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.
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.
- DrivenCarGuide says Skoda reboots classic 100 sedan with new concept. So who’s uncool now?
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.
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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
- The six-figure classics heading to auction at the upcoming Ayrburn Classic
- Hyundai Motor Group expands EV energy services with V2G and V2H rollout
- Aston Martin Works restores £900 DB5 to its former glory
- Entry-level Kia EV2 to be unveiled early 2026
- Webb’s to auction Paris-to-Saint-Tropez classic car rally package for women -with a twist
- Toyota to reveal V8-powered GR GT supercar this week!
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