Sony and Honda’s Electric Car Unveiled: Afeela 1 Promises High-Tech Luxury, But at a Price

By Jeff Gibbs

Sony and Honda have revealed the near-production version of their first electric car under the joint-venture brand Afeela, showcasing a luxury sedan aimed at the premium market. The vehicle, unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, is set to debut in the US in mid-2026, with plans to expand to Japan later that year. Australian availability remains uncertain.

A Tech-Powered Luxury Sedan

The Afeela 1 sedan combines Honda’s car manufacturing expertise with Sony’s cutting-edge technology. Measuring 4915mm long, 1900mm wide, and 1461mm tall, it closely rivals the Tesla Model S in size and is larger than the Model 3.

Equipped with dual motors producing a combined 360kW, the car boasts 483km of estimated driving range from a 91kWh battery pack. Charging supports 150kW DC fast charging and 11kW AC, compatible with Tesla Superchargers in North America.

The Signature variant, priced at $US102,900 ($AU165,000), offers features like 21-inch alloy wheels, rear entertainment screens, a bespoke sound system, and an array of tech enhancements. An entry-level Origin model, launching in 2027, starts at $US89,900 ($AU141,000).

High-Tech Interior

Inside, dual screens span the dashboard for driving and entertainment, complemented by a voice assistant and graphics powered by Unreal Engine, widely used in video games. Infotainment includes apps like Spotify, TikTok, and Zoom, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility remain unconfirmed.

The interior prioritises sustainability, using recycled and plant-derived materials for 70% of surfaces. It offers conveniences like wireless charging, USB-C and HDMI ports, and household power outlets. A ‘media bar’ on the exterior shares information with other road users.

Performance and Safety

Powered by dual 180kW motors for all-wheel drive, the car features air suspension linked to a 3D Motion Management System, integrating motor, brake, and suspension controls for optimal comfort and handling.

Safety tech includes 800 TOPS of computing power managing 18 cameras, nine radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and lidar for adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist.

Market Position and Competition

Priced higher than competitors like the Tesla Model S Plaid ($US94,990) and BMW i5 M60 ($US84,100), the Afeela 1 targets luxury buyers seeking advanced tech and premium design.

Pre-orders are now open for California residents, with deliveries expected to begin in mid-2026. While its pricing and market position place it among elite electric vehicles, the Afeela 1 showcases a blend of Japanese innovation and engineering, offering a glimpse into the future of high-tech mobility.

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KGM SsangYong Electric Ute and 2025 Actyon SUV Confirmed for Australia

By Jeff Gibbs

South Korea’s KGM SsangYong is set to make waves in Australia with the anticipated launch of its first electric ‘lifestyle’ ute, likely to debut after the UK release in 2025. This innovative ute, based on the Torres EVX SUV, is expected to offer a practical, urban-friendly alternative to traditional ladder-frame utes like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

KGM SsangYong Electric Ute Highlights

• Inspired by the O100 Concept: Unveiled in April 2023, the electric dual-cab ute could be named Torres EVT, as suggested by badging on the concept model.
• Urban-Focused Design: The ute will cater to drivers seeking a versatile, medium-sized vehicle ideal for city use.
• All-Electric Platform: Unlike the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Torres EVT will be electric-only, leveraging the Torres EVX SUV’s architecture.
• BYD-Sourced Battery: Equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the ute promises a 462km driving range (WLTP).
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Capability: Owners can power tools or appliances directly from the vehicle, adding practicality for work or leisure.

Torres EVX SUV: On Track for 2025

The Torres EVX SUV, upon which the ute is based, will launch in Australia in the first half of 2025. Featuring:

• A 73.4kWh battery with a front-mounted 152kW/339Nm motor
• A focus on efficiency and versatility for mid-size SUV buyers
• Potential dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations under consideration

2025 Actyon SUV

2025 Actyon SUV: A Familiar Name Returns

KGM SsangYong is also reviving the Actyon nameplate, with the new coupe-styled SUV slated for Australian showrooms in early 2025. Highlights include:

• 1.5-litre turbocharged engine (120kW/280Nm) paired with a six-speed automatic
• Front- or all-wheel drive options
• A sleek, modern design derived from the petrol-powered Torres

Market Context

While the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz remain unavailable in Australia due to left-hand-drive production, the Torres EVT and EVX could fill the void in the growing ‘lifestyle ute’ segment. This niche caters to drivers prioritizing urban utility over heavy-duty off-road capabilities, a trend reflected in the popularity of mid-size SUVs in Australia, which represent nearly 25% of the total market.

The Future of KGM SsangYong in Australia

Rebranded as KGM SsangYong in Australia in October 2024, the company continues to leverage the legacy of the SsangYong name while introducing innovative models. While other markets have phased out the SsangYong branding, it remains in Australia to maintain brand recognition.

With a combination of cutting-edge electric vehicles like the Torres EVT and familiar nameplates like the Actyon, KGM SsangYong is poised to strengthen its foothold in the Australian market, appealing to both tech-savvy and traditional buyers alike.

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2025 Peugeot 408 Australian Test Drive Review

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Peugeot 408 brings a fresh take to the Australian crossover market, blending the aesthetics of a coupe-SUV with the practicality of a traditional SUV. As a stylish and premium offering, the 408 stands out with its distinctive design, innovative tech, and European flair. Its focus on delivering a dynamic driving experience and excellent efficiency caters to Australian buyers who appreciate sophistication with practicality.

Exterior Design

The 2025 Peugeot 408 is a head-turner with its unique blend of coupe and SUV styling:

• Striking Front Fascia: Peugeot’s signature frameless grille, sleek LED headlights, and claw-shaped daytime running lights give the 408 a bold and aggressive look.
• Coupe-SUV Silhouette: The sloping roofline and sharp lines exude athleticism without compromising rear headroom or practicality.
• Rear Styling: Eye-catching LED taillights with Peugeot’s claw motif and a sporty rear bumper enhance the car’s appeal.
• Wheel Options: Available 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels complete the sophisticated look.

The 408’s design is particularly well-suited for urban settings and stylish enough for Australia’s coastal and rural regions.

Interior Design and Comfort

Stepping inside the Peugeot 408, the cabin delivers a blend of premium materials and forward-thinking design:

• i-Cockpit Layout: The signature compact steering wheel and elevated 3D digital instrument cluster provide a futuristic and ergonomic driving experience.
• Premium Materials: High-quality finishes, soft-touch surfaces, and leather upholstery in higher trims create a luxurious environment.
• Spacious Cabin: Despite its coupe-like shape, rear passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, thanks to clever packaging.
• Cargo Space: The boot offers 536 litres of space, expandable to over 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded, making it practical for Australian road trips.

Technology

Peugeot equips the 408 with advanced tech to enhance comfort, connectivity, and safety:

• Infotainment System: A 10-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless) is standard. The user interface is responsive and easy to navigate.
• Customisable Controls: The touchscreen integrates customisable “i-Toggles,” providing shortcuts for frequently used functions.
• Sound System: A premium Focal sound system is available on higher trims for an immersive audio experience.
• Ambient Lighting: Multi-colour LED ambient lighting enhances the cabin’s premium feel.
• Driver Assistance: Advanced systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving features are included.

Performance

Australian drivers will appreciate the 408’s balance of comfort and dynamism:

• New Powertrain: The plug-in hybrid system has been replaced by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. While the combined output drops from 165kW/360Nm to 100kW/230Nm, the mild-hybrid system provides 15.6kW/51Nm of assistance and can operate on electric power alone, unlike most mild hybrids.
• Efficiency and Emissions: Peugeot claims fuel consumption of 4.7L/100km and CO2 emissions of 107g/km, enhancing efficiency.
• Transmission Update: The eight-speed automatic has been swapped for a six-speed dual-clutch automatic for smoother operation.
• Fuel Economy: Expect fuel consumption figures of around 6.5 L/100 km for petrol models and 2.0 L/100 km for the PHEV when used efficiently.
• Ride and Handling: Peugeot’s suspension setup ensures a plush ride, while its lightweight steering and compact wheel make navigating city streets effortless. On highways, the 408 feels composed and planted.

Australian-Specific Performance

The 408 performs admirably on Australia’s diverse roads:

• Urban Roads: The small steering wheel and tight turning radius make it easy to manoeuvre in crowded cityscapes.
• Highway Driving: Excellent insulation and supportive seats ensure comfort on long drives.
• Rural and Coastal Roads: The suspension absorbs bumps well, though the coupe-like stance means it’s not designed for serious off-roading.

Safety

Peugeot prioritises safety in the 408, meeting ANCAP’s five-star rating criteria:

• Standard Features:
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Blind-Spot Monitoring
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Traffic Sign Recognition
• Advanced Features:
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
  • Lane Positioning Assist
  • 360-Degree Camera
• Night Vision: Available on top trims, this system uses infrared sensors to detect pedestrians and animals in low-visibility conditions—a rare feature in its class.

Driving Experience

The 2025 Peugeot 408 shines as a daily driver and a long-distance cruiser:

• Quiet Cabin: Enhanced insulation keeps road noise at bay, creating a serene atmosphere.
• Sporty Edge: The compact steering wheel and precise handling make it more engaging than many competitors.
• Efficiency: Hybrid models stand out for their low running costs and electric-only range, perfect for reducing fuel bills.

Pricing and Trims in Australia

The Peugeot 408 is available in several trims to cater to different needs and budgets:

• Allure: Starting at around $50,000 AUD, this trim offers essential features like the i-Cockpit, wireless phone connectivity, and advanced safety.
• GT: Priced at approximately $60,000 AUD, the GT adds premium finishes, larger wheels, and additional tech features.
• PHEV: The plug-in hybrid variant starts at $65,000 AUD, combining eco-friendly performance with high-end amenities.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Distinctive, stylish design that stands out in the crossover segment.
• Premium interior with innovative technology.
• Efficient hybrid option with a good electric-only range.
• Comfortable ride and engaging handling.
• Ample cargo space despite the coupe-like roofline.

Cons:

• Limited off-road capability compared to traditional SUVs.
• Higher price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers.
• Touchscreen-reliant controls may not suit all preferences.

Conclusion

The 2025 Peugeot 408 offers Australian drivers a unique blend of style, comfort, and efficiency. Its coupe-inspired design and luxurious interior cater to those seeking sophistication, while its dynamic handling and hybrid options make it practical for everyday use. While it may not suit hardcore off-roaders, the 408 is an excellent choice for urban professionals, small families, and anyone looking for a premium European crossover with a touch of flair.

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YANKS TO RACE AT CASTROL LISMORE SPEEDWAY

By Dennis Newlyn

The Americans are coming to town in their bid to collect the $10,000 winner’s payout for the Lil’ Aussie Sprintcar Open, sponsored by O’Neill Auto Group, at Castrol Lismore Speedway, January 8.

In a short space of time this event has consolidated its place not only on the Aussie Sprintcar calendar, but also has been added to the list of annual races at the historic Lismore Showground Speedway venue over the past 55 years of uninterrupted seasons.

The Sprintcar nominations, combining both the 410 and 360 LS divisions, currently sit at 32, headed up by visiting Yanks, Texan Chase Randall and youngster Andy Pake from Minnesota.

“We have some of the heavy hitters on hand for the Lil’ Aussie Open and it promises to produce some fabulous Sprintcar racing,” co-promoter Kim Sauer said.

“Chase Randall has been here before and it will be wonderful to welcome twenty-one year old Andy Pake to our Lismore track this season. My thanks also to the O’Neill Auto Group for supporting Mick and I by sponsoring the race.”

American entrant for January 8 at Castrol Lismore Speedway, Andy Pake. Photo: Tony Powell.

Randall hauls into Lismore fresh from his 5k feature race victory competing in the Victorian SRA Series at Simpson Speedway.

Driving for DKM Motorsport, Chase has had a busy schedule leading to Lismore, having contested the Brandt Sprintcar Speedweek in southern states with five events in seven days.

Randall is obviously in top form and is potentially the driver they all have to beat.

Pake links with Tullboro Race Store Motorsport Rental Sprintcar team – an outfit that also comprises Brodie Tulloch (Q#11), Bradi Owen (Q#88) and Brent Kratzmann (Q#2).

Pake, who joined the 410 Sprintcar ranks in recent seasons, heads to Lismore after racing at Toowoomba Speedway.

There are a number of Aussie contenders who will definitely take the challenge to the Americans. Brock Hallett has had a busy interstate schedule so far this summer, while Harry Stewart also has been in sizzling form north of the border and comes into strong calculations. The line-up includes former Australian Sprintcar Champion Marcus Dumesny and the Attard duo, Alex and Jessie, both arrive in Lismore after enjoying recent success at Sydney International Speedway. Luke Oldfield, Mitch Randall (no relation to Chase), Jy Corbet, Daniel and Tony Bridge all have done more than a ton of laps on the Showghround bull ring and cannot be discounted for race honours.

The 410 and LS 360 Sprintcars will be supported with racing for Wingless Sprints, Production Sedans and Compact Speedcars.

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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Australian Review

Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe has made its Australian debut with a fresh design and significant improvements, appealing to families and adventurers alike. Hyundai’s bold move toward a more rugged, boxy design aligns well with the preferences of Australian drivers, particularly those who value versatility for urban commutes and outdoor adventures. The updated Santa Fe offers enhanced technology, improved interior space, and multiple powertrain options tailored for Australian conditions.

Key Features for Australia

• Pricing: Starting from approximately $50,000 AUD (depending on trim), the Santa Fe sits in a competitive spot within the Australian SUV market.
• Australian-Specific Tuning: Hyundai has once again employed local engineers to fine-tune the Santa Fe’s suspension, ensuring it handles Australia’s diverse road conditions seamlessly.
• Powertrain Options: Efficient hybrid options cater to eco-conscious buyers, while the ruggedness of the AWD makes it perfect for outback trails.

Exterior Design

The 2025 Santa Fe features a bold and utilitarian design that stands out on Australian roads:

• Rugged Styling: The boxier silhouette and strong lines give it a commanding presence, ideal for urban sophistication and off-road adventures.
• T-Shaped LED Lights: These sharp lights enhance visibility during Australia’s long nights and foggy mornings.
• Practical Features: Roof rails, a larger tailgate, and skid plates make it suitable for families and adventurers.
• Colour Options: Hyundai offers a range of colours, including Earthy Bronze and Midnight Blue, that resonate with Australia’s outdoor lifestyle.

Interior Design and Comfort

The Santa Fe’s cabin has been designed with Australian families in mind:

• Spacious Cabin: With its increased wheelbase, the Santa Fe offers plenty of legroom in the second and third rows, perfect for growing families or road trips.
• Premium Finishes: Depending on the trim, Australian buyers can enjoy leather upholstery, soft-touch materials, and eco-friendly fabric options.
• Climate Control: Dual-zone climate control and rear air vents are standard across all trims, a must for Australia’s varying climates.
• Infotainment System: A large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and matching digital instrument cluster ensure intuitive control and easy access to navigation and media.

Performance

The 2025 Santa Fe’s performance caters to the diverse needs of Australian drivers:

• Petrol Engine: A 2.5L turbocharged petrol engine delivers 206kW and 422Nm is ideal for highway cruising and urban driving.
• Hybrid and PHEV Options: Perfect for eco-conscious buyers, the hybrid models deliver impressive fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The plug-in hybrid offers up to 55 km of electric-only range—great for city commutes.
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): AWD variants come equipped with terrain modes (sand, snow, mud), designed to tackle Australia’s off-road challenges confidently.
• Local Tuning: Australian-specific suspension tuning ensures a balanced ride on everything from smooth highways to gravel outback roads.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency remains a highlight, particularly for the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models:

• Petrol Models: Expect around 9.5 L/100 km in mixed driving conditions.
• Hybrid Models: Impressive fuel economy, offering 5.0 L/100 km for combined city and highway driving.
• PHEV Models: Electric range reduces fuel consumption significantly for shorter trips.

Technology

The Santa Fe comes loaded with tech designed to keep Aussie drivers connected and entertained:

• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Wireless connectivity ensures seamless integration with smartphones.
• Bluelink: Hyundai’s connected car system allows remote start, climate pre-conditioning, and vehicle tracking—ideal for hot Aussie summers.
• Premium Audio: The available Harman Kardon sound system ensures crystal-clear audio for long drives.
• Heads-Up Display (HUD): A valuable addition for highway driving, projecting key information directly onto the windscreen.

Safety

The 2025 Santa Fe takes safety seriously, with a suite of standard and advanced features that align with ANCAP’s five-star rating expectations:

Standard Features:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Blind-Spot Monitoring
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Advanced Features (on higher trims):
  • Highway Driving Assist II (adaptive cruise with lane change assist)
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist
  • Surround-View Camera
• Child Safety: ISOFIX anchors and rear-seat reminders make it family-friendly.

Driving Experience

The Santa Fe is well-suited for Australian roads, offering:

• Smooth Handling: Local suspension tuning ensures a comfortable ride on highways and uneven rural roads.
• Off-Road Capability: AWD models with terrain modes handle sandy beaches and muddy trails with ease.
• Quiet Cabin: Improved insulation keeps road noise at bay, ensuring a relaxing drive.

Trims and Pricing in Australia

Hyundai offers a range of trims to cater to different needs:

• Active (Base Model): Includes key safety and tech features. Starting at approximately $50,000 AUD.
• Elite: Adds premium finishes, larger wheels, and advanced tech. Priced around $60,000 AUD.
• Highlander: The flagship trim offers luxury touches and the most advanced features. Priced from $70,000 AUD.
• Hybrid and PHEV Options: Available on Elite and Highlander trims, starting at $65,000 AUD.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stylish and rugged design suits Australian tastes.
• Spacious interior with family-friendly features.
• Efficient hybrid and PHEV options.
• Australian-specific suspension tuning.
• Strong safety features.

Cons:

• Higher trims approach luxury SUV pricing.
• Boxy design may not appeal to all buyers.
• PHEV charging infrastructure is still limited in rural areas.

Conclusion

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe redefines what a mid-size SUV can offer in Australia. Its rugged design, versatile powertrains, and focus on safety and technology make it a well-rounded option for families and adventurers. While it faces stiff competition, its blend of capability and comfort ensures it remains a standout choice for Australian buyers.