Automotive news

• 2026 Audi RS5 to punch out 470kW/825Nm thanks to plug-in hybrid powertrain

  19-02-2026 14:01 via drive.com.au
  Adding electrification has boosted outputs of the latest Audi RS5, available in Avant and sedan forms, by 139kW/225Nm.
  Audi RS5 Avante and Sedan
  Audi has followed Mercedes-AMG and BMW M with its new RS5 sports car by shifting to a performance plug-in hybrid model.However, the 2026 Audi RS5 – available Avant wagon form that replaces the RS4, and as a four-door sedan – retains the same 2.9-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 as before, but tuned from 331kW to 375kW.To lift performance of the in
  
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• Honda secures more Civic Type R stock, but price increased

  19-02-2026 05:13 via drive.com.au
  Honda’s sold-out hot hatch gets another stock drop, but the latest Civic Type R is now pricier than ever at $85,500 drive-away.Honda Australia has reopened order books for its quick-selling Civic Type R hot hatch, but the latest stock drop incurs a price increase and will – again – be severely limited in number.Published on Honda Australia’s website, the Civic Type R is now positioned at $85,500 drive-away – a $6500 increase over the price the last time order books
  
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• Navigating the 2026 Market: Why Data is Your Best Sales Tool

  19-02-2026 02:46 via autotalk.co.nz
  Welcome to 2026! As we kick off the new year, the automotive landscape is showing some very promising signs of life. Recent data reveals a significant surge in vehicle arrivals, with December seeing a total of 18,512 units hitting our ports—a healthy jump from the 15,818 units recorded in November. Alongside this supply boost, consumer […]
  The post Navigating the 2026 Market: Why Data is Your Best Sales Tool appeared first on Autotalk.
  
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• Dongfeng expands NZ dealer network

  19-02-2026 01:15 via autotalk.co.nz
  Chinese electric vehicle brand Dongfeng plans to expand its New Zealand dealer network to seven retail locations by the end of this month, as it rolls out two new models locally. The brand is currently sold through Armstrong’s dealerships in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. New retail partners Takanini Auto Group, Auckland Auto Group in Albany, […]
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• Chinese regulations to tackle touchscreen interfaces and move back to physical controls

  19-02-2026 01:08 via drive.com.au
  Under proposed regulation changes, cars will require physical buttons and controls for key functions, putting an end to reliance on touchscreens and voice commands.The growing trend for touchscreen controls as the centre for operations on new vehicles is set to come to an end.A new regulatory framework established by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) would require physical controls for the operation of certain vehicle functions.The move comes after the MIIT cha
  
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• 2026 Skoda Epiq spied almost uncamouflaged, key details confirmed

  19-02-2026 00:03 via drive.com.au
  The Czech manufacturer has released more details on its new Epiq electric SUV, which is expected to be affordably positioned.Skoda’s new Epiq, the brand’s next production electric vehicle (EV), is nearing a showroom arrival after being spied testing with almost no camouflage.The Czech brand is promising the Epiq will be priced comparably to the similarly sized petrol-powered Kamiq SUV, while more information that has surfaced on the EV include an expected 430km driving range and DC f
  
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