Every important car news story breaking today, one convenient read
Thanks for joining us this Wednesday January 15th 2025. Notably in car news today: renders for the Toyota Hilux have emerged showcasing the new ute and Isuzu is preparing to launch its facelifted MU-X across key markets including Australia.
Renders of the Toyota Hilux have been shared across the web following the publication of the first spy shots of the new 4×4 dual cab being tested in Thailand.
The renders published by Healight Mag (who took the initial spy shots) along with popular renderers Kolesa.ru and KDesign AG show off the key design cues of the new model.
The new-gen Hilux is expected to be an evolution of the current model rather than an all-new model like the US market midsize ute in the Tacoma, with the cab appearing to be almost entirely unchanged.
Changes are seen at the front however, with the renders showing the Hilux wearing a thinner headlight design and a squared-off honeycomb grille, while the rear taillights take inspiration from the US-market Tundra full-size ute.
Isuzu MU-X to receive facelift for 2025
Expected to land in Australian dealerships during the first quarter of 2025, is a facelifted Isuzu MU-X.
Key exterior updates include redesigned grille, different LED headlights, a new wheel (18in or 20in depending on model) and changes to the rear end. The interior is also set to receive a makeover, similar to the 2024 Isuzu D-Max.
Safety levels are set to increase also, with the inclusion of pedestrian detection at junctions, rear cross traffic braking, and a 360 degree camera. USB-C ports will also be standardised in the 2025 MU-X.
Engine options have yet to be confirmed, however it is expected the 1.9L turbo diesel will be retained, as well as the introduction of a bigger 2.2L turbo diesel variant. Could this be the end for the venerable 3.0L 4JJ3 powerplant?
BYD Seal updated and price reduced
Coming in 2025 is a revised BYD Seal, including a price reduction of up to $3578 depending on which model grade you select.
Pricing across the BYD Seal range starts from $46,990 up to $61,990. This figure does not include on-road costs.
There are three grades to select from. Starting with the Dynamic, then Premium and finally Performance. The top-spec Performance model boasts all-wheel drive, and 390kW of electric power.
Chassis tweaks have been made to 2025 models, as well as the welcome addition of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Next-generation Cupra Lean to be EV
Cupra has just gone on record to say current Leon models will continue with internal combustion engines for another decade. With the message of fear not petrol heads, you still have some time.
Cupra has confirmed however, that the next-generation Leon will “definitely be electric.”
The current Leon is available with either turbocharged petrol or plug-in hybrid options.
Deepal S07 2025 reviewed
Chasing Cars deputy editor Curt Dupriez’s review of the Deepal S07 went live, marking our first drive of the new EV and any vehicle under the Deepal brand.
The sole S07 grade is a RWD priced at an affordable circa-$50k price, with a healthy range claim which comes close to 500km.
However, Dupriez found that the poor calibration across the board from the intrusive and inaccurate safety systems to the way the car drives was a big turn off.
Dupriez concluded that the S07 was a promising electric SUV with a lot going for it but it fell short in too many critical areas, leaving the door open for its many Chinese rivals to leave a better impression.
