Car News

Honda Australia has confirmed initial details for the 10th-generation Accord sedan line-up ahead of a December launch, with the headlining act to be the company's latest hybrid drivetrain. The 2019 Accord will offer 1.5-litre turbo petrol and 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain options – the latter signalling a return to electrification for Honda's passenger car range.

As the sole carmaker to continue offering a manual option in the premium mid-sized high-performance segment, BMW M is bucking tradition and looking to position the 'stick shift' format as a flagship option in the now-delayed 2021 M3 and M4 range. “The manual stick shift is not an entry proposition any more,” says the boss of BMW M Division, Markus Flasch. “It used to be the entry transmission then on top of that you’d have the automatic or a sequential gearbox or whatever.

There are reportedly high-level talks regarding a merger of Fiat Chrysler (FCA) and the PSA Group, which could create a new automaker valued at around US$50 billion ($73 billion). Sources have told the Wall Street Journal the two parties are discussing an all-share transaction. Should such a deal occur, PSA CEO Carlos Tavares would lead the newly merged automaker, while John Elkann, and head of the Agnelli family which holds a controlling stake in FCA, would become its chairman.

Honda Australia hasn't given up on bringing its cute-as-a-button electric hatchback – known simply has the Honda E – into local showrooms, despite reports that it has already been ruled out. Reports from the Tokyo motor show claimed the Honda E was not coming to Australia based on a quote from Honda CEO, Takahiro Hachigo. "Honda E is just for Japan and Europe," he told Australian media. "There are no plans unfortunately for Australia now."

Lotus Cars Australia has revealed an exclusive limited-run model for our market – the Elise Cup 250 Bathurst Edition. Capped at just six units, the Bathurst Edition is priced from $109,990 plus on-road costs, and features an array of special appointments compared to the 'standard' Elise Cup 250.