Thanks for joining us this Wednesday January 29th 2025. Notably in car news today: the 2026 Toyota RAV4 has been spotted while testing in the States, Mitsubishi has a new electric SUV on the way, Mazda announces pricing for the facelifted BT-50, and more.
Powerplant options are yet to be confirmed, however rumours are circulating regarding the inclusion of the new-gen Camry’s 2.5L hybrid motor that produces up to 170kW.
Mitsubishi’s new electric SUV coming in 2026
Mitsubishi’s first EV sold out of Asian markets since the i-MiEV is coming; with reports the vehicle is expected to kick off sales in America 2026.
Rumoured to be based on the new-generation Nissan Leaf platform, after recent negotiations between Mitsubishi and Nissan.
It is rumoured the new Mitsubishi EV will be Nissan Leaf based.
At this stage, it is not confirmed if we will see this electric SUV in Australia, however considering Mitsubishi has removed vehicles from the local line-up recently, an EV SUV could fill some gaps.
Mitsubishi has also mentioned they will have electric vehicles on sale in Australia by 2030, as well as plug-in hybrids and hybrid vehicles.
Mazda releases pricing and specifications for 2025 BT-50 ute
Pricing and specs have been revealed for the 2025 Mazda BT-50 ahead of the media launch held next week.
Main changes to the exterior include a new grille, a new front bumper bar, revised LED headlights, and a tailgate freshen up including tailgate damping.
2025 sees an updated Mazda BT-50.
Inside the 2025 Mazda BT-50, you’ll find an updated 8.0-inch touchscreen (XS and XT models) or a 9.0-inch unit (XTR, GT and SP models). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wireless across the line.
Pricing starts from $36,400 for the XS single cab chassis 4×2 and tops out at $71,500 for the SP Dual Cab 4×4. There are 15 variants of the 2025 Mazda BT-50 available in the line-up.
Lexus confirms the 2025 LX will come in off-road ready Overtrail grade
Following on from the GX Overtrail, Lexus has just announced they are bringing the track readyOvertrail grade to luxury spec LX trim for 2025.
Off-road party tricks for the LX Overtrail include front, rear and centre differential locks, Toyo Open Country tyres, Multi-Terrain Select, 18-inch wheels and Active Height Control.
Lexus is getting serious when it comes to off-road technology.
Lexus Australia Chief Executive, John Pappas, said the LX Overtrail is designed for LX customers who are looking for the combination of off-road ability and refinement.
Engine options will be either a 3.3L V6 diesel that produces 227kW and 700Nm of torque, or a 3.5L petrol engine that makes 305kW and 650Nm. Lexus Australia is currently evaluating a hybrid option for the Australian market as well.
Iain says that if you’re in the market for a dual-cab that can tow and tour off the showroom floor, the Tour Mate ticks lots of boxes.
Isuzu D-Max LS-U+ Tour Mate is ready to tow and tour from the factory.
The 2025 Tour Mate package offered impressive off-road capability whilst on test, as well as a 910kg payload capacity and the venerable 3.0L motor which he describes as a workhorse.
Where he sees improvement, is the lack of a bull bar which is odd in Australia, and questions the price coming in at a steep $72,990.
