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Motoring News

2022 HYUNDAI KONA N LINE

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Hyundai Kona 2021
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2022 HYUNDAI KONA N LINE

By EWAN KENNEDY

Hyundai has a very strong lineup of models in its Kona series – everything from conventional petrol-engined models all the way up to a full electric. This week’s road test review car is the Kona N-Line.

It’s a sporty looking vehicle, though without the impressive performance of its big brother the more expensive Kona N Performance.

The Kona is sold in a crowded class, with its major competitors being Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 Mitsubishi ASX and Toyota C-HR.

STYLING

Hyundai Kona 2021

Hyundai is a cross between a hatchback and an SUV.

Kona is a cross between a hatchback and an SUV in its shape. The protection around the wheels arches adds to the SUV look. The body is stylish without going over the top.

We particularly like the interesting front shape with its high-level daytime running lights and the low-slung headlights.

The N-Line has a revised front bumper and there are side skirts. Dual exhaust tailpipes provide a tough look to drivers following you.

Ground clearance is 170mm which is higher than the typical on-road hatchback but falls well short of the 210mm in real four-wheel drives. That 170mm does add to the business-like appearance.

INTERIOR

Hyundai Kona 2021

Hyundai is a cross between a hatchback and an SUV.

There’s an upmarket look inside the Kona. We really like the practical dashboard with its large dials and an easy to see 10.5-inch centre display set at the same level as the instruments so you spend minimum time looking away from the road to check it.

There’s rather too much black inside for our tastes, but to some extent that’s broken up by the red stitches on the sports seats and the steering wheel.

INFOTAINMENT
The N-Line has an eight-speaker Harman/Kardon premium sound system. We found the setup of the speakers is just right and it provides the sort of sound.

There are interfaces for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine produces 110kW of power and 180Nm of torque, the latter at a pretty high 4500 rpm. Most drivers will seldom go as high as 4500, however there’s reasonable punch below that number.

The automatic is a continuously variable transmission to maximise performance and minimise petrol consumption. As part of the mid-life makeover the CVT replaced the six-speed conventional auto previously used. Read our opinion of this auto in the Driving section of this road test review.

SAFETY
All Kona models have received five stars from ANCAP. It has six airbags, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist and lane-following assist.

Rear occupant alert is there in case you’ve forgotten there are kids in the back seats when you get out.

DRIVING
The CVT automatic has been designed by Hyundai engineers to give it a feeling of having preset ratios, it did jar a little but we soon ceased to notice what was happening under the bonnet.

You can sort of use it as a manual by changing ‘gears’ if you feel that way inclined. After trying this we simply left if to do its own thing.

There’s less room in rear seat of the Kona than we had expected, meaning I had to move my driving seat forward a couple of notches to provide knee room for anyone behind me.

The Koreans have a long history of tuning their cars to suit Australian roads and what we Aussie drivers like in the way of handling and comfort. Kona is obviously not a sports car but does hold on nicely during cornering and gives good feedback through the steering while and your backside.

It’s a bit noisy on gravel road and there’s some bump-thump on concrete road joins such as those on our road test section on the M1 motorway between Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Fuel consumption during our test period was in the 8 to 10 litres per hundred kilometres in town and suburban driving. It fell to five to six litres per hundred on country and motorway testing.

All Hyundais have a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a lifetime capped-price-servicing plan.

SUMMING UP
The updated Hyundai Kona offers a lot of car for a pretty modest price. We feel this update is a worthwhile one and we reckon it should certainly be on your list of cars to be checked out.

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE
2.0 Kona 2WD: $26,600
2.0 Active 2WD: $28,200
2.0 Elite 2WD: $31,600
2.0 Highlander 2WD: $38,000
1.6 Kona N Line AWD: $36,300
1.6 N Line Premium AWD: $42,400
EV Elite Standard Range: $54,500
EV Elite Extended Range: $60,500
EV Highlander Standard Range: $58,000
Extended Range: $64,000
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Hyundai dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Hyundai Kona N Line 1.6-litre petrol five-door wagon)

ENGINE:
Capacity: 1.591 litres
Configuration: Four cylinders in line
Maximum Power: 146 kW @ 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 265 Nm @ 1600 rpm
Fuel Type: 91RON petrol
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 6.9 L/100km
CO2 Emissions: 156 g/km

DRIVELINE: Seven-speed dual clutch automatic

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 4215 mm
Wheelbase: 2600 mm
Width: 1800 mm
Height: 1560 mm
Turning Circle: 10.6 metres
Kerb Mass: 1395 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: 50 litres

BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Solid disc

STANDARD WARRANTY:
Five years / unlimited kilometres

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2025 Nissan Patrol Unveiled: Nissan’s LandCruiser Rival Breaks Cover

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2025 Nissan Patrol Unveiled: Nissan’s LandCruiser Rival Breaks Cover

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The highly anticipated 2025 Nissan Patrol has been revealed, marking a major shift towards premium design and technology as it sets its sights on challenging the iconic Toyota LandCruiser. With new twin-turbo V6 engines, cutting-edge tech, and a more luxurious interior, the latest Patrol signals Nissan’s ambition to elevate its offering in the competitive SUV market.

Nissan officially introduced the new Patrol during a press event in Abu Dhabi, unveiling a model that promises enhanced performance, off-road capability, and modern features. Key highlights of the 2025 Patrol include the introduction of two V6 engine options—one naturally aspirated and one twin-turbocharged—replacing the outgoing V8, as well as advanced technology aimed at both driving and passenger comfort.

Engine and Performance

The new Patrol is offered with a choice of engines, but Australia will specifically receive the powerful 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6. This engine delivers 317kW of power and 700Nm of torque, paired with a nine-speed Jatco automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive. A naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6, producing 236kW and 386Nm, will be available in other markets but is unlikely to come to Australia.

Although the Patrol’s mass has increased, Nissan has confirmed that the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) will remain at 3500kg. This will likely result in a reduced payload, though the braked towing capacity for the Australian market is expected to stay at 3500kg, aligning with the US version of the vehicle.

Technological Innovations and Luxury Features

Inside the cabin, Nissan has introduced a host of luxury features designed to elevate the Patrol’s appeal to the premium SUV segment. Notable additions include pneumatic massage seats, dual 14.3-inch displays (combining for a seamless 28.6-inch dashboard), and a head-up display. The new infotainment system is integrated with Google services, offering Google Maps and cloud-based voice recognition via Google Assistant.

A standout feature is the segment-first biometric climate control system, which uses infrared sensors to monitor the skin temperature of passengers across all three rows, adjusting the air conditioning intensity to ensure optimal comfort. This feature is particularly useful in hot climates like the Middle East and Australia.

Off-Road Capability and Safety Features

Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the 2025 Patrol is built to handle tough terrain, with improved approach and departure angles and air suspension that can raise the vehicle by 70mm for off-road driving. The vehicle also comes with a suite of off-road driving modes, including Rock, Sand, Mud, Eco, and Sport, as well as a rear differential lock and switchable 4H and 4L modes.

In terms of safety, the Patrol now includes a range of advanced driver assistance systems. Front and rear cross-traffic alerts, along with a front-mounted 170-degree camera, improve visibility at intersections. The vehicle also features a semi-autonomous lane-centering function, similar to the system found on the 300 Series LandCruiser.

Design and Dimensions

The new Patrol sits on an all-new platform, offering a 35mm increase in both length and width, while retaining the same 3075mm wheelbase as the previous model. With a total length of 5205mm and width of 2030mm, the 2025 Patrol delivers a more commanding presence on the road.

Nissan has also expanded the colour palette for the 2025 model, offering seven finishes including a new hero colour, Forest Green, alongside Pearl White, Mineral Black, Grey, Grand Blue, and Silver metallic options.

Availability and Market Outlook

Australia will be the first right-hand drive market for the 2025 Patrol, with orders set to open in late 2026 for delivery in 2027. Until then, the current Y62 Patrol will continue to be available for purchase, giving buyers the option to stick with the outgoing model before the Y63 arrives.

With a more luxurious interior, improved off-road capabilities, and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 Nissan Patrol is poised to give the LandCruiser a run for its money in the premium large SUV market.

 

For more motoring news, click here.

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2025 Jeep Avenger Electric: A Bold New Direction for the Brand

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2025 Jeep Avenger Electric: A Bold New Direction for the Brand

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Jeep Avenger Electric marks a significant turning point for the iconic off-road brand as it steps confidently into the electric future. Designed as Jeep’s first fully-electric compact SUV, the Avenger is crafted to deliver a perfect balance of urban practicality, rugged capability, and environmental responsibility, staying true to Jeep’s DNA while embracing the era of electrification.

Design and Build

The exterior design of the Jeep Avenger is modern and sleek, yet unmistakably Jeep. It maintains the brand’s signature seven-slot grille, albeit closed off to reflect its electric nature, and has short overhangs, high ground clearance, and robust wheel arches. Its compact size makes it ideal for city driving, but Jeep enthusiasts will appreciate its off-road-ready stance. The Avenger’s dimensions are well-suited for urban manoeuvrability, while still being tough enough for light off-road adventures.

Performance and Capability

Under the hood, the 2025 Avenger Electric features a 54kWh battery, delivering a range of up to 400 kilometres on a single charge. Jeep has engineered the Avenger to offer both efficiency and capability, making it a versatile choice for those who need a vehicle for daily commutes and weekend getaways. With 150 horsepower and immediate torque delivery, the electric motor provides a responsive driving experience, ensuring smooth acceleration both on and off the road.

While the Avenger isn’t positioned as a hardcore off-roader like the Wrangler, it is equipped with Selec-Terrain modes, including settings for snow, mud, and sand, as well as hill descent control, making it more than capable for tackling rough terrains. Front-wheel drive is standard, but Jeep’s heritage of off-road prowess means the Avenger retains enough ruggedness for outdoor enthusiasts.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Avenger offers a high-tech, premium cabin with plenty of Jeep’s signature rugged charm. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment system are modern and intuitive, featuring a large 10.25-inch touchscreen running Jeep’s latest Uconnect 5 software. The infotainment includes seamless integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services that enable over-the-air updates.

Jeep has also ensured that the interior is versatile, with a spacious layout and clever storage solutions throughout the cabin. Advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking, add a layer of safety to the driving experience.

Verdict

The 2025 Jeep Avenger Electric is a compelling entry into the electric SUV market, combining Jeep’s renowned rugged appeal with modern-day practicality and sustainability. While it may not be the brand’s most capable off-roader, it is the ideal choice for drivers who want a compact, eco-friendly SUV with a touch of adventure.

 

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Toyota Unveils the Ultimate SUV: GRMN Century Set to Hit the Market

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Toyota Unveils the Ultimate SUV: GRMN Century Set to Hit the Market

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Toyota has confirmed plans to release a mass-market version of its exclusive GRMN Century SUV, previously only available to Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda. This upcoming model is poised to become the crown jewel of Toyota’s SUV lineup, surpassing even the revered LandCruiser and Prado in prestige and performance.

The GRMN Century, which currently exists as a single sedan model driven by Toyoda himself, will soon see a production version of the SUV variant for global markets. Toyoda announced this during a recent visit to China, where he introduced the Century SUV to the local market. When asked about the potential for a GRMN-branded version, Toyoda revealed his intentions: “The Century I own is the only GRMN there is for now. Next, I want to make a GRMN that many people from around the world can ride.”

However, enthusiasts will need to be patient, as Toyoda indicated that the production model is still some time away from being ready for markets like China and Japan.

Century: The Pinnacle of Toyota’s SUV Lineup

The Century SUV, already a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, is built on the TNGA-K architecture, shared with models like the Camry, RAV4, and Kluger. This is a departure from the Century sedan, which is built on the Toyota N Platform, also used by the Lexus IS and RC. The SUV version currently houses a plug-in hybrid 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine, delivering 303kW, while the sedan features a hybrid 5.0-litre petrol V8 engine with 317kW.

Details about the GRMN Century SUV’s enhancements remain under wraps, but Toyoda’s personal model, showcased at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, hints at what might be expected. This unique version includes an aggressive body kit, carbon-fibre exterior accents, 22-inch wheels, and sliding rear doors, signalling a blend of luxury and performance.

A Luxury SUV Like No Other

While the Century sedan and SUV share a prestigious nameplate, they differ significantly in design and underpinnings, making the GRMN Century SUV a distinct and highly anticipated addition to Toyota’s lineup. Unfortunately for Australian fans, the Century – in both its sedan and SUV forms – is not currently available in Australia, where the Camry and LandCruiser 300 Series continue to dominate the passenger car and SUV markets.

As the world awaits the official release of the GRMN Century SUV, Toyota’s commitment to expanding its luxury and high-performance offerings is clear. The GRMN Century is set to redefine the boundaries of what a Toyota SUV can be, combining the brand’s legendary reliability with cutting-edge luxury and performance features.

 

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