Car News

Remember two weeks ago, when we covered a promised review of current automotive advertising standards? And remember how we said "there are some ways to get around the code" and have fun with a commercial, holding up Volkswagen's latest Amarok V6 campaign as an example? Turns out, we spoke too soon on that one.

The first police force in the world to use a Kia Stinger - Queensland Police - has allowed Kia Australia to bring one of its operational police cars to the mecca of mechanical performance and modification - SEMA 2018. There's good reason for it too. Built in Australia almost at the last minute and shipped to the States specifically for the SEMA show, the Stinger is all about showcasing the potential of the vehicle for police operations globally.

Honda doesn't offer a dual-cab ute for the Australian market, but it's not truck-less everywhere in the world. If you live in North America, the company will sell you a Ridgeline, a monocoque dual-cab pickup designed to offer a car-like drive than its body-on-frame rivals.

American Special Vehicles has issued a recall for the 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500, over concerns about a defective tailgate latch. According to the company, the latch might disconnect while the vehicle is driving. If there's anything unrestrained in the tray, there's a risk it'll slide onto the road and create a hazard for other road users. A total of 663 vehicles built between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2017 are included in the campaign – a VIN list is attached here.

UPDATE: Mazda has today issued a press release that confirms this story, including the price of $494.98, for the retrofit installation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into all models equipped with the MZD Connect infotainment system. The upgrade is available now, and all new MZD Connect-equipped models entering Australia will have the two platforms installed as standard. If you are buying a brand-new Mazda, we recommend you confirm with the dealer that CarPlay and Android will be included.