Car News

Mazda has revealed how much power its high-tech 2.0-litre Skyactiv-X petrol engine, which leans on diesel-style compression ignition, will make when it launches in the European Mazda 3. First up, the numbers. Peak power is 132kW (177hp) at 6000rpm and peak torque is 224Nm at 3000rpm, and the engine will return 53.5mpg (5.3L/100km) on the WLTP combined cycle with a six-speed manual transmission, or 44.4mpg (6.4L/100km) with a six-speed automatic.

In what should come as no surprise, responsible vehicle manufacturers will look well beyond the first phase of a battery's life to lessen the long-term environmental impact of electric vehicles – and that's exactly what Nissan is doing. Francisco Carranza, managing director of Nissan Energy Services, told CarAdvice in Madrid the Leaf's battery packs will "outlast the car by another 10 to 12 years".

BMW has released its first wireless software update for its OS7.0 infotainment system, with fresh functionality from its 'Intelligent Personal Assistant'. The update is available on the new X5, 3 Series and 8 Series, and includes changes to the personal assistant, adaptive cruise control and side collision protection systems.

The Infiniti Q50 will debut a new driver-assistance system that will allow for hands-off driving later this year. Exclusive to the Japanese market at this stage, the Q50 – sold in its home region as the Nissan Skyline – will get an enhanced ProPilot technology suite (dubbed ProPilot 2.0) that uses the vehicle's navigation system to assist drivers on the highway over a pre-determined route.

Toyota Australia is finally poised to roll out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across its new-car range – starting with the new RAV4 which goes on sale this week. However, the technology won’t be fitted to cars on the production line until later this year. The initial batch of new-generation RAV4s delivered in Australia between now and the fourth quarter of 2019 will need to be taken back to the dealer for a free upgrade if customers want to take up the option.