Alright, let’s dive into today's Full Brief. Starting off with the Hot Topics of the day...Subaru’s limited edition BRZ Tsubasa has landed in New Zealand, but here’s the catch – all ten units were pre-sold even before hitting our shores.Yeah, and it’s barely any different from the usual BRZ tS, same STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and that 2.4-litre flat-four engine. Apparently, Subaru might try to bring in another special edition later this year.Here’s hoping, but you’ve gotta wonder if it’s just a collector’s thing at this point.Next up, CarPlay Ultra has debuted in the Aston Martin DBX 707, and it’s a game-changer for in-car tech.Absolutely. It goes way beyond basic phone mirroring – now you’re getting a fully integrated digital experience that combines live car data, real-time fuel levels, and even native car features right inside Apple’s interface. It’s a big leap forward for automotive software.Totally. And with manufacturers lining up to implement this, it could redefine driver-vehicle interaction.Today’s podcast is sponsored by Autocheck. Stop paying too much for vehicle checks. Get your comprehensive vehicle reports for less! Visit Autocheck.co.nz, your trusted vehicle data provider.Moving on. Now the Best of the Rest for the day...A bit of good news, Shaun Moses, a key figure in Auckland’s automotive scene, has been found after going missing for a few days. Seems like the story had a happy ending.Alright, in other news today...The JAC T9 shattered South Africa’s commercial vehicle endurance record by clocking over 4,000 kilometers in 24 hours. That’s about 170 kilometers an hour on average—serious numbers for a ute.And Chery’s Tiggo 4 is officially heading to New Zealand in July. Two variants, lots of tech like Apple CarPlay, and awards under its belt from across the Tasman. Sounds promising for compact SUV buyers.Meanwhile, Mazda’s introduced their first true EV, the Mazda6e, in Europe. It’s got sleek design, solid driving dynamics, and options for long-range batteries. Looks like they’re bringing their “Jinba Ittai” philosophy into the electric age.Alright, now for international EV news today...Tesla’s gearing up to launch their robotaxi fleet in Austin next month. And apparently, it’ll involve what they’re calling plenty of teleoperations to keep safety levels high. Classic Tesla, promising big moves.Finally, our One Liners for today...The long-range Volvo XC70 plug-in hybrids are gaining traction in areas with less EV infrastructure.The Polestar 5 GT with ultrafast charging is set to debut at the Munich motor show in September.Mercedes-AMG’s E 53 Hybrid hits New Zealand, combining luxury with electrified performance.Mercedes GLB’s next-gen model is scheduled for 2026 – new platform and fresh powertrain options.A rare 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 is up for sale, if you’re a fan of Back to the Future.And Skoda’s modern take on the 130-year history continues with a bold reimagining of classic designs.Plus, finalists have been announced for the 2025 Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional in the UK. Mundane cars have never been so celebrated.And that wraps up the Full Brief. For links to all the articles we mentioned, head to thefullbrief.nz and you can subscribe to our daily email there. See you next time!

Episodes

NZ Automotive News - 19th May 2025