Car News Today: May 28, 2025
The latest car news stories breaking today include BMW Australia’s confirmation and pricing of the high-performance M2 CS, Hyundai’s plans for a debut ute in Australia, and a seven-year warranty extension. Here’s a roundup of the most important stories:
BMW M2 CS Confirmed for Australia
BMW Australia has launched its most powerful M2 variant, the M2 CS, with a starting price of $172,900 RRP. This represents a $46,600 increase over the standard M2. The M2 CS boasts 390kW/650Nm from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine, thanks to an additional 37kW and 50Nm over the standard M2. Key upgrades include BMW M Sport “carbon” bucket seats, compound brakes, and carbon-fibre exterior enhancements.
Hyundai Confirms Ute Plans and Seven-Year Warranty
Hyundai Australia’s CEO, Dom Romano, has confirmed plans to launch a ute in Australia, based on the Kia Tasman platform. The ute will initially feature a diesel engine, with hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants to follow. Hyundai is also introducing a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for vehicles sold on or after January 1, 2025. Romano emphasized the need to compete with rivals like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.
Subaru Forester Priced for Australia
Subaru Australia has announced pricing for the sixth-generation Forester, with seven variants available, including four combustion models and three hybrids. The base model starts at $43,490 before on-road costs, while the top-of-the-line Touring and Touring Hybrid models are priced at $50,990 and $55,990, respectively. A controversial spare wheel solution for hybrid models has been met with criticism from buyers.
Land Rover Defender Mid-Life Upgrade
Land Rover Australia is set to release an updated Defender in October 2025, featuring revised exterior styling, new interior technology, including a 13.1-inch infotainment screen, and the introduction of a 313kW 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine option for both Defender 90 and 110 bodystyles. Pricing starts at $92,626 for the base Defender 90.
The next issue of Car News Today will be published on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 4:30 pm Sydney time. Stay tuned for more updates from the automotive world.
