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Motoring News

2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE

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2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE
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2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE

Genesis GV70 is an attractive looking vehicle with rear lines that are definitely SUV.

By EWAN KENNEDY

South Korean car manufacturer Genesis has launched its GV70, a medium luxury SUV in Australia. It’s the company’s first vehicle in this class and has some interesting features both inside and out.
There is a choice of three engines driving through an eight-speed automatic and either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Genesis GV70 offers eleven exterior colours, seven interior colours and four trim insert to let buyers have their individual preferences.
The GV70 is available with an optional Sport Line Package and/or Luxury Package. The Sport Line Package was fitted to our test car. Details are provided in the body of this road test review.
The Luxury Package has intelligent Front-Lighting System, puddle lamps with Genesis logo and rear privacy glass.
Prices, excluding on-road costs, range from $66,400 for a GV70 2.5T 2WD to $83,276 for a 3.5T Sport AWD.
Genesis sees its vehicles as competing with the upmarket German marques and the GV70 is certainly part of that plan. However, we feel that’s an almost impossible wish…

STYLING
Genesis GV70 is an attractive looking vehicle with lines that are definitely SUV in the rear. Some competitors have gone for a semi-coupe look, but the Genesis stylists have given us a vehicle with a practical tail.
The rearmost side windows have a fascinating shape that certainly stands out from others in this ever more popular segment of the car market in Australia.
The large panoramic sunroof is likely to be a strong selling point.
The large grille is very much after the style of the latest Genesis cars and seems sure to appeal to potential buyers. Its slim horizontal front lights broaden the frontal appearance.
The Sport Line Package has 19-inch Sport Line alloy wheels, sporty front and rear bumpers, gloss black sport radiator grille, front skid plate and roof rails. It has a dark chrome radiator grille surround and window frame trims.

INTERIOR

2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE

2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE

Inside, the Sport Line package features Nappa leather and suede appointed sport seats, suede headlining and pillars, a sport steering wheel, alloy pedals, aluminium trim. There are sport gauges for oil temperature and also torque and turbo boost gauges to let the driver get the best from the engine.
The centre console is bulky and tall and really seems to separate the front occupants from one another.

INFOTAINMENT
The screen is very wide but not as deep as we would like it, so we couldn’t not see as far enough ahead on the map. Reaching for the far end of the screen while driving could be too distracting. Obviously, you shouldn’t be doing this – but human nature being what it is…
Entertainment comes from a nine-speaker Genesis audio system which has excellent quality of aural output.
There’s wireless (Qi standard) smartphone charging.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
Engines on offer are the GV70 2.5T which has a 2.5 litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with 224kW of power and 422Nm of torque. This is the model we tested.
Genesis GV70 2.2D has 2.2 litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel producing 154kW of power and 440 Nm of torque. It uses an electronically controlled Genesis AWD system.
The flagship GV70 has 3.5-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 with 279kW and 530Nm it’s also paired with the electronically controlled Genesis AWD system, and an electro-mechanical limited slip differential on the rear axle.

SAFETY
Every GV70 model has eight airbags, with a centre side airbag between the front seats to prevent serious injuries due to potential driver and passenger collision.
To help avoid a crash there’s Genesis intelligent Active Safety Control technologies.

DRIVING

2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE

2021 GENESIS GV70 SPORT LINE

The Genesis GV70 is quite a large vehicle, but doesn’t feel like it on the road where it’s simple to drive within the lanes, even to smooth out the bends by clipping the corners. It’s not a sports machine but comes closer than many others in the class that we have tested.
The engine may be a four-cylinder 2.5 litre turbo-petrol, but it produces 224kW of power and 422Nm of torque. Once you get below the reasonably short period of turbo lag it gets up and flies with the feeling and sound being almost that of a decent sized six-cylinder – that’s smart.
The eight-speed automatic transmission is quick to response to the needs of the driver and we really didn’t find the need to override the choices made by the transmission’s computer.
However, it does like a drink and we were typically using petrol at a rate of eleven to thirteen litres per hundred kilometres around town. This dropped to a much more acceptable seven to eight litres per hundred during easy paced country touring.
Hallelujah! Wonderful news for me and anyone else who has polarised sunglasses. I can read the image projected on the screen giving vehicle speed and other details. On other cars I have to tilt my head to read it, which is ridiculous. Hopefully all other car makers will follow Genesis’ lead.

SUMMING UP
The first attempt at providing an SUV with looks and practicality means the Genesis GV70 is likely to appeal to many buyers in this burgeoning market segment.
It obviously doesn’t have the snob appeal of the big-name German vehicles, but if you can overlook that it’s well worth a spot on your list of potential SUVs .

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2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

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2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionise the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure. Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag five” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of off-road capability, luxury, and tech.

Power and Range At the heart of the Smart #5 is a massive 100kWh battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fidelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.

Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild off-road tasks with all-wheel-drive traction and ample ground clearance. For those looking to push further into the wild, an optional off-road pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.

Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality head-up display, giving drivers enhanced navigation and information at a glance. Powered by a water-cooled computer processor, the system can run movies and video games, turning the car into an entertainment hub for remote locations.

2025 Smart #5 Interior

2025 Smart #5 Interior

The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold flat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.

Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.

Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confirmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.

The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person.

With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or modern conveniences.

 

For more motoring news, click here.

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Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

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Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The Polestar 4 is the latest addition to Polestar’s growing lineup of electric vehicles, positioned as a dynamic all-electric SUV coupé that combines cutting-edge design, high performance, and advanced technology. Sitting between the Polestar 2 and the luxury Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 is set to push boundaries with its futuristic aesthetics and sustainable innovations.

Design and Aesthetics

The Polestar 4 embodies a sleek, coupe-like profile with a focus on aerodynamics and a minimalist design philosophy. In a departure from traditional SUV styling, the Polestar 4 embraces a lower, more streamlined shape with smooth lines, frameless windows, and a bold front end devoid of a traditional grille, highlighting its fully electric nature.

One of the most striking features of the Polestar 4 is its rear-windowless design, which replaces the traditional rear window with a digital rearview camera, enhancing both the car’s futuristic look and its aerodynamic efficiency.

Performance and Powertrain

The Polestar 4 is expected to offer dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations, delivering a strong combination of power and efficiency. While specific power outputs are yet to be fully disclosed, early indications suggest that the Polestar 4 will offer a significant amount of power, rivalling other high-performance electric SUVs in its class.

With a long-range battery pack, the Polestar 4 is expected to provide an impressive range, making it suitable for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys. Fast-charging capabilities will also feature, allowing for quick top-ups on long drives.

Interior and Technology

Polestar has equipped the 4 with a high-tech, eco-friendly interior that emphasises sustainability. The cabin will feature recycled and vegan materials, aligning with the brand’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Polestar’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design ensures a clean, sophisticated interior with intuitive controls and ample space.

A large infotainment screen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, will dominate the dashboard, offering seamless integration with apps such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other connected services. Polestar’s digital experience will also be enhanced with over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing for continuous improvements to software features post-purchase.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Polestar vehicles are known for their focus on safety, and the Polestar 4 will likely feature the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This could include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision avoidance technologies. The inclusion of autonomous driving features, similar to the Polestar 3, is also anticipated, further enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials.

Sustainability Focus

In keeping with Polestar’s sustainability goals, the Polestar 4 will prioritise eco-friendly manufacturing processes and materials. The company has set ambitious targets for reducing its carbon emissions and increasing the use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle’s construction.

Market and Availability

The Polestar 4 is expected to launch in 2024, with deliveries beginning shortly after in key global markets, including Europe, the U.S., and China. Positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in terms of price and size, the Polestar 4 aims to appeal to customers seeking a stylish, performance-oriented electric SUV without compromising on sustainability or luxury.

As Polestar continues to expand its portfolio, the new model represents a significant step in the brand’s vision of redefining the electric vehicle market with innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cars.

 

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been officially revealed, showcasing a significant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confirmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.

The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.

Performance Highlights:

  • The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making it just shy of the 700kW figure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.
  • The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.
  • The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.

Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refined balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.

2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior

2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior

The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.

The RS Performance features a carbon-fibre roof, optional ‘carbon camouflage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal film, which can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.

Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.

On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplified four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.

With these significant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a high-performance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.

 

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