Coming Up 2022

Like opening a Christmas present, finding out what cars are coming to us over the next year (2022) is an exciting prospect.  Here’s just a few vehicles that pricked my ears up the most:

Genesis G80 Electric

This is Genesis’ first-ever electric vehicle, and it’s coming to Australia early 2022.  Making use of solar panels that are integrated into the roof, using recycled timber and plastic materials for its interior, the Genesis G80 Electric is a very special flagship.  Ride comfort will be nothing short of amazing, utilising a ‘Pre-view’ adaptive suspension system that feeds data from cameras at the front of the car as well as from the navigation system to pre-empt road surfaces and adjust the suspension’s ride response as necessary.  Four interior sensors and six-microphones are present in the cabin to counteract intrusive audio frequencies – serenity exemplified!

It will be dynamic to drive, light on its feet and comfortable.  The twin-motor electric powertrain delivers 272 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque through an all-wheel drive system, enabling the G80 EV to blister the 0-100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

The car will seamlessly switch between 2WD and AWD according to demands and conditions, thus reducing unnecessary power loss and increasing efficiency.  Genesis is claiming a 500 km-plus cruising range for the luxury EV flagship on a full battery charge.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The good-looking new Jeep Grand Cherokee will provide five and seven-seat variants. It will be powered exclusively by the familiar 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 petrol engine.  The V8 option won’t launch in Oz – a pity, maybe in the future.

The new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee looks impressive with a range that comprises: Night Eagle, Limited, Overland, Summit and Summit Reserve trims, all of which will be available, primarily, as seven-seaters.  The Summit and Summit Reserve models will be able to be optioned with six seats rather than seven, allowing two free-standing captain’s seats that is separated by an elevated centre console.  The Night Eagle runs with a five-seater arrangement and, obviously a massive boot space.

The three higher grades also get a Quadra-Lift air suspension that can raise to 262 mm.

Mazda6

A very exciting new Mazda6 comes with a BMW-rivalling straight-six engine and rear-wheel-drive layout.  This will be Mazda’s flagship passenger car, and available in both SKYACTIV-X petrol and diesel forms.  Mazda’s new inline-six engine and eight-speed automatic transmission will be a peach, offering 48-volt mild-hybrid technology that increases power and efficiency by combining a belt-driven starter-generator and a small lithium-ion battery that’s recharged using any recovered energy.  The new mild-hybrid inline-six will produce around 260 kW.

The 2022 Mazda6 should win plenty of design awards thanks to its gorgeous, flowing lines and low-profile stance.  The Lexus IS, Genesis G70, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class will be firmly in its sight.

MG5

All-new and Thai-built, the MG5 is the next step in MG’s excellent plan.  There should be an MPV and a ute offered later as well.  Size-wise it’s similar to a Toyota Corolla, and price-wise should undercut Corolla and Kia Cerato rivals.

The MG5 will come with two body styles and be powered by an internal-combustion engine as well as an electrified powertrain.  First to arrive will be the petrol-powered liftback sedan, and there won’t be a station wagon option.

The MG5 builds onto the already widely popular MG ES SUV models.

Nissan Pathfinder

A brand new Nissan Pathfinder is coming that will offer an eight-seat option, as well as a model that comes with second-row captain’s chairs configuration.  Eight seats is something that even the top-selling Toyota Kluger cannot provide, nor the fine Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and new Jeep Grand Cherokee.  This, therefore, sets it up nicely with the Mazda CX-9’s second-row captain’s chair variant.  Comfort is at the essence of what is a handy off-road/come tourer, and the Pathfinder will impress with space and refinement.

It will be loaded with goodies: an all-new infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging and connectivity, a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, a digital Intelligent Around View Monitor, a 9.0-inch infotainment touch-screen, a 10.8-inch digital head-up display, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

The 3.5-litre petrol V6 with 210 kW and 350 Nm matches to an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission for smooth, relaxed perogress.  The all-new Intelligent 4WD system with seven-position Drive and Terrain Mode Selector gives it an off-road edge, while drive modes will include Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud/Rut and Tow.

Its fresh exterior design with a three-slot V-motion grille, C-shaped LED headlights, a ‘floating’ roofline and slimmer LED tail-lights all looks eye-catching and spacious. A total of 11 paint colour combinations will be offered.

Subaru WRX

Finally, the new Subaru WRX is coming!

The fifth-generation Japanese sports sedan’s boasts a 2.4-litre turbo-petrol boxer engine with 202 kW, and 350 Nm of torque comes spread out over a flatter and wider torque curve.  This will be joined by the higher-output STI version in late 2022/early 2023. A six-speed manual transmission and an improved eight-speed CVT auto with transmission oil cooler and paddle shifters lead the charge.

The new WRX rides on the same Subaru Global Platform that underpins the latest Impreza, helping to congeal a solid handling package with an improved ride and nicer refinement.

The chassis is more rigid, and Subaru provides the WRX with dual-pinion electric power steering, MacPherson front and double-wishbone rear suspension with revised suspension geometry, a lower centre of gravity and electronically adaptive dampers for GT versions, making for a sweet driver’s car with significantly improved handling dynamics.

I Like Them Big, I Like them Chunky!

Cars with the biggest boot space are always going to be the preferred vehicles for families.  Unless, of course, you’re a travelling salesman, builder, youth worker or schoolteacher, then the extra few cubes in the back are going to come in handy. What’s current out there that will prove a capable companion for taking three people (or more) in the back seats and a big load of luggage?

Tesla Model S (849 litres)

It might be surprising to see this addition on the list, but I’ll start with this one first because its topical.  Tesla’s lack of a conventional combustion engine and exhaust system works wonders for creating whopping luggage space! The electric motor in the Tesla Model S is very compact, providing the Model S with extra space to store luggage.  This Tesla has two large boot spaces where you’ll find one at the front and one at the rear.  A total of 849 litres of storage space is exceptionally fine for what is a performance EV sedan that can manage 0-100 km/h in around 3 seconds! However, buying new will set you back well north of $135k.

But now, to vehicles more conventional, and some with a buy new price that’s a whole lot cheaper than a Tesla Model S.

Peugeot 5008 (780 litres)

The snazzy new Peugeot is called the 5008, a family car that is anything but boring.  Two large infotainment screens, comfortable seats, seven-seating capacity or five, and you’ll be appreciating the talent offered by this roomy SUV.  Opt for five-seats up, and you’re left with a 780-litre boot.

Kia Sorento (660 litres)

The Kia Sorento is a class act.  It’s comfortable to drive and is also a handy tow vehicle, thanks to its punchy diesel engine and standard 4WD set-up.  Like the Peugeot above, the Sorento is eye-catching and good looking, and it also has seven seat capacity.  Drop the third row flat, and the Sorento boasts a decent 660-litre boot space that just loves to swallow suitcases and bags.

Skoda Superb Estate (660 litres)

One of my favourite vehicles on this list, the Skoda Superb Estate, has it all.  Not only is it not as bulky as an SUV, but the seats are superbly comfortable and spacious.  There is loads of practical interior space throughout the cabin.  Yes, it seats five adults in comfort and is one of the best cars with a big boot.  The big Skoda station wagon looks great and has a stylish cabin, with easy-to-use infotainment and acres of rear-seat legroom.  It’s also available with a strong range of grunty engines.

Skoda Karoq (588 litres)

Hello! Another Skoda?  The Karoq is Skoda’s mid-size crossover SUV.  It’s comfortable to drive with an excellent range of engines to choose from.  A high level of standard equipment, a nicely finished cabin and practicality is packed inside a Karoq.  Boasting VarioFlex Seats, three individual chairs that can slide, recline and be taken out entirely totally transforms the car and expands the boot space to suit.  The Karoq’s interior flexibility is unrivalled in this class of car, and you can also have it with 4WD.  The Skoda Kamiq is even bigger!

Volvo V60 (529 litres)

One of the suavest-looking station wagons in the list is the Volvo V60.  Its 529-litre boot space is the biggest you’ll find when pitched against its German rivals: the BMW 3 Series Touring, the Audi A4 Avant and the Mercedes C-Class Estate.  A beautiful modern Volvo interior with its metal, leather and wood trims, its portrait-style infotainment screen, outstanding comfort, and plenty of room for passengers deliver a fantastic package.  You also get a range of engines, which includes two powerful petrol hybrids that are quick.  If you’re looking for station wagon style along with boot capacity, then the Volvo is a winner here.

Mercedes E-Class Estate (640 litres)

With a little more room about its cabin than in the Volvo V60, the Mercedes E-Class Estate also boasts a few more cubes in its boot space.  Awesome infotainment and a range of new hybrid engines give this a drive to remember.  If you want a classy load-carrier that isn’t an SUV, then the E-Class has you covered.

Volkswagen Tiguan (615 litres)

The Tiguan’s boot offers 615 litres of luggage space when its rear seats have been slid right to the front.  This makes it a top rival to the other similar sized-and-priced Honda CR-V.  To look at, the Tiguan probably won’t win many beauty pageants, however it is a comfortable and practical choice with low running costs.

Honda CR-V (522 litres, 5-seater version)

Not the biggest boot on show here, but it boasts a practical shape and, with its comfortable cabin, the Honda CR-V is a nice small family alternative.  The engines are economical and very reliable, there are up to 7 seats, and it would be hard to find a better value large family car.  The seven-seater version hinders boot space somewhat, which drops to 497 litres with the seats up.  The CR-V packs a punch when it comes to standard safety kit.  Standard safety equipment includes lane assist, autonomous emergency braking and Isofix child seat mounting points.

SsangYong Rexton (820 litres)

Yes, there are plenty of other SUVs that have colossal boot space.  Big SUVs that include the Skoda Kodiaq (another Skoda), the BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery, Volvo XC90, BMW X7, Audi Q7, Hyundai Palasade, Land Rover Discovery, Toyota Land Cruiser, the Range Rover and even Nissan’s whopping Patrol.  If you can afford one of these, then all is well.  However, if you’re hoping for a big seven-seater SUV option, then there is the excellent SsangYong Rexton with its loads of space, excellent comfort and decent price tag that’s easily half the price of the afore mentioned alternatives.

Yes, the SsangYong Rexton is a rugged, tough and durable machine, but this big SUV is perfect for carrying large loads along with people in spacious comfort.  The Rexton boasts an impressive 820 litres of boot space with all the seats in place, and then a cavernous 1806 litres with all five rear seats lying flat.  4WD capacity makes this an adventurer, and its smooth, powerful 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine can tow up to 3500 kg without even breaking a sweat.

Citroen C5 Aircross (720 litres)

The Citroen C5 Aircross has one of the most comfortable rides. It also gets a line-up of quiet, refined engines to go with its massive boot.  With the rear seats slid forward, there’s room for 720 litres of luggage in the boot, which then drops to 580 litres when the seats are in their rearmost position.  A very deep, square shape enables the boot to easily swallow bulky items, and the electric tailgate is a nice standard feature.  In terms of practicality, the C5 Aircross represents decent value for money with loads of comfort and practicality.

Citroen Berlingo Multispace (775 litres)

Staying on the with the Citroen theme, how about a new Citroen Berlingo Multispace?  Yes, it’s a bit different and an MPV type vehicle, but the French know all about space, comfort and practicality. Even the standard-sized Citroen Berlingo Multispace versions offer 775 litres of boot space with the rear seats up, but the seven-seat XL versions offer even more with 1050 litres of space, albeit with the third row of seats folded flat.

Mercedes V-Class (1030 litres)

Alright, I have indulged in one proper van, the Mercedes V-Class, also among the largest MPVs you can possibly buy.  I suppose there are any myriad of other passenger vans (e.g., Hyundai Staria, Ford Transit, Toyota Granvia) you could buy, but I’ve selected one of the best: the new Mercedes Vito van or V-Class, and with this vehicle you really are travelling in luxury and style. The V-Class can seat up to 8 passengers, but if you remove the third row of seats you’re left with a truly colossal 1,030-litre load area.

Above is a shortlist, really.  I haven’t mentioned other worthy contenders that could just as easily be added.  Vehicles like the Subaru Outback, BMW’s 5-series Wagon, the Honda Odyssey, the Mazda 6 Wagon, the Renault Koleos, or any of the dual cab utes are also pretty-adept at managing loads and people.

So, do you know a car that should be on this list – a vehicle that I’ve blatantly missed?  We need to know about it because there are people who are after such a vehicle – one that’ll shift loads of luggage and people.  Whether you prefer a crossover, an SUV, or a station wagon, now’s the time to let us know the best modern vehicles with big boots.

I need a bigger boot!

Australia’s Most-Loved Utes Will be Going Hybrid

Earlier this year, Toyota set the benchmark when it announced that its much-loved dual-cab ute, the HiLux would be produced in hybrid format by the end of this decade. Although a long way off, it certainly set the scene for plenty to get excited about, with electrification here and here in a big way, and only set to gain more traction as time goes on.

We’re actually somewhat optimistic that Toyota will be able to fast-track the development of a hybrid HiLux given the tailwinds in effect pushing manufacturers to accelerate the transition to more environmentally-friendly cars. So while Toyota has flagged until the end of the decade for a hybrid HiLux, that may well be the case for the company’s entire model range, rather than it’s best-seller.

Toyota has been on record as saying it believes hybrids will be one of the dominant forms of vehicle over the short-term, while also representing a major chunk of the new car market down the track.

Ford joins the party with the Ranger

Australia’s other favourite ute, the Ford Ranger, is also set for an electrified future.

The blue oval brand has confirmed it will develop a hybrid Ranger, alongside a hybrid Everest four-wheel drive, with the jointly-developed pair set to be engineered locally in Australia and assembled out of Thailand.

Pleasingly, Ford is on a fast track to production, aiming to have the duo rolled out overseas by 2024, targeting countries where emissions targets are driving the push to green vehicles. Although that date does not extend to Australia at this stage, there is likely to be pressure over the coming years, particularly on a political front, that will hasten the need for more hybrid and electrified vehicles down under.

This development could very well play into the cards of a hybrid Ranger arriving much sooner than the timeline provided by Toyota. If that looks likely, watch out, because Toyota may well throw down the gauntlet to compete with its arch-nemesis on the hybrid battlefield.

It is looking increasingly as though a hybrid Ranger will be offered in petrol-electric format, with countries across Europe and North America now seemingly putting the brakes on diesel emissions.

What’s even more interesting, however, is that the 2022 version of the Ranger has been ‘future’proofed’ to accommodate hybrid power down the track, raising eyebrows about an even earlier arrival. Ford has achieved this thanks to a redesign of the Ranger’s chassis, optimising space under the hood.

What does it all mean? The timelines might be quite distant, but we think there could very well be a surprise to the upside in terms of the hybrid development of Australia’s two best-selling cars.

Another Manufacturer Bites the Dust

Australia has seen a few high-profile names depart from the local car market over recent years, and sadly, another name has joined the fold. After a long and admired time down under, Chrysler has followed the lead of Holden, pulling up stumps. It comes as the brand’s US parent company makes a decisive move to exit right-hand-drive production.

Chrysler’s time in Australia

The company first began producing vehicles in Australia back in 1951, which seems like an eternity ago in this day and age. At one stage, in the 1970s, buoyed by the popularity of the Valiant, Chrysler managed to rise to third on the charts among local manufacturers, producing upwards of 50,000 vehicles a year, and only trailing the two mainstays in Holden and Ford at the time.

Although the brand has seen sales dwindling for some time now, Chrysler was one of the few V8 sedan options sold in Australia over recent years. When Ford and Holden both put an end to their V8 plans, Chrysler was the sole remaining affordable V8 on the market. That means the final of its two-dozen Chrysler 300 sedans will not be replaced, and are the last options for new car buyers eyeing a new and affordable V8 in Australia.

Some observers may be wondering if the Chrysler 300 was even for sale after being withdrawn from Australian showrooms at the start of this year. However, new car buyers have been able to buy the car on special order, even though supply constraints have hampered the process – a force felt by a number of other dealers as well.

What does the decision mean looking forward?

While Chrysler hinted the decision may be short-term, as it moves to ramp up its capacity and capabilities to develop electric vehicles, it is highly unlikely there would be a resurgence for right-hand drive vehicles across the company. After all, its home market has long been the US.

In the meantime, other brands tied to Chrysler’s parent company remain unaffected. The likes of Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Jeep have not announced any plans to wind-back production of right-hand drive vehicles. Whether that decision stands the test of time remains to be seen, but the likes of Fiat would certainly be vulnerable given low-volume sales across the nation.

For existing owners, fortunately Chrysler will continue to support repairs and service into the foreseeable future. And with that, Chrysler sadly goes out with a whimper, managing less than 2000 sales across the last five years in Australia. Nonetheless, the brand will be an icon to remember for many who bought their first car some 50 years ago.