Feb 18

Kia Carnival wins Best Family Car under $80K

For five years in a row, the Kia Carnival has won another prestigious Drive Car of the Year trophy. Meet the 2024 Best Family Car under $80K

While average family sizes may be shrinking around the country, to those with a family that is anything but average, there’s no substitute for size, space and flexibility when it comes to family transportation.

Whether it’s an immediate family that stretches beyond the confines of a medium SUV, the need to include the extended family and bring the grandparents along for the ride, or a blended family that sees two families become one – boosting the numbers in the process – some families just need more.

It might be more space for bums on seats, more space for cargo as the little ones grow into big hobbies, or it might just be a need to have that space up your sleeve as teens hit their growth-spurt stage. Whatever the need, big family cars need to be more than just a bigger version of other cars on the road.

They need to be comfortable to help keep the peace on longer trips. They need to be adaptable and carry people and cargo with equal ease. They need to be safe, with your most precious cargo on board, but there’s no reason they shouldn’t also offer easy to handle dynamics for the driver too.

With all of that in mind, the Drive Car of the Year 2024 judges have a long list of requirements in their search for the Best Family Car under $80,000 and three strong competitors in the LDV Mifa, Mazda CX-90, and Kia Carnival.

Winner: Kia Carnival

Drive’s pick: Kia Carnival SLi diesel from $59,780 MSRP

Kia Carnival key facts:

  • Priced from $47,480 to $67,580
  • 7-year warranty
  • 6.5-9.6L/100km consumption (claimed)

Why the Kia Carnival won:

  • Unbeatably versatile interior space
  • Peace of mind from 7-year warranty
  • Priced with family budgets in mind

Kia’s Carnival has set the benchmark for ultimate family motoring once again in 2024, backing up its 2023 win.

While the evolution of the Drive Car of the Year awards has seen this category expand from ‘best people mover’ to a broader ‘best car for families’ title over the years, the fundamentals haven’t changed, and the Carnival meets the needs of Australian families in a way no rival can match.

With a starting price from as low as $47,480 plus on-road costs, the eight-seat Carnival remains a budget-friendly choice and doesn’t compromise on flexibility for the price. Even the entry-level model provides configurable full-size seating in all three rows, and a huge amount of cargo space.

No matter which seat you claim, the Carnival’s tall dimensions and long wheelbase ensure there’s room for adults in all three rows or enough space to make installing child seats a much, much easier process.

With 627 litres of cargo space behind the third row, or 2785 litres to the second row, the Carnival offers more cargo space than the other cars in its DCOTY segment. All the more versatile to fill in as a makeshift van when required.

The available choice of a 216kW petrol V6 or 148kW four-cylinder turbo diesel engine offers buyers the option of smooth and powerful acceleration or a strong but frugal cruising engine in all grades, depending on what best fits your needs.

The all-important interior is where you’ll find the most to explore. From second-row seats that are individually adjustable to the availability of five ISOFIX child seat mounts, the Carnival can grow with your family and stay practical no matter what stage your brood is at.

Sliding side doors that don’t need much space to open, a cavernously deep boot, seats that are easy to fold and stow, and a range of practical storage nooks up front aren’t features you might prioritise, but they soon become hard to live without once you get familiar with all the Carnival offers.

Kia also backs its Australian range with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, making it one of the best-supported new cars in Australia. Capped price servicing also adds some surety to the ownership journey, with the ability to see ahead of time how service costs will stack up (expect $2607 over the first five years for the diesel and $2491 for the petrol).

The final crowning piece of the puzzle is a five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2021 that provides impressive levels of protection for adults and children, along with driver-assist systems that may keep you out of harm’s way in the first place.

As the entire Carnival range fits in under the category’s $80,000 price cap, there’s no bad choice in the range, but the judging panel leans towards the well-equipped but still cost-mindful Carnival SLi diesel.

The top-spec Platinum model is almost limo-like with some of its appointments and is just about unequalled as a hotel shuttle. For real day-to-day family use, though, the SLi still pampers with leather trim, a powered driver’s seat, power sliding doors and tailgate, three-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and a slew of family-friendly features without breaking the bank.

Editor’s note: Since judging, Kia has paused orders of V6 models. This article retains info on V6 models as it relates to stock in dealers.

Kia Carnival wins Best Family Car under $80K
Kia Carnival wins Best Family Car under $80K
Feb 18

Toyota Kluger wins Best Large SUV under $80K

Car Of The Year

The popular Toyota Kluger holds on to its Drive Car of the Year Best Large SUV under $80K title for the third year running

When your family starts to outgrow your once spacious and practical medium-sized SUV it’s time for a family vehicle of grander proportions. Maybe the kids aren’t so small any more, or another one’s on the way, or perhaps you find yourself regularly fulfilling the role of taxi driver for your offspring’s social set; when you need to upgrade to a supersized family chariot, Drive has the answer.

In this automotive realm, supremacy is defined by space, comfort, and practicality. A trifecta of seating rows is an advantage, complemented by an array of storage compartments, cupholders, and power outlets – the holy trinity of family-friendly features.

For a vehicle of this calibre, practicality extends beyond its spacious interior. Considerations for running costs and overall value rise in importance along with the weekly grocery bill.

Large SUVs have garnered significant favour among Australian buyers, with Toyota’s enduring LandCruiser Prado currently dominating sales. Despite its popularity, it was not included in Drive Car of the Year this year because it has not changed significantly since it last competed and lost. The same fate befalls the also popular Ford Everest and Nissan Pathfinder, two worthy cars that tried – and also failed – to dethrone the current champ, the Toyota Kluger last year.

This year, the Toyota Kluger faced off against two newcomers – the GWM Tank 300 and the Mazda CX-90 – and won, making it three in a row for the perennial family favourite, proving that age has not wearied it one bit.

Winner: Toyota Kluger

Drive’s pick: Toyota Kluger GXL Hybrid AWD from $67,810 MSRP

Toyota Kluger key facts:

  • Priced from $51,790 to $80,230 (range)
  • 5-year warranty
  • 5.6-8.7L/100km consumption (claimed)

Why the Toyota Kluger won:

  • Fuel-efficient hybrid options for all budgets
  • Spacious and practical interior
  • Well-priced for the equipment and safety features

Securing the Drive Car of the Year Best Large SUV Under $80K title for the third time is no small feat, and Toyota’s Kluger has not only defended its crown but has done so in the face of fresh competition and updates across the field.

Toyota’s Kluger is renowned for being one of the most cost-effective and practical large SUVs on the market, a crucial attribute as petrol prices spiral ever upwards. Its economical profile seamlessly aligns with a comfortable and pragmatic design, ticking all the right boxes for everyday use.

The Kluger spans nearly five metres in length so it generously caters to occupants in the first two rows with ample space and amenities, while the third row, although accommodating for adults, leans toward shorter humans or shorter journeys.

Toyota’s powertrain lineup embraces a new entrant this year in the 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder which replaces the old V6 and gives the Kluger a much-needed boost in performance. Even so, the Kluger’s petrol-electric hybrid is the powertrain to have.

This hybrid configuration, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, front and rear electric motors, and a small battery pack, offers a smooth and seamless driving experience through the CVT automatic gearbox. Real-world fuel consumption impressively hovers at just 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres.

A noteworthy advantage of the Kluger is the availability of the fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain across its entire range. This makes the $58,290 Kluger GX hybrid a frugal and affordable option for families being relentlessly squeezed by interest rate rises. If you’ve somehow retained the financial ability to look higher into the Kluger range and still keep up with school fees and mortgage payments, then the $67,810 Kluger GXL Hybrid is the sweet spot.

For that extra $9520, the Kluger GXL Hybrid brings a raft of comfort, convenience and technology enhancements that make everyday family motoring less stressful. These include roof rails and a power tailgate outside, while inside, the GXL adds power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, more durable synthetic leather trim instead of fabric, and a larger 12.3-inch colour touchscreen with satellite navigation.

While the Kluger shades all rivals for overall excellence, there are a couple of specific areas where it is not the class leader. Third-row seating space is one example. The Kluger is capable of housing adults back here for short journeys, or shorter humans on longer journeys, but it doesn’t match the cavernous comfort of the Nissan Pathfinder or the Hyundai Palisade.

Toyota’s infotainment system hasn’t been overly impressive in the past, but a 2023 upgrade is a dramatic improvement on previous iterations. The large 12.3-inch touchscreen with colour graphics brings the Kluger in line with some of its more modern rivals, offering wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, plus Android Auto through a wired connection.

While there might be more budget-friendly entry points into seven-seat ownership, especially with the Kluger Grande at the top end, the Kluger’s consecutive wins underscore its effectiveness and purpose-fit. The hybrid powertrain is its trump card, further cementing the Kluger’s status as a standout choice in the competitive family truckster field.

Feb 18

Lexus NX wins Best Medium SUV under $80K

Car Of The Year

The 2024 Drive Car of the Year Best Medium SUV under $80K is the hybrid Lexus NX350H

If you thought this segment was hotly contested last year, it became scorching once we added electric cars to the mix. Spending a bit more money in the medium SUV segment opens up a buyer’s world to electrified and hybridised options, and pits luxe-leaning mass-market brands against major premium players. It’s truly anyone’s game.

To recap the criteria, this car has to “do everything for most people”, with design, practicality, tech and safety all high on the buyer priority list. At last year’s awards, this category was split into two – with the Nissan X-Trail winning Best Medium SUV thanks to its good fuel economy, practical cabin and slick powertrain, while the Jaguar F-Pace won Best Luxury Medium SUV thanks to its large boot, class-leading infotainment and upmarket design.

The Jaguar F-Pace was priced out of this category this year, but the Nissan X-Trail and its new e-Power hybrid variant once again proved stiff competition against the Lexus NX and the Tesla Model Y. The NX was a finalist in last year’s Best Luxury Medium SUV category

The Model Y was also a head-turner, having narrowly missed out on winning last year’s Best EV $70,000-$120,000 category – losing to the Kia EV6 by just one vote. Interestingly, it’s not the first time the Lexus NX has been pitted against the Model Y – the Lexus regularly ranks as the second best-seller in its segment, just behind the Tesla.

The Lexus, Nissan and Tesla all offer capacious interiors, on-the-road polish, premium finishes and proactive safety. But which medium SUV had the edge over the competition thanks to its supreme versatility, litany of options under the price point and bang-for-buck equipment levels?

Winner: Lexus NX

Drive’s pick: Lexus NX350h from $69,050 MSRP

Lexus NX key facts:

  • Priced from $62,275 to $90,948 (range)
  • 5 year warranty
  • 1.3L/100km to 8.1L/100km consumption (claimed)

Why the Lexus NX won:

  • Elevated ownership experience
  • Ultra-refined on the road and in the cabin
  • Economical hybrid options

This category was created to serve both young families and active urbanites seeking practicality with a premium touch – and the Lexus NX nails that brief and then some.

The new-generation NX landed in 2022, improving upon an already impressive offering by enhancing the driver experience, boosting the cabin space, overhauling the infotainment system and packing the car full of seriously impressive technology.

Under this category’s price threshold, you can choose from a two-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive NX with petrol or hybrid power and a litany of standard features. Our pick of the bunch is the hybrid NX350h, with a 2.5-litre petrol engine continuously variable transmission, plus integrated electric assistance offering combined outputs of 179kW and 239Nm.

If you have $80,000 to spend you can choose from a high-grade front-wheel-drive NX350h Sport Luxury or F Sport, or a more affordable all-wheel-drive NX350h Luxury. Both will check crucial boxes for safety, infotainment and comfort features, and regardless of whether you opt for the entry-level Luxury trim or the top-of-the-line F Sport, you’ll find the cabin has a distinctly upmarket feel.

Even better, Lexus’s hybrid tech and famed refinement are a match made in heaven. Not only is the NX’s hybrid system a surefire fuel and emissions saver (think 5-6L/100km on a combined cycle), it has the added benefit of smooth, electric power at city speeds that only serves to enhance the sleek behind-the-wheel experience. The cabin is also exceedingly quiet and perfectly suited for long drives with sleeping kids in the back.

While we do have a few small bugbears with the NX – the gear shifter can be frustrating during quick manoeuvring and the run-flat tyres can make for a busy ride on certain surfaces – the level of craftsmanship in the cabin is to be applauded, particularly when it all manages to sneak in under the $80,000 price point.

On even the entry-level NX250, you’ll receive standard equipment like heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, speed-sign recognition, active cruise control with lane-trace, and safe-exit assist, which is a particularly handy feature for families with young kids.

What really seals the deal on the NX, however, is Lexus’ commitment to the ownership experience. The NX is offered with relatively affordable capped-price servicing compared to some of its premium rivals ($495 a year for the first three years),and membership to Lexus’ Encore ownership program, which includes a complimentary loan car when your car is serviced, a complimentary wash and vacuum at every service and 24-hour roadside.

Arguably the most visually striking car in our medium SUV line-up, the Lexus NX is a capable, practical family car that still allows its owner to feel special, right from the front-seat experience through to the service centre.

Feb 18

Honda CR-V Crowned Best Medium SUV Under $50K for 2024

Car of the Year

The Honda CR-V has made a triumphant return, claiming the prestigious title of Best Medium SUV under $50K in the 2024 Drive Car of the Year awards. This category is crucial for Australian buyers, who favor medium SUVs more than any other vehicle type, with the average new car transaction exceeding $50,000.

The Honda CR-V stood out in a fiercely competitive field by offering a perfect blend of value, advanced technology, safety, and ample space, all essential for modern family life.

Competitive Landscape

Last year, the Nissan X-Trail took the crown, edging out the Kia Sportage, which had previously unseated the Toyota RAV4 in 2022. This year, the stakes were even higher with a new price cap of $50,000, emphasizing the importance of value for money in this category.

The Honda CR-V faced tough competition from the Nissan X-Trail and another Honda model, the ZR-V, in this closely contested segment.

Why the Honda CR-V Won

Affordability and Value: Despite an $8,600 increase in its entry price, the new Honda CR-V delivers exceptional value. It offers more space, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features compared to its predecessor, making it a top choice for families.

Well-Equipped and Cost-Effective: The CR-V VTi L model, priced at $48,800, includes premium features like 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed seats, and a hands-free power tailgate. The servicing costs are also among the lowest in the industry, at $199 annually or every 10,000km, adding to its overall value proposition.

Spacious and Comfortable: The larger dimensions of the new CR-V translate to a more spacious and stylish interior. The VTi L offers a roomy cabin with a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto, ensuring a comfortable and connected driving experience.

Performance and Safety

Engine and Driving Experience: The 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission, delivers smooth and ample performance. The CR-V’s suspension strikes a balance between comfort and control, making it a reliable companion for both city and highway driving.

Safety Features: All CR-V models come equipped with 11 airbags and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the CR-V is yet to be tested by ANCAP, the safety assessment program.

Future Prospects

Hybrid Technology: While the CR-V offers a hybrid version, it is only available in the top-tier e

RS model, priced at $59,990, exceeding the $50K limit of this category. This hybrid model promises better fuel economy and refined performance, highlighting the potential for more accessible hybrid options in the future.

Additional Features: Although the CR-V lacks some luxury features found in competitors, such as a 360-degree camera or ventilated front seats, its overall package still makes it a standout choice. Future updates may include these enhancements to keep up with the competition.

In conclusion, the Honda CR-V VTi L stands out as a versatile, value-packed, and family-friendly SUV, deserving of its title as the Best Medium SUV under $50K for 2024. Its blend of affordability, advanced features, and spacious design makes it an excellent choice for Australian families.

Feb 18

Volvo XC40 Triumphs as Best Small SUV Under $80K for 2024

A Consistent Winner

For four consecutive years, the Volvo XC40 has captured the title of the 2024 Drive Car of the Year for Best Small SUV under $80K. This achievement underscores the XC40’s exceptional performance in a segment where the competition is fierce, particularly among Australian buyers who seek a blend of affordability and luxury.

Why the XC40 Stands Out

The XC40 excels by offering a rich array of features in a compact package, making it a versatile choice for various driving needs. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on country drives, this SUV delivers a rewarding experience that consistently meets rising consumer expectations for performance, luxury, and technology.

Competition and Consistency

Facing strong contenders such as the Volkswagen T-Roc and BMW X1, the XC40’s blend of premium features and build quality sets it apart. Its combination of comfort, performance, and advanced technology makes it a standout choice, with its high-quality cabin and balanced chassis earning praise from industry experts.

An Impressive Legacy

With its fourth win, the XC40’s legacy as a leading small SUV is firmly established. Its continuous success highlights Volvo’s commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles that meet and exceed the demands of modern drivers, making it a top choice in its segment.

Key Features and Practicality

Priced between $54,990 and $85,990, the XC40 offers excellent value with features such as LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a high-quality cabin. Its practical design includes ample cargo space and impressive towing capacity, ensuring it meets a wide range of needs for families and individuals alike.

Future Prospects

As Volvo moves towards an all-electric future, the XC40 remains a compelling choice for those seeking a petrol option with solid performance and efficiency. Its refined design and advanced features ensure it continues to be a top contender in the competitive small SUV market.

By incorporating these updates and focusing on the XC40’s unique strengths, the content not only maintains originality but also provides readers with engaging and informative insights about this award-winning vehicle.

Feb 18

Hyundai Kona Named Best Small SUV Under $50K for 2024

The Rise of Small SUVs

The landscape of compact SUVs has never been more vibrant, with the 2024 Drive Car of the Year Award for Best Small SUV under $50K highlighting the Hyundai Kona as a standout choice. As the small SUV segment continues to evolve, this category offers unprecedented value and innovation, benefiting consumers with increasingly advanced and affordable options.

This year’s competition included formidable contenders such as the refreshed Kia Seltos and the Nissan Qashqai, the previous year’s champion. However, the Hyundai Kona’s combination of cutting-edge features, a stylish design, and practical performance set it apart from its rivals, securing its position as the best choice under $50K.

Hyundai Kona: A Comprehensive Overview

The 2024 Hyundai Kona impressed judges with its remarkable blend of technology and comfort. The model’s sleek, futuristic design is complemented by a significant increase in standard features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and a host of safety technologies.

Notably, the Kona offers a range of powertrains to suit various needs, from the efficient hybrid version to a more dynamic turbocharged engine. With a competitive price and extensive feature list, the Kona delivers exceptional value, making it a top pick for those seeking a reliable and stylish small SUV.

Feb 18

Volkswagen Golf Crowned Best Urban Car Under $50K for 2024

The 2024 Drive Car of the Year: Best Urban Car Under $50K

The 2024 Drive Car of the Year award for the Best Urban Car under $50K has been claimed by the Volkswagen Golf, making it a standout in Drive Car of the Year history. Despite the growing popularity of large SUVs and dual-cab utes, compact urban cars continue to attract buyers looking for a balance of technology, space, efficiency, and style. This year’s competition featured a diverse range of vehicles, from rugged city SUVs to sleek electric hatchbacks, highlighting the expanding options in the urban car category.

The Competitive Landscape

In a field of over 40 contenders, the Volkswagen Golf stood out against competitors such as the MG 4 and BYD Dolphin, both of which are electric hatchbacks. The Golf, already a two-time winner of the Drive Car of the Year Best Small Car award, competed strongly with these finalists, all of which were evaluated for their compact city-friendly proportions, user-friendliness, and overall value. The $50,000 price bracket demanded a vehicle that excelled in driving experience, comfort, and style, with the Golf meeting these criteria exceptionally well.

Why the Volkswagen Golf Won

The Volkswagen Golf emerged victorious thanks to its smooth and refined driving experience, stylish and comfortable cabin, and comprehensive safety features. Measuring just over 4.2 meters long, the Golf offers a perfect balance of size for urban environments—spacious enough for occasional trips but compact enough for city streets. With a well-designed interior that accommodates both passengers and cargo comfortably, the Golf’s practicality and comfort, combined with its impressive technology and safety offerings, made it the top choice for the Best Urban Car under $50K award.

Key Features and Improvements

Priced from $39,190, the Golf offers a range of features including twin 10.25-inch interior screens, tri-zone air conditioning, and advanced safety technology, making it a strong value for its price. While it remains one of the more expensive options in its category for maintenance, its efficiency with a claimed fuel consumption of 5.8L/100km stands out. Volkswagen’s commitment to safety, with features like the new centre airbag, and ongoing updates promise continued excellence in urban driving.

In summary, the Volkswagen Golf’s blend of refinement, comfort, and value solidifies its place as the premier urban car under $50K for 2024. Its ability to meet the diverse needs of urban drivers, along with its strong performance and practical features, ensures that it remains a top choice in the competitive compact car market.

Feb 18

Four taken to hospital after SUV slams into home in Rexdale

Two people have been taken to hospital after an SUV crashed into a home in north Etobicoke.

Fire crews were called to the area of Albion Road and Arcot Boulevard just before 5 p.m. Sunday following reports a vehicle had crashed into a home.

Police reported two pedestrians had been struck by the SUV and that one of them was trapped under the vehicle. They have been transported to a nearby hospital, one in life-threatening condition.

Police add that the driver of the SUV and a passenger have also been taken to hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

Feb 18

Deadly Pedestrian Collision on Buckner Boulevard: Dallas Police Report

Officials have confirmed the death of a woman struck by two SUVs while attempting to cross Buckner Boulevard in Dallas on Friday evening. The incident took place around 7:30 p.m. near the intersection with John West Road, and despite the efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene, according to NBC 5 DFW.

The accident happened as the woman tried to cross the road outside a crosswalk, stepping off the curb near a median strip. Initially, she was hit by one SUV and then, tragically, was struck again by another vehicle. Both drivers remained at the location and provided assistance to law enforcement.

This tragic accident highlights the pressing issue of pedestrian safety. In the previous year, Dallas reported 661 pedestrian injuries and 69 fatalities, representing a 4.2% increase in such incidents from the year before, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. To improve safety, the City of Dallas has earmarked $27 million for road and pedestrian safety upgrades, with funding coming from a $21.8 million federal grant and an additional $5.25 million from city funds. City Manager T.C. Broadnax has expressed strong support for these initiatives, emphasizing their potential to greatly enhance safety for the community.

Feb 18

Truck Driver and Veteran Saves Choking Woman’s Life

Jeff Hanus is an American hero. He may deny it, but the truth is that this hardworking renaissance man’s quick thinking saved an Illinois woman’s life.

Hanus is a cement truck driver. In late 2023, he was waiting at a highway job site on I-55, so he took the opportunity to kick back, chew on a snack, and listen to some classical Chinese violin. (Did I mention that he is a complete renaissance man?)

Well, his well-earned break was interrupted when an SUV pulled out of oncoming traffic and directly up to the front of Hanus’ big rig. A woman jumped out and began gesturing wildly. Hanus didn’t get mad, but calmly studied her and realized that she had both her hands on her throat in the international symbol for “I’m choking.”

The woman, near death, had chosen the right truck. As a former Army infantryman, Hanus also has medical training. (Again, what can’t this guy do?) He leapt out of his truck, ran to the woman, and performed the Heimlich maneuver. Two thrusts of his fists and she coughed up the fast food that had nearly killed her.

She looked a bit unsteady, so Hanus escorted her back to her car. He found two terrified toddlers in the back seat. (Cue slow clap).

When interviewers called Hanus a hero he dismissed them. “I was in the right place at the right time, and I did what, in my opinion, most people would have done.” They rightfully pressed the subject. So the trucker/veteran/violin aficionado/philosopher offered a bit of wisdom we could all benefit from:

“There’s a Native American saying: it is not the path that we walk, it is how many lives we touch along the way.”

Jeff Hanus

After the story made the news, the Chicago Bulls reached out to gift Hanus and his family courtside tickets. I’d say that’s the least Illinois can do for this inspiring hero.