Toyota reveal new RAV4, Corolla Cross, bZ4X Touring, Aygo X and Lexus ES
Toyota recently showcased a number of new vehicles to be launched in 2025 and beyond. Included in the reveal were the newly upgraded RAV4, the bZ4X Touring Sports, the Aygo X, Corolla Cross, as well as the Lexus ES, for which there was a sneak preview at Toyota's Kenshiki event earlier this year.
Many of the new models will come with hybrid and electric powertrains. The RAV4 PHEV will be capable of travelling up to 100 kms on pure electric power. The Corolla Cross overlaps the RAV4, with only slightly less space and a more estate-like shape.
For the first time, Toyota have introduced the GR Sport Trim, which adds a slightly sportier suspension set-up as well as extra spec.
The bZ4X Touring is an all-electric SUV with a WLTP range of over 500 km and we could see it in Ireland for the first half of 2026.
Finally, Lexus' new ES goes electric and has more space as it takes over from the LS as their top saloon in the current lineup.
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Irish Examiner
13-06-2025
- Irish Examiner
Best hybrid SUVs in Ireland: top models for low emissions and family practicality
The hybrid SUV market is booming right now and that's because they offer low running costs with practical interiors. Almost every car manufacturer has jumped onto the SUV bandwagon in recent years and the latest offerings are the best yet. A hybrid car has a petrol or diesel engine mated to an electric motor. The combustion engine provides power at higher speeds and to the battery when not in use, and then at slower speeds around town, the electric motor kicks in to enable the vehicle to coast using electricity. A plug-in hybrid car is similar to a regular hybrid with the addition of a battery pack on board which enables a range of pure electric driving over a certain distance. Hybrids are better for around-town use, while plug-in hybrids are better for company car drivers and those who cover a lot of miles. The cars on this list offer lots of practicality, and durability and would be a perfect family wagon. In this article, we've compiled a list of the best hybrid SUVs on sale in Ireland today. Kia Sportage Kia Sportage One of Ireland's best-selling car, the Kia Sportage can be equipped with an efficient hybrid powertrain. It comes with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to an electric motor that produces a total of 207bhp, while running costs should be low with Kia claiming the car can achieve up to 5.6l/100km and that CO2 emissions are just 128g/km. The Sportage looks good, is decent to drive and comes with lots of interior space, making it an ideal car for families. Plus, all new Sportages come with Kia's seven-year or 150,000km warranty as standard. Hyundai Tucson Hyundai Tucson Underneath its skin, the Hyundai Tucson is the same car as the Kia Sportage and features an efficient hybrid powertrain. Just like its Korean twin, the car is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to an electric motor that generates a total of 215bhp, can manage a claimed 5.2l/100km and pumps out 134g/km of CO2. The Tucson's exterior design features lots of curves and bold lines and there is a sporty N-Line trim level which gives you a few extra performance-oriented touches. Also, the space inside is vast with loads of rear seat space and plenty of cubby holes up front for all of your passengers' belongings. And, all new Tucsons come with Hyundai's five-year or 160,000km too. Lexus RX Lexus RX Lexus knows a thing or two when it comes to hybrid powertrains and its latest RX is one of the best on the market. To drive, it's quiet, has a premium-feeling interior and has a smooth ride – perfect for long journeys. Under the bonnet, there is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor that churns out 241bhp. Lexus claims that the car has a combined fuel consumption figure of up to 6.3l/100km and that it only produces 143g/km of CO2. Also, because it's a Lexus, it will come with the firm's Relax Warranty, which means that if you get your car serviced at a franchised dealer, you will get a year's warranty with the car up to 10 years or 185,000kms. Dacia Duster Dacia Duster If you're on a budget and want a hybrid SUV, then look no further than the Dacia Duster. The Duster has always carried value on its side and the latest model is by far the best iteration yet. The hybrid model features a 1.6-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor that produces 138bhp. Dacia claims that it has a combined litres per 100km figure of 4.9 and that CO2 emissions are a low 112g/km. It may be cheap, but that doesn't mean nasty, as the Duster represents excellent value for money and it feels grown-up and provides a comfortable ride. Toyota CH-R Toyota CH-R The Toyota CH-R is a good-looking and interesting alternative. With its coupe-esque styling, two-tone paintwork and flush door handles, it stands out from a rather mundane crowd. It comes with plenty of standard equipment and is decent to drive with precise handling and good body control around the corners. Powering the car, there is a choice of two powertrains. The former is a 1.8-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor that gives out 138bhp, while the latter is a punchier 2.0-litre unit with an electric motor that boosts power up to 194bhp. Plus, both models produce the same 111g/km of CO2 and Toyota claims that the CH-R in hybrid guise can manage between 4.9 and 4.8l/100kkm on the combined cycle. All Toyotas come with the firm's Relax Scheme warranty too, allowing for up to 10 years or 185,000kms of cover if you get the car serviced at a franchised dealer. Lexus LBX Lexus LBX If you want something a little bit smaller but still carry a premium badge, then the Lexus LBX could be the answer. It comes with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine mated to an electric motor that develops 134bhp. What's more, running costs should be very low as Lexus claims the LBX can manage 4.5l/100km and produces just 102g/km of CO2. To drive, it handles well and there is little body roll around the corners which makes the car one of the best-in-class for driving dynamics. Skoda Kodiaq Skoda Kodiaq PHEV If you're thinking of another alternative, then how about a plug-in hybrid? PHEVs are an even closer stepping stone to EV ownership as they can run up to a certain distance on pure electric power. One of the best on the market is the Skoda Kodiaq. It comes equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to an electric motor and a 25.7kWh battery pack that the manufacturer claims can take the car up to 120km on electric power. The Kodiaq is very practical with lots of interior space and has handy little cubby holes throughout the cabin. It's also good to drive and very refined, while the quality of the materials used throughout is one of the best-in-class.
The Irish Sun
11-06-2025
- The Irish Sun
The cheapest and most reliable small EV cars to buy, which challenge the much-awaited Toyota Urban Cruiser
WITH the incredible Toyota Urban Cruiser still months away from hitting UK roads, Brit drivers are looking for similar and affordable alternatives. A comprehensive list compiled by 8 The Toyota Urban Cruiser Credit: Supplied The Cruiser is Toyota's second EV, coming after the bZ4X which came out a few years ago. Toyota's latest electric car will be a great But in the meantime, if Kia EV3 8 The Kia EV3 Credit: Getty This compact car is one of the Cruiser's top competetitors. Pricing at just over £30,000, the Kia EV3 comes with a spacious interior, 375 miles of range and plenty of handy features . It is one of the best small EVs around, and boasts a cozy inside alongside its stylish design. It therefore makes a great option for customers who just can't wait any longer for the anticipated Cruiser. Skoda Elroq 8 Skoda Elroq Credit: PR Handout The Skoda Elroq is an easy-to-use vehicle equipped for family lifestyle. Most read in Motors It has a massive boot, perfect for carrying any family activity equipment, which is even bigger than the Cruiser's. The vehicle has a sensible design that is not too flashy, prioritising practicality over anything. It is also priced at over £30,000, making it a cheap alternative to the coveted Cruiser. Volvo EX30 8 Volvo EX30 Credit: Reuters This Scandinavian designed car is another great option for those who can't wait for the Cruiser. Volvo's EX30 is a small SUV that not only looks great, but also has an eyecatching interior which is cozy and comfy. It also comes with a safety kit for emergencies and is very practical in terms of its driving features. It does have a smaller boot and tight rear seats. But that doesn't take away from Volvo's smallest and most affordable SUV. There is also a dual-motor version for those who want a car with more of a 4WD feeling. It is also priced in the low £30,000s. Hyundai Inster 8 The Hyundai Inster Credit: Newspress This small-looking driver is bound to draw comparisons to Dr Who's TARDIS. Seemingly compact from the outside, the Inster's insides are way bigger than you might first think. Its interior space rivals much larger cars, despite its miniature size. The stylish car also has a clean aesthetic, and inside boasts clever rear seats which can fold flat to turn the car into a minivan. It uses cheap cabin plastics, but this can be overlooked due to its price tag. The budget EV can be picked up for less than £25,000, making it an incredible option as a cheap alternative to the Cruiser. Cupra Born 8 The Cupra Born This is one of the sportier cars on the list. So for drivers who are looking for this sort of design, look no further than the Cupra Born. Its a pretty car with an interior which is downright stunning to marvel at. The Born also boasts lots of space inside, and can drive up to 342 miles. Although it may not be that fun to drive as typical sports cars, the Born is a great budget EV for those who can't wait for the Cruiser. Prices start at around £34,000. MG4 8 MG4 This next car is an award-winning alternative. Having taken home the Carwow Car Of The Year, the MG4 is definitely an option to write home about. It boasts incredible value for money, and comes with a futuristic and funky exterior. It comes with loads of kit making it a practical option and family-friendly. The MG4 also prices at under £22,000 - making it a bargain and one of the cheapest EVs for its value. A more pleasant driving experience, impressive range and reassuring brake pedal also make this a great option. Renault Megan E-Tech 8 Renault Megan E-TECH EV Credit: Renault Ireland Last but not least is this budget electric driver with a Parisian flair. It is fitted with a cutting-edge Google-based infotainment system which is as easy to use as your own phone. And that's not all this car has going for it. The design features an amazing interior which is stylish and modern. Although it is slightly cramped in the back, the car's design makes this forgivable. Read more on the Irish Sun It starts at around £32,000, making it a great low-cost option. So this high-tech car makes a great option for those who want a state-of-the-art user interface in a budget and compact EV.
The Irish Sun
11-06-2025
- The Irish Sun
Top secret residents prepare to move into £8billion robot ‘city of the future' with driverless cars & AI-powered homes
RESIDENTS are preparing to move into Toyota's futuristic robot city, where everything is connected with driverless cars and AI-powered homes. While just the seed of an idea a decade ago, the Advertisement 6 Toyota, which builds robots as well as cars, has been building up the 175-acre site for he past five years Credit: Toyota UK 6 It is set to welcome its first 100 residents this autumn Credit: Toyota UK 6 The self-contained metropolis aims to be a beacon for future mobility, smart infrastructure and sustainable living Credit: Toyota UK And it is set to welcome its first 100 residents this autumn. Residents will have a few months of tranquility before the city opens to tourists - dubbed 'Weavers' - from 2026 "or later", according to Toyota. These individuals will mostly be Toyota staff and their families, before branching out to include "external inventors" and their loved ones. The total population is expected to reach around 2,000. Advertisement READ MORE ON FUTURE TECH At the base of the Mount Fuji volcano in Japan, the development will host a range of top-secret tests for new technologies, according to reports. While normal civilians will also call this robot city home, so shall Toyota's employees - who will be conducting experiments for some of the company's more hushed ideas. Toyota, which builds robots as well as cars, has been building up the 175-acre site for the past five years. The self-contained metropolis aims to be a beacon for future mobility, smart infrastructure and sustainable living. Advertisement Most read in Tech First announced at CES 2020, the Woven City is now just months away from accepting its first residents. The futuristic city will act as a "living laboratory" for the company to test its renewable and energy-efficient self-driving cars dubbed 'E-palettes'. Toyota's E-palettes, an autonomous electric vehicle platform initially developed for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, will be at the core of the project. Self-driving cars will be the main form of transport inside the Woven City, according to Toyota, supported by an underground network for autonomous logistics and goods delivery vehicles. Advertisement The autonomous vehicles feed into a wider network led by artificial intelligence (AI). AI robot nurse with creepy 'face' taking over hospital jobs as it patrols halls, delivers meds and tracks patient vitals "We are building a city where everything, people, buildings, vehicles, is connected through sensors and AI," Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota's Board of Directors, has said previously. "It's a unique opportunity to create a living digital operating system for urban life." Streets will be split into three types, pedestrian-only areas, roads for fast-moving traffic and streets for a mix of lower-speed vehicles. Advertisement Only zero-emissions motors will be allowed with special vehicles for the elderly and support for wheelchair users. Smart homes will be designed to incorporate robotics and AI to monitor health and manage energy use. It echoes The stunning new "smart homes" will run almost entirely on hydrogen, making the city as eco-friendly as possible. Advertisement Houses, made mostly from wood, will include in-home robotics to "assist with daily living" helping residents to be more independent, according to the company. 6 The autonomous vehicles feed into a wider network led by artificial intelligence (AI) Credit: Woven by Toyota 6 Smart homes will be designed to incorporate robotics and AI to monitor health and manage energy use Credit: Toyota UK 6 Houses, made mostly from wood, will include in-home robotics to "assist with daily living" helping residents to be more independent, according to the company Credit: Toyota UK Advertisement
