Subaru

Images of an upcoming fully-electric Toyota SUV show the striking similarities between it and a Subaru concept shown earlier this year. It's believed the unnamed concept will be the Subaru Evoltis and will share its electric 'skateboard' platform – as well as much of its SUV body – with the mysterious Toyota, first seen in patent filings revealed last month.

Details have emerged of Subaru's next generation of engines, according to a report from Japanese website CarSensor. Three new turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engines are expected to be introduced in Subaru's new range from 2021. The first is a 1.5-litre direct-injection engine, understood to replace the 2.0-litre non-turbo engine currently fitted to the Impreza sedan and hatch and soft-roader XV hatch. While unconfirmed at this stage, power output is thought to be around 110kW.

As Australia braces for a recession, some surprising new cars have bucked the sharp downward sales trend. New-car sales fell by 35.3 per cent in May compared to the same month the previous year, following a shocker in April (down 48.5 per cent). Both represented the biggest declines in at least 30 years. While sales of utes and four-wheel-drives have picked up in the lead-up to June 30 and as many motorists plan to holiday at home, there are some niche models that have also performed well.

The new Toyota 86 sports car will go on sale next year, according to a photo of a dealer presentation that has been leaked on the GR86.org forum. The photo shows a series of upcoming models including the next generation Toyota Tundra pick-up and an all-new compact SUV likely to slot beneath the Toyota C-HR. However, for the time being, the Toyota 86 is the only car on the list likely to make its way to Australia.

Subaru has confirmed final powertrain specifications and details on its new XV and Forester hybrid variants, each model marking a first for the brand in Australia. Keen buyers should note, however, that the range is now already sold out until May. Details here. Both the (small) XV and (mid-sized) Forester SUVs employ the same hybrid drivetrain. The new system, which works in conjunction with Subaru’s existing 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer engine, was developed by Subaru.