Car news today: Geely’s Prado rival revealed, Lexus ES electric coming to Oz, and more – 28 April 2025

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Thanks for joining us this Monday, April 28th 2025. Notably in car news today: Geely Galaxy Cruiser aims to take on Toyota Prado and GWM Tank 500, Lexus ES coming to Australia in electric and hybrid forms, and more

Browse this issue:

• Galaxy Cruiser is Geely’s answer to the Toyota Prado
• Next-gen Lexus ES sedan coming to Oz in 2026 in a choice of EV or hybrid
• MG Cyberster RWD launched in Oz under $100K
• Slate Auto’s build-a-truck is the ute concept we want

• 2025 Jaecoo J7 Summit SHS plug-in hybrid

Geely Galaxy Cruiser boasts “AI digital chassis” and floating capabilities  

• Geely has unveiled its Galaxy Cruiser SUV at the recent Shanghai motor show, a Toyota Prado-rivalling PHEV boasting a number of unique features and functions. 

• The Galaxy Cruiser claims to be the “world’s first SUV capable of switching between…pure electric, hybrid and range extender…in real time” thanks to an “AI-driven all-wheel drive system”.

• The concept’s novel all-terrain all-wheel-drive system is said to be capable of extreme maneuverability, including crab walking, on-the-spot pivoting and autonomous drifting. 

• While details are slim, the plug-in hybrid SUV is claimed to be able to float on water and cruise for up to two hours at speeds in excess of 8.5km/h (4.6 knots), aided by a “vehicle-mounted sonar and water radar”. There are no details as to whether the new Geely SUV will eventually be offered in Australia.

Next-gen Lexus ES coming to Australia in 2026 as an EV or hybrid

• Lexus has revealed details of the eighth-generation ES luxury sedan, set to launch in Australia in 2026 in a choice of fully electric or conventional petrol-electric hybrid powertrains.   

• Now certifiably large in segmentation, the sedan now stretches to 5.14 metres in length (up 165mm) and features a coupe-like silhouette while retaining a four-door body style.  

• The new ES features a more minimalist interior design that includes a large 14.0-inch central media touchscreen as well as a cowled digital instrumentation cluster for the driver. Interior space is said to be improved and will be offered in a choice of three colour schemes.   

• Hybrid powertrain choice includes a 145kW 2.0L petrol hybrid (ES300h) and a choice of 148kW (2WD) or 182kW (AWD) 2.5L four-cylinder hybrids (ES350h). Meanwhile, electric power is split between a 165kW front-driver (ES350e) and an all-wheel-driven 252kW (ES500e) version. Check out our full rundown on the new Lexus ES here.

MG Cyberster RWD launched in Oz under $100K

• MG Motor has launched a cheaper, rear-wheel drive Cyberster in Australia, joining its $115,000 (MSRP) all-wheel drive counterpart. The Cyberster RWD is a more affordable entry into MG’s most exclusive model, with a starting price of $99,900 (MSRP).

• A return to form for the once-British brand, the new Cyberster variant is more in tune with MG’s past. With a reduced kerb weight and simpler rear-wheel-only drivetrain, the Cyberster is likely the closest we’ll get to an MG-B revival.

• Unquestionably a b-road ready two-door sports coupe, the Cyberster RWD uses the same 77kWh battery found in the premium AWD version. This means an increased range to 552km (NEDC). Overall power output is reduced however, to 250kW/475Nm. 

• MG first launched the Cyberster AWD in August 2024. The newly released version brings with it exclusive 19-inch wheels and a nappa leather interior. A new exterior colour also headlines the launch: Mayfair Blue will now be available for both variants. 

Slate Auto’s build-a-truck is the ute concept we want 

• US-based carmaker Slate Auto has revealed its new two-door ute concept, which promises a sub-$20,000USD base price when factoring current US federal rebates for electric vehicles.

• Slate’s modular car-building concept is revolutionary for electric vehicles and their consumers. The base two-door ute can be configured into an SUV, open-top convertible or wagon. This promise of groundbreaking versatility gives budget conscious buyers more choice in light of US financial uncertainty. 

• Customisability extends beyond body shape, with a wealth of options for the vehicle’s interior and exterior. Slate promises an exterior body wrap in almost any colour, as well as in-house custom grilles, wheels, and decals. Modular components like screens and speakers can also be optioned inside the car. 

• American deliveries of Slate’s ute are expected to commence in late 2026. Currently, Slate has no presence in Australia, and has no public plans to bring its affordable modular ute to local markets. 

Jaecoo J7 Summit SHS plug-in hybrid 2025 review

• Chasing Cars Road Test Editor John Law’s  review of the 2025 Jaecoo J7 PHEV was published, including his assessment of the interior build quality and driving dynamics of the mid-size plug-in hybrid.

• Law praised Jaecoo for producing a plush, well-thought out interior, featuring a wealth of premium-feel materials. He acknowledged the high level of technology inside the car, including heated/ventilated seats and large central touchscreen.

• Unfortunately, Law was left disappointed with the Jaecoo J7’s unique handling characteristics, which felt cumbersome and non-linear. The J7 suffered from an average ride quality, and vague steering.

• The Jaecoo J7 PHEV undoubtedly delivers a great level of value and equipment for $47,990 driveaway. Sadly, with a stiff ride quality, underpowered drivetrain and tiring steering response, the J7 PHEV is likely to be overshadowed by more costly rivals. 

Read: Jaecoo J7 Summit SHS plug-in hybrid review

The next issue of Car News Today will be published on Tuesday 29th April at 4.30pm Sydney time.