Petrol and Hybrid Jeep Avenger Headed for Australia

By Jeff Gibbs

Jeep Australia has confirmed plans to broaden its compact SUV lineup with petrol and hybrid versions of the all-new Avenger, complementing its recently launched fully electric (BEV) model. The move could see more affordable options entering the local market soon.

Speaking at the Avenger EV launch, Stellantis Australia product manager Bridget Thomson hinted at the possibility of additional powertrains. “We’re excited to launch the BEV but wouldn’t rule out future powertrain enhancements,” Thomson said. While declining to confirm specific options, she teased the potential for petrol and hybrid variants, including the mild hybrid and four-wheel-drive 4xe hybrid available in Europe.

Currently priced between $49,990 and $60,990 (before on-road costs), the Avenger EV targets the competitive small SUV segment dominated by the likes of the MG ZS. Introducing petrol and hybrid options could offer more affordable alternatives and boost Jeep’s market share in Australia.

The Avenger’s journey to Australia wasn’t straightforward, requiring significant lobbying to convince former global Jeep CEO Christian Meunier of its suitability for the local market. “It’s smaller than other cars here, which took some convincing, but we knew it would work for Australia,” Thomson revealed.

While no timeline has been set for the introduction of petrol or hybrid Avengers, Thomson noted that such approvals vary widely. However, with small SUVs remaining popular in Australia and EV sales showing signs of slowing, expanding the Avenger lineup could prove a smart strategy.

Jeep’s push to diversify its offerings aligns with recent efforts to expand its powertrain options. “We’ve made a conscious effort to give more people more choice,” Thomson said, citing the Compass (available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid) and the Grand Cherokee (offered in ICE and plug-in hybrid) as examples.

With the addition of petrol and hybrid Avengers, Jeep is poised to attract a broader audience and strengthen its foothold in Australia’s competitive small SUV market.

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2025 Kia EV9 GT Unveiled: 368kW, Advanced Tech, and Performance Focus

By Jeff Gibbs

The highly anticipated 2025 Kia EV9 GT, the most powerful electric SUV in Kia’s lineup, has finally been revealed at the LA Motor Show, marking a new performance benchmark for the brand. This flagship model boasts cutting-edge technology, exceptional power, and unique design features, setting it apart from its siblings in the EV9 range.

Key Highlights

• Dual-Motor Powertrain: Produces 368kW and 700Nm of torque, with a boost mode temporarily increasing torque to 800Nm.
• Impressive Acceleration: 0–100km/h in just 4.3 seconds.
• Likely 99.8kWh Battery: Expected driving range exceeding 500km.
• Performance-Enhanced Chassis: Includes an electronic limited-slip differential, electronically controlled dampers, and upgraded braking systems.
• Innovative Features: Simulated engine sounds and artificial gear shifts for a tactile driving experience.

Performance Powerhouse

The EV9 GT features a dual-motor electric powertrain with 368kW in standard configuration, a significant leap from the 283kW of the current EV9 GT-Line. Boost mode adds even more power, delivering 800Nm of torque for short bursts. Despite a detuned combined output compared to the smaller EV6 GT, the EV9 GT achieves a rapid 4.3-second sprint from 0 to 100km/h.

The advanced powertrain is underpinned by Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), integrating 800V high-voltage architecture for ultra-fast charging capabilities. While official range figures for the GT are yet to be confirmed, it is expected to match or exceed the 500km mark seen in other E-GMP models.

Performance Engineering

The EV9 GT delivers exceptional handling through a suite of performance-oriented upgrades:

• Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD): Optimises power distribution for improved cornering and traction.
• Electronically Controlled Dampers: Tuned for adaptive, high-performance driving dynamics.
• Upgraded Braking System: Larger discs enhance stopping power, paired with an all-wheel-drive system ensuring traction across both axles.

Exclusive Design and Features

The EV9 GT’s bold design includes:

• GT-Specific Enhancements: Distinctive bumpers, unique badging, and exclusive wheel designs.
• Enhanced Interior: Seats with improved lateral support, exclusive trim materials, and custom ambient lighting configurations.

The cabin retains Kia’s signature widescreen display setup, combining:

• A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
• A 12.3-inch central touchscreen.
• A supplementary display panel for additional controls.

Connectivity features include over-the-air software updates and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), ensuring the EV9 GT stays at the forefront of technology.

Simulated Driving Experience

Inspired by the smaller Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, the EV9 GT incorporates simulated engine sounds and artificial gear shifts, offering a tactile and auditory experience that mimics traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Australian Availability and Pricing

Details of the EV9 GT’s Australian launch are yet to be confirmed, but it is expected to arrive in 2025. Pricing is speculative, but given the GT-Line starts at $120,000, the GT is likely to exceed $130,000–$140,000. Kia’s local arm has expressed strong interest in bringing the model to market.

The 2025 Kia EV9 GT represents a bold step forward in electric performance SUVs, combining cutting-edge technology, thrilling performance, and luxurious features to redefine expectations in the segment.

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“Australian lightweight champion from lil ol’ Swan Bay”

By Samantha Elley

Maddog boxing’s Sunny McLean has been going from strength to strength this past year, grabbing titles from each of the events he has been fighting in.

Sunny McLean and his coach, Scott Smith, who runs Maddox Boxing, were recently picked to represent Queensland as the fighter and coach team to compete in the national titles in Gosford.

Sunny won all his elimination bouts and beat the NSW champion in the gold medal fight, to become the newly crowned Australian champion in the lightweight division.

They were surprised with a visit from Jason and Andrew Moloney, world champion professional boxers.

“Every state in Australia was there with all the best fighters and the (Moloney brothers) came to support us, so we felt so special,” said Scott.

“They came to help me prepare Sunny for his last two fights in this event.”

Sunny was competing for Queensland as he already holds the title of QLD/NSW interstate champion.

“His first opponent, the referee stopped the fight in the 3rd round,” said Scott.

“His second opponent was the favourite from Tasmania and Sunny won that fight to go through for the gold medal against the NSW champion.

“Andy (co-trainer) and I worked out a plan to beat him and Sunny did exactly what he was asked and never last control of the situation.

“He is now the Australian lightweight champion from lil ol Swan Bay.”

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