 grade petrol I
managed 4.9L/100km making the HR-V a very frugal driver with an impressive
range. The drive experience with great seats, nimble steering and a nicely
balanced ride/handling combination gives this compact Honda HR-V hybrid SUV
a very polished feel. It’s not the most affordable compact SUV in its class but
overall, a very nice allrounder with servicing capped for each of the first five
years at a sharp $199. I’m David Berthon.

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Driving Honda’s recently upgraded small HR-V SUV – for 2025 now available in
three models – an entry petrol and two hybrid variants. I drove the top spec HR-V
hybrid E-HEV L now $4,100 more affordable at $42,990 drive-away. This third
generation Honda HR-V has now been refreshed with a minor facelift and a few
interior updates but basically, it’s all about being more affordable although it still
sits at the higher end of small SUV pricing. This HR-V Hybrid is technically
innovative in the old Honda tradition, nicely built, refreshingly different and
stylish to look at including a painted grille with a very practical and nicely
appointed interior for four adults rather than five. Combining a 1.5-litre petrol
engine with two compact electric motors it delivers a nice balance of power and
torque and the hybrid system is technically impressive. This is a small SUV with a
quality feel with little to grumble about, the lack of a wireless phone charger and
only a tyre repair kit, but it does come with a full suite of active safety elements,
wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated front seats with fabric and
leatherette trim. Warranty five years/unlimited km with 8-year battery warranty.
Drive details next segment. I’m David Berthon

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Chinese EV manufacturer Nio has achieved 136,748 battery swaps in its home
country over the Chinese New Year between January 22 and February 3 – the Nio
Group offered owners of its new Onvo EV unlimited access to its 3106 battery
swap stations on China’s highway system. On February 3 alone it swapped 8,000
batteries over a 24-hour period, said to take less than 3 minutes a car and the
company last week performed its 65th million battery swap. The Chinese EV
maker intends to launch its Onvo L60 EV here late in the year, but it is not known
whether it will roll out battery swap stations. Since launching in Europe in 2021
with a limited electric car line-up it has produced 59 battery swapping stations.
The Nio Onvo L60 features 900 Volt electrical architecture and offer class leading
ultra-fast charging. I’m David Berthon

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Nissan Australia has joined the likes of Mitsubishi and MG by offering a 10-year
new car warranty, however the warranty extends to 300,000 kilometres, exceeding
the 200,000km and 250,000km offerings of Mitsubishi and MG respectively. The
new Nissan warranty like Mitsubishi’s is conditional on servicing with the brand
and is applicable for all new purchases from January 1 this year. However, in
another industry first, Nissan will also backdate the warranty for all new
purchases from January 1, 2021, on the proviso that all scheduled servicing has
been carried out by its dealer network since that time. Despite its parent in Japan
declaring it is in emergency mode following slow sales and a huge loss last year
that saw it announce 9000 job cuts worldwide and lower production levels Nissan
Australia says it is fully committed to the Australian market. I’m David Berthon

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Driving Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio Quadrifoglio QV SUV, the Stelvio performance
flagship at $162,700. The styling striking with sculptured V-shaped Alfa grille has
real appeal, so too the interior, a combination of leather, Alcantara and carbon
fibre, beautifully executed together with great instrumentation. And it has the
best- looking automotive badge in the car business. But it’s the underpinnings of
the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio that are standout. A Ferrari-developed 2.9-
litre twin turbo V6 driving all four-wheels through an 8-speed automatic with shift
paddles. The drivetrain a high point – with four drive settings, Dynamic, Normal,
Adaptive and Race, changing steering weight, gear shift speed, suspension
firmness, stability control and exhaust volume – in Race mode all hell breaks
loose with an aggressive performance that as the name implies, is best for a
racetrack. Weighing 1830kilos it literally jumps to 100km/hour in just 3.8 seconds.
A stunning performance SUV and so it should be with such an exalted price tag.
But to me this is a collector model – an Italian masterpiece – but it’s not perfect –
I’d like a spare wheel while the ride quality on very low-profile tyres can be
tiresome, and servicing is quite expensive, $3,210 over three years but oh what a
drive. Warranty: five-years/unlimited km. I’m David Berthon

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Driving Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio Quadrifoglio QV SUV, the performance flagship at
$162,700. This is a performance SUV that’s not for the faint hearted. Alfa Romeo
enlisting help from Ferrari to ensure the Stelvio SUV was at the top of its game
and the Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine is in reality a Ferrari
engine, that influence also extending to suspension tune and overall dynamics. In
fact, this SUV is so good I’d buy one in preference to a Ferrari sports model and
save my back in the process. Updated last year the Stelvio Quadrifoglio gained
some small styling updates inside and out and a new mechanical self-locking
differential. Styling wise with its V shaped grille its individual and has real
presence. Just 125 Stelvio’s sold last year so it offers real exclusivity. There’s an
aura about Alfa Romeo, I remember when I first starting testing cars in 1981. In
the foyer of Alfa’s head office in Banksmeadow was a photo of Henry Ford with
the caption “Every time I see an Alfa Romeo pass, I tip my hat.” Henry Ford fully
aware of the brands sports image from its numerous race victories especially in
the 1930’s. Drive details of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio in my next segment. I’m David
Berthon

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The official road toll of 1300 deaths in Australia last year was the highest since
2012, up 3.3 per cent on the previous 12 months with 42 more fatalities. The
figures mean the National Road Safety Strategy’s goal of reducing road deaths on
Australian roads by half, compared to 2018-2020 levels, by the year 2030 is simply
not achievable. The Australian Automobile Association has been quick to call for
the Federal government road funding to be more carefully allocated, its recent
report calling for the introduction of a compulsory safety assessment of roads
applying for federal funding - helping to determine where the funding should go
and showing Australians whether politicians are spending their taxes to save
lives rather than winning votes in marginal electorates. Interestingly, no mention
of better driving standards – from my perspective, the huge number of migrants
in recent years has seen a big drop in driving standards. I’m David Berthon

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New design rules due on March 1 will see the loss of three popular Mitsubishi
models. The Pajero Sport 4WD, Eclipse Cross SUV and the small ASX SUV will
be deleted from the Mitsubishi’s line-up due to the need for an expensive upgrade
to their auto emergency braking technology. Mitsubishi Australia MD Shaun
Westcott saying the investment in re-engineering the trio to comply with the new
ADR was not viable considering the advancing age of the vehicles. The three
models last year were 38 per cent of Mitsubishi Australia’s sales and while the
company has already announced a replacement for the ASX later this year, in the
form of the Renault Captur based model, there are no imminent replacements for
the Eclipse Cross and Pajero Sport. Whilst the duo’s production has already
ceased the local company says it has ordered significant stock ahead of time to
make them available for most of this year. I’m David Berthon

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Behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4 MATIC Coupe – a rather
handsome two door Coupe on a long-wheelbase - powered by a 2.0-litre turbo
four-cylinder petrol engine assisted by a 48-volt mild hybrid system mated to a
nine-speed automatic driving all four wheels. Ownership rather exclusive with
just 499 sold last year – priced at $124,900 plus on-road costs. So how does it
drive - the petrol engine delivers 190kW of power, 400 Nm of torque, the hybrid
system contributing more power and torque under hard acceleration – the pairing
improving fuel efficiency and I managed 7.9L/100KM, not bad for a rather heavy
coupe on 95 grade petrol. Sharing its underpinnings with the latest C-Class and
E-Class sedan but with an AMG-inspired sports suspension that is 15mm lower
and with calibrated steering that varies in each of the four drive modes - along
with sharper gear shifts this is a sports coupe with real driving appeal. Ride
quality however can get a little hard, the real surprise, the amount of noise
intrusion into the cabin on a harsh surface, something I wouldn’t expect on a car
at this value. But overall, the new Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 coupe a very polished
performer. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe today – the German company
rationalizing its coupe and cabriolet line-up last year – the previous C and E-
Class coupe and cabriolet replaced by the CLE 200 and 300 coupe and cabriolet
– now both four-cylinder mild hybrids. I drove the CLE 300 4MATIC coupe at
$124,900 plus on-road costs – powered by a 2-0-litre turbo petrol engine mated to
a nine-speed automatic assisted by a 48-volt mild hybrid system, and unlike the
two-wheel drive CLE 200, drive goes to all four wheels. The CLE Coupe sits on a
stretched wheelbase - a most handsome and beautifully appointed luxury two
door Coupe – the body accentuated by a pronounced shark nose, bonnet power
domes, a front and rear apron and side sills. The interior a knockout, with large
centre screen, a configurable 12.3 instrument cluster, a head up instrument
display and very sculptured and supportive front seats in high grade leather – the
rear seat cramped with difficult access and for the most part the CLE 300 is best
described as a comfortable two-seater. Disappointments, a lack of buttons for
climate and audio controls and the slider controls on the steering wheel for
volume and cruise control frustrating to use. Drive details next. I’m David Berthon

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On his first day as U.S. President Donald Trump honoured a pre-election promise
by abandoning the Biden Administrations electric vehicle targets, despite the fact
that U.S. electric car maker Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk had donated $320 million to
help Trump gain office. The mandate signed as an executive order by Joe Biden
in 2021 was to aim for half of all new vehicle sales in the U.S. to be zero-emission
battery electric by 2030. Whilst this target was not legally binding it had already
been reduced from 63 percent after Biden had given in to U.S. car makers and
lobby groups. Trump has also pledged to tax Chinese made cars out of the US,
beyond the 102 percent tariff already applied. At last July’s Republican National
Convention Trump said “ I will end the electric vehicle mandate on day one,
thereby saving the auto industry from complete obliteration.” I’m David Berthon

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Government House is open to the public tomorrow Australia Day for a free fun
and family day from 12 noon to 6pm - the Royal Automobile Club displaying a
collection of rare vintage and classic cars. So please come and join us on this
special day and enjoy a self-guided tour of the house and the magnificent
gardens leading down to Sydney Harbour. Bring a picnic lunch or support
Normanhurst Boy Scouts sausage sizzle. Importantly, arriving at noon after an
epic drive from London in a 1925 Bean tourer is Daily Telegraph Cartoonist
Warren Brown and Editor at Large Matthew Benns – the duo in the final stages of
re-enacting the 26,000km odyssey by adventurer Francis Birtles in 1927 in a
similar model Bean. N.S.W Premier Chris Minns will be greeting the somewhat
weather-beaten pair on their arrival at Government House after the drive down
from Darwin. I’m David Berthon

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Driving Toyota’s compact hybrid CH-R SUV, CH-R standing for Coupe High Rider. I’m driving the mid-spec CH-R Koba combining a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a single electric motor for a combined power output of 103kW and 142 Nm in torque – a front wheel drive with a CVT transmission - rather expensive at $49,990 plus on-road costs. As I said earlier the styling is somewhat quirky, different and you either like it or hate it. Toyota’s move to hybrid power across all of its passenger vehicles has been enormously successful – their fifth generation series-parallel hybrid system means either the petrol engine or electric motor can provide drive to the front wheels with the onboard computer deciding what’s best in any given situation. There’s three selectable drive modes, Eco, Power and Sport, but even in the latter the performance is not what you would call rewarding and the CH-R Koba is far from a fire breather. Good economy though and I managed 4.6L/100km with mainly city driving and on 91 octane petrol. There’s much to like with the Toyota CH-R Koba hybrid SUV, it makes a statement but there’s some better compact hybrid SUVs in the market and the price will make many buyers think twice. I’m David Berthon

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Talking about Toyota’s C-HR SUV today – C-HR standing for Coupe High Rider –
a most unusual compact SUV now in its second generation, in three models – the
1.8-litre front drive GXL and mid-spec Koba, and the two-litre turbo all-wheel-drive
top spec Sport and like all Toyota passenger vehicles, all three, now only with
hybrid power. Visually, the CH-R has Toyota’s most adventurous styling, some
might even call it quirky, with a combination of sharp lines and a high waistline it
has real visual appeal, different and perhaps divisive. In this upgraded second-
generation prices rose significantly – I drove the mid-spec Koba which rose by
more than $11,000 to $49,990 plus on-road costs. Expensive for a small SUV
pairing a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a single electric motor driving through a
continuously variable transmission or CVT. The funky styling limits interior
space and its not overly roomy, the second row tight as is boot space. The
interior and dash appealing, the Koba gaining 19-inch alloy wheels, suede interior
highlights, heated front seats, a head-up display, 12.3-inch digital instrument
cluster, wireless phone charging, and a powered tailgate. Disappointingly there’s
no air vents in the rear or a fold down centre armrest. Warranty: five
years/unlimited km. Drive details next. I’m David Berthon

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Someone asked me recently what was my biggest annoyance with many new
cars today. Without doubt the biggest negative with many new models is the
plethora of warning and driver monitoring systems that nearly drive you crazy.
Drive any new Chinese made car and it features a range of safety systems that
warn you via various chimes that you’ve taken your eyes off the road, moved
slightly out of your lane or exceeded the speed limit. Its overdone and in many
new models very poorly calibrated and set for driving conditions that are more
the norm in congested Asian cities. And unfortunately, they can’t be deleted on
the run, the only way to get rid of them is to re-set them at every start. Hyundai
and Kia similarly have excessive warning chimes and frankly they’re
counterproductive to good driving practice and become a major disruption to
concentration. I’m David Berthon

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Talking with a long-term car industry executive recently and the discussion centred on resale values. For the long-established car companies, resale values are very important and seen as a means of establishing brand loyalty with customers. As such, price discounting is carefully managed so as to not disadvantage owners who purchased their car at full retail. However, the arrival of new Chinese brands has changed that traditional way of thinking. With unsold stock heading into the new year heavy discounts have been the order of the day on Chinese models launched only last year. As my industry colleague suggested the Chinese are technology companies rather than car companies, to them a car is purely a commodity like a flat screen TV and prices reductions are the order of the day – resale values it seems mean little although at trade in time it will mean plenty to their customers. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the Mazda 3 hatchback today, the G25 Astina with 2.5-litre naturally
aspirated four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels through a six-speed
automatic. As the top spec model in the 8-model hatch and sedan range not
inexpensive at $43,190. For that money its very highly equipped with safety
comfort and convenience features, the leather clad interior classy and giving it a
very much upmarket feel behind the wheel. The larger 2.5-litre engine giving it
extra punch while its suspension and steering err on the sporty side giving it the
feel of a hot hatch. Recent additions have enhanced its appeal like the addition of
Mazda connected services which link with the MyMazda app which give the
driveR remote access to such things as vehicle health and status reports and
stolen vehicle tracking assistance. The interior is a knockout on this high-grade
model. Beautifully executed with great fit and finishes, nice leather trim and
excellent ergonomics that makes driving a pleasure. Economy, I couldn’t match
the quoted 6.6L/100 and managed 8.7L/100 but on the plus side it does only
require 91 octane regular unleaded. Whilst somewhat expensive the top spec
Mazda 3 G25 Astina punches very much above its weight and feels in a class
above. I’m David Berthon

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The Mazda 3 remains a popular hatch and sedan range despite the fact that SUV’s today dominate the car market and now represent 60 per cent of total sales. The Mazda 3 remains our No 2 selling small car behind the Toyota Corolla, managing to increase sales last year by 16 per cent in a tough market. Recently upgraded the Mazda 3 comes in a range of 8 hatchback and sedan variants – I drove the top spec G25 Astina hatchback at $43,190, a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with six speed automatic. The hatchback body a distinct wedge shape with Mazda’s signature grille – best as a two-seater with the rear seat cramped at best for adults and here the sedan would be the better option. What immediately impresses with this top spec Mazda 3 is the interior – a standout in materials and quality leather in a design that’s well laid out with large instrument binnacle and centre screen and central rotary dial, everything is just so intuitive and easy to use. A great 360-degree camera and a head-up instrument display with everything in your line of sight. As the top line model, the G25 Astina is the Mazda 3 burger with the works – Warranty five-years, unlimited kms. Drive details next. I’m David Berthon

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Despite a new record for new car sales last year, up a marginal 0.3 per cent on 2023, the car industry believes 2025 will be a much harder market. Sales in 2024 were somewhat buoyed as car makers cleared backorders due to production constraints in 2022 and 2023. The market this year is expected to be far more subdued. The drop in demand is expected as a number of new Chinese brands enter our market, already one of the most competitive in the world. Many new Chinese brands are already heavily discounting with a large carryover of excess stock as sales of electric model’s stall. Electric car sales last year grew by just 4.7 percent, Tesla remaining the top seller with 38,347 sales, down 17 percent on 2023 despite price cuts of up to $9,500. I’m David Berthon

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Not surprisingly, the release of V-Facts car industry sales figures for 2024 early this week showed Toyota to once again dominate the new vehicle market, recording 241,296 sales, its 22 consecutive year of market leadership. Almost 1 in 5 cars sold last year was a Toyota with hybrid electric vehicles making up close to half the company’s annual tally. The mid-size Toyota RAV 4 was the top selling SUV for the fifth consecutive year with 58,718 sales, close to double the number sold in 2023, also becoming the country’s best selling hybrid vehicle. Clearly, whilst the overall car market achieved its best ever result last year on the back of strong sales in the first half, the market was far more subdued in the second half and faces a tough start this year off the back of several economic challenges. I’m David Berthon

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Over the Xmas break I drove the top line Genesis GV80 AWD SUV with 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 linked to an 8-speed automatic and limited slip rear differential. Now at around $135,000 drive-away it jumps off the mark with strong performance despite a rather hefty weight, feels absolutely bulletproof, super quiet and despite its dimensions shrinks around you when pushed hard thanks to its road preview electronic adaptive suspension. This sophisticated suspension was refined last year to delete pitch on rough surfaces with a less figidity ride. Safety wise, 10 airbags in total but disappointingly, the head airbags don’t extend to the third-row seats. The luxury equipment extensive, a recent mid-life update saw the price climb however a previous $10,500 option pack including heated and ventilated rear seats, power rear door shades, 3 zone climate control, and a Nappa leather appointed interior is now standard. Quality and fit and finish as good if not better than the dearer top-class German SUV’s. Genesis owner support impressive - a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, five-years complimentary servicing including valet pick-up and return, 10-year 24/7 roadside assistance and 10-year map updates. The wagon version tested here was joined earlier this year by a more sporty looking Coupe. I’m David Berthon

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Talking Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis today, the flagship GV80 SUV which
now also comes in a rather sporting looking coupe version. However, I’ve just
driven the recently updated 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol GV80 seven-seat all-wheel-
drive SUV, at around $135,000 drive-away with an 8-speed torque automatic. The
GV80 oozes quality and refinement, the body feels bullet proof, superbly
insulated, and exquisitely detailed. Joining the upper echelon of motoring
Genesis knew they had to build something rather special, loaded with luxury
features and standout quality. I covered some long distances over the holiday
break and cruising at the open road limit achieved 8.3 L/100km – impressive for
such a large SUV. The GV80 has what Genesis call a road preview electronic
control suspension – using a forward camera to scour the road surface ahead for
undulations and potholes, it then adjusts the damping force accordingly. Genesis
may not yet match the badge cachet or sales of Mercedes and BMW’s large SUV’s
but in terms of quality, refinement and fit and finish this South Korean brand is up
there with the very best - just so impressive in all it does and offering a cost
saving over the German competition in the process. Only real disappointment –
the lack of a spare wheel. I’m David Berthon

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Mazda’s small CX-3 SUV remains our most popular light SUV, the long-standing
model continues to grow year on year. Mazda have just refreshed the range for
2025, dropping the entry Sport model, the reshuffle seeing the most affordable
CX-3 rise by $3,420. The CX-3 Pure grade now opening the 2025 range at $30,370
plus on-road costs, a rise of $920. The CX-3 has been around in much the same
guise now for around 10 years, it’s an oldie but a goodie, a model I’ve always
highly regarded and despite its age sales last year lifted by 17 percent, and it
remains Mazda’s second-best seller. The new entry Pure grade gains some new
features – adaptive cruise control, larger 18-inch alloy wheels replacing 16’s and
new higher speed active Autonomous emergency braking. I’m David Berthon

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As a long-standing car enthusiast, I was interested in a recent U.S. survey by the
auction house Hagerty. For some time now it has been thought the love of the
automobile evident with older generations would die off moving forward.
However, the survey found the Gen-Z generation, those born between 1997 and
2012, had a significantly greater interest in owning a classic car of example than
Baby Boomers born between 1946 and 1964. The ‘Future of Driving Survey
quizzed Americans about the role that cars play in their life, their behaviours tied
to cars and driving, the role of new cars and a lot more. Contrary to what was
previously thought, driving is alive and well, 77 percent of Gen-Z respondents
saying they either loved or liked driving, indicating a promising future for the car.
Motoring it seems is alive and well. I’m David Berthon

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Heading off on a long drive over the holiday period. Here’s a few simple tips to
manage fatigue one of the three big killers on our roads. The end of the working
day is certainly not the time to head off on that long drive. Statistics show you’re
four times more likely to have a fatal fatigue crash between the hours of 10pm
and dawn so don’t head off after a hard week at work – the highest number of
fatal crashes occur in the afternoon peak period on a Friday. Head off early
morning after a good sleep and a hearty breakfast when your energy levels are
high. Carry plenty of water. – as well as being well hydrated it also means more
toilet stops along the way. Good posture also lessens fatigue. As a guide, sit
upright - stretch out your left arm so that your palm touches the top of the wheel.
Adjust the seat length accordingly and bring the back of the seat up to give you
good lumbar support. Driving long distances is also hard on the eyes – glare is a
major contributor to fatigue so pull the sun visor down to the horizon and cut out
as much sky as possible. All simple stuff I know but it could well save your life.
I’m David Berthon

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I talk about this at this time each year but it’s just so important - holiday time
and you may be about to take long road trip with the family. Time to give a little
thought to fatigue as it’s one of the three major killers on our roads – fatigue
related accidents now account for more deaths than those attributed to drink
driving. We now generally work longer hours. As such, fatigue is far more
prevalent so it’s no coincidence that the highest number of fatal crashes occur in
the afternoon peak period on a Friday. The end of the working day is not the time
to head off on that long drive into the country. Statistics show you’re four times
more likely to have a fatal fatigue crash between the hours of 10pm and dawn –
leave the next morning after a good sleep and a hearty breakfast when your
energy levels are high. Carry plenty of water. Share the driving – one hour on -
one hour off and take 15-minute break every two hours. Long distance driving
with the family is all about teamwork - never let your front seat passenger nod off.
Keep the rear seat solely for the sleepers, A talkative front passenger is another
set of eyes. I’m David Berthon

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I spoke earlier how the Federal Government has announced it is providing $150
million in funding to subsidise loans for electric vehicle purchases. Designed for
workers earning less than $100,000 per year. Surprisingly, the Federal Chamber
of Automotive Industries came out in support of the move despite the fact that EV
sales the world over have slowed and at a time when an increasing numbers of
new and affordable Chinese electric brands and models are entering the
Australian market. I’m not against electric cars, far from it, they offer some
excellent benefits however Chris Bowen’s obsession with subsidizing their
purchase with taxpayer money really irks me – electric car owners don’t pay a
cent for road maintenance whereas petrol or diesel owners contribute 50.6 cents
a litre through fuel excise. Surely it’s time we had a fairer road user charge . I’m
David Berthon

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Fresh from hearing that budget deficits over the next four years are forecast to blow out by another 20 billion dollars comes news the Federal Government will help finance $150 million in low interest loans through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation for workers earning less than $100,000 per year, as well as essential workers such as police officers and teachers, to help them buy an electric car. The media release suggesting the move could save buyers more than $8,000 on a $40,000 loan. According to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen, the discounted loans help remove barriers to ownership helping more Australians drive cars that can save them thousands of dollars a year. EV owners pay no petrol excise to maintain our roads, currently 50.6 cents per litre, so why should they also get a subsidized loan – it’s ridiculous. I’m David Berthon.

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Driving Mitsubishi’s seven-seat mid-size Outlander SUV – it comes in a large range of front and all-wheel drive models in pure petrol or plug-in hybrid – I’m driving the top-line petrol Exceed 4WD – a 2.5-litre four-cylinder CVT automatic at $52,640. So how does it drive – the naturally aspirated petrol engine with 135kW and 244 Nm of torque is adequate, it’s no fire breather however the continuously variable transmission taps the power and torque well, but push it hard and it tends to surge a little like most CVT transmissions, however for the heavy work it has 8 pre-set manual gear ratios you can access via the steering wheel mounted shift paddles. The suspension is set up for one or seven passengers, as such it’s not sporty but provides a very comfortable ride and driving experience while the steering offers the ability to add more assistance if needed. The driving experience also aided by six drive modes – three, normal, eco and sport that adjust steering and transmission settings plus three offroad modes that give the Outlander a more adventurous spirit. As I said earlier, good economy 8.7L/100 on 91 Octane petrol. As a family carrier there’s much to like with Mitsubishi’s Outlander Exceed and little to criticize. I’m David Berthon

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Driving Mitsubishi’s mid-size Outlander SUV today, the company’s best seller
and the second best selling mid-size SUV behind Toyota’s RAV4. I’m driving the
top spec 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol CVT automatic Outlander
Exceed 4WD at $52,640. On first impression, a roomy plush interior - in fact its
interior space gives the impression you’re driving a much larger SUV and you can
see why it is very popular with large families. And this is its best benefit over the
RAV 4 the fact that it has seven seats. All three rows also offer climate control air
with separate controls in each. Although the third row is best sized for kids.
Equipment comprehensive – a wireless phone charger, power tailgate. leather
seats with memory function up front, a head up display, 12.3-inch digital
instrument cluster, pull up sun blinds for the second-row seats and 10-speaker
Bose sound. And don’t forget Mitsubishi’s 10-year/200,000km warranty, a real
buyer benefit. Servicing, every 12 months or 15,0000kms, the first five years
costing a reasonable $1700. Towing average at 1600 kilos braked and here the
2.5-litre four-cylinder would struggle with a heavy load. Good economy though –
on 91 octane petrol I managed 8.7L/100. Five-star ANCAP safety. Drive details
next segment I’m David Berthon

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With 2025 just around the corner its worth reminding potential car buyers that
there is still some 2023 build stock in the market and if you are in the market to
buy a new car its worth checking the build plate on the model you buy. A 2023
build car purchased in 2025 has already suffered two years depreciation so you
need a better than average discount. Some car makers are offering incentives on
old stock – Honda for example is offering drive-away discounts on its 2023-build
ZR-V and CR-V mid-size SUV’s – $2,500 to $3,000 off their respective drive-away
price plus five complimentary scheduled services worth $995, and providing a
further $2,500 contribution when you purchase them through Honda Financial
Services. All 2023 ZR-V and CR-V models also come with an extended eight-year
unlimited kilometre warranty and eight-years roadside assistance. I’m David
Berthon

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Kia Australia’s CEO Damien Meredith recent comments on the slowdown of
electric car sales is interesting. Suggesting the car industry has hit the limit when
it comes to early adopters of EVs and that with New Vehicle Emission Standards
due next year it will be a struggle to sell more hybrid and electric cars to offset
sales of high emission vehicles and avoid government fines. The Governments
new CO2 rules take effect from January 1 while the penalties take effect from July
1 and will force car brands to hit CO2 emission targets on each vehicle they sell.
As Meredith said this week regarding the EV slowdown ‘it’s a tough situation,
we’ve got to sell more EV’s, we’ve got to basically sell, in percentage terms,
double what we’re doing at the moment to meet our requirement for the new
emission rules.’ Watch this space. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the BMW iX3 M-Sport SUV today – the more affordable electric version of
its best-selling mid-size X3 range, introduced earlier this year at $89,100. Nicely
specified despite being nearly $16,000 more affordable to the top spec iX3 M-
Sport Pro. So how does it drive. Featuring a 80kWh battery powering a
210kW/400Nm single electric motor driving the rear wheels only via a single
speed transmission. A very rewarding EV with a slight hum in a very well
insulated and torsionally stiff body giving it a classy edge – I found I was using
energy consumption on average around 18kWhours per 100 kilometres not quite
achieving BMW’s stated range of 460kms but not far off. Charging time on my
11kW home charger ran to around 7/12 hours overnight but with the ability to take
a 150kW charge rate BMW suggesting a 10-80 percent charge could be as quick
as 34 minutes. A good level of safety technology but disappointingly lacking rear
cross traffic alert. But as a rear drive only surprisingly nimble and with BMW’s
wheel slip control system and adaptive suspension very controlled irrespective of
road surface. The BMW iX3 M Sport a generally well packaged and extremely
comfortable prestige electric SUV. I’m David Berthon

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Talking BMW today, the best-selling German luxury brand after displacing Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury import last year. BMW has had a good degree of success with its EV range, and I recently drove the iX3 M-Sport SUV, the electric version of its best-selling mid-size X3 SUV, introduced earlier this year at $89,100, joining the more expensive iX3 M-Sport Pro. The iX3 M-Sport not as well equipped as its Pro stablemate but on first impression nicely packaged retaining the same powertrain – utilising an 80kWh battery to power a 210kW/400Nm electric motor driving the rear wheels only through a single speed transmission – offering a driving range of up to 460kms. The iX3 M-Sport features some nice M- Sport touches like high-gloss roof rails, M leather steering wheel and illuminated door finishes with BMW M inscription, leather trim and a panoramic glass sunroof. Only real give-away to the dearer Pro model is smaller 19-inch alloy wheels and the lack of a head up instrument display. The interior packaging first class, great seats, plus a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and same size infotainment screen, the latter very intuitive. But, just a space saver spare wheel. Warranty, five-years/unlimited km. drive details next. I’m David Berthon

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I spoke earlier this morning on the massive discounts being offered by MG Motor
Australia on its electric MG4 hatchback for the month of December. The five-
model range carrying discounts of up to $10,910 - the entry Excite 51 model now
just $32,990 drive-away. With a 10-year warranty and a high level of equipment it’s
a very compelling offer. However, this race to the bottom with pricing gives little
thought to the customers who paid much higher prices earlier in the year. As a
long time car industry figure said to me this week early MG 4 customers will pay
heavily at trade in time. With EVs now being heavily discounted low resale values
are something that many early adopters of electric cars are now finding, and
many dealers will now not offer a trade-in price for example on older Tesla
models. I’m David Berthon

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For the seventh time this year MG Motor Australia has slashed the price of its
electric MG4 hatchback with incredible savings on its five-model range during the
month of December – the entry MG4 Excite 51 now $32,990 drive-away, a saving
of up to $8,457, the higher grade Excite 64 from $34,990 drive-away, some $10,910
cheaper than before. And similar savings are available on the Essence 64 and 77
grades as well as the topflight XPower all-wheel drive. The Chinese importer
suggesting the December only deals proving it is continuing to lead the way
forward for buyers wishing to make the switch to EV motoring – however this
race to the bottom in EV pricing gives little thought to those who bought the MG4
at much higher prices earlier this year whose resale values have now been blown
out of the water. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the Suzuki Swift today, a small five-door hatch in its fourth generation,
now in mild hybrid form and little different visually. I drove the top spec Swift GLX
combining a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a 2.3kW integrated starter
generator and a 12-volt lithium-ion battery driving through a continuously
variable automatic with manual shift paddles. Super light at just 957Kg just so
nimble and easy to drive – the three cylinders a little noisy, it has a hum about it,
the steering light and the ride comforting for such a small car. The interior a big
improvement with a larger touchscreen, nice seats, a little tight in the rear but
understandable for a small hatch, quality from the Japan’s small car company
hard to criticize. The big question is how the hybrid element is employed – it
doesn’t drive in pure electric mode but adds a touch more power to the three-
cylinder engine when required. A pleasant small car, but at times a little course
and not as sweet as the previous 1.0-litre turbo Swift I remember. Good economy,
5.3L/100km but now requiring dearer 95 grade petrol. A nice well equipped small
hatch but to me now starting to show its age a little in certain areas. I’m David
Berthon

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Driving the relatively new Suzuki Swift Hybrid five-door hatchback – available in
three models, I drove the top-line GLX. The latest Suzuki Swift now in its fourth
generation comes only in hybrid form – combining a 1.2-litre three-cylinder
engine with what’s described as a mild hybrid system – a 2.3kW integrated starter
generator and a 12-volt lithium-ion battery. The GLX grade at $29,490 drive-away
sharply priced and highly equipped, with CVT transmission and manual shift
paddles, larger 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control air, and wireless phone
charging. The latest Swift looks little different to its predecessor. Despite the
hybrid tag there is no EV-only motoring, this is predominately a petrol car with
minimal electric motor torque – as such the drive feels little different to a pure
petrol model - the three-cylinder engine has a distinct hum to it while with an all-
up weight of just 957kg the Swift GLX automatic is a particularly nimble small car
around town. I managed 5.3L/100km and whilst that’s impressive it does need a
diet of dearer 95-octane petrol. A pleasant small hatchback in many ways, well
priced, highly equipped with safety and driving technology but some elements of
this latest Suzuki Swift hybrid left me thinking it was becoming a little dated. I’m
David Berthon

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Fatalities on country roads are overrepresented so top marks to the NSW
Government and Roads Minister John Graham for announcing a trial of new glow
in the dark line markings for some of our traditional black spots. The
photoluminescent road markings will be initially tested for six months on the
hairpin turn on Bulli Pass due to a spike in near-miss accidents between 9pm and
4am. The N.S.W. Government said around 125 near accidents had been reported
along Bulli Pass in the 12 months to June 30 and the glow in the dark line
markings located part way down the pass will increase awareness of the sharp
bend. Around a third of fatal crashes in N.S.W. happen at night and the Roads
Minister suggests if the trial is successful, it will be used on other black spot
areas. Surely an excellent initiative. I’m David Berthon

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After creating a media storm a few weeks back by announcing a bold new
direction Jaguar this week defined its bold new design language during Miami Art
week.. Understandably, the traditionalists went into overload at the reveal of what
it called its Type 00 design language. The five-metre-long coupe in vivid pink said
to be a pure expression of Jaguar’s new creative philosophy, explained in just
two words: exuberant modernism. According to Jaguars chief creative officer
Gerry McGovern “ the Type 00 is the result of brave, unconstrained creative
thinking and unwavering determination – the foundation stone for a new family of
Jaguars that will look unlike anything you’ve seen before.” It’s certainly that, an
exceptionally brave move ending 89 years of tradition and one can understand
why the company expects to only retain around 10-15 percent of its existign
customer base. I’m David Berthon

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Driving the facelifted 2.2-litre turbo diesel Kia Sorrento GT-line all-wheel-drive
SUV today – the best-selling variant – at $72,690 drive-away able to travel nearly
1000km on a full tank and I averaged 7.1 L/100 with mainly around town driving.
The Sorento a seven-seater but like most large SUV’s best as a five-seater with
above average luggage space. Access to the third row in seven seaters always
difficult and the Sorento is no exception. The 2.2-litre turbo diesel has average
power and torque and drives through an 8-speed dual clutch automatic with
manual shift paddles – importantly. it doesn’t sound like a trusty diesel but is
smooth, quiet and refined. The Sorrento GT-line’s high point is suspension tune –
Kia Australia always does its homework with local ride and handling tune and it’s
just so polished whether fully laden with luggage or just with a driver. The
steering now also further refined, the drive experience overall simply first class.
Towing somewhat limited however at a max 2000 kilos braked. It has all the latest
driving assist modes and safety elements apart from the curtain airbags not
extending to the third-row seats. It gets a full-size spare wheel while servicing
costs over three years $1308, over five years $2427. I’m David Berthon

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In January Kia upgraded its seven-passenger Sorento SUV with enhanced styling
inside and out, the fourth generation with more comfort and convenience
equipment and safety, In addition to petrol and diesel models a petrol/electric
hybrid has now been added, each power source available in front or all-wheel
drive. I drove the 2.2-litre turbo diesel eight-speed automatic Sorento GT-line all-
wheel drive at $72,690 driveaway – the most popular model and with nearly a
1000km range this is a big SUV for a big country. The petrol versions simply too
thirsty. The new chiseled styling is in the mould of Kia’s all electric EV9 and new
EV5 and along with new 20-inch alloy wheels the Sorento GT-line has real visual
appeal. The interior has always appealed especially with the new curved dual
12.3-inch display screens featuring large menu icons and with Kia’s latest
infotainment system now able to offer wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
Disappointingly, the interior of the GT-line is only available in a dark
grey/charcoal interior which limits its appeal. Seat comfort on the other hand
with a power drivers and passenger seat first class, the trim plush Nappa leather.
Kia quality overall impressive while the support of a 7-year/unlimited kilometre
warranty very re-assuring. I’m David Berthon

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