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NISSAN ENTERS THE V8 SUPERCAR CHAMPIONSHIP FROM 2013

2012-02-11T10:47:00.002+11:00

Nissan V8 Supercar concept (c) armageddon designs

First new manufacturer to join the Championship under the Car of the Future program
Kelly Racing to race four Nissans in the Championship from 2013
Nissan leads grid in opening Championship to new manufacturers

In one of the most significant events in V8 Supercar history Japanese car giant Nissan will join the pinnacle of Australian motorsport and touring car racing by entering the Championship from 2013.

After a 20-year absence from the Australian Touring Car Championship, Nissan Motorsport (Australia) will run four cars with up and coming V8 Supercar team Kelly Racing.

From 2013, Kelly Racing will campaign as Nissan Motorsport – a formalised factory team.

The announcement was made in Melbourne today by Nissan Australia Managing Director and CEO Dan Thompson; Ian Moreillon, Executive General Manager, Sales and Fleet, Nissan Australia; V8 Supercar Chairman Tony Cochrane, and; V8 Supercar CEO David Malone.

They were joined by V8 Supercar Commission Chairman Mark Skaife; Kelly Racing Chairman John Crennan, and; Kelly Racing co-owner-drivers Todd and Rick Kelly.

Nissan is the first manufacturer to take advantage of the Car of the Future program which virtually two years ago to the day was unveiled with an aim to cutting running costs and encouraging other marques to compete, in turn broadening fan and sponsor appeal.

Nissan's decision confirms that the Car of the Future program is high on the agenda of V8 Supercar teams and potential new manufacturers.

V8 Supercars expects more manufacturers to follow Nissan's lead given the high profile of the sport domestically and internationally. The sport intends to grow to 18 events world-wide (up from the present 15 Championship events) across 40 weeks in the coming years.

The first Car of the Future prototypes were unveiled at the Sydney Telstra 500 just last December.

Nissan's entry into the V8 Supercar Championship reflects its brand promises of “innovation and excitement”: innovation with the Car of the Future program, and excitement through the attraction and popularity of V8 Supercars.

It also believes the sport will add significant momentum to its primary and corporate brand profile in Australia.

Nissan is highly acclaimed and successful in global motorsport, its products having won the European-based FIAGT1 Drivers’ Championship, Japanese SuperGT Championship and the LMP2 class (1st and 2nd) at Le Mans last year.

Managing Director and CEO of Nissan Australia Dan Thompson said: “We plan to use our presence in the series to strengthen our passenger car credentials in Australia.

“Nissan believes that, alongside Ford and Holden, we possess the most convincing motorsport DNA and track history in Australia, making a V8 Supercars debut in 2013 an obvious initiative.

“We are targeting No.1 importer status in Australia and already making progress towards that as one of the country’s fastest growing brands. V8 Supercars will boost that momentum.”

V8 Supercar Chairman Tony Cochrane, who announced the Car of the Future program in March 2010, said it confirmed the global demand for V8 Supercars by manufacturers and destinations was very real.

“We welcome Nissan with more than open arms,” Mr Cochrane said.

“This announcement confirms all we have known about V8 Supercars for a long, long time – that we are truly an international player, an extraordinarily popular sport amongst fans globally and in great demand by big business and corporate players.

“I applaud Kelly Racing for this pioneering move to embrace Nissan and take one of the world’s biggest brands on their journey within the V8 Supercar Championship. Todd and Rick are truly remarkable businessmen, visionaries and drivers.”

Kelly Racing will from 2013 be a fully-fledged Nissan factory team developing its own cars and engines, utilising the global resources of the giant NISMO motorsport organisation.

Rick Kelly, a V8 Supercar champion and multiple Bathurst winner, was enthused about the move.

“I couldn't be more excited with the opportunity Nissan has offered Todd, myself and the entire team at Kelly Racing to become their official factory team,” he said.

“Nissan's genuine enthusiasm, unwavering support and absolute professionalism through this evaluation has been tremendous and underpins their absolute intentions of Championship success in the category - a dream we share and hope to deliver on.

“This new partnership has only been made possible by the endless amount of hard work that John Crennan has done for Kelly Racing on this project, and that of Ian Moreillon, Jeff Fisher and the team at Nissan of which Todd and I are very grateful.

“The Nissan Car of the Future (COTF) project is a huge undertaking however Todd and I are firmly focused on the job at hand this season ensuring that Kelly Racing takes those important steps forward on and off the race track.

“Development of our cars and recruitment of key personnel in the off-season should assist us to realise these immediate goals.

“This new partnership brings with it a host of opportunities for the team, our business partners and of course fans and delivers the vision that we have shared since our inception in the category in 2009.”

Business partner and elder brother Todd Kelly said Kelly Racing’s innovative business strategies fitted perfectly with Nissan's desire to enter the V8 Supercar Championship.

“Rick and I have had one clear goal that we have been striving for since we started Kelly racing, that was to become a benchmark race-winning team with factory support,” he said.

“The timing with Car of the Future has enabled us to engage a manufacturer and achieve that. We couldn't be happier to be a factory Nissan team and Factory Nissan drivers.

“Nissan is a fantastic brand that we will all be extremely proud to represent and their international motorsport heritage and engineering capabilities are both key factors in our new relationship that will help us achieve our goals.”

Car of the Future architect Mark Skaife said the ground-breaking announcement was only the start.

“This opens up a whole new chapter for V8 Supercars,” Mr Skaife said.

“The sport and the brand have been so successful over such a long period of time with today’s news reinforcing the direction of the business, coupled with imminent international expansion to multiple destinations globally.

“Nissan has clearly acknowledged V8 Supercars as a major component of their future plans within the Australian car market and motorsport internationally. V8 Supercars will deliver on their expectations.

“There is no doubting the entry of more manufacturers now that Nissan has taken the first step to recognize what the relationship will do for their brand.”

The three-year Car of the Future project, led by Mr Skaife and a key team of engineers, designers, car builders, V8 Supercar team personnel and drivers, is complete with 2013-spec Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon fully tested and on the showroom floor.

The cars, developed with the sponsorship support of Dunlop, represent the next generation V8 Supercars, paving the way for new marques.

V8 Supercar teams have already commenced building their new cars before the compulsory roll-out in 2013.

About V8 Supercars
V8 Supercars is a touring car racing category run as an international series under Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) regulations. It is the premier motorsport category in Australasia and one of Australia’s fastest growing sports. By 2011 the competition had millions of television viewers in Australia, an international broadcast footprint and had achieved multi-million dollar sponsorship at the Series and team levels. V8 Supercars is one of the few truly national sports in Australia, with 14 events held across Australia, plus an event in New Zealand and in Abu Dhabi. On average, 126,000 people attended events in Australia and New Zealand in 2011. V8 Supercars was created in 1997 to professionally manage, market and promote the sport of V8 Supercars racing around the world. Until May, 2011, V8 Supercars was owned 25 per cent by Sports & Entertainment Limited (SEL) and 75% by TEGA, the body representing the teams. Following the investment of Australian Motor Racing Partners Pty Limited (AMRP), V8 Supercars Australia is owned approximately 40% by the teams and management and approximately 60% by AMRP. More information at www.v8supercars.com.au

CR-V’s Outback Odyssey

2011-04-23T17:06:00.003+10:30

Honda Magazine: Issue 51

It’s fair to say that not everyone driving a Honda CR-V was anticipating a gruelling cross-country safari, but that’s exactly what we did.

Against a backdrop of the harsh Australia outback, one expects to see hardcore, fully-tricked 4WD beasts bristling massive spotlights and armoured with bullbars and winches. But the otherwise meek, mild Honda CR-V took us on an odyssey across sweeping plains and parched deserts in a relaxed comfort more akin to a family sedan.

Out on the open road, CR-V cruises effortlessly and economically, gobbling up the miles but not the fuel. We enjoyed 10.0L/100km across our 3000 kilometre trek without too much regard to peddle pressure. As our journey progressed from well-dressed bitumen to naked limestone, the CR-V was able to adapt effortlessly thanks to its Real Time 4WD and smooth 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control. Smarter than your average 4x4, CR-V’s 125kW, 2.4-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine will only apply power to the rear wheels when the front wheels require assistance, like on loose, uphill sections or sharp corners in the dirt.

When you combine the intelligence of the all wheel drive system with ABS brakes, traction and stability control, and a cabin with six airbags, it hardly seems fair.

Contenders in drive.com.au's Small 4WDs Mega-test

With at least seven serious contenders vying for this hotly contested compact SUV segment, the third generation CR-V still punches above its weight against all contenders. The notoriously thorough Fairfax motoring journalists took the entire segment out for a drive and found the stalwart CR-V tops in the group despite serious new competition from Korea, Germany and Japan.

“Not only does it drive well but it scores highly for interior design, engine and gearbox combination, noise refinement, comfort and practicality,” wrote Jez Spinks after the exhaustive test.

But the drive.com.au team weren’t game to take their cars off road, so here is where we fill in that gap. Oh, and to raise the bar a bit higher, we’re towing a trailer.

Heading out of the grandeur of the Flinders Ranges in spring, we made a beeline for the vast nothingness along the Oodnadatta Track where asphalt is unheard of. Sand, gumball-sized pebbles and the occasional water-filled ford were all par for the course along a route that took us as far as the opal outpost of Coober Pedy. So harsh and remote is this town, many choose to live underground to escape the baking summer heat. Astronauts come here to train and film crews shoot sci-fi features in the otherworldly terrain.

As we rolled into the car park of our subterranean hotel, the CR-V had taken the whole South Australian outback in its stride proving that, properly prepared and carefully driven, some of the world’s most notorious roads were within the grasp of this near bulletproof runabout.

Recommended Accessories:

Modulo Front Skid Plate
Modulo Rear Skid Plate
Modulo Side Step Set with metal finish
Fog lights and Garnish Set
Luggage Area Protector Lining or tray
Bonnet Protector
Roof box
Internal luggage guard
Sump guard (aftermarket)

Driving into the Future

2011-02-01T09:30:00.001+11:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More sports cars

Licence to Thrill

2010-12-01T09:35:00.001+11:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More automotive

Beg Borrow or Lease

2010-10-01T10:26:00.004+10:30

Open publication

A Matter of Taste: Style or Bile

2010-06-01T15:31:00.000+10:30

OUTthere Issue 72

Style or Bile?

Car styling, like all fashion comes and goes in waves. The 1930s produced some of the most magnificent lines, while the fifties became ‘blocky’. The ‘60s stand out as the most daring while the ‘70s and ‘80s slumped into hideous doldrums.

Just as art can split opinions, so can cars. Some might say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but car fans are predictably unanimous in their verdicts. Roderick Eime wades into the argument with his own opinion.

The World’s Most Beautiful Car

A jury of the world’s great car designers ruminated long and hard, but one car that keeps appearing in every list of gorgeous automotive creations is the Mark 1 E-Type Jaguar.

Conceived in the brash 1960s, when style still meant something, it survived until 1975 when the infectious design malaise finally struck even this most beautiful of cars.

Available in both coupe (FHC) and convertible (DHC), lovers of the marque are split over which is most visually pleasing, but both camps are delighted to disagree over such a pleasant argument. Even Enzo Ferrari called it "The most beautiful car ever made".

Powerful, glamorous and reasonably priced, the E-Type took the US market by storm in March 1961 and immediately spawned a domestic UK market four months later. More Mark 1s (38,000) were made than both the Mark 2 and 3 together.

Originally fitted with the successful and sweet-revving 3.8 litre DOHC straight six, it was uprated to the 4.2 litre version in 1964. The Mark 3 was fitted with a massive V12 which many purists saw as a vulgar expression.

Designer, Malcolm Sayer, saw himself more as an aerodynamicist than an automotive stylist. He had previously worked in aircraft design during the war and was instrumental in some of Jaguar’s most enduring models, including the similarly pleasing C and D Type racing cars.

Other short-listed: Italian triumph, Ferrari 275GTB; Lighweight English looker, Lotus Elan.

The World’s Ugliest Car

Universally reviled by glamour car enthusiasts worldwide, the 1975 AMC Pacer stands alone. Remarkably, the US-built 2-door coupe designed and sold by the folks who brought us a string of automotive travesties like Rambler, Nash and Humvee manufactured this “hat full” for five years. 280,000 of them were produced in both hatchback and wagon before Chrysler put the world out of its misery in 1987 by buying the brand and renaming it Eagle.

There’s no accounting for taste and the Dick Teague-designed car made the transition to UK and European markets, producing perhaps the world’s ultimate bad taste car advertisement for the “racy” French market.

Ironically the car reached a level of cult status when it starred in the 1992 nerd movie “Wayne’s World” and is now an icon of ‘70s bad taste and cringe fashion. There was even a Levi’s version complete with denim seats and brass buttons. What were they thinking?

Other short-listed: Yugoslavian fiasco, Yugo; Great Aussie eyesore, P76.

Francis Birtles: He’s Bean Everywhere

2010-05-01T14:37:00.003+10:30

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 71

Francis Birtles, younger brother Clive and dog Wowser about to set out from Melbourne in a 1913 Model T Ford on a 10,000 mile trip to Perth via Sydney and Darwin. Famous photographer, Frank Hurley, joined them in Sydney. Photo by Algernon Darge (State Library of Victoria)

A marathon motorist reclaims his place in Australian folklore. Roderick Eime pays homage.

Most of us think Australia’s heroes are well known. They are the men and women we read about in newspapers, history books and sports reports. At school we learn about Mawson, Simpson, Kingsford-Smith and Chisholm, but still our unknown achievers and record-breakers are creeping out of the cracks.

Adelaide-born Sir Hubert Wilkins is now remembered as the first man to fly across the Arctic and take a submarine beneath the ice pack, while Mary MacKillop bounds headlong into sainthood. Yet one man, Francis Edwin Birtles, has almost disappeared into history.

Born in Melbourne in 1881, Birtles was a crazy cyclist bent on breaking records. Like some Forrest Gump on wheels, he first set off from Fremantle in 1905 and didn’t stop for seven years. By 1912, he’d cycled around Australia twice and crossed the continent seven times.

But his exploits in the automobile are perhaps his most remarkable. In 1912, he completed the first west-to-east crossing of the continent with Syd Ferguson and a dog. The car was a single cylinder Brush. Later with Frank Hurley and his brother Clive, he began filming his journeys creating films such as Into Australia's Unknown (1915), Across Australia in the Track of Burke and Wills and in 1919, Through Australian Wilds, following the track of Sir Ross Smith.

He continued to set records driving around Australia completing some 70 transcontinental crossings. In 1928 (the same year Wilkins flew the Arctic) he completed a nine month journey from London to Melbourne, becoming the first person to do so.

Championed by political cartoonist and former host of Aussie Top Gear, Warren Brown, Birtles has enthralled him for his feats of mechanical and human endurance. Brown has even restored a 1925 Bean and intends to retrace Birtles’s route from London.

“80 years ago he was a household name across Australia,” Brown reminds us, “part action man, part bushman, part madman.”

Birtles’s first attempt at the drive in the prototype Bean Imperial Six was a disaster. The car broke down in India and so did they. Undaunted, Birtles vowed another attempt, this time in his own car, the trusty Bean 14, nicknamed “Sundowner”.

This nine-month odyssey, Brown believes, is perhaps the most astonishing motoring adventure in history. Across searing deserts, through blinding snowstorms and steaming jungles, Birtles quite often made his own roads as he went.

In the depression-ridden 1930s, Birtles went outback again to prospect for gold, looking for the notorious Lewis Lassiter in the meantime. He found gold, but the extreme pace of his life had taken its toll and Birtles died of heart disease in Sydney in 1941 and is buried in Waverley Cemetery. He was 60 years old.

Relics of Birtles and his adventures are hard to find, but his most significant legacy is the original Bean motor car on display at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra, donated by Birtles and Bean Cars Ltd in 1929 for the express purpose.

Hyundai: Re-imagining Fluidic i-Sculpture

2010-04-01T14:58:00.001+11:00

OUTthere Magazine All Torque Issue 70

In the ferocious, crisis-ridden world of the automobile, manufacturers constantly jostle for the attention of new car buyers. Each new vehicle launch is characterized by bold additions to the dictionary of car speak and Korean giant, Hyundai, now has some of its own.

‘re-imagine’, ‘design DNA’ and ‘fluidic sculpture’ are my new buzz words for the week after witnessing Hyundai Australia’s razzle-dazzle launch of their new compact SUV, ix35.

In the online universe, it seems everything from sandwich spread to off road vehicles are now designated i-something. The buying public might have soundly trashed the idea of smearing i-paste on their sandwiches, but Hyundai have struck a chord.

The first i-sedan, the i30, is part of the Korean’s new uniform ‘design DNA’, centred around the hexagonal motif. Launched in mid-2008 and immediately a hit, the i30 stands up well against established segment leaders such as Ford Focus and VW Polo. Compact i20 will be next and the Sonata replacement, currently codenamed YF, soon after.

Hyundai (pronounced hee-unn-DAY), the 64-year-old South Korean industrial megalith, makes everything from oil tankers and locomotives to MP3 players with a presence in Australia dating back to 1986 when Alan Bond first introduced the little Excels. That cute utilitarian runabout made history by becoming the top selling car in June 1998. Yes, it outsold both Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore with 8663 units. The Korean continued to irk the majors when in 2009 Hyundai Motor Company Australia posted its best-ever annual result. December sales of 4,039 represented a 4.6 per cent market share and an increase of 12 per cent over Dec 2008 results

Apart from Australia, Hyundai’s sales trends have curved the opposite way to most manufacturers around the world. US Fortune Magazine dubbed Hyundai “The toughest car company of them all” saying “competitors hate them, customers love them.” Their flagship, full-size Genesis is gathering awards faster than James Cameron.

The ix35 is an impressively packaged little AWD device and will certainly impact on segment front-runners RAV4, Dualis, Forester and CR-V.

The 2.0 turbo diesel is responsive and amazingly frugal, delivering results in the sub-5.0s when driven carefully. It is the pick of the three engine options. A full suite of electronic driver assistance features is included from the base up, a marketing decision that will certainly put ix35 on the shortlist of the target demographic, the professional, urban-dwelling 25-49 man or woman with a small family.

Styling, without buzzwords, is bold and sexy and, as the marketing team like to remind us, displays masculine chunkiness externally, with a flowing crisp, neat feminine feel inside.

ix35 will be in showrooms around the country by the time you read this. Base model 2WD petrol ‘Active’ is priced from a sensible $26,990 and ranges up to the fully-tricked (18” alloy wheels) ‘Highlander’ at $37,990.

For further information, visit www.hyundai.com.au or one of over 50 dealers around Australia.

There’s No Trick to Safety

2010-03-01T09:34:00.000+11:00

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 69

Today’s modern 4WD is far removed from early Jeeps and Land Rovers that burst onto the scene in the ‘40s and ‘50s, especially in terms of safety and comfort.

Equipped with an array of handy driver aids, have you even looked at what your urbanized all-wheel-drive can do? Here’s a list of some of the latest tricks now being shipped as standard with modern off-road vehicles and even sedans. You may find these driver aids handy on your next rural adventure, or they may even save your life. Pay attention.

Hill Descent Control system

Originally developed by Land Rover for use in their baby Freelander, this feature makes push-button work of a skill even many experienced 4WDers get wrong. The system is an adaptation of the ABS which monitors each wheel as the vehicle descends a steep, slippery slope, making the descent safely without tricky braking and clutch control from the driver. Piece of cake.

Traction Control (or Anti-Slip Regulation)

Designed for powerful road cars to improve the effectiveness of the Limited Slip Differential, the technology made an easy transference to off-road vehicles. Traditionally 4WDs used a locking differential for traction in the worst conditions, but an ever-ready Traction Control is more user friendly for regular drivers. In short, if a wheel begins to slip, torque is automatically transferred to the wheel with most grip

Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Much more than just another flashing light on your dashboard, ESP is perhaps one of the most important safety developments for all vehicles, not just 4WDs. Meshed with the computer that controls ABS and TC, ESP will intervene if it detects skidding or loss of steering control. It will bias braking to counteract over- or understeer and possibly avert an accident. Vehicle safety authorities are lobbying hard to make this feature mandatory on all new motor vehicles. Smart.

Rear View Camera or Parking Sensors

One of the greatest dangers with vehicles, particularly high driver position 4WDs, is rear vision, or lack of it. We’ve all backed into something we didn’t see in the mirror and that makes a rear view camera more than a status symbol or toy. Whether you are backing a boat, caravan or just getting out of your driveway, unseen obstacles are a threat – or in some cases, you are the threat. Parking warning sensors or even rear view cameras can also be retro-fitted to most vehicles.

Also on the menu:

Brake Assist (BA): Gives you added pedal pressure for an emergency stop
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): Shortens stopping distances by braking wheels with most traction
Hill Start Assist (HSAC): Stop you rolling backwards on a hill start.

All the tricks and gadgets in the world should never replace old-fashioned common sense and safety. Drive within your limits and to the conditions – and pay attention to servicing, tyre condition and brakes.

Magnificent Sevens

2010-02-01T17:53:00.000+11:00

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 68

Whether it’s expressing the soccer team to their Saturday showdown or packing the troupe for a weekend getaway, the modern seven-seater is a triumph in family logistics. Gone are the days of bench seats, lap riding and rolling around the rear of the station wagon. We survey the standout performers.

Are we never satisfied? Folks my age remember packing the family into the vinyl upholstered station wagon, sliding along the bench seat sometimes four or five skinny kids wide and sweating it out all the way to the beach. No wonder backyard pools were so popular.

Today’s checklist for modern people-movers include air-conditioning, leather bucket seats with lap/sash belts for all and a barrage of airbags inside a reinforced and galvanized chassis. The boxy minivans of the ‘80s and early ‘90s are passé now that seven adults can travel in luxurious comfort in a vehicle smaller than the old HQ. Don’t even mention fuel economy.

Honda Odyssey

Exemplary build quality and safety makes the sleek, multi award-winning Odyssey a perfect tourer for the larger family in the better neighbourhood. With 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC engine and 5-speed auto, the fourth generation model begins at $41,990 for standard.

Holden Captiva 7

The Korean-built Captiva SUV is a hit with mums according to AutoChic website. Small families can even downsize to the 5-seat version and go 2WD too. An economical diesel is available and bags of safety features too like ABS and electronic stability control (ESP). Captiva 7 starts at $35,490

Subaru Tribeca 3.6R Premium

A slow starter in the market, the latest Tribeca AWD squarely addresses initial criticisms by smartening up the styling and bulking up under the bonnet. Handy as a light off-roader, the Tribeca has all the smart Subaru gear and the new 3.6l engine kicks 190kW. Save up though. Starts at $58,990

Mazda CX-9 Classic

First introduced in late ’07, the latest CX-9 is in showrooms now and is absolutely chockers with all the latest safety kit and driver aids and $2k cheaper than the model it replaces. Bold new styling and ballsy 3.7l V6 sets CX-9 apart. Classic starts at $49,990

Toyota Tarago V6 GLi

Tarago is almost a euphemism for people-mover, but today’s offering is a far cry from the minibus–like van introduced 26 years ago. Tarago, which is derived from an Aboriginal word meaning “my country” is only sold in Australia with this badge. Available in lusty 3.5 V6 (starts $54,690) or 2.4 litre 4-cylinder ($49,490)

Ford Territory TS RWD

The locally designed Territory has always been a hit with Aussie families. The big 4.0l six and sure-footed 2- or 4WD options made the burly SUV an instant hit with boat owners, caravanners and sports mums. With a new look for 2009, the extra seats only some with TS RWD ($44,490)

VW Golf GTI: On Your Marks: Nine into One Goes

2010-02-01T10:49:00.006+11:00

Volkswagen Magazine : Issue 14 : Summer 2010

Roderick Eime traces the GTI’s 33 years of progress

When a car is this overwhelmingly successful, the world takes note. What is it about this little Volkswagen that so captured the imagination of car enthusiasts across the planet? Intended as a modest replacement for the ageing, yet evergreen Beetle, the Golf took off like no-one expected.

Named after, not the famous ball game, but instead the ferocious wind: Gulf Stream. Golf was a complete departure from Doktor Ferdinand Porsche’s original vision of the ‘People’s Car’. Instead of rear-mounted, air-cooled and rear wheel drive, the complete opposite was engineered into the new VW mass market machine.

In all its incarnations, the VW Golf is now the world’s third best selling vehicle with over 26,000,000 made and sold. It passed the venerable Beetle’s mere 21,500,000 in 2002.

But while mum, dad and Aunt Vera were happy to motor sedately in their new Golf runabout, the backroom lads were already plotting the steroidal version for the more ‘enthusiastic’ driver. Here mystery and legend come into play as the tale of the GTI’s development is told.

In the early ‘70s, Volkswagen wasn’t in a particularly bold frame of mind. Car companies were generally spooked by the rise of global terrorism and the uncertainty of oil supply. A bunch of hotheads talking about performance cars was not getting much of a hearing. So the boys went underground, literally, into a bierkeller to hatch (pun intended) their plans over pilsener and bratwurst.

Engineers were joined by marketers and public relations men in the subterranean trysts. Other manufacturers, the growing team observed, were leading buyers away from rivals by dressing up the vanilla-flavoured models with racing stripes and a few race-bred bits under the bonnet. Ford, for example, were successfully leveraging their relationship with Lotus and Cosworth to make ‘party animal’ Cortinas and Escorts that publicly flexed their muscles on the race track. These results translated into sales with the famous motto: “Race on Sunday, Sell on Monday”.

Persistence paid off and the project dubbed “Sport Golf” began to get official recognition and six prototypes were approved. These were displayed at the 1975 Frankfurt Motor Show and the seed was sown. 5000 limited production units were built and dispersed throughout the dealer network and the resulting interest was unstoppable to the point where production of the LHD-only version was running at 5000 units per month.

The Mk1 Golf GTI profited from the recent corporate merger between Audi, NSU and VW and the Audi-developed, 1600cc 8-valve engine was employed, fed by a then state-of-the-art Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system. The little beast erupted with 81kW at full noise, propelling the 800kg car to 100kmh in nine seconds and on to a top speed of 180kmh – respectable enough to mix it with the big boys on the Autobahn.

The UK market was clamouring for a RHD version, but their appetite for the GTI had to wait until 1979 for a production version. Just as the European precedent had already been set, sales of 1500 in the first year tripled in the following 24 months.

By this time the phenomenon of the Volkswagen Golf GTI has spread like wildfire among its competitors and the ‘hot hatchback’ concept was born, spawning copycat models from France, Britain, Japan and Italy. The genre was now a permanent and mandatory segment of automotive manufacturers’ repertoire.

While the world was enjoying the GTI, the wait was even more frustrating for Australians. While the original, regular Golfs had been assembled here almost since the model’s introduction, the first GTIs didn’t go on sale until 1990 and then in a “knobbled” Mk.II version because of inability to supply the new and preferred 16 valve engine in compliance with Australian emission rules. To further rub salt, the uber-hot 4WD, supercharged G60 Limited would not come Down Under at all.

The early nineties saw Golf GTI fall into a mild form of the doldrums. The world was in turmoil again over oil in the Middle East and carmakers across the globe were pre-occupied with meeting the demands of frugal buyers. In an inspirational and lateral move, VW introduced a surprisingly potent turbo-charged diesel engine and the GTI TDI was born. Introduced in Europe in 1991, the GTI Mk.III never made it here

While critics and enthusiasts alike had mixed feelings about the heavy and lazy Mk.III, the 1997 launch of the fourth generation GTI restored interest, but not immediately. While press reports extolled its refined handling and finish, some of the original spark that set the GTI alight back in the ‘70s was missing. VW and Audi production was now more closely linked than ever and the new A3 and Golf GTI Mk.IV were not so much cousins as siblings.

Australians first saw this model in 1999 and despite the anticipation, we were not overly moved by the low-boost turbo 1.8-litre four cylinder with 20-valve head, delivering just 110kW in a chassis that was 50 per cent heavier than the original GTI. Germany reacted by loading the 25th Anniversary model with a 132kW 1.8-litre turbo. While this new powerplant wasn’t seen here for that model, the message was loud and clear: more power thanks.

The arrival of the Mk.V at the 2004 Paris Motor Show was like a second coming. Someone had put a rocket up the design and development team and this new model revived both the prestige and the fortunes of the languishing GTI. It looked the goods and had the notoriously cynical motoring press sitting upright.

“Decades of disappointment end here,” wrote Wheels journalist Nathan Ponchard at the time of its launch in 2005. “It takes just five minutes of hard driving to discover that Volkswagen’s all-new Mk.V Golf GTI is far beyond the mediocre efforts of all its predecessors. It’s the first Golf GTI sold in this country that goes as hard as it looks and, more importantly, actually fulfils your expectations of the badge.”

Volkswagen had a new swagger in their step and the 147kW 2.0 litre turbo-charged engine matched to either a six-speed manual transmission or the much-lauded six speed automatic (with dual clutch, no less) had the GTI back on its aspirational pedestal with a more reasonable price tag.

Visually the Mk.V harked back to the original GTI with the return of the tartan interior and the red surround to the grille element. Even the typeface used on the badge echoes that of the original. Furthermore, this new model served as a base for two special editions, the Pirelli and Edition 30. Both models are powered by an up-rated evolution of the 2.0-litre T-FSI engine fitted to the conventional GTI.

Paris 2008 was again the venue for the debut of the newest model Golf, the Mk.VI. The GTI, however, had to wait until March this year in Geneva to show its hand. At this point in its life, 1.7 million GTIs had been sold worldwide, cementing legend status for this cult car.

Australia is on tenterhooks for a late-2009 arrival of this next model which will coincide with the venerable GTI’s 33rd anniversary. A new 7-speed twin clutch DSG (direct shift gearbox) will be offered, designed to improve both performance and economy.

Expect a top speed of around 238kmh, but despite the power increase to 155kW, the engine will more efficient and deliver improved fuel economy on both the city and highway cycles. The visual and technical design remains faithful to the original brief of the original 1976 model, namely startling performance with maximum driver enjoyment and engagement in an understated package.

What will be unrecognisable, however, is the array of technical and safety features that will make the landmark GTI pale by comparison. Add seven airbags, a five star NCAP crash rating, a dynamic chassis control (DCC) system, XDS electronic transverse differential lock and six-speed manual and DSG twin-clutch gearboxes and you have the comparison equivalent of a Spitfire and an F-18.

The powerplant is a second stage development of the EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It has minor modifications to the pistons, oil and fuel pumps and induction system, while the torque is more accessible than before, delivered earlier in the range for better throttle response.

While the GTI may have travelled a winding path through its various incarnations, many will believe development has run a full circle, returning to the core values that inspired the original design and development conspirators who colluded 35 years ago to bring the model to market.

Honda: One Small Step for Man

2010-01-01T09:50:00.015+11:00

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 67

Soichiro Honda with the 1963 Honda RA270F prototype Formula one car

Roderick Eime reminisces on Honda’s history on the occasion of their fortieth anniversary in Australia.

Forty years ago, a humble man in a big suit stepped onto the surface of the moon and uttered those famous words. On a different scale perhaps, but when Hidehiko Shiomi set up shop in a Melbourne flat, his mission was also the first step in a momentous journey.

Shiomi planted the flag for Honda in Australia and launched one of the most successful international car brands to reach our shores. But like so many of the fledgling Japanese manufacturers, their initial prowess was not with automobiles.

With Japanese industry clawing its way out of the rubble of World War II, manufacturing was based on necessity and cheap, easily assembled items were in demand. Honda’s visionary founder, Soichiro Honda, who gave the company its name, began by attaching tiny two-stroke motors to bicycles and by 1948 was building complete units. By 1963, Honda was the world’s largest producer of motorcycles, even outselling the likes of Triumph and Harley Davidson in their home markets.

Soichiro Honda was a dreamer and “dreams” have been a guiding light throughout the company’s history. Before the war, Honda was a tinkerer and worked with a tuning shop, Art Shokai, on performance and racing cars. In 1963, Honda’s team of engineers and trusted friends like Tadashi Kume produced the first all-Japanese Formula One car powered by a 1500cc V12 engine mounted transversely into the aluminium RA271 chassis. In 1965, the little racing car beat Brabham, Lotus and Ferrari in the Mexican Grand Prix to record their first win.

Although Honda have withdrawn (temporarily, we hope) from F1, their sophisticated and reliable engines have held unassailable status in the sport when teamed with manufacturers like McLaren and Williams during the ‘80s and early ‘90s. Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet and Alain Prost all won championships when propelled by Honda engines.

Racing and performance engineering have served Honda well and many lessons learned from the rigours of competition have found their way into their advanced road cars. Such developments as computer engine management and traction control are just part of a long list of enhancements spawned from racetrack research.

But like so many vehicles on our roads in the 1960s, their technical and aesthetic qualities were far removed from what we take for granted today. Honda’s first retail offerings in Australia bore such names as Life, Scamp and Z360, cars manufactured to comply with a curious tax requirement in Japan that encouraged the fitment of motorcycle-sized engines. These tiny runabouts set the scene for Honda Australia as an importer of small and eminently practical vehicles.

In 1972, the Civic was introduced and over the next 37 years has risen to become one of the world’s most famous production cars alongside Model T, VW Beetle, Mini and Citroen 2CV. Almost 20 million units have been sold in 160 world markets.

As a global company, Honda produces everything from portable generators and lawnmowers to experimental robots and aircraft, but it is their technical prowess and exacting engineering standards that set them apart.

Honda Australia now offers seven distinct vehicles in Australia ranging from the new entry-level model, Jazz, through City, Civic, Accord, Odyssey and AWD CR-V to premium Legend. The upper-mid saloon, Accord Euro, is the current Wheels Magazine Car of the Year.

If ever there was an endorsement for “The Power of Dreams” then Honda is living proof.

For further information on Honda Vehicles, visit www.honda.com.au

See PDF

Driving to Save the World

2009-12-01T10:10:00.005+11:00

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 66

The days of the gas-guzzler are over. Cheap petrol is a thing of the past, and if the rising cost of fuel wasn’t enough to sway us, then pleas from our suffering planet should change our minds.

We’re stuck with roads, cars, buses and trucks for the short term, so rather than look for a ‘tardis’ solution, it is clearly more practical to investigate alternative fuels for existing combustion engines and beyond that, new propulsion systems for the next wave of vehicles.

Roderick Eime examines and rates some current and near-future developments

Good: Biofuels

Fuel from vegetable sources has had a lot of publicity recently. Sir Richard Branson flew one of his Virgin jetliners using some coconut and palm-derived biofuel in a well-publicised test, but the jury is still out. Certainly the source of biofuel is renewable, but critics point out that crops like corn and maize are better used to feed hungry humans than fly rich ones. Brazilians on the other hand, have greatly reduced their reliance on oil for petrol by using sugarcane waste for ethanol. Here in Australia, ethanol is already in our fuel tanks as is biodiesel for our trucks and heavy equipment. The net benefit of biofuel is still under debate, as their burning does produce greenhouse gasses. Supporters argue that the growing of the fuel source reabsorbs the carbon emitted during combustion, bolstering their “carbon neutral” claim.

Better: Petrol- Electric Hybrids

Some experts predict the current eco-vehicles are just an interim measure until even more efficient vehicles arrive. Chances are at least several of you are owners of hybrid vehicles like Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid or Lexus, while others will have driven one as a hire car. In hybrids, a conventional petrol engine is supplemented by banks of NiMH batteries (like those in mobile phones) driving a powerful electric motor. Under coasting or braking, the energy generated is fed back to recharge them, delivering impressively low gasoline mileage.

Outstanding! Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Think of hydrogen and it immediately conjures visions of the exploding Hindenberg airship. Sure, hydrogen is volatile, but it’s also extremely lightweight and efficient when used in a fuel cell. Hydrogen fuel cells work along the same lines as a regular torch or car battery, but instead of acids and fluids, the reactants are gases, the other one being oxygen from the air. Fill up like LPG and away you go and the only emissions are water vapour. It’s only a matter of time before full commercially viable vehicles join the limited experimental ones currently on the road. Japan, unsurprisingly, is leading the way with eleven hydrogen fuel stations already operating as part of their “Hydrogen Highway”.

See PDF

Australia’s 1st National Electric Vehicle Festival

2009-09-27T14:07:00.002+10:30

takes place in Canberra this coming long weekend featuring the Ferrari slaying electric Tesla from the USA.

Like a music festival, Australia’s first national electric vehicle festival delivers one main act – the Ferrari slaying Tesla Roadster – and is supported by plenty of interesting, solid support acts, such as: the 1917 vintage Detroit Electric; incredible electric motorbikes (like Vectrix, who will soon be selling bikes in Canberra); conversions of petrol powered cars; as well as the infrastructure needed for an electric vehicle world. It will be a great gig.

The main attraction for the festival will undoubtedly be the incredible Tesla Roadster that can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds. That is Ferrari beating acceleration, from a car that has maximum torque at 0 km/h. There is only one Tesla in Australia and its biggest public appearance will be at the festival; on the lawns in front of Old Parliament House on Sunday 4 October, from 9am to 4pm.

“The Tesla is the first guilt-free high-performance sports car of our time. There is little else to say, it’s a dream. It pushes your stomach into the back of the seat with renewable energy, giving you a guilt-free adrenalin hit. I want to see them on our roads,” said Ivan Slavich, Chairman of the ACT Electric Vehicle Council and executive at ActewAGL, the ACT’s energy and water utility.

Electric vehicles have been in the margin of the automotive industry since cars arrived on history’s pages. Until now. Many enthusiasts have undertaken incredible conversions and there are now viable conversion businesses operating in Australia, who will also be at the festival.

“Electric vehicles are finally coming of age. Conceptually, they have always been smarter than internal combustion technology, but their stars have not been aligned until now. It seems we are finally at a turning point. The technology is viable, the capital is now willing, and the market’s appetite, driven by climate change adaptation, is at last ready for better vehicles,” said Julia McDonald, engineer and member of the ACT Electric Vehicle Council.

Special note: In advance of the Festival, on Thursday morning, 1 October, a track comparison is being planned between the Telsa and an equally impressive, Audi R8 on the Hill-climb track at Sutton Road, between the Canberra Airport and Queanbeyan. Stay tuned for more details.

For more information on the ACT Electric Vehicle Council go to: www.electricvehiclecouncil.com.au

For more information on the Electric Vehicle Festival go to: www.electricvehiclefestival.com.au

FIRST AUSSIE TVC CAMPAIGN FOR INDIAN VEHICLE

2009-09-22T11:42:00.004+10:30

Tuesday, September 22, 2009, Sydney – Mahindra Automotive Australia (MAA) has unveiled its first TVC campaign since the Mahindra Pik-Up utility vehicle was launched in Australia. The ad’s content and tag line “Made for the hardest places on Earth” demonstrates the vehicle’s proven capability under some of the harshest conditions in the world, including its origin India, where the vehicle is manufactured by automotive giant Mahindra & Mahindra.

Claire Tynan, CEO, MAA said, “To date we have focussed on a mix of below-the-line, targeted print advertising, radio, web and sponsorship activities to ensure that we communicate with our key audience of farmers and tradies. After building the brand over the past two years we wanted to achieve a wider reach which TV delivers effectively in addition to these mediums.

“We’re really excited about this campaign and believe it will reinforce that this workhorse ute operates very successfully in some the most remote locations on the planet.”

The ad sees the Mahindra Pik-Up ‘journey’ around the world from the Pyrenees to the Sahara, Wadi Rum Desert to the Himalayas, and back to the Serengeti, where the Mahindra is used by many local drivers. ‘Hardest places’ is not only relegated to foreign locations; the ad demonstrates that the vehicle can also be found at comfortably at work in a mine, at a vineyard or on a worksite.

The TVC, was produced by Sydney agency Synchromesh Marketing in North Sydney.

In a recent true-to-life example of the Pik-Up’s triumph under harsh conditions, Brazilian motoring enthusiast Ricardo Augusto de Souza Campos, better known in the South American motor sport fraternity simply as Rasc, took third place in the production category of the tough Rally dos Sertoes in Brazil, in his Mahindra.

The Rally dos Sertoes is one of the toughest events in the world, second it’s said after the mighty Dakar, and this year it was run over 11 days, was 5,045 km long with featured events that totaled 2,605km of competitive stages between Goiania and Natal. 128 vehicles participated; among them were 66 cars and seven trucks, with the rest being motorcycles and quads.

Rasc wanted to do something different with his 16-year old son RASC Campos, better known as Rasquinho, and so he purchased a Mahindra pick-up. A veteran of over 25 years of motor sport in Brazil, Rasc has seen action not just in circuit racing (where he was Brazilian champion in the Speed 1600 series) but since 1990 had turned his hand to rallies, taking part in the tough Brazilian events in all forms of machinery, latterly trucks.

In this demanding event run across Brazilian jungles and swampy terrain, his placing of 22 overall and third in the production category was a true motoring success story and a testament to the Mahindra’s survival in one of the “Hardest places on Earth”.

If Mike and Mal Could See Us Now

2009-09-02T14:12:00.003+10:30

OUTthere 63

Can a lightweight, soft-roader cut it outback? The All Torque team saddled up three little Land Rover Freelander 2s and disappeared into the middle of Queensland. We surprised ourselves. You might too.

Away from the city, past even the furthest outer suburbs is 4WD land. For over 90 per cent of off-road owners, it is a mystical place full of tall tales and legend, where men can be boys and boys can be men.

In the yard of the Land Rover dealer in Brisbane’s busy Fortitude Valley, we unfurled the Drive Queensland tourist map and plotted our course taking us past the iconic outback town of Longreach and into the vast unbroken paddocks along the dingo fence and marked with tantalising red warnings like, “drivers do so at their own risk” and “travellers should advise police of their intentions”. Excellent!

Armed with a keen sense of adventure, spare tyres and extra water, we set off in three brand new compact Land Rover Freelander 2s to test the comfy little 4WD’s ability to match our enthusiasm. The new $50k Freelander has the latest confidence-enhancing electronic driver aids, seven airbags, fulltime 4WD and a fuel economy that won’t break the bank, especially the thrifty little turbo diesel.

The smart 6-speed automatic transmission which the Land Rover hype department calls CommandShift™, does manual sequential gear changes with a driver-selectable sports mode. It comes standard across the range. Cool.

By the end of a long day at the wheel, we were outback, reminded by the necessity to stay vigilant in the failing light for marsupials with appalling road sense, several of whom barely escaped conversion to crow food.

The next day was a whole new world, waking to choruses of crows and magpies in the crisp country air of Charleville. We headed out through rough cattle country leaving satisfying trails of dust, stopping occasionally to open (and close!) gates and pulling up for Cornettos at godforsaken little stores that often required going in search of the owner to complete the transaction. My favourite line, “Do you take Amex?” always got a hearty laugh. This is the outback!

In the 2000-something kilometres we travelled, the little showroom-standard Freelander 2s performed flawlessly. There was the mandatory flooded creek crossing, sand dune bogging, rocky hillclimb and even a bit of wild horse mustering. We weathered countless jibes aimed at our lurid, metallic painted soft-roaders from crusty locals at the many dusty saloons along the way. Clearly the venerable Land Rover had slipped in their estimation in recent years, but that didn’t stop them from coming out for a butcher’s at the little runabouts.

“Nah, ain’t got them things on the troopie mate,” said Mick, the no-nonsense licensee of the Windorah pub out of the slightly curling corner of his mouth, “don’t think you’d sell too many seat warmers out ‘ere.”

So ended our little Leyland Brothers remake (yes, they used Land Rovers once) and we handed back our trusty, mud-splattered mounts with all the hair-shirted satisfaction of knowing we went where no mere sedan could possibly follow.

Liked:

* Remarkably good off road manners, sturdy chassis
* Arsenal of electronic aids and safety enhancements
* Frugal diesel – expect 6l/100km (country) when driven carefully

If we were picky:

* Limitations with underbody clearance excludes really heavy work
* Petrol a bit thirsty for city work (15.8L/100km)

Test Vehicles:

Land Rover Freelander 2 Si6 SE and Td4 SE
3.2-litre i6 petrol (171 kW), 2.2-litre TD4 diesel (118 kW)
6-speed auto, with CommandShift
Full time intelligent four-wheel drive
Si6 SE $49,990, Td4 SE $51.990 *
3 year/100,000 km warranty

Further information: www.landrover.com.au

* Price is a guide only, please refer to your Land Rover dealer for full pricing and options

See PDF

EASTERN CREEK BIDS FOR WORLD GT1 CHAMPIONSHIP

2009-07-06T11:32:00.001+10:30

Sydney's Eastern Creek Raceway is making a strong bid to host a round of the inaugural World GT1 Championship for sports cars in 2010.

The raceway now has four months in which to stake Australia's claim to the ground breaking championship.

The series is being hailed as the first world title that has been purpose-designed for the Internet.

Series promoter, the UK-based SRO Motorsports Group, intends to field a 24 car grid with live "conventional" TV already confirmed across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and South America.

Six of the twelve rounds are locked in and the other six, including Australia, are now on offer and under negotiation.

GT1 vehicles from Nissan, Ford and Lamborghini have been confirmed.

Aston Martin, Audi, Ferrari and Chevrolet have the series under evaluation.

SRO has presented sporting regulations for the fledgling series to the FIA Motor Sport World Council last week.

Confirmation of series venues is required by October and entries must be lodged by the end of November.

Eastern Creek promoter, the Australian Racing Drivers' Club, claims the GT1 World Championship is, "the most cost effective world championship that could possibly come to Australia".

ARDC CEO Geoff Arnold said his group was ramping up its bid to seek support from authorities at local, state, and federal levels.

"Return on investment will be high," Arnold said.

"Conventional TV reach is estimated at more than 150 million viewers, but the true value lies in the net where SRO is developing substantial breakthrough opportunities."

The ARDC has a proposition in front of the NSW Government for a staged upgrade of the 20 year-old state-owned circuit.

However the World Championship proposal does not depend on the improvements being made.

"Eastern Creek's facilities and track design benefit from a Grade 2 FIA Homologation, which is the level required to host a round of the FIA GT1 World Championship," SRO President and CEO Stephane Ratel said.

"One of the attractions of the venue is that it is within the boundaries of one of the world's most desirable cities, and it is walk-in-walk-out."

Mr Arnold said adoption of Phase One of the ARDC's improvement plans would be desirable, but it was not mandatory.

"Our immediate concern is to have relevant tourism authorities buy into the opportunity and partner with us."

SRO is one of the world's most successful motorsport promoters. Its portfolio includes a ten-year involvement with the FIA's European GT Championships and management around the world of another nine national and European titles.

"SRO's credentials are impeccable and their offer is compelling," Mr Arnold said.

"Tourism and sporting authorities should take this opportunity very seriously and work with us to explore the potential."

Eastern Creek celebrates its 20th anniversary as a race track this year.

It was purpose built to host the world Moto GP Championships, which it did for seven years, before the title was taken back by Victoria's Phillip Island circuit.

"Eastern Creek is now Sydney's only permanent race track and it is one of only a handful of government-owned permanent motor racing facilities," Mr Arnold said.

"It is the logical venue to bid for this series."

Subaru: When the Going Gets Tough

2009-06-02T17:05:00.000+10:30

OUTthere Issue 60 - All Torque

In just 35 years, Subaru has flourished in a land known for its hard knocks and even harder drivers.

Subaru’s 1973 entry into the Australian automotive marketplace coincided nicely with flared trousers, platform heals and the euphoria of a new reformist government under Gough Whitlam.

The awkward-looking Subaru Leone was reminiscent of the lonely geek in the corner at the party and ownership was for those attracted to the little sedan’s undeniable practicality and reliability. Style and street ‘cred’ would have to wait.

We saw a glimpse of the future when the unknown actor Jackie Chan piloted a wild, high performance Subaru Station Wagon in 1981’s madcap ‘Cannonball Run”, even if it was disguised as satire. Today, Subaru’s ‘recreational’ wagons, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) Outback and Forester, deliver a staggering performance package in line with their ‘drivers’ stable mates, the Impreza and Liberty.

Unlike the front-wheel-drive Leone of the ‘70s, Subaru have only offered AWD vehicles in Australia since 1998, reinforcing their niche specialty in driver-focused performance and recreational vehicles. So successful have Subaru been that, in the right (or wrong) hands, Subaru’s WRX Impreza is an uncatchable getaway car!

A lot has changed in 35 years and one thing is certain, people don’t point and giggle when you rock up in a Subaru these days. After total domination of our local rally championships until 2005, Australia is now the third biggest market worldwide for Subaru vehicles, after Japan and the United States.

For the regional user, Subaru’s promised diesel engines are possibly the most exciting development and Australia will see them here shortly.

Subaru Australia MD, Nick Senior

All Torque spoke with Subaru MD, Nick Senior, about the present and future Subaru.

All Torque: Subaru enjoys a strong position in the Australian marketplace. How does the company expect to meet the challenges ahead?

NS: Our unique combination of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Boxer engine continues to be our unique selling proposition. Combined with our safety focus, engineering reputation, durability and proven whole-of-life costs, it makes Subaru a compelling proposition - especially in an economy where people are looking for low-risk, proven performers. The fact that our range covers everything from niche performance models such as Impreza WRX STI to Australia's best-selling compact SUV in the form of Forester, means we have products that appeal to a wide variety of audiences and we believe this positions us well for the future.

All Torque: What is Subaru’s take on the current market and which models are standout performers?.

NS: As with so many industries currently, the automotive market is very tough. However, this has actually presented an opportunity for us, with the attributes outlined above actually attracting new as well as existing customers to Subaru. For example, new generation Forester was Australia's best selling compact SUV last year and is presently the best selling SUV across all categories so far this year. New generation Impreza is achieving our best-ever small car figures and our largest vehicle, Tribeca, has introduced Subaru to a whole new set of customers, looking for a larger vehicle. Together with the new generation Liberty and Outback which will be introduced in September, this gives us cause for optimism in challenging times. It's also encouraging for us that we are selling an increasing volume of range-topping vehicles.

All Torque: Subaru are well known for technical innovation. What new engineering and planning exercises are ahead?

NS: Without giving any secrets away, we have some exciting technologies pending, including the introduction constantly Variable Transmission (CVT) options in our new generation Liberty. This contributes greatly to fuel economy and performance. At the end of the year we will also introduce our first diesel variant, in an Outback. This engine has been getting rave reviews in Europe for its low fuel consumption and refinement, and we've had a lot of interest already. We're also introducing a six-seat family wagon, the Exiga, late in the year. This will expand our appeal to families, with a versatile and spacious cabin that underlines the clever use of interior space by Subaru engineers.

All Torque: Is Subaru exploring hybrid or other “low carb” alternatives?

NS: We demonstrated the plug-in STELLA electric concept in the lead-up to Melbourne Motor Show. This four-door micro car has a range of 80 kilometres, a top speed of 100 km/h and can be recharged to 80 per cent of capacity in just 15 minutes, using a special fast charger, or plugged into a home outlet overnight for a full recharge. This car is going into limited production for sale in the Japan domestic market as a city commuter, from June. It's an exciting development which will be refined and developed considerably in the coming years.

All Torque: Will Subaru diesels find their way into other models here in Australia?

As mentioned, we will launch Outback diesel at the year's end. We've had some cars on test and have been delighted and amazed by the fuel consumption figures we've returned. Depending upon the level of interest, yes, we may have the option to expand this engine into other models in our range.

Subaru has 106 dealers across Australia with an excellent rural and regional coverage from Broken Hill to Kalgoorlie.

For more information about Subaru vehicles, call 1800 22 66 43 to find your local dealer or visit the comprehensive website: www.subaru.com.au

Hummer – 4WD That’s OUT TH3RE

2009-05-02T11:38:00.000+10:30

OUTthere 59 - All Torque

Like the original GP (General Purpose) “Jeep” of WWII, the modern equivalent, the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV or Humvee®) will go down in history as one of the most successful, widely used military vehicles of all time.

After a successful bid by AMC (American Motors Corp) in 1981, the US Government awarded an initial contract for 55,000 units and the rest is, as they say, history. Some 200,000 vehicles are now in use by more than 50 nations’ armed forces, paramilitaries and civilian defence units.

With their high profile success in military operations such as ‘Desert Storm’ during the 1990s, there was a predictable demand for a civilian version and the H1 was conceived. Based on the original Humvee platform, you won’t get ballistic protection as standard, nor will “machine gun turret’ appear on your option list. The H1 was discontinued in 2006.

AM General sold the ‘Hummer’ brandname to GM in 1999 and began producing the H2 based on existing commercial truck chassis platforms with only external similarity to the original Humvee. Engines are 6 litre petrol V8s compared to most H1s being fitted with 6+ litre V8 diesels.

Introduced in 2006 and powered by a 3.7 litre, five cylinder petrol engine producing 180kW and 328 Nm, the H3 shares its platform with GM stablemates, Colorado and Canyon. In Australia, the H3 is available in both manual and automatic transmission connected to a two-speed, electronically-controlled, full-time 4WD system with both stability and traction control.

Sold as a mid-size SUV the interior, including luggage space is constrained and a bit difficult to pack a full holiday. Two passengers can fold the rear seat for added capacity.

The H3’s road manners are surprisingly good, delivering a smooth, confident ride and easy steering. Off road, the little H3 is a proper 4WD and made easy work of the tasks we threw at it. Shallow river fording, rocky and slippery exits, bumps, humps and trenches were all consumed with ease. Decent underbody clearance (216mm) with limited front and rear overhang meant we never scraped anything. Even if you want to extend the H3’s capabilities, an optional Adventure pack is available, adding $6k to the pricetag.

The petrol engine is adequate but not startling and is rated at 13.5 litres/100km for the auto transmission and slightly less for the manual. Payload is about 430kg and towing with the automatic transmission is a generous 2 tonnes. Fuel tank capacity is 87 litres. A turbo diesel variant is being discussed and would be welcome addition to the range.

The base model H3 sells for $52,990 up to $60,990 for full specification luxury and is sold through 21 dedicated dealers nationwide. See: www.hummeraustralia.com.au.

For those hankering for the heavy metal, H2 Hummers are available by private import through American Vehicle Sales in Melbourne typically upward of $100k. See: www.hummer.com.au

Want to drive one but don’t want to own one? The Supercar Club includes a spanking 6.0 litre, black Hummer H2 as part of its membership fleet of exotic sports cars, sedans, SUVs and coupés. Members pay an annual fee to drive their collection of otherwise unattainable cars that also includes a Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera and a $1.3million Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe. See: www.supercarclub.com.au

Stop Press: At time of writing, General Motors was still reviewing its options for the Hummer brand which could include outright sale or closure. Apparently interest has been shown by automakers in India, China and Russia with India’s Mahindra the most likely contender.

Holden Celebrates 60 Years as “Australia’s Own”

2009-04-01T22:59:00.000+11:00

OUT There 58 - All Torque

Roderick Eime reviews the Lion’s progress.

Before General Motors Holden re-occupied their factory at Fishermen’s Bend after the Second World War, the product was flying out the door at 500mph.

During the desperate days of WWII, Fishermen’s Bend was turning out Beauforts and Beaufighers and developing the superior interceptor, the CA-15 Kangaroo. But with the end of war in sight, it was decided that Australia should develop its own car and the 48-215 (FX) was born inside the war machine.

The stylish, American-designed 6-seater was an instant best seller and now, 60 years later, Holden’s mainstay is still the country’s top selling sedan. Commodore first hit the streets in 1978 (VB), borrowing designs, not from the USA, but from European sibling, Opel. The venerable 202ci (3.3 litre), six cylinder engine still owed much of its technology to the original 132ci (2.15 litre) six in the 1948 FX.

The clunky 202 finally gave way to a silky smooth Nissan-sourced 3-litre SOHC six for the 1986 VL model. In 1988, the all-new top-to-bottom VN Commodore was released powered by the Buick 3.8 litre V6. The old-tech pushrod design drew murmurs from the critics, but the new Commodore was just the weapon Holden needed to counter its main rival, the Ford Falcon. By 1996, the Commodore was back on top and that’s where it has stayed.

Sales figures for 2008 released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries show Australians purchased a total of 51,093 vehicles from the VE Commodore range.

Apart from the Kingswood-Commodore mainstay Holden, through GM international family brands Isuzu, Opel, Vauxhaul and Chevrolet, have introduced a wide variety of vehicles into the Australian market. From tiny Barinas to the gargantuan Suburban and Hummers, the range has had a model to suit all tastes and budgets.

Rural buyers have always been loyal to the Red Lion, buying utes, sedans and workhorses like the Rodeo. From 1980, the Isuzu-built Rodeo has been a popular 2WD and 4WD cab and trayback model for farm and trade work. In 2008, Holden introduced the Colorado model, based on the new generation Isuzu D-Max. In something of a marketing and branding shuffle, Isuzu D-Max utes will now also be sold and serviced separately through a new, independent dealership network.

In the dedicated 4WD and SUV market, Holden pinned its fortunes on the dainty Jackaroo for twenty years. Another rebadged Isuzu product known elsewhere in the world as Trooper and Monterey, it was discontinued in 2003. The AWD Adventra (Commodore) filled the gap uneasily until the introduction of Captiva in 2006.

Built by GM subsidiary Daewoo, the Captiva was inspired by the Chevrolet S3X concept unveiled at motor shows around the world in 2004. The style thematic is common across modern urban SUVs such as Honda’s CRV, Audi X3 and Volvo XC60 giving it a contemporary and sophisticated look. Today’s Captiva is certainly a long way removed from the early bouncy, boxy Jackaroos.

The man on the land, this land in particular, invariably has long distances to travel. Cruisey sedan-based, long wheelbase limousines like the Statesman have been a part of the Holden line-up since the legendary HQ was introduced in 1971. To counter the market domination by Ford’s Fairlane, Statesman added three inches to the wheelbase with most of the space dedicated to rear passenger legroom.

Statesman (and the up-rated Caprice) has always occupied the position of flagship in the Holden passenger range. The latest incarnation (WM) appeared in 2006. Powered by the current 3.6 litre V6 and 6.0 litre V8, the model is exported and rebadged under Buick, Daewoo and Chevrolet to such markets as Korea, China and the Middle East. As of Januray 2009, the V8 range will feature new Active Fuel Management (AFM) technology. Known elsewhere as “cylinder deactivation”, the system will cut fuel to four cylinders under light load to improve fuel efficiency.

Holden’s crystal ball shows a new small car production line planned for Adelaide in 2010 that will give the Australian automotive industry a new focus and pave the way for alternate fuel technologies like LPG, ethanol blends and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

To recall Henry Ford’s famous quote; “You can have any colour you like as long as it’s black.” It seems GM green is the new black.

[ View as magazine layout PDF ]

The Supercar Club

2009-03-08T20:41:00.000+11:00

The Supercar Club garage is home to an immaculate collection of sports and luxury cars including top of the range Maserati, Porsche, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley and Rolls Royce models as well as lightweight track specials and cult off-roaders.

The fleet is constantly updated, giving members access to the world's best cars without the setbacks of depreciation, insurance and maintenance.

Membership costs range from $17 000 to $72 000 annually, along with a one-off joining fee. In return, members are allocated a pool of points that they trade for days in their choice of the Club's cars. There are several levels of membership and members typically receive from 20 to 80 days driving per year, depending on which level they join and what cars they drive.

If you don't want to fork out the big bucks consider taking in part in one of The Supercar Club's Drive Days through The Hunter Valley, Mornington Peninsula or Gold Coast Hinterland. Discover your inner Bond behind the wheel of five different cars throughout the day including top of the range Aston Martin, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin and Lotus models. Drive Days are $1, 320 and that includes a gourmet lunch and refreshments at pit stops along the way.

The Supercar Club operates out of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. For more information visit www.thesupercarclub.com.au or call 1300 798 900.

Tech Spot: Dropped Pots Not New

2009-03-05T22:49:00.003+11:00

OUT There 57 - All Torque

With Honda beating the cylinder deactivation technology drum in their new TV ads for fuel-sipping Accord, you’d think this was the latest thing.

Also known as “Variable Displacement”, the concept has been around in one form or another almost as long as we’ve had cars and engines.

The idea is simple; it involves shutting down banks of cylinders according to engine load to reduce fuel consumption. It works best in V-engines with opposing pairs.

First seriously trialled during WWII, it wasn’t adopted commercially until Cadillac installed a V8-6-4 in their Seville model in 1981. In short it was a disaster and dealers resorted to deactivating the inadequate computer module to run the engines as full-time V8s. Mitsubishi had more success in the ‘90s, but also dropped the idea due to poor buyer response.

Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz and GM are all back in the “multi-displacement” arena now too.

With leaps in computer technology, Honda reintroduced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) in their J-Series engines powering the award-winning, 8th generation V6 Accord and Odyssey.

Honda’s VCM in the 202kW 3.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC V6 deactivates specific cylinders by using the VTEC (Variable Valve-Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system to close the intake and exhaust valves while a control module cuts fuel to those cylinders. When operating on three cylinders, the rear cylinder bank is shut down. When running on four cylinders, the left and centre cylinders of the front bank operate, and the right and centre cylinders of the rear bank operate.

Mixed Messages for 2009 Vehicle Sales

2009-03-02T22:47:00.000+11:00

While all brands acknowledge a trailing off of vehicle sales last year, there was definitely a silver-lining to Australia’s new vehicle sales figures.

Over one million new vehicles were sold in 2008, only the second time ever the seven-figure mark was reached. Toyota Australia delivered 238,983 vehicles, 2336 more than its previous record set in the boom sales year of 2007. Despite stiff competition from Toyota’s thrifty Corolla, Holden’s venerable Commodore was the best selling single vehicle for the 13th year straight.

“Sales in December held up well with buyers taking advantage of the many competitive opportunities available in the marketplace,” said Andrew McKellar, chief executive of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

“We must be realistic about the outlook for the year ahead and acknowledge the impact that the global financial crisis is having on the broader economy,” he said.

“Nonetheless there are positives that will underpin demand in 2009, including lower fuel prices, reduced interest rates and the impact of additional fiscal measures implemented by the Federal Government,” Mr McKellar said.

Light commercial vehicles were a major contributor to the overall market result with the segment increasing 4.2 per cent during 2008.

The FCAI forecasts that 880,000 new vehicles will be sold during 2009.

Despite nervousness in many sectors, the cavalcade of 2009 new vehicle releases rolls on.

Audi will be particularly busy with their new A3 Sportback TFSI quattro in 1.4 and 2.0 litre. A new RS6 sedan, Q5 and S4 are due and a facelift for A6.

Ford are revealing a new Fiesta and facelifting Territory, Focus and Ranger.

Despite shelving their US export plans for the sauced-up ute, there will be an update for Commodore that will include cylinder-deactivation technology to improve fuel efficiency.

Any new model from the innovative Subaru stable is always eagerly anticipated and 2009 will see a new generation Liberty rumoured to be bigger, sexier and uprated.

Honda’s sub-$30k Insight hybrid should excite green car buyers when it arrives late in ’09, while the other eco-option, Toyota’s Prius appears in an upgraded Generation Three format with a solar roof as optional.

Under “unusual and surprising”, expect to see a 4-door Porsche sedan and diesel Cayenne, a mid-size Suzuki, a mini Alfa, a Chinese Chery and GM’s almost-forgotten Cadillac return to our shores.

OUTthere Magazine

2009-01-16T23:59:00.006+11:00

OUTthere Magazine is the official inflight publication for REX (inc. Air-Link), Skywest, AirNorth, and Pel-Air.

Distribution Statistics
Total Passengers: 1.6M; Number of Ports: 37

Rod has provided automotive content to OUTthere with his regular column "All Torque"

See 2009 Media Kit (includes airline route maps)

OUTthere is published by Edge Custom Media

Tray Bien - 4x4 Tray back utes

2009-01-11T17:40:00.006+11:00

OUTthere 56 - All Torque

See layout in PDF

The workhorse of the rural sector, the trusty 4x4 trayback utility has provided a hardworking vehicle for the “man on the land”. Despite the unchallenged cult popularity of the sedan-based ute, sometimes a 2WD just won’t cut it.

Troopy to the Rescue – LandCruiser 70 Series

Out and out the most popular in this category, the Landcruiser 70 Series “Troop Carrier” has long set the benchmark for reliability and sheer durability.

Now with eight models in the all-diesel range including Toyota’s first turbo diesel V8, the 70 Series will continue to set the pace. The 4.5-litre, 32-valve, 151kW turbocharged and intercooled, high-pressure-injection engine is standard equipment on all models.

To give some insight, Toyota commissioned its own research and found that the predecessor to Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series, on which it is based, fulfils the major requirements of its target market.

Seventy-four per cent of LC78 owners have previously owned a Toyota, while almost two out of three of them will replace their current LandCruiser with another one.

The research said the typical buyer in this market was male, married, with an average age of 48 with towing capability and mechanical reliability as the two major priorities for heavy four-wheel-drive buyers. Load-carrying capacity was ranked third, followed by body workmanship.

Entry level cab chassis Workmate starts at $53,490 with air-conditioning an option at $2640.

Indians! – Mahindra Pik-Up

In June 2007, Sydney’s huge family-owned Tynan Motor Group formed TMI Pacific P/L to import and distribute Indian-built Mahindra motor vehicles in Australia. As of November 2008, a new joint venture company Mahindra Automotive Australia, will be 80 per cent owned by the Indian parent, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

Built like the proverbial brick outhouse, and based on early Willys Overland chassis technology, the addition of the Peugeot family 79kW 2.5l common-rail turbo diesel brings these vehicles up to locally-acceptable spec.

Playing on their price point advantage, frill-free Pik-Up is a no-nonsense worker with plenty of cab room.

Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Single Cab 4x4 is $ 26,990 (RRP Inc GST)

Going Forward - Nissan Patrol

The popular and often undersung competitor in this range is the big Nissan Patrol cab chassis ute. The 4.2 litre diesel is now replaced by a 3.0 turbo of 118kW driving through a five-speed manual transmission.

The bold new look is just over 12 months old with exterior changes bringing it into line with the Patrol wagon and Nissan’s trademark “four-wheel drive family” grille, new headlamps and revised front fender and bonnet.

DX Leaf spring rear is priced from $49,790 with a/c standard.

You’re D-Man - Isuzu D-MAX

One of the world’s most popular utes, the Isuzu D-MAX, is being launched to Australian one-tonne ute and light truck customers at very competitive prices through a newly-appointed national network of Isuzu UTE dealers. Out to tackle class-leading Tpyota Hi-Lux head-on, this will be an interesting stoush.

The 11-model range is all 120kW 3.0 litre turbo intercooled diesel-powered with class-leading fuel economy. 4x2 is also available.

Recommended retail prices start from just $27,800 in the 4x4 range for the EX single cab-chassis manual – and that’s with air.

Better Now – Mazda BT-50

Just revitalized, Mazda’s BT-50 range should raise Mazda's reputation as one of the fastest growing brands in the light commercial segment. Five new 4x4 models bring the number of BT-50 variants available to 29, offering 2.5 litre or 3.0 litre common-rail turbodiesels with 5-speed transmissions.

Most of us will remember the trusty, if unremarkable Bravo series, badge-shared with Ford’s Courier. The new 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine developing 115kW will power the 4x4 segment of the BT-50 range with the 2.5 or 3.0 available in the 4x2s.

Prices for the 4x4 range start at $31,415 for the 3.0L Single Cab Chassis DX (no airbags) with 5-speed manual

TIPS FOR TAKING YOUR 4WD OFF-ROAD THIS SUMMER

2008-01-08T19:56:00.000+11:00

Source: Land Rover

The chance to take your Land Rover off-road and explore its capabilities in the great outdoors is one of the most enjoyable elements of ownership. If you are planning to go off-road this summer, it's important you take time to prepare yourself and your vehicle to ensure maximum comfort and safety during your journey. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Travel with at least one other vehicle and stay on established routes. If one 4WD gets stuck or disabled, the other one can assist. If you go on your own, take a mobile phone (but remember mobiles have limited coverage) or 2-way radio. Make sure you also tell someone where you are going and what route you plan to follow.

Know your vehicle's dimensions - height, width, length, approach angle, departure and ramp angles - so you can pass through tight areas without damage.

Check water, high grass and mud crossings for hidden obstacles such as logs, rocks and holes before crossing.

Keep your thumbs on the steering wheel and out of the spokes. Steering wheel kickback on rough roads can cause injuries.

Be aware of the surrounding terrain and changing conditions. Look in all directions as well as in front of the vehicle, so you know what lies ahead.

Keep windows shut to avoid objects intruding into the cabin.

To find out more about driving off-road from the experts, be one of the first to order a free copy of Land Rover's four-wheel driving DVD, The Essential Guide to Off-Road Driving. Order here by providing your full mailing address and contact number in the email. Copies of the DVD are limited, so please respond early to avoid disappointment.

Lewis Hamilton: New Year's Resolution

2007-11-26T22:53:00.001+11:00

When Lewis Hamilton stumbled in his last race of the 2007 season and ultimately lost his chance for a debut F1 World Championship, the critics were ready. But what the detractors overlook is the incredible triumph it was just to be there.

The presumption with Formula One drivers is that they are the children of privilege; precocious, pernicious brats born into sporting royalty. Certainly some do all they can to confirm that prejudice. Schumacher, for all his undeniable talent, had a mean streak a mile wide. Mansell, one of the most entertaining drivers you’ll ever see, was a legendary dummy-spitter and double world champion, Fernando Alonso, Hamilton’s teammate and by default his greatest rival, would step over the line in his quest to retain the title.

Yet throughout that tumultuous season, my greatest memory will be the unqualified sportsmanship and dignity shown by the newest kid on the block. Despite some dirty tricks and stinging barbs, he stayed above it all, focused on his ultimate prize.

"I don't know if I particularly believe that 'win at all costs' is the way forward," Hamilton is quoted as saying.

It is no surprises then that some of the largest egos in the world belong to Formula One drivers, and when a young black kid from the wrong side of town to turns up and starts whipping them, there are bound to be sparks.

Perhaps the most obvious example was the furor created during the so-called “trial by YouTube” when a spectator posted amateur footage of the controversial Japanese GP safety car incident that took out Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel. Webber, with an appalling finishing record and relentlessly dogged by bad luck, blamed Hamilton for erratic driving, but was later cleared after an FIA inquiry.

Author Timothy Collings, who assisted Lewis with the writing of his autobiography ‘My Story’, was straight up with his inquiry.

“So Lewis, why do you think some of the other drivers don’t like you?

Hamilton, as sharp with his wit as he is with the throttle replied;

“Because I’m black, quick and a nice person.”

Asked, in 2006, whether he thought his colour would create a sort of “Tiger Woods” effect, replied "It's more a thing for the media to talk about. Being the first black man doesn't matter much to me personally, but for the sport itself it probably means quite a lot."

But let’s step away from the issue of ethnicity and look dispassionately at Hamilton’s arrival. He came from a broken home in a rough council estate and went to a school where he was picked on.

Collings again;

“Lewis developed his inner steel, belief and determination out of a disciplined response to life's worst setbacks. Hamilton was a British kart champion at 10. Yet at primary school, he was bullied. He was small, lacked confidence and felt immature. But he had great inner determination and, with support from his father, he began karate lessons. By the time he was 12, he had a black belt.

“Yet Lewis lacked confidence and it took him years to find it. The discovery of karts, on a family holiday to Ibiza in 1988, when he was only three, followed at home by remote-control car racing, in which he excelled, revealed a talent and fired an obsession.”

Murray Walker, the almost retired F1 commentator and intensely parochial Pom, almost sheds a tear when asked about Hamilton.

“I have people coming up to me all the time in my local village of Ringwood, in Hampshire, saying: "Murray, is this Lewis Hamilton as good as people say he is?" and I say: "No. He is better."

“You are supposed to be neutral, but in the end you are British. Nigel was one of us, and my mate. So, too, Damon (Hill) and James (Hunt). I make no apology for getting behind them. And now we have Lewis, a boy's own hero come to life.”

After winning that now famous 1995 British karting title at age ten, Hamilton approached McLaren F1 team boss Ron Dennis at the Autosport Awards evening that December for an autograph, and boldly proclaimed he intended to drive for him one day.

Taken a little aback, Dennis apparently wrote in his autograph book, "Phone me in nine years, we'll sort something out then." But clearly Dennis, his interest piqued, could not wait and signed the cheeky lad just three years later, making Hamilton (at 13) the youngest driver ever recruited by an F1 team.

"I was amazed by his self-confidence, and thought to myself that this boy can really go places," said Dennis recalling the moment.

Under Dennis’s remote guidance and tutelage, Hamilton went on to dominate very race series he entered prior to 2007.

But now with the tribulations of that defining debut season behind him, his otherwise flawless reputation slightly chipped, but his dignity firmly intact, how does Hamilton intend to approach 2008?

Mark Blundell, former F1 driver and Hilton Racing Ambassador, says, "The next part of the journey will be fascinating. If things pan out as we think now that Alonso has left McLaren, then Hamilton becomes their number one. That is a new dimension again. This year he had the element of surprise. He won't have that in 2008. Expectations are now sky high. He has to deliver in new circumstances. We are all in new territory with him."

Sources:

Telegraph Media Group Limited (UK)
Timothy Collings
www.mclaren.com

Saloon Kings

2007-10-15T13:53:00.000+10:30

When going for a saloon, the choice now isn’t just whether you go for Australian, Japanese or European. It comes down to value for money, performance and of course practicality. By Roderick Eime.

The maxi saloon is the fundamental accoutrement of the successful businessperson. It transports you in the manner you deserve, acknowledges your hard work and sacrifice and announces your arrival. We survey the luxury saloon market and discover that, although there is no substitute for cubic dollars, there are also some surprisingly well-priced machines with impressive CVs.

The Cars are Stars

2007-08-20T15:00:00.000+10:30

Issue 10

With summer almost upon us, movie goer and car buff, Roderick Eime, looks at the allure of the convertible and its enduring screen presence.

The image of Thelma and Louise and their 1966 Thunderbird convertible plummeting over the precipice in the heart-wrenching finale of the 1991 cult classic is perhaps the scene that will always define the character of the convertible in popular culture. Freedom, hedonism and a touch of rebelliousness will always epitomise the top-down attitude. James Dean and his ultimately tragic Porsche 550 Spyder absolutely cemented the “Rebel Without a Cause” into the romantic psyche.

Thanks to Hollywood, the image of the convertible roadster will always hold the appeal of a car constructed purely for enjoyment and allure. The DHC (Drop Head Coupe) has featured large in movies with style and sensuality as their theme. Dustin Hoffman’s Alfa Spider Duetto in the Graduate, the Chevrolet Corvette in Route 66 or even the tortured Ferrari 250 in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off all invoke the free-spirited, fun-loving pleasure-seeker so often portrayed on the big screen.

Here’s a rolling credit of famous convertibles and their co-stars - and we match them to their latter-day showroom equivalents.

Ferrari

The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California is one of the rarest Ferraris of all time, with only about 100 ever built. And when the lunatic car park attendants thrash it to within an inch of its life in Ferris Beuller’s Day Off and it’s later wrecked when launched out of a window, Ferrari fans were in uproar. Relax, the film car was a replica built on an MGB chassis. Nevertheless, Ferrari were so incensed at this, they sued the replica company.

F430 Spider

Released in Australia in mid-2005, the F430 gloriously perpetuates the Ferrari convertible heritage, offering the topless versions as a premium alternative to the coupe. The F430’s Pininfarina styling, both in hardtop and convertible, are derived from the iconic “shark nose” design of the 1961 F1 car that took Phil Hill to world championship status.

Long gone are the painstaking procedures of stowing the hood. This stylistic flourish comes courtesy of a soft top system designed to take up a minimum of space. The fully-lined electric hood is completely automatic, and is opened and closed by seven electrohydraulic actuators. The hood folds over twice before disappearing completely into a well just ahead of the engine compartment, leaving the engine in full view at all times.

The F430 has a top speed of 305 km/h thanks to its mid-mounted 360kW, 4.3 litre V8 and the price? A cool, $425,000, but the waiting list is well over 12 months.

For dreamers, there is always the 320 km/h SuperAmerica V12. Just six of these incredible beauties came to Australia last year and despite the $650,000 price tag were sold before they rolled off the ship. Keep an eye out for one.

BWM Z8

When James Bond parked his “shaken not stirred” derriere in the sublimely retro-styled aluminium-bodied Z8 in "The World Is Not Enough", everybody wanted one. But BMW were determined to make the Z8 a rare beast and only three of the 5700 production run ever found their way to Australia in mid-2000. Priced at $328,000, they were snapped up by avid collectors despite the fact that the left-hand-drive-only could never be registered for road use. Now out of production, the Z8 shares the identical 294kW, 5.0 litre, high-revving V8 as the M5 and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a trifling 4.7 secs.

Despite tantalising us with the likes of the Z8, BMW has always maintained a selection of stylish cabriolets for us regular drivers. The 3 Series convertible is best expressed in the just-released, top-of-the-line 335i with its all-aluminium Twin Turbo 225 kW straight-six engine. The 335i is priced at $104,500

Again, the roof is a breeze, excuse the pun, and it takes just 22 seconds for the fully-lined retractable hardtop to unfold itself from behind the rear seats. The three-piece lightweight steel roof provides both superior sound insulation and extremely large windows for excellent visibility.

The venerable Z-Series is retained in the delightful Z4 which starts at $78,000 for the 2.5 litre manual version, or go the whole hog for the Z4 M - $94,000

Alfa Romeo Spider

Despite its diminutive size and “entry level” status, the Alfa Romeo Spider had an inordinate effect on movie goers when it starred alongside Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft in the 1967 smash hit, “The Graduate”. Just one year after its official launch at the 36th Geneva Motor Show, the Pininfarina-designed soft-top was an instant success and began a production dynasty that continued until 1993.

Today the Alfa Romeo Spider enjoys a renaissance with two models superseding the last of those built on the original 105 series chassis. The current model, powered by either a 2.2 litre, 136 kW 4 cylinder or the state-of-the-art 191 kW 3.2 litre Quad Cam V6 in AWD is a quantum leap from 1966. Even then, the ground-breaking Duetto, with 4-wheel discs and 5-speed transmissions, was similarly cutting edge.

As with most modern convertibles, the Spider’s hood is fully automatic and tucks away unobtrusively to produce a seamless, streamlined sports car. The 2.2 litre version starts at $76,950 while the more desirable 3.2 V6 kicks off at $100,950

Mercedes-Benz

A firm favourite with the Californian glitterati, the sexy SL, CLK and SLK roadsters are always popping up in the glamorous TV series and movies. Spotters will notice the CLK in ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘Havoc’ and SLK in The OC, but the CLK gets bare-chested in Mission Impossible 3 when Tom Cruise commandeers one for a heart-stopping dash to rescue his wife.

Celebrity owners include Britney Spears (SLK McLaren), Colleen McLoughlin, Wayne Rooney’s missus (SLK), Lindsay Lohan (SL65 AMG) and Carmen Electra (SL-Series)

The prestige CLK convertible coupe comes in a range of models from mild to wild. Starting at $99,400 for the supercharged 200K right up to the hair-raising AMG 63 V8 with 354kW on tap; just $214,000.

The compact SLK is traditionally the more affordable model. Smaller and strictly a two seater, save the SUV for the supermarket. You’ll look fine on Rodeo Drive in the entry-level SLK 200K (1.8 litre supercharged, 120kW) at $88,374. Max out the AMEX with a 55 AMG (V8, 265kW, 5.4 litre) at $164,474.

Move into the SL-Class statusphere and here you’ll find the real pedigree machines. With a racing and performance heritage back to the great road races of the ‘50s with Stirling Moss at the wheel, SL-Class Roadsters don’t come cheap. Starting at $214,000 will get you the SL 350 V6. Serious shoppers can go kick the tyres on a SL 65 AMG with bi-turbo V12. This 450kW racing car costs $415,900.

Porsche

Porsche, celebrity, sports car and glamour can be said in the same breath. To list the movies and Hollywood-owners of Porsche 911s would fill this issue, but the defining event in Porsche’s rise to ultra-desirable status occurred when movie bad-boy, James Dean, died behind the wheel of his now legendary 550 RS roadster “Little Bastard” in 1955. The circumstances of the crash have always remained controversial and the recovered wreck and its parts were believed to be cursed as they went on to cause more mayhem until the car mysteriously vanished in transit in 1960, never to be seen again. Jerry Seinfeld owns a flawless 550 and is a regular concours winner.

Other notable Porsche convertible owners include David Beckham, Tom Cruise and Britney Spears.

In the spirit of the 550, Porsche continue to release sports-orientated, pared down roadsters for the general market. The Boxster range was recently revamped with larger engines and the latest Boxster S now totes a mid-engine 3.4 litre flat six of 217kW giving it real cache among its higher priced stablemates like the 911 and 911 Turbo. Starting money is $108,000 for the 2.7 litre (180kW) Boxster, but if money is no object, the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet (3.8 litre, 261kW) will set you back $265,100 with Tiptronic transmission.

For the Rest of Us

Lexus SC430

Although it may not crow legend status yet, the beautifully refined Lexus SC430’s list of movie credits grows too with The OC, Terminator 3, CSI, 24 and Legally Blonde 2. The SC430 is a very driveable car, far removed from the blowy drop-tops of old. The exemplary aerodynamics is one of the standout features of the SC430, painstakingly designed to deliver the sheer thrill of a top-down spring or summer drive without constantly attacking the coiffure. Tyra Banks loves hers.

An all-alloy Quad Cam 4.3 litre VVT-i V8 delivers an inspirational 210kW when the mood takes you. The option-free SC430 is priced at $162,074

Holden Astra

Still waiting for its big break in the movies, the Holden (Opel) Astra nevertheless offers the best of both worlds. In top down mode you have a stylish convertible for summer and a glamorous hard-top coupe for winter. Best referred to as a “retractable hard-top”, the roof cleverly stows itself in the boot in a totally hands-free operation

Mazda MX-5

Who are Tia and Mia? They are the cheeky little cheerleaders in the 2006 animated hit, Cars. In overseas markets, the MX-5 is known as Miata.

In many ways, the pint-sized MX-5 has become the modern epitome of an affordable sports car. In a genre once dominated by the likes of MGB and Triumph, the purpose-built, superbly engineered little rocket has created a cult status for itself since introduction way back (can you believe it) in 1989.

Cleverly designed to a “timeless” classic line resembling the early Lotus Elan, the MX-5 is everything a fun little roadster should be and with sales of 750 thousand worldwide, it will be with us for a long time yet. True, sales are at their lowest since introduction, but the all-new 2.0 litre third generation MX-5 is just starting to make its presence felt. Grab one for $42,870 upwards.

Snapshots:

Audi TT Roadster

Starring Roles: Mission Impossible 2, Legally Blonde 2

Relaunched in June this year, both the award-winning 2.0 TFSI and potent 3.2 V6 engine, with S tronic transmission, are available for Australian buyers, priced at $77,500 and $92,900 respectively.

Breakout:

Spider or Spyder? What does it mean? The term so often applied to convertible cars, particularly those of Italian origin, has nothing to do with the common eight-legged, web-weaving arachnid. Ask an Italian to pronounce “spider” and you have “speeder”. True.

A cabriolet, like so many car terms, was derived from its horse-drawn equivalent; namely a light, two-wheeled cart with a folding top. Convertible is the interchangeable term more favoured in the American market.

A ‘roadster’ is a more basic form of convertible, traditionally a 2-seater without roll-up windows or even a proper roof. A barchetta is an Italian roadster.

Best of Both Worlds

2007-08-16T09:46:00.000+10:30

OUTthere 40 – All Torque

The latest line-up of convertibles features fully retractable hard-tops.

Summer will be here before you know it – and what better way to spend it than cruising the boulevard in you new convertible? The traditional thinking is that cool drop-tops are the domain of the well-heeled Rodeo Drive set, but OUTthere has surveyed the market and found a handful of affordable convertible coupes for the rest of us.

German Design Comes Down Under

Holden Astra Twin Top (Convertible Coupe)
2.2 litre Direct Injection ECOTEC. DOHC 16 valves 110kW
6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions
RRP $ $45,490 manual $47,490 auto
3 year / 100,000 km warranty

The Twin-Top is so called thanks to its truly convertible nature. It can be transformed from smart hard-top coupe to topless in just 30 seconds thanks to an one-touch, electrically retractable hardtop. Just keep your eyes on the skies and don’t get caught in any sudden downpours.

A convertible has been offered in the Astra range since 2001, but this latest version adopts the increasingly popular trend towards retractable hardtops (CCs) now vogue on many higher priced European models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The trade-off between higher security and comfort is that, when retracted, the roof consumes virtually all of the boot space.

Driving the new German-designed Astra is a delightful exercise. Out test car, the 6-speed manual, provided satisfying zest from the larger four-cylinder engine which hums along sweetly, powering through the front wheels thanks to twin overhead camshafts and sixteen valves. Holden have chosen the more reliable chain-driven timing gear, but this doesn’t create undue engine noise despite higher revs.

Trim isn’t lavish, but it is neat and clean with the now familiar centre control console containing all the adjustments for climate control and CD player with a uppermost display panel for system status.

Although the rear seats are small, they are still useable, making this a full 5-seater.

Cannes Coupe

Peugeot 207CC
1.6 litre DOHC 16 valve 88kW
5-speed manual or 4-speed auto
RRP $34,990 1.6 Manual ($39,990 Turbo)
3 year / 100,000 kilometre warranty

This new pint-sized Pug follows on from the success of its convertible forebear, the 206CC, providing a compact, fun runabout ideal for the Cote d’Azure.

The economical Peugeot/Citroen/BMW 1.6 litre engine is a modest powerplant, but drives smoothly and economically through the front wheels. The automatic version, while a useful inclusion in the range, negates much of the driving experience and transforms the car into a relatively docile shopping trolley. The manual-only turbo is like driving another car altogether. It has a decidedly racy feel and restores the fundamental rush of driving a true sports coupe. The body is taut and rigid with positive, confident sports handling.

The interior is minimalist but entirely functional and all controls are with easy reach and intuitively laid out. All functions could be deciphered without recourse to the manual, which is very handy for men who resist instructions.

The rear seats, although fitted, are not suitable for fully-formed adults but do provide space for a several shopping bags and are smartly finished with twin rollover hoops reminiscent of racing coupes.

Peugeot’s bold exterior styling and lurid colours ensure you won’t be overlooked.

Miata Goes Hard

Mazda MX-5
2.0 litre 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC S-VT 118kW
6-speed auto or manual
Price Range: $42,870 (Manual Soft Top) - $49,835 (Auto Coupe)
3 year / Unlimited kilometre warranty

In many ways, the purpose-designed MX-5 has become the modern epitome of an affordable sports car. In a genre once dominated by the likes of MGB and Triumph, the superbly engineered little rocket has created a cult status for itself since introduction way back (can you believe it) in 1989.

Cleverly designed to a “timeless” classic line resembling the early Lotus Elan, the MX-5 is everything a fun little roadster should be and with sales of 750 thousand worldwide, it will be with us for a long time yet. The all-new 2.0 litre, third generation MX-5 is just starting to make its presence felt in the market and now adds roadster coupe to the range with a retractable hard-top that it calls “Rigid Convertible”. It too is the fastest in the class with a lightning 12-second deployment.

The choice of either a 6-speed manual or Activematic provides another genuine point of difference for this rear-wheel-drive roadster.

New Things in Smaller Packages

2007-07-13T15:00:00.000+10:30

OUTthere 39 – All Torque

The motoring industry is witnessing the birth of a new genre of motor vehicle: the Premium Compact SUV.

The emergence of this new type of vehicle is not such a surprise and several prevailing factors are driving, excuse the pun, this development. Buyers are arriving at dealers with more money and higher expectations, but they are also sensitive to grandiose expressions of carbon-belching transport. Consequently, manufacturers are finding ways of packing high end accoutrements into smaller vehicles, in particular the SUV.

BMW are credited with leading this reverse charge with the 2004 introduction of their X3, offered as a kind of mini X5 for 3 Series buyers looking for a garage mate for their 325 or 330. But the exercise began awkwardly with critics identifying compromises like brash plastic interior trim and space-saver wheel coupled to a $65k (base) price tag. They were, however, unanimous in their praise for the X-drive 4WD system, which the little X3 shares with the full-size X5.

BMW revamped the X3, addressing some of the issues, with a new model in late 2006 offering three upgraded engine variants; a petrol 2.5 litre six, a sizzling 200kW 3.0 six and a very competent 3.0 turbo diesel. For the enviro-conscious, this economical and powerful (160kW) straight six is gaining lots of attention despite the $75k price tag.

In a much anticipated counter attack, iconic 4WD brand, Land Rover, recently launched their completely reworked Freelander, dubbed unsurprisingly, Freelander 2. The evocative TV campaign features a shiny 4WD transporting the young Gen Y male into a world of fantasy and adventure after an appointment with a stunning Asian clairvoyant. Despite this predictable marketing attempt, the new Freelander 2 reveals itself as an honestly impressive vehicle.

Land Rover endured years of biting criticism for their original Freelander which was victim to build quality issues and engine and transmission failures that had the warranty department working overtime. Their response was to start with a completely clean slate for Freelander 2, right down to the redesigned grille badge.

OUTthere was able to test this compact SUV much harder than any of its competitors under the scutinising eye of Land Rover executives. We can report it is a genuine off-road 4WD with much more capacity than 95 per cent of owners will ever ask of it. Our only reservation was the occasional underbody scuff due to a ride height not ideal for the heavy off-road work we subjected our test vehicles to.

Benchmarked against the leading vehicle in this class, the X3, Land Rover pitched the UK-built baby 4WD into the category at just under $50k. Even the high spec HSE 2.2 litre diesel tops out at $58k. Despite dismissive scoffs from the German marque, if the new little Land Rover can live up to claims of improved reliability and build quality, it is a genuine competitor in this new category of vehicle.

So who else is training their sights on this new arena?

Volvo signaled its intentions to compete with the XC60, a scale model of the well-received XC90 full-size 4WD. Currently in concept, the XC60 is slated for production in 2009, putting the Ford-owned Swedish marque off the radar for now.

Audi, again acknowledging what appears initially to be a European trend, have heralded the Q5 as a miniaturised version of their acclaimed Q7. Due to begin production in Germany next year, the Q5 will meet the X3 head-on, but Audi are also planning the Q3 to slot in one layer down.

Mercedes-Benz, predicably enough, are not about to be left out. Journalists were taunted recently in Austria with a cloaked prototype that stayed cloaked and instead were treated to display of strictly embargoed concept images. To be marketed under the label MLK, Mercedes-Benz promise to remove the covers at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. MLK is likely to be powered by the 3.0 and 3.5 litre V6s and spy shots indicate it will appear in a 4-door version.

Honda, who can claim some credit for launching the compact SUV category ten years ago with CR-V, upped the spec for their new model to knock on the door of the premium segment at almost $42k for the fully tricked model. CR-V, however, falls considerably short in the off-road stakes when compared to X3 or Freelander 2. But for those who live on the tarmac, it’s worth a test.

Jeep upset purists of this stalwart 4x4 marque with their release of Compass. It has many critics scratching their heads with this new, pint-sized Jeep. Looking for all the world like the baby brother of the big boy family, Compass brings everyday driveability and comfort to a brand known for rugged, outdoorsy looks - and commensurate ride and feel. Sure, it’s a softy, but it may be a Jeep that Mrs He-Man won’t mind jumping into. Fully sauced, the little Jeep just tips the $40k price point and boasts leather seats, CD-stacker, electronic stability control, airbags and intelligent 4WD.

Quattro on Q

2007-06-06T10:05:00.000+10:30

Test Car

Audi Q7 quattro permanent four-wheel drive
6-speed tiptronic automatic transmission
4.2-litre V8 with FSI petrol direct injection (257 kW)
RRP $116,800
ABC* rating: 683 points (3rd place)

With Audi’s quattro permanent four wheel drive system dating back to 1980, it’s surprising the company waited so long to introduce their first SUV. Either way, here it is: Audi’s superb Q7.

Originally launched with three engine configurations: a V6 and V8 petrol and a 3.0 turbo diesel, the range now includes the world’s most powerful diesel passenger, the truly awesome 375kW V12 TDI. With the diesel engine patented by a German over 100 years ago, it has taken a long time to reach this level of sophistication and now, especially with critical eyes looking at the fuel consumption of large SUVs, diesel power is a popular and sensible option. Claimed economy of the V8 is 13.6l/100km.

Out test vehicle was the powerful 257kW 7-seat variant and we spent much of our touring with six people aboard. In most seven seat models, the two rearmost seats are usually only suitable for children or undersize adults and in this respect the configuration was perfect. The two collapsible seats were still beautifully upholstered in leather and very comfortable. Across the range, up to 28 seating configurations are possible.

Although we didn’t test the extreme end of its 4WD ability, I’m assured the Q7 is up for a Simpson Desert crossing anytime you feel the urge. The V8 model features adaptive air suspension as standard that allows the driver to vary the ride height of the vehicle according to the terrain.

Bitumen touring is how you’d expect: smooth, quiet and effortless. The mighty V8 is almost silent at normal running speeds and still barely growls when urged. With full load, the acceleration is understandably subdued, but for a bit more excitement, flick over the tiptronic transmission to manual and drive through the six gears to your heart’s content.

Many of the truly high-end enhancements like sun roof, and radar-controlled vehicle distance monitoring are optional, but essentials like air conditioning, ABS, stability control and eight airbags are standard as is Audi’s signature build-quality and fully galvanized bodywork.

* The combined automotive authorities (NRMA, RACV etc) rated these vehicles recently in their famously impartial, annual Australia’s Best Cars (ABC) report.

CR-V: Compact, Reliable, Versatile

2007-04-07T22:16:00.000+10:30

From MotorWeb - Mo...

Report: Roderick Eime.
Photos: Honda Motor Company

CR-V is back with its sights set on regaining top-selling status in Compact SUVs.

Test Car:

* Honda CR-V Luxury
* 5-speed automatic with Grade Logic Control
* 2.4 litre 4 cylinder DOHC i-VTEC with VTC (125kW)
* RRP $41,990 as tested

Honda’s experience with All Wheel Drive and 4WD SUV vehicles in Australia has been mixed to say the least.

Buoyed by the overwhelming initial success of the CR-V in 1997, Honda introduced the smaller HR-V in 1999 and then the larger MDX in 2003. Both have since disappeared from the scene, leaving CR-V the only Honda soft-roader on the market.

Whether you take the “Compact Recreational Vehicle” or “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle” definition, it seems CR-V was the right sized package for Honda buyers all along. The little HR-V was only slightly cheaper, and the MD-X about double, with neither really catching buyers’ imagination. Now in its third generation, Honda is pinning its hopes on CR-V regaining top spot in the compact SUV segment currently owned by Toyota’s now grown-up RAV4. If the critics are right, it may just happen, with the new CR-V selling almost 1000 units in its first month, a very encouraging start.

Back in ’97, with little real competition, the CR-V quickly defined the compact SUV segment despite very limited credentials as a 4WD. Perhaps it was the intelligent interior layout, ease of driving and Honda build quality that set it apart and has since made it the one to catch. And catch it they did.

But let’s be up-front: the CRV is not really an off-road vehicle. It’s a smooth, pleasant and polite handling SUV that will behave well in difficult conditions like wet, slippery roads and unsealed surfaces, but is not so happy in bumpy, rough terrain. Honda, by its own admission, has retained the “Real-Time” 4WD system, but tuned suspension and handling for a more sedan-like quality.

Honda’s “Real Time” 4WD system is a “reactionary” one, similar to many, so-called soft-roaders. Front wheel drive almost all the time, it will activate the rear wheel drive on demand only, like slippery road conditions and dirt.

Honda has instead succeeded in making the new 2.4 litre CR-V a more capable road car, which is where the vast majority of CR-Vs will spend their lives. A 20mm lower ride height and repositioned spare wheel has effectively lowered the centre of gravity almost 35mm. This seems just a small amount, but will be noticeable to anyone who has driven earlier models. Factor in the new Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), advanced ABS and multiple airbags and you have the safest CR-V ever.

Styling wise, CR-V is still in the game, with its distinctive double layer grille and a hidden spare wheel, now relocated under the rear floor. This also allows for a vertically opening tailgate, instead of the barn-door of the old model. The makeover includes an arched window treatment that looks good from outside, but does reduce rear passenger outlook slightly. The overall impression though is one of new sophistication and chic that alone may induce some owners to trade up.

Survey the CR-Vs you see on the street and you’ll notice the popularity of the car with women drivers, especially those with young families. OUTthere tested our CR-V Luxury with the females and the verdict was encouraging. Typically they liked the delightful road manners, good visibility, easy parking, comfort, appointments and smart styling.

Going back to my earliest recollections of Japanese cars in the early ‘70s (I learned to drive in a 1973 Civic) I recall the all-but-flawless build quality that became the hallmark of the fully imported product. 35 years later, the world is a different place and Hondas are built all over the world. Most recently, we’re getting Civics, Accords and now the CR-Vs from Thailand and they, like the rest of the world, can’t match the Japanese for absolute build quality. Our test car’s tailgate wasn’t fitted perfectly and took a bit of effort to shut. A quick test on several other identical cars showed they all worked just fine. But we’d never get this quality car in Australia for under $40k, so this is the trade-off.

In summary, the new generation CR-V is a logical and intelligent revitalization to one of Honda’s most popular cars ever. Enjoyable and as easy to drive as ever, CR-V is back!

We Liked:

* Excellent road manners and handling
* Superior interior appointments for class
* High safety levels
* Good visibilty

If we had to be picky

* Test car had poor fitting rear tailgate
* Modest performance
* Noticeable road noise
* No manual override on auto trans

Australia's Best Cars

2007-04-07T20:16:00.000+10:30

Australia's Best Cars is the nation's most comprehensive and reliable consumer focused vehicle testing and award program. It was established as a joint initiative in 2000 by Australia's auto clubs, which represent almost 7 million members across the country. The 2006 Australia's Best Cars winners were announced in Sydney, December 6.

TOYOTA TO UNVEIL NEW BRAND, NEW VEHICLES

2007-03-16T18:39:00.000+11:00

Industry News:

TOYOTA TO UNVEIL NEW BRAND, NEW VEHICLES

Toyota will unveil a new brand, a concept vehicle and four new production models at next month's Melbourne International Motor Show.

Taking centre stage on the Toyota stand will be the new TRD brand and its first two performance-enhanced vehicles - a near-to-production TRD Aurion and a concept TRD HiLux.

Toyota will also display the new Euro-styled Corolla hatch, the sophisticated new Corolla sedan and the next-generation Kluger medium SUV, all to be seen in Australia for the first time.

Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said Toyota is aiming to consolidate its market leadership with these significant new models to be introduced in 2007.

"The performance-enhanced TRD vehicles, the new Corollas with their European-influenced design and the next-generation Kluger with the added flexibility of 2WD will provide a great boost to our line-up," Mr Buttner said.

"We will also have other surprises when the show opens on 2 March," he said.

Mr Buttner said the advent of TRD is an important development that will increase the desirability of the Toyota brand.

"It is the first time in the world TRD has been established as a separate brand under Toyota," Mr Buttner said.

"We are drawing on Toyota's 50 years of motorsport heritage to engineer and market a range of vehicles under the TRD banner.

"They will add a new dimension to the Toyota brand in Australia."

The TRD Aurion is expected to go on sale during the third quarter of this year.

Based on the Toyota Aurion large car introduced late last year, it features a supercharged 3.5-litre V6 engine with a development target of at least 235kW.

It will come with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual override and locally developed upgraded brakes and suspension.

The TRD Hilux Concept is based on a 4WD Double Cab with luminescent red paintwork embedded with gold flecks.

A production model is expected to go on sale before the end of the year, equipped with a supercharged 4.0-litre V6 engine.

Local engineering development and design have been carried out entirely by Toyota Australia, with final assembly carried out by our supplier Prodrive.

The new Corolla will be a feature of the Toyota stand - with a distinctive, sporty hatch and a sleek and sophisticated sedan.

The stylish and sophisticated Corolla will feature a more powerful 1.8-litre four-cylinder dual VVT-i petrol engine.

New Corolla is longer and wider than the current model, providing even more interior space for passengers and luggage.

Corolla is Australia's most popular small car and last month was the top-selling vehicle in the country - a feat it achieved twice last year.

Toyota is also providing a preview of the next-generation Kluger, fresh from its world debut earlier this month at the Chicago Auto Show.

For the first time, Kluger will be available in 2WD as well as all-wheel drive when it goes on sale during the third quarter of this year.

It will feature the dual VVT-i 3.5-litre V6 engine already seen in the Aurion large car and Tarago V6 people mover.

It is expected to develop around 200kW - the most power of any non-turbo soft medium SUV.

Available with five or seven seats, next-generation Kluger is longer, wider and taller than the current model.

It will offer more space for passengers - especially in the second and third rows.

Pajero Gets the Last Laugh

2007-03-04T12:17:00.000+11:00

Critics of Mitsubishi’s popular Pajero find the joke is on them.

Test Car

Mitsubishi Pajero NS GLX LWB five-door 4WD
6G75 V6 3800 SOHC 24 valve MIVEC (184kW)
NVECS-II Sport Mode 5-Speed Full Automatic
RRP $52,490 (as tested)
5 year / 130,000 km warranty

Venerable Japanese manufacturer, Mitsubishi, had an admirable plan when they launched their high specification 4WD at the 1981 Tokyo Motor Show.

The name ‘Pajero’ was applied to the new vehicle, drawn from a small South American feline (Leopardus pajeros) that darts spritely amongst the high pampas of the Andes. Attracted by the allure of the svelte little predator, the marketing team unfortunately didn’t look at every popular use of the word and very soon the Spanish-speaking markets were rolling on the floor at the Japanese ineptitude.

American and Spanish markets now refer to the Pajero as Montero (mountain lion) and the UK market as Shogun.

Now in its fourth generation, the new NS Series introduces enhancements that maintain the vehicle’s market respect despite continued unkind references to that famous nomenclature faux pas 25 years ago.

Australian 4x4 Magazine recently awarded the new diesel Pajero '4X4 OF THE YEAR' when stacked up against finalists that included Touareg, Prado, Mercedes-Benz and Jeep.

With so many ‘almost’ 4WDs and SUVs on the market, it’s hard for buyers to tell when they’re getting a real off road machine. For the press launch, Mitsubishi took the notoriously hard-nosed Australian journalists to the Flinders Ranges where they tore around in typical style in the ruts, potholes and bulldust of the true outback.

Our test vehicle came with the new 3.8 litre 24-valve V6 MIVEC (Mitsubishi's variable valve timing) petrol engine which produces 184kW at 6,000 rpm (a substantial 23.5% increase on the previous engine), and maximum torque of 329Nm at a very low 2,750 rpm (up 6% from 310Nm at 3250 rpm on the superseded NP Pajero). Buyers should definitely test the new 3.2 litre common-rail diesel too.

The excellent 5-speed automatic with sequential shift will be the most popular option with buyers, but traditionalists can still opt for the fully synchronised 5-speed manual.

Pajero's 4WD system can be engaged and disengaged whilst driving at speeds of up to 100km/h. It includes 2WD high range, 4WD high range, 4WD low range, and 4WD high and low ranges with locked transfer. Safety systems include ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Active Stability Control, and six airbags - all available on the base model.

Also of note is Mitsubishi’s decision to reintroduce the once popular 3-door, short wheelbase variant to the range.

In summary, the new NS Pajero is a totally creditable development of the already respected Pajero model. Buy it for genuine off road ability, as it presents one of the best value packages on the market.

As for the elite SUV poseurs, you may just have to eat those words.

We Liked:

Excellent drivability on all surfaces
Light, nimble road manners despite size
Responsive engine with excellent power
Very capable package for the money

If we had to be picky

More engine noise than tarmac SUVs
Low tech dash and display

Maserati GranSport Spyder

2007-02-25T09:51:00.000+11:00

Maserati GranSport Spyder

Certainly one of the most anticipated Maseratis of all time, Australia was one of the first markets to preview the alluring roadster at last year's Melbourne Motor Show.

“The Maserati GranSport has provided a fresh re-interpretation of the Maserati legend and the Spyder adds to this the visceral pleasure of open top motoring,’ says Edward Butler, General Manager for Maserati in Australia and New Zealand. “It shares with the GranSport Coupe the breath taking performance from the racetrack-bred 295 kW V8 engine, the remarkable handling, roadholding and ride comfort offered by the Maserati Skyhook Suspension and the exclusive customisation possibilities of the Officine Alfieri Maserati programme with Maserati’s unique styling and adds open top motoring. What more could be wanted from performance motoring?”

The Maserati GranSport Spyder is an open-top version of the GranSport Coupe, the car that has been widely praised for providing the Maserati Coupe with an aggressive new temperament with improved performance, looks and a sharper, more responsive edge.

The GranSport Spyder loses nothing with its conversion to soft top motoring, from its 4.2 litre V8 boosted for its application in the GranSport to 400 bhp/294 kW and its emotive howl that can be enhanced at the press of a button, to reworked suspension, wheels and tyres. Roof up or down, the GranSport Spyder dispatched the dash to 100 kmh in just 4.9 seconds and goes on, where the law permits, to a top speed of 285 kmh.

As with the GranSport Coupe, there are also visual changes. A pronounced spoiler hugs the bottom of the front bumper and on the sides under-door skirting harmonises the look of the car. This is completed by the 19" wheels inspired by the race cars that compete in the Trofeo Maserati.

The interior is a blend of carbon, leather and BrighTex® fabric and endow the cabin with the look and feel of a racing car. This ultra-exclusive Spyder will only be for the patient purist as numbers will always be limited. Expect to wait at least three months if one is available.

BY THE NUMBERS

ENGINE 32-valve quad-cam 4.2 litre V8

POWER 295 kW @ 7000 rpm.

TORQUE 451 Nm @ 4500 rpm

0-100 KM/H 4.9 secs

TOP SPEED 285 km/h

PRICE $260,000

Preview: Audi RS 4 Cabriolet

2007-02-25T09:45:00.000+11:00

Audi RS 4 Cabriolet

New dimensions in driving dynamics combined with innovative ideas - plus exciting styling and a level of equipment that lives up to even luxury-class standards: the new Audi RS 4 combines the latest high-performance product from the highly-specialised sports subsidiary, quattro GmbH in a thoroughbred sports saloon with supreme everyday driving qualities in the premium segment.

The RS 4 features racing technology in plain clothes. While many of its features look similar to the new Audi A4, the RS 4 is far more than just a fast derivative of Audi’s successful mid-size saloon. The car is an almost entirely brand-new development tailored to the highest performance requirements.

The RS 4 Cabriolet puts the brand at the forefront of the four-seater convertible segment. Audi has never before built such a powerful open-top car. The high performance and above all high-torque V8 FSI engine makes the open-top RS 4 ideal for relaxed cruising. As well as sporty performance, the RS 4 Cabriolet treats its passengers to an acoustic experience of the finest caliber. The unmistakable V8 sound is enough to set the pulse of any car enthusiast racing - particularly with the roof open.

The latest generation of Audi’s permanent four-wheel drive is featured for the first time on the RS 4 and offers a 40 (front) to 60 (rear) asymmetric/dynamic torque distribution ratio. Another new feature is the self-locking Torsen centre differential.

Inside, the RS 4 combines the functionality of a sports car with the luxurious ambience typical of all Audi models. Leather, aluminium, and carbon are the predominant materials. The RS 4 also comes with all the additional qualities typical of a genuine sports car.

The RS bucket seats, with high side sections, offer firm hold. By pressing buttons on the seat the side sections can be inflated to mould perfectly to the driver's anatomy. The flat-bottomed RS sports steering wheel and the engine start button on the centre console are clearly reminiscent of motorsport.

The electro-hydraulic hood can be opened entirely automatically in 21 seconds and can be operated at up to speeds of 30 km/h. This makes it possible to open or close the roof when out and about in town, for instance, or before parking the car.

BY THE NUMBERS

ENGINE 32-valve 4.2 litre V8

POWER 309 kW @ 7800 rpm.

TORQUE 430 Nm @ 5500 rpm

0-100 KM/H 4.8 secs

TOP SPEED 250 km/h (limited)

PRICE $187,500

Jaguar XK Convertible

2007-02-25T09:41:00.000+11:00

Jaguar XK Convertible

When released to a salivating public last year, both the Jaguar XK Coupe and Convertible immediately garnered accolades from the fussiest critics. BBC’s Top Gear awarded it “Best Car of 2006”, Which Car voted it “Most Exciting Car of 2007”, MotorWeek dubbed it “Best Dream Car” and. surprisingly, Germany’s Auto Zeitung readers rated Jaguar “First in Quality”.

The XK was designed and engineered above and beyond the high expectations customers rightly have for a Jaguar sports car, a fact made possible because everything from its advanced aluminium chassis to its sophisticated transmission and exquisite interior has been designed in pursuit of a luxurious, advanced and stunning new Jaguar.

"The XK is exactly the sort of sports car that only Jaguar could produce - beautiful to look at and incredible to drive. The XK represents pure automotive desire on four wheels. Everyone who sees it wants to drive it and be seen in it," said Bibiana Boerio, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars at the 2006 launch. "It appeals to customers who do not make compromises in life because like them we have made no compromises in designing it. Whether you go for the drive of a lifetime through the Alps or cruise top-down across America, you will discover these are breathtakingly modern cars that share the heart and soul of every great Jaguar of the past.

The compact, lightweight all-aluminium V8 engine is based on that fitted to the latest generation XJ saloon and has undergone significant development compared with the engine used in the previous XK, including new fuel-injection technology

For the first time in a Jaguar, drivers use steering wheel-mounted paddles to change gear with the new Sequential Shift transmission. In either Drive or Sport Manual modes, very fast gear shifts - as quick as 600 milliseconds - are achieved by combining the use of one-touch paddles with an automatic blip of the throttle from the drive-by-wire engine management system during downshifts.

The interior is very clean and driver-focussed, with simple architectural forms and minimalist detailing. What's in front of the driver essentially defines the feel of the car, which is sporty and functional. The dashboard lines flow from the A pillars to the centre console, whose advanced touch-screen carries the controls for many of the car's features - allowing the number of switches on the instrument panel to be kept to a minimum.

A supercharged version (XKR) is due in May this year.

BY THE NUMBERS

ENGINE Quad-cam naturally aspirated 4.2 litre AJ-V8

POWER 224 kW @ 6000 rpm. (306 kW supercharged)

TORQUE 420 Nm @ 4100 rpm (560 Nm supercharged)

0-100 KM/H 6.3 secs

TOP SPEED 250 km/h (limited)

PRICE $221,900 (XK) $249,500 (XKR)

Preview: Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster

2007-02-25T09:33:00.000+11:00

V8 Vantage Roadster

The most recent Los Angeles Auto Show was abuzz with much anticipated unveiling of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster.

Aston Martin Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The V8 Vantage Roadster is a pure sports car, a car that heightens the senses and provides a dynamically thrilling driving experience.

“The Vantage Roadster adds to the unbeatable thrill of open air motoring and by combining engineering excellence, technological innovation and physical perfection, will ensure every journey is one to remember.”

Perfectly proportioned, with a low purposeful stance, the Vantage Roadster is uncompromisingly modern yet also incorporates classic Aston Martin design cues. The elegant lines are fused with traditional craftsmanship and striking 21st century style, with an interior hand-trimmed and finished in the finest quality genuine materials.

From the beautifully hand stitched leather seats to the hand-finished bodies, to the ultra-modern Aston Martin V8 engine, hand-assembled at a dedicated, high-technology facility in Cologne, Germany, the Vantage Roadster is an exclusive, advanced and uniquely desirable sports car.

Engine is the Aston Martin all-alloy quad overhead camshaft 32 valve, 4.3 litre V8 with variable inlet camshaft timing and dry sump lubrication system. It’s front mid-mounted and rear-wheel drive.

The new Sportshift automated manual transmission is optional. This ultra-quick system provides the driver with heightened precision via fingertip control of gear changes using paddles to progress smoothly and swiftly through the ratios.

Place a deposit today and your new roadster will be amongst the first deliveries around the middle of this year.

BY THE NUMBERS

ENGINE All-alloy quad overhead camshaft 32 valve, 4.3 litre V8

POWER 283kW (380 bhp) @ 7000 rpm.

TORQUE 410 Nm (302 lb.ft) @ 5000 rpm

0-100 KM/H 5.0 secs

TOP SPEED 280 km/h

PRICE $269,000 (manual) $277,250 (Sportshift)

Honda CR-V - The All-New CR-V

2007-02-24T11:01:00.000+11:00

Industry News:

Honda CR-V - The All-New CR-V

The Cars Outback

2007-01-30T21:59:00.004+11:00

Slick city sales pitches don’t travel far in the country. Rural businesses and private buyers alike are driven by common sense and practicality, not glossy brochures or schmick advertising.

Country BIZ examines four straight-up vehicles that should be on your next test drive list.

Roderick Eime

U. B. Ute. E!

Image: drive.com.au
Ford BF RTV Ute

• 4.0 litre DOHC Six 190kW
• 5-speed manual with 4 speed auto option
• $31,950 plus options
• 3 year / 100,000km warranty

Ford utes have been in the shed for as long as there have been sheds. It is so inseparable from the country that it even features on a postage stamp.

Ask any cocky, builder or tradesman why they drive a Ford ute and they’ll tell you it’s as much about the cultural icon as it is about reliability, toughness and practicality. Heck, there’s even an annual muster at Deniliquin for the workers’ best mate and V8 ute racing on TV!

The current RTV is the rural version of the Ford ute, continuing a trend begun with the formidable Outback ute some ten years back. High, 1-tonne suspension, heavy-duty underbody protection and now with ABS and switchable diff-lock, every bloke wants one wrapped up under the Chrissy tree – if he can wait that long!

Following tradition, power is still derived from a muscular 4.0 litre straight six, although the current donk is a far cry from the trusty carby-fed 250ci ones of old. The newie has double overhead cams, multipoint fuel injection and comes with a dedicated LPG engine as an option. The option list doesn’t stop there and Ford allows an almost complete control over possible fitments and enhancements including tow packs, a V8, manual or auto transmissions, cab chassis or tray-backs.

Thumbs Up:

• Powerful, high torque engine
• Rugged, well protected
• Good cabin comfort
• Extensive option list

Mmmm.

• Maximum three adult capacity.
• I miss the long range tank
• No diesel option

Like a Trooper

Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier LC78

• 4.2 litre diesel with turbo option
• 5-speed manual
• $48,900 plus options
• 3 year / 100,000km warranty

The Toyota LandCruiser, despite its Japanese heritage, is the stuff of Aussie outback legend. It’s the 4WD all others are measured by and continues to draw the greatest track cred and biggest boasts in any caravan park. Its status is a result of numerous factors, not the least of them being Toyota’s much envied reliability and build quality. Contenders like Nissan’s Patrol, Jeep and even Land Rover have come close but the mighty LandCruiser has always kept at least its head in front of the pack.

Boiled down to the basics of LandCruiser usefulness and practicality is the Troop Carrier. It’s a bare-bones, austere bodied version of the plush urban variety and built with the land in mind. Forget petrol and automatic transmission options, this wagon means business and is built accordingly. You’ll need more than a big stick or an old axe handle to kill one of these – try an RPG!

Available in six smart colours. Go and ask for French Vanilla, I dare you!

Thumbs Up:

• Economical, sturdy diesel engine
• ‘Military’ build spec
• Nine model range
• Extensive option list

Mmmm.

• Spartan interior at basic end
• No petrol option
• No auto transmission

You’ll Want One Outback

Subaru Outback

• 2.5 litre four cylinder or 3.0 six
• Permanent four wheel drive (AWD)
• $36,990 plus options (2.5)
• 3 year/unlimited km warranty

There was a time when you’d point and giggle at anyone who turned up in a Subaru Leone. But the little petal has grown up and is now a respectable member of the rural fleet.

The most impressive thing about the Symmetrical AWD system now perfected by Subaru and standard on every car they sell, is its ability to cope with a wide variety of road surfaces with confidence. There are times when you want a comfortable sedan and there are times you want the 4WD. Subaru’s clever Outback comes close to delivering both. The intelligent transmission system talks to each wheel and brake, delivering power to wheel most in need. If a wheel begins losing traction, for example, its power is reduced and the surplus transferred to the wheel with the most grip. The principle is not exclusive to Subaru, but hard to find on cars in this price range.

Although it won’t take on a LandCruiser, its useful cross-trainer ability is perfect for commuters who face a daily dirt drive.

Thumbs Up

• Superb build quality
• versatile performer
• great road holding in varied conditions

Mmmm.

• Needs a bit of pedal, especially 2.5
• Automatic transmission not best feature

Never Mind the Kingswood

Holden Commodore Omega VE

• 3.6 litre Alloytec V6 180kW
• 4–speed automatic
• $34,490
• 3 year / 100,000km warranty

Like a favourite sweater or golf bag, a Holden Commodore is a comforting, confidence inspiring vehicle that can take you pretty much anywhere a 2WD can go.

Like its long-time sparring partner, the Falcon, Commodore makes sense. You can get in at sun-up, drive all blinkin’ day and half the night and still get out in decent shape. It’s comfortable, reasonably economical, powerful enough and looks good on the road. And hey, the ladies don’t mind it either.

With more choice than ever in the new car market these days, it’s easy to get carried away with fanciful notions and hybrid machines, but in the end it needs to be the right decision. Ease of service, availability of parts, versatility and peace of mind have to count for something.

The 21st Century Holden sedan still uses a GM V6, although the new Alloytec variants bear little resemblance to the old push-rod Buick 3.8 litre ones first seen in 1988 in the VN. However some critics have been quick to point out that the old 125kW VNs were actually quicker to 100 km/h than the new 180kW VEs. Go figure.

All new Holdens set the motoring media abuzz and the new 2006 VEs were no different. Generally praise was heaped on the new Commodore with particular mention made of the quality trim of the entry level Omega. Whatever happened to the Belmont?

Thumbs Up:

• Comfortable, all-day cruiser
• Lively road manners
• Enhanced stability and safety features

Mmmm.

• 4 speed auto feels dated
• Wot! No full sized spare tyre?

Subi Doo. Where were you?

2007-01-14T13:28:00.000+11:00

Subaru finally launches the SUV we were all waiting for.

Test Vehicle:

Subaru Tribeca 3.0R Premium 7 Seat AWD
3.0 litre DOHC flat six 180kW
5 speed automatic transmission
Satellite Navigation/DVD System
$60,990 as tested
3 year/unlimited km warranty

OUTthere spent some time with the Subaru executives recently and they’re feeling pretty satisfied. They’re not about to take over the world, but the clever niche for AWD vehicles they occupy is all theirs.

Liberty, Impreza, Outback and Forester have all gained enviable acceptance in the market. Subaru, as a brand, continues to make steady forward sales progress in a volatile environment. In a dignified and restrained brag, Subaru Managing Director Nick Senior said: “The engineering, safety and retained value of our vehicles continues to drive customer interest in Subaru.”

Customer interest is certainly one of the factors Subaru can count on, because when their Tribeca B9 SUV was unveiled at Australian motor shows in 2005, it created a minor tsunami amongst the press and Subaru aficionados. Was it the radical styling? Or just simply that Subaru had made the predicable move into the SUV market that had so beckoned it? Several hundred Tribecas are now on Australia roads since the November 2006 launch.

With their symmetrical AWD system down pat, it was a simple enough philosophical move to create the big daddy of the Subaru family. Just apply the many years of development, take the big 3.0 litre DOHC flat six, add a seven seat option and away you go. The forthcoming Subaru boxer turbo diesel, a very poorly kept secret, should be an interesting fitment to Tribeca.

The question OUTthere wanted answered was whether the Tribeca really could do the dirty stuff, so we went looking for it. The road holding, handling and safety of Subaru vehicles is a “gimme” for the sealed and even unsealed surfaces. The Tribeca doesn’t handle with quite the finesse of the smaller sedans and wagons, but is certainly acceptable for the class within which it competes. The big 3.0 engine is capable enough, although not awe-inspiring. It does take a bit of pedal to get all 2 tonnes (with driver) up and mobile.

Our offroad excursion did find the limits of the vehicle. Picking our way carefully through mogulled bush tracks did take some care. Our main concern was the 215mm ground clearance and a couple of times we had to build little stone ramps to clear some sharp edges. There are no diff-locks or low range switches for the 5-speed auto, but the Traction Control at least assures that the wheel that needs the power gets it. This limiting factor considered, we were able to negotiate some pretty hairy trails, although not with the supreme confidence you’d get with a fully equipped, high clearance 4WD.

In summary, the Tribeca is no big kick-butt 4WD, but then it isn’t pretending to be. It’s a refined, comfortable, supremely safe AWD SUV that will find a place in the heart of Subaru owners and likely bring some new fans to the fold.
We liked:

• Road manners
• Safety features top class
• cabin comfort and trim

If we were picky

• Engine needs a little more kick
• AWD system not suited to really heavy duty work
• radical styling not for all

Foreign Affairs

2006-12-30T13:16:00.000+11:00

Which Supermodel do you want to take home?

We polled the luxury car industry experts to see which exoticars were firing imaginations.

Sippity Zoom Car

2006-12-06T17:30:00.000+11:00

Test Vehicle: Mazda6 Diesel

2.0 SOHC 4-cyl Turbo Diesel
6 Speed Manual Transmission
3 Year/unlimited km Warranty
$38,090 as tested

Car reviewers get more cranked up over a new pop-up toaster than a die-cut 4-Cylinder Japanese sedan. So what’s so exciting about the latest 5-door Mazda?

Step back from the new Mazda6 and you’re looking at a perfectly neat, unobtrusive medium sized car with sweet, clean lines and a mildly sporty profile. So what? I hear you ask. Well, the cleverest things about the new Mazda6 Diesel are below the surface.

Firstly, you’re looking at a minor moment in history. Yes, this is the only Japanese manufacturer to currently offer a diesel passenger car in a market increasingly obsessed with fuel prices and consumption. You have to go back a quarter century to the Isuzu-powered Gemini, a practical but overwhelmingly uninspiring vehicle. This situation will change when other manufacturers inevitably follow suit, but full marks to Mazda for playing the first card in what will become a vigorous game when all Japanese manufacturers attempt to counter the European dominance in small diesel engines.

Already a proven hit with petrol car buyers, the svelte Mazda6 is not a styling gamble. Behind the wheel, it drives for all the world like a delightful little car should. Perky, performance from the MZR-CD 2.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel sees 100kmh in less than 10 secs and with a hefty 360Nm of torque at just 2000 rpm (a standard Falcon has 380Nm), you can choof along confidently without a lead foot.

The modest little diesel incorporates many state-of-the-art features for this “born gain” engine type including common rail injection, a variable-geometry turbocharger and ceramic fuel filters. With fuel economy in all conditions well under 6 litres/100kms, you can drive from Sydney to Brisbane on a single 64 litre tank. Emissions, well below EU standards, are almost negligible, so any fears trailing smokescreens can be quickly dismissed.

Other features include a very respectable 6-stacker CD system, six airbags and anti-lock four-wheel ventilated disc brakes. The 6-speed manual transmission will appeal to some and deter others and it may be twelve months before an automatic version is available.

Available in both hatchback and the slightly cheaper wagon, Mazda is not overstating their sales potential, setting a target of just fifty vehicles per month of which thirty, they say, will be the hatch.

We liked:

Staggering economy
Silent, smooth drive train
Elegant styling
Confident handling
Build quality

Not so keen on:

Manual only transmission option (for now)

Head Turner from the 'Hood

2006-10-20T21:12:00.000+10:30

Chrysler 300C CRD

What the grotesque Chrysler 300C lacks in subtlety, it more than makes up for in automotive refinement.

Volvo Aware Driver

2006-10-20T20:56:00.000+10:30

Volvo Aware Driver

The stalwart Swedish marque goes in search of the new generation of bloody Volvo drivers.

Test Car: Volvo V50 T5 AWD Wagon

2.5l DOHC 5 cyl Turbo, 162kW
5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Geartronic
RRP $57,950
3 Year/Unlimited km Warranty

In the 1970s, when ABBA ruled the airwaves, Volvo was the top selling European car in Australia and was frumpy, totally style-free and the butt of countless jokes. Sure, the eminently sensible Swedish machine was high on safety and low on glamour but its Armoured Personnel Carrier credentials attracted nervous (bloody) drivers more in search of survivability than pizzazz.

Ironically, now that 21^st Century Volvos perform like BMWs and look like Jaguars the going is tough. So what’s wrong with the latest Volvos? Well, nothing. In an on-going campaign that has consumed the brand for nearly two decades, Volvo is trying to reinvent itself and modify the venerable bullet-proof persona in favour of a more fashionable perception. Consequently the brand has been gradually nibbling back at lost ground since their self-effacing “Bloody Volvo Driver” ads were launched three years ago.

Ford bought the 80-year-old Swedish marque in 1999 as part of its global brand grab under the Premier Automotive Group banner. Ford believed it could benefit from economies of scale with this plan and indeed, our test car shares its platform with the Mazda3 and new Ford Focus.

Despite progressive styling overhauls that has turned your average Volvo into a sleek street-smart stylewagon, all models retain their much envied state-of-the-art safety benchmark coupled to competitive performance and handling.

"The all-new V50 is the result of a consistent design strategy, in which the Volvo character has been developed for each new model,” said Henrik Otto, Volvo Cars’ Design Director at the time of the model’s debut, ”Our new Sportswagon is indisputably a genuine Volvo but, at the same time, it has its own, totally individual and distinct profile – with characteristics from classics like the Volvo 1800 ES, Volvo 480 and its most recent predecessor, the V40.”

The V50 T5 AWD drives extremely confidently with a reassuring road-holding that will comfort Volvo traditionalists and impress newcomers. Thanks to the new AWD system, cornering and handling is superb and the turbo will set the pulse racing when it really kicks in over 4000 rpm. The 2006 upgrade includes heated front seats, self-dimming interior mirror, a brilliant six-stacker in-dash CD changer with 12-speaker Premium sound system, and larger disc brake package.

In the week I drove this car, I never experienced “Volvo-syndrome”; pottering, tunnel-vision, clumsy lane changing and slo-mo driveway exits. Drive one of these and you may never look at a Volvo the same way again.

We Liked:

Delightful road manners
Spirited performance
Superb sound system
Superior passenger safety

No so Keen on

Rear passenger space tight for big kids
Poor economy for heavy-footed drivers

Land Rover Discovery 3 S V6 Turbo Diesel

2006-09-24T23:41:00.001+10:30

Land Rover Discovery 3 S V6 Turbo Diesel

Forget the mirror balls and flashing lights, Land Rover's new diesel Discovery 3 is not a twinkle-toes.

Subaru Forester XT AWD Station Wagon

2006-09-24T23:41:00.000+10:30

Subaru Forester XT AWD Station Wagon

Little did we know that when Jackie Chan piloted the incongruously high performance Subaru Station Wagon in 1981’s madcap ‘Cannonball Run”, we were seeing a snapshot of the future disguised as satire.

Mercedes Benz ML320 CDI

2006-09-24T23:40:00.001+10:30

Mercedes Benz ML320 CDI

It’s a pretty safe bet that when you go shopping for a new M-Class All-Wheel-Drive Mercedes, you’re not planning a Leyland Brothers expedition.

The Cat's Back: Jaguar S-Type 4.2 Luxury

2006-09-24T23:40:00.000+10:30

The Cat's Back: Jaguar S-Type 4.2 Luxury

40 years later, the stylish S-Type reappears. But is it the Cat of old?

Snowman

2006-09-24T12:09:00.000+10:30

Ian Talbot has been in the snow business for so long, even Santa Claus sends him a Christmas card!

Since pioneering ski tourism and launching Powderhound Magazine in the mid-1970s, Ian now runs a successful media consultancy and public relations business, Skipress, servicing the ski, snow and summer resort businesses in Victoria’s High Country. With regular trips by road and between the major resorts such as Falls Creek Alpine Resort and Mount Beauty, Ian cannot afford to be waylaid by inclement weather or unreliable transport and is delighted with his choice of vehicle; his second Honda CRV.

Both regular and occasional visitors to Falls Creek turn their head when Ian’s distinctively liveried Honda passes by. Looking something like a cross between a mobile blizzard and a giant polar mint, the CRV is decorated with an unmistakeable ski and snow theme.

“I wanted something that really said what I was all about,“ says Ian, the edges of his mouth curling slightly to suppress a huge grin,” the design took two full days to apply and is made up of a series of very big stickers.

“I took it back to Col Crawford’s (Honda dealer in Brookvale, Sydney) for the next service and they couldn’t believe it. It gets huge reaction everywhere I go!”

And Ian sure gets about!

Although most of the mileage is clocked up around town, Ian is quite comfortable extending the CRV’s normal operating environment – especially after his mighty winter adventure.

“It was in the middle of winter and I had to get from Falls Creek to Mt Hotham,” begins Ian, hinting that this isn’t something he would normally attempt in such conditions, “It was snowing hard, so I rang my friends at the local police station for a road report. Surprisingly, the normal route through Harrietville was closed, but I was told the backroad via Trappers Gap was still open – or at least wasn’t closed.”

Normally the twisty 100km trip would take about two hours, but the heavy snowfalls had left 30cm of snow over most of the road and in some places, Ian found drifts right up over the bonnet.

“I was ready to put the chains on at any time, but I really didn’t want to get out of the car, so I pressed on. It was getting very dark and cold and the fuel situation was critical,” continues Ian, reliving the anxiety with some conviction, “but the Honda just kept going, and so did I. What began as a routine drive, turned out to be quite an adventure!”

Even though he was more than happy with the CRV’s off-road ability and All-Wheel-Drive stability, Ian found this demonstration very convincing.

“I really like the look of the new CRV,” he says wistfully, “knowing full well another snowflake paint job is just around the corner!

(Just) Give Me Liberty

2006-07-31T14:41:00.000+10:30

Test Vehicle:

Liberty 2.0R Sat-Nav special
2.0 litre DOHC (horizontally opposed four cylinder)
5-speed manual with Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive
$32,490 as tested

Subaru has re-introduced the entry level Liberty with uprated features and equipment in the hope that it will attract buyers back to this value sedan.

After an absence from the model range for nearly twelve months, little Liberty is back with a vengeance. Previously powered by a basic SOHC 2.0 litre, the new model now uses the upgraded DOHC powerplant with variable valve-timing that’s more emission-friendly and kicks out nearly 30kW more. Styling is in keeping with its elite siblings, the 2.5, 3.0R and GT.

It’s no surprise that new car buyers are rethinking their next purchase. With the spiralling cost of fuel, dealers are reporting purchasers much more interested in frugal motoring without sacrificing comfort and performance. The new Liberty 2.0R satisfies the economy conscious with fuel consumption figures comfortably under 10 litres per 100kms for careful drivers, but those with a heavier foot may find they’re using closer to 12 if they succumb to the Liberty’s sporty urges. The requirement for premium ULP however is not necessarily on the list of selling points.

Our test vehicle employed the 5-speed manual transmission. Tight and definite, the gearbox was perfectly matched to the Liberty’s newly refined engine and power delivery. The 4-speed auto (not tested) provides pseudo-manual Sportshift but is unlikely to deliver better fuel consumption than a well-driven manual. At a cost impost of $2000, Subaru may find the manual a hotter than expected seller.

Inside the cockpit, driver and passenger comfort are well considered, even if the rear seat passenger space is a little restricted. Cloth-trimmed front seats are snug and embracing with a firm, comfortable feel that makes long hours in the saddle pleasant. My dicky back welcomed the confident side restraints and meant I wasn’t squirming in pain every few minutes. There is a lack of reach adjustment in the steering column, but is compensated somewhat by a highly adjustable driver’s seat.

The dash is clean and unintimidating with a clear, familiar and practical layout. Our test car was a limited edition model with the satellite navigation system that dominated the centrepiece. This piece of equipment is now finding it’s way into more and more regular vehicles and is no longer a high priced option at the lofty end of the range. At a premium of just $500, Subaru reckon this “door buster” might just reenergise the new Liberty. This feature is normally a $3000 add-on.

On the road, the 2.0R is every bit the sure-footed AWD sedan; the hallmark of Subaru across the entire model range. Excellent 4-wheel ventilated discs with ABS augment the performance handling and team superbly with a very high (ANCAP 5 stars) safety rating thanks to dual front, side and curtain airbags.

Standard fitments are anything but frugal. The balance of equipment includes five-spoke alloys with a full-size spare wheel; climate controlled air-conditioning; six-speaker CD sound system, leather steering wheel and gear shift; cruise control; dual exhausts; front fog lamps and DataDot technology as added theft deterrence.

In summary, the Liberty 2.0R is a highly creditable, good-looking car from an increasingly respected manufacturer that delivers safety, style and affordability.

Similar Vehicles: Honda Accord, Mazda6, Holden Vectra and Toyota Camry

We liked:

• Excellent occupant safety
• Potential for good economy
• Impeccable road manners
• Attractive styling
• Japanese build quality
• High security rating (93.5/120)

We weren’t so keen on:

• Tight rear seat for big adults
• Engine requires urging from low down
• Limited boot access from inside cabin
• Premium ULP requirement

Liberty at subaru.com.au

Ford Territory TX AWD

2005-12-30T18:22:00.000+11:00

Charting New Territory

commissioned for OUTthere Magazine

The Ford Territory has certainly put the swagger back into Ford Australia’s marketing department. After some years in the doldrums, Ford are now back at the big end of town with Falcon (BA) back in the good books and a Medium 4WD that now ‘owns’ the market segment, displacing even Toyota’s robust Prado and the slightly softer Kluger.

Ford Territory TX AWD

Honda Indy Car Racing "Everyone Loves A Winner!"

2005-12-30T18:15:00.000+11:00

Everyone Loves a Winner

commissioned for HONDA - The Magazine

Winning in the CART (Championship Auto Racing Teams) World Series is no mean feat. As North America's premier motorsport category, and one of the world's most respected super high performance formulae, winning becomes a science, a philosophy and an all-consuming desire.

Honda Indy Car Racing "Everyone Loves A Winner!"

Bathurst: You Can't Make a Molehill Out of This Mountain!

2005-12-30T17:52:00.000+11:00

Bathurst: You Can't Make a Molehill Out of This Mountain!

commissioned for Holiday Inn's UNWIND Magazine

Mountains seem to feature large in all epic tales. Hillary with Everest, Zeus with Olympus, Mohammed and Sisyphus with their own prophetic bergs. Such is the case with the pinnacle of Australian motorsport: Mount Panorama.

Read Full Story

Terios to Adventure

1998-01-02T01:06:00.000+11:00

When a timid Daihatsu Australia launched their new baby 4WD to a gathering of jaded motoring journos at a glitzy Gold Coast venue, they unveiled their idea of a sexy urban runabout for trendy young with-its.

Not swayed by the dancing girls and flashy stage show, Rod Eime, like most of the critical gathering, said "bullshit!"