NZ Automotive Industry News

December 16th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Leading through change

MITO Limited names Verna Niao as chief executive as shift to industry-owned entity approaches.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// MTA calls for reconsideration of proposed WOF changes

MTA Chief Executive Lee Marshall says Government calculations overlook some key factors.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Simplified.

Connect directly with nearly 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with total transparency, speed, and confidence.

Whether you’re turning over aged stock or sourcing fresh inventory, with three live dealer auctions every week, you can buy and sell stock in real time without the delays or guesswork of traditional wholesale channels.

Every listing includes clear photos, verified details, and fair market pricing — ensuring smooth, trustworthy transactions between dealers who know the business.

BEST OF THE REST

// Sporty SUV unleashed

TGR range extended by Corolla Cross GR Sport that comes with unique mode.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Eagers Automotive marks 2025 leadership programme graduates

Eagers Automotive New Zealand has celebrated the 2025 graduates of its Emerging and Advanced Leaders Programme at an end-of-year ceremony held at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.

// Rental sector reports rebound

Visitors from many overseas markets are returning in greater numbers.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// 2025 Was Big For Hybrids And PHEVs. 2026 Will Be Even Bigger

EV sales are growing worldwide—just unevenly. Now, more and more buyers are turning to hybrid power, and carmakers are responding.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 16th, 20252025-12-15T16:20:51+13:00

December 15th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Advocacy delivers ‘huge win’

Industry association hails decision after MITO stakeholders were “united, consistent and spoke with a single voice”.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUCTION ONLINE

// Dealer-to-Dealer Trading. Simplified.

Connect directly with nearly 1,500 licensed motor dealers nationwide and trade with total transparency, speed, and confidence.

Whether you’re turning over aged stock or sourcing fresh inventory, with three live dealer auctions every week, you can buy and sell stock in real time without the delays or guesswork of traditional wholesale channels.

Every listing includes clear photos, verified details, and fair market pricing — ensuring smooth, trustworthy transactions between dealers who know the business.

BEST OF THE REST

// Tourism Holdings to consolidate RV production in NZ

Tourism Holdings Limited will close its RV manufacturing factory in Brisbane later this month and transition all production to Action Manufacturing in Hamilton, following a comprehensive review of its Australasian operations.

IN OTHER NEWS

// KGM Torres Hybrid lands in NZ with special introductory pricing

KGM has launched its first hybrid SUV in New Zealand, with the Torres Hybrid now available through local dealerships from $49,990 plus on-roads.

// Nissan partners with Wayve to bring next-generation AI driver assistance

Nissan has signed definitive agreements with UK autonomous-driving company Wayve to integrate advanced AI-powered driver-assistance technology into a wide range of future Nissan models.

// GWM confirms Tank 300 plug-in hybrid for NZ in early 2026

GWM has confirmed the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid will arrive in New Zealand in the first quarter of 2026, expanding the brand’s growing range of electrified off-road models.

// Royal Enfield finds home with New Zealand’s oldest motorcycle dealership

Royal Enfield New Zealand has appointed McIver & Veitch, New Zealand’s oldest motorcycle dealership, as an official Royal Enfield dealer for Dunedin.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// BMW May Finally Do What Auto Industry Has Needed For Decades

BMW has filed an international patent focused on identifying if a person has had too much to drink and shouldn’t be driving, and then won’t let them drive if that’s the case.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 15th, 20252025-12-14T21:16:32+13:00

December 12th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// New Kia Seltos unveiled with bold new looks and hybrid power

Kia has unveiled the second-generation Seltos, which sits on a newer platform, is bigger, and finally gives buyers the option of hybrid power.

// More on this 

// Automotive training ‘moves forward’

Government approves MITO’s return to industry ownership amid overhaul of work-based learning.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// UCOL automotive students snapped up by employers before finishing course

Four UCOL automotive engineering students have secured jobs before completing their studies, reflecting strong demand for skilled trainees across the motoring and heavy-vehicle sectors.

IN OTHER NEWS

// GAC Aion V, Denza B5 among five-star ANCAP rating recipients

The GAC Aion V, Denza B5, Hyundai Palisade, and the new Toyota Hilux have all received five-star ANCAP safety ratings.

// Call for permanent CCS split

Industry association urges government to introduce separate systems for used and new imports.

// Auto Trader and NZ Autocar form partnership

Auto Trader and NZ Autocar have formed a strategic partnership to integrate their online editorial operations, marking the latest collaboration in New Zealand’s evolving automotive media landscape as brands seek greater scale and reach.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Hyundai’s small new EV has a wild aero hatch design and ducktail spoiler [Image]

The IONIQ 3 is set to arrive as a smaller sibling to the IONIQ 5, but it will look a little different from other Hyundai EVs.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 12th, 20252025-12-11T20:52:51+13:00

December 11th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// GWM Tank 300 plug-in hybrid coming to NZ

GWM has confirmed that its expanding hybrid off-road line-up will grow again in 2026, with the Tank 300 Hi4-T plug-in hybrid locked in for New Zealand.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Ford partners with Renault to build new EVs

Renault Group and Ford have confirmed a major strategic partnership that will see the two manufacturers co-develop a pair of Ford-branded electric vehicles for Europe, marking a significant reset in Ford’s EV strategy as it works to regain market share in the region.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota Hilux engineers in New Zealand: behind ‘cyber sumo’ and why diesel must remain

Two of the engineers behind the new Toyota Hilux visited New Zealand this week, to drive their creation in the South Island.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Ute set for class exemption

Ford Ranger model has towing connection that meets Australian safety standards but not New Zealand’s.

// TR Group highlights major progress in EV and hydrogen fleet in latest FY25 ESG report

TR Group is expanding its low- and zero-emission fleet across New Zealand and Australia as outlined in its FY25 ESG Report, adding more battery-electric trucks, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and hybrid technology while advancing several decarbonisation trials across its rental and lease fleet.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Public needs protecting from indebted luxury car dealer, judge rules

Beacham European purchased late model vehicles such as Jaguar, Aston Martin and Bentley, refurbished them, then sold them from its showroom, which until recently was on Great South Rd.

// Govt planning overhaul aims to accelerate renewable energy projects

Energy minister Simon Watts says the Government’s overhaul of New Zealand’s planning system will make it faster and cheaper to develop renewable energy projects, backed by new transition measures to give councils and consent holders certainty as the Resource Management Act is replaced.

// All-new Audi Q3 preview in New Zealand: step to the left

Audi New Zealand is previewing the next-generation Q3 compact-SUV for prospective customers from now until March 2026, when the first Kiwi-specification production cars are set to arrive.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This Silicon Anode Breakthrough Could Mark A Turning Point For EV Batteries

This is the battery technology that could revolutionize your next EV.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 11th, 20252025-12-10T22:02:03+13:00

December 10th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Denza confirms New Zealand pricing for B5 and B8 super-hybrid SUVs

Denza has confirmed New Zealand pricing for its first local models, announcing the B5 and B8 super-hybrid SUVs as the brand prepares to enter the market.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Subaru BRZ Kiiro manual for New Zealand: bright newcomer for summer

Subaru of New Zealand is back doing the thing that it’s done so well in the past: importing small runs of niche models and creating a bit of buzz with a couple of specific flourishes.

// More on this

HOT TOPIC

// Digital fleet and fuel solution

Finance Now working with Visa, Pismo and The Online Fuel Company on fleet first for NZ.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Ford announces dealer network leadership changes

Ford New Zealand has announced significant leadership transitions within its dealership network, with two long-serving Dealer Principals set to retire in 2026 and a new appointment taking effect in January.

// Updated vehicle ratings online

The overall safety of the light fleet on Rightcar has improved by more than 50 per cent.

IN OTHER NEWS

// MG QS earns 5-star ANCAP rating

MG’s new QS seven-seat SUV has picked up a five-star ANCAP safety rating, with MG Motor New Zealand framing it as a fresh proof point for its “safety, innovation and value” pitch in the large-SUV space.

// Model ‘pushes boundaries’

New vehicle from MG Motor with first-generation IM digital chassis ready to order at dealerships.

// Write-offs likely at auctions

Industry association says border and compliance inspections should spot any cars damaged by quake.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// LG Just Landed A Billion-Dollar EV Battery Order From Mercedes-Benz

Korea’s LG Energy Solution will supply high-voltage batteries for the German automaker’s future EVs.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 10th, 20252025-12-09T19:29:12+13:00

December 9th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Skoda Elroq compact-SUV launched in New Zealand: sustainable sauce

Skoda New Zealand has launched its first pure-electric compact-SUV, the Elroq. It not only brings the brand into a new segment, it also showcases its latest design language, called “Modern Solid”.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Preview: all-new Audi Q3 lands in NZ ahead of 2026 launch

Set to arrive in showrooms from March next year, Audi New Zealand has given local media a preview of the new Q3 SUV.

// Economy shows early signs of recovery – ASB

New Zealand’s economy is beginning to turn a corner, with spending lifting and interest-rate cuts starting to flow through household budgets, according to ASB’s latest Economic Forecast Update.

IN OTHER NEWS

// MTF Finance re-appoints independent director Templeton

MTF Finance has confirmed the re-appointment of independent director Melanie Templeton for a further term, as the New Zealand-owned lender continues its business transformation programme following another strong year of performance.

// Subaru Forester crowned Japan Car of the Year, edging Prelude

Subaru’s new Forester has won Japan’s most ‘prestigious motoring prize’, edging Honda’s revived Prelude in a closely fought Japan Car of the Year (JCOTY) vote for 2025–26.

// Independent tests show EV range claims overstated

Australia’s peak motoring body says independent testing of four new electric vehicles (EVs) has found their real-world driving range to be between 3% and 31% shorter than advertised to consumers.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// This Breakthrough EV Motor Makes 1,000 Horsepower—And Fits Inside A Wheel

In-wheel motors for electric cars have never really caught on, despite several companies working hard to make them a reality.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 9th, 20252025-12-08T16:17:10+13:00

December 8th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// BYD testing smaller ‘Baby Shark’ ute in South America

BYD appears set to expand its ute line-up with a second, smaller model spotted testing in South America, positioned beneath the Shark 6 and aimed at the region’s compact pickup segment.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Toyota’s V8-powered GR GT revealed with a Kiwi connection

Toyota has finally taken the covers off the highly anticipated GR GT, which serves as the spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// The BYD Shark 6 is the best new vehicle of the year: DRIVEN Car Guide 2025 NZ Car of the Year

The BYD Shark 6 is the Overall Winner in the DRIVEN Car Guide 2025 New Zealand Car of the Year awards.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY FASTLANE RELO

// Moving Cars Made Easy

Selling cars is your business. Moving them is ours. With Fastlane Relo you’ll never worry about flights, ferries, or tricky logistics again, we handle it all. From dealer transfers to direct-to-customer deliveries, every handover is documented with photos and delivered hassle-free.

“…makes vehicle relocation simple, affordable and stress free. Highly recommend them. “

– Marty Hughes, Branch Manager – Hastings, Stephen Hill Motors.

Our nationwide network gives you fast turnaround, clear upfront quotes, and reliable updates every step of the way. You sell cars. We’ll make sure they get there. Quickly, safely, and without stress.

BEST OF THE REST

// Group expands used operations

Newmarket dealership fourth of its kind as Armstrong’s increases its retail footprint across the country.

// Vehicle retailing drives growth

Automotive sector biggest climber in dollar terms for sales volumes and values during three-month spell.

// Import levels fluctuate

Used car volumes up from prior month but down on a year ago, with results reversed for new sector.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Fuel tanker driver dies after crashing into BYD dealership in Lower Hutt

Police say the single-vehicle crash was reported about 5.30am. A police spokesperson confirmed one person died and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are continuing.

// Rising demand at auctions

Sales through Collecting Cars platform are up 44 per cent from same time a year ago.

// Škoda NZ launches Elroq and refreshed Enyaq

Škoda New Zealand is introducing two new additions to its electric portfolio with the launch of the all-new Elroq and an updated Enyaq, both adopting the brand’s Modern Solid design language and upgraded technology.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Kia EV2 sheds camo, giving us our best look at the new SUV

Kia’s most affordable electric SUV will be here in just over a month. Ahead of its debut, the EV2 was spotted with light camo, offering our best look yet.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 8th, 20252025-12-07T09:39:37+13:00

December 5th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// MG QS earns 5-star ANCAP rating

MG’s first seven-seat SUV for New Zealand, the new MG QS, has scored a full 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// You Save with AutoCheck

“… its offering is the best in the market.”
Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… I can confidently say we never looked back.”
Davide Punturiero, Dealer Principal, Tristram European

“… I’d encourage you to trial it and experience the difference.”
Tina Doherty, Group Operations Manager, Ingham Motor Group

“… we regret not making the switch sooner …”
Hayden Dahm, Group Sales Manager, Manukau Toyota Group

STATS WEEK

// Market rebuilding ‘slowly’

Uplift in new-vehicle sales “reflects steadying conditions rather than renewed expansion”.

// Dealer numbers dip

Size of register has fallen in seven of the past eight months and has 238 fewer traders than a year ago.

BEST OF THE REST

// Kia teases electric grand tourer. Is it a new Stinger?

Kia appears to be gearing up for the reveal of a new electric grand tourer concept, with fresh teaser images hinting at what many believe will be the long-rumoured successor to the Stinger.

// Progress on RUC charges

Government issues request for information from businesses on how to simplify system.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Toyota NZ renews Olympic and Paralympic partnership

Toyota New Zealand has renewed its partnership with the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) and Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ), extending its support for another four-year cycle.

// Toyota set to steal NZ sales title from mighty Ford Ranger

With just one month left in 2025, the Ford Ranger’s decade-long streak as New Zealand’s best-selling new vehicle looks set to come to a close.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Car Crashes Are A Public Health Crisis. Autonomous Cars Are The Cure.

Every year, nearly 40,000 Americans are killed in motor vehicle accidents. There are about 6 million collisions involving motor vehicles every year — about 16,500 per day

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 5th, 20252025-12-04T16:41:46+13:00

December 4th, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Mercedes-Benz is bringing back the G-Class cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed it’s bringing back the G-Class (aka G-Wagen) cabriolet. In fact, it’s already a long way down the road (off-road?) to getting the drop-top into production, with disguised cars already testing in Austria.

// More on this 

HOT TOPIC

// Skoda reimagines the past with bold all-electric 100 concept

Skoda has revived one of its historic nameplates, unveiling a striking all-electric reinterpretation of the Skoda 100.

// More on this 

STATS WEEK

// BEV sales soften in November, PHEVs rise

Battery-electric vehicle uptake softened in November for light passenger vehicles, but plug-in hybrids saw a steady rise.

// New vehicle market posts fifth month of growth, recovery ‘steady but fragile’

New vehicle registrations rose 12% in November as the market notched its fifth consecutive month of year-on-year gains, signalling what the Motor Industry Association (MIA) describes as a “gentle stabilisation” rather than a strong rebound.

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// You Save with AutoCheck

“… its offering is the best in the market.”
Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… I can confidently say we never looked back.”
Davide Punturiero, Dealer Principal, Tristram European

“… I’d encourage you to trial it and experience the difference.”
Tina Doherty, Group Operations Manager, Ingham Motor Group

“… we regret not making the switch sooner …”
Hayden Dahm, Group Sales Manager, Manukau Toyota Group

BEST OF THE REST

// Three vans go platinum

Transit sets record score in ANCAP assessments, followed by Hiace and Farizon SV.

IN OTHER NEWS

// Farizon SV electric van debuts with platinum ANCAP safety grading

Farizon’s new battery-electric SV has entered the local market with a platinum safety grading, after recording an 84% collision-avoidance score in ANCAP’s latest Commercial Van Safety Comparison programme.

// ANCAP renews call for eCall post-crash systems for NZ in wake of 2026 revamp

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has unveiled a major refreshment of its vehicle safety rating criteria, scheduled to take effect from 2026, while also renewing its call for automatic emergency call (eCall) systems to be more widely implemented in the New Zealand market.

// Lexus marks record sales, holds second place year-to-date

Lexus New Zealand has set a new annual sales record with a month still to go in the calendar year, surpassing its 2024 total and strengthening its position as the country’s second-largest luxury automotive brand.

// Bank cops record fine

CCCFA breaches result in Westpac being hit with $3.64m penalty after regulator’s probe.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Global EV Sales Report — Tiny Wuling Mini Beats Tesla Model Y!!!

Despite the expected hangover in the US market, down almost 50% YoY in October, global plugin vehicle registrations were up 10% compared to October 2024.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 4th, 20252025-12-03T22:48:01+13:00

December 3rd, 2025

HOT TOPIC

// Car loan arrears steady

Percentage of overdue accounts “well below” this year’s peak, while demand for credit is on the up.

// More on this 

SPONSORED BY AUTOCHECK

// You Save with AutoCheck

“… its offering is the best in the market.”
Jeremy Spicer, Group General Manager, Andrew Simms Group

“… I can confidently say we never looked back.”
Davide Punturiero, Dealer Principal, Tristram European

“… I’d encourage you to trial it and experience the difference.”
Tina Doherty, Group Operations Manager, Ingham Motor Group

“… we regret not making the switch sooner …”
Hayden Dahm, Group Sales Manager, Manukau Toyota Group

BEST OF THE REST

// NZ’s next Lexus RZ goes steer-by-wire: clearly some kind of yoke

Kiwi luxury-car buyers, your sci-fi dreams could come true next year. Lexus New Zealand’s updated RZ EV-SUV will offer steer-by-wire technology, with no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and axles.

// Nine models fight for top gong

Judges announce NZ Car of the Year category winners before countdown to crowning 2025’s overall winner.

IN OTHER NEWS

// New safety gradings added for Ford Transit, Toyota HiAce and Farizon SV

ANCAP has expanded its Commercial Van Safety Comparison programme with new safety gradings for the Ford Transit, Toyota HiAce and new battery-electric Farizon SV, giving fleet operators and buyers wider guidance on crash-avoidance performance.

// Custom Fleet partners with Carbn Group for sustainable mobility

Custom Fleet has announced a strategic partnership with Carbn Group to deliver sustainable mobility solutions across Australia and New Zealand.

// Lexus hits all-time high

Luxury marque sets record for annual sales and secures second spot in segment.

// Dealership makes move

Sales and service facility in Auckland offers “easy access, more space and the same friendly team”.

INTERNATIONAL EV NEWS

// Toyota’s $15,000 electric SUV is a hit in China

The bZ3X is off to a strong start as Toyota’s most affordable electric SUV, starting at around $15,000 in China.

ONE LINERS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

// Service Advisor, Hawkes Bay

Bayswater Vehicles Limited – A leading motor industry organisation representing several prestigious brands. Excellent, well organised work environment and competitive remuneration.

// Business Manager – Vehicle Finance, Hawkes Bay

Competitive remuneration with significant earning potential. A friendly, professional and supportive team environment. On-going training, career development and advancement opportunities.

OTHER STUFF

// NZ Car Dealers Private Facebook Group

Join a private community for car dealers to vent about the industry and joke about ‘interesting’ customers. A place to rant, debate, ask for help and help others.

// Advertise Here to reach the Industry

Reach a highly targeted group of automotive industry professionals. Dealer Principal’s, Sales Managers, Parts and Service Managers, Industry Suppliers, and all the people working with them that help influence buying decisions.

December 3rd, 20252025-12-02T16:01:14+13:00
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