Christmas Approaches: A Look Back at the Year in Automotive Innovation

As the holiday season draws near, it’s time to reflect on a notable year in the Australian automotive landscape. The past twelve months have seen a slew of significant new model introductions, alongside several anticipated launches that encountered delays.

Notably, 2024 ushered in various new automotive brands to the Australian market, generating unprecedented interest in new model evaluations. In fact, CarExpert delivered nearly 500 car reviews this year, revealing the top five most-read assessments as we approach the year’s end.

For those in the market for a new vehicle, CarExpert has a plethora of enticing deals available now. Empower yourself by taking advantage of expert insights to secure an exceptional offer. Explore your options today.


2024 Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid Review

It comes as no surprise that the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid claims the top spot in our most-viewed reviews. This popular mid-sized SUV has cemented its status as Australia’s best-selling vehicle in 2024, with just over a week remaining in the year.

With improved supply chains, the RAV4 is poised to dethrone the Ford Ranger as the country’s favorite new car. A model that once had waitlists extending beyond three years can now be acquired with a wait time of approximately six months.

James Wong recently examined the flagship Edge Hybrid AWD, which is listed at $58,360 before additional costs. While he commended Toyota for reducing wait times, he also highlighted competitors, including the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Kia Sportage Hybrid, and Honda CR-V e:HEV.

[Read the full review here.]

Considering a Toyota RAV4? Connect with a trusted CarExpert dealer here.

[Explore everything Toyota RAV4 here.]


2024 Honda HR-V Review

Honda’s latest generation has raised the bar for quality, and the HR-V emerged as our second most popular review of the year.

William Stopford evaluated the HR-V e:HEV L, then Honda’s most affordable hybrid model, which has since been accompanied by a newly priced HR-V eHEV X at $39,900 drive-away. His review praised its quiet performance and refined hybrid powertrain, although he noted challenges when navigating steep inclines and that the HR-V accommodates only four passengers in Australia.

[Read the full review here.]

Interested in a Honda HR-V? Reach out to a CarExpert dealer here.

[Explore everything Honda HR-V here.]


2024 Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series Review

The Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series continues to captivate attention, even three years post-launch.

Scott Collie reviewed the nearly top-spec LandCruiser 300 GR Sport, aimed at off-road enthusiasts, with a starting price of $144,791 before on-road expenses. An announcement of upcoming updates set for June 2025 promises enhancements in safety and technology.

Scott highlighted the LandCruiser 300 GR Sport as a formidable full-size off-road SUV, praising its twin-turbo diesel V6 engine, a worthy successor to the traditional V8. However, he critiqued the interior technology as lacking, especially considering the vehicle’s premium price tag.

[Read the full review here.]

Considering a Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series? Connect with a trusted dealer here.

[Explore everything Toyota LandCruiser here.]


2025 Honda CR-V Review

Honda’s largest SUV caught the attention of readers, landing as our fourth most-read review.

William Stopford assessed the top-spec CR-V e:HEV RS, available for $60,400 drive-away. As the sole hybrid option in the lineup, it features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol-electric engine producing 135kW and 335Nm of torque, with a claimed fuel efficiency of 5.5L/100km.

While acknowledging its cost, William noted the new-generation CR-V offers a more engaging driving experience than the RAV4 Hybrid, alongside superior ride quality and an impressively refined interior with ample storage.

[Read the full review here.]

Looking to buy a Honda CR-V? Contact a trusted dealer here.

[Explore everything Honda CR-V here.]


2024 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 Review

Breaking the dominance of Japanese brands, the Ford Ranger has solidified its place in Australia’s automotive market.

In January, Matt Campbell reviewed the Ranger Wildtrak V6, which starts at $74,840 before on-road costs. He described the Australian-developed diesel V6-powered 4×4 as a "damn-near perfect" family dual-cab ute, highlighting its robust engine, dynamic driving capabilities, and a cabin equipped with advanced safety and multimedia features.

[Read the full review here.]

Interested in a Ford Ranger? Connect with a trusted CarExpert dealer here.

[Explore everything Ford Ranger here.]

Source:www.carexpert.com.au