Every important car news story breaking today, in one convenient read
Thanks for joining us this Tuesday 10 December 2024. Notably in car news today: Tesla could be building a cheaper electric car after all, and Toyota Australia confirms pricing for its GR Corolla and Yaris models, including new automatic variants.
More affordable ‘Tesla Model Q’ possibilities building: report
Tesla could in fact be developing a more affordable model for global markets, according to reports from Carscoops.
Reports from a Deutsche Bank document leak, originally found by a journalist at the Wall Street Journal, refers to a ‘Model Q’ that could go on sale in the US market for around USD$30,000 (AUD$46,000).
A new Tesla model could be coming soon!
While Tesla boss Elon Musk has already snubbed the idea of a more affordable EV project (in favour of his Robotaxi program), this Model Q could be built on an existing Tesla platform, like that of the Model 3or Model Y.
The fresh report and tweets from the WSJ journalist does not make mention of the term ‘Redwood’ which was initially linked to the affordable electric vehicle on a bespoke platform.
If Tesla does produce a cheaper EV than its current Model 3, the brand could better compete with the influx of cheaper Chinese EVs available globally, like the BYD Atto 3 or MG 4.
Toyota prices 2025 GR models, adds auto option to Corolla and Yaris
The GR Yaris now starts from $55,490 before on-road costs for a GT, while the GT automatic is $2500 more expensive, priced at $57,990. The GR Yaris now tops out in GTS auto guise at $62,990 before on-road costs.
The GR Yaris and GR Corolla now come in automatic guise
Meanwhile, the 2025 GR Corolla starts at $67,990 before on-road costs, with the automatic version priced $2500 higher at $70,490 before on-road costs.
For the GR Yaris and Corolla, engine torque has increased from 370Nm to 400Nm, with power remaining at 221kW. An eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission will be available in both GR Yaris and GR Corolla models.
Toyota has also pulled out 13kg from the Corolla, with a new carbon-fibre roof now standard. The GR Corolla is on sale now, while the auto variant of the GR Yaris is not due in Australia until mid 2025.
RAM Trucks Australia builds final Hemi V8-powered 1500 pickup
Ram Trucks Australia has built its last Hemi V8-powered 1500 pickup locally, an engine that will be succeeded by a turbocharged straight-six petrol replacement in the very near future.
Ram has confirmed that the last V8 pickup is the 28,495th example to be converted from left- to right-hand drive in Victoria.
Ram Trucks employees celebrate the last of the Hemi V8s
The naturally-aspirated 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine currently produces outputs of 291kW/556Nm, but will be replaced by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol inline-six engine called the Hurricane.
The new Hurricane engines produce between 310kW and 400kW depending on specification, with torque sitting at a maximum of 706Nm. It’s a brand new series of engines and uses double-overhead cams, 24 valves and a pair of twin-scroll turbochargers.
The new Ram 1500 with turbo six power is due in Australia in the first half of 2025.
Toyota delays new Lexus EVs, won’t come until mid 2027
Toyota has reportedly delayed a range of electric models for its luxury arm Lexus, according to Carscoops.
The Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL models have been delayed until mid to late 2027, rather than 2026, likely due to Toyota fine-tuning its new Gigacasting processes – a method somewhat copied from EV giant Tesla.
Lexus’ future electric cars are being delayed
These new models are set to use new prismatic battery cells that could allow for driving ranges as high as 1000km.
Toyota currently has one EV on sale in Australia, the BZ4X midsize SUV, while Lexus has the equivalent RZ electric model.
More models are planned, however Toyota is playing things safe (and keeping info close to their chest) for their next electric vehicle move.
Xiaomi YU7 SUV is what happens when a Ferrari Purosangue and Aston Martin DBX are merged together
Up-and-coming Chinese EV maker Xiaomi has unveiled its first electric SUV called the YU7, and it looks as if it was styled with a mix of Ferrari and Aston Martin.
With a very Purosangue-looking front end and a similar Aston Martin DBX style at the rear, the Xiaomi YU7 is the SUV version of the brand’s SU7 sedan.
The new Xiaomi YU7 electric SUV
Power is provided thanks to a CATL battery pack (up to 101kWh in capacity) and dual electric motors for maximum system outputs of 508kW.
But what is Xiaomi? It’s a very young Chinese electric automaker, having only been founded in September 2021. It’s the automotive offshoot of the larger Xiaomi brand known for its production of consumer electronics.
The YU7 is likely to be a direct rival for the Tesla Model Y, and if introduced into Australia, would fit in with vehicles such as the Xpeng G6, BYD Atto 3, Deepal S07and more.
2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain reviewed
Chasing Cars journalist Zak Adkins’ video review of the 2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrainwas published, including his thoughts on the latest changes for the 2024 model year.
Zak thought there were many positives to his experience with the D-Max, including its strong 3.0-litre engine, tough appearance, well-tuned safety assist systems and solid infotainment upgrades.
However, Zak also found the engine to be clattery, along with low-res screens, a firm ride and the need for standard all-terrain tyres.
Zak concluded his review by recommending the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, saying that “With an attractive drive-away price, plenty of practicality and tough looks, the D-Max is a ute I’d put toward the higher end of the ute ladder”.
