At this year’s Fieldays, Inchcape invited the AA to showcase three vehicle debuts: the all-new Subaru Forester, the LDV Terron 9 ute, and the concept KGM Torres Hybrid SUV.
Each vehicle is specifically designed for New Zealand drivers, focusing on practicality and rugged performance.
Subaru officially unveiled its sixth-generation Forester at the Fieldays. Renowned for its sturdiness and practicality, Subaru claims the new version is “stronger, smarter, and more capable than ever.”
The new version includes a familiar yet refined 2.5-litre petrol engine (136kW/247Nm) as well as a new 2.5-litre boxer petrol-hybrid option (121kW/212Nm). Both will be attached to a CVT gearbox and Subaru’s fabled symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
The hybrid variant uses Subaru’s “strong hybrid” technology and pairs the petrol engine with an 88kW electric motor and a 1.1kW battery system, giving the hybrid option a range of over 1,000km per tank (claimed).
The towing capability is better in the non-hybrid option, standing at 1,800kg for the petrol variant and 1,200kg for the hybrid.
There are three trim levels – Forester, Sport (pictured) and Touring – across both powertrains, giving a total of six variants. Standard equipment includes a sleek 11.6” portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Subaru’s latest suite of safety features.
Some key features reserved for higher trims are water-repellent upholstery, satellite navigation, and a panoramic sunroof.
Demand for the new Forester is already outpacing supply, with Subaru reportedly holding 15,000 models for its domestic market in Japan, which is more than the factory's current production capacity. Local distributor Inchcape says buyers should contact the nearest Subaru dealer as soon as possible to secure a vehicle from New Zealand’s limited allocation.
Pricing starts at $49,990 for the base petrol model and $52,990 for the hybrid equivalent. While the flagship Touring models are priced at $56,990 and $60,990, respectively.
The LDV Terron 9 touched down in New Zealand and has the potential to be a strong new contender in the ute segment. Inchcape New Zealand's general manager, Kym Mellow, describes it as “the ultimate reinforcement of LDV’s brand DNA, in that it aims to be dependable, durable and value packed with up to 1100kg payload and exceptional off-road capability.”
Priced from $59,990, the Terron 9 is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine delivering 163kW and 520Nm of torque. With a braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a payload of up to 1,100 kg, these figures place it firmly in competition with heavyweights like the Ford Ranger.
The single-trim Elite spec comes equipped with an array of safety features, including Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and a 360-degree camera, as standard. The Terron 9 has been designed with a strong focus on technology and features a dual 12.3" infotainment screen and instrument cluster, keyless entry and start, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Outside, the Terron 9 proudly showcases its toughness, boasting a bold grille, sturdy bumpers, LED headlights, and a squared-off design. A spray-on tub liner and four tie-down points make it practical for tradies, fleet buyers, and adventurous families.
With full-time four-wheel drive and multiple terrain modes, LDV’s latest ute seems prepared to handle tough conditions and accomplish any task, anywhere.
KGM (who you may know as SsangYong) is testing the waters on whether New Zealanders are ready for a hybrid option for its mid-sized crossover SUV. Unveiled as a concept model, the hybrid SUV made its New Zealand debut at the Fieldays, giving visitors a close-up look at what could be the brand’s answer to the popular hybrid segment.
Inchcape New Zealand's general manager, Kym Mellow, says “this is a great opportunity to introduce hybrid into the TORRES family and show where KGM is heading”.
From a design standpoint, the Torres Hybrid makes a strong impression. Not too dissimilar from the current model, which includes cues from iconic off-road brands like Jeep and Land Rover, the SUV combines muscular proportions with aggressive detailing and a squared-off stance to give it an impressive presence.
Bright red brake callipers will hopefully inject a touch of sportiness and might suggest the hybrid version won’t just be about fuel savings.
While full specifications are still under wraps, KGM suggests that the hybrid setup will likely pair a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and dedicated hybrid transmission. Regenerative braking is expected to be part of the package, further enhancing its eco credentials.
It’s still early days for the Torres Hybrid in New Zealand, but judging by the interest at the Fieldays, KGM could be onto something. If you're curious about what this hybrid SUV offers, you can register your interest at KGM’s website here: KGM Torres Hybrid
