Every important car news story breaking today, one convenient read
Thanks for joining us this Friday, March 14th 2025. Notably in car news today: Mercedes-Benz CLA announced, Ferrari F80 premiers at Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, and BMW crowned best selling luxury brand in Australia.
Mercedes-Benz has announced details regarding their new CLA with a wide range of changes including shifting to all-electric and hybrid options, as well as switching the drivetrain from front- to rear- or all-wheel-drive.
The electric version boasts nearly 800km of range (792km) on the typically more accurate WLTP cycle for the CLA 250+; a CLA 350 4Matic also offers all-wheel-drive with slightly less range at up to 771km.
While the price and positioning of the updated CLA are currently unclear, it puts rivals such as the Tesla Model 3 Long Range on notice, despite recent updates that boosted range to 629km.
The updated model is due to arrive in Australia early next year.
Ferrari F80 premiers at Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix
Attendees of the 2025 Formula 1 opening race were shown Maranello’s latest creation , with Ferrari showcasing their F80 supercar at the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit.
The event was hosted by Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, with over 400 punters in attendance to take their first look at what Ferrari says is their most powerful road car ever.
“It’s crazy. It’s such an incredible car. I love the look of it, and when you drive it, it feels so light. And that’s really what strikes me. I really, really enjoyed it,” said Charles Leclerc.
Specs wise, the vehicle will move from 0-100km/hr in a claimed 2.15 seconds, Ferrari also says the F80 will achieve 0-200km/hr in 5.75 seconds, with a V6 hybrid powertrain producing 1200hp.
BMW Australia’s best selling luxury automotive brand for second year running
For the second year in a row, BMW is the best selling premium automotive brand in Australia.
To celebrate the occasion, 49 BMW dealers from around Australia attended a Sydney based awards evening.
Awards were handed out for various category winners, with the top spot of BMW dealer of the year Major Metro, going to South Yarra BMW.
“Our independently owned dealers have once again demonstrated their commitment to excellence, playing a pivotal role in BMW maintaining its leadership position. Their efforts, particularly in driving electric vehicle adoption, reinforce our shared vision for sustainable mobility,” said BMW CEO Wolfgang Buechel.
Chevrolet Silverado pricing and specs updated for 2025
For 2025, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD has received new styling and design updates, as well as new pricing. Spoiler alert, it’s not cheaper than last year.
Updates appear to be mainly visual, with no engine or driveline updates. The 2500 HD boasts a 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel motor that pushes out 350kW and 1322Nm, so we can let that slide…
These updates include a new look interior, blacked out front-and-rear bumpers, recovery hooks and 20-inch black alloy wheels.
Pricing has increased compared to 2024 numbers, with the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD now starting at $166,500 before on-road costs. The smaller Silverado 1500 ZR2 and LTZ Premium Tech Pack are being priced at $141, 500 and $130,500 respectively.
The next issue of Car News Today will be published on Monday 17th March at 4.30pm Sydney time.
