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Motoring News

2023 HYUNDAI PALISADE HIGHLANDER

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2023 HYUNDAI PALISADE HIGHLANDER

By EWAN KENNEDY

 There’s nothing subtle about the styling of the Hyundai Palisade large SUV / people mover.

Hyundai Palisade is a large Korean-built SUV, or people mover to use the older definition for a vehicle in this class. It has received major upgrades as well as substantial styling changes for the 2023 model year, so it’s worth us taking a look at it again with a full road test.

A major feature in the Palisade is the Hyundai Bluelink system that can be connected to the from anywhere via a smartphone. Owners can send planned routes and receive emergency assistance automatically after an accident.

They can even remotely lock or start their car with their preferred climate settings, therefore have their Palisade sitting waiting for them all warmed up and ready to go.

STYLING

Palisade is a large vehicle with styling that is in the look-at-me class – nothing subtle here. Styling changes for 2023 include a parametric shield grille design flanked by vertically stacked LED headlights.

The Highlander variant we reviewed has exclusive design touches, including a satin chrome finish to the grille with matching logo badge and skid plate finishes. There are hidden-type turn signals, body-coloured cladding and exclusive 20-inch wheels with a 15-spoke turbine design.

INTERIOR

Hyundai Palisade can be optioned with either a seven-seat or eight-seat layout, the former offering two individual captain-type chairs in the middle row. This was our test vehicle and it has a real feeling of luxury of the type normally only offered in a limousine.

Additional luxuries for Highlander variants include heated and ventilated front and second-row seats now for both seven- and eight-seat variants.

Highlander also gains exclusive interior finishes, quilted seat inserts, quilted and perforated door trim inserts, suede headlining and stainless-steel front speaker grilles, and door/cargo area scuff plates.

Every Highlander variant is available with Black Nappa leather with luxury quilting and Gloss Black/Pinstripe trim, with the further options of Warm Grey and Dark Khaki Nappa leather with unique wood-look trim dependent on the exterior colour.

INFOTAINMENT

A 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system is now standard on all Palisade models. Features include wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; six USB-C and one USB-A ports;

Bluetooth message playback; embedded satellite navigation with live traffic updates; wireless smartphone charging; and a voice memo function with up to 70 minutes recording time;

There’s also AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio although the latter cuts out when driving through cuttings or when there’s multiple trees in the centre island or simply in country driving.

The 12-speaker Infinity audio system in our Palisade produced excellent sound quality and could be adjusted to suit our needs.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The recently revised Hyundai Palisade is offered with a choice of a 3.8-litre petrol V6 with front-wheel drive, or a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel with four-wheel drive. Both have a recently updated eight-speed automatic transmission. Ours test vehicle was the turbo-diesel.

SAFETY

Hyundai Palisade has lap-sash safety belts for all occupants. This isn’t as common as it should be because too many competitors have a lap-only belt in the centre-rear spot.

An expanded suite of SmartSense driver assistance and advanced active safety features is used in the 2023 Palisade. It now incorporates forward collision-avoidance assist with junction turning function, intelligent speed limit assist, a multi anti-collision braking system.

There’s a surround view monitor, a reverse light guide function as well as reverse parking collision-avoidance assist. The latter a real bonus when you’re reversing a large people mover out of a tight spot in a shopping centre. It was also handy in the underground carpark in our apartment block where roof pillars and other vehicles are pretty close.

With Bluelink, the 2023 Palisade has automatic collision notification and SOS emergency call function.

There’s a natural language server-based voice control and server-based connected routing navigation.

DRIVING

Getting into the front and two middle-row seats is easy. As you would expect the rearmost seats are a bit of squeeze to get in and out. But as that’s the area normally used by the littlies in your family there’s little hassle. And the juniors are more than happy to be as far from mum and dad as possible…

Yet again I had problems seeing the information that’s displayed on the windscreen. My polarising sunglasses could not see it unless I tilted my head slightly to one side or the other. Obviously, I could look at the instruments in their normal position, but that’s a little less safe than having a view of the forward traffic and the dials at the same time.

Other car brands have solved this problem so it’s time Hyundai did.

Palisade is impressive in the way that it drives, all the more so when you remember this is a five-metre-long vehicle where its main aim in life is to carry up to eight people. It’s certainly not sporty but you do feel that it wants to follow your directions through the steering wheel and throttle pedal.

There’s some bump-thump over the joints on the road but we have felt worse. And some road roar on concrete surfaces, but on bitumen it’s nice and refined.

Fuel consumption was in the nine to 11 litres per hundred kilometres around town in the suburbs and on hilly and winding roads. This dropped dramatically to just five to seven litres during easy paced driving on level roads and on 110 km/h motorways.

SUMMING UP

Hyundai Palisade is a reasonably priced, high-quality people mover that’s does everything it’s intended to do with plenty of aplomb. It’s significantly cheaper than upmarket European vehicles in the same class and certainly deserves a place on your short list of models to consider.

RATINGS:

Looks: 9/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 9/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 9/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

Palisade Elite 3.8-litre petrol 2WD: $65,900

Palisade Highlander 3.8-litre petrol 2WD: $75,900

Palisade Elite 2.2-litre diesel AWD: $69,900

Palisade Highlander 2.2-litre diesel AWD: $79,900

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Hyundai dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Hyundai Palisade Highlander 2.2-litre diesel AWD)

ENGINE:

Capacity: 2.199 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders in line

Maximum Power: 147 kW @ 3800 rpm

Maximum Torque: 440 Nm @ 1750 rpm

Fuel Type: Diesel

Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.3 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 193 g/km

DRIVELINE: Eight-speed automatic

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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.

 

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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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