The week’s top news stories: September 2, 2018

The automotive news wheel is always turning. If you’re not constantly checking CarAdvice – which you should be doing, by the way – it can be easy for some headlines to slip through the cracks.

To make sure you haven’t missed anything important, we’ve gathered what we reckon are the hottest news stories from this week, right here. Check them out, and let us know what caught your eye.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a forward-looking take on the legendary streamliners of its past in California, pulling back the sheet on the stunning Vision EQ Silver Arrow.

Obviously this isn't a production teaser. It's a nostalgic look at our electric future, with 550kW on tap from two electric motors mated with an 80kWh battery. Claimed range is 400km on the WLTP test cycle, although that's an estimate.

Once again, this isn't a production car

Audi has stopped production of the RS3 Sportback and sedan due to the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), with the models currently unavailable to order in Australia.

The brand's local arm confirmed the news this week with CarAdvice

Mazda has revealed pricing and specifications for its 2019 CX-3 small SUV range, which follows the lead of international versions by introducing a new centre console design with armrest and a new larger 1.8-litre diesel engine option.

Not enough, too much or just right?

Honda has expanded its CR-V range, announcing the launch of a new entry-level Vi variant with a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine and CVT.

The new base CR-V will be priced from $28,290 before on-road costs

Volkswagen Australia has announced pricing and specs for the 2019 Golf R, revealing it will also offer a limited-run Golf R Special Edition from November with a louder exhaust and a few choice performance upgrades.

The headline act in the Special Edition, of which just 400 units will be available locally, is a titanium exhaust from Akrapovic

The head of Honda's local arm says that whatever the brand might look to take leadership on in the Australian market, electrification won't be at the top of the list.

Honda Australia boss Stephen Collins touched on a two-fold problem

Small nods to pedestrians, waves for polite drivers and high-beam flashes to warn of impending speed cameras are all part of the fabric making our road system work. They're also beyond reach for cars without an empathetic human behind the wheel.

Terrifying. Utterly terrifying

Mazda has topped the JD Power Customer Service Satisfaction survey for the third year running in Australia, edging Toyota and Nissan for the crown.

There were a few trends throughout the survey

The updated Lexus RC has been officially revealed by the company's European division today, ahead of an official debut at the Paris motor show in October 2.

Are the new looks an improvement?

Skoda has revealed the first sketches of its Vision RS concept, ahead of a full reveal at the Paris motor show in October.

It previews a "future compact car, while ringing in the next design phase for its sporting RS model range"

Mercedes-Benz Australia has released pricing and preliminary specifications for the facelifted C-Class range, which goes on sale in September priced from $63,400 before on-road costs.

Light design revisions, new powertrains

Jeep has revealed pricing and specifications for the facelifted 2019 Cherokee, which will touch down from $35,950 before on-road costs.

Are you a fan of the new look?

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