Car News

Rolls-Royce dabbles in a world most manufacturers couldn't dream of. At some brands, leather is considered a luxury option. At others, you can have that leather quilted, or stitched in all manner of crazy colours. At Rolls-Royce, that's just run-of-the-mill. At Rolls-Royce, it takes something seriously special to register as a special options. Something like this Champagne Chest, described as an "Epicurean Delight".

BMW M has revealed a commemorative version of its M5 super sedan, dubbed the Edition 35 Years. UPDATE, 20/5/19: BMW Australia has confirmed Australia will get a limited allocation of the M5 Edition 35 Years. See bottom of article for details.

Volkswagen has continued the drip-feed of information about the 2020 Mk8 Golf, revealing details about the car's 48V mild-hybrid powertrains. Initially, the mHEV (that'd be mild hybrid electric vehicle) system will be mated with a 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrol engines and a DSG, but Volkswagen says the tech will eventually spread to "the entire fleet", and claims it's good for a 0.4L/100km improvement in consumption.

Ford of Europe has revealed a more practical alternative to the Focus ST hatch, but it's reserved for overseas markets unfortunately. As with the hatch, the Focus ST wagon is available with either a 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, or a 206kW/420Nm 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol mill. Both engines come standard with a six-speed manual, while the petrol is available with a seven-speed automatic as well.

Volvo Car Australia has confirmed the all-new V60 wagon will be joining the local range before the end of the year, shortly after its S60 sedan twin lobs Down Under. At this stage a handful of engine and trim variants will be offered here, including the flagship T8 plug-in hybrid with its powerful 288kW/640Nm petrol-electric drivetrain.