Car News

New research has found one third of Australians would drink more alcohol if they had access to an autonomous (self-driving) car. In a study published on March 2020, researchers from Perth's Curtin University surveyed 1334 Australian adults of legal driving age to ascertain how their access to autonomous vehicles (AVs) could impact their alcohol consumption habits.

Recent trademark applications made by Toyota suggest the brand could be planning Gazoo Racing versions of its Corolla and C-HR models for Australia. The three applications, lodged with Intellectual Property Australia (and noted on GR86.org), seek trademarks for the terms ‘GR Corolla’, ‘C-HR GR-Sport’ and ‘C-HR GR-S’. GR stands for Gazoo Racing – the nameplate for Toyota’s new generation of performance vehicles. The GR badge is already worn by the Supra and upcoming GR Yaris.

Industry analysts have forecast the biggest fall in new-car sales since the Global Financial Crisis in the US, as Australian dealers report the toughest conditions in memory – however the sharp declines are likely to drive mega deals in April. New-car showrooms across Australia remain open – although some have reduced hours – as the industry has switched to a “contactless” sales model.

The price of petrol might be hitting 20-year lows but as night follows day the cost will go up. As many motorists look to save money amid the coronavirus outbreak, we’ve compiled a list of five of the most economical new cars under $20,000. There’s not a hybrid among them because petrol-electric technology is still relatively expensive, but the good news is all of these cars can run on regular 91 unleaded; they don’t require expensive premium unleaded.

UPDATE: New photos of the 2021 Audi A3 have been released, showing the new Sportback in outdoor driving lights and new colours. Our original story continues below. March 3, 2020: Exactly eight years since its predecessor was first unveiled and four years since its last facelift, the new fourth-generation 2021 Audi A3 Sportback has been unveiled online.