Car news today, 9 February 2025: New-gen Toyota Hilux spotted in prototype form, the BYD Dolphin becomes Australia’s cheapest EV, and more

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Thanks for joining us this Thursday, January 9th 2025. Notably in car news today: the new-generation Toyota Hilux has been spotted for the first time in prototype form and the BYD Dolphin is now officially Australia’s cheapest EV.

Browse this issue:

• 2026 Toyota Hilux spotted in prototype form
• BYD Dolphin now sub-$30,000, cheapest EV in Australia
• BYD Yangwang U8 previewed in Australia 
• Porsche adds Carrera S to the 911 lineup    
• Reviewed: 24 electrics at our EV Megatest

2026 Toyota Hilux spotted in prototype form

• The new-generation Toyota Hilux has been spotted for the first time in prototype form by Thailand’s HeadlightMag, ahead of the ute’s expected debut in 2026.

• The series of images show the popular 4×4 in dual-cab form with only the tub and front end covered by camouflage.

• It provides some credibility to rumours that the inbound Hilux will be a heavily revised version of the current model, rather than an all-new model like the US-market Tacoma.

• At the front, a sharper design for the headlights and smaller grille can be seen, with the body work slightly more pronounced, likely to accommodate the wider track first seen on the current generation Rogue. 

BYD Dolphin now sub-$30,000, cheapest EV in Australia

• BYD has slashed the starting price of the Dolphin hatch to $29,990 before on-road costs, becoming the first EV to dip below $30,000 in Australia.

• The entry price of the popular Atto 3 small SUV was also cut to $39,990, reflecting a $6900 cut for the Dolphin and circa-$4500 cut for the Atto 3.

• It comes as deals on the rival MG4 hatch dipped to $32,990 driveaway under a sale last year which has now ended. The current starting price is $34,990 driveaway.

• The high prices of EVs in comparison to petrol, diesel and hybrid alternatives remain a key concern for Australia buyers with many manufacturers signalling an intent to bring costs down to make EVs more accessible.

BYD Yangwang U8 has landed in Australia 

• China’s ultimate luxury off-road, the BYD Yangwang U8, which famously produces 880kW/1280Nm from a quad-motor system, accelerates to 100km/h in 3.6 seconds and has the ability to float and ‘swim’ for up to 30 minutes, has landed in Australia.

• Although not officially earmarked for sale just yet, BYD has expressed interest in bringing its flagship to Australia.

• Three examples of the vehicle have been brought into the country in NSW, VIC and QLD dealerships; likely to gauge interest from the public. 

• If it does come to Australia, it’s unlikely to be cheap with the 4×4 retailing for around $250,000 AUD in China.

Porsche adds Carrera S to the 911 lineup

• Porsche has reintroduced the 911 Carrera S grade to the lineup with the updated model priced at $342,700, reflecting a circa-$27,000 increase over its previous form.

• The Carrera S boasts a more comprehensive list of standard features along with enhanced outputs of 353kW and 530Nm from its 3.0L twin-turbo flat six. ‘

• Available only with the seven-speed PDK automatic, the Carrera S sits between the regular Carrera and the GTS in terms of both price and performance.

Chasing Cars EV Megatest – 24 electric vehicles tested 

• As a Christmas present to our wonderful audience, the Chasing Cars team released a 40-minute 2024 EV megatest on Christmas day.  

• If you didn’t get a chance to watch this massive EV comparison during the silly season, now is the time to do just that. It doesn’t matter if you are in the market for an EV or not, there’s so much great information in this video, there’s something for everyone.  

• 24 EVs were included in the test, which was held on road and in a private testing facility, purpose built for comprehensive vehicle analysis. 

• You’ll have to watch the video to see all the action, to see which EV our judges felt deserved to win, and those that still have some work to do. 

Watch: Link to video 

The next issue of Car News Today will be published on Friday 10th January at 4.30pm Sydney time.