Car News

Mazda Australia has recalled the 2018-19 CX-5 and Mazda 6, and the 2019 Mazda 3, over concerns about the powertrain control module. According to the company, the software controlling the cylinder deactivation function mightn't operate correctly, and could make an intake valve rocker arm move out of position, putting it at risk of making contact with 'other internal engine parts'.

The upcoming BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has been snapped in testing, ahead of a reveal on July 24. Based on the same UKL platform as the 1 Series and Mini models, the 2 Series Gran Coupe is a style-focused rival to the Mercedes-Benz CLA.

BMW’s i3 was one of the earliest ‘mainstream’ electric vehicles, but it may be retired after its first generation according to a new report. Speaking with the UK’s Auto Express, BMW member of the board of management, Pieter Nota, said: “It is difficult to say if the i3 will have a straight successor as it [electrification] goes more into the mainstream like the upcoming iX3”.

The recently-unveiled electro-turbo-diesel 2020 Audi S4 TDI is not coming to Australia, instead arriving in 2020 in existing petrol TFSI form. Launched concurrently with the facelifted A4 range in Italy this week, the S4 TDI will initially be reserved for European markets. ”Elsewhere in the world, regions such as Australia and the US will get the petrol-powered TFSI versions of the sedan and Avant,” explains Audi Australia communications manager, Shaun Cleary.

Ford has upped the pressure on its ute-based SUV rivals, adding potentially life-saving autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and pedestrian detection technology to its entire 2019 Everest range. The seven-seat SUV is based on the Ranger platform, and goes head-to-head with the Isuzu MU-X, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Holden Trailblazer and Toyota Fortuner.