Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue #54 - December 2019 i Australian New Car Buyer

We’re now well and truly on the way to the affordable, mass market electric car. It’s not quite with us yet. The cheapest EV in this issue, and the cheapest on the market in Australia, is the $44,990 Hyundai Ioniq, but within the next few years you’ll be able to buy a small hatchback style EV for around $25,000. So if you’re about to buy a new car, it’s probably worth waiting until your new car after that to go electric, because prices will come down, you’ll have many more models to choose from and the technology will be much more developed, with shorter recharging times and higher capacity batteries that can give you a greater range than the 200-300km that’s a realistic maximum now. By the end of this…

Remember when there was no such thing as a beautiful SUV? SUVs were spacious, sure. And capable. Even occasionally sporty. But they were never, ever beautiful. But clearly something has changed, because we defy anyone to gaze upon Alfa Romeo’s new Stelvio and describe it as anything but stunning. The Italian brand’s first-ever SUV can be had with a choice of a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol-producing 149kW and 330Nm, or a 2.2-litre turbodiesel that generates 154kW and 470Nm, both with an eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive. The petrol model kicks off at $65,900 and the turbodiesel at $67,900. Standard equipment includes leather, 19-inch alloys and a power tailgate. A 2.0-litre petrol Ti model, with a 206kW/400Nm engine, is $78,900. The headline-stealing act here is the thumping 2.9-litre bi-turbo petrol V6 that…

Audi’s current A3 range, like its predecessors, shares its architecture and most of its componentry with parent brand Volkswagen’s Golf. Prices for the five-door A3 Sportback start at $36,600 for the 85kW 1.0-litre turbopetrol three-cylinder/seven-speed automated twin-clutch S-Tronic. The 110kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol four, with cylinder-on-demand technology (COD) that automatically shuts down two cylinders under light loads to save fuel, is $40,700. The 140kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol Sport is $46,800; with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drivetrain, it’s $50,400. Sedans start at $42,300 for the 1.4-litre/seven-speed S-Tronic; Sport variants, with the same 2.0-litre front-wheel drive and quattro drivetrains as the Sportback, cost $48,400 and $52,000 respectively. Cabrios start at $49,800 for the 1.4-litre turbopetrol COD. The 2.0-litre turbopetrol Sport models are $55,900 with front-wheel drive and $59,500 with quattro. S3 quattro variants, with a…

The RS5 sits at the top of Audi’s A5 coupe line-up. In typical Audi RS fashion, this car goes softly, but carries a very big stick. Everything in this model is new, including the 2.9-litre, twin turbo V6, developed with Porsche (where it’s also found in the Panamera and new Cayenne); VW’s rigid, lightweight MLB platform architecture; five-link suspension with adaptive, adjustable dampers at both ends and an eight-speed automatic, mated to to Audi’s signature quattro all wheel drive system, with a mechanical centre differential, and active torque vectoring between the rear wheels. RS5 is available as a two door coupe and a five door Sportback, both priced at $157,700. Sliding into the luxurious, supportive, Nappa leather sports driver’s seat, you face Audi’s virtual cockpit, with configurable digital instruments, including…

BMW’s M division cars have been somewhat hit and miss in recent years — epic on a track, but not so enjoyable in day-to-day driving, where their overreliance on electronics produces a remote, uninvolving driving experience amplified by artificially weighted steering, constipated twin-clutch gearboxes and a frustrating inability to get power to the ground. Well, BMW has certainly seen and remedied the errors of its ways with the M2. Now available only in M2 Competition specification, BMW’s smallest hotrod is priced at $104,900. A six-speed manual is standard; a seven-speed twin clutch M-DCT gearbox is a no cost option. The equipment list is extensive and includes electrically adjustable heated seats, leather/Alcantara upholstery, 12 speaker Harman Kardon audio and adaptive headlights. The M2 is not exactly cheap — it’s about $25,000…

BMW’s seventh-generation 5 Series range opens with the $90,900 520i, with a 135kW, 2.0-litre turbopetrol four. At $95,900, the 520d runs a 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel four, while the $112,900 530i, tested here, has a 185kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol four. Six cylinder power starts with the $123,300 530d, with a 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel straight six. The $142,900 540i runs the latest version of BMW’s signature engine, a 3.0-litre turbopetrol straight six, with a potent 250kW and 450Nm. The 530e, a 2.0-litre petrolelectric plug-in hybrid that can travel up to 50km on electricity alone, is $112,900. Touring wagon variants include the $95,900 520d and the $112,900 530i. Every model in the 5 Series line-up comes standard with the suite of radar- and camera-reliant aids BMW calls Driving Assistant Plus. Key features include active…

The days of budget-priced small hatchbacks may soon be behind us. Few brands can get a Toyota Corolla-sized car close to the $20,000 drive-away mark these days, as each new model gains more advanced safety tech. The 2019 Ford Focus, imported from Germany, joins the growing list of hatchbacks that have vacated the bargain basement. The range opens with the 90kW 1.5-litre three cylinder/six-speed automatic Ambiente, at $23,490. Trend, priced from $25,990, ST-Line from $28,990, STLine wagon from $30,990 and the flagship Titanium from $34,490 all run a 134kW 1.5-litre turbo triple/eight-speed auto drivetrain, as does Focus Active, a faux SUV priced at $29,990. As Toyota has done with the new Corolla, Ford has added some styling flair to help the pricing medicine go down. There’s another reason Ford has…

Ford Australia would prefer we didn’t call its new five-seater Endura SUV a Territory replacement. Endura, says Ford Australia, is a much more upmarket SUV, a “premium offering” for those who want something “special and opulent”. Endura is well equipped, spacious and very comfortable, but it ain’t opulent. A Bentley is opulent. Endura Trend starts at $44,990, mid-spec ST-Line is $53,990 and Titanium is $63,990. These prices are for front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive adds $4000. It’s expensive compared with similarsized, diesel-powered, all-wheel-drive seven-seater SUVs. Hyundai’s Santa Fe Highlander, for example, at $60,500, costs about $7500 less than Endura Titanium all-wheel drive, tested here, and Mazda’s CX8 Asaki is about $6500 cheaper. All variants are powered by a 2.0-litre turbodiesel that also lives under the bonnet of the Everest seven-seater and…

Holden’s Trax is a small SUV based on the now defunct Barina hatchback. It’s only available as a front-wheel drive, so think of it as an interesting take on the compact hatch with an SUV’s easy access and high, comfortable seating position. The base LS 1.8-litre, five-speed manual is $23,990. The 1.4-litre turbopetrol six-speed auto 1.4T LS is $26,490. LT 1.4T is $28,890 and LTZ 1.4T is $30,490. GM’s 103kW/175Nm 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is an ageing slugger but in this application it’s OK, offering reasonable mid-range pulling power (assisted by quite short gearing), reasonable fuel economy on regular unleaded and greater refinement than expected. The 103kW/200Nm 1.4-litre turbopetrol is a sweet little engine, much more refined, tractable and responsive than the 1.8, but it’s also thirsty in town and…

There was never going to be a ZB Commodore V8, so it was at Holden’s insistence that the 3.6-litre V6, with all-wheel drive, was included in the 2018 Insignia range as an Australiaspecific model, in the belief that many Commodore customers would demand stronger performance than the 2.0-litre turbopetrol and diesel four-cylinder engines, offered with front-wheel drive in other ZB variants, could deliver. Holden’s engineers — it still retains about 100 to tweak imports for local requirements and conditions — were given responsibility for the V6 drivetrain, bespoke suspension that goes with it and steering calibration. Priced at $40,790 for the Liftback — with a five-door coupe-style body and roof-hinged tailgate — RS is the base sports-flavoured V6. Its driver’s seat has a firm, extendable cushion, supportive side bolstering and…

Honda’s HRV, a compact five-door SUV, combines extraordinary interior flexibility with a punchy drivetrain and handsome styling inside and out. The base 1.8-litre petrol/continuously variable automatic (CVT) VTi model costs $24,990. Then it’s the same drivetrain with more fruit as you move up to the VTi-S (from $27,990), followed by the RS (from $31,990) and then the VTi-LX at $34,590). While the 1799cc single-cam i-VTEC unit has seen dependable service in the Civic for years, its pairing with the latest-generation CVT has given the 1.8 a fresh lease on life. The HR-V is unexpectedly perky off the line and will maintain its eager acceleration right up to the 6600rpm redline (and a bit beyond). The CVT, meanwhile, is quite atypical in that it is not prone to droning. In most…

Honda’s Odyssey is priced from a sharp $37,610 for the base VTi. The more generously equipped VTi-L is $47,590. Brandishing van-like electric sliding doors and a high roof for ultra-easy entry, the Odyssey’s floor is lower than usual, with an extended wheelbase and wheels-at-each-corner stance. The result is outstanding interior space, with high-set, eight-person seating in the VTi or a seven-person arrangement in the plusher VTi-L. The latter ditches a three-seat second-row bench for a pair of very comfortable airline-style reclinable chairs with armrests and an ottoman. Uniquely, they can slide sideways and back for limousine levels of legroom. Like the previous model, Odyssey’s practicality as a kid carrier is tarnished by the fact that, in the continued absence of ISOFIX restraint mounts, child-restraint tether straps for the VTi’s second-row…

Hyundai’s Accent is cleverly designed to offer generous interior space in a compact body and comes as a sedan or hatchback. Prices start at $15,490 for the 103kW direct-injection 1.6-litre petrol Accent Sport hatch and sedan. A six-speed manual is standard and a six-speed auto adds $2000. The 1.6 is one of the most powerful engines in this class, so performance is strong. It can also return reasonable highway fuel economy running on regular unleaded, but it’s got a bit of a thirst in town and it’s not the most refined device either. Handling is vice-free given the Accent’s purpose in life, while the ride is comfortable and compliant. The driver sits high on a saggy cushion, with no steering-wheel reach adjustment available. Infotainment includes a 5-inch touchscreen and Apple…

Hyundai’s first crack at the hot hatch class, the i30 N was hyped to the max prior to its arrival, a dangerous thing to do if the walk don’t match the talk. The first product of Hyundai’s N Performance division, the i30 N is the creation of Albert Biermann, former engineering chief of BMW’s M operation. At $40,490, i30 N is the best value in the class, whichever way you look at it. Its 2.0-litre turbo four produces 202kW of power and up to 378Nm of torque on over-boost, so it has the traditional hot hatch value measure (bang for your buck) well covered against rivals at the $40K price point. A Fastback variant (pictured), with a longer, lower coupe style body, costs $41,990. It features the same drivetrain as…

An i30 hatch given the compact SUV treatment, Hyundai’s base-model Kona Go, tested here, is $24,000. You get a 2.0-litre petrol four with 110kW of power and 180Nm of torque, matched with a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. The i30 Active hatchback has a more powerful version of the same drivetrain, with 120kW and 203Nm. Kona Active is $25,500, Elite is $30,000 and Highlander is $36,000. A more sophisticated, frugal 1.6-litre direct-injection turbopetrol engine, with 130kW and 265Nm, is matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive, priced from $27,500 for the Go, $29,000 for the Active, $33,500 for Elite and $39,500 for Highlander. If you plan to go off-road, Kona’s extra 30mm of ground clearance over the i30 will be useful. If you don’t, it’s irrelevant. The i30…

The Hyundai Santa Fe features seven seats in all models. The lineup opens with the all-wheel-drive 138kW 2.4-litre petrol/six-speed automatic Active, at $43,000. The 147kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel drive Active is $46,000. Elite 2.2 turbodiesel automatic is $54,000 and Highlander is $60,500. The 2.2 turbodiesel produces hefty outputs for its size, especially its impressive 440Nm of torque from 1750–2750rpm. The same engine is also used in the Santa Fe’s twin under the skin, the Kia Sorento. Its numbers are superior to any Japanese rival, including Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbodiesel in the LandCruiser, Prado and Fortuner. The Hyundai pulls easily from low revs, is exceptionally smooth and strong in the midrange and pulls hard across the top end to well past 4500rpm. Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart (adaptive) drivetrain modes can be…

Jaguar’s F-Pace’s mostly aluminium body draws on the basic elements of Jaguar’s XE and XF sedans. Size-wise, the F-Pace is something of an in-betweenie. It’s larger than a BMW X3, for example, but not as big as an X5. It’s certainly spacious enough to be a very useful family wagon. The 650-litre cargo compartment is a whopper and the rear seat, which features a three-piece folding backrest, is roomy. F-Pace prices begin at $77,380 for the 132kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel four R-Sport, with rear-wheel drive. The 177kW 2.0-litre twin turbodiesel all-wheel drive range opens at $87,035 for the R-Sport. The 221kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel R-Sport is $91,315. Petrol models open with the 184kW 2.0-litre rear-wheel drive R-Sport, at $77,392. The 221kW, all-wheel drive variant starts at $86,457. The supercharged 280kW 3.0-litre…

Kia’s Cerato hatch range opens with the 112kW/192Nm 2.0-litre petrol S, with a six-speed manual, priced at $20,990. A six-speed auto adds $2800. Sport, with the auto as standard, is $25,790 and Sport+ is $28,840. The 150kW/256Nm 1.6-litre turbo/seven-speed dual clutch automatic GT i $32,990. Cerato sedan is available in the same models grades at the same prices. The 2.0-litre engine is a strong, willing device that returns good economy on regular unleaded, and is a neat fit with the automatic. Kia’s suspension is tailored for our rough roads, so it’s pretty firm. The Cerato is a classy, comfortable piece inside, albeit rather dark and understated in its attempt to mimic a Euro. Autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, parking sensors and full smartphone connectivity are standard. Fit and finish…

Kia’s Sportage SUV, which shares architecture with Hyundai’s Tucson and, sizewise, bridges the gap between compact and medium wagons, starts at $30,190 for the Si front-wheel drive. This model is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a modest 114kW of power and an even more modest 192Nm of torque. The base drivetrain is also offered in SX, at $32,290 and SX+, priced at $37,490. A 2.0-litre turbodiesel (with 136kW and 400Nm) with on-demand all-wheel drive is available across all grades at $35,590 for the S, $37,690 for SX, $42,890 for the SX+ and $47,690 for the GT Line, while a 2.4-litre petrol (with 135kW and 237Nm) all-wheel drivetrain is available only in the top-end GT Line at $44,790. A six-speed auto is standard on petrol models; the diesel is…

The NX is Lexus’ smallest SUV yet and like many modern SUVs it targets urban buyers. Entry models are front-wheel drive rather than all-wheel drive because, according to research, many buyers really don’t know or care which wheels put the power to the road. NX’s aggressive, exaggerated proportions suggest an attempt to appeal to younger buyers — and there are pleasing details in its lights and garnish — but the result seems too tall for its width and too big for its wheels. In official sales charts, NX sits in the compact SUV category alongside the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA. However, at 4.6m long, it’s actually a whole size larger and a more realistic rival for the Audi Q5, BMW X3/X4, Jaguar F-Pace, Mercedes GLC and the…

MAZDA’S fourth-generation MX-5 kicks off at just $35,390 for the base model 1.5-litre/six-speed manual Roadster. A six-speed auto adds $2000. The 2.0-litre GT manual is $43,320; the auto is $45,320. Stowing the lightweight roof opens up an endless sky that no sunroof can match. With the side windows up, heater on and the standard rear deflector in place, alfresco cruising is possible even on a cold night. At speed, conversation requires no raised voices, while lifting and securing the manual top again is no hardship. If it is for you, then you may prefer the 2.0-litre RF power operated folding hard roof model, priced from $40,700, or $47,400 in GT trim, again with the auto adding $2000. You lower yourself gently into the MX5, and if you’re long of leg…

Mazda’s mid-size 6 is available as a sedan and wagon. Prices start at $34,490 for the 140kW/250Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol/six-speed automatic Sport sedan. The Touring is $38,690. GT, with a 170kW/420Nm 2.5-litre engine, is $45,990 and the top-of-the-range Atenza is $49,890. Wagon versions add $1300. Whereas most naturally aspirated petrol fours just don’t have the bottom-end and midrange performance of their turbocharged rivals, Mazda’s 2.5 is sufficiently strong and responsive across the rev range to work well in town or on the highway and returns great fuel economy. The 6 is a pretty big unit, though, so the 2.5-litre turbo’s 170kW of power – and a hefty 420Nm of torque -- are close to Goldilocks numbers for its layout and purpose. A broad, muscular delivery, accompanied by a lovely growly…

Mazda’s CX-8 SUV slots between the mid-size CX-5 five-seater and family-sized CX-9 seven-seater. There are three model grades: base Sport front-wheel drive from $43,910, Sport all-wheel drive from $47,910 and the flagship Asaki that pole vaults $15,000 to $63,090. Standard fare includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB), blind zone warning, rear-cross traffic alert (and rear AEB), a very effective speed-sign recognition system and built-in navigation. Mazda’s infotainment — with a large dial and buttons that fall neatly within reach of your hand in the centre console — is one of the better systems we’ve used, but does take a bit of practice. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Rear cargo space is generous in the right configuration, though there is only a space-saver spare tyre under the boot floor. Both…

McLaren’s 720S coupe range opens at $489,900. Luxury specification is $515,080, as is the Performance variant. The Spider is $556,000. It’s a relatively practical mid-engined supercar. The luggage compartment between its front wheels has a capacity of 110L and there’s also space for stuff on the shelf behind its pair of seats. The slimmed-down A-pillars of its all-new carbon-fibre body structure mean the view ahead is good and its low-mounted engine clears the way for a reasonable look at what’s behind. Not that there’s likely to be anything to see back there if you drive the 720S on a wide-open throttle. According to McLaren, the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 in the 1.4-tonne 720S churns out 530kW (or 720hp, the number that gives the car its name). This is the same as…

Even Aston Martin admits that for most of existence it has made Russian dolls – one car in several different sizes. But all that changed with the 2017 DB11 grand tourer, the first product of a range renewal plan, and is confirmed by the second newcomer, Vantage. Vantage is the sportscar in Aston’s new portfolio, and its sole two-seater. It has been repositioned with a price rise of around $80,000, pitching against the Audi R8 RWS, Porsche 911 GTS and Mercedes-AMG GT S – the best sub-Ferrari performers money can buy. Vantage can hold its head up in this crowd. It has nothing in common with its predecessor but shares a version of Aston’s new generation underpinnings. Like DB11, it uses electronic architecture and a V8 engine sourced from Daimler,…

Audi’s B9 A4 sedan range opens with two front-wheel-drive models. The 35 1.4TFSi ($56,100) runs the same 110kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dual-clutch S-Tronic drivetrain used in the VW Golf. The 140kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol 40 2.0 TFSi is $61,400 and the Avant wagon is $64,400. Top of the range, and the variant that has usually been the pick of the A4s to drive, is the 2.0-litre turbopetrol 45 2.0TFSi quattro ($70,300, or $73,300 Avant), with 185kW of power. The 45 2.0TFSi quattro allroad, a fuax SUV that’s basically a jacked up Avant with more clearance, is $74,800. The S4 quattro sedan, with a 260kW 3.0-litre turbopetrol, is $98,882; the Avant is $101,882. The RS4 Avant, with a 331kW 2.9-litre twin turbo V6/eight speed auto and a claimed 0-100km/h time of just 4.1…

Audi’s A6 45 TFSI starts from $95,500, powered by a 180kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine matched to a seven-speed twin clutch automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive. A6 45 TFSI S-Line, priced from $105,200, gets the same engine but a more sporty appearance, sports suspension and 20-inch alloy wheels rather than 19s. The flagship – until the high performance S and RS models arrive – is the A6 55 TFSI S Line, tested here and priced from $116,000, powered by a 250kW/500Nm turbopetrol V6. The dash is dominated by two large touchscreens (10.1- and 8.6-inch) that control infotainment and air-conditioning systems. In front of the driver is Audi’s 12.3-inch “virtual cockpit” display which can be viewed in several modes. Thanks to a permanent phone connection via an embedded SIM card installed at the…

Today’s Audi Q5 might seem barely changed since the original in 2009, but there’s exciting new stuff underneath its almost the same skin. Kicking off from $65,900 for the 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre 40 TDI diesel quattro and $66,900 for the 185kW/370Nm 2.0-litre 45 TFSI petrol quattro, the second-generation Q5 features a significantly lighter yet stronger body than before, the adoption of sophisticated five-link independent suspension (with optional air springs for a smooth, supple ride — something the previous Q5 struggled with) and enough driver-assist safety to make a Volvo engineer blush. Clean surfaces, obsessive quality, precision shutlines — all are expected Audi hallmarks, yet the Q5 ups the ante anyway with a spacious and airy cabin boasting designer textures, exquisite materials, cocooning silence and exceptional tactility. Thankfully there is actual depth…

BMW 3 Series prices start at $64,900 for the 135kW/300Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol 320i and $67,900 for the 320d, which runs a 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel four, both matched with a standard eight-speed automatic. The 330i sedan tested here is $70,900.The 330i Touring is $73,900. Up front is a 2.0-litre turbopetrol with 190kW and 400Nm, sufficient to launch the sedan’s lithe 1433kg to 100km/h in a claimed 5.8 seconds. The 330e plug-in hybrid sedan, with a claimed electric-only range of up to 60km, is $75,900. The M340i xDrive, with BMW’s signature 3.0-litre turbo straight six tuned for 285kW/500Nm, plus all-wheel drive, is $99,900. The 330i shapes up as a no-options required performance drive straight out of the box. Standard are adaptive M suspension with adjustable dampers and a 10mm lower ride…

The second-generation BMW X1 shares much of its core technology, including its basic structure, with the latest versions of the Mini (a brand that is owned by BMW) as well as BMW’s 2 Series Active Tourer. The range opens with the sDrive 18i, at $44,500. sDrive18d is $49,900, sDrive20i is $48,500 and the xDrive25i is $62,900. Popular sDrive versions are front-wheel drive instead of rear-wheel drive. xDrive variants use an all-wheel drivetrain. So the latest X1 may be technically heretical in the eyes of long-term BMW loyalists, but it’s likely that compact SUV buyers will embrace it. The advantages of the new direction are plain to see, especially inside the car. Penned by young, Sydney-born designer Calvin Luk, the second-generation X1 is better proportioned and with the space-efficient crossways engine/front-wheel-drive…

BMW’s first X5, launched in 2000, immediately became the luxury SUV benchmark. So the fourth generation X5, like its predecessors, refines a proven formula rather than reinventing it. Start money is $99,900 for the 170kW/450Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic xDrive 25d. We’re testing the xDrive 30d, the top selling variant with a 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre straight six turbodiesel, priced at $117,900. The xDrive 45e hybrid, with a 3.0-litre turbopetrol six and system outputs of 290kW/600Nm, is $129,900. xDrive 40i, with a 250kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbopetrol six, is $120,900, while the M50d, with a 294kW/760Nm triple turbodiesel 3.0-litre six, is $151,900, as is the 390kW/750Nm 4.0-litre twin turbopetrol V8 M50i. This model expanded in all directions, notably in width and wheelbase. It’s still a five seater, with a third row option; a better bet…

Ford gave Mustang a major rework in 2018 and produced the car it should have when it launched the first factory right hand drive model in 2015. In response to the criticism that the original model was too stiff over bumps, Ford engineers retuned the suspension and fitted better shock absorbers. Magnetically-controlled shock absorbers, which improve comfort even further, are a $2750 option. On the V8, a switch to Michelin Pilot Sport rubber from the previous Pirelli P Zeros also aids cushioning over bumps. Welcome news to V8 fans, Ford fitted a louder bi-modal exhaust, which, at the press of a button, transforms the Mustang from hush quiet to 1970s muscle-car loud. The V8 also gained 33kW to 339kW, while the 2.3-litre’s power is trimmed from 233kW to 224kW. The…

Holden’s five-seater midsize Equinox SUV starts at $27,990 for the 127kW, 1.5-litre turbopetrol, six-speed manual, front-wheel drive LS; a six-speed auto adds $2000. The 100kW 1.6-litre turbodiesel/six-speed automatic/front-wheel drive LS+ is $35,990; LT is $39,990. The all-wheel drive LTZ is $47,290; LTZ-V is $49,290. A 188kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, with a nine-speed automatic and front-wheel drive, starts at $36,990 for the LT. We’re testing the top-of-the-range LTZ-V, with selectable all-wheel drive. It costs $46,290 plus on-road costs. That’s more than 50 large by the time you drive it home. It had better be good, then. Despite its generous specification, Equinox LTZ’s cabin feels like $25,000, not $50,000. Fit and finish quality are OK, but GM’s trademark sludge-grey decor gives it a grim, low-rent ambience compared with more stylish, polished rivals. You…

If you own a Ford Territory and don’t know what to buy next, it could be time to consider a Holden. In the same way the Territory once wowed the locals, this bold box-shaped seven-seater is Holden’s first fair-dinkum attempt at a family freighter that’s car-like to drive. As you may have guessed from the design, it comes from the USA, where it is sold as a GMC and competes with the Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-9 and Nissan Pathfinder. The Acadia has more cabin and cargo room than any other vehicle in its class even though its footprint and external dimensions are slightly smaller than the Mazda and Nissan. Under the bonnet is the biggest and most powerful petrol engine in the class — a 3.6-litre V6 — matched to…

This Civic is the 10th generation since 1973 of Honda’s signature model. We’re testing the 1.8-litre VTi-S sedan which, at $24,590, sits one step above the base 1.8-litre VTi model, priced at $22,390, and below three 1.5-litre turbo variants: the $27,790 VTi-L, the sports-flavoured $31,990 RS and the $33,690 VTi-LX. Civic hatch is available with the same drivetrains at the same prices for VTi and VTi-L, $100 less for VTi-S and VTi-LX and $300 more for RS. Civic sedan has always been one of the largest cars in its class and this model almost qualifies as a medium-sizer. Four adults can spread out and relax in it. There is a twin cockpit-style front cabin, a driving position adjustable for any physique and luxurious front seats. There’s also plenty of rear-seat…

Honda’s Accord range opens with the 129kW 2.4-litre petrol/five-speed automatic Accord VTi-L, as tested here, at $43,990. The 206kW 3.5-litre V6/six-speed automatic Accord V6L costs $52,590. The 2.4 is a dull engine that shows its age in its lack of sparkle, tractability and refinement. It’s also pretty thirsty in real-world driving, especially compared with the 2.5-litre engine in the Mazda6. A simple, stylish, conservative interior feels like $30,000 worth, not $45,000. The Accord does have a once-popular feature that you just don’t get in many new cars these days: an ashtray! It even has a lighter. There’s another ashtray in each of the rear doors — so everybody can light up and have fun … Rear-seat space is fine for adults; the seat is comfortable and the low windowsills add…

The current Hyundai Elantra is almost as big the original 1978 Holden VB Commodore. Bumper to bumper, it’s just 20cm shorter, but the Hyundai has a bigger cabin and boot. Pricing kicks off at $21,490 for the 2.0-litre petrol Elantra Go six-speed manual, and $23,790 for the six-speed auto. Active auto is $25,990. Sport runs a 150kW 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine, with six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmissions, priced at $28,990 and $31,490 respectively. It also has independent rear suspension, rather than the basic torsion beam setup of the other models. Sport Premium specification adds $2500. The Elantra drives well. It’s superbly comfortable over bumps and feels solid, stable and secure in corners. Hyundai has been adapting its cars to suit local conditions for several years now and the…

Electric drivetrain technology has progressed to the point where 200km and beyond is now an achievable range, so if you live in a capital city, an electric car is certainly a viable option as your daily driver. Hyundai’s Ioniq is a three-model line-up that includes a pure electric variant, with a claimed range of up to 230km, and a Toyota Prius-style petrol/electric hybrid, where the electric motor improves the efficiency of the petrol engine rather than being able to shift the car by itself. Ioniq plug-in, tested here, claims up to 63km on electricity alone from its 8.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In hybrid mode, where it switches between 1.6-litre petrol and battery power, sometimes using both depending upon how and where you’re driving, its range can exceed 600km. Priced from $40,990…

Kona electric is Hyundai’s first battery-powered SUV. Prices start at $58,500 for the Launch Edition. Elite is $59,990 and Highlander, which we’re testing here, is $64,490. The 2.0-litre petrol-powered Kona Elite starts at $29,500. Highlander is $35,500. So you’re paying up to twice the price to go EV. Kona’s 150kW single electric motor drives the front wheels. Its 64kWh lithium ion battery provides a claimed range of up to 449km. Hyundai quotes zero to 80 percent capacity recharge times extending from 54 minutes on a 100kW DC public fast charger to nine hours and 35 minutes when plugged into an optional ($2000, installed) home charger. Using a 10amp household power point will take up to 28 hours. Servicing is cheap because an EV drivetrain has few moving parts and no…

Jaguar aimed ambitiously high with its new I-Pace mid-size luxury SUV. “The target was to create the best electric vehicle on the planet,” says Jaguar technical design director, Wolfgang Ziebart. And that is exactly what’s been done. I-Pace matches the Tesla Model X for performance, driving range and efficiency. But I-Pace is better designed and built than anything from the audacious American company adored by EV evangelists. Mercedes EQC is similar in size, but slightly less powerful (330kW), slower and with a shorter range, claimed to be up to 350km. This trio will be joined by Audi’s e-tron in late 2019 or early 2020. I-Pace is available in three model grades — the $124,100 S, $135,400 SE and $146,000 HSE. The Jaguar’s chassis cradles a large, flat 90kWh lithium-ion battery…

Kia’s top selling Picanto starts at $14,190 with a 62kW 1.25-litre four cylinder/five-speed manual. X-Line is $16,190 and GT Line, with a standard four-speed auto, extra equipment and sporty bling, is $17,290. The auto adds $1600 to S and X-Line. Picanto GT, with a 74kW 1.0-litre turbo triple/five-speed manual, is $17,990. The Picanto isn’t exactly loaded. It does, however, include everything you need to be comfortable, connected and content. Infotainment includes Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility, so you can do just about everything by voice with your phone, including navigation, on the seven-inch touchscreen. Typical of the class, the back seat has limited legroom and is only wide enough for two. A deep boot is the biggest in the class. Automatic emergency braking (to a stop from speeds…

Kia’s Sorento is comparable in size with Toyota’s Kluger and the Nissan Pathfinder, with vast interior space for seven. Petrol-powered models are front-wheel drive. The range opens with the 206kW 3.5-litre V6/eight-speed automatic Si at $42,990; Sport is $44,990, SLi is $46,990 and GT-Line is $55,490. Sorento’s 147kW 2.2-litre turbodiesel is a superb engine, as strong, frugal and refined. It’s also matched with an eight-speed automatic. The all-wheel drivetrain includes a lockable centre differential. Prices start at $45,490 for the Si, tested here. Sport is $48,490, SLi is $50,490 and GT Line is priced at $58,990. Sorento’s 2.2-litre turbodiesel can be hard to pick as a diesel because it is so smooth and quiet. It’s also frugal, returning 7–8L/100km on the highway and 10–11L/100km in town. Not bad for a…

The Lexus IS sedan range opens with the 180kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol four-cylinder IS 300, available in Luxury, F Sport and Sports Luxury grades, priced at $59,340, $66,707 and $77,022 respectively. The 233kW 3.6-litre V6 IS 350 is available in the same grades, priced at $65,100, $72,522 and $83,142. Hybrid power is also available as an alternative to diesel with the IS300h, priced at $61,890 for the Luxury, $70,310 for F Sport and $81,160 for Sports Luxury. Two door coupe RC models open with the RC300 Luxury at $66,174. F Sport is $74,171. RC350 Luxury is $69,516; F Sport is $77,171. The go fast RC F, with a 351kW 5.0-litre V8, is $133,771; the Track Edition is $165,332. The Lexus petrol/electric drivetrain, which uses a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, develops 164kW, drives…

This is the third generation of Mazda’s popualr small car. The Mazda2 hatch is offered with a choice of two 1.5-litre/four-cylinder naturally aspirated, direct-injection petrol engines across four spec levels: Neo, Maxx, Genki and GT. Pricing starts at a super-aggressive $15,570 for the Neo manual. Maxx is $18,330, Genki is $21,390 and GT is $22,400. A six-speed auto adds $2000. Neo, Maxx and GT are also available as a sedan, at the same prices and specification. All models are well equipped. Neo gets low speed (from speeds up to 30km/h) automatic emergency braking, Bluetooth and rear parking sensors, but no reversing camera. From Maxx grade up, auto emergency braking in reverse is standard. Genki and GT grades add blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, giving them the the…

The CX-3 gives Mazda an offering in the hotly contested compact SUV segment. With a choice of two four-cylinder engines — 85kW/270Nm 1.8-litre turbodiesel or 111kW/195Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol — the CX-3 is up against more than 20 contenders including Honda’s HRV, Nissan’s Qashqai and the Renault Captur. Depending on spec, the CX-3 also offers the option of front- or all-wheel drive (the latter being a true rarity at this end of the market), as well as the choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. There are four petrol powered spec levels — base Neo Sport, Maxx Sport, premium sTouring and top-shelf Akari. Prices kick off at $22,710 for the Neo Sport front wheel drive manual; the auto adds $2000 and the all wheel drive option in Maxx…

Mazda’s CX-9 range starts at $46,420 for the 170kW 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol/six-speed automatic/front-wheel-drive Sport. CX9 Touring, with the same drivetrain, is $52,960, GT is $61,120 and Azami is $62,760. All-wheel-drive adds $4000 to each, except top spec Azami LE, at $68,523, where it’s standard. We’re testing the base-model CX-9 Sport, and it’s obvious that Mazda has thought about what parents really want. Safety is the obvious priority and here the Mazda excels, with a head-up display, adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, a camera, low-speed (below 30km/h) obstacle detection/automatic emergency braking that also works in reverse (at driveway speeds of 2–8km/h), pedestrian detection, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, full-length curtain airbags and seat belt indicators for all positions. The spacious, comfortable 60/40-split middle seat slides on either side to…

The Mercedes A35 AMG hatch, priced at $67,200, looks like the full blown flagship A45 AMG (expected in mid 2020, priced from about $80,000) but the only way you can tell it’s not the top-of-the-range rocket is by getting close enough to read the badge. The A35 sedan variant costs $69,800. Although the A35 has a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, it is completely different from the A45 engine of the same capacity. Its power and torque outputs are lower than the previous A45 (280kW/475Nm) and the current A45 (310kW/500Nm) but are still fairly useful: 225kW of power and 400Nm of torque, matched to a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox with all-wheel-drive. That said, Honda’s Civic Type R produces three kilowatts more power, the same torque, and costs $51,990, while BMW’s new M135i…

In our tests on the following pages and in the Showroom, we have used symbols to give you a quick indication of the strengths of each car, and star ratings to indicate in more detail how each car stacks up in its class. Here’s what the symbols and stars mean: Our piggybank indicates a car that we think represents good value for money against the others in its class. It may not necessarily be the cheapest, but taking into account factors like standard equipment, safety, the way it drives, resale values and quality, it shapes up as a good deal. A capital S indicates a car that scores five stars out of five for occupant protection in ANCAP crash tests and has stability control plus six airbags as standard or…

Alfa Romeo’s Giulia is aggressively priced and generously equipped. It deserves to disrupt your Audi A4/BMW 3 Series/Mercedes C Class buying decision. Start money is $60,900 for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol Giulia, with 147kW of power and an eight-speed automatic, in a rear-wheel drive layout. Giulia Super, with more fruit and the same drivetrain, is $65,900. Veloce, at $72,900, looks like the value/performance/equipment sweet spot in the Giulia line-up. It gets a 206kW version of the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine, plus premium performance hardware including adjustable suspension, a limited slip rear differential and exquisite traditional Alfa five-hole 19-inch alloy wheels. Alfa also needs to make a heroic, forceful statement of intent with the Giulia, and that it certainly does with the top-of-the-range Quadrifoglio, priced at $145,900. Up against Audi’s RS5, BMW’s…

Since 2007, few cars have been as seductive standing still as the Audi A5 Coupe. Now, in (some say too timidly) a redesigned and re-engineered second-generation guise, can it captivate on the move, too? Based on the medium-sized A4 range, the swoopy two-door three-box four-seater grand tourer grows ever so slightly, paying palpable cabin space dividends. It’s also lighter yet stronger, promising raised driving dynamics and refinement levels. The least-expensive model is the 2.0 40 TFSI S-Tronic, priced at $70,100. Far from being sparsely equipped, it includes autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, a reverse camera, satellite navigation, adaptive LED headlights, digital radio, electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, three-zone climate control and 19-inch alloys. Also standard is an electronic instrumentation system Audi dubs “Virtual Cockpit”, as well as…

The Audi Q2 is one size smaller than Audi’s already-popular Q3, being engineered on the VW Polo/Audi A1 small car platform. The Audi SUV isn’t cheap, with a starting price of $41,950 for the base Q2 1.4 TFSI. This model has a 110kW turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine, driving the front wheels via a seven-speed double-clutch automatic. It’s a great little engine, with cylinder-on-demand technology that automatically and imperceptibly shuts down two cylinders under light throttle loads to save fuel. Consumption is a claimed 5.2L/100km. The 2.0 TFSi quattro with a 140kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, seven-speed double-clutch auto and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, is priced at $49,400. The Q2’s drivetrains mimic the best-selling versions of the Q3, so performance is similar, but the smaller Audi is a much more persuasive package.…

Audi’s second-generation Q7 is a huge improvement over the first. That model’s whale-like scale made it a daunting vehicle to drive in the city and its high weight meant it had the handling agility of a humpback. The 2019 Q7 is only slightly shorter and a fraction narrower, but Audi’s engineers found ways to shed around 300kg without affecting strength or compromising occupant safety. The Q7 is now among the more pleasant large, premium SUVs to drive. There’s little steering feel, a trait common to the breed, but the Audi copes gracefully with corners, ride comfort is very good and noise levels are low. The Q7 — in this guise at least — doesn’t pretend to be a sportster and this is to its credit. Audi’s engineers offer the 3.0-litre…

BMW’s iconic M3, now in its fifth generation, is available as a four-door sedan only, based on the recently superseded F30 3 Series model for now. The M3 sedan lands in Oz starting from $129,529 for the Pure. The M4 coupe commands a $10,000 premium. The M3 Competition is $146,529 and the CS is $179,529; again, the M4 adds $10,000 in both cases. As the name implies, the Competition is a hard-edged performance upgrade to the Pure, including more stiffly sprung and firmly damped adaptive M suspension. Twenty-inch forged, polished alloys with wider rubber (265/30 front, 285/30 rear) are also fitted, with the Active M Differential and traction control recalibrated to complement the car’s higher grip levels. Firepower from the 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight six is up an inconsequential 14kW to…

No Ferrari road car can claim a longer line of descent than those with a high-revving V12 engine up front that drives the rear wheels. This was the layout of the very first road cars the company made in 1950 and the Ferrari-badged racers produced from 1947. The latest in the Ferrari V12 line is the 812 Superfast, priced at $610,000. This is $80,000 less than the car it replaced, the F12berlinetta. While the two cars share the same basic chassis structure, Ferrari has done more than enough to justify the new name. The headline change is the 812 Superfast’s larger and more powerful V12 engine. Ferrari’s engineers increased the piston stroke of the F12berlinetta’s 6.3L with a new crankshaft and made major improvements to the intake and fuel-injection systems.…

Ford’s Escape range opens with the 110kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol/six-speed manual/front-wheel-drive Ambiente, priced at $28,990. The six-speed auto is $30,490. All-wheel-drive models begin with the 134kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol Ambiente, with a six-speed automatic, at $33,490. Trend specification opens with the 110kW 1.5-litre/six-speed auto/front-wheel-drive variant at $33,490; the all-wheel-drive variant is $36,490. A 178kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/six-speed auto/all-wheel drive ST-Line is $39,990, and a 132kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel/six-speed dual-clutch automated manual is $38,990. Top-of-the-range Titanium is available with the same 2.0-litre drivetrains and is priced at $45,480 and $48,340. Escape brings a European design and drive to a segment dominated by Japanese and Korean brands. It’s certainly something different. The fuel-efficient 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine, in both 110kW and 134kW tunes, produces the same 240Nm of torque. Its performance is entirely adequate and fuel efficiency…

Holden’s Astra hatchback is sourced from General Motors’ Opel factory in Poland, although it was designed and engineered by Opel in Germany. It won the European Car of the Year award in 2016, but has struggled here. Prices start at $21,490 for the 110kW 1.4-litre turbo R six-speed manual. A six-speed auto adds $1000; it’s standard on the R+, priced at $23,740. The 147kW 1.6-litre turbo RS auto is $27,240, RS-V manual is $30,740 and RSV auto is $31,740. The 235,000 Australians who bought a European-made Astra from 1996 to 2009 haven’t been rushing Holden dealers for this one. Some may have less-than-fond memories. Those Astras were notoriously unreliable and servicing was costly. Hopefully reliability will be better this time around. It has a long way to go to match…

ZB Commodore prices kick off at $33,690 for the 2.0-litre turbopetrol LT Liftback and $35,890 for the LT Sportwagon. We tested the mid-spec RS Sportwagon, priced at $39,490. There’s also a 2.0-litre turbodiesel, priced at $36,690 for the LT Liftback and $38,890 for the Sportwagon. Calais Liftback 2.0-litre turbopetrol is $40,990; Calais 2.0-litre turbodiesel is $43,990. Both four-cylinder engines drive the front wheels via a nine-speed automatic. RS, the pseudo-sporty four-cylinder variant, features stylish 18-inch alloys and a body kit, plus supportive, power-adjustable front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power tailgate with hands-free foot swipe operation, to the base LT’s spec: My Link infotainment with a 7-inch screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, semi-automatic perpendicular and parallel parking, remote starting, keyless entry, cruise, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights. You…

Kicking off from $14,990 for the VTi, the GK-series Honda Jazz hatch brings fewer variants, lower prices and — bar one backward step — more for your money. For example, you’ll find a reversing camera, emergency-braking indicator flashes, hill-start assist, LED lighting and 7-inch touchscreen with integrated Bluetooth phone/audio streaming (at last) and ports for 12-volt/USB/HDMI/MP4 connectivity. That’s on top of six airbags, stability control, cruise control, reach- and tilt-adjustable steering, trip computer, electric windows, remote central locking, air-conditioning and 15-inch steel wheels. Note, however, that drums now replace discs for the rear brakes — a retrograde step for usually reputable Honda. Another $2000 will buy you a CVT (continuously variable transmission) in lieu of the standard five-speed manual. Next up is the CVT-only VTi-S from $19,990, adding fog lights,…

Honda’S CR-V, the world’s top-selling SUV, lost its way for a while but is now back in serious contention with the fifth generation since 1997. Priced from $28,290 for the Vi front-drive auto, the latest version has expanded its repertoire with seven-seat availability as part of a range that also includes all-wheel drive but no more diesel option. Beneath the contemporary styling is Honda’s latest ‘Earth Dreams’ architecture — a sophisticated low-centre-of-gravity platform plus a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, multi-link rear suspension and a clever fuel-saving all-wheel-drive system that cuts in and out only when required. This CRV is pleasingly spacious, easy to drive, comfortable, quiet, powerful, economical and agile. So it shares many of the attributes of its better competitors. Let’s take the packaging. This is a true five-seater…

You don’t mess around with a winning formula, so Hyundai’s third-generation i30 offers more of the same: a strong value-for-money proposition, excellent quality and reliability backed up by a generous warranty. Its styling has become more conservative, inside and out, to more closely resemble its Kia stablemate’s Euro hatch aesthetic. Prices open at $19,990 for the 120kW 2.0-litre/six-speed manual Go. That’s excluding on-road costs, but Hyundai is renowned for its aggressive drive-away deals, so go to its website and check out the current offers, which will save you about $2500. A six-speed auto adds $2300. Active manual is $21,090; the auto is $23,390. Elite auto is $27,790 and Premium is $32,790. Go and Active are also available with a 100kW 1.6-litre turbodiesel, at $24,990 and $26,090 respectively, matched with a…

Hyundai’s Venue, a small SUV, starts at $19,990 (plus on road costs) for the six-speed manual Go; a six-speed automatic adds $2000. Powered by a 90kW 1.6-litre petrol four, driving the front wheels, Go’s no frills standard equipment list includes 15-inch steel wheels, cloth upholstery, a camera, eight-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, voice control (only via either of these apps), fast, reliable Bluetooth connectivity, USB and 12 volt sockets (one each) and cruise control. Hyundai’s Auto Link app connects you to the car via your smartphone. Functions include monitoring how efficiently and smoothly you drive, keeping a record of your trips, battery condition, tyre pressures, a log book for business use, locating the vehicle, accident/breakdown assistance contacts and sharing your location and trips with friends and family via…

Hyundai’s Tucson mid-size SUV range opens with the 121kW/203Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct-injection petrol/six-speed manual front-wheel-drive Active, at $29,290. Active X is $32,290. A six-speed auto adds $2500. Front-wheel drive Elite automatic is $37,850. All-wheel-drive petrol variants kick off with the 130kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dual-clutch-automated manual Elite at $40,850. In top-of-the-range Highlander specification, it’s $46,500. The 135kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic all-wheel-drive Active is $37,090. Active X is $40,090, Elite is $43,150 and Highlander is $48,800. Hyundai is pitching Tucson ActiveX 2.0-litre petrol as the value-for-money variant, with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-faced seats, dynamic parking guidelines on the rear camera and a big touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto compatibility are standard across the range. Hyundai’s five years/unlimited-kilometres warranty is another value-add on ActiveX. Automatic emergency braking from speeds…

It was only five years ago that Jaguar decided it needed a competitor in the premium compact SUV segment, where models including the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque were boosting their brands’ sales. Getting the E-Pace to market as quickly as possible was a priority for the latecomer, according to vehicle line director, Alan Volkaerts. For this reason, it uses technology already developed for other models in the Jaguar Land Rover portfolio. D8 won’t mean anything to potential customers, but inside JLR it’s the codename for the set of building blocks used to make both the Range Rover Evoque and newer Land Rover Discovery Sport. The E-Pace is built on the same foundations. Jaguar was able to create a version of D8 that’s a little larger than…

Kia’s third-generation Carnival people mover starts at $42,490 for the 206kW 3.3-litre V6 petrol/eight-speed automatic S model. Si grade is $47,990, SLi is $52,490 and Platinum is $60,290. The 147kW 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/six-speed automatic is available in the same model grades as above but at a $2500 premium. Carnival is a big, heavy wagon with a long wheelbase and ostensibly eight seats, so the relatively high power and torque outputs of both engines are well suited to shifting a full load of people and gear with ease. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel, with 440Nm of torque from just 1750rpm, is one of the best around at any price and perfect for this application. It’s very smooth and quiet for a diesel too, and works well with the eight-speed auto. You can fit…

Now in its fourth iteration since 2004, the Japanese-built Mazda 3 hatch and sedan series is nowadays a wholly more upmarket proposition, trespassing on the Volkswagen Golf’s turf. Pricing starts from $24,990 for the 114kW 2.0-litre Pure six-speed manual. A six-speed automatic adds $1000. Safety is a highlight, with blind-spot monitoring, forward obstruction warning, lane departure alert, lane-keep assist, active cruise control with full stop/go, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition and driver attention warning. These come on top of autonomous emergency braking, tyre pressure monitoring and seven airbags. Add sophisticated infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, digital radio and navigation, plus digital instrumentation, a head-up display and rain-sensing wipers to the usual spec of rear sensors, reverse camera and 16-inch alloys, and it’s clear that the base model is…

Evolution is the name of the game for Australia’s most popular SUV. Starting from $30,880, the front-wheel drive Mazda CX-5 Maxx via with Subaru’s Forester for safety honours in this class, with autonomous emergency braking front and rear as standard, plus adaptive cruise, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, LED headlights with automatic high beam, reversing camera and rear-parking sensors. Some luxury SUVs at twice the price don’t have this much safety technology. Maxx Sport from $36,090 is also front-wheel drive. Touring specification, from $40,780, offers an all-wheel drivetrain, as does GT, from $45,890, which puts you into luxury equipment territory with a powered tailgate, sunroof, 19-inch alloys, adaptive front headlights (that “see” through corners), heated and powered front seats with driver’s-side memory, leather, a Bose audio upgrade…