Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue #55 - June 2020 i Australian New Car Buyer

As I write, Australia is basically in lockdown, like many other countries, as the world battles the Covid 19 pandemic. It’s causing carnage across the economy, not least in the car business where more than two years of slowing sales, plus the demise of Holden, had left many dealers in a pretty weak position even before Covid 19 came along. But life goes on and if you’re in the market for a new car, your timing is perfect. Dealer pain equals your gain. Given that many people can’t, or won’t, go to a dealership, many dealers are now willing to bring a car to your place for a test drive. When Covid19 is under control and the economy begins to recover, there will probably be fewer dealers in business, and…

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 faux 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/600Nm 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 airconditioning 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’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. The standard M2 tested here is priced at $104,900. The trackfocussed M2 CS, due shortly, is priced at $139,900. 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…

BMW’s seventh-generation 5 Series range opens with the $90,900 520i, with a 135kW, 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, matched with an eight-speed automatic. 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 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. The 390kW/750Nm, 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 M550i XDrive Pure is $134,900, or $149,900 without the Pure tag but with more gear. This model gets an all-wheel drivetrain. The 460kW 4.4-litre V8 M5 Competition, also with all-wheel drive, costs $234.900. Every model in the 5…

Ford’s first major overhaul of its compact EcoSport brings substantial improvement, with more suitable powertrain choices, a more contemporary interior and higher standard equipment levels. So low pricing is no longer its sole drawcard. The front-wheel-drive-only range kicks off from a reasonable $22,790 for the Ambiente, which now includes a conventional six-speed torque-converter auto (the problematic Powershift dualclutch auto and all manuals have been ditched), joining a reverse camera, digital radio and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity — items many base rivals lack. Under the cheapest EcoSport’s bonnet is an all-new 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine — a thrummy but willing worker that punches well above its size considering no turbocharger is attached. It produces a healthy 90kW of power and 150Nm of torque, so around town acceleration is ample, with a…

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…

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 latestgeneration 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 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 frontdrive 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 fuelsaving 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-formoney 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 frontwheel-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/sevenspeed 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/unlimitedkilometres 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 $42,990 for the 206kW 3.3-litre V6 petrol/eight-speed automatic S model. Si grade is $48,490, SLi is $52,990 and Platinum is $60,790. The 147kW 2.2-litre fourcylinder 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…

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 232kW 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 $66,324. F Sport is $74,321. RC350 Luxury is $69,666; F Sport is $77,321. The go fast RC F, with a 351kW 5.0-litre V8, is $133,921; the Track Edition is $165,482. 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 popular small car. The Mazda2 hatch is offered with a 1.5-litre/four-cylinder naturally aspirated, direct-injection petrol engine across three spec levels: Pure, Evolve and GT. Pricing starts at $20,990 for the Pure manual. A six-speed auto adds $2000 and is standard on other models. Evolve is $24,490 and GT is $25,990. Pure and GT are also available as a sedan, at the same prices and specification. All models are well equipped. Pure gets low speed (from speeds up to 30km/h) automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. From Evolve grade up, auto emergency braking in reverse is standard, while the GT adds four camaras that provide a 360 degree bird’s eye view of…

The CX-3 gives Mazda an offering in the hotly contested compact SUV segment. Powered by a 110kW/195Nm 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, 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; Maxx Sport manual is $24,650, STouring is $28,840 and Akari is $33,950. The six-speed automatic adds $2000 and the all wheel…

Mazda’s CX-8 SUV slots between the mid-size CX-5 five-seater and family-sized CX-9 seven-seater. There are four model grades: base Sport front-wheel drive from $30,910, Touring from $46,590, GT from $57,900 and the flagship Asaki from $61,440. Standard fare includes low speed 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. The second-row…

McLaren’s 720S coupe range opens at $499,000. Luxury specification is $525,700, 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…

The Mercedes A35 AMG hatch, priced at $69,300, looks like the full blown flagship A45 AMG, priced at $93,600, 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 $72,500. 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 produces the same power, 50Nm…

Mercedes-Benz fourth generation GLE range opens with the 300d at $99,900. It’s powered by a 2.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder, with a healthy 180kW of power and 500Nm of torque. The GLE 450 at $111,341 is powered by a 3.0-litre turbopetrol in-line six-cylinder paired to a partial hybrid system (270kW/500Nm), and the GLE 400d at $118,142 is powered by a 243kW/700Nm 3.0-litre turbo diesel in-line six-cylinder. Coupes includes the 190kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 GLE350d ($126,329), the 287kW/520Nm 3.0-litre twin turbopetrol V6 GLE45 AMG ($145,829) and the 430kW/760Nm 5.5-litre twin-turbopetrol V8 GLE63 AMG S, at $203,828 Standard fare includes dual zone air-conditioning with vents to the second-row seats, sensor key with push-button start, two 12.3-inch digital display screens for instruments and infotainment that cover more than half the width of the dash,…

The base ASX 110kW 2.0-litre petrol/five-speed manual front-wheel-drive ES is $23,990. With a continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission it’s $25,990, while in LS specification, with CVT as standard, it’s $28,690. A 123kW 2.4-litre petrol engine powers the $30,740 GSR and the top spec Exceed, at $33,240. Mitsubishi dropped all-wheel drive and the 2.2-litre turbodiesel variants in 2019, ahead of an all-new model in 2021 or 2022. We haven’t driven the 2.0-litre petrol engine in the ASX -- we tested the 2.2-litre turbodiesel in 2017 -- but we have in Peugeot’s 3008, ASX’s twin under the skin, where it was gutless, noisy, thirsty and as slow as a week of Tuesdays. Given that it’s more like a car than an SUV in its stance, weight and suspension layout, you would expect…

Keen to get your new set of wheels out on the road but can’t decide where you want to go? Or the best time to do it? Planning a post-Covid 19 celebratory road trip is now much easier thanks to this new guide to the best driving holidays in Australia. Ultimate Road Trips: Australia, by Lee Atkinson, highlights 40 of the best driving holidays around the country, from coastal routes and mountain drives to epic outback adventures and weekend jaunts around the country’s best food and wine regions. Bucket list trips include the Great Ocean Road, Red Centre, Gibb River Road and Across the Nullarbor, but there also plenty of lesser known routes that will help you explore hidden gems like the goldfields of Victoria, Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia…

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 (and four door Sportback) fourseater 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 $70,900. Far from being sparsely equipped, it includes autonomous emergency braking, blindspot 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”,…

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 fourcylinder 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 doubleclutch 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 whalelike scale made it a daunting vehicle to drive in the city and its high weight meant it had the handling agility of a humpback. 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 (thanks to adjustable air suspension) and noise, vibration and harshness levels are very low. The Q7 doesn’t pretend to be a sportster and this is to its credit. Audi’s engineers offer the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel 45TDi with 170kW/500Nm, priced at $101,900, or the…

BMW 3 Series prices start at $65,900 for the 135kW/300Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol 320i, with a standard eight-speed automatic. It’s available in M Sport or Luxury Line specification The 330i sedan is $71,900. The 330i Touring is $75,900. Both are also available in M Sport or Luxury Line trim. 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 $78,900. The M340i xDrive, with BMW’s signature 3.0-litre turbo straight six tuned for 285kW/500Nm, plus all-wheel drive, is $104,900. The 330i M Sport shapes up as a no-options required performance drive straight out of the box. Standard are adaptive M suspension with adjustable…

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 rearwheel 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, Sydneyborn 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 benchmark against which all other SUVs have since been judged. This fourth generation opens with the 170kW/450Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/eightspeed automatic/all-wheel drive xDrive 25d, priced at $99,900. 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 40i, with a 250kW/450Nm turbopetrol six, is $120,900, the xDrive 45e hybrid is $129,900 and the M50i, with a 390kW/750Nm twin turbopetrol 4.4-litre V8 is $151,900, or $136,900 in Pure specification, with the same drivetain but less bling. The hotrod X5 M, with the V8 chipped for 460kW, is $209,900. This model expanded in all directions, notably in width and wheelbase. It’s still a five seater, with a third row option. Serious effort…

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 2020 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, priced from $23,490. Trend, from $25,990, ST-Line, from $29,490, ST-Line wagon from $31,490 and the flagship Titanium from $34,990 all run a 134kW 1.5-litre turbo triple/eight-speed auto drivetrain, as does Focus Active, a faux SUV priced at $30,490. 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…

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 $24,790, sits one step above the base 1.8-litre VTi model, priced at $22,590, and below three 1.5-litre turbo variants: the $28,190 VTi-L, the sportsflavoured $31,990 RS and the $33,890 VTi-LX. Civic hatch is available with the same drivetrains at $200 more for VTi, VTi-L, VTi-S and VTi-LX and $700 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 legroom and reasonable headroom despite…

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 wheelsat-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…

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 the hatch, and comparable standard equipment. The introduction of the Fastback brought a revised suspension package, now also fitted to the hatch. A slightly softer front end sharpens initial turn-in, improves ride…

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. 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 also has a full-size alloy spare; Kona gets a steel space saver. Shouldn’t that be the other way around? Hyundai’s servicing is relatively cheap, its reliability record is outstanding and you get a five-year warranty. Kona Active’s standard equipment…

The Hyundai Santa Fe features seven seats in all models. The lineup opens with the 206kW 3.5-litre V6 petrol/eightspeed automatic/front-wheel-drive Active, at $43,000. Elite is $51,000 and Highlander is $57,500. 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. 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 selected, and auto stop/start is fitted. The eight-speed automatic is a…

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 allwheel 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 $21,490. A six-speed auto adds $2800. Sport is $23,490/$26,260 and Sport+, with the auto as standard, is $29,340. The 150kW/256Nm 1.6-litre turbo/seven-speed dual clutch automatic GT i $33,490. 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 compact Seltos SUV opens at $24,990 for the 110kW, naturally-aspirated 2.0 litre/continuously variable automatic/front-wheel drive Seltos S. Seltos Sport is $27,990 and Sport+ is $31,490. All-wheel drive models start at $34,990 drive away for the 130kW 1.6-litre turbopetrol/seven-speed dual clutch transmission Seltos Sport+, which we’re testing here. Top spec Seltos GT-Line, with the same drivetrain, is $40,400. A huge 10.25 inch touchscreen sits atop the dash. There’s no stand alone voice control, so unless you pair your phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you have to do almost everything by touch – not good, because too much eyes off the road time is involved. Navigation with live traffic information, 10 years of map updates and digital radio are also included. The driver’s seat lacks upper body support and…

The base Discovery Sport P200 S, tested here, with a 147kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol/nine-speed automatic/all-wheel drivetrain costs $60,500. That’s a notable value for money advantage over its Audi Q5/BMW X3/Mercedes GLC rivals in several key areas. It’s $5400-$6400 cheaper, for a start. As a bonus, you also get higher levels of capability and convenience. Seven seats are standard; rivals have five. Discovery also has credible, as opposed to pretend, off road chops. Sure, it lacks the low range transfer case of the big Landies, but it does have all-wheel drive (as does the Audi; the BMW and Mercedes are rear-wheel drive), with Terrain Response 2 offroad drivetrain software that maximises traction on tricky surfaces, steep climbs and descents. Ground clearance (212mm) and maximum fording depth (600mm) are best in class. Shame…

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 $25,590 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…

Mazda’s CX30 shares architecture, front wheel drivetrains and dash layouts with the 3 sedan and hatch, so you could accurately describe it as a Mazda3 wagon. Of course that term, which evokes old fashioned two box family freighters from extinct brands such as Holden, would be the kiss of death for a new model today, so the CX30 is, and always will be, referred to as an SUV. Prices start at $29,990 for the G20 Pure, with a 114kW 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol four/six-speed automatic. Evolve is $31,490, Touring is $34,990 and Astina, tested here, is $38,990. G25 variants, with a 139kW 2.5-litre engine, start at $36,490 for the Touring; the Astina is $41,490. All-wheel drive adds $2000 to both G25 models. CX30, like several rivals, well illustrates that fact that…

Mazda’s CX-9 range starts at $45,920 for the 170kW 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol/six-speed automatic/front-wheel-drive Sport. CX9 Touring, with the same drivetrain, is $53,310, GT is $61,720 and Azami is $64,893. All-wheel-drive adds $4000 to each, except top spec Azami, priced at $69,303. 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 adjust legroom or…

The Mercedes GLA SUV range starts at $44,700 for the 90kW 1.6-litre turbopetrol front-wheel-drive GLA180. The 100kW 2.1-litre turbodiesel front-wheeldrive GLA220d is $52,100. Opt for the sportier performance and all-wheel-drive grip of the 155kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol GLA250 and the price rises to $61,800. The 280kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol all-wheel-drive GLA45 AMG hotrod costs $89,842. The performance spread ranges from sedate to sensational. The diesel-powered GLA220 reaches triple figures in a claimed 7.7 seconds, so it’s quicker than BMW’s X1 18d and Audi’s Q3 2.0 TDI and, officially at least, more frugal too. The GLA250 clips the 0–100 ticket in 7.1 seconds. It is an impressive number put into perspective by responsive idle to redline real-world performance. The GLA45 AMG hits 100km/h just 4.8 seconds after take-off — the same claimed time…

The W213 Mercedes E-Class may well be the most sophisticated, complicated piece of rolling digital technology ever. Great. But as a car, is it any good? We’re in the base-model 145kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol E200, priced at $95,900. The E220d, with a 143kW 2.1-litre turbodiesel, is $99,400; the E300, with a 190kW 2.0 turbopetrol, is $114,300; the E350d, with a 210kW 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, is $141,700 and the E450 4Matic, with a 270kW 3.0-litre twin-turbopetrol V6, is $149,700. The faux SUV all-wheel drive E220d All-Terrain is $115,500. The E300e plug-in hybrid, which can run for up to 52km on battery power, is $119,600, while the 320kW 3.0-litre twin turbo, all-wheel drive AMG E53 4Matic is $173,800. The 420kW 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 AMG E 63 4Matic is $218,200 and the 450kW…

With its third generation GLS, Mercedes has turned luxury up a notch – and the vehicle has grown in every dimension to behemoth proportions. It now has one of the largest cabins and cargo holds in the class. Prices start at $144,600 for the 270kW/500Nm 3.0-litre straight six turbopetrol GLS 450. The 243kW/700Nm 3.0-litre straight six turbodiesel GLS 400d, tested here, is $151,300. The first thing you notice when you open the door is the massive widescreen display that stretches across more than half the dash. Two 12.3-inch high-resolution screens side-by-side make it feel like you’re in a cockpit not a car. The model we tested was equipped with a full panorama sunroof, LED mood lighting (with a choice 64 colours) in the doors, dash and centre console, and five-zone…

The Eclipse Cross slots into Mitsubishi’s SUV portfolio between the compact ASX and midsize Outlander. Powered by a 1.5-litre four cylinder turbopetrol/continuously variable transmission (CVT), the range opens with the front-wheel drive ES at $29,990. LS is $31,990, or $34,790 with all-wheel drive. We’re testing the mid-spec Exceed, at $36,990; it’s also available with all-wheel drive, at $39,490. Exceed specification covers most of what a family needs and wants in a wagon; it also adds bonus luxe, such as a double-sized sunroof, heated, leather-faced, power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone air. Fake carbon and highg-loss black plastic, framed by sweeping silver trim, adorn a twin cockpit-style dash with conventional instruments. Eclipse is made in Japan, so fit and finish are excellent. Infotainment includes a seven-inch touchscreen, plus a touchpad on the…

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…

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 petrolproducing 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…

The base model Audi A1 30 TFSi, priced at $32,350, is a redecorated Volkswagen Polo. Audi is a subsidiary brand of VW. Nearly all of the hardware, including the body, running gear and 85kW 1.0-litre three cylinder turbopetrol/seven speed dual clutch drivetrain, is the same; the sheetmetal and interior design are different. Oh, and the price. The Polo 85TSi Comfortline costs $23,090 – that’s $9260, or nearly 30 percent less, than the Audi. We’re testing the mid-spec 35 TFSi, with a 110kW 1.5-litre turbopetrol four/seven-speed dual clutch drivetrain, a combination not available in the Polo. It costs $35,290. The 40 TFSi, with a 147kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol four, is $46,450. Pennies have obviously been pinched in the A1, notably in the absence of Audi’s signature quality materials and trim, replaced by…

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…

Audi’s five seater Q8 is based on the seven-seater Q7, but with a sleeker, sharper profile, a coupe roofline, a few dimensional adjustments and whopper 21 inch alloy wheels to give it a sportier stance. The Q8 55TFSi quattro, priced at $129,900, runs a 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine with 250kW of power and 500Nm of torque, matched with an eight-speed automatic and all wheel drive. It’s a mild hybrid, with 48-volt electrics, a lithium ion battery and a starter motor that can also give the engine a high voltage boost of up to 6kW of power and 60Nm of torque, for five seconds, when you plant the accelerator. The engine is also switched off and decoupled from the transmission in “coasting” mode, on a light throttle between 55-160km/h, yielding fuel…

BMW’s 2011-2019 One Series was the last rear wheel drive hatchback on the market. The 2020 118i, tested here, uses the same body architecture and front wheel drivetrain as the five door Mini (a brand owned by BMW) and the X1/X2 small SUVs. It’s priced at $42,990. That’s big money for a 1.5-litre hatchback with a mere 103kW of power. A Toyota Corolla, with 125kW up front, can be had for around $25,000. The Mini Cooper five door – same car, different box, remember – costs around $34,000. The M135i xDrive, at $63,990, runs a 225kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol, matched with an allwheel drivetrain. Climb into the 118i and your money appears well spent. There’s no whiff of poverty pack here. An elegant, minimalist dash, digital dials, quality, soft touch materials,…

BMW’s M4 costs $156,529 for the Competition coupe, with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual clutch M-DCT transmission. The Competition convertible, also with either transmission, is $167,829. The four door F80 M3 is no longer available. As the name implies, the Competition is a hard-edged performance upgrade to the now discontinued M4 Pure. These include more stiffly sprung and firmly damped adaptive M suspension, twentyinch 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 331kW, while peak torque is 550Nm. A free-breathing exhaust adds “emotional resonance to the driving experience.” Cough. High-gloss black Shadowline trim adorns the body. Inside is a pair…

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, released in 2017. It’s priced at $610,000 for the Superfast coupe. This is $80,000 less than the car it replaced, the F12berlinetta. The 812 GTS cabriolet is $675,888. The headline change was the 812’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. In its new 6.5L capacity, the V12 wails to…

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 5.0-litre V8 models, a switch to Michelin Pilot Sport rubber from the original Pirelli P Zeros also aids cushioning over bumps. Ford fitted a louder bi-modal exhaust, which, at the press of a button, transforms the Mustang from hush quiet to 1970s musclecar loud. The V8 also gained 33kW and now produces 339kW. In early 2020, the 2.3-litre four gained a new twin scroll turbocharger and…

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, emergencybraking indicator flashes, hill-start assist, LED lighting and 7-inch touchscreen infotainment. 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, climate control, navigation, better audio, alarm, fancier cloth, electric folding mirrors,…

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 threemodel line-up that includes a pure electric variant, with a claimed range of up to 311km, and a Toyota Prius-style petrol/electric hybrid, where the electric motor’s main function is to improve the efficiency of the petrol engine. 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 $41,990 in Elite specification, or $46,490 for…

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 Sportage SUV, which shares architecture with Hyundai’s Tucson and, size-wise, bridges the gap between compact and medium wagons, starts at $28,190 for the S front-wheel drive six-speed manual. 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. S six-speed auto is $30,190. The base drivetrain is also offered in SX at $30,290 ($32,290 auto) and the auto SX+ priced at $37,490. A 2.0-litre turbodiesel (with 136kW and 400Nm) with ondemand 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.…

Like many modern SUVs, the Lexus NX targets urban buyers. Entry models are frontwheel drive rather than allwheel 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 Range Rover Evoque. Pricing starts towards…

MAZDA’S fourth-generation MX-5 kicks off at $35,890 for the base model 1.5-litre/six-speed manual Roadster. A six-speed auto adds $2000. The 2.0-litre GT manual is $43,820; the auto is $45,820. 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 $41,200, or $47,900 in GT trim, again with the auto adding $2000. You lower yourself gently into the MX5, and if you’re long of leg there’s…

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…

Evolution is the name of the game for Australia’s most popular SUV. Starting from $30,980, the front-wheel drive Mazda CX-5 Maxx vies 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. Maxx Sport from $36,290 is also front-wheel drive. Touring specification, from $40,980, offers an all-wheel drivetrain, as does GT, from $46,090, 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 and a head-up display. Finally, the flagship Akera, from $48,330, adds LED cabin…

The Mercedes W205 C Class range opens with the $65,800 C200 sedan, with a 150kW/300Nm, 2.0-litre turbopetrol/nine-speed automatic. The 143kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel C220d is $67,300, the 190kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbopetrol C300 is $74,200 and the C300e hybrid is $82,300. In AMG territory, the 287kW/520Nm 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 C43 is $112,300 and the big banger C63S, with a 375kW/700Nm 4.0-litre twin turbo V8, is $166,200. Each drivetrain is also available in the Estate wagon, starting at $68,500 for the C200 and topping out at $168,900 for the C63S. Coupes start at $70,600 for the C200 and top out at $171,400 for the C63S. Cabriolets start at $92,100 for the C200 and top out at $190,100 for the C63S. In late 2019 Mercedes revised the C Class’s drivetrain lineup. It dropped the…

The shape of things to come from Mercedes-Benz has a familiar form. The German car maker’s first pure EV, the EQC 400 is, surprise, surprise, a family sized SUV, priced at $137,900. While SUVs are hugely popular, there are other reasons car makers favour an SUV-like shape for upmarket EVs. Their tall bodies accommodate a massive slab of underfloor batteries, while leaving space for a roomy passenger compartment above, and without looking weird. The EQC has a lithium-ion battery pack weighing 650kg. Protected by a strong impact-absorbing perimeter, it’s almost as wide as the vehicle and takes up most of the underfloor space between the front and rear axles. Each axle is driven by a 150kW electric motor via a fixed-ratio gear, making the EQC all-wheel-drive. All of the EQC’s…

It has an MG badge, so even though it’s a mid-sized SUV, it should be on the sporty side, right? Guess again. Now owned by Chinese-State giant SAIC Motor, the MG badge is just that: a badge. There’s no pukka Brit sports car DNA in the HS - not a shred - but MG’s current owners admit as much and believe the HS (which replaces the GS) is worth your attention on its gear-for-the-money equation rather than its driving experience. It’s a refreshing admission, actually. And when it comes to that value story, well, the MG certainly claws back some ground and should score points with its target audience of double-income couples, young families and bargain hunters. The range kicks off with the Vibe at $29,990, while the flagship model…

Mini’s SUV range, powered by BMW drivetrains, opens with the 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol/six-speed automatic/front-wheel-drive Countryman, priced at $42,200. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/front-wheel-drive Cooper D is $46,200, the 2.0-litre turbopetrol/eight-speed auto Cooper S is $49,200, and the 2.0-litre turbodiesel/eight-speed automatic/all-wheel-drive Cooper SD is $54,200. The all-wheel drive John Cooper Works model, the performance variant with a 225kW 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine, costs $65,900 with an eight-speed automatic. A plug-in hybrid Cooper S E model, priced at $57,200, claims an electric-only range of up to 40km or so, but on test could only manage about half of that. Self-appointed experts gave the original Countryman a hostile reception when it was launched in 2010. Too big to wear a Mini badge, they huffed. Too long. Too many doors. Customers couldn’t have cared less. The…