Thanks for joining us this Wednesday 27 November 2024. Notably in car news today: BYD has secured around 4000 customer orders for Shark 6 ute in November, and Mahindra has announced two new electric SUVs.
Browse this issue:
- Close to 4000 orders placed for BYD Shark 6 in Australia
- New Mahindra electric cars revealed
- Porsche not going to stop developing combustion cars
- Suzuki drops prices by 10 per cent
- Reviewed: 2025 BMW M135 xDrive
Close to 4000 orders placed for BYD’s Shark 6 ute
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BYD’s local distributor EV Direct has announced it has received almost 4000 orders placed for its first ute, the Shark 6.
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The Shark 6 only went on sale on October 29, showing the clear appetite from Aussies for dual-cab utes in our market.
The 2025 BYD Shark 6 has seen 4000 orders already
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Although orders placed should not be compared to registered vehicles reported to VFACTS, the Shark 6 could be very competitive in the sales charts against the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger competitors should demand for the newcomer prove to be sustainable.
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BYD has confirmed the first Shark 6 utes will arrive in Australia in late January 2025. The ute has been priced at $57,900 before on-road costs. The Chinese automaker is currently facilitating test drives for the ute through its local sales website.
Mahindra launches new BE 6e and XEV 9e electric cars
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Indian automaker Mahindra has launched two new electric SUVs, the BE 6e and the XEV 9e.
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As part of the brand’s new Inglo Electric Origin series, the two electric SUVs will use either a 59kWh or 79kWh battery pack and will be able to travel as far as a claimed 682km (quoted with MIDC testing protocol).
Mahindra claims their new SUVs will be capable of producing 210kW.
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Although the number of electric motors is not stated, the SUVs will use powertrains capable of producing up to 210kW and will also use five-link independent rear suspension with semi-active dampers.
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The XEV 9e, for example, will use three 12.3-inch screens, multiple drive modes, ADAS Level 2 active safety, 360-degree cameras and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
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Pricing for the models in India range from 1,890,000 rupees (AUD$34,620) to 2,190,000 rupees (AUD$40,120), with deliveries in their domestic market set to take place by March 2025.
Porsche not going to stop combustion models, will offer something for every buyer
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Porsche is going full steam ahead with its combustion models as demand softens for some of its electric offerings.
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The brand plans to continue the ICE versions of its Cayenne large SUV and its Panamera large car. We also know that the 911 will unlikely ever transition to a fully-electric format using its famed nameplate.
Porsche says it’s full steam ahead for combustion models
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With Porsche now launching the Macan EV here in Australia, and the updated Taycan now available, too, the next mission is the all-electric 718 Boxster and Cayman successor – set to take on the already-launched MG Cyberster.
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Porsche has also begun to roll out its first hybrid 911 which utilises a 400-volt, 1.9kWh battery pack and an electric motor mounted between its flat-six engine and its PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Suzuki drop prices by 10 per cent across the board for Black Friday
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Suzuki has announced Black Friday sales, with a 10 per cent discount being applied across their vehicle range.
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This Black Friday sale runs between the 22nd and the 29th of November, of while stocks last for the model lineups.
Suzuki Jimny XL is also up for a 10% Black Friday discount
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Even the popular Jimny line-up is reduced by 10 per cent, making the range start from $31,491 driveaway.
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As always, there is small print – with this offer only applying to participating Suzuki dealers on current new or demonstrator stock, and is limited to two vehicles maximum per customer.
BMW M135 xDrive reviewed
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Chasing Cars contributor Stephen Dobie’s written review of the 2025 BMW M135 xDrive was published, including his findings on whether the newest BMW 1 Series is any more fun than before.
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Stephen found the new performance 1 Series to have punchy performance and a sharp transmission, along with a premium interior presentation.
2025 BMW M135 xDrive – is it more fun than before?
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However, some things that weren’t as appealing included the BMW’s styling, it’s high price and that the model still favours the element of grip over fun.
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Stephen concluded his review by stating that “the lingering question is whether it’s thrilling enough. It certainly encourages commitment and the more you give, the more you get from this car … I think there is a depth to this chassis you’d uncover with time”.
READ: Link to written review
The next issue of Car News Today will be published on Thursday 28 November at 4.30pm Sydney time.
